Fairy x Adventure

by Magnafeana

In a new era after the Alvarez War, Lucy, Natsu, and the rest of Fairy Tail not only face new challenges but watch as their kids go on new journeys, learn new powers, and battle new enemies and old! Join Luna, Nashi, and the upcoming generation of Mages on Fairy Tail and more on their never-ending adventure!

13. Adventure 013

Disclaimer: I do not own Hiro Mashima's "Fairy Tail", but all original plots and characters are mine.

---

In a land far, far away lies the kingdom of Fiore, a small, peaceful nation of 17 million, and a place filled with Magic found in every home, bought and sold in every marketplace. For most, Magic is merely a tool, a mundane part of everyday life. For some, however, Magic is an art, and they've devoted their lives to its practice. These are the wizards. Banded together into magical guilds, they ply their skills in search of fame and fortune. Many such guilds dot the landscape of Fiore. But there is a certain guild in a certain town that soars high above the rest, one from which countless legends have been born. A guild that will no doubt continue to create legends well into the future. Its name...is Fairy Tail.

---

Last time, on Fairy Adventure, looks like Galileo lost. But with his ticket, I guess he did come out a winner. We got to meet Elvin Strauss, the Stone Gentleman of Fairy Tail, and he versed out cold-hearted Dark Empress Mary Jane while the Garden Fairy Ellie Strauss took on Nashi in a battle between fairy and angel. Looks like things are just getting started with those two battles. Meanwhile, Luna notices Gajeel isn't out there fighting with everyone else. Huh. The rule says no one over eighty can participate, so why not Gajeel. Come to think of it, where has he been these past years? Well, at least Luna and Jay got to spend some time together, even if they didn't kiss. Wait, what? Back to Mary Jane and Elvin, both of them seem to be pulling out some hat tricks of their own. Who knew Elvin was a little beast just like his dad? But, it looks like Mary Jane has taken this fight a little too seriously and it's up to Elvin to stop her. At the Magnolia Hospital, we got to meet Eloise Strauss, the fairest princess of them all! She's been keeping Orochi's big sister Mara company as the two of them watch Nashi and Ellie fight it out. But, what's up with Mara and Orochi? And what's with Orochi's gloves? Aw man, looks like Ellie lost, but never fear! Elvin is still going strong! Well, as strong as he can be with Mary Jane's viper. Still, Elvin's got some tricks still left up his sleeve and uses his Song of the Nightingale to give Mary Jane a taste of her own medicine. It worked, but at what price? Elvin is hurt and Mary Jane is back to normal, but…what happened with her eyes? And Elvin, what's with the tattoos?

"I know, Mary Jane. Trust me. I know."

I guess things just got a little more interesting. Hey, where exactly did Julia run off to?

---

Sneakers walked on the pavement, unbothered and quiet. There was no known destination or hurry. Just a quiet stroll through the streets. Arms were crossed under a chest and a skirt swayed with each movement. Eyes were closed as though they cared not, but their ears and nose were sensing around them carefully.

They stopped when they heard the gentle thud of boots and clanking of armor.

They stopped when their nose caught a scent reeking of strawberries and power.

"So, you're the one I face next," Olivia breathed.

The clanking and thuds stopped.

Olivia opened her eyes.

Erza stood, looking at her niece appraisingly. "Olivia," she greeted courteously. "So, we meet here."

"Aunt Erza," Olivia greeted back. "Yes, we do. I was hoping I would run into you."

Erza did not seem surprised at the least. "And I you. Your progress is remarkable. I can feel it. But I'm interested to see what you do with that progress."

"Well, I hope I don't let you down," Olivia said.

"As long as you give it your all, I'm sure you won't," Erza promised.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Maji desu ka SUKA!

•

Donna toki demo POJITIBU de

meccha KIRAKIRA hanasakasou

•

Kitto itsuka wa FAMIRII wo

Shoukai sasete ne

Urusakutte mo yurushite

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Cool hazel matched cool kobicha.

A frown matched a frown.

Neither woman lost her composure. It was a simple test of the will and neither would lose.

Wind swept through short locks of scarlet and messy locks of dark blue. It picked up, swirling around them. Whistling breezes did not bother them. Nothing could make them turn away from their stares on each other.

Suddenly, Magic fizzled in the air.

Magenta crackled in the air, then platinum, then magenta again. Pops of Magic appeared in the air as though battling each other at such a rapid pace, neither could see it.

The whistling turned into soulful howls.

And then, the ground beneath both of them slightly broke, becoming dented.

It was then that Magic Circles were activated. Erza's magenta Magic Circle slowly spun beneath her and illuminated her features. Olivia's platinum Magic Circle spun as well, making her hazel eyes shimmer.

Erza spoke first. "Don't make me regret giving you the 'Iron Maiden' title," she forewarned.

"Don't worry," Olivia spoke. "I won't."

Erza nodded and held out a hand. "Requip!" she chanted. Gold and magenta fizzled around her as blue energy swirled around her body. "Heaven's Wheel Armor!"

Olivia turned her body and put her right foot behind her. She curled her hands into fists set them into fighting position. "Iron Enhance!" she chanted. An outline of her Magic surrounded her body and her eyes glowed into the shining gray color as her Magic Circle left.

Erza was quick to change in her armor and was left stunningly beautiful with her wings flapping once before Erza took into the air. She raised a hand and commanded, "Blumenblatt!" Sword after sword appeared in their air, all with their blades sharpened nicely and ready to abide their mistress' wishes. They went in front of Erza as though to protect her. She grabbed one sword in each hand and gave Olivia a challenging look. "Charge!" she commanded her swords as she rushed before them.

Olivia narrowed her eyes as Erza sped towards her with her swords. She knew this attack. "Iron King's Shield!" she chanted. She put her arms in a X-formation in front of her as her Iron Magic created a large, glistening dome-shield.

Erza continued her charge and slashed at the shield before allowing her requipped swords to do the same. She flew high in the sky to see the damage. She, however, was not shocked when she saw Olivia's shield kept intact from the attack.

Olivia dismissed her shield and looked up at Erza coolly. "Did you really think that would get passed my shield?" she asked.

"No," Erza said honestly. "I trust in your skills."

Olivia nodded. "Good. Let me show you what I have learned." Her Magic Circle appeared beneath her once more. "Let my iron turn me into the Iron Beast!" she chanted.

Erza took the time to cast another attack. Swords requipped around her with Erza as their orchestrator. "Dance, my swords!" she commanded and the swords circled around her elegantly. Soon, they sped up, rotating faster and faster and faster until the swords merged into a circle of light. Erza lifted her two swords. "Now…show Olivia your dance!" she slashed her swords down and the circle of swords launched itself at Olivia.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Fairy Adventure 013

Iron Maiden VS Iron Maiden

バトルレディ！アイアン・メイデンアイアンビーストです

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Olivia's eyes flashed as she gathered Magic for her spell and she saw the swords coming at a break-neck pace. She let out a growl and flung a hand out. A translucent shield of her Magic appeared, bubbling her in time as the circle of swords surrounded her and tried to attack her.

Platinum Magic covered Olivia's body as her spell took effect. Great wings grew from Olivia's back, both of them smooth. A length tail appeared as well, flicking with dangerous spikes at its tip. The Magic broke off from Olivia's body in cracks before all of it left. In the place of her clothes was an armored strapless bikini top and long loincloth made of black material. Thigh-high armored boots were on her feet and trailed up her leg with inscriptions only Levy could read. She bore over-sized pauldrons that went a little past her shoulders. Her gauntlets were intimidating with her fists readily made. An iron bar wrapped around her head, covering her eyes alone. But that did not mean she was blind.

Olivia let out a roar that sounded deep and animalistic. The dome of Magic she created began to expand, forcing the circle of swords to go with it. The dome expanded and expanded until it broke and Erza's sword spell broke along with it. Olivia instantly took up to the air, matching Erza's level.

Erza looked at Olivia's form, impressed. "So, this is what you've been training to become," she mused.

Olivia nodded. "My time spent training in those mountains with Chief Cheng has been used wisely."

Erza agreed. "Freed," she called. "Can you please adjust this ruin to an air battle?"

Ruins crawled onto the roof of a nearby building and a screen was forged. Freed came onto the screen with one eye glowing darkly. "Are you sure, Master?" he wanted to know.

Erza nodded, never letting Olivia out of her sight. "Positive."

Freed nodded. "Adjusting ruins now," he reported. The violet ruins crawled on land, shifting and adjusting and locking into place. Once they finished their job, they sunk back into the earth. "The area around Kardia Cathedral is still off-limits, but the ruins will allow you to move freely in the air around Magnolia. Once the battle is over, you must return here."

"Understood," Erza promised. "Thank you."

"Good luck to both of you." And Freed and his screen disappeared.

"Well now…" Erza readied her swords. "I'm interested to see what the Iron Beast can do against my blades."

Olivia readied herself and a blade came out of each gauntlet, sharp and shining in the light of the sun. She smirked. "Then, let's put it to the test," she decided.

Kobicha and iron stared at each other.

Then, both women disappeared.

To onlookers, it looked like the two Fairy Tail women had merely disappeared.

But they had far from done that.

There was a battle and a fast one at that. Only the sounds of blade clashing with blade could be heard with many grunts and hisses. Magic crackled around them and burst as the two aimed strikes at each other. The ground dented as the force of Magic was too great for the earth to ignore. This was not just a battle to see who would move on and find their next challenger. This was a test—a test for the Iron Maiden to show her strength against the great Titania. She kept up easily, matching her speed and strength with that of her aunt. Blade matched blade, hit matched hit, block matched block.

The new Iron Maiden was proving her worth.

The two paused in mid-air, a good distance away from each other. Neither was even short of breath nor down any Magic Power.

Erza smiled. "Well… Color me impressed," she decided. "For someone so young, you can keep up with me and your power hasn't even wavered. I might have to meet this Chief Cheng after all and speak to her about her training."

"She's a great teacher," Olivia recalled. "I hope I'm making her proud."

"How admirable," Erza complimented as she dismissed her swords. "I'm sure your teacher would be proud. Requip!" It took Erza no less than a few seconds for her to shed her armor and don her Black Wing Armor with her two axes in hand already. She flapped her fingers to steady herself. "That's better. A beast versus a beast. Quite a theme, don't you think?"

Olivia grinned as her blades retracted back into her gauntlets. "Aye, sir," she agreed. "I call upon my Iron Claws!" In an instant, three claws appeared on the knuckles of both of her hands. She curled her hands into fists and allowed her claws to gleam. "I hope you know nothing beats an Iron Beast," she forewarned.

Erza hummed. "I take that as a challenge. And I accept."

Instantly, the two engaged in another battle.

---

Igneel sighed loudly. "Come on!" he whined. "Where is everybody?" He had been wandering around Magnolia for what seemed like hours and no sign of anyone. This was getting boring fast. A thought occurred to him and made him smile like an excited child. "Maybe everyone got beat out and I'm the last one left!" he thought. "Yes! That means I get to face the mystery boss! That's got my fire goin' just thinkin' about it!" He paused. "But, wait… Where is Kardia Cathedral anyways?"

He came to halt when he realized he had no clue where he was.

What if I'm all the way on the other side? Crap! I'll never get to the cathedral if I have no clue where to go!

Igneel looked at the tall building to his right and grinned, his eyes flashing.

Maybe if I just climb to the roof I can get a reading of where I am, he thought. Ha! I bet no one else thought of that! I'm a genius!

He ran over to the building and began to scale it.

"MJ and Nashi always said climbing was stupid," he grunted. "But how could it be? It's so much fun!"

Igneel hauled his body onto the roof and crowed his victory, pumping a fist. "I made it! Ha! I'm smarter than everyone else!" He took started walking around, looking at the layout of Magnolia. "Now let's see… I'm here, and the cathedral should be th—Gah!"

Lightning bolted at him, shocking his entire being. Igneel shouted when another bolt of lightning came out and ran away from it only to belatedly realize he had run clear off the roof. He fell to the ground with a thud on his side and groaned in pain.

"What the Hell?" he moaned. "What was that for?"

Igneel looked up at the sky and saw Freed's ruins working themselves. A screen appeared on the ruins and Freed appeared with scolding on his face.

"None are permitted to use the roofs to get an advantage in the Battle of Fairy Tail, Igneel, or must I remind you the consequences," Freed threatened.

Igneel pouted. "But it seemed like such a good idea," he mumbled.

Freed sighed. "Just play fair, Igneel. And good luck." The screen and Freed disappeared within a blink of an eye.

Igneel sighed as he got up and stretched. "Fine," he groused. "I guess I should play fair."

He got back to walking, boredom written on his face.

Without anyone to fight, this is so lame. If I don't get a good challenge soon, I just might—

His thoughts stopped when he caught something.

What is that? It smells like something kind of burning and fruity and is that—he took another sniff—cologne?

The ruins flared in Ancient Language and trapped its prey.

"Well, well, well," Igneel tutted. "If it isn't Uncle Romeo."

Romeo stepped out from the shadows and grinned at Igneel, crossing his arms over his chest. "Little Dragneel," he taunted. "Didn't think I'd see you this far into the festival."

Igneel snorted. "Please. Beating those guys was nothing. But beating you?" He lit his fists ablaze. "Well, that just gets my fire goin'."

Romeo uncrossed his arms and fire lit up from his fists as well. "Like father, like son," he laughed. "I might not be able to beat Natsu. But I'm definitely able to beat you."

"Doubt it," Igneel said. "But challenge so accepted."

With two loud battle cries, the two Rainbow Fire Mages set off to defeat the other.

---

It was a strange feeling for Elvin to wake up. He did not feel like himself when he did. He groaned as he stirred in his bed and tried to sit up. "My body hurts," he muttered. "What happened?"

A grunt. "So, the human beast boy awakens. Just my luck."

Elvin sat up to survey his surroundings. He was not in the Fairy Tail infirmary. Instead, he seemed to be inside of a tree. Potions brewed. Kettles hissed. Solutions bubbled. The smell of herbs was a strong taste more so than smell. It was one of those tastes that mixed tangy and spicy and could not get rid of no matter how many times you tried. The place was small, like a studio inside a tree. There was a kitchen—it was old-fashioned and small, but had all the necessities—and there was a small library crammed with books and knowledge of all sorts. Porlyusica hovered over her stove as she stirred a brew in an old pot.

"Granny Porlyusica—" Elvin groaned as he massaged his temples. "My body hurts everywhere," he complained.

Porlyusica snorted. "That's what you humans get for fighting," she muttered. "Now, sit still. You're still in recovery."

Elvin frowned as he brought his hands down. He ran them over his still-pointed ears before allowing them to trail to his teeth and feel his canines. His hands went to his shoulder to feel the tender bandages. His eyes softened.

So, none of that was a dream.

"I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry," echoed repeated apology.

Elvin could remember her tear-stricken face riddled with guilt and horror.

Mary Jane…

"Here. Drink this."

Elvin looked up to see Porlyusica offering him a bowl of green soup. He took it gratefully. "Thank you," he appreciated.

Porlyusica hmphed. "Don't thank me. Thank Freed for sending you here than that infirmary at the guild. Your secret would've been exposed if you had been."

Elvin stared at his soup and nodded. "Yeah," he agreed in a mumble.

My secret… My Magic…

"I hate you!" came a scream. "You don't love her like I do!"

A piercing scream. "Elvie!"

Elvin hardened at the memories.

If only I could stay in control… If only I hadn't…

"Drink up," came Porlyusica's orders as she shuffled away. She brought Elvin to reality. "The soup in there has been adjusted to your body type specifically. It'll help you heal faster."

Elvin nodded. "Okay. Thanks." He brought the bowl to his lips and began guzzling it down.

Porlyusica tended to her brew. "Before you ask, that feisty human—Mary Jane—is doing fine…physically," she reported slowly. "As for her mental state?" She stopped stirring as she frowned deeply.

Elvin finished most of the contents and looked at Porlyusica in worry. "Where is she?"

Porlyusica went to a jar of parsley and opened it. "She's decided to stay in our confinement area within Fairy Tail," she announced as she took herbs and flaked them into the brew.

Elvin's eyes widened. "What?" he whispered. "But, that's for—"

"She thought it would be best for her to stay there," Porlyusica informed. "She's been refusing outside help, even from her own parents." She shook her head as she set down the parsley and sniffed the brew.

Elvin looked at the rest of his soup. It was nearly three-fourths the way gone.

Oh, Mary Jane… She must be feeling so traumatized.

"I'm sorry," echoed a whimper. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry…"

Tearful cerulean eyes that flirted with emerald.

Elvin's eyes saddened.

Everyone has ghosts in their pasts. But, hers… They aren't just in her past. They live in her present.

"Human beast boy," called Porlyusica. "Tell me: what is the purpose of you hiding those ears and fangs? You aren't alone with those things. Those stupid Slayers and their offspring, for the most part, have fangs. And ears are just ears."

When Elvin answered, it was slow and deliberate. "When I look like this, I feel…like I'm not even human anymore," he admitted. "I hurt someone I care about when I was like this. I won't be like that for her sake."

"Sounds to me like you're just running away like most humans do," Porlyusica grunted. "There is no point in living in constant self-loathing. If you want to move on from what happened, you have to face it, not hide from it. As for your appearance, I can personally tell you I've seen worse. Warrod turned himself into a tree." She hmphed and shook her head. "Do you know how hard it is to take care of a human who is part tree?"

Elvin smiled a little, but it was half-hearted. "Thank you, Granny Porlyusica, for everything," he appreciated, "but I… I don't think I'm ready yet to look at myself in a mirror and like what I see."

"Hmm. Very well then," Porlyusica supposed. "And your Magic?"

Elvin shook his head. "I made a promise to myself to never use that Magic again," he told her. "I broke it when I helped Mary Jane. But I can't break it again. I'm not a mindless beast—I'm a human. And that is how it is going to stay."

"You're a thing caught between two worlds of man and beast, not unlike those Slayers," Porlyusica muttered. "They have learned they are more than a beast or man. They are themselves. You reject your beast side, your Magic, to stay 'human'. But, what does 'human' even mean? Does it mean to be more civilized? Less instinctual? More stupid?" She gave a small "ha" as a snort. "And what does it mean to be a beast? Does it mean 'killer'? Does it mean 'savage'? These are things you should be thinking about, human beast boy. Find the meaning of each if you want to find the true power of you."

"The meaning of human and beast," Elvin echoed. "I never really thought about that. To me, it's always been 'human' is the better choice, but… Now, I don't even know what it means to be human."

And finding the true power of me? What does she mean by that?

Porlyusica turned off her stove. "Get some rest," she ordered gruffly as she walked to the door. "I'm going out for more herbs." She was gone with a flutter of her cape and the slam of a door.

And Elvin was left alone to dwell in his thoughts.

---

In the hospital, in Mara's room, Eloise sat on the bed with clear excitement. "Okay, so what else can you teach me?"

Mara gave a silent laugh as she signed to Eloise.

Eloise furrowed her eyebrows as she tried to understand. "'I…can…teach you…more…tomorrow'," she translated. She pouted. "But I want to learn more now!" she pleaded. "Just a few more words?"

Mara signed again to her.

Eloise translated: "'You…have to…be…'." She frowned as she watched Mara place her thumbnail on her chin and drag it down a little. "I don't know that word," she confessed.

"That means 'patient'," Orochi translated from his seat beside Mara.

Eloise nodded as she copied the motion. "Patient," she repeated. She groaned. "But, I don't want to be patient."

The sound of ringing came from the living room and Orochi stood, setting down his nearly-finished soda. He signed and thought to his sister, I'll get it.

Traitor, he heard slip through his mind as he walked out of the room. He went to the Communications Lacrima on a stand that looked like a crystal platform. It flashed as it rang, wanting attention. Orochi obliged and tapped the screen.

A projection of Laxus popped up. He looked at Orochi with those strong emerald eyes. "Orochi," he said gruffly, "is anyone around you?"

Orochi shook his head. "No. Why?"

Laxus sighed heavily and that was when Orochi could see his true age. He could see the weariness in Laxus' eyes, the sadness. "It's Mary Jane," he spoke lowly. "She went through a relapse and attacked Elvin."

Orochi's eyes widened. "Oh, no," he whispered. "How are they doing?"

"Elvin was taken back to Porlyusica," Laxus reported. "He's recovering, but I was told he woke up not too long ago. Evergreen is on her way to see him before coming for Eloise."

Orochi nodded. "And Mary Jane?"

That was when Laxus' expression visibly dropped. "She's put herself in the guild confinement area," he informed, though sounded pained to do so.

"'The guild…confinement area'?" That surprised Orochi. "But that's—"

"I know." Laxus said the two words as though they carried the weight of the word. He sighed. "I know, Orochi, but she thinks it's best if she stays there. She feels like a threat and doesn't want to see anyone. Not even Mira or me." He shook her head. "I can hear my butterfly crying. She's hurting. And I can't do anything about it," he muttered.

Orochi did not know what to say. "Uncle Laxus…"

"With our friend gone, Mara is our only hope," Laxus said. He looked at Orochi with an expression he rarely wore: desperation. "I wouldn't ask this if I didn't have another choice, but I leave the choice completely up to her."

Mars's voice filled Orochi's head. I'll do it.

Orochi frowned. Are you sure? Last time—

I know, but I'll be ready this time.

Orochi nodded at Laxus. "She says she'll do it," he told. "But… You know how Mary Jane is with Telepathy."

"This is our only choice," Laxus reasoned. "She's hurting, Orochi. We have to help her."

Orochi sighed. "I know. Once Aunt Ever comes, we'll come with her back to Fairy Tail."

"Thank you," Laxus appreciated. "I'll see you soon."

The projection disappeared.

Orochi straightened. Mara, are you sure about this?

I am, Orochi. Mara's words were firm. She needs me and I won't turn my back on those who need me.

Orochi chuckled out loud and through their link. You're so annoying.

It's called 'being amazing'.

Whatever you say, Mar.

The front door barged open. "Mama Justy is home!" came a trill.

Eloise came running from the bedroom with a happy giggle to greet the guest. "Justin!"

Justin smiled at her. "Hey, El. I thought you'd be here."

From Justin's pale complexion to his lithe figure, anyone could tell he was a high-maintenance man from a mile away. His lengthy hair was a light blue and in a low ponytail with a gray beanie on top. He wore the same gray shirt with a cross symbol on it with a lengthy gray cardigan over top, and black on his drop-crotch harem pants and his shoes with no laces, just like his adoptive father. Sunglasses of white rested on his head with his beanie. What brought attention to himself were his ice blue eyes. His left eye was natural—even if it was normally covered with hair—but within his right eye was a white cross that he was born with.

⌜FAIRY TAIL

Name: Justin Justine

Age: 19

Occupation: S-Class Mage

Magic: Kinetic

Likes: classic literature Dislikes: anything ordinary

Special Note: Justin may be a little flamboyant and arrogant, but don't underestimate him! His powers will give you a run for your money!⌟

Eloise lifted her chin. "That's Princess El to you," she corrected.

Justin made a dramatic show of bowing down. "Oh, yes, Your Grace, how could I not bow before your beauty?"

Eloise waved him away. "Compliments won't do you any good, peasant, but you get to live another day."

Justin bowed lower. "Oh, thank you, Your Grace, for allowing such a thing." He waved a to-go back in front of her. "And look what this peasant brought for such a beauty?"

Eloise stole the bag from him with sparkles in his eyes. "You brought dessert!" she squealed. "Is it—?"

"Mmm-hmm. A dozen snickerdoodles, a half a dozen chocolate chips, and a few custard-filled donuts with chocolate frosting. Just how my fair ladies like them," Justin rattled off.

Eloise gave Justin a quick hug. "Thank you, Justy!" She ran to Mara's bedroom. "Mara! Mara! Look! Justy brought desserts for us!"

Justin sighed as he shook his head in amusement. "My, my. I suppose it'll be a mistake of me to give her sugar. She's already hyper as it is."

Orochi smiled faintly. "Maybe she'll get a sugar high and crash." He gave Justin a nod of acknowledgement. "I was wondering when you'd stop by."

Justin grinned. "Well, how could I not? I had to see my favorite and so cute roomie," he reminded with a wink. He lunged at Orochi with open arms and a blissful expression. "Come give me a hug, Chi-chi!" he beseeched.

Orochi sidestepped Justin's attack with a sigh. "You and I both know when you want a hug, it means something else."

Justin bounced back onto his feet with a pout on his lips. "You're no fair, Chi-chi. You won't even let me have a piece of you and you're such a fine specimen," he whined. He stroked Orochi's arm. "You have all those tattoos and all that muscle…" He let out a dreamy sigh. "Ugh! All of such a handsome piece of man wasted on females!"

"Not any female yet," Orochi reminded. "But, that doesn't mean you have a shot."

Justin groaned theatrically. "If only you would change your mind," he whined. "I could show you a good time, Chi-chi. We'd be so cute together."

"You told me you didn't want a roommate you're in a relationship with," Orochi remembered.

Justin grinned as he caressed Orochi's cheek. "You're my exception," he purred.

Orochi gently took Justin's hand and pulled it from his cheek. "I'll have to pass on the offer right now, Justin," he declined. "Do you mind watching Eloise until Aunt Ever gets here? Mara and I are heading back to the guild."

Justin shrugged as he set down his personal bag. "Yes, but will you—?"

"I'm not going out with you," Orochi rejected. "But, how about I set you up with a friend?"

Justin pouted. "Oh, fine. Be that way. You'll come crawling to me someday."

Orochi only chuckled. "That's what you always say, Justin," he said as he walked to Mara's bedroom. You ready to go now? he asked her.

As Orochi came into the room, Mara thought back to him, Yes. Could you get my—?

On it. Orochi maneuvered himself to the side of the bed as Eloise stuffed her face with snickerdoodles. As he unfolded the wheelchair, Eloise swallowed her sweets and asked, "Where are you two going?"

Orochi set the wheelchair on the ground. "We have to go to the guild for a few minutes," he explained.

Eloise whined. "Aw. But, I wanted to learn more Sign Language!"

Mara signed to Eloise and Eloise tried to translate. "'There…is…always…tomorrow'," she repeated. She pouted, but seemed to accept that answer. "Yeah. I guess so," she mumbled.

Justin came into the room. "Don't worry, princess. Mama Justy and you are going to have all sorts of fun while they're gone," he promised.

Eloise visibly brightened. "That sounds wonderful, peasant!"

Orochi stepped to the bed. He was careful as he removed the covers from Mara's legs before scooping her up into his arms. She grabbed onto him as an automatic reaction as he carried her to her chair. He set her down carefully and she took care of front rigging.

Eloise came up to Mara and hugged her, releasing her quickly. "Same time, same place?" she asked.

Mara chuckled silently and nodded.

Eloise looked at Orochi with a warning finger. "You take care of her, okay?"

Orochi laughed. "Yes, ma'am." He stood behind the wheelchair and pushed it forward gently.

As he maneuvered her out of the room, Justin beamed at Mara and signed his words to her. "Don't even worry about it, Mara-doll. My dear princess and I will be just fine," he promised.

Mara signed her thanks as Orochi led her out of the room and into the living room. As he took them down the hall, he asked Mara, Are you sure about this? We don't have to—

No need to worry about me, Orochi. I'll be fine, Mara assured as she pressed the button to open the front door. She's hurting, Chi-chi. I can sense immense pain coming from Fairy Tail. She needs me.

Orochi pushed her out of the doorway and turned to shut it. He paused. I know she needs you and I know she's hurting. But, Mara, don't forget: you're hurting too.

And Mara's eyes drifted to her lap as Orochi closed the doorway.

---

SHING. SHING.

POP.

BAM.

BOOM.

The fight between the new Iron Maiden and the old Iron Maiden went on and on.

Erza paused. She had a few wounds and was a little out of breath, but nothing she could not handle. She spun her axes. The axes spun until only red-light could be seen from the two as they collected particles of energy. "Starfall Impact!" The light from the axes blasted before the two blasts intertwined into a larger beam.

Olivia paused and gritted her teeth. She had a few wounds as well and was shorting in breath, but it did not both her. She lashed her tail. "Iron Wheel!" she chanted. She tucked herself into a ball and started spinning rapidly as her platinum Magic covered her. Her wheel of Magic grew larger and larger as the Starfall Impact came closer and closer. As Erza's spell hit the Iron Wheel, the beam pushed on the wheel, but Olivia pushed back harder until the beam dissolved into particles.

Erza grinned. "You managed to break my Starfall Impact. Not many can say they have done the same," she told her niece. "Especially one so young as yourself."

Olivia broke out of her Iron Wheel and wiped her chin. "You and I both know you wouldn't have used that attack unless you considered me at least a formidable challenge. That makes me glad." She paused for her next attack. "Iron Wing!" Her wings glowed in her Magic and she sped over to Erza.

Erza skillfully dodged the attack before using her own. She dismissed her axes before summoning her sword. She held the sword up. "Absolute Zero!" she shouted as she slashed the sword down in mid-air. Teal Magic came out in a large slash, hurling itself at Olivia.

Olivia looked over her shoulder and spun around in time to catch it between her hands. She gritted her teeth as she fought against the strength of the spell. But after a few more moments of fighting, she dissolved the spell in her own hands. She looked at Erza and retracted her claws. "My turn." She allowed Magic to light her tail and charged at Erza. "Iron Tail!"

Olivia flipped in the air and her tail lashed at Erza.

Erza blocked the attack with her sword.

It was a test of strength between the tail and the sword.

BAM.

An explosion of power went off between them. Both of them flew away, stares connecting challengingly.

Erza wasted no time on her next attack, stilling in the air as Magic consumed her wings. "Bolide Meteor Shower!" she chanted. Out of her wings came balls of teal fire that hurtled toward Olivia.

Olivia was fast to dodge the fireballs, her eyes never losing sight of the herd of them as they came at her. Only one hit her side and the impact had her growl, clutching her side, but she did not lose altitude. Instead, she raised a hand. "Thousand Spikes!" she chanted. Out of her hand came glowing spikes that's aim was to Erza. Many of the spikes pierced through the fireballs and explosions littered the air with smoke to go with it. But the glowing spikes that had made it past the fireballs sought out Erza.

Erza was quick to react and took to the skies. The spikes gave chase, but she held her own as she went in intricate patterns to get them off her tail. However, the spikes would not relent. Erza battled a few of them away with the night of her sword and had confused a few of the spikes into hitting each other. However, a few of them had made it to her and hacked at her armor. One of them had even pierced her wing. She cursed as she dropped a little in altitude and inspected the damage on her armor. The tear was minor and would need a small sewing repair. But for now, it would still do as long as she protected her wings.

Erza caught a gleam of spikes heading her way and went back into flight uneasily.

If I keep up this type of flying, the tear may worsen, she deduced.

She glanced over at Olivia and her eyes widened.

What…?

Olivia had a hand on her injured side and Magic came out of her hand in waves. Soon, she had completed what she was doing and looked to examine her work. Her side had completely healed.

She's learned how to heal with her Magic, Erza realized. A useful skill indeed. Those spikes must have been to distract me. Well played.

Erza spun around and slashed her sword. "Absolute Zero!" she chanted. The gleaming slash went straight for the spikes headed toward her and sliced them in half. Explosions went off and it ruffled Erza's hair, but her eyes were locked on Olivia who had noticed her distraction held no more value.

Erza grinned. "Good strategy. You used your spikes to distract me as you healed yourself. Distraction is key in a battle. Used effectively and it gives you time to plan your next move."

Olivia nodded. "So it seems. My spikes have done well. But I'm not finished yet." She clasped her hands in prayer. "I call upon the Iron Beast within me to lend me strength…"

Erza summoned one of her axes. "Casting a spell will only do you good if you can cast it before my attack hits you." She crossed her axe over her sword and Magic swallowed both of them, shaping them into something new. "Combine my sword and axe and form…" Magic cracked off it. In Erza's hand was a large black crossbow that gleamed in blood thirst. "…my Corona Crossbow!" An arrow was already in blade, black and ready. "Seek out, my Corona…"—Erza pulled the trigger—"…Arrow!" The arrow was sent off into the sky and morphed mid-air into a gleaming black creature with glowing red eyes. It let out a crow and soared down to Olivia.

Olivia continued her prayer. "Allow me to use the Magic within to make me the beast without… I summon…"—the pauldrons she wore were enrapt in her Magic and expanded and morphed into something new. The Magic shattered off them to reveal to large cannon in a shining steal gray—"…the canons of the Iron Beast King!" Something alit in the two canons as Magic particles drifted into the canons, making the light within them grow and brighten. "I summon you now… Iron Beast King's…"—two orbs of gleaming platinum appeared on the iron bar around Olivia's eyes—"…Rooooooooooar!" she shouted.

The two canons blasted their energy.

In mid-air, the energy blasted intertwined themselves and morphed into a large create with a replica of Olivia's straight wings and a lashing tail. Its head was sharp and teeth even sharper. Its eyes were a blazing red as it flew over to the creature of black. It reared back its head and let out a feral roar before it dove head-first at the black creature.

The two collided.

The Magic exploded.

BOOM.

Olivia and Erza were both thrown back farther away from each other in the sky.

Smoke. Dust. Magic. Wind. Chaos.

Silence.

It took a while for everyone to clear. Both women were panting from the spots in the sky as they waited for the smoke to clear.

The smoke cleared.

Cool iron matched cool kobicha.

Neither moved. Neither spoke.

Both stared.

It was a couple of moments of exchanged pants before Erza spoke. "Chief Cheng has a strong student," she flattered.

"You would like her," Olivia decided, regaining breath. "She's quite like you: strong and elegant in her own way. She's known to be the Metal Queen."

"The Metal Queen against the Fairy Queen." Erza mulled over the idea. "That would be quite a battle. If she fights the way I do, then I can see the experience being a good one."

More silence.

Olivia spoke up first. "Your Corona Arrow," she began. "You only use that when a battle is getting serious."

Erza nodded. "I do," she agreed.

Olivia shook her head in disbelief. "I never thought you would use that attack on me," she admitted. "I'm not even that powerful in comparison to you."

Erza cocked an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"

Olivia looked at the ground beneath her. "You are the great Titania of Fairy Tail, Queen of Fairies, the powerful Erza Scarlet. I am merely Olivia Redfox, Iron Maiden of Fairy Tail. We both may be S-Class, but even I know there are different levels of S-Class." She clenched her fists. "You are one of the most feared wizards I've seen. How could I compare to you?"

Erza offered Olivia a soft look. "The titles we are given don't define us," she chided gently. "How we train and what we do with our training defines us. I was born with much Magic Power, but so were you." She sighed. "When Mystogan was born, he was born with so much power that he cried because he had no idea how to let some of it out. He trained hard to control his Magic Power and become stronger. I look at my son now. He has grown into a fine S-Class Mage with power to spare. And though he may be my son, by the way he has trained, I know he has enough Magic Power that he could fight me evenly."

Olivia looked at Erza in shock. "Really?"

Erza nodded. "Both you and your brother were born with great potential. But it doesn't matter if someone has a great potential with Magic. It is how they train and control with their Magic until they are one with it that matters. Look at Luna." She breathed a laugh. "Anyone around her knows she has much Magic Power. So much that even regular people can sense it. But without training, she is left virtually defenseless. With training, she could easily take either one of us down even at her age."

Erza went on: "Don't think you don't compare to me. Don't even try to compare yourself. Just continue to fight your hardest. That's all you can ever do."

At Olivia's unconvinced look, Erza confessed, "You know, not even your father could have gotten me to do my Corona Arrow at your age."

Olivia perked up at that. "Really?"

Erza nodded. "Aye. So, remember the day Erza Scarlet said you were a worthy opponent. That should give you confidence."

Olivia smiled and bowed. "Thanks, Aunt Erza."

Erza hummed. "Hmm. Now, let us get back to this battle. Requip!" Again, it took no less than a few seconds to shed her Black Wing Armor. She requipped into her Adamantine Armor proudly. "Prepare yourself!" Erza took off her two shields and slammed them together. Slowly, she broke them apart and aqua Magic was between them. "Flash Cannon!"

Erza held the two shields steady as the Magic between them hummed and hissed, static spontaneously cracking, before a beam of bright light bolted.

Olivia gathered energy in her hands. "Iron…Bullets!" Bullets aglow with her Magic shot from her palms and towards the beam of light.

And when they met?

BOOM.

---

Evergreen slammed open the door to Porlyusica's hut. "Where is he?" she demanded.

A tick mark.

Evergreen found herself being smacked out of the house by a broom.

"You stupid humans need to respect my home!" came Porlyusica's shout. "I'm getting too old for this!"

Evergreen groaned as she got up. "Old bat," she muttered.

Porlyusica raised her broom again with lethal threat in her eyes. "Want to say that again, human?"

Evergreen waved her arms frantically as a nervous smile perched on her face. "Oh, no, no, sorry for troubling you, Porlyusica, but can I see my son?"

"No," Porlyusica spat. "You come barging into my house and demand to see the human beast boy. The nerve of you stupid, little humans!"

"You're human too," Evergreen tried to point out, though found herself cowering behind a log when a furious Porlyusica pointed the tip of her broom at her with fire in her eyes.

"Test me, human, and see how forgiving I will be!" Porlyusica roared.

Evergreen tried hard not to tremble.

What did I do to deserve this? I just wanted to make sure Elvin is okay.

As Porlyusica spat fire and ranted threats she would gladly carry out, Elvin peeked from behind her with a curious expression. His eyes sought his mother and widened. "Mom? What are you doing here?

Evergreen laughed nervously as Porlyusica get threatening her. "Oh, just here to see you, sweetie, and come help take care of you." She held up the bag she carried. "And I brought you some clothes."

Elvin beckoned his mother inside. "Okay. Come in," he encouraged.

As Porlyusica snarled louder, Evergreen thought, I would, but I think the old bat might kill me.

°•°•°•°

Evergreen was seated with tea while she watched her son flit about at Porlyusica's instruction and help her with her work. He was changed into loose sweatpants and a tank-top, nothing as fancy as his suit from before. However, he did not seem to mind he looked more like a bum than the gentleman his codename gave him.

Porlyusica shuffled over to him as he prepared a brew and she showed him two jars. "This is turmeric." The jar was in her right and filled with orange powder. "It's an anticoagulant type of herb. Helps thin blood. Fights clots. Reduces risks of strokes and attacks."

Elvin nodded studiously as he took the jar. "I see…"

Porlyusica held out the other jar filled with a grayed yellow-green herb. "This is elderflower," she rumbled. "It's used for sinusitis, colds, flus, bronchitis, diabetes, and all of that." She nodded towards the turmeric jar. "Put around two grams of of turmeric in the brew, then four of the elderflower. After that, put in the three grams of yarrow."

Elvin nodded. "Yes, Granny."

Evergreen watched as Elvin worked diligently on the brew he was given while Porlyusica attended to a more complex remedy. She was fascinated at the concentration on Elvin's face.

He looks so at peace here. He's always had a thing for herbs. I don't think he even noticed his appearance yet.

Evergreen looked into her tea and her eyes softened as she frowned.

My little elf… My little beastie…

Evergreen bit her tongue to stop herself from cursing when she felt a small pound in her head. She rubbed her temple instead.

Just my luck.

"Oh, um… Here."

Evergreen looked up to see Elvin offering her a small envelope with a smile.

"This is some Melissa and a little rosemary. It should help with headaches," he informed his mother. "Want me to mix it in with your tea?"

Evergreen blinked in surprise. "Oh… Sure," she allowed.

Elvin gently took the tea from his mother and took it to a counter to work on. As he added the herbs and more hot water, Evergreen could not help but smile. "I see you've been practicing herbology," she noted.

Porlyusica grumbled. "He kept invading my home and bothering Wendy and I, but he's been good help, for a human beast boy."

Elvin flushed. "That means a lot coming from you, Granny Porlyusica."

Porlyusica rolled her eyes and mumbled to herself.

Elvin finished the tea for his mother and handed it to her. "Here you go."

Evergreen took it graciously. "Thank you." She took a sip and was surprised. "I think I taste mint," she realized.

Elvin nodded. "Just a little for flavor. I know it's your favorite," he spoke. He shuffled closer and nodded towards the drink eagerly. "Do you like it?"

"I love it," Evergreen amended. "Thank you so much."

A tick mark.

"What did I say about messing with the recipe?" came a low snarl.

Elvin ducked frantically as Porlyusica kept swatting her broom at him.

"Stupid human beast boy!" Porlyusica snapped. "Are you trying to kill someone?"

As the broom came down, Elvin caught it. "No, but personalizing the medicine to the patient's taste would want to make them take it," he reasoned, albeit anxiously.

Porlyusica glared at him. Then, she sighed and retracted her broom. "Good. You actually learned something for once," she muttered. "Personalizing the medicine to cater the idiot patient is fine, but do not overdue it on making it flavorful. Those idiots will come to like it and want more and the flavor might overpower the initial herbs." She shot him a sharp look. "Got that?"

Elvin nodded quickly. "Yes, Granny."

"Good." A tick mark appeared on Porlyusica's head again. "Now, can you tell me why you left your brew unattended, you stupid human beast boy?!"

Elvin scrambled back to his brew. "S-S-Sorry, Granny!" he apologized.

Porlyusica snorted and went back to her complex remedy.

Evergreen had thoughts racing during the whole interaction.

They get along so well. Wendy had told me Elvin had been learning from both of them. But, he rejected the offer to become a healer or even an herbalist.

Her eyebrows furrowed.

It makes me wonder…

°•°•°•°

"Bye, Porlyusica!"

"Bye, Granny!"

"Get out of my house, you stupid humans!"

Evergreen and Elvin left the hut behind as they made their way through the forest. Evergreen glanced at her son to see him back to his state of neat hair, no canines, and no tattoos.

"Elvin," Evergreen called, "how are you feeling?"

"Better," Elvin reported. "Much better. Granny gave me herbs that worked really well for me. I'm pretty sure I know the recipe from the taste, but I'm not too sure."

"You can know herbs by taste?" Evergreen breathed.

Elvin nodded, smiling. "Mmm-hmm. Wendy told me it was a skill all healers and herbalists need to know." Then, he added quickly, "Not like I'm going to be one, though."

Evergreen frowned. "Why not?" she wondered. "You seem so fascinated by it all."

Elvin shrugged. "Just not for me. I don't think I'd make a good one. I'm more cut out for being a Mage."

Evergreen sighed. "My little beastie… You know it doesn't matter who or what you want to become, right? Your dad and I will support anything you want to do."

Elvin looked away from him mother. "Yeah. I know," he mumbled.

When Evergreen saw that was the last of the conversation, she announced, "Well, let's get to the hospital. We need to pick up Eloise before heading to the guild." She paused. "Mary Jane is in the—"

"I know." Elvin seemed despondent at that. "I just hope she's okay."

Evergreen softened. "I do too, beastie. I do too."

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Fairy Adventure

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

The guild doors open and Mara was wheeled into the guild with Orochi. He guided her down the ramp while he looked at the guild. Guild members were being tended to while others were chatting over their battles and over new ones. Food and drink were being given to whoever wanted it. Other guild mates who were not needing assistance and did not need to help assist were getting the guild ready for the big event later in the night. Orochi's eyes snapped onto Laxus who was with Freed, muttering commands as something similar to second-in-command to the guild master. He noticed Mara and Orochi approaching the stage and muttered a few words to Freed who nodded, then he abandoned him.

Laxus met Orochi and Mara halfway, though his eyes were more on Mara. "Thank you," he breathed. "Thank you for coming to her."

Mara signed and Orochi translated. "She says, 'It's no problem at all. You said she's in the guild confinement area?'"

Laxus nodded. "Yes. Mira is outside her door. She's been trying to get Mary Jane to let her in, but…" He shook her head. "You'll have to see for yourself." He led the two to the stairs to the lower levels of Fairy Tail. There were no ramps to get to the lower level, so Orochi carried his sister while Laxus took the wheelchair down the steps. It was a slow, but efficient process and once they got downstairs and readjusted Mara, Laxus led them further down. They reached the end of the hallway where there was a door to spiral stairs that went up and down as well as an elevator.

As Laxus pressed the button, Orochi murmured, "I didn't know we had an elevator in the guild."

"Not many do," Laxus answered gruffly. "It wasn't built for us to use all the time. We only use it to get to the lower levels that only myself, the guild master, Kinana, Gildarts, Mira, and any other authorized member chosen by the guild master can get to."

Orochi looked at the elevator as the words stuck to him.

I knew about our guild confinement area, but I didn't realize how high level seeing it actually was.

DING.

The elevator opened. Orochi wheeled in Mara before Laxus joined. The buttons to choose from each had an abbreviation by them that would need explaining to get to. The button Laxus pressed had the letters CA next to it. The elevator closed and they rode down with silent between them.

Orochi let out a quiet breath.

You okay?

Orochi looked down to see Mara turning to give him an emerald stare of concern. He gave her a small smile. I'm fine, Mar. Really. I guess I'm just a little jittery, he confessed. Not every day you get to go to the guild confinement area.

It's not as scary as it sounds, Mara soothed. She turned back around. We'll be okay, Chi-chi.

Orochi did not know what to say to her words, so he remained silent.

The elevator stopped, but did not jostle them. Instead, it parted its jaws as encouragement for them to leave. Laxus had Orochi wheel Mara out first before joining them in the hallway. Orochi looked around. The hallway was nothing more than a short lobby with one solid door and no windows.

"Where are we?" Orochi wondered.

Laxus grimaced. "In the second lowest floor of Fairy Tail," he revealed. He walked to the door and opened it for them. "Come. This way."

Orochi wheeled Mara towards the door and once he passed it—

—he had wished he had not.

The new section of Fairy Tail they were in looked like something you only saw in the storybooks. There was not a scrap of light besides a few poorly lit torches at the stare of the hall. Drip, drip, drip came drops from the cracks, forming muddy puddles. There was no wood. There was just stone hard-pressed together to make floors and walls. The stench of the dungeon was not as pungent as one would think, but it still made you wrinkle your nose and wish for cleaner air. The doors were a mystery. Each door was bolted with a single viewing bar that could be opened only from the outside. But the material of the door… Orochi did not understand what they were made of and stared at them curiously.

Laxus led them forward. "This way," he beckoned. "The torches are motion sensored. They ignite only when they feel pressure."

Orochi wheeled Mara after him, His eyes beheld the dungeon with questions and underlying fear.

I know the confinement area was our dungeon, but… I never imagined this would be under Fairy Tail.

Laxus' rumble snapped him out of his thoughts. "The dungeons weren't something we built because we knew we'd have prisoners," he assured. "But, they were built nonetheless."

"The doors," Orochi started. "What are they made of?"

"A material that can confine a fully realized Dragon Slayer and even a Magic Council member."

Orochi nearly stopped at the news. The words were too shocking. "But… How—?"

"Unfortunately, you aren't at a level for me to give that information," Laxus informed. "The guild master herself must be the one to tell you. Just know each and every one of these cells could very well house any criminal. And let me tell you…" His eyes hardened. "We've had a few criminals in these cells."

Orochi was stunned into silence at that. He did not know what he could say. He had too many questions and none would be answered.

Just how many people were placed in these dungeons? And what did they do?

The sound of sniffling attracted Orochi's attention. He looked up to see two torches lit in the distance with a distraught Mira leaning against a door with her head hung low. They approached her, but Orochi rolled Mara to a stop while Laxus went to comfort his wife.

Mira looked up at the sound of him with tears streaming down her cheeks. "Oh, Laxus," she whispered. She fell into his arms and let out a cry onto his shoulder, her body shaking. "She won't talk. She won't let me in. I don't know what to do," she cried.

Laxus rubbed Mira's back. "Shhh. Breathe, Mira. Breathe," he instructed gently.

Orochi felt his heart tug at the sight of his aunt Mira's despair and watching his uncle Laxus comfort her.

Poor Aunt Mira…

Chi-chi.

Orochi looked down at Mara who was staring at the door Mira once leaned on.

Can you tell them something for me?

°•°•°•°

As Laxus shushed his wife, there was the clearing of a throat. "Mara would like to say something."

Laxus looked away from Mira to regard Mara something akin to a serious stare. He nodded at her. "Of course."

Orochi translated for her. "She says she will do everything she can to calm her. She promises that," he relayed.

Hope flashed in Laxus' eyes for a moment before they hardened into something grave. "Thank you," he appreciated lowly. His eyes flickered towards the door. "She's inside. Be careful," he warned. "She's awake and aware this time."

Mara nodded. She put a hand on the wheels of her wheelchair and wheeled herself to the door with a bit of struggle. She placed a hand on the door and it glowed under her touch. Ruins spread on the door, rearranging and locking into place before scattering and rearranging. Freed's voice came from the ruins. "Recognized. Fairy Tail Member: Mara. Codename: Vipress. Class: B. Status: active. Authorized by Laxus Dreyar," came his report. The ruins stopped scrambling and sunk back into the door.

Mara pressed the handle down and pushed the door open. She offered one last glance to Orochi.

Worried dark clashed with solid emerald.

Mara wheeled into the cell and the door shut behind her. The prison cell was dark. There were no torches to lighting the cell. Instead, darkness enshrouded Mara. She had little idea how far to go and little idea where Mary Jane was.

"So," came a drawl, "they sent you in, huh?"

A bolt struck and hit a torch. Rather than regular fire, violet fire lit up the cell. It illuminated Mary Jane's face. She looked like she had seen better days, maybe even years. Her skin had paled and a layer of sweat clung to her and wetted her hair. Her eyes were haunted as though she had been living a nightmare every step of her life. She had lost her ponytail with her ribbon flung somewhere. Her headphones were gone. She looked at Mara with blank, bloodshot eyes that held none of her infamous anger or agitation. They were cured of emotion. The only reason you could tell she cried was from the trails of dried water and salt running down her cheeks. She looked sick. You could feel she was sick.

Mara sighed. Mary Jane, she thought, reaching out to the blonde in question, let me help you.

"Get out of my head," Mary Jane snarled. Her eyes flashed with deadly annoyance.

You need help, Mara told her. Let me help you.

"Stay away from me." Mary Jane backed up in her cage. "Stay out of my mind."

Mara raised her hands up. I can't do that, Mary Jane. I'm here to help you. A maroon aura pulsed on her eyes lit up with the same aura. It's okay.

Mary Jane curled back her lip, baring her teeth. "Don't," she snapped. "Stay away from my—!"

She could not speak as she forced to to activate her Magic and let loose a bloodcurdling scream. Her violet Magic outlined her as her eyes were forced to glow. Her hands went to her head, pulling at her hair as though the pain would stop her from feeling the pounding pain of her head.

Mara's hands shook as she tried to keep in control. She could feel her mind diving forcibly into Mary Jane's mind.

°•°•°•°

Cerulean-emerald eyes.

Blood dripping from nimble hands.

A powerful voice rang out, slick and persuasive. "It is by the power of God, I command you! Kill them!"

'Kill. Kill! Kill!'

A mauled body with a leg torn from it and a head that had been snapped to a direction heads should never go.

A high-pitched wail. "My baby! My baby!"

°•°•°•°

Mara gritted her teeth as she pressed forward with Mary Jane shrieking her blood-curling agony.

°•°•°•°

Two lips met, soft and warm.

"Mommy!" came a shrill scream. A hand reached out desperately. "Mommy!"

A silhouette hovered with glowing eyes and a smile that could make your stomach drop and your body tense. "I am the chosen prophet of God. You will obey every word I say for it is God's will." He cackled as he bent closer. "Now, kiss me."

Cerulean-emerald eyes full of tears and madness and everything in-between. "Get out," came a snarl. "Get out. Get out! Get out!"

°•°•°•°

A wave of violet burst from Mary Jane and headed for Mara. Once it hit her, Mara was overcome with violet lightning electrocuting her, hacking at her, hurting her.

Mara gritted her teeth as her wheelchair was forced to give up a little ground. I'm here to help you, Mary Jane. Please. Let me help you. She allowed more maroon Magic to pulse through her and threaded towards Mary Jane. The threads of maroon touched Mary Jane's head like hands caressing her temples.

Mara gave a deep exhale as she kept the connection. It's okay, Mary Jane, she soothed. You aren't alone. We're here for you.

Mary Jane roared wildly, painfully. Her eyes flashed scarlet as threads of glowing violet took over maroon and traveled back towards Mara. And once they connected with her—

—Mara threw her head back, mouth open in shock and pain.

The visions passed her quickly, overlapping, overwhelming her.

°•°•°•°

A silhouette of a man whipping a weeping woman. "Useless harlot!" he snarled. "You disgust me!"

A puddle of blood was on a stony ground. But a reflection could be seen. A reflection of a monster of bleach blonde hair and burning eyes of glowing scarlet.

Mira on the ground. Blood seeped from a deep wound in her stomach and splattered on her delicate face. But, those cerulean eyes had dulled. She was gone. She was no more.

A man cowered in a corner. He had pissed himself of fear and shook violently as he stared at the focus. "No," he pleaded. "Please, don't kill me! Please!"

A hand rose from the focus.

The man whimpered and sobbed. "I don't want to die," he slurred in a sob. "I don't want to—!"

BANG.

The focus showed a man on the ground, coughing blood. The town he lay in had been exterminated and cruelly destroyed. He was the last remnant. He was the last memory.

"Pitiful girl," he coughed. He looked up with a sneer on his face. "You are nothing more than an instrument of God. All you had to do was obey him. But you rebelled. You fought. And this is the price you pay." His sneer turned into a broad smirk. "Kill me. Do it. But, you will never escape this day!" He threw back his head and cackled. "Never!"

A vicious scream that sounded more like a howl of grief.

°•°•°•°

Mara surged her power forward, gaining back ground inch-by-inch.

You aren't alone, Mary Jane, she preached. You're pain isn't just yours. We all feel it.

Violet threads were overtaken by maroon trundles.

We hurt with you. We bleed with you. And we are there for you.

Maroon surrounded Mary Jane, dousing her violet aura.

Images filled Mary Jane's head.

A loving Mirajane.

Laxus showing rare, soft affection.

A bright Lance and his blinding smile.

The hearty guild of Fairy Tail in their hall, going about their day like normal.

A grinning Igneel with that playful mischief about him.

Tears streaked Mary Jane's cheeks as the visions consumed her.

Mara's voice flooded her mind.

Mary Jane, we care about you. And we want you to know nothing will change that.

Maroon counteracted that violet glowing in Mary Jane's eyes and took over.

Softly, sweetly, there played a lullaby.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Rainy days and starry nights and sunny afternoons

Happily ever after always comes so soon

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Mary Jane felt a memory force itself into her vision.

°•°•°•°

The focus was a little blurry, but anyone could see it was light outside. There were pale jades on the ground, representing grass, and a stream of glistening lapis lazuli was behind it, representing water. There was a gray matter as well that could only be assumed as a mountain and there was what looked like a large tree with something on its branches.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

My fairy tale story will never be done

For I'm the one who decides when it will be written

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

The focus swung to a blurred image of a woman sitting in grass. She was a mature, pale thing with flowing white hair and a summer dress a deep shade of maroon. In her hands was a guitar she strummed as though it was instinct.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

My fairy tale of shining nights and dragons isn't true

My fairy tale starts with a boy one sunny afternoon

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

The focus shifted to see someone was sitting next to it. They were young. They had messy hair the color of dandelions and what looked like a wide grin in such an obscured focus. Their eyes were dark as well. The person stood up from the blurry grass and offered a hand.

His mouth moved.

No sound came out.

The singing was now more distant than it was close.

Birds of scarlet cawed as they abandoned a tree and flew away in panic.

A wail rang in the air.

°•°•°•°

Mara allowed her power to withdrawal from Mary Jane just as Mary Jane shivered and threw up. She spluttered and coughed as Mara let her maroon aura and threads vanquish into the night.

Mary Jane kept coughing.

Mara slumped in her wheelchair. Sweat sheened off her skin and her eyes were heavily exhausted. But, there was something else in her eyes as she watched Mary Jane convulse and throw up again. There was sadness for her.

Mary Jane, Mara whispered.

Mary Jane hacked and shook her head. "I'm fine," she grumbled hoarsely.

You're not fine, Mary Jane, Mara pointed out. What happened—

"Is none of your damn business," Mary Jane snapped. She coughed for two beats before spitting. "I could feel you going through my mind. Let me tell you: I didn't like it at all."

I didn't see them as much as I felt them, Mara assured. I know anyone's mind is sacred. Probing without permission is not something I aspire to do.

Mary Jane clutched the wall as she staggered to her feet. "Whatever," she rumbled. "Stay out of my head." She stumbled to her cage door and touched the lock. Her hand glowed violet for a moment.

CLICK.

She swung the door open and staggered towards the door out of her confinement cell.

Mara's eyes looked down on the floor as Mary Jane passed her. We're friends, not enemies, Mary Jane. Please, let us be there for you.

Mary Jane kept walking until her door hit the handle. Freed's ruins scattered onto it and his voice rang out. "Recognized. Fairy Tail Member: Mary Jane Dreyar. Codename: Dark Empress. Class: B. Authorized by Erza Scarlet."

The ruins sunk into the door.

Her hand tightened on the handle.

"'Friends'?" Mary Jane's voice was bland. "You've got to be kidding me. I don't do 'friends'. There's enough wrong with me as it is." She pulled down on the handle. "No one wants to be friends with something like me."

She jerked the door open and left.

And Mara was left with grieving eyes.

°•°•°•°

The second Mary Jane stepped outside, Mira hugged her and showered her in kisses and affection.

"Oh, Mary Jane, you're okay!" Mira sobbed in relief. "Oh, thank goodness!" She looked at her daughter with a wobbly smile and tear-stricken eyes as she brushed stray strands from Mary Jane's face. "We were so worried," she confessed.

Mary Jane's eyes softened and looked down. Some would say in shame, but she looked down because she could not handle her mother's worry. "Sorry, Mom," she muttered lamely.

"Butterfly…" Laxus brought Mary Jane into a hug and kissed her forehead. "Thank God you're okay," he murmured.

Mary Jane's eyes shimmered with an unknown emotion. "Sorry, Daddy," she mumbled. That was all she could really say.

Laxus pulled away to give Mary Jane a fond look. "How are you doing?"

Mary Jane gave a noncommittal shrug.

Mira brought out Mary Jane's headphones and slipped them onto her daughter's head. "I thought this might help," she figured. She brought out the Sound Pod and pressed PLAY. She and Laxus watched as Mary Jane relaxed a little at the music playing.

"Thank you," Mary Jane murmured.

DRIP.

A single tear streaked her cheek.

DROP.

"Thank you," Mary Jane whispered again. "Thank you…"

Mira softened as she hugged Mary Jane. "We're here for you, sweetheart. Always and forever," she promised.

Mara wheeled herself out of the confinement cell and Orochi dashed towards her, inspecting her for injury.

Are you okay? he fretted. Did anything happen? How's your mind?

I'm fine, Chi-chi. That was a good sign, her using his nickname. Just a little tired.

Orochi nodded in understanding. Did it work? he wondered. Did you do it?

Barely, Mara sighed. She doesn't like anyone going through her mind. She nearly overpowered me with so many sensations and memories.

Her eyes went to Mary Jane surrounded by her parents and Orochi followed. Mara's eyes softened.

I don't know her full story even now, but her demons are eating at her mind more and more every day, Mara relayed to her brother. She needs to talk to someone about them, but… She sighed. It's improbable.

Orochi felt sadness. There's only so much we can do, Mar, he reminded.

I know, Mara assured. I just wish we could do more.

Laxus looked up from embracing his family and his eyes locked with Mara. He gave her a smile and put his finger to his lips before pushing them out and down towards her.

'Thank you.'

Mara smiled back and raise her left hand before putting it down as though she were bowing and putting it palm-up near her chest.

'You're welcome.'

Orochi gripped his hands on the wheelchair handles. Ready to go?

Mara nodded and Orochi began pushing her away from the intimate family moment.

---

Erza held out her hand. "Artegal's Sword!" she chanted. Teal Magic forged a sword in her hand before it shattered. A blade made out of the same metal of her armor was grasped in her hand and she wielded it with familiar ease. She charged at Olivia.

Olivia gritted her teeth as she unsheathed her claws and met Erza halfway. She swatted at Erza first who dodged, but jabbed an elbow under Olivia's ribs. Olivia growled rather than choked and threw out her claws, raking them against Erza's arm.

Erza flew back a few paces to inspect her armor and see that claws had been able to penetrate the adamantine. "No one has pierced my armor," she commented. "Impressive."

Olivia came at Erza with her claws and a battle roar. She managed to dig her claws into Erza's shoulder, but Erza shook her off. She drove her sword into Olivia's wing and managed to drive her into the roof of a building. She tried hard to pin down Olivia, but Olivia was vicious in her counterattack. She kicked Erza away, but did not give her time to plan her next move. She dug her claws into Erza's armor and pushed the two of them into the sky. She threw Erza away from her as her canons began to charge.

"Ferro Lasers!" Olivia chanted. Beams of platinum light shot from her shoulder canons and at Erza.

Erza dismissed her sword and brought her arm shields together. A Magic Barrier bubbled around her to defend her from the lasers.

Olivia kept up her lasers, but kept a safe distance away.

Erza increased the potency of her Magic Barrier.

She's smart to keep her distance from me. Tearing my armor is smart too. She's earned her name fairly.

Erza detached the arm shields from herself, but kept herself hidden. She allowed her hands conjure a ball of aqua that glowed and pulsated. She tore the ball into two halves, one for each palm, and looked at the set of twins. "Seek out my opponent," she told them. She held them out. "Go! Fleeting Adamant!"

The two balls shot from Erza's palms and exited the safety of the Magic Barrier. Either took a side of Olivia and surrounded her, dashing towards her.

Olivia lost her lasers and was quick to hold up her hands to defend herself when—

BOOM.

As Erza parted her shields, she saw the clouds of smoke and Magic. She frowned and hovered, but did not come closer to inspect anything. She searched for a sign of life, for Olivia to emerge. And when she saw a shadow moving, she knew it was her. "Impressive," she noted.

Olivia came out of the smoke with a grin and hardly a scratch on her. "Thank you," she appreciated. "Really threw me a curve ball. I almost didn't have time to defend myself."

Erza hummed. "But, you did," she commented. "Good work, Iron Maiden. My respect for you and the Metal Queen are even higher." She grinned. "But, let us end this!" She slammed her two shields together once more. As she broke them apart slowly, light was born between them. "Flash Cannon!" she chanted. She held her shields steady. Then, the light flooding between the shields burst forth and spiraled towards Olivia.

Olivia stared at the attack. Then, she smirked, showing off her fangs. "Oh, Aunt Erza… I'm sorry I had to do this…"

Erza watched as her attack sped towards her niece. She had a feeling Olivia would recreated a shield to block the attack, so she gathered energy for another attack.

Then, the strangest thing happened.

Her shields left her hands and floated away from her.

Erza's eyes widened. "What?" she gasped.

She watched in shock as the Adamantine Flash Cannon suddenly dispersed after a large explosion. Erza was able to shield herself from the smoke and chaos created, narrowing her eyes. However, when the smoke cleared, she lowered her arms.

Her eyes widened.

Her shields were protecting Olivia!

"How…?" Erza could not comprehend. "How did…?"

Olivia easily broke apart the shields, allowing them to flank her. She smirked at her aunt. "The city I was at was made of metal, you know," she explained. "And Chief Cheng was a special woman. She didn't just teach me how to expand my Iron Magic. She taught me about metal." Her smirk broadened. "And how to control all types of metal." Olivia slowly moved her right hand in a circle before abruptly pulling her hand into a fist.

Erza gasped as her armor broke free from her reign and glided over to Olivia. Erza fell to the ground, falling expertly onto her feet. She was left in a black sports bra and matching shorts. She stood back up and saw Olivia flying above her with the Adamantine Shield and armor within her grasp.

"She taught you telekinesis," Erza realized. She closed her eyes and hummed. "I see now. This whole time we have been fighting, you could have used your telekinesis to strip me of my armor." She looked back at her niece. "So, why didn't you?"

Olivia floated back to the ground with the armor and shield. When she touched ground, the armor and shield floated behind her. She answered, "Because I wanted to test my strength against you."

Erza was silent.

"When I was fighting you, I was pushing my limits," Olivia went on saying. "It felt…great. You're the greatest weapon specialist out there and I got to fight you. And fighting you showed me how much more I needed to improve on. But if I had used my Magic from the beginning, I—"

"That's enough."

Olivia silenced herself.

Erza smiled at her. "Fighting you made me see what I had to improve on as well. You were right to save this move until the end. The joy of battling a comrade does not come from instant victory. It comes from matching them step for step on equal ground. It comes from the fight itself. You've done well in your training these last months, Olivia, and I can see you have learned what fighting with a comrade means." She bowed. "I thank you for this battle."

Olivia bowed as well. "Thanks, Aunt Erza," she said back.

Both of them lifted themselves up.

Erza decreed, "And I think this battle is over. I forfeit."

Olivia's eyes widened. "But Aunt Erza…"

The ruins had already activated and the ground beneath Erza lit up in a glowing violet.

Erza waved off Olivia's protest. "Now that I know of your ability, I shall train until I may overcome it. But you have won this battle, Olivia. Fighting you while knowing your power wouldn't be too wise." She began to disappear as ruins crawled over her. "We will fight again soon. Until then, I wish you good luck in your future battles."

"Wait!" Olivia called. "Aunt Erza!"

Erza shook her head. "Farewell. Fight your comrades with pride." With a shimmer, she vanished alongside her Adamantine Armor.

Olivia looked at the spot with shock. "I…won…?" she whispered.

"You've done well in your training these last months, Olivia, and I can see you have learned what fighting with a comrade means."

She had seen the pride shining in her aunt Erza's eyes as she spoke those words. It was the look when the teacher realized their student had become the master.

Olivia tightened her fists as she broke free from her Iron Beast form. "I did it," she said quietly.

She dropped to her knees.

"I won," she whispered.

A few tears pattered onto the pavement.

I can't believe it…

"Fight your comrades with pride."

Olivia lifted her head to skies with tears in her eyes and a wide smile on her face.

I'm going to make you proud, Aunt Erza! I'll make sure I fight with my comrades with pride!

A shadow was in the corner of her eyes and Olivia turned her head to examine it. A strange smell hit her nose and she wrinkled it in disgust. It smelled positively revolting.

"What was that?" she wondered to herself.

---

The fight between Fire Mages was not used by fire. It was used by hand, foot, and mind.

A blow matched blow.

Jab was met with a block.

A low roundhouse kick was avoided with a jump.

A leopard fist was knocked away.

A high roundhouse kicked was met with a block.

A cross punch was met with a duck.

A butterfly kick was avoided with a backflip.

Grunt by grunt. Growl by growl. Hiss by hiss. They matched each other offensively and defensively, moving forward and backward whenever the other one did the opposite and predicting the other's moves.

Sweat clung to both of their brows as both leapt away from each other with fists made and panting on their lips.

"You've been training well, I see," Romeo breathed. "I can see your dad's technique in yours."

Igneel puffed. "Having some of my mom's Celestial Spirits train me helps too," he put in. He gave a fangy grin. "Don't tell me you're getting intimidated, old timer?" he taunted.

Romeo laughed. "Like I could get intimidated by a kid like you," he quipped back.

Igneel was about to joke back when he felt a strange presence. It felt new to him. It felt weird to him. It was dark and ominous and filled with dread and despair. He lost his fighting stance to take a sniff.

I haven't smelled this before. It smells…sad.

Romeo noticed Igneel pause for he lost his stance too and his face hardened. "What is it, Igneel?" he demanded.

Igneel took another sniff and wrinkled his nose. "The air," he told Romeo. "Something's wrong. I can smell it. Can't you feel it?"

Romeo paused, reading the area, before nodding. "Something's here. I don't know what, but its Magic isn't something I've experienced before."

Igneel's ears twitched as something moved. He turned his head only to catch a glimpse of something slinking into the shadows. "We're definitely not alone," he deemed lowly. "Get ready. I know they're here."

"Igneel, look up."

Igneel did so.

On the rooftops were creatures he had never seen. All of them were some sort of animal that looked as though cursed. A tiger of black and red with oversized fangs and spikes on its back. A large bird of sickly grin feathers and its beak needing to be clipped with large claws and an iron bar over its eyes. A gangly wolf with extended claws and leather wings attacked to its side, its curled tail split into two.

Romeo and Igneel leapt together, becoming back-to-back with one another, when they realized some of these creatures were on the ground, surrounding them with snarls and growls and hisses.

"These friends of yours?" Romeo asked, eyeing their new enemy.

"Not a chance," Igneel replied. "I'm not friends with familiars."

"'Familiars'?" Romeo repeated, confused.

Igneel crouched as one demented wolf dared to snap at him, baring its fangs. "Long story. I'll tell it after we show these guys who their masters are."

Romeo nodded. "Sounds like a plan."

Igneel grinned. "A plan that's really got my fire goin'," he stated as he lit up his fists.

Romeo grinned with him as he lit up with his fists. "Don't move until they do, Dragneel," he warned.

A large bird cawed at Igneel, making him bare his teeth in response. "No promises," he growled back.

And the two waited as they stared down their new enemies.

---

To say everyone was surprised at Erza's return was an understatement.

"Erza's back!"

"She lost?"

"What happened?"

As the murmurs rose, Galileo ran up to his aunt. "Livy won?" he wanted to verify.

Erza nodded. "She did," she confirmed.

Galileo crowed, pumping a fist. "Go, Livy!" he cheered.

Levy ran over to Erza as well, worry in her eyes. "Is she okay?" she asked Erza in a low voice.

Erza nodded. "She'll be fine, Levy. Don't worry," she soothed.

Levy sighed. "I know I shouldn't, but I—"

"Livy's fine, Mom," Galileo assured, swinging an arm around her shoulders. "Trust me. She's tougher than iron, just like Dad. Nothing can stop her."

Levy rolled her eyes, but smiled at her son. "When did you become the one to know what to say?" she teased. "Where's my little boy?"

Galileo puffed his cheeks at that. "I'm not a little boy! I'm a man!" he insisted.

Levy tapped her son's nose cheekily. "Yeah, yeah. You're my Iron Man," she teased.

Galileo nodded proudly at the title. "That's right!"

Luna walked over to the group nervously. "Aunt Erza," she started, "did you…see anything out there?"

Erza furrowed her eyebrows. "I didn't. Why? Is there something wrong?" she wondered.

Luna's eyes darted around. "I'm not sure, but I feel something bad is coming. It's making my Magic warm just like last time."

Galileo looked at Luna in puzzlement. "Wait. 'Last time'?" he echoed questioningly.

Levy looked at Luna with a hard look. "Is one of them here?" she asked.

"I think so," Luna said. "I'm not sure, but it has the same presence as Zagan. And I can feel smaller presences too."

"Familiars," Levy muttered. "We need to warn the everyone right away."

"What's going on?" Galileo demanded to know. "Who is 'Zagan'? And what are these 'familiars'?"

Levy was already moving with Luna on her heels. "No time to explain! We have to warn everyone before—!"

EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEENG. EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEENG.

The Lacrima Screen in the Fairy Tail guild flashed red as the warning siren went off.

And the whole guild froze.

---

Yea, Baby!

Dance with me! Dance with me! Just dance with me now!

Odorou

motto Party! Party! Like we just don't care!

Sawagou

•

Yea, Baby!

Dance with me! Dance with me! Just dance with me now!

Odorou

motto Party! Party! Like we just don't care!

Sawagou Yay!

---

TO BE CONTINUED…

Woah! What's happening to Magnolia? Who's the big bad demon who wants to take over? And who are the two the Master's talking about? Find out next time on Fairy Adventure!

---

Chibi-Luna peeks at you and gives a smile. "Hi, everyone! Are you ready for your Fairy Lesson!" She shuffles off. "I'm actually not teaching it to you, but a friend of mine is. Welcome Cane, Gambit of Fairy Tail!"

Chbi-Luna ushers Chibi-Cane onto the stage who whines. "Come on, beautiful, why me?" he complains.

"Because you said you owed me on, remember?" Chibi-Luna reminds. "And, I promised Silver and E I would meet them for lunch, so there." She puts her hands on her hips and gives him a look. "It's one lesson, Cane. Please?"

Chibi-Cane groans. "How am I supposed to resist you when you're that cute?" He shoos her. "Fine. Go have fun."

Chibi-Luna already takes off, leaving a cloud of smoke. "'Kay! Bye!"

Chibi-Cane sighs. "All right, let's get this over with because I have a date later," he grumbles. "Ever heard of the forbidden holder Magic called Charm?" He walks to the chalkboard and flips it over to. A picture of the arrogant Bora surrounded by love-struck women appears on the other side. "Charm is a type of Hypnos Magic. It hypnotizes people into a state of attraction. Basically, it has you so attracted to the person, you'll do things you never thought you'd do." He smirks. "But, I've never had to put women under a spell to make them attracted to me." He flips the board again and it shows a confused Lucy looking at Borus who was being harassed by Natsu. "You can break Charm if you know you're being used. But, some specialists speculate someone can break Charm if they see their soulmate. Interesting theory, huh?" He shoves his hands in his pockets and begins to walk away. "Anyways, that's pretty much it. Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got a hot date with a hot brunette."

Chibi-Cane walks off screen only to poke his head back. "Oh, next time, on Fairy Adventure, FAMILIAR WITH FAMILIARS!" He salutes you and gives you a saucy smirk. "Catch you guys later."