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!

19. Adventure 019

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, things turned up in the water with a sea battle: the king of the sea versus the demon of the sea! With Gale's plan and the Sea King's forces, there's nothing stopping Fairy Tail from winning the day! The sibling fight continued as Brika let it all out on Angelo and did she let it all out or what? Poor Angelo. Things will get better soon! Meanwhile, Gray remembered things from the past that were better left forgotten. But, fate's change as Natsu's control was put to the test once more. Still, there's always Lucy that will keep him calm. As Gajeel says, 'a king needs his queen'. It inspired Nashi to do the same and help Gary through his power struggle, but things didn't exactly go her way. Things weren't looking to good for our favorite angel-devil couple, but we can hope the future looks brighter. Back on the street, Mira found her daughter and isn't willing to let her go for anything - even if that means facing a group of familiars alone. Luckily, Laxus was there to save the day and bring his family to safety! Even if safety might have been compromised. Mary Jane finally spilled the beans on how a demon could have gotten into Magnolia and left Erza to deal with this new source of information. Hmm. I wonder how she will? But, back to the fight. With a little help from Lance, Igneel gained control over his new lightning powers and managed to injure the great sea demon Forneus. With Gale's plan put into action, Forneus is soon trapped in the cathedral and left with Luna to fight. With words of encouragement for the Sea King, Luna fends for herself and takes down the Sea Demon all by her lonesome! Woohoo! Attagirl, Luna! Save the day!

"We…won. We…did it…"

Oh, no, Luna! Oh, gosh. I hope she's okay! Now, who's going to explain to the priest a demon was inside his church?

---

The hut in the Eastern Forest was quiet. There was no Porlyusica there to be mixing herbs and starting on potions. There was no Wendy out in the forest, gathering new medicine and studying their herb and plant patches. There was no Elvin to watch them both work in secret and help Wendy with her rounds on injured animals. The Eastern Forest was only humming with the noise of nature, the thrum of cicadas and the whistles of birds, and nothing more.

Inside the hut of the Eastern Forest, potions simmered. An herbal tea had been left half-full. A few books were open, but nothing had been touched for at least an hour. But, in the patient room of it all lay a girl of blonde locks—Luna. She lay asleep with nothing less than a peaceful look on her face.

Hey, came a concerned grumble, you okay?

Luna's dram took her back to a place she felt she knew.

°•°•°•°

The valley was a vast space full of life and wondrous things. The black dragon had laid down in a clearing with his ruby eyes glared into her own. They were soft and loving.

I didn't mean to make you mad. Forgive me? came a plea.

A giggle. "You're cute when you grovel."

There was a woman there. She was young and in her prime and that was all the focus knew. Her blonde tresses were tugged into a loose braid and her clothes were a blinding white. Her hands stroked the nose of the black dragon, never shying away, never fearful.

There was a huff. Don't get used to it. I don't grovel.

She laughed. "I know, but I'd love you more if you did, my fierce dragon."

The dragon ruffled his wings as he nuzzled into the woman's touch, closing his eyes as he purred. I love you too, my pain-in-the-ass princess. You're what's worth flying for.

SNAP.

The dragon jerked back from the woman, eyes open and teeth bared. I smell hunters, he snarled. We must leave.

The woman did not seem pleased at that. "But, we—"

The dragon got to his claws and curled around the woman, laying down his head for her to mount him. A saddle had been made just for her with bags carrying their supplies.

We'll find a home to raise our thunder, avaraci. I promise. But, we have to go if I am to do the ritual.

The woman sighed as she mounted him. "Okay. Let's get out of here."

°•°•°•°

A breeze fluttered into the hut through the open windows. A few books had their pages ruffled and flipped. The tea rippled. The vase of flowers on the stand next to the bed had the flora dancing in the wind. Luna's nose wrinkled a little at the scent. Her eyes squeezed shut, then relaxed. Her hand with her bracelet twitched. Her eyes squeezed shut again before they cracked open. She blinked a few times as though trying to get the hang of the action. Her hands helped as she pushed up her upper body. The motion was slow and full of wincing, but she got into sitting position. Her eyes looked about the room.

A clock's minute hand ticked away.

A potion bubbled, bubbled, toiled, and troubled.

The carnations looked lovely in the sunlight.

Her eyes went to the side of her bed to capture a new specimen. Gale was settled in a chair. He was at an awkward angle, but tried to make the best of it. His arms had crossed on the mattress and his head lulled on them, allowing him to sleep. His body still sat on an uncomfortable visitor's chair, but he made it work, pulling it as close to the bed as possible. His clothes had changed. He was in a long-sleeved V-neck with the sleeves rolled up a little. A jacket was on the back of his chair. He had even acquired a new piercing. It was on his right side. An aquamarine scale had pierced his ear. It was nothing big, but it was noticeable and meant to be something unique. It fit well.

Luna studied him.

Gale…

Her hand raised and went to his hair. Her fingers sunk into his locks and began to groom them like an owner stroking her cat.

He must be so tired to fall asleep like this.

Luna stopped combing his hair for her hand to land on his face, brushing at his skin.

Gale let out a deep noise that sounded close to a purr. He stiffened as though stretching out and his eyes cracked open. They flashed up to Luna. A grin wove onto his face. "Looks like you've finally woken up, principessa."

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Maji desu ka SUKA!

•

Donna toki demo POJITIBU de

meccha KIRAKIRA hanasakasou

•

Kitto itsuka wa FAMIRII wo

Shoukai sasete ne

Urusakutte mo yurushite

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Gale shifted to move back in his seat, but his eyes stayed on Luna. "How are you feeling?"

"Okay," was all Luna could offer.

Gale raised an eyebrow. "Just 'okay'?" he probed.

Luna looked down as her fingers played with each other. "I don't know," she answered slowly. "It's all a bit hazy, but I can guess what happened." She sighed, downtrodden. "Looks like I fainted again."

"Well, after all that ass-kickin' ya did, yeah, looks like it," Gale agreed. He nodded to her bracelet. "And, you got some jewelry out of it."

Luna looked at her bracelet and her eyes softened. "That's right," she whispered as a finger ran over the jewel. "It was the Sea King. His name is…Shenlong. He told me to give Papa his respects." She looked up to look at Gale's ear ring. "He gave you something too."

Gale nodded as he tapped the scale. "Yup. Got another piercing," he grunted. "I like it. Your bro got himself a ring. Lance got another charm on his necklace." He smiled faintly. "Looks like our Sea King wanted to thank us for our services."

"I'll miss him." Luna admitted. "And, the others. But, somehow, I know I'll see them again."

Gale yawned and nodded. "I should hope so," he agreed. He leaned forward and his hands captured a lock of Luna's hair that fell out of place. She paused as he tucked it behind her ear, ruby searching chocolate. "How are you doing?" he had to know.

"I don't know," Luna confessed. "I feel…okay, I guess. It's like it hasn't set in yet."

Gale frowned. "Tired? Hungry?" He snorted to himself. "Well, you're always hungry."

Luna smiled a little and butted against his hand. "Shut up," she whined playfully. "I feel a little tired, but hungrier than anything." She looked around the room in a frown. "But…where's my family?"

Gale faltered a that. He had to pull away and look at the ceiling to spare himself seeing her emotions. "Luke is doing just great. He stepped out for a moment to get you food, actually," he reported. "And, your idiot brother is basically being an idiot. The hospital wanted to run tests on all of us who were in the cathedral. Lance has been cooperative, but Dragqueen? Not so much. He kept escaping the hospital to find Mary Jane ever since she beat his ass and went into hiding."

Luna laughed. "She did that?"

Gale chortled and nodded in confirmation. "She's a woman of her word," he had to admit. "She gave him a pretty bad beating. Didn't even yell at him or anything. Then, she let the doctors take Igneel away and she's been hiding off somewhere to avoid the dumbass trying to get back into her good graces."

Luna kept laughing. "Well, that seems just like him. But, what about my parents and Nashi? Are they doing okay?"

Gale swallowed. "Um, well, your pops is…" He hesitated to say another word.

Luna furrowed her eyebrows. "Gale? What is it?"

Gale gave a tired sigh. "Blondie, your dad is a bit on the run," he came out with.

Luna's eyes nodded. "What?" she breathed.

"Not on the run. Just in a tad bit of trouble," Gale amended. "Lord Draculos called him and our master in for a special meeting. He wanted all of us too, but the doctors won't give us clearance to leave."

Luna tipped her head. "But, wait… How is it we're not at the hospital?"

"That's the easy part," Gale told her. "When we came back, we knew you wouldn't be safe in the public eye. So, Igneel and Lance stayed behind while I took you to here. It's only been a day since you passed out, by the way."

Luna's eyes widened. "I've been unconscious for a whole day?" Those words came out in a gasp full of shock. "How could this happen?"

"You used a lot of energy with that attack," Gale reasoned. "You slayed a demon. It makes sense your recovery will take long."

Luna shook her head as a hand went to rub her arm.

Gale tried to switch the topic. "Well, you should know the Harvest Festival is tonight."

"Why?" Luna wondered.

Gale shrugged. "Mayor and Master decided tonight might be better since yesterday was filled with a bunch of fighting and terrified people," he explained. "Igneel, the Devil Woman, you, and me are banned from participating, though. Master said it's all about punishing us and shit."

Luna sighed, despondent. "I figured as much," she mumbled. "I was supposed to dance with E and Silver, but I guess it's for the best. I'd probably suck anyways."

Gale rolled his eyes. "No, you'd kick ass," he corrected. "You just need to get over your stage fright."

Luna looked away from him and out the window. "Maybe," was all she offered.

Gale disliked the tone of her voice and tried a different topic. "Your godmother and Madelia are in town for the festival," he tried.

Luna perked at that, whipping around to look at Gale in surprise. "The queen is here?" she gasped. "And, Miss Maddie?" Visible excitement grew on her face. "I didn't know they were coming!"

Gale had to grin at her happiness. "They weren't. Originally, anyways. But, Her Majesty and Her Lady were worried about the situation. And, apparently, both are eager to see you. Ain't it good news?"

"That's amazing news!" Luna enthused. "Oh, wow! I haven't seen Godmother in so long!"

Gale stood up, stretching out his arms. "Yeah, well, she seems happy to see you," he told her. He moved closer to the bed and climbed onto it. "Now, move over some. That chair is uncomfortable."

Luna did as he asked and made room, but gave him a look. "You didn't have to stay here, you know," she scolded.

Gale groaned as he kicked off his shoes and settled onto the bed. He wrapped an arm around her waist and brought her head to his shoulder. "Yeah, but who else is supposed to watch over you?" he murmured. "There ain't any princes here to wait for you to wake up. Just a dragon."

Luna smiled and closed her eyes. "That's okay. You being here is good enough for me," she told him. "I just hope everyone is okay. You never told me what happened with my Mama and Nashi."

Gale's eyes saddened. "Blondie… There's, uh… Look, there's something you should—"

BANG.

Gale and Luna's eyes flew to the door to see a shocked Aisha at the door. She looked at the duo in sheer happiness. "Luna! You're awake!"

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Fairy Adventure 019

Fantasia

パレードの時は今です！酔っぱらい、お祝い、そして答えを探して！

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Luna's eyes widened. "Aisha," she breathed, "you're still here?"

Aisha raced to the bed and plopped onto it, shoving Gale aside. "Of course I am!" she giggled. "I couldn't leave without seeing you one more time! And, I wanted to see Fantasia really badly and see you and Nashi perform!" She pouted. "Though, it sucks Jay had to leave and you and Nashi aren't performing."

Luna furrowed her eyebrows. "Wait… What happened to Jay and Nashi?" She turned her confused look onto Gale, but he could not look at her. She tried to catch his eye. "Gale…?"

Aisha burst in with an explanation. "Oh, well, Jay had to go home since his nana called and was really worried about him," she explained. "And, Nashi, well…" Even her eyes glazed over in sadness. "Well, she… She's not doing too great, I guess."

"What do you mean?" Luna demanded. She needed to know as her gaze went back and forth between Aisha and Gale. "What happened to Nashi? What's wrong with my sis?" That question was pressed at Gale.

Gale sighed, running a hand down his face. "Blondie…"

Luna got out of his hold to glare at him. "What happened to my sister?" she hissed.

"Gary happened," came a low growl.

Everyone looked to see Luke stepping into the patient room, a bag in hand, with Lucy behind him, holding a bag of food and cup of lemonade. Both of them had switched to fall apparel of sweaters and jackets, but they both looked different. Luke's eyes were not the same serene hazel as always. They were darkened. They were full of hatred and distrust. They were corrupted with negative emotions. Lucy looked tired. Her skin was paler than normal and eyes not as cheery with a red nose.

"Luke," Lucy tried to soothe, "please."

"Mama… Luke…" Luna breathed, relieved. "You're okay."

Lucy gave a weak smile as she approached her daughter. "Hey, Lu. We're happy to see you up and awake." She settled onto the visitor's chair and put the bag of food and the drink on the bedside table. "I brought your favorite," she explained, trying to be cheery. "Sorry we weren't here when you woke up. We wanted to get you food when you woke up and brought you a change of clothes."

"Thanks, Mama, but…" Luna looked at the furious Luke. "What happened to Nashi?"

Luke snarled. "Gary 'happened'."

Lucy tried to stop him. "Luke—"

Luke switched his dark glower to his sister. "He hurt her, Luna," he snapped. "He fucking took a chunk of her leg and nearly killed her!"

Luna was taken back. Her eyes widened with disbelief. "What…?" Her hands tightened around her sheets. "No way…"

Luke gave a sarcastic laugh. "And, guess who is trying to let him off the hook?" He shook his head. "He tried to kill her! Choke her death! And, he thinks he can get away with a simple, 'I'm sorry'?"

"Luke Jude, that is enough!" Lucy snapped sternly. "What Nashi does isn't yours to decide. She is a legal adult."

"And, so is he!" Luke snapped back. "How can you be okay with this? He tried to kill your own daughter and you're going to let him get away with this?" He dropped the bag and stormed out. "Screw this!" And, he was gone.

Lucy coughed as she recovered from her shock. "Don't mind him, Lu. He's just…upset," she tried to reason.

"Is it true?" Luna whispered. She looked at her mother woefully. "Is it, Mama? Is what he said true?"

Lucy took a big breath and let it all out. "Baby…"

Gale shared a look with Aisha. "We should probably leave you to it," he said slowly, urging Aisha to agree.

Aisha nodded as she got off the bed, though her worry did not fade. "Yeah. I'll just be…" She pointed to the door as she slipped away.

Gale moved to get off the bed, but a hand stopped him. He looked at Luna for answers, but Luna was already looking at her mother, eyes broken.

"Mama, please, tell me he's lying," Luna prayed in a whisper nearing a cry. "Please."

Lucy leaned down, her hands covering her head. She gave a shaky sigh. "It's true." Two words. Two fatal words.

"No," Luna breathed. "No…" Her hand trembled. Her eyes glistened. Her breathing became shaky. "You're lying. Gary wouldn't do that. He loves Nashi."

Lucy wiped her hands down her face to give Luna a sad look. "He does, Lu. He loves her, and that's—" She broke off as a sob choked her words. She closed her eyes and took in a wobbly inhale. "That's why it's hard for them to go through this." She took a wheezing inhale and tried to keep her tears back. "Nashi, um… She's—… She forgave Gary for what happened. She doesn't blame Gary at all, but—…" A tear streak Lucy's cheek. "Oh, God, Gary… He helped Nashi with her panic attack—"

"'Panic attack'?" Luna's voice rose in alarm. "But, that hasn't happened to her since—"

"A year and a half ago, I know," Lucy sniffled. "Gary has been refusing to come out from the guild confinement area and hasn't been eating. He tried to turn himself into the Council as a threat to society."

Luna shook her head. "This isn't happening," she chanted. "This isn't happening…"

Lucy wiped away her tears and nodded. "Yeah, so, Nashi has been trying to get him to talk to her, but her wounds are completely healed. She has a bit of scar on her leg, but she's good. She promised to come and see you soon." She stood up and rubbed away more tears. "I, um, just need a minute, okay, baby? I'm going to call on your papa and make sure his meeting is going okay." She gave a quick smile as she leaned towards Luna to kiss her forehead and caress her skin. "We all love you, baby. We're right here for you and we're so proud of you," she whispered. Her gaze switched to Gale's. "Please, watch my baby," she asked for.

Gale nodded. "I promise."

Lucy nodded and walked out of the patient room, rubbing away more tears and sniffling.

"Gary…hurt…my sister…" Luna tried to wrap her head around it, but it seemed impossible.

Gale took her into his arms. "I know, principessa," he murmured. "Ho só."

"He didn't mean it," Luna said. She sniffled as she nuzzled into Gale's hold, a hand gripping on his shirt. "He didn't mean it. He loves Nashi."

"Being under a demon's influence will make you do things you never thought you would do," Gale reasoned. "Nashi and Gary will work this out together. We just have to let them."

Luna nodded, but said nothing else. She just allowed silent tears to touch her face. And, Gale kept quiet, letting her cry for her sister and for Gary.

---

For Erza to be in front of the councilmen of the Magic Society, that meant dangerous trouble and not the fun kind. For Erza to be in Draculos' office, it meant something deeper. It could mean anything. It meant a mystery.

Erza sat in the chair given to her with tea in her hand. Draculos did not sit. He stared out his floor-to-ceiling office window.

Erza took a sip and swallowed. She set the cup down on the desk before sitting back.

"Guild Master Erza Fernandes," Draculos began, "I assume you know why you are here."

"I do," Erza confessed.

"And you understand why you are not in front of the council?"

Erza's gaze steeled. "I do."

"Good." Draculos turned around to settle in his desk chair. He looked at Erza with his piercing eyes. "Was she successful?"

Erza nodded. "Entirely," she praised.

Draculos smiled a little. "So powerful for one so young. And that goes for this next generation." His frown returned. "Nevertheless, I issue you a warning. I have kept this matter between myself and Warrod, but should Wolfheim catch wind of this, he will undoubtedly start a petition and campaign to end Fairy Tail for good."

Erza nodded again. "I understand."

Draculos nodded back. "I'm glad. There has been much about Fairy Tail people praise and despise. You must not give in. I have given the press a DA-Notice number five. While the queen cannot make it mandatory, I can so long as it is magical. There will be no word of this outside of Magnolia," he explained. "Regarding the skirmish between the captains and their divisions, I take it you had nothing to do with it?"

Erza was silent.

"Captain Sterling-Armstrong responded the same way." Draculos sighed. "She hates most Mages, but she has a respect for both you and I. Do not take advantage of it."

"Of course not, sir," Erza promised.

Draculos lifted an eyebrow. "In regard to the welfare of Magnolia and her people, give me a report."

"The entire city is healing and doing better than ever," Erza promised. "The Harvest Festival is continuing today and tonight will be the Fantasia Parade."

Draculos hummed. "And the ones who got themselves involved against your orders?"

"They have been properly punished," Erza promised. "The doctors are running some more tests on Igneel and Lance. Luna has been kept from the public eye."

"What about that Devil boy? Gary Fullbuster." Draculos tested the name. "It's been a while since I've last seen him."

Erza softened. "He's not doing well," she disclosed. "He's attempted to turn himself in on multiple occasions and still hasn't recovered emotionally. He has agreed to therapy."

"Good," Draculos praised. "He needs time to accept what has happened. I will ensure he not be taken into the council. Not after that last horrid time." His piercing eyes softened at the memories. "No person deserves that fate."

"Exactly," Erza agreed. "And Luna?"

Draculos gave a shake of his head. "No one has connected her yet. I will let you know should something happen."

"Thank you, Lord Chairman, sir."

Draculos nodded. "You are dismissed, Guild Master Erza. We will be in touch."

Erza stood up and bowed before exiting the room. The moment the door closed, Draculos closed his eyes and let out a sigh. "I want you to ensure not a word gets out about the secrets of Natsu and Luna Dragneel nor Gary's situation," he commanded. "Continue your scouting. No contact."

Silence.

The impression on the couch lifted and disappeared.

Draculos pressed a button on his Communications Lacrima. "Miss Monics, send in Mister Dragneel."

°•°•°•°

Erza walked away for Iris to shakily stand up and bow to her. "Have a nice day, Misses Fernandes," she prayed.

"You too, Miss Monics," Erza spoke. She approached the doors where two guards opened them for her. She went out into the hall. There was no activity outside. The hall was sandstone flooring and walls alternating with floor-to-ceiling windows. The doors shut behind her and Erza closed her eyes, letting out a sigh.

Well, that could've gone better.

"Master Erza?"

Erza opened her eyes and looked to the right. Her eyes widened. "Lord Arcadios," she breathed.

Arcadios had changed over the years. He was older with his once mane of hair trimmed down to a simple buzz cut with hair down the middle and slicked back. His dark hair had gray over the years, but still looked good on him in a salt-and-pepper way. His beard had not been trimmed, only had silver streak in it. He wore glasses now, but that did not stop his eyes from being firm and commanding attention. He had traded in his armor for his civilian suit that told his rank. His white coat and golden epaulettes. His badges of honor were worn with bride and his sacred sword never left his side.

⌜HOUSEHOLD OF THE ROYAL FAMILY

Name: Arcadios

Occupation: Aide-de-Camp to the princess, Chief of the Cherry Blossom Holy Knight Squadron

Likes: white lilies Dislikes: pop music

Special Note: Arcadios might act as a secretary to Her Highness, but he is so much more! ⌟

Arcadios gave a slight bow. "It is good to see you, Master Erza. You look well," he regarded.

"You as well," Erza agreed, nodding.

Arcadios glanced at the large doors. "You visited His Lord, the Magic Speaker, I see." His eyes flashed to Erza. "Not many go into the chairman's office. And not many see the chairman."

Erza raised a cool eyebrow. "Not to be offensive, Lord Arcadios, but what brings the secretary of Her Majesty to the Fiore branch of the Magic Council?"

"Business with His Lord," Arcadios said just as coolly. "It regards only trivial matters, but His Lord, Her Majesty, and I felt necessary to communicate. Regarding you, Master Erza, is everything okay?"

Erza made sure her tone and eyes were guarded. "Everything goes well in Magnolia," she assured. "Our Fantasia parade tonight will mark the end of our Harvest Festival activities."

Arcadios raised an eyebrow this time. "Weren't your festivities supposed to end last night?"

Erza did not even flinch. "We extended it this year to honor Her Majesty and Her Lady's arrival."

Arcadios nodded. "Ah. I see." He took steps to the door. "Well, Master Erza, I wish you and Magnolia a happy harvest."

Erza did not move. "Thank you, sir."

As Arcadios passed her, he whispered, "Blue nineteen." And, he went to the doors where the outside pair of guards opened them for him.

Erza stood stock-still at the words.

'Blue nineteen', huh?

She began to walk away.

Which means the meeting tomorrow night at that pub…

Her eyes darkened.

…is about them.

---

KNOCK. KNOCK. KNOCK.

"Mister Dragneel, I'm coming in," came a small voice. The nurse opened the door to the hospital room, eyes on her clipboard. "Now, Mister Dragneel, I have your results and—" She looked up.

She paled.

The window was open, the bed was empty, and the curtains were fluttering.

She groaned. "Not again…"

°•°•°•°

Igneel whooped as he walked down the street. He wore no suggestive hospital gown. He was back in his clothes of a long-sleeve shirt and a vest and his shorts and sandals, his scarf wrapped around his neck and a beanie on his head. "Finally! Out of that stuffy hospital!" He stretched his arms only to catch sight of his ring and his hospital band. He retracted the hand to rip off the band and allowed it to fall onto the ground. "That takes care of that," he muttered. He looked at his ring. It was a simple band of silver outlining with aquamarine at its center. It glinted in the light, making it seem like he was back by the sea.

This ring… Gale said it was a gift from the Sea King. Maybe he was right. It does feel like the Sea King.

Igneel hummed, tipping his head.

I wonder… Was he—?

"Hey! You!"

Igneel looked back to see exhausted male nurses up the street. One had to rest against a restaurant window while the other pointed angrily at him. "Get back here! You haven't been legally discharged yet!"

Igneel's eyes widened. "Uh-oh." And, he sprinted away.

"Hey! Get back!" came a wail.

Igneel did not seem to care about the traffic of the sidewalk and, instead, he barreled right through it. People yelled at him, growled at him, or mainly gave him huffing looks, but he just needed to get away. He ducked into a restaurant. It was a bistro and busy at that.

"Hey! I think he went in there!" came a shout.

Igneel did not take his chances and danced his way around the bistro. A waitress with a large order gave a scream as he nearly crashed into her. He gave her a quick smile as he jumped on a table to avoid her. He hopped from table to table with the people at them screaming and cursing his name.

"Whoops! Sorry! Oh, man, is that pizza? Sorry! Sorry!"

Igneel got to the bar and hopped over it. When he got up, a bartender looked at him in shock. Igneel grinned. "Hey there…"

"We found him!"

Igneel and the bartender looked to see the nurses had infiltrated the bistro with glares centered on their loose patient.

Igneel laughed. "Looks like I gotta go so, bye-bye!" He pushed bast the bartender to go into the kitchen. The head chef and his many assistants were appalled he came into their sacred haven. Igneel managed taking pieces of food on his way as he danced around the cook. "Excuse me! Sorry to bother! You mind if I have that? Thanks!"

The backdoor of the bistro burst open as Igneel came out with three scones and a sandwich crammed into his mouth. He jumped the steps and swallowed his meal. He belched fire. "Whoa-ho. My bad," he excused, waving away the smoke. He looked over to see three waiters taking a break, one smoking and the other to in shock. Igneel walked over to them. "Yo! Nice to meet you!" He went up to the smoker and took the cigarette.

"Hey, kid! That's mine!" the waiter snapped.

Igneel dropped the cigarette and smashed it with his shoe. "Smoking is a dangerous thing. Let the Fire Mages deal with smoke, okay?"

"Ay! It's the kid!"

Igneel looked back to see the red face of one of the cooks. Igneel waved. "Yo! I'll be taking off now!" And, he dashed away.

"Get back here! You need to pay!"

Igneel zipped down another alleyway lined with garbage bins, hanging laundry, and a stray cat. He hopped up on the garbage bin and jumped from bin to bin, startling a cat trying to get food. He found a fire escape and jumped on the bin directly underneath it. He got the handle of the fire escape and pulled it down without a hitch. From there, life got easier for him. He climbed his way from one platform to the next, but made sure to cover his tracks.

Finally, Igneel ended up on the roof. He did not lose his stamina and made a running start before he jumped off the roof and onto the next one. He kept going, surprising those from below and confusing those who only saw a shadow move. He ended up skidding to a halt when he could not jump to an abandoned building with two stories above him. Instead, he looked down to settle for a fire escape balcony. He took a few steps back, then he ran and jumped. His landing was shaky as he got on the platform, but he got there. From there, he peered downward. The alley below was dry and no sign of footsteps approached him.

Igneel grinned.

Perfect.

He swung his legs off the railing to sit on it. From there, he jumped on the wall. He pushed himself from wall to railing until he landed on the ground in a crouch. He stood up and brushed off the imaginary dirt. "Figured they couldn't keep up with the awesome Igneel," he smirked. He turned around and began to walk when he bumped into someone.

"So, you escaped again?"

Igneel backed up to see Nashi smirking down at him. She had changed from yesterday's clothes into comforting leggings and boots with warm sock that went to nearly touch her knee. She wore a Fairy Tail sweatshirt in blue with the last name ANGEL written in pink on the back and the Fairy Tail insignia on the front. Even her hair was pulled into a messy bun.

Igneel gave a sheepish grin. "Um… Oh, hey, sis… Didn't…see you there?"

Nashi rolled her eyes and brushed past him. "Come on. Let's get you fed."

Igneel turned to follow her when his eyes caught onto small limp in Nashi's leg.

And, his eyes saddened.

°•°•°•°

They ended up at the Orange Palace. It was one of those hole-in-the-wall places that might have looked shady to most, but the food was quality. The place focused on hibachi and sushi, a fusion restaurant. Mikuni Shin ran the sushi bar and was cleaning his knives.

Nashi and Igneel were eating their steak and shrimp hibachi with chopsticks and spice mayonnaise and yum-yum sauce, sharing shrimp tempura between them.

Nashi pointed her chopsticks filled with rice, broccoli, and shrimp at Igneel. "You have to stop running from the hospital," she told him. "I got a call from your doctor about your escape."

Igneel groaned. "It's so boring there," he complained. He pouted as he picked at his food. "Besides, MJ hasn't even visited me once."

Nashi snorted. "Yeah. And, she beat your ass too, didn't she?"

Igneel looked away as he chewed his mouthful. "That was her way of saying she missed me," he mumbled.

Nashi swallowed her mouthful. "You need to get over yourself and stay at the hospital like Mama told you," she scolded. "You know she's stressed about Papa's meeting and what happened with Lu. You can't stress her like this."

Igneel swallowed and nodded sagely. "Yeah. I know," he muttered. "But, what about you?"

Nashi raised an eyebrow. "What about me?"

"You and Gary," Igneel started, his eyes flicking hesitantly onto his sister. "How, um, are you two?"

Nashi sighed, setting down chopsticks. "He still won't come out of his little prison, the stupid dog," she grumbled. "He's only let Mara in for therapy, but that's it. He won't even let his only family in or me. It's getting frustrating."

"How's the leg and neck?" Igneel asked quietly.

"They're fine," Nashi promised. "My leg will be good as new soon and my neck is healing a bit slower. I'll have scars, but hey. I've still got my looks."

"More like you don't have any good qualities," Igneel muttered.

Nashi gripped her chopsticks as her eyes glinted murder. "Want to say that again, you little shit?"

Igneel sweatdropped as he gave a shaky smile, waving his hands. "Sorry! Sorry! I couldn't help it!" His expression simmered down into one more solemn. "But, seriously, Nash. You had a panic attack."

Nashi lowered her chopsticks. "Yeah? So, what?"

Igneel played with his food. "Well… You haven't had one in a little while…"

Nashi's mouth dipped into a frown. "I know that… What are you getting at?"

"I just think that maybe…" Igneel tried to word it correctly. "Do you, maybe…want to talk about why you get panic attacks?"

Nashi was silent.

"I mean I don't know exactly what happened down there," Igneel backpedaled. "But, it triggered something in you, Nash. And…I know you haven't had panic attacks in a long time…"

"Gary didn't hurt me."

Igneel looked up to see Nashi staring softly at her food.

"He wouldn't hurt me, Igneel," Nashi insisted. Her eyes met her brothers. "He didn't know what he was doing and I know he's sorry."

"That doesn't make it okay," Igneel tried to argue.

"I know it doesn't!" Nashi blurted. "But… He didn't mean it, okay? He wouldn't hurt me. He's not like him."

Igneel's eyes steeled at that. "'Him'?" he echoed. "Who are you talking about?"

Nashi shut her eyes. "Nothing. It slipped. I was talking about the demon, okay? Gary is nothing like him."

"Nashi…" Igneel said slowly. "Be honest with me. Why did you start having panic attacks two years ago?"

"It's nothing, okay? Just drop it," Nashi snapped. Her eyes opened. Hickory seared into onyx. "I told you. The job freaked me out. It's over."

"It's obviously not if you get a panic attack now," Igneel retorted. "Whatever happened between Gary and you triggered it. You know that, right? If it connects to two years ago—"

"We're here to talk about your issues, not mine," Nashi yelled at him. "Stop being such a little baby and running from your doctor! Mama's stressed, Papa's meeting with someone from the Magic Society, and you and Lu got back from nearly dying out there. Think about yourself, okay? Don't worry about me!" She got up and gathered her wallet and keys. Angrily, she stormed away.

Igneel snarled as he got up. "You can't just pretend it didn't happen!" he shouted after her.

Nashi gave him the middle finger as she slammed open the door and left.

Igneel fell back into his boot seat and sighed. "Dammit," he cursed softly. "I'm sorry, Nashi." He flagged down a waiter. "Hey. Can I get some boxes and the cheque? There's somewhere I need to go."

---

Nashi set herself on the street, grinding her teeth and she thought angrily to herself.

Who does he think he is anyways? I'm his big sister. He shouldn't be worrying about me. Not after the idiot nearly kills himself and Lu.

She accidentally bumped shoulders with a man and stumbled. "Sorry, sir," she mumbled. She was about to move away when a hand grabbed her arm and forced her back.

The man looked to be in his twenties and had a coffee stain on his blue dress shirt. "You're paying for this," he growled.

Nashi growled back and got out of his grip. "Fine. Whatever you want." She took out her wallet and offered jewel to him. "Is this okay?"

The man shook his head as he stepped closer to Nashi, his eyes looking at Nashi up and down. His expression changed from raging to surprised. "Wait… You're that Angel of Fairy Tail, right?" He whistled. "Heard you were banging the Iron Man and Ice Devil of Fairy Tail. That true?"

Nashi bared her teeth. "It isn't." That was a half-truth. "What's it to you?"

"My buddy told me the Angel of Fairy Tail is just looking for a demon in the sheets to keep her sated," he snickered.

"I get off on my own just fine," Nashi sneered. She began to turn away. "Have a nice day."

A hand gripped her own and forced her back. She tried to struggle, but she was shoved into an alleyway before much damage could be done. She tried to whip around. "You sick—!" She gave a low groan as her front was smashed into the alley wall. She hissed as she pushed herself off the wall, but a weight pressed her against it.

"Get off me!" Nashi snapped.

Warm breath puffed her neck. "Come on, Angel," he purred. "We all know little miss Angel isn't a pure virgin anymore." Hands slipped to Nashi's thighs. "Just relax," he murmured.

Nashi wriggled, trying to get herself free. "'No' means 'no', you stupid asshole!" Pink Magic covered her body and flashed.

The man gave a startled grunt as he staggered back. His eyes were wide, but glazed over. He could not see. He shakily touched his wide eyes. "What did you do to me?"

Nashi turned around with watery eyes full of hatred. "You aren't permanently blind, asshole. Just temporary. Stay away from me."

The man gritted his teeth as he stumbled forward. "Come here, you stupid bitch!"

"Is there a problem here?"

Nashi looked up to see Orochi standing at the alley entrance with grocery bags in his hands. His eyes only looked at the blind man in nothing but coldness.

The man tried to point at Nashi. "This bitch here blinded me!" he cried.

Orochi set down his groceries. "I see. And why would she do that?"

"She was all over me, man," the man explained. "Whores just want it all the time."

Nashi growled. "You—!"

"No, Nashi, he's right."

Nashi looked to see Orochi slipping off his glove as he approached the man. "Whores just want it all the time. And, you, sir"—he put a finger on the man's forehead—"are a whore."

The man's eyes rolled to the back of his head and he fell to the ground.

Nashi's eyes widened. "Chi-chi…" she whispered. "What did you…?"

Orochi stood up, putting his glove back on. "Just something to make him sleep, nothing serious." He looked at Nashi in concern. "Now, are you all right?"

Nashi crossed her arms. "I'm fine," she promised.

Orochi shook his head as he went to his groceries. "Come with me."

"To where?" Nashi questioned.

"Back to my place," Orochi said as he scooped up his bags. "Justin is gone. I'll call Ellie so she can bring you a change of clothes. You can use my shower too."

Nashi tried to protest. "I don't—"

Orochi gave her a soft look. "You're crying, Nana," he told her.

Nashi touched her cheeks. Surprise got to her as she pulled her fingers away to see tears on them.

When…? When did I…?

"Let's go to my place," Orochi coaxed.

Nashi gave a small nod. "Okay."

°•°•°•°

Orochi opened the door to his and Justin's apartment and nodded for Nashi to go in. "Go on."

Nashi trekked into the apartment and took off her boots. "Thank you," she mumbled.

Orochi closed and locked the door. "Don't worry about it."

The living room in Justin and Orochi's shared apartment was nothing big or special. There was carpet on the ground that was surprisingly still clean. There was the main couch, long and dark grew, but with colorful throw pillows. And then there was an antique grandfather's chair they had been given by the old owners. The coffee table had a few magazines on it. The Lacrima-Vision hid itself inside a built-in bookcase with movies and books and pictures placed on shelves. There was a bar as well that opened up into their colorfully-decorated kitchen.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

« This is Justin and Orochi's apartment. With Justin's avid sense of style and Orochi's cleaning tendencies, their apartment has never once been in a state of mess. »

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Orochi put the groceries down. "Follow me."

Nashi did so, and Orochi let her into his room. It was nothing special. His back wall was white, but the others were purple and filled with pictures and sketches and plans of the future. Nashi stopped at one. It was a sketch of a bar named Dragon Tail. It was roughly done, but still looked amazing.

"Still want to have your own bar?" Nashi teased.

Orochi popped out of his bathroom. He smiled at the picture. "Someday," he said. "And, I told you. It'll be much more than a bar." He came out of the bathroom. "Towels are on the counter. I gave you a shirt and shorts of mine to change into for now, if that's okay?"

Nashi offered Orochi a weak smile. "Thanks, Chi-chi."

Orochi brought Nashi in for a hug. "I'm just looking out for you, Nana. Gary would have my ass if I didn't," he teased.

Nashi laughed at that.

"He loves you, Nashi," Orochi promised. "He just…needs some time. I get how he feels."

"I just want him to talk to me," Nashi whispered. "Isn't that weird? Usually, I love it when he leaves me alone, but I just—"

"Shhh, Nana," Orochi hushed. "You're both hurting. Let him come to you on his own terms."

Nashi shut her eyes as she snuggled into Orochi's hug. "Okay."

Orochi ruffled Nashi's hair and pushed her towards the bathroom. "Shower," he commanded. "I'll start something for you and call Ellie." And he shut the door behind him.

Nashi went into the bathroom. Nothing special besides the violet and maroon and white theme continuing. She shed her clothes and went to turn on the water. It was not long for the shower to be steaming hot. She stepped in and flinched at the hotness of the shower. It took her a few moments for her to get used to the warmth to stand underneath the the spray.

Her head bowed.

DRIP.

A tear went down her face.

DROP.

More tears joined her.

Shaky hands hugged her body.

I'm so pathetic, she thought. I'm so weak.

And, that was how she ended up crying in the shower.

---

Mary Jane rolled her eyes as she held up the ribbon. "Is this really necessary?"

Ena cut the ribbon. "Never disrespect ribbon," she scolded. "Your costume looks perfect."

"Not like I can wear it," Mary Jane muttered. "I'm grounded from being a Fairy Tail cheerleader, remember?"

Ena grinned as she worked on the skirt of the dress. "Doesn't mean your butt can't look great in this," she reminded.

"You know, I'm glad I can't do this stupid parade," Mary Jane decided. "They wanted me to be a stupid princess trapped in a tower."

"And, Igneel, obviously, would play your charming prince," Ena sing-sang. She batted her eyelashes at Mary Jane. "Romantic, no?"

"No," Mary Jane said dryly. She put down the ribbon. "This is pissing me off. I'm going home."

Ena waved her off. "I'll send someone to deliver this when I'm finished," she promised. "You'll shine like a goddess!"

"I hate everything," Mary Jane growled as she put on her headphones. She came out of Fairy Tail to stomp down the street. Everyone seemed excited for the parade with flyers passing around and people preparing themselves for their final run of their part.

This is so stupid. It's a parade. Who cares? I just want to go home.

She crossed the street with other pedestrians.

Can't believe they wanted me in a stupid tower with Igneel being Mister Prince Charming. That moron nearly got himself killed and they want me to be fake, smile, and wish for him to rescue me. More like he's the pussy princess that needs me to rescue him. Dumbass.

Mary Jane got herself to the suburbs of Magnolia without a problem. Her neighbors told her merry helloes and wondered what part she would play, but rudely ignored them. She just wanted to be home.

"Oh, my goodness, Mary Jay-Jay!" came a squeal.

Mary Jane kept walking.

Not this bitch again.

The girl in question came up to Mary Jane with a beaming smile and obviously fake lashes. She looked a little older than Mary Jane, but not by much. Even so, she was more developed than Mary Jane in her chest and flaunted however much she could. She looked at Mary Jane through her dark eyes as she chewed on her gum.

"I haven't seen you out of the house in so long!" she squealed. "We haven't hung out in, like, five-ever!"

"It's forever," Mary Jane corrected in a grunt. "Quit the fakeness, Molly. You're tacky, and I hate you."

⌜MAGNOLIA TOWN

Name: Molly

Age: 16

Occupation: First year at Kānēshon High School

Likes: models Dislikes: Lacrima games

Special Note: Molly is the daughter of Mary and niece of Amelie, both women friends of the Fullbuster family! But, did you know Molly has a mega crush on a Fairy Tail member? ⌟

Molly gave a loud laugh. "Mary Jay-Jay, you're uber cute!" She looked around. "So, like, where's Iggy? He told me he'd call, but he hasn't whatsoever." She pouted as she whipped out her Compact and checked her messages. "I tried messaging him, but he won't respond."

"Probably blocked you since he thinks you're fake too," Mary Jane muttered. She went up the sidewalk to her house.

Molly followed her. "You should tell Iggy to call me. He hangs out with you more than me!"

"That moron pisses me off and so do you," Mary Jane grumbled as she unlocked her door. She roughly opened it. "Go to your boy-toy and get over Igneel. Stop talking to me." She entered the house and slammed the door.

Molly's muffled voice chirped from the outside. "Kay-kay, text ya later, Mary Jay-Jay!"

Mary Jane rolled her eyes as she went to the steps and climbed them. "Was I not clear to her I hate her existence? Is this punishment for me? Is it?" She went to the second floor and went to her room. She opened the door and stopped. Her eyes narrowed. "Oh, no."

Igneel smiled from his place in the bed with a container in his hands, waving his chopsticks. "I found you!"

Mary Jane kicked off her boots and fell to the floor, laying on her rug. "I give up," she grunted.

Igneel frowned as he set down his food. "You okay, MJ?"

Mary Jane turned her head for one eye to glare at him. "Call Molly and then ask me that," she snapped.

Igneel winced. "Not her again," he whined. "She smells really weird and her laugh hurts my ears."

"Tell her that," Mary Jane commanded, putting her face down.

"I can't. That's mean," Igneel reminded. He slithered onto the floor and his hands went to Mary Jane's back. He warmed them a little before massaging her back. "Can't you tell Molly—?"

"I did. She doesn't care. Don't touch me."

Igneel ignored the last statement. "Fine. I'll have to break her heart," he sighed, resigned.

"Good. Break her soul and crush her spirit," Mary Jane grumbled. "Do it to little, miss fashionista too while you're at it."

Igneel laughed a little. "Guess she told you what our float was, huh?"

Mary Jane abruptly got up and went to her bed. "It pissed me off," she snarled. She laid in her bed and curled away from him. "I'm already pissed at you. And they want me to be your little goddess or princess or whatever? I don't think so."

Igneel hummed thoughtfully. "'Goddess'," he tested. "I like it."

"I hate it," Mary Jane told him flatly. "Fantasia is stupid. I just want to stay in my room and listen to music."

"Then, let's do that," Igneel suggested eagerly. He went to kneel beside the bed. "Come on, let's do it. We can get some food and stay here. How about that?"

"I don't like you. So, my night would still be ruined," Mary Jane reminded him.

"I'll be good, I promise," Igneel swore. "I'll do everything to make it so your night is still good for you. Please?"

"Get – out," Mary Jane spat.

Igneel sighed as he got up. He brushed himself off. "Fine, fine. I'll return with food," he promised. He grabbed his empty container and chopsticks. "I'll be back soon!" he promised as he left.

"Everything will be locked!" Mary Jane yelled back. All she got was laughter and footsteps climbing downstairs. She groaned as she went onto her back. "I need to get stronger locks."

---

Gary did not look like himself as he lay waste in that prison cell. His body was paler and grayer than before. His eyes were shown to be haunted and full of memories he never wanted. He rested against the wall of his prison in his own sweat and dirt, not even bothering to change into the clothes set out for him. The food he had been given was untouched. He was a man who deserved punishment. He deserved to starve. He deserved to suffer.

KNOCK. KNOCK. KNOCK.

The door opened for it to be Silver and Gray with a new tray of Juvia's food and new clothes. "Hey, bro," he greeted weakly. "We brought you some food and new clothes."

Gary was silent.

Both came closer to the cell. Silver set down the food and clothing and swapped them for the old while Gray approached his son, touching the bars of the prison.

"How you holdin' up?" Gray murmured.

Gary was silent.

Gray sighed. "Still quiet, huh? I see. You've been through a lot."

Gary did not answer.

Gray softened. "We worry about you, you know? Not talking. Not eating. Not sleeping. Your mom said she heard you vomiting just a little after midnight. And, you refuse to talk to Nashi. Mara says you have been cooperating in her mental therapy, but you threw up right after it." He squatted to Gary's level and tried to meet his eyes. "What's wrong, frostbite?" he whispered. "I know this is hard for you. I know seeing Nashi like that hurt you. But, she needs you. We need you."

Gary said nothing.

Gray stood up and patted the bars. "We ain't givin' up on you, frostbite," he promised. "Come on, Silver."

Silver hesitated to follow his father. He looked back at his brother who lay broken and dazed. He crept to the cell and wrapped his hands around the bars. "Hey, Gary? You always told Julia and me that when the worst happens, we can't shut down. We have to keep moving forward. So, please. Take your own advice, okay?" He offered his older brother one last look before hurrying at his father and out of the area.

The doors closed.

A tear slid down Gary's cheek.

°•°•°•°

When Gray and Silver emerged from the basement and to the main floor, Juvia and Julia looked at them in hope.

"Anything?" Juvia asked.

Gray shook his head. "Nothing yet," he confessed. "He's still uncooperative, but we can't push him."

Julia glared at the basement doors. "He's being stupid," she growled. "He's not even the one who got hurt. Nashi did. Why is he acting like the victim?"

"Julia!" Juvia gasped, appalled. "Juvia knows this is hard on Gary! Gary hurt his beloved! He can't forgive himself!"

Julia gave a frustrated breath. "Julia thinks Gary needs to get over his self-pity act and talk to Nashi. She needs him too." She shook her head and stalked off. "Julia's getting back to work," she huffed.

Silver's eyes were wide. "She never slips into the third person unless she's really mad," he murmured.

"But, she's not wrong nor is she right," Gray reasoned. "Gary has to at least talk to Nashi. She's genuine about forgiving Gary, but they need to talk about what happened. The sooner, the better."

Juvia bit her lip. "Maybe…Nashi isn't the only one Gary needs to talk to."

Silver furrowed his eyebrows as he looked up at his mother. "Then, who?"

Gray met Juvia's eyes with knowing in his own. "When he comes home, he'll know what to do," he agreed. "After all, that idiot is a king."

---

The burger wrapper had been balled up and the fries and drink were gone, all sitting at the bedside table. The sick bed was empty as well, ruffled only slightly. Left in the middle of the bed was the bag and Luna's old clothes folded neatly. She would return for them later.

Gale and Luna were trekking into the forest with Luna on Gale's back and his jacket warming her.

"You didn't have to do this, you know," Luna murmured with her eyes closed. "I could've walked."

"I'm beginning to think you're right. Think you gained some pounds there, principessa," Gale puffed teasingly.

"Shut up," Luna scolded. More like whined half-hearted. "If I'm so fat, let me walk."

"Nope. I promised your mom I'd help you take it easy for the next few days," Gale revealed. "Your wish is my command, principessa, within reason."

Luna smiled. "I want a hot prince to pamper me."

"Rejected and not possible. Princes don't go after blondes."

"I hate you."

"So, you're saying you love me, think I'm a god, and you called me 'hot'? You flatter this dragon too much, Blondie-girl."

Luna chuckled a little, then sighed. "I kind of miss hanging out like this," she told him. "Discounting the parts when you were a huge jerk."

"I also have a huge—"

"Don't you dare say something dirty, mister," Luna warned, opening one eye and prodding his cheek.

Gale grinned. "Yes, principessa."

The rest of the climb Luna opened her eyes on to look around. Fall had definitely set in. The leaves were orange and red and gold and hinting at brown as they clung to their mother trees or fluttered to the ground. Two squirrels jumped from tree to tree as they looked for more nuts and acorns to store in their burrow for winter. A fox came home to her mate with a rabbit while he offered a stray sparrow that had not migrated for the winter. Autumn was a beautiful season. Like Spring, it was an in-between season, helping everyone transition from the blazing sun and sweltering weather to a refined sun and noiseless snow.

Luna lifted a finger for a leaf to caress it and twirl to the ground. She watched it with captivated eyes. "Beautiful," she muttered

Gale's grin turned more into a warm smile.

Just like you when you get so caught up in the world around you.

Gale stopped. "We're here."

Luna hummed as she looked up at the sky. "What do you me—…?" She turned forward and her words trailed off. She was looking at a site that only movies could get right. A small clearing had been born into nature. But, that clearing was not just grass. A tiered fountain lay in the middle of it all with a pool of white granite surrounding it, filled with spare jewel. Stone extended with benches signifying the four cardinal directions and a lamppost in-between each one.

Luna slid down from Gale's back to approach the spectacle herself. "Where are we?" she whispered. "What is this?"

Gale watched Luna as she trailed her fingers on the benches. "Found Elvin here once. Had to track him down since we were all supposed to leave for some field trip thing. He was right here, staring at this fountain."

Luna looked at the fountain. It was made of polished white granite. The story it told was unbelievable. A woman was on the top tier. She seemed to be crying and singing as she held her hands together in prayer. Four symbols were carved into the granite on her level with ten more symbols below that, each varying and unique.

"What do you see?" Gale wondered.

"Can't you see them?" Luna asked. "The white lady and the symbols… It's amazing…"

"I can't."

Luna looked back at Gale in confusion. "What do you mean?"

Gale came up to one of the benches and sat down. Luna joined him without hesitation as Gale looked up and down at the fountain. "For one, the fountain is black in my eyes," he announced. "There's no lady at all. At the top is a dragon curled around a tower. Below are four symbols. Then, the level below that are seven symbols."

Luna furrowed her eyebrows. "How? That doesn't make sense."

"That's because the stone is Magic," Gale told her.

Luna looked at the fountain in wonder. "'Magic'?"

"Mmm-hmm. Doesn't feel like normal rock," Gale explained. "Thought it was an 'Eye of the Beholder' spell. Like those things shady guys put on rocks to make people think they're getting top-notch crap. But, there's no spell on this we could think of. The fountain is magical."

"Amazing," Luna whispered.

Gale nodded. "Yeah. The water has some magical properties too. Elvin has been studying it thoroughly. It was the power to heal, to restore life on the cusp of death, take your thirst away completely, and even show you things you never thought you'd see."

Luna looked at Gale with a raised eyebrow. "Seriously?"

Gale grinned and nudged her. "Go look for yourself."

Luna rolled her eyes, but got up. She went to the water and bent over. All she saw was her reflection and nothing more. "You liar," she dubbed.

"Touch the water," Gale ordered.

Luna huffed, but did as he said and touched the water with the hand baring her guild mark. The water rippled. Her reflection was gone. When the water settled, Luna was looking at something else. She was looking at the black dragon that haunted her dreams. She was looking the creature who loved a human.

"It's you," Luna whispered. "You're the one from my dreams."

The black dragon only blinked back at her.

Luna leaned forward. "Can you…? Can you understand me?"

The black dragon tipped his head.

Luna gave a shaky laugh. "Oh, my God, it really is you!" she cheered.

"Really is who, Blondie?"

Luna turned around to beckon Gale excitedly. "Gale, come look! It's the dragon from my dreams!"

Gale got up and moved forward. "Blondie…"

"No, it really is him! Come look!" Luna insisted. As Gale settled beside her, Luna turned to the water. "See? It's—!"

The dragon was gone.

Luna frowned. "Where'd he go?"

"The water works in mysterious ways," Gale reminded. "Besides, I wouldn't have been able to see it."

"Then, what do you see?" Luna wondered.

Gale looked at the water with soft eyes. "Nothing, Blondie," he told her. "I don't need to see anything." He looked at her. "Not when I have you."

Luna was taken back at that. "Gale…"

"So, um, what was the deal with you and Jay anyways?" Gale blurted.

Luna sighed and shrugged. "I don't know," she admitted. "He was really cute and nice and I thought I could kiss him, but… I don't know. Papa always tells me I'm too young to think about boys."

Thank you, Uncle Natsu, Gale appreciated. To Luna, he asked, "What about your first kiss?"

Luna gave a coy smile. "He was different," she reasoned. "I don't know. At the time, I kind of had a crush on him. I'm glad he was my first."

Gale swallowed down his jealousy. "And who the Hell was it that was oh-so-special?"

Luna raised an amused eyebrow. "You really want to know?"

Gale nodded.

Luna leaned closer. "It was…" she whispered. Her lips got close to Gale's ear to tell him the name. "None of your business." She reeled back to burst into laughter.

Gale caught her before she could go to far and held her close. "Give me a name, Blondie!"

"Never!" Luna laughed. "Seeing you get like this is too funny!"

"Why can't you tell me?" Gale glared at Luna as he scowled at her (more like pouted). "You're stupidly stubborn."

"And you're a horrible jerk," Luna rebutted, winking. "Yet, here we are."

Gale rolled his eyes. "I bet he wasn't even that good if you won't give me a name," he goaded.

"He was," Luna assured. "I don't think I'd kiss him again, though, but he was."

"I could do better," Gale mumbled.

Luna raised an eyebrow. "What was that?"

Gale sighed. He dragged his eyes to Luna. Fierce ruby connected with questioning chocolate. "I said, 'I could do better'," he repeated.

Luna snorted. "Like I'd want you to kiss me after you insulted my weight."

Gale snickered as he moved a hand to brush aside the jacket and her shirt, revealing the juncture between her neck and shoulder. "You let me kiss you there," he reminded.

"Not by choice!" Luna exclaimed.

"You loved it," Gale teased.

"You jerk. It felt weird," Luna muttered. "Don't do that again."

Gale raised an eyebrow as his smirk widened. "The more you tell me not to do it, the more I have to."

Luna gave him a dry look. "What are you, five?"

Gale leaned forward, his nose brushing against her cheek. "You caught me. Here's your reward." He nosed his way to the juncture for his lips to press a lingering kiss there.

Luna let out a little gasp when he did that. "What are you doing?" she shakily asked.

"It's your reward," Gale murmured, kissing the spot again. "What? Don't like it?"

"It feels funny," Luna complained.

Gale grinned. "Then, it's working." He opened his mouth for his teeth to accidentally scrape the skin.

An electric shock burst through Luna and she gasped, shoving Gale away. Her hand slapped onto the juncture, covering it, and gave Gale a wide-eyed stare. "What was that?" she panted.

Gale looked worriedly at Luna. "Sorry. I didn't mean for that to happen."

Luna shuddered. "That felt weird," she muttered.

"I'm really sorry," Gale apologized. Shame and guilt washed over him.

Dammit. I should've been more careful. She's not old enough.

Luna shook her head as she let her hand drop. "It's okay," she promised. She gave him a smile. "You didn't mean to. No harm done."

Why are you so forgiving of me? Why can't you see it yet? Gale wanted to question.

Luna hugged herself as she shivered. "It's getting colder out here. Want to head back?"

Gale coughed. "Uh, yeah. We can. Let's get you out of that hut and back home, okay?"

"Can you stay with me when I get home?" Luna pleaded. "Just for a little while. Normally, I ask Cane to come over when my brothers are busy, but I know Cane's working hard on his act probably, so…"

"I can stay," Gale assured. "What do you and him normally do together?"

Luna gave Gale a coy smile. "Things only lovers can know."

Gale's eyes bulged.

What the Hell?

Luna laughed. "Sorry. I couldn't resist it! I guess it depends. Sometimes, we cook. Other times, we watch movies together or play Lacrima Games. We can do whatever you want, really."

Gale felt envy boil inside him. "We can watch a movie. In the dark. In your bed. Alone," he teased, wiggling his eyebrows.

Luna did not seem fazed. "Sure, fine. Cane and I or Silver and I do that already."

Gale tried to hold back his growl.

And the water boy is in on this too?

"Yeah. That sounds great," Gale all but snarled out. "I'm so excited."

Luna beamed. "Great!" she said, clapping her hands. "Let's get going!" She jumped onto Gale's back and pointed forward. "Onward, dragon! We're headed west!"

Gale grumbled as he hooked his arms around Luna's legs and began walking. "What happened to you could walk on your own?"

Luna giggled. "The dragon doesn't want to carry his princess? Is he getting weak?"

"The princess doesn't even need the dragon when she had the Water Prince and the king of fools to tend to her every need," Gale said snidely.

Luna raised an amused eyebrow. "Are you jealous?" she teased. "Green doesn't suit you, dear dragon."

"I'm not jealous of those losers," Gale grunted. "Who cares who you cuddle with? Not my problem."

"I don't cuddle with them," Luna corrected. "Cane, maybe, but not really."

Gale perked at that. "Really?"

Luna shook her head. "Nope!"

Gale smirked. "Then, great. You'll get the full cuddling experience with this dragon then," he decided.

Luna blanked. "Wait… I never said I—"

Gale cackled as he began running. "Let's go, Blondie! I'm ready to get freaky with you under the sheets!"

Luna heavily blushed at that. "Wait, no! I didn't—! You're such a huge jerk!"

---

Happy flapped his wings, making sure his grip on Natsu was firm. He glanced down at Natsu, concerned. Natsu, however, was too busy looking into the horizon to notice.

Oh, Natsu, Happy sighed.

Natsu's eyes glinted as he remembered his meeting with Draculos.

"Natsu Dragneel, you know what I'm about to say, don't you?"

Natsu was thrown back into the meeting with Draculos.

°•°•°•°

Natsu fiddled with his scarf as he looked at Draculos. "I do," he confirmed. "But, hey, we did our best to protect Magnolia and we won."

"The battle is won, but the war is far going," Draculos reminded calmly. "Natsu, the actions you displayed were admirable, but you need to be careful. For anyone outside of the select few to know your secret about you being a true dragon king, let alone to be the Etherious King…"

"They won't," Natsu promised. "I promise. No one will know."

"But, what about your daughter?"

Natsu hardened. "No one will know about her either," he swore. He promised that with all his heart. "We've done everything we planned. Trust me. No one will know—"

Draculos went into his drawer. "Well, according to the Fiore Times Magazine, the savior of the Summit should step forth." He pulled out the magazine, flipped open to the cover story.

Natsu leaned forward as the magazine was given to him and took it to read. In bolt letters was SAVIOR OF THE SUMMIT with pictures of the rescued people of Asagao celebrating their return. Interviews from multiple townspeople led anyone who led the article to believe a band of young heroes led by a mysterious maiden saved them all.

"Luna," Natsu whispered. "Mystogan told me he cleared with the chief her name or Fairy Tail's name not be apart of any story."

"Technically, it was not the chief who spoke," Draculos corrected. "I was told an overzealous fan of Mystogan's accidentally spilled to the tabloids. Now, I have heard rumors of people wanting to know who this 'maiden' is." His eyes darkened. "Whispers of the 'white maiden' are beginning to infect the darker corners of the society, Natsu."

Natsu growled. "Look, I'm not keeping my baby girl locked in a town like a bird in a cage, all right? She needs freedom! She needs adventure!"

"And, she will get it," Draculos promised. "It's still safe for her to venture, but, should her direct name be linked to any of this, she will have to be kept at home. I know that's not an ideal lifestyle for one so young, but none of us can afford her being captured and used for something worse."

Natsu sighed. He put back the magazine. "It just doesn't seem real," he muttered. "She's my baby girl, you know? I want her to be happy."

"I want her happiness too," Draculos assured. "But, safety has to come first. Not just for her, but for you as well. If word gets to the press, I can file a DA-Notice, but in the non-magical society, I cannot enforce it. Not even the queen can. We have to take every precaution to make sure both of you are safe."

Natsu bowed his head as his fists tightened. "I got it…Lord Draculos."

°•°•°•°

"Hey, Natsu? We're landing."

Natsu snapped out of his daze to see they were closing in on Fairy Tail. "That's great, Happy. Thanks for the company," he murmured.

Happy nodded. "Anytime. Now, hold on." He soared them both down to Fairy Tail. The street might have been busy, but all made a runway for the Blue Exceed of Fairy Tail and his partner, the Dragon King and Salamander. Happy landed in front of Fairy Tail and set Natsu down before landing on Natsu's head.

Happy gave a puff of breath. "Man. That flight was long," he sighed.

Natsu reached up to scratch between Happy's ears with a grin. "You did great, little buddy. Sorry for dragging you along."

"It's fine. Charla wanted me to get out of the den anyways," Happy explained. He pouted. "She's been really cranky lately." His eyes lit up. "You think she's going to have another egg?"

Natsu chuckled as he went into the guild hall. "I don't think so, little buddy. Might want to lay off asking her for another, too. Trust me. Girls hate it when you nag them about more kids." He pouted. "Lucy got all mad at me when I asked for more. Sheesh. Not like I ask for much!"

Happy snickered. "You did ask her to marry you," he teased.

Natsu grumbled. "Just whose side are you on?" He looked around the guild. Most of the members were doing costume fittings and reviewing their routines for the night. The guild was a mess of glitter and cloth and ribbon with Ena at the center of it all. No one got past her without her fixing costumes and directing those to volunteer make-up artists.

"Everything's going to look so good this year!" Happy cheered. "I hope Charla lets the eggs right on the float with us again!"

"I'm just psyched we get to still do it," Natsu admitted. "Can't wait for my part!"

"Natsu Dragneel!" came a boon.

Natsu and Happy stiffened at the noise, nearly all the color draining from their face. An angry Ena towered over them comically with a dark aura radiating from her and her right eye glinting red.

"So, after all this time, you finally show up for your final fitting and touch-up three hours late?" she hissed.

Natsu and Happy trembled. "W-W-We're sorry, Ena!" they blubbered.

Aine peeked from behind her sister and smiled. "Calm down, Ena," she cooed. "Uncle Natsu had a meeting today. You know that?"

Ena growled and stalked away. "Thirteen!" she barked, scaring the poor girl of swirling eyes. "You better not think you're wearing those chains with your costume!"

Aine sighed. "She's been a bit on edge," she revealed. "This morning, Bruno accidentally tore through a few costumes. She's madder at him than you."

Happy and Natsu sighed. "Well, that's a relief," they breathed.

Natsu sniffed around. "Where's Lucy and my kiddos? All their scents are stale."

"Aunt Lucy went with Luke to see Luna," Aine reported. "She called to say Luna is awake and Gale is taking Luna home. Aunt Lucy is showing around Her Majesty and Her Lady with the mayor. Ellie told me she had to leave early to meet up with Nashi." Her lips twisted in a frown. "I'm not sure where Luke and Igneel went."

Natsu waved it away. "Knowing Igneel, he escaped from the hospital and snuck in to see Mary Jane. As for Luke…" His eyebrows furrowed.

Luke was really upset the other day over Nashi. Probably still is. Knowing him, I know just where he went to blow off some steam.

"Look a little lost there, Pinky," came a jest.

Natsu looked up to see Gray. He stuck his tongue out. "Shut up."

Gray raised an eyebrow. "Oh, gee. Good one," he remarked sarcastically. He turned to Aine. "Can you handle your sister before she gives Thirteen a heart attack?"

Aine nodded. "I'm on it." And, she walked away.

Gray turned back to Natsu. "How'd the meeting go?"

Natsu shrugged. "All right," he supposed. "You know that really funny-smelling bar down in the next town over?"

"What? The Eos Bar?" Gray questioned.

Natsu nodded. "Yeah. Meet me there tomorrow, 'kay?"

Gray caught the message and nodded. Then, he grinned. "Are you asking me out? Because you're too hideous for me to say, 'yes'."

Natsu shoved Gray. "Like I'd ask a thing like you out," he snapped, disgusted. "Hey, Haps? Mind giving the ice princess and I some time to talk?"

Happy nodded and flew off.

Natsu offered Gray a serious look. "How's he doing?"

Gray sighed and ran a hand through his hair. His age was truly showing now. "He won't talk or eat or sleep. His therapy ended up with him throwing up and saying, 'sorry' over and over again. Mara's afraid it's going to take a lot of therapy for him to get over everything and move on."

"Mara's been working with Nashi these past two years and look at her progress," Natsu reminded. "Gary is going to get through this, all right? Both of them are."

"But I wish there was something I could say to him to make him feel better, y'know?" Gray spoke. "I just have never been in his position."

Natsu had to nod in agreement to that. "I get it."

Gray searched Natsu's eyes. "I know you do," he assured. "I want you to talk to him."

Natsu's eyes widened. "What, me? But—!"

"You can get through to my kid better than I can," Gray said flatly. "You were where he was once. You know what it's like. You can help him more than me."

Natsu did not know what to say. "Gray…"

"I'll talk to Luke," Gray offered. "Lucy called me and told me Luke ran off somewhere. He's pissed and hurt that his sister was hurt. I know how that feels."

Guilt stabbed at Natsu, making him duck his head. "I didn't want to," he murmured

"You didn't," Gray agreed. "But, it happened," he added bluntly. There was no anger or spite behind his words. Just blatant fact. "You hurt her with what you became that day. I know what Luke is feeling just like you know what Gary is feeling. We have to talk to them before they make our mistakes."

Natsu had to agree to that. There was no other way. "He still in the confinement area?"

Gray nodded. "And, Luke?"

"He's at the pond," Natsu revealed. "He's meditating, but it's different when he's angry. Be careful."

"I will." Gray clapped Natsu's shoulder. "Let's bring our kids out of our past."

As he walked away, Natsu's eyes went to the basement doors and hardened.

Stupid brat. You're just causing all sorts of problems, aren't you?

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Fairy Adventure

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Gary was against the wall with his head hung low and the shadows hiding his eyes. He lay in his half-dead state with his food untouched and his clothes left outside his cage. He looked like neither man nor beast, but just a creature ready to turn into prey.

The door slid open and slammed shut.

STEP. STEP. STEP. STEP.

The footsteps stopped.

Lips pursed into a sneer. "Tch," came a disgusted noise. "You look even more horrible than before."

Gary said nothing.

Lips curled into a growl. "Don't even try that silent act with me, kid," came a spat. "You're going to look at me when I'm talking. That's the least you could do for daring to hurt someone I love deeply."

Gary did nothing.

Then, his head shifted up as his eyes cracked open, revealing dull cerulean.

Cerulean met onyx.

Natsu gave a stiff nod. "Good job." He settled on the ground in a crisscross formation and put his hands on his knees. He stared Gary dead in the eye. There was no hate or dislike in his eyes, but there was certainly no love in them either. They just stared. "So, you're trying to starve yourself," he said matter-of-factly.

Gary said nothing.

"You feel like a monster," Natsu presumed. "You hurt someone you loved. You scarred her. You terrified her. And now, you're doing what you feel is right. You're a beast. Beasts deserve to be locked up." His hands folded over his chest. "Beasts don't deserve to love, so they stay silent in their cages, shackled up. Am I right?"

Gary said nothing.

Natsu closed his eyes and sighed. "Look, kid, let's get one thing straight." He opened his eyes. One eye was shifted into onyx while the other eye had blackened with a glaring red iris. The outline of scales rippled on Natsu's arms and face. "We are monsters." There was no time to bullshit, to beat around the truth. There was only time for reality. "We're murderers. We're idiots with Curses. We're nothing more than dangers to society."

Gary's eyes were downcast at that.

A grin. "Or, at least, I would say that if I gave a crap about labels."

Gary's eyes snapped up to see Natsu reverting to his human form, grinning all the way.

"Demon, Dragon, Devil, Human—what difference does it matter? Who cares?" Natsu snorted. "I certainly don't. Everyone told me I had to choose who I truly was. Was I human? Was I the Dragon King? Was I the Etherious King?" He shook his head as he chuckled. "I mean, seriously? Who cares about labeling shit? I am who I am. I'm Natsu of Fairy Tail. I'm Lucy's mate and her kick-ass husband. And I'm a dad to four kids." He nodded his head in agreement with himself. "And, that's all I need to be. People can call me 'Salamander' or 'Dragon King' or a 'threat to society', but at the end of the day, I'm me. That's all Lucy and I care about."

Gary looked down. His parched lips opened and when his words choked out, they were hoarse and dry. "I hurt her… I'm a monster…"

"That's not what she sees," Natsu negated. "She doesn't see you as a devil or a human. She sees you as—what does she say again? Her dog, I think?" He allowed himself a little laugh. "And I thought I was bad at nicknames." His grin fell into a frown. "Now, you did hurt my princess, and that's not an easy thing to forgive. She and my family are my world. I live and will die for them. But, my forgiveness doesn't matter. It's hers that should matter. She forgives you, kid. No lies included."

"She shouldn't," Gary whispered. "I'm a monster."

Natsu scratched his chin. "You know, did your asshole of a dad ever tell you the story of my powers?"

Gary shook his head slowly.

"Well, good. Ice princess probably wouldn't get it right anyways," Natsu muttered. "Well, I'll skip the junk of my dysfunctional family and the war of Alvarez because you've been debriefed about that a while ago. But, I didn't truly get my powers until we took that hundred-year quest. Lucy got a lead on Aquarius' key on the way, and, well, we put our mission on hold to get Lucy's friend back." He tipped his head to the ceiling as he thought back to those times. "Man, those were the days. Everything was changing for the better. Charla was finally getting into Happy. That old metal-head was settling down with Lev. Alvarez nearly fell apart, but got their shit together and turned over a new leaf under new leadership. And then, there was good, ole Team Natsu doing what we do best: kicking ass, taking names, and getting paid for it…kind of."

Natsu chuckled at that. "But, anyways, we were heading out to this new town. Brand, new adventure, right? It was definitely getting me all fired up. But, we ran into some bad guys. You know how the story goes. We run into the bad guys, beat 'em up, and save the day. But, this was different. Some Alvarez soldiers actually ambushed us. They teamed up with some leftovers of the Balam Alliance and got to us. So, we fought back and we did it Fairy Tail style. But…"

"Natsu! Save me!"

Natsu's eyes glistened at the buried memories. "I saw some things I never thought I'd see again," he admitted. "They had a Mage that had use something like Nightmare on us, a Reflector Magic spell. And, I…" His head tipped downwards and sadness glinted in his eyes. "I saw memories I wish I could unsee forever," he murmured. "And, I guess…it triggered me. I couldn't help it."

"Raaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!"

"Natsu, please! Don't do this! Natsu!"

"I turned into something I wish I hadn't," Natsu confessed. "I turned into the Etherious King my brother always wanted me to be. And, it sucked. I wasn't in control. The demon in me was. He burnt down an entire forest and fought against the people I fought beside. And, he even burnt…" He closed his eyes and sighed. "He even burnt my mate," he admitted.

Gary's eyes widened.

"I can't really say 'he' did it because, in the end, 'he' and 'me'? We're the same," Natsu said. "But, still, it was easier to blame the demon in me than anything. I hurt the one person I promised to protect with my life and I couldn't live with myself. I was in a pretty dark place for a while. I begged Erza and Gramps to keep me locked up. I forced myself to leave Lucy alone. She still has that scar because of me. She couldn't trust me. She couldn't…couldn't love something like me. I could never look at her without remembering what I did and how sorry I was. I thought, 'maybe I am a monster'." He gave a humorless snort. "You should've seen how pissed your dad was at me back in the day. We fight, sure, but never seriously. This time, he beat the crap out of me for hurting his sister. He yelled at me and told me what type of monster I was. He gave it to me straight. Erza tried to stop him, but he wouldn't listen. He just kept giving me shit and I kept taking it."

"He did that?" Gary whispered.

Natsu nodded. "Yeah, he sure as Hell did," he affirmed. "It was Lucy that stopped us fighting. She was crying and told Gray she didn't want me hurt. Gray couldn't believe it. He was so blown out of his mind about why Lucy would even still care about me after what happened. But, she only did her little Lucy-smile and looked at me and said words I can't forget. She told me, 'Because…it doesn't matter to me what or who he is. Natsu will always be my Natsu. And I want to go on a never-ending adventure with him'." He bubbled out laughter. "I don't think I've seen Gray ever look more defeated than when Juvia kicked him out when she was pregnant with you. What was he supposed to say? We're both suckers when it comes to Lucy. We can't say, 'no' to her. So, he let us be, but only for ten minutes. He told Lucy if he heard her cry or in pain, he was putting me down and he didn't care if she hated him."

"Wow," Gary whispered. "What happened next?"

Natsu shrugged. "Well, Lucy started talking to me. She was telling me how Happy was worried about me and Erza was shaking Gray for nearly killing me. And then, she told me she forgave me." He shook his head. "I can't really explain what she said or retell it because she said it in such a Lucy-way, you had to just be there and listen to her talk. When she was finished, I didn't know what to say. What was I supposed to say? 'Sorry'? Yeah, no, not good enough. So, I pushed aside my pride and I bowed to her. She's the only one I'll ever bow to. I told her I'd spend the rest of our lives making it up to her. I'd become a better person for her. I'd learn how to control my dragon side and my demon side so I could always be her Natsu."

Natsu smiled wistfully. "She called me a dummy and told me I was already her Natsu. We hugged and made it. Well, for the most part. I promised her I'd see someone to talk about what happened. Erza, Wendy, Charla, and Happy forgave me, but Gray? Eh, he was still not-too-sure about me. He wanted to know if I was serious about my promises and I told him Igneel didn't raise a bitch or a liar. So, he punched me and told me he wasn't sorry about beating me up and would put me down if I tried anything like that again. But, then, he told me we had a mission to finish. And, the rest is history."

"I… I didn't know," Gary murmured. "I didn't realize any of that happened."

"It's not a story the world knows," Natsu laughed. "It's more like a Team Natsu, Laxus, Mira, Gajeel, Levy, Pantherlily, Freed, and Gramps sort of thing. And, well, now you too. Life ain't fair, kid. Your dad might've inherited his Curse, but you and I were born into it. That ain't right, but it happens anyways. We can't do anything about what we were born with. But, we can do something about what to do with what we have." He pushed himself to stand up and brushed off the dirt on his pants. "We can choose to live by labels or choose to be ourselves." He turned his back and raised a hand to show his farewell. "Choice is yours, kid." He sunk his hands in his pockets and began to walk away.

Gary piped up. "What do I do?" he questioned. "How can I look at her again? How can I ever trust myself near her?"

Natsu put his hand on the handle. "Take it one step at a time, kid. How about just let her talk?"

Gary allowed his eyes to drop to the ground as the door opened and shut.

Just let her talk, huh? I've been pushing her away since her panic attack. I bet she wants nothing to do with me. I don't know the next time I can speak to her.

ERRRRRRR.

The door slid open.

Footsteps came in.

The door slid shut.

"So, guess you and my papa had a heart-to-heart, huh?"

Gary's eyes widened and his head snapped up to see Nashi in all her glory. She had changed from what she was wearing earlier in the day. She donned a Fairy Tail jersey sweatshirt and leggings and boots with a beanie on her hair. She gave Gary a forced smile with her eyes dull.

"Angel," Gary breathed. He searched her eyes to find something amiss. "What happened to you?"

Nashi shook her head as she came closer. "Nothing. I'm fine," she lied. "But, you're talking to me, so that's good. Are you feeling better?"

"Angel, what happened?" Gary wanted to know. "You look pale."

Nashi looked away. "It was nothing," she forced out. "Just some random guy on the street, but Chi-chi and I took care of it."

Gary's face contorted into anger. "Someone touched you?" he hissed. "They did it without your consent?"

"Drop it," Nashi pleaded, looking down at Gary with begging eyes. "It was nothing and I'm overreacting. Let's just talk about you, okay?"

Gary saw how much Nashi wanted a subject change and relented, sighing. "Whatever Angel wants," he agreed. "How, um…? How are you feeling?"

"Great," Nashi blurted. "I feel great. My injuries are all healed."

His eyes drifted to her leg. "And, um… How's your leg?"

Nashi glanced down at it. "It's fine," she soothed. "I have a bit of a scar, but I'll live. Not like I don't have others."

Gary looked away. "Right."

Nashi was desperate to keep the conversation going. "So, u-u-um… What did you and my papa talk about?"

"He told me some things I needed to hear." Gary sighed and looked back at Nashi with broken eyes. "Angel, there's no amount of sorry's I could ever give you that will make up for what I did to you," he started. When Nashi opened her mouth to argue, he plowed through. "I know you forgive me, but I can't forgive myself for my actions. And, that is why I will spend every second making it up to you for the rest of our lives."

Nashi felt her cheeks pink a little as she recoiled. "What are you saying, dog?"

Gary pushed himself to stand up. It was slow and hard for him, but he did it. "I'm saying I won't ever allow myself to forget what happened. And I'm saying I'll make a promise to you." He walked forward to his cage boundaries. "I, Gary Fullbuster"—he stood in front of the bars—"promise that"—he lowered himself onto his knees—"for the rest of my life"—he bowed his head low—"will never stop making Angel's life better for her in order to lull the sin I bare. I will stay in your life as long as you desire me, to Nashi Dragneel. And that is a Devil's promise."

Nashi's eyes widened as she watched Gary.

He's bowing to me… He's really serious about this…

Gary kept his head hung low. His hands tightened on his legs.

This is the only way I'll allow myself to live. If she doesn't accept my proposal—he shut his eyes—then I—

"No need for the life commitment, dog," came a chuckle.

A warm hand touched Gary's cheek and forced him to look up.

Embarrassed hickory looked at humble cerulean.

"You're so extra," Nashi muttered. "Talking about the rest of our lives so casually. You do realize that sounded more like a marriage proposal, right? And I plan on staying single for a very long time." She paused. Then, she added, "But, not partner-less."

"Does this mean Angel accepts?" Gary wanted to know. "Even though I'm a monster?"

Nashi furrowed her eyebrows. "What do you mean?"

"I'm a monster," Gary reiterated. "I hurt you, Angel. I'm not…" He tried to search for the right word. "I'm not…"

Nashi sighed and shook her head despairingly. "God, you idiot dog, you really are a pain in the ass," she insulted. "You're not a 'monster'. Hell, not even your Devil is a 'monster' to me. You're both my boys, got it? You're both my idiot dogs. And, trust me when I say that won't ever change."

Gary smiled weakly as his eyes glistened. "Do you honestly mean that?"

Nashi smiled and bubbled out a little laugh. "Hell yeah I do. Don't go crying on me for saying that either," she warned in amusement. "I told Orias and I'll tell you too. You will always be just Gary to me. Not the Ice Devil of Fairy Tail or a monster or even the eldest Fullbuster. You're as much Gary to me as I'm Nashi to you." She reached out and lightly punched his shoulder through the bars. "And, hey, now I can beat you up for pulling the shit you did. Once I do, we can call it even, 'kay?"

Gary let out a wet laugh. "Whatever Angel wants," he promised.

Nashi put her hand to the lock on the door and allowed her hand to glow pink. An audible click sounded and the door opened a little bit. She stood up and opened the cage door for Gary, beckoning him with a jerk of her head. "Now, come on, dog, we're back in Fantasia. We've got to rehearse our Angel-Devil storyline, remember? Ena's already freakin' about your fitting."

Gary frowned. "How are we back in the show?"

Nashi gave a sheepish smile, rubbing her nose the as she looked away. "Let's just say I owe someone I huge favor and I know the plan on collecting sometime soon," was all she gave. She began to walk out. "Come on. Let's go."

Gary stared at Nashi's retreating back.

His fists clenched.

Nashi was halted when she felt arms engulf her waist and a cold body press against her. A warm blush startled her cheeks as her eyes widened in confusion and abashment. "What the f—?"

"Thank you, Angel," Gary whispered into her neck. His eyes were closed as he nuzzled into the crook of her neck and hugged her tighter. His right hand began to wander. "I promise, for the rest of eternity, I won't stop at nothing to keep thanking you for giving me a second chance."

Nashi was stunned at that. Then, she closed her eyes and smiled. "You dummy… There's nothing to thank me for," she teased.

A tick mark popped on her forehead.

"But, if you really want to thank me…"

BAM.

Gary laid on the floor with drool coming out of his mouth and his eyes swirling as a furious Nashi glowered at him, red in the face. "…stop trying to feel me up, you freaking perverted dog!"

---

Gray walked through the forest without fail. With it being autumn, he saw creatures that hibernated were hoarding food to store for winter. Other animals had cleared out from the forest in droves in order to find warmer sanctuary. And other stayed behind, unafraid of surviving in the cold weather. Gray did not mind it one bit. He enjoyed colder weather. But, he walked with a purpose. He walked to find Luke.

A wave of golden energy burst through the forest. To nature and its flora and fauna, they felt nothing. But, when it hit Gray, he staggered and let out a hiss.

So, this is where you've been hiding all this time.

Gray carried forward and pushed himself past the trees and foliage to make it to Dragon Pond. His eyes narrowed at what he saw. Luke mediated in the center of Dragon Pond with a golden sheen around him and his eyes closed. Orbs of water floated around him, varying in their size. They looked like they were his protectors. A gold aura tinged Dragon Pond and the foliage surrounding it. It made everything seem surreal and magical. But, for all the wrong reasons.

Gray pushed himself to move towards Luke when a golden light fluttered in front of him. It flickered once, twice, then a golden version of Luke floated before Gray, copying Luke's every attribute. He glared at Gray. "You shouldn't be here," he growled.

"Thought Projection, huh?" Gray assumed.

"Go away," Projection-Luke demanded. "Leave me alone."

"Not until you listen to what I have to say," Gray countered. "Now, look here, Luke, you will listen to me."

Projection-Luke merely growled at him. "I will not!" He disappeared in a flutter of gold.

Gray shook his head in frustration. "Luke, you don't understand! I get how you feel! I understand your anger!" he shouted.

Luke was silent. His lips moved. "No…." He stopped up from his floating place on the pond to his full length, forcing Gray's eyes to widen. Luke's eyes opened to show they were glowing gold. "…you don't." The orbs of water brushed past Luke and barreled towards Gray.

Gray froze two of the larger ones in his ice and crushed them into shards. He was quick to avoid a smaller one, but a medium one absorbed him in a type of water lock. Gray bared his teeth and disappeared as the orb turned into ice. Gray burst from the ball of ice, brushing off shards from himself. "Don't do this, Luke," he warned. "Don't be reckless. Listen to me—!"

Luke reached into his pocket and pulled out something. "I am through 'listening'," he sneered. "He hurt my sister! He hurt Nashi!" He held in-between his fingers and shining coin. It was nothing like jewel or any other currency on Earth Land. It was not an Angel Coin either. On the coin was a shining star with the sun and moon hiding behind it. Across the star, sun, and moon was the symbol of an anchor that had an arrow head. It was the sign of Sagittarius.

Gray recoiled at the site of it. "Shit," he hissed.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

« This is what you call a 'Star Coin'. Unlike an Angel Coin, Star Coins are gifted to one worthy to use Celestial Spirit Magic and weapons of the spirits. A Star Coin has the symbol of the Celestial Realm and may be used for temporary use. Still, it cannot summon Celestial Spirits and does not replace the power of a Celestial Gate Key. »

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Luke firmly grasped the Star Coin and held it close to his chest. "With this coin, I summon the bow and arrow of the archer, Sagittarius!" he chanted.

Gray was blinded as the coin glowed within Luke's fist and had to shield himself. When the light was over, Gray snuck a peak to see Luke drawing back a celestial arrow and used the same bow Lucy used in her Star Dress: Sagittarius Form.

"And no one hurts my family," Luke growled. He released his arrow and it sailed at Gray.

Gray lashed his arm and ice came from his fingers in the form of icicles. They sailed and hit the arrow, forcing it to explode. From the smoke came a series of arrows ready for Gray. Gray gritted his teeth as he dodged his assailants. Some he managed to avoid from flipped and twirling out of the way. Others he met with his own ice and caused them to explode. When enough was enough, Gray slammed a hand on the ground. "Ice-Make: Wall!" A wall of hard ice emerged from the ground and protected Gray in the nick of time. Arrows exploded on the ice, rocking it, but the ice wall stood still. "Luke!" Gray shouted. "Stop this! I just want to talk!"

Luke allowed his bow to disappeared back into a Star Coin and put it in his pocket to take out another one. This time, the sign of Taurus was on it. "I'm done with talking! With this coin, I summon the hammer of the Raging Bull, Taurus!" In a flash, the hammer of Taurus was in Luke's hands. Luke drifted onto the water, but still stayed above it. He threw himself into a sprint on the water with his hammer on his shoulders.

Gray allowed his Ice Wall to disperse and looked to see Luke rushing at him. "Luke, don't do this!" he warned.

Luke's eyes only steeled. "I just want you to leave me alone!" He let out a mad roar as he swung his hammer. He got off the water and was only footsteps away from Gray as he swung his hammer down. He was just about to hit Gray when…

…he could not move his arm.

Luke looked to see his body incased in ice. His arms, his legs, his torso, his stomach, his hammer—it was all covered in ice and rooted to the ground. The only thing allowed to breathe natural air was Luke's head and his neck. He grunted and cursed as he struggled from his icy mold. "Let me go!" he snapped. "Let me go!"

Gray sighed. "Luke… You can't keep being this angry," he tried.

Luke only gave him an ugly glare. "This is his fault! He hurt my sister!" he snarled.

Gray's eyes saddened. "I know he did. And not even he can forgive himself for doing that."

"She's my sister. She's supposed to be invincible!" Luke shouted. "She trusted him! And, he betrayed her!"

DRIP.

A tear streaked Luke's chin.

DROP.

"She trusted him! And, he nearly killed her!" Luke screamed.

The tear dribbled down Luke's chin and hung there.

"Sh-Sh-She trusted him." Luke whispered. "And-And he… He…"

The tear fell from Luke's chin. It landed on his icy mold and dispersed into glowing particles. The ice around Luke melted into blue particles and freed him. His body dropped to its knees as the hammer fell to the ground and reverted into its Star Coin form.

More tears streamed down Luke's face as he sniveled. His eyes that were full of hate had lessoned into eyes full of grief. "Why?" he cried. "Why did he have to hurt her?"

Gray sighed. "He didn't want to," he promised. "If there's one thing I know about my son, it's how much he loves Nashi. In a moment of weakness, he wasn't the one in charge and neither was his Devil. They both lost control to the pull of the demon in the cathedral. They did things they'll regret for more than their lives. But, they didn't do it because they hate Nashi or don't love her enough. They did it because they weren't in control."

Luke sniffled. "How can she forgive him? How can she still want to be around him?"

"Because she knows when Gary's in his sound mind, he would never hurt her," Gray answered. "She has faith in him and his actions towards her. And even you have to admit Gary's never touched Nashi like that."

Luke sniffed and shook his head. "I don't think I can forgive him," he confessed.

Gray patted Luke's shoulder. "He doesn't need forgiveness. He just needs another chance to prove himself to you he can be trusted with Nashi."

"What if it happens again?" Luke wondered. "What if he hurts her again?"

Gray's eyes darkened at that. "If he does, I grant you the right to fight him. And I can promise you, if he hurts Nashi again and he's aware of it, he will deserve every punch. Even I'll punch him, but only if he knowingly hurts her. Got it?"

Luke rubbed his nose and nodded. "Okay," he mumbled.

Gray allowed himself a little smile. "I know it'll take some time for all of us, but just take it a day at a time. I was once in your position too. It'll be hard for you to watch them go on jobs together, but it gets easier."

"How do you know?" Luke demanded to know.

Gray grew religiously somber at that. "Because I had to watch the same thing happen with your mom and dad."

Luke's eyes widened. "Wait…. What do you mean by that?"

Gray looked ready to tell the story, but the hesitation in his eyes was clear. "Your idiot dad and I haven't always seen eye-to-eye, but we were still brothers-in-arms. We've gone through a few rocky patches in our friendship, but…" He let go of Luke to rub his neck. "There was a time I thought we might stop being friends," he admitted. "He wasn't in control of himself that day, and I get that now. But, at the time, I didn't know that. All I knew was that he might've emotionally hurt us, he got a little physical with Lucy. And your mom… She's my kid sister. If any guy out there hurts her, including myself, I'll protect her. And, I thought I was protecting her from Natsu after that day. He forced himself to be locked up and I took pleasure in yelling at him and punching him for what he did. Team Natsu wasn't the same. I, actually, nearly left Team Natsu and tried to take Lucy with me. She didn't need to be around some psychopathic time-bomb. Or, at least"—he clenched his jaw—"that's what I thought at the time."

Gray moved his hand to finger the dagger-cross on his necklace. "It was Lucy who convinced me to have a civilized conversation with the idiot. I came to his little prison and sat down with him. I called him names, I beat him up, I insulted him, and was ready to walk away from our friendship. But, it took me talking to him to realize he really wasn't the one in control. He made a mistake and he would never forgive himself for it. He wanted my permission to spend the rest of his life making it up to Lucy and everyone."

"And…you gave it to him?" Luke assumed.

Gray nodded. "It was hard for me to do so, but yeah, I did." He remembered it all. "I gave him my permission, but I made a promise if he went rogue and hurt the ones I love, I would be the one to put him down. And he agreed with me. Ever since then, we built back our friendship to what it is now."

Luke took this into deep consideration. "Do you…think my dad will ever go rogue again?"

"Oh, of course not," Gray answered. "The idiot spent these last decades to hone in his powers. His Etherious power is still iffy, but he can keep his sound mind and will never lift a finger against Lucy ever again. That's all that matters." He held out a hand for Luke. Luke took the hand and pulled himself up, getting to his feet. Gray said, "I'm not asking you to forgive my son or do what I did. I just hope you can give him another chance someday. If not for him, then for Nashi's sake." He let go of Luke to turn around. "Well, I have to get going. Ena will kill me if I'm not back into for our final dress rehearsal." He walked away. "Bye, kiddo."

Luke was soon left to his lonesome at Dragon Pond. He was left to gather his thoughts. He was left to think.

Give Gary another chance…for Nashi.

Luke's lips curled into a look of disgust.

Gary… You're lucky of how much I love my sister.

---

Gale lay across the Dragneel couch, cruising through channels on the Lacrima-Vision. He looked bored as ate chips from a bowl on his stomach. He stopped on a channel about a murder case from a decade and a half ago that was now solved and then he took out his Compact.

"Blondie," he whined, "you're taking forever!"

Footsteps bumbled down the steps. "You're so impatient," came a huff.

Gale faintly smirked as he looked at a message from Igneel.

⌜ You think she will? Don't fuck with me. I'm serious about this.⌟

"I'm a dragon, principessa, so yeah, I'm going to be impatient," he retorted as he typed a reply.

⌜ Positive. Don't forget the gift. ⌟

Delivered

Bubbles came up as Luna emerged from the hallway with a scowl on her face. She had changed into her comfort clothes of a big t-shirt and pajama shorts. "Jerk," she insulted. She went over the couch and hovered over Gale. "Who are you messaging?"

"Your jackass brother," Gale said as Igneel's reply came back.

⌜I won't, asshole. She prolly wouldn't come if I didn't bring it.⌟

Luna raised an eyebrow. "Is he talking about Mary Jane?"

Gale nodded as he locked his Compact. "Yeah. He got called in to do fireworks last minute since Romeo can't anymore. Asuka is sick, so he's staying back with her. Iggy-boy wants to bring the Devil Woman, but he can only do it with a little bribery."

Luna nodded in understanding. "I know Mary Jane hates fireworks, but if he bribes her with something really good, she might just go. It's a good plan."

"That I came up with," Gale said haughtily.

Luna rolled her eyes. "Whatever. Now, move over. I want to sit."

Gale sat up and got his legs off the couch for Luna to sit at the other end of the couch. He eyed her with a grin. "What's the matter, Blondie? You don't want to come closer to me?" he teased.

Luna stole the remote from the coffee table and ignored him as she surfed through channels.

Gale put the bowl of chips and his Compact on the coffee table before scooting closer to Luna. "Oh, the silent treatment, huh? Is that it, Blondie?" he probed in amusement. "You know I'll get you to talk."

Luna's lips twitched as they tried not to smile. She shook her head and kept looking through channels.

Gale scooted even closer. "Come on, Blondie-girl, don't make me tickle you," he warned. He raised his hands and wiggled his fingers. "I wasn't planning on getting this touchy with you and making you beg for me to stop, but I guess I can start"—he moved his fingers closer to her—"right"—they were almost on her side—"no—!"

"Okay, okay, I'll talk!" Luna blurted in laughter. "Don't tickle me!"

Gale dropped his hands with satisfaction in his grin and eyes. "Knew you'd see it my way."

Luna rolled her eyes good-naturedly as a smile graced her lips. "You stupid jerk," she teased as she settled on a medieval movie of love and adventure and mishaps. She put down the remote on the stand next to the couch. "I shouldn't have invited a terrible dragon like you into my castle."

Gale chuckled. "Even if you hadn't, I would've came in anyways. Not like you can stop a dragon, principessa."

Luna winked at him. "I just might surprise you, sweetie," she teased.

Gale was stunned for a moment.

Is she really…flirting with me?

Luna scooted over to him this time. "Now, come on. We already missed the first fifteen minutes of the movie."

As Luna approached him, Gale felt confusion take over him. "Um… What are you doing?"

Luna looked at him as though it was obvious. "Duh. We're cuddling?"

Gale's cheeks tinted pink a little bit as he scowled at her. "I knew that," he snapped, "I just…" He looked away angrily.

Luna raised an eyebrow. "Well, don't keep me in suspense. What's wrong?"

Gale gave a frustrated sigh. "Just, like…" He put a hand over his face. "How the Hell do you cuddle anyways?" he muttered.

Luna blinked once, twice. "Wait… You've never cuddled before? What about Julia? Or even with your mom?"

"Never really wanted to cuddle with Jules," Gale muttered. "My mom used to hold me when I was just a kid. That's it."

Luna looked thoughtfully at that. "Huh… Well…" Her face lit up. "I guess I'm your teacher for this then, since I'll be your first!"

Gale's cheeks shaded even darker pink.

She's innocent. She doesn't know what she's saying. She didn't mean it like that, he chanted to himself.

Luna crept closer. "Okay, you just need to sit normally and don't worry! I can take care of the rest," she promised in a soothing voice.

Gale felt sweat pouring from his forehead and steam coming out his nose and ears.

Shit, shit, calm down, dude. She's innocent. She doesn't know what know what she's saying.

Luna paused. "I guess it depends more on what makes you comfortable," she said aloud. "Do you want to sit and do it or lay down? Or we could do both and I'm in-between your legs…"

Gale could barely keep himself together.

This girl is going to be the death of me.

Gale cleared his throat. "I can sit," he told her. "Let's just get on with it, okay?"

Luna nodded. She crawled closer to Gale, her legs on the couch. "Now, you just lift your arm while I get comfortable."

Gale coughed a little. "O-O-Okay, sure." He lifted an arm and Luna crawled to his side. She curled into Gale with her legs slipping in-between his and her knees bent. She nestled her cheek on his should as she pressed her body into his.

Gale looked down at close. "So, uh… You good, Blondie?"

Luna nodded against him lazily as she closed her eyes. "Mmm-hmm," she murmured.

Gale slowly lowered his arm. He ended curling his arm around Luna's back and using a hand to pull her closer and to keep her steady. He dropped his head to nose his way into her hair and took a deep breath.

"You're really warm," Luna commented. "And don't you dare say it's because you're 'so hot'," she added hurriedly.

Gale chuckled. "Ya caught me red-handed, Blondie."

Luna sighed. "Are you okay? Does this feel okay?"

"More than okay," Gale murmured as he closed his eyes.

I've been wanting to hold you for so long. This is like a dream come true.

"How's your first time?" Luna joked. "Is it everything you could've hoped for even if it wasn't with a tall brunette?"

Gale snorted his amusement. "This is fine. I don't need a tall brunette to make this good or special. You're good enough."

Luna hummed. "One day, you'll be doing this with your own wife and it'll feel a lot better than with me since you'll love her."

"Eh. I don't really want to get married."

Luna pulled out of Gale's hold as she looked up at him in surprise, forcing him to adjust and open his eyes. "Wait, really?" she wanted to check. "You don't want to get married?"

Gale shrugged. "Not really something I've been considering. Marriage is kind of superficial to me. Or, more or less temporary when you don't marry the right person."

Luna did not think of that. "Huh… I guess so…"

"I like the bond my mom has to my old man. The dragon's mating and bonding technique." Gale sounded awed just talking about it. "It's even more powerful than two rings and a couple of 'I do's. It's permanent and it really shows their love. I want something like that in the future."

Luna had to agree. "I hope I have the same thing that my mama and papa have if I ever get married," she confessed.

Gale raised an eyebrow. "'If'?"

Luna ducked her head. "Mmm-hmm. I really want to build a strong career as a Mage and get a name for myself in the Magic World, just like everyone else in Fairy Tail. Marriage sounds really great, but I'd have to marry someone who would let me go on adventures and not expect me to have kids and always stay home to take care of them. And, also…" She played with her fingers. "I'm not exactly talented or that powerful. I don't have much to offer, anyways. So, I probably won't even be looked at for marriage." She gave Gale a smile. "But, that's okay! I have my friends to keep my company, so I'm never alone!"

Gale did not know what to say.

Blondie… How could you even think that about yourself?

Gale stopped Luna's hands with his own. He forced one of her hands to interlock with his. "No, you aren't ever alone," he agreed. "I won't ever leave you."

Luna chuckled. "You're my good friend so I know you won't leave, but…" Her eyes dimmed. "When you find that really special girl, Gale, you'll go away too. It happens. And I'll be okay with that."

Gale shook his head. "Even by the off chance I ever find a chick who can keep up with me, I still won't leave you. I'll let her know you come first. You'll always come first."

Luna did not know what to say as her eyes shimmered. "Gale… I…"

Gale brought her back into his hold. "Now, let's cuddle," he commanded. "It's nicer than I thought it would be."

Luna complied and snuggled into his neck and side. "Okay," she whispered. "But, what about Fantasia? Are we going to go see it?"

"Later," Gale promised. "I want to cuddle some more and watch the movie." He smirked. "Just don't get too handsy with me, Blondie. I know you like my body and all, so you can look, but not touch too much."

Luna blushed. "Who said I liked your body anyways?"

"You didn't have to say anything, but I know you were checking me out at the cathedral," Gale confessed. Luna only gasped and tried to get out of Gale's hold, but he did not let her go, grinning ear-to-ear. "Is the princess embarrassed she liked what she saw yesterday? Is that it?" he teased.

Luna struggled. "No!" she blurted. "Let me go!"

"It's okay, Blondie," Gale soothed. "I liked what I saw yesterday too."

Luna's face flamed red as her body when limp due to her embarrassment. "Oh, my God," she bellyached.

Gale pulled her back to him and patted her back. "There, there, Blondie-girl, I know I'm attractive, but damn. I didn't think I'd make you this blushy," he snickered.

"Stop it…!" Luna whined. "I-I-It wasn't like that! I just—! I—! I mean—!" She buried her head into his shoulder. "This is so embarrassing," she whispered.

Gale chuckled as he rubbed Luna's back, his eyes turning back to the movie. "And you're so cute when you're embarrassed," he murmured. "The princess diggin' the dragon. Sounds like the start of a fairytale I would actually like."

Luna only murmured incoherent words into Gale's shoulder.

"So, Blondie… About the guy who kissed you—"

"Ugh!" Luna got out of Gale's hold to glare up at him. "Enough about my first kiss and who it was with! Why does it matter anyways?"

Gale frowned when she pulled away from him and tried to get her back. "Just answer one question for me and I'll be done with the subject, all right? I'll never bring it up again."

Luna gave a long sigh. "Fine," she agreed. "What is it?"

"Was your first kiss as good as you thought it would be?"

Luna paused at the question. "Oh, um…" She racked her brain for an answer. "Well, no, not as good as I thought it would be," she had to confess. "I mean… It was kind of awkward and weird. I really liked him, though, so it didn't matter. It was far from perfect and full of fireworks, though."

Gale nodded in consideration. "So, then… What would your ideal kiss be?"

Luna hummed in thought. "Um, well, I never really thought about it," she admitted.

"But, if you got a kiss from whoever you liked, how would you want it to go?" Gale pressed.

Luna shot him a suspicious look. "Why do you want to know so badly?"

Gale adjusted and shrugged. "Just curious," was all he could come up with.

Luna eyed him, but went back to his original question. "Well, I guess I want it to be romantic," she supposed. "I'd want him to hold me really close like in the movies."

Gale's hand pulled Luna closer to him and held her tighter. "You mean like this?"

Luna nodded, a hand going onto Gale's chest to steady herself. "Um, yeah. Like that," she agreed, looking up at him.

Gale found a lock of hair falling into her face and used his other hand to take it and tuck it behind her ear. "Okay. What else?" he asked.

Luna swallowed. "I, um, I'm not too sure. I like it when you do that to my hair. I'd want him to do that to me too, I think… And, um…"

Gale leaned closer. "'And' what, Blondie?" he murmured, voice low.

"I, um…" A blush spread on Luna's cheeks as her eyes looked away from Gale's. "I don't really…"

"Look at me."

Luna pressed her lips together as she swallowed back a whimper. "No," she tried to defy.

Warm breath fanned her face. "Look at me," came a soft command.

"No, I… I can't," Luna fought back weakly.

Gale chuckled huskily. "I like it when you get all shy and pink. Makes you look cute, principessa."

"S-S-Stop," Luna whispered. "We shouldn't…"

"Want to know my ideal first kiss?" Gale asked her. "I'd be with my girl and I'd be holding her close to me. And she's be a mess, but I'd think she's cute anyways." He took his free hand and his thumb went to Luna's bottom lip to trace it. "She'd be awkward and I'd be hella scared too because she could do better, but she's with me."

"Wait," Luna said hoarsely. Her eyes flicked up. Soulful ruby connected intimately with confused, yet fond chocolate.

"Sono bojazzo per te," Gale murmured to her with his Stellian accent pleasing to the ears. "Lasciáme per bescarti. Gemessona."

"What does that mean?" Luna wanted to know as she tipped her head up.

Gale's free hand dripped down to Luna's hand. The two of them allowed their hands to tangle and interlock, clinging to each other. "It's nothing, principessa," he dismissed. He tilted his head as his lips came closer to hers.

Luna found her eyes closing as Gale leaned towards her. "I… Gale…"

B-BANG.

The screen door banged shut as footsteps filed into the house. "Lu! I'm home!" came Lucy's trill.

Luna jerked back from Gale at that. She looked at him wide-eyed.

Gale was angry they were interrupted and more upset Luna moved away from him. He reached out his hands for her. "Blondie—"

Luna shook her head and looked away. "I think you should go," she whispered.

Gale's expression broke. "Blondie…"

Lucy emerged from the hall and her eyes were pleasantly surprised when she saw Gale. "Oh, Gale! I didn't realize you were staying with Lu!"

Gale kept his searing gaze onto Luna. "I was planning on leaving, actually," he informed. "Just wanted to make sure she was settled in all right."

"That's really sweet of you," Lucy complimented. To her daughter, she spoke, "Lu, got get dressed. Hisui and Maddie want to meet you for ice cream. Why don't you walk Gale out?" she proposed as she went to the hallway leading to the kitchen.

Gale tried to reach for Luna. "Blondie—"

Luna abruptly stood up. "Come on. I'll walk you to the door." And she walked away from the couch and made a quick getaway for the hallway.

Gale was on his feet and chasing after her in a heartbeat after he grabbed his Compact. "Blondie!" he whisper-growled. He followed after her hurried pace to the door and caught up to her as she was reopening the main door. He pushed a hand onto it to close it once again, caging her. "Dammit, Blondie, don't run away from me," he snapped at her.

Luna did not want to turn around to face him. "Look, can't you just go already?" Her tone was wobbly and wet. It sounded like she was going to cry.

"Not without talking to you first," Gale argued. "Face me. I want you to look at me."

Luna sniffled. "N-N-No," she refused.

Gale sighed. "Blondie…"

Luna sniffled again and reluctantly turned around. She did not look at him as she rubbed away a stray tear with the butt of her palm. "What do you want?" she muttered.

Gale brushed aside Luna's hand to thumb away her straying tears. "I didn't mean to make you cry, principessa," he promised.

"It's not your fault," Luna soothed. "I don't know why I'm crying." She sniffed. "Nashi says to blame hormones when you don't understand what's happening."

"I'm still sorry," Gale apologized. "I shouldn't have pushed you and it shouldn't have happened." He ran a hand through his hair. "God, if Igneel found out, he might try to kill me."

"So, you regret it?" Luna sniffled. She rubbed her arm with a hand. "This was all a mistake to you?"

Gale cursed at his poor wording. "Blondie-girl, you are never going to be a 'mistake', you hear me?" he assured her. "It was my mistake to push you. You should be trying with a guy you deserve. Not some asshole like me."

Luna blinked owlishly. "But, I—"

A guitar solo ruined Luna's next words.

Gale dug into his pocket and pulled out his Compact. He growled and angrily shoved his Compact back into his pocket. "I gotta go," he said gruffly, "but this conversation isn't over. You're going to meet me right before Fantasia on the roof. I'll have dinner for us. We'll watch the parade together."

Luna noticed his commands and raised an eyebrow. "I don't have a choice?"

Gale smirked. "You always have a choice, Blondie. I'm just making it for you."

"Jerk," Luna muttered. "I'll be there."

Gale nodded. "Good." He leaned closer to give Luna a kiss on the forehead. "See ya later, principessa." He pushed himself away from her to open the door. Luna shuffled away from it as Gale slid out of the doorway and opened the screen door. He left without another word and Luna could only watch as he sprinted down the path like a man on a mission.

Luna's fingers went to her lips.

Gale…

"I hope you're getting ready, young lady," came Lucy's call.

Luna slowly snapped out of her daze. "Um, yeah, Mama, I am!" And, she shut the door.

°•°•°•°

Gale sprinted down the dirt toad. His jaw locked in his anger.

Dammit, he cursed. Why now out of all times?

It took him a hot second to reach the outskirts of Magnolia and, when he did, he slowed to a halt. He took out his Compact and looked into his messages. He went into a group chat between Mary Jane, Cane, and himself.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

❮ (DM) (FWC) (ℹ)

Devil Woman Fucker with Cards

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— Today 4: 46 —

Devil Woman

(DM) ⌜523. Meet me by Edika's ⌟

Fucker with Cards

(FWC) ⌜Omw ⌟

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Gale quickly typed his own message.

⌜Omw 2. Don't start w/o me. ⌟

He locked his Compact and put it back into his pocket. He took up running once again.

Finally. I've been itching to do this since yesterday. Just wait for me, Blondie. I promise—his expression darkened—this won't take long.

---

The door dinged open at Lillian's' Homemade Ice Cream. Rika looked up to welcome the newest customer. "Hello! We'll be right—!" Her greeting stopped when she saw it was Lucy and Luna walking into the shop. Her smiled broadened. "Well, well, well, if it isn't our fairy heroes," she teased as she took off her gloves to come from behind the counter.

Luna ducked her head in embarrassment. "Hi, Rika. I'm glad you're okay," she said sincerely.

Rika came up to Luna and swept her into a hug. "I'm glad you are too, Lu. I was really worried about everyone," she murmured. "Liv told me what happened with you, Gale, and Igneel." She pulled away to look at Luna with an expression of gratitude, fondness, and concern. "What you three did was amazing. Thank you for help save this city."

Luna flushed. "Everyone helped," she reminded. "I didn't really do as much as everyone else."

Lucy rested a hand on her daughter's shoulder and smiled down at her. "You might not have fought and won against familiars, but you did destroy a demon," she reminded as well. "You did wonderful, Luna. We're all proud of you."

Luna was awed at that. "Mama…"

Rika pulled back and drew herself to her full height. "Well, my ladies, I'll have you know Luna's godmother and her friend are in our private room upstairs." She pointed to the stairway entry where a guard was positioned, looking at everything. "I'll send ice cream up in just a few," she promised. She winked and waved as she walked away. "Have fun, you two!"

"Bye, Rika!" Lucy and Luna called.

Lucy nudged Luna forward. "Now, let's go see your godmother. She's been waiting to see you," she murmured.

Luna nodded, and the two of them walked through the shop to go to the guard. The guard wordlessly stepped aside so the two ladies would not have to break their stride. Instead, the climbed the staircase up to the second level. Another guard was there and watched them walk upstairs. She, too, moved aside for the two ladies and allowed them to emerge onto the second floor. The room was reserved for private get-togethers as well as birthday parties and other affairs. It looked like a small reception hall with a mini-bar, refrigerator, and microwave. Guards were at the perimeter of the room, but Luna did not care about them. Her eyes widened and her mouth curled into a beam when she saw them.

"Godmother!" Luna gushed. "And, Miss Maddie!"

Hisui and Maddie stopped eating their ice cream and having their conversation to look up as Luna rushed for them. Hisui beamed as she abandoned her cold treat to stand up and rush to Luna as well. When she met Luna, she lowered herself to sweep her goddaughter into an embrace.

"Godmother, I've missed you!" Luna confessed, nuzzling into Hisui's hold.

"I've missed you too, my fair lady," Hisui admitted and gave her a kiss on the cheek. "You brighten my week with our weekly calls."

Luna pulled away excitedly. "So, you're here for the Fantasia parade tonight?"

Hisui nodded. "Mmm-hmm! Might as well stay for the festivities, though I'll have to go undercover. Although, I was hoping I'd see my goddaughter doing her dance for the parade…"

Luna hung her head. "Sorry, Godmother," she mumbled.

Hisui softened. "There will be other Fantasia parades, my lady, and other dances," she promised. "I'm just happy everyone is cheerful and healthy. It's been such a long while since I've been in Magnolia City." She turned back to look at Madelia. "What about you, Maddie?"

Madelia smiled. "I never really stepped onto Magnolia soil. I was on that yacht for so long after living in Minstrel," she confessed.

Luna pulled out of Hisui's arms to run into Madelia's arms and give her a crushing hug. "Well, I hope you like my home and really like the parade! It's so good to see you!"

Madelia accept Luna's hug and closed her eyes. "You too, Lady Luna," she murmured. "I was afraid you might hate me for my actions that night."

Luna sharply pulled away with a furrowed brow look on her face. "Why would I be mad at you? You didn't do anything wrong. Borus did. You were trapped. I don't blame you at all," she said blatantly.

Madelia's eyes opened, shimmering in happiness. "You're too kind, Lady Luna, and I am lucky to consider myself your friend."

Luna beamed prettily. "How's life at the castle? Did you make some more friends? Do you like it there?" She wiggled her eyebrows teasingly. "Do you have a crush on someone?"

Madelia flushed pink. "I would not say 'crush' exactly, but…"

Luna squealed her excitement. "So, you do like someone!" she gushed. "Who is it?"

Hisui chuckled. "Maddie, Luna, why don't you two sit and talk some more? Lucy and I will be right back."

Luna nodded and pulled Madelia back to her seat. "Come on, Miss Maddie, you have to tell me!" she persisted.

Madelia flushed even more. "No, it is far too embarrassing!" she squeaked, shaking her head. "He's a bit older than me, so…"

Hisui and Lucy wandered to the other side of the room, their eyes looking at a shy Madelia and eager Luna. Hisui smiled softly. "She has such a good heart," she commented. "Just like her parents."

"Flattering me, Your Majesty?" Lucy teased. "Not like you at all."

"Just telling you the truth," Hisui said. She turned to Lucy with a look of concern. "How is everyone? How are you?"

"We're all doing better physically, if that's what you mean," Lucy assured. "With Fantasia coming up in a few hours, we all don't have time to dwell on what happened yesterday, but…" She sighed as she looked at Luna. Luna was making exaggerated hand gestures to Madelia who vigorously shook her head. "I can tell the guild is still shaken up about what happened. We all want answers, but no one has them. I mean how could a demon and that many familiars invade Magnolia when we've had defenses set for years so it wouldn't happen again? We're all confused. And, on top of that, with Gary, Nashi, and Luke…" She shook her head.

Hisui understood. "Lucy…"

"I don't want them to go through what Natsu, Gray, and I went through, but it seems like history is repeating itself," Lucy said despairingly.

"And look at how history shaped your future," Hisui brought up. "You and Natsu are in-love and with four kids. Natsu and Gray's bond is stronger than ever. If those three follow in your footsteps—"

"And, if they don't?" Lucy did not allow Hisui to answer. "I know how Nashi's feeling, but as for Gary and Luke… Do you know how long it took for Gray to trust Natsu to be alone with me? Do you know how long it took for Natsu to stop hating himself?" She looked down at her hand and looked at her wedding ring. She played with it. "I just don't want this to tear them apart."

Hisui put a hand on Lucy's shoulder. Calm jade matched worried chocolate. "I know you want what's best for them, but they have to fight this fight by themselves," she told. "Allow them to forgive, accept, and move on together, just like the three of you did. And, I promise, Lucy, they will reconcile."

Lucy sighed again. "I hope so," she mumbled. "Are we will on for next week?"

Hisui sharpened and nodded. "Yes," she murmured. "Don't be nervous, Lucy. Think of this like a parent-teacher conference."

Lucy snorted. "With the teachers being extremely powerful," she muttered. Her eyes flickered to her daughter who had been served her ice cream and indulged in playing a game with Madelia while the guards watched her in amusement. "She's so young," she whispered. "She's so innocent."

"And, I'll do everything to keep it that way," Hisui promised. "We all care for her and your family. We don't want to disrupt your lives, Lucy. You all deserve a normal life."

She smiled, half in bitterness and half in amusement. "With Fairy Tail, there's no such thing as 'normal'." She nodded. "Okay. I trust all of you and you know that."

Hisui smiled warmly. "We all love her like our own. She has that type of personality you just have to love." She softened. "Many wish they were as lucky as you to have such a family."

"Speaking of families," Lucy started, "how's—?"

"Fine." Hisui's voice was tight and left no more room for discussion.

Lucy moved away from prying. She gave a weak smile. "Come on. I'm sure Luna wants to talk your ear off," she chuckled as she walked away.

Hisui sighed.

I'm sorry, Lucy. It's complicated. But, hopefully, one day, I'll be able to fully express myself.

And, she walked to join the rest of them.

---

Igneel made his way down the street to Mary Jane's house with a bag in his hand.

She's going to love it and agree to come with me. She's going to love it. She has to love it.

His hand clenched on the hand of the bag.

She just has to.

A shrill voice called out to him and made him freeze. "Oh, my gosh! Is that my Iggy?"

Igneel paled.

Crap, not her.

He was whirled around and forced into a hug as Molly clung to him like a leech seeing a blood source. "Oh, Iggy! I've missed you!" Molly gushed.

Igneel forced a painful smile onto his face. "Hi, Molly. Think you can let me go now?"

Molly did just that after giving him a fat kiss on the cheek, making him give a noise of surprise. She beamed up at him with lovesickness in her eyes. "I've missed you, Iggy!" She pouted at him. "You never called me back or even messaged me!"

Igneel tugged at his scarf as he tried to come up with excuses. "Um, well, thing is…"

Come on. Just tell her like MJ said I should.

Igneel took a deep breath. "Look, Molly, I don't—"

Molly stepped closer to Igneel. "So, when are you going to ask me to the Fantasia parade? You're doing fireworks, right?"

Igneel looked bewildered at that. "Wait, what? How did you—?"

Molly rolled her eyes playfully as she took out her Compact. "See, Jeannie told Yoko told Marie told Ven told Meema told this guy she's going to the parade with that you were doing fireworks tonight since Romeo can't tonight," she explained as though simple. She shoved him the scroll of messages on her Compact. "See, Iggy-baby?"

Igneel's eyes widened at the thread of conversation revolved around him. He grew hot with discomfort as he saw how gushed over he was for his body and charm. "That's, um…nice?" he guessed uneasily. "Molly, look, I'm not—"

"So, what should I wear tonight?" Molly asked him. "I want to match you with color, but can we not where yellow or orange. It washes out my skin and we don't want that and—"

"Molly, I don't like you!" Igneel blurted.

Molly blinked at him in confusion. "Huh? What do you mean?"

Igneel tried to explain it without hurting her. "Molly, you're really great and cheery and you're very pretty, but I don't…like you, like you, you know?"

Molly tried to make sense of his wording. "You don't…'like'…me?"

Igneel sighed. "Molly, I'm sorry I—"

"You love me?!"

Igneel's eyes bulged as the life nearly drained out of him. "Come again?" he wheezed.

Molly clung to Igneel with hearts in her eyes and love coming off her in waves. "Oh, my gosh, Iggy-baby, I love you too for five-ever!" she squealed. "I didn't want to tell you just that because I thought you weren't ready for commitment, but oh, my gosh! I can't wait to tell my school I'm dating the Igneel Dragneel of Fairy Tail!"

Igneel broke away from Molly's hold, wincing. "Ow," he muttered to himself. Louder, he asked Molly, "Um, please don't do that. And, have you seen MJ?" He lifted the bag to show her. "I have something for her. Actually, I was going to ask her to come with me to do fireworks," he confessed.

Molly brushed it off. "Don't worry. You're not ready to commit and I'll wait for you," she assured. "But, Mary Jay-Jay left a little while ago. I tried seeing where you were, but she told me she didn't know. I asked her where she was doing and she said she had a date to get to." She sighed dreamily. "I'm so happy for her. Maybe she's found her true love like I found mine."

Igneel was stuck being stunned at the news.

MJ…has a date…?

Molly noticed the change in Igneel's expression and tipped her head, frowning. "What's wrong, Iggy-baby?"

Igneel shook his head and offered her a feeble smile. "Nothing, Molly. I just remembered how much work I have to do at the guild, that's all." He clenched the bag's handles. "I, uh, have to go." He shoved the bag towards Molly. "Can you give this to MJ when she comes home?"

Molly frowned and nodded. "Yeah, sure. But, Igneel… Are you sure you're okay?"

Igneel ducked his head, shadowing his eyes. "Yeah, I'm fine. I just have to go, so, bye, Molly." And, he ran off.

Molly tried to stop him. "Wait, Igneel!" She found her effort would be in vein and stopped calling him. She looked down at the bag and curiosity got the best of her. She opened the bag and her eyes widened. Inside the bag was something she never expected. She looked back up to see Igneel growing smaller and smaller in the distance. A wistful smile wove onto her face.

So, even after all this time, huh, Igneel?

Molly sighed as she looked up at the sky.

Mary Jane… I'm so jealous of you.

---

Nighttime had come as Magnolia stirred. Fiore Guards had taken to clearing the route. This year, the route was not on solid land. The route was on the canals surrounding the mainland of Magnolia City. The boots that went up and down the canals had made their last runs and were given designated spots to dock in. The bridges connecting the island to the mainland was being cleared out as new bridges of water were formed over head for the floats to cross. Everyone had taken to setting up for the parade. Vendors and artists had made booths to sell their food, their paint and drawings, and balloons that had light inside them. The route would then circle back and crawl onto dry land where the entire parade would meet at Kardia Cathedral for the priest to deliver his prayer and speech for the Harvest Festival. From there, the parade would break off into a party at the square with live music and the fireworks show would end the night.

Everyone of Fairy Tail was on their last minutes of touch-ups and tune-ups of their Fantasia costume, hair, make-up, and even their routines while at the place of meeting for all those taking part in Fantasia. Some members were finished and fans of Fairy Tail were in the parade swarmed them with praises and questions. Liberty was dressed in the attire of a grass skirt with a red and white lei. She had flower bracelets on her ankles and wrists and had a white flower crown. She spoke to kids in their class fervently with James begging for her attention in mews. Mira was dressed in her rock star attire with Fairy Tail's mark painted over one eye. She has dressed in a blue number that made her eyes pop. It flared to just before her knees and she wore white booties to go with it. She was speaking to some of her male fans, but every man did not dare touch her while her husband watched their every move. Dazzler, in her stage magician costume of a white tailcoat and fishnet stockings, was doing small tricks to wow a crowd. She looked up hopefully to see if Mustang was watching, but the Bosconeese Cowboy was too busy cleaning motorcycle to notice much.

Ena was working with the costumes while Ellie followed her as a loyal assistant with a clipboard in hand. Ena was fixing a stiff Thirteen's costume. It was a glorified, pinstripe suit with a fedora. He flinched when she added the final touches and she growled at him.

"Stop squirming and take it like a man," Ena snapped as she extracted a pin from the suit and put it in her pin cushion.

Thirteen grumbled. "Why the Hell am I in a suit for this?"

⌜FAIRY TAIL

Name: Thirteen

Age: 36

Occupation: Mage, Intelligence

Magic: Unknown

Likes: jazz and blues Dislikes: cats

Special Note: Thirteen might have come from the world of mafia and gangs, but when you see him on saxophone, you'll think he came right out of a club! ⌟

A new voice perkily answered. "Because we're the music for tonight!" A violin played a three-chord harmony, then fluttered down the scale. Vinyl came around with her violin. She was dressed in a summer dress of light green with real flowers bordering her dress and swirls of nature on the material. Her arms sleeves were puffy and told the story of wind and sky. Her hair had been poised into an up-do with a butterfly clip and her heels a fluttering gold with butterflies on her heels. Near her eyes were a few jewels and her eyelids were extended so they had wings as they fluttered.

⌜MAGNOLIA TOWN

Name: Aoide Viñella "Vinyl" de la Muse

Age: 24

Occupation: Mage, Musician/Composer

Magic: Música Magic

Likes: composing Dislikes: etudes

Special Note: Just like Lucy, Vinyl is through being part of a rich family of high expectations and no affection. She came to Fairy Tail to become the world's great composer through Magic! ⌟

Thirteen glanced at his saxophone and grumbled again. "I'm too old for this," he muttered.

Vinyl only laughed as she twirled around Thirteen, playing a light-hearted melody. "Come on, Thirteen, don't tell me you're actually 'Thirty'?" she teased. "I like it when you play saxophone!" She paused in her twirls as she ended the melody with a strong down bow. "It sounds…saxy," she joked huskily.

Thirteen glanced at her from his mask, then looked away and grumbled something incoherently. He stood still as Ena continued to work her magic.

Aine looked at her princess attire. She was dressed as a cross between Snow White and Cinderella with a pit of Fairy Princess mixed in with her wings. The material shimmered with each movement she did and her wings stuck to her back, fluttering due to the spell they were under. "This is quite beautiful," she had to compliment as Erza did the final touches on Aine's dress.

Erza stepped back and looked at the costume proudly. "Ena truly knows what she's doing," she complimented. "You and Lance will perform the fairy dance wonderfully."

Aine laughed. "I hope so. I've been a nervous wreck since Capricorn and Libra have been teaching us the dance for weeks now, but I'm afraid I might get it wrong."

"And if you do, you keep going," Erza reminded. "Just focus on Lance and you'll be fine." Her eyes softened. "I know your father would think you will do great."

Aine softened as well. "Thanks, Mom," she whispered.

Silver looked rather dashing in his ice-skating attire. He had gone with a regal look with a blue tailcoat that had waves of varies blues always shimmering from it. His hair had been gelled and slicked back and, at the moment, a make-up artist was finishing off his face. "I'm so excited to do my routine this year!" he gushed as he sat in a chair at the make-up station next to Julia who flipped through a magazine as someone finished her hair. "I hope my beloved Paige is impressed with it!" Hearts entered his eyes as he sighed lovingly. "Oh, my beloved Paige… I'll skate tonight and hope my heart reaches out to yours!"

"Achoo!" Paige rubbed her nose as her stylist added the finishing touches to her hair. She glared around. "Someone must be talking about me." She shuddered. "And it has to be that stupid creep."

Mayor Elric stepped into the meeting place with a bullhorn. "Attention to all! The parade shall begin in no less than ten minutes. This is your warning!"

Lucy helped Nashi tie the strap for her ensemble. She was dressed as a traditional shrine maiden with geta sandals. Nashi bit her lip. "You think we'll be okay?" she wanted to know. "I haven't seen Gary since Ena took him away for his fitting."

"You two will be fine," Lucy assured. She had already changed into her celestial clothing of a strapless top that exposed her midriff. She wore a golden skirt and wedged sandals with her hair styled in a queenly up-do with a crown on her head. "As long as you both remember the routine, you should be great."

Nashi was still a jumble of nerves. "I mean the rehearsal went okay, but what if we lose the chemistry?"

Lucy adjusted Nashi's top. "You won't," she promised. "Don't worry too much. Have faith in yourselves."

Nashi sighed. "Okay…"

Gary had taken to hiding himself away from the crowd. He was dressed in a dark blue kimono and his hair was pulled back into a little ponytail. He had taken to leaning against a tree and trying to soothe himself.

You'll be fine. You have to be fine for Angel. We can do this. I can't let her down again.

CRUNCH. CRUNCH.

"So, this is where you've been hiding," came a comment.

Gary looked up and his eyes dimmed a bit. "Oh… Hello," he said quietly.

It was Luke staring up at Gary with an unreadable face. He was dressed in a sleeveless trench coat of orange with black sleeveless gloves. His hair had been slicked back as well. "That's all you have to say for yourself, huh?" he wanted to know.

Gary flinched and shied away. "I…" His mouth was going dry. "I'm… I…"

Luke held up a hand for silence. "I don't want any 'sorry's from you. Right now, they're meaningless." He said it as a dead fact and nothing cynical. "I don't hate you, but I don't trust you either. Especially not with Nashi."

Gary hung his head.

"But…"

Gary picked up his head to see Luke giving him a hard hazel stare.

"…you have one more chance with her," Luke told. "If you ever hurt her intentionally, then I'll fight you myself. I might not be S-Class, but I'll make sure I beat you for hurting her."

"I'd beat myself up too," Gary promised. "Thank you, Luke. I won't let your kindness go to waste."

Luke gave a stiff nod and walked away.

Gary smiled a little.

I'm glad he's given us another chance. Now, let's make sure I don't lose it.

---

Luna pushed her way through the gathering masses to get to the main steps that would get her to Fairy Tail. The energy of Magnolia was high as everyone talked excitedly about how gorgeous the Fantasia parade normally was.

Wow. Everyone getting so hyped has me getting hyped too, Luna thought.

A charming ringtone made Luna pause. She dug into her pocket to pull out her Compact and see that Gale was calling her. She answered it and put it to her ear. "What's up?" she wondered. "I should be at Fairy Tail in—"

"Forget Fairy Tail. Just walk up the steps."

Luna dodged through the crowd as she spoke. "Wait, what? Are we not getting dinner?"

Gale chuckled. "Always thinking about food, aren't you?" he teased.

Luna growled. "Oh, shut your mouth." She reached the steps and began to climb them. "Maybe I should just turn back," she sassily decided.

"Like you would stand me up," Gale snorted. "I have you wrapped around my finger."

"I think I have you wrapped around mine," Luna rebutted.

Gale muttered into the call, "Damn right about that. I guess I'm the princess' bitch."

Luna giggled. "Okay. So, where are we meeting instead of Fairy Tail?"

"Look up and to your left, principessa."

Luna did just that and her jaw dropped. The grassy hillside was becoming a picnic area with blankets set up for those to watch the parade. However, built into the grassy hillside was a balcony. On it was a table for two with candles glow.

Gale stood there in a changed outfit than hours before. He changed into a button down with the sleeves rolled up and jeans. He grinned like a fool when he caught Luna's expression and murmured into the Compact, "How's this for dinner?"

Luna put down her Compact and ended the call, Gale mimicking her. "Just…what…? Oh!" She squeaked when she felt the earth move from beneath her. The stone beneath her slid from its place to elevate her to the balcony. When it pulled to an abrupt stop, Luna stumbled onto the balcony and into a hard chest.

"Wow. You really can't keep your hands off me, can you?" came a tease.

Luna looked up to see Gale widening his grin at her. "Hey," he greeted.

"Hi," Luna said back. She recomposed herself and got off of Gale. She looked around the balcony as she brushed off any dirty. "You really made this? This is beautiful."

Gale kept his eyes on Luna as she went to admire his handiwork. "Wasn't too hard," he brushed off. "Had to plead for my mom to let me take a table and two chairs and everything else. Once she found out it was for you, she was more than happy to let me."

Seriously. She even started giving me dating advice.

Luna turned back to Gale with a warm look in her eye. "This is lovely, Gale. You didn't have to do this."

"I wanted to." Gale walked over to a chair and pulled it out. "Besides, if we're watching the parade, we're going to do it in style. Your chair, principessa."

Luna stifled her laughter as she went over to the chair and sat down. As she was pushed in, she had to say, "My, my. I was always told dragons had no manners at all."

Gale went to his side of the table and sat down. "Perhaps you just hadn't met the right one," he joked back with a wink.

Luna hummed as she allowed her chin to rest on her folded hands and propped arms. "Maybe," she supposed. "May I ask what is for dinner tonight, Mister Dragon?"

Gale thought about it. "If I said, 'you', would you agree?"

Luna tried not to laugh, but let out a giggle. "Sorry, but no. I'd like to live a little longer."

Gale gave a dramatic sigh. "Then, I guess we can have this." He snapped his fingers. Steaks appeared on their plate with sides of cheesy mashed potatoes and their glasses were filled with lemonade.

Luna mockingly gasped. "Oh, my! How did you do that?"

"Magic, my dear princess," Gale answered mysteriously. "Intrigued?"

"Religiously," Luna responded heavily. "Will you show me more?"

Gale smirked. "All right. One more trick for the lady." He cupped his hands together. A glow of black pulsed from his hands. He uncovered his hands to reveal a gemstone marble. It was fluorite in its swirling bubble of violet. He gifted it to Luna. "For you, principessa."

Luna took the stone and looked at it in wonder. "Is that…?"

Gale nodded. "Yup. That's our little snaky friend in his true form."

Luna put the marble on the table and sighed. "I wish he was the last one."

"I do too," Gale agreed. "These bastards shouldn't be seeing the light of day." He shook his head. "Let's not talk about demons or familiars or any dark shit. Let's just eat and watch the Fantasia parade. Sound good?"

Luna smiled. "Really good," she corrected. As she picked up her cutlery, she had to know. "Did you cook this?"

Gale puffed his chest in pride as he got his own fork and knife. "That I did. Prepare to eat your heart out, principessa."

Luna cut into her steak and cut off a piece. She took it into her fork and added mashed potatoes, then she took a bite. As she chewed, her eyes widened. She swallowed and looked at her meal in splendor. "So good," she breathed.

Gale closed his eyes and crossed his arms. "I knew you'd like it, Blondie."

I even used my old man's special ingredient. One bite should taste like half a steak. There's no way she'll be able to eat it all right away, so she has to take her time.

Luna let out a little burp and covered her mouth. "Oh, excuse me," she pardoned. She rubbed her stomach and closed her eyes. "Man, that was all so good…!" she moaned.

Gale's shot his eyes open when he saw her empty plate. "Where the Hell do you put it all?!" he gasped.

Luna eyed his plate hungrily. "Are you going to finish that?"

Gale merely gawked. Then, he burst into laughter. "You really back it away, Blondie! I don't know how any man will date you with a stomach like that!"

"You're such a stupid jerk!" Luna growled back, shaking her fist.

In a sudden bout, the lights of Magnolia began to shut down in sections. Gale and Luna were entranced as Magnolia blacked out with the only thing lighting it the balloons with light inside them.

Luna eagerly got up from her seat to go to the railing of the balcony. "It's starting! Gale, it's starting!"

Gale chuckled as he got up to place himself beside her. "I know, I know."

Everyone watched in baited breath for Fantasia to start. The first thing they heard was synthetic noise that sounded bright and poppy. Cellos came in with a counter melody as the synthetic beat kept going.

Four spotlights hit the cathedral as Lacrima Screens appeared everywhere in Magnolia. The spotlights aimed for the roof, but there was no one on it. Then, all of a sudden, a poof of smoke exploded on the roof. Everyone watched as the smoke began shift and morph as it tried to take shape.

"Ladies and gentlemen, cabelleros y cabelleras, monsieurs et madames—we welcome you to a night of music and Magic! Welcome to…" The smoke swirled and took its final form. Dazzler came from the smoke in her shining costume and cane. She stopped twirling to raised her cane into the air. "…Fantasia!" A burst of Magic shot off from her cane and into the air. The sky was graced with a series of fireworks that danced in the night-sky.

The audience oohed and aahed at Dazzler's theatrics.

Dazzler lowered her staff onto the ground in front of her and but her hand on its head. "And let the night of music and Magic…begin!" She threw a smoke bomb and was quick to disappear off the roof with the spotlights turning off.

Darkness.

Silence.

Anticipation.

"Look, Mama! The water!" came a whisper from a small child.

Luna looked down and gasped. The water was glowing. Ethereal lights of emerald and cerulean flowed through the canals. It looked almost unreal the way the canals lit up. Everyone was gasping and commenting on the lights of the sea. It was spectacle they only saw once a year. Of course it would excite them.

Luna heard the music begin to pick up its tempo as the orchestration fell into a swell of notes and crescendoes. She moved closed to Gale. "Here they come!" she whispered.

And here they came.

A trumpet fanfare welcomed the floats of Fantasia and their dancers. The first float was decorated outrageously. Dazzler had appeared out of thing air on the float and waved her cane. At her command, a circus of animals and artists appeared on her float, making everyone cheer and yell. People looked up to see a troupe of flamboyant acrobats walk and flip between buildings on a tight rope. People moved out of the way two clowns did a duo performance, making them laugh. Luke and Penelope appeared on the second float. They were mediating as the aura of Magic pulsed around them and made them float. Together, they forged orbs of water and allowed them to wander all throughout the parade and the streets. People were amazed as they watched the Magic before them. Lisanna was dressed in a wet suit inspired by a swordfish. She burst from one orb of water and transformed herself into a seal and fell into another orb of water. The triplets followed after their mother, bursting from water orb to orb and flashing the audience cute smiles. Aisha was dressed in a pink and ruffed wet suit and swam around in her orb of water, waving to those on the street. Pierre Marco, the head chef of Fairy Tail, was cooking on his food-oriented float and allowed Fairy Tail members to serve his creations on the streets.

As more and more floats and performers came, the energy of Magnolia increased into shouts of happiness. Mira was singing on her own float and got the crowd to sing with her. Lance and Aine were dancing to a waltz as their float was theme to be a prince and princess float. Elfman had turned into a beast with Evergreen waiting in a tower for someone to rescue her. Nashi and Gary tangled with each other in dance. Both of them effortlessly transcended from their costumes and into their Angel and Devil forms, taking to the skies to dance the dance of forbidden lovers. Ellie fluttered by in her swings and everyone was entranced as flowers grew around them. Silver was skating on the water. He looked graceful in his costume as he skated on water. Everyone was astounded how someone could glide on water, but what more to expect from the Prince of the Sea? Thirteen and Vinyl played together with a jazz band and strings behind them. Cane and Cana would conjure objects out of cards to appease the crowds while Levy would write out words in her Magic. Justin had taken to his acrobatic act with Liberty as the two swung from high measures. Freed had taken to flying in his dark wings while Bixslow and his babies dazzled the crowd. Paige worked with Bruno on a series of tricks no normal dog could handle. Mystogan displayed his heavenly gift by making his Pegasus stampede go through the night sky. The Iron Twins took land and sky with Iron Maiden flying through the air and the Iron Man on stage.

Many Mages were on the ground as well. Cade le Fay was displaying his Take Over Magic: Knight Soul with his skateboard turned into trusty steed Llamrei. Number Thirteen entranced her crowd with her footwork. Happy and Panther Lily danced to music, Panther Lily more embarrassed than anything. Ellie helped give out candy with Mara, Kinana, and Orochi.

Lucy and her Celestial Spirits were performing amazing tricks to a routine they designed. Gray and Juvia used water and ice around the parade for more performers to slip, slide, and skate on while the Rain Woman and Ice Wizard danced on their creation. Natsu had his own float of a volcano. He erupted from the volcano in his scales and gave a mighty roar for everyone to hear. He breathed out fire for all to see his flames. Gajeel, in his iron scales and slitted eyes, Wendy, with her pink hair and winged arms, and Laxus, in his electric scales, all roared in correspondence to their king and allowed their roars to flow into Magic. And Erza, the Guild Master of Fairy Tail, allowed her swords to circle the flames of the dragons as she became the queen of Fairies.

Luna was captivated at Fantasia. Everything was sparkling and aglow and reflected in her eyes. "This is so cool!" she gushed. "I really wish we could've participated this year, but it's awesome watching it happen!"

Gale slid from his position next to Luna to being behind her. He wrapped his arms around her and allowed his chin to drop on her head. "Yeah. It's pretty cool," he admitted. "I'm kind of glad I had to sit out this year. I wasn't down for wearing little Fernandes' costume and being a street performer."

Luna giggled. "I would've loved to see the great earth dragon reduced to a dancing monkey."

Gale playfully growled. "Like I'd ever stoop to that low," he reminded. "Not even all the jewel in the world could get me to do that."

"Not even I could?" Luna asked.

Gale hummed. "Mmm… Maybe if you asked me nicely and I got something in return…"

Luna turned around in Gale's hold to look up at him in innocent curiosity. "Like what?"

Gale smirked to himself. "Like…" He was quick duck down and scoop Luna up. He placed her on the stone railing as she let out a little scream of surprise. His smirk broadened. "Seeing your priceless face when you're surprised," he negotiated.

Luna puffed a cheek. "You stupid jerk," she growled. "That was uncalled for!"

"Oh, no, principessa, that was so called for and definitely worth it," Gale cackled.

Luna pouted. "I don't like you."

"Because you love me," Gale corrected. "No woman can resist a dragon."

Luna cocked an eyebrow. "Not like you're that good-looking or charming," she muttered. "You're just an ugly jerk-face."

Gale laughed. "I can always rely on you, Blondie, to talk up my game," he teased. "You're not so bad yourself. Maybe not as hot as me, but you show potential."

"Oh, goodie. Just what I like to see: 'potential'," Luna muttered, looking away from him.

Gale prodded Luna's arm. "C'mon, Blondie, I'm just kidding," he promised. "You know you have the stuff. You aren't just 'potential' to me."

Luna sighed loudly. "I know, it's just—…" She looked back at Gale with big eyes. "Do you really think I have what it takes?" Her tone was low and her voice wavered with doubt.

Gale knew what she meant and softened. He allowed his hand to brush back her hair. "Without a doubt, Blondie-girl," he murmured. His hand went to her cheek and Luna leaned into it, closing her eyes at his touch. "You have what it takes and then some. And I'm going to be cheering you on every step of the way."

"Thank you." Luna opened her eyes to shoot him a grateful look that spoke volumes. "You're the greatest friend I could have."

"Ditto, principessa," Gale murmured. He glanced behind Luna, then his eyes slid back onto hers in mischief. "Come on. We better take our places for the firework show. Your bro is going to be starting it soon."

As Gale moved back for Luna to get down, Luna cocked her head in confusion. "This isn't the spot for fireworks?"

Gale shook his head as Luna jumped down. "Nah. I got us the best sees in the house and it's all for us." He offered his hand to her. "You in?"

Luna smiled. "Let's go." She took his hand.

Gale's grin broadened. "Then, haul some ass. We've got a bit of ground to cover."

---

Igneel finished setting up his work and got the dirt off his hands. "All set up and finished. I just need Master's signal," he muttered. He had set up the fireworks and would be using his own Magic to create specialized fireworks right by the water. He sat on the boardwalk right by the water and looked up at the starry sky.

I bet Fantasia went awesome. Everyone was practicing so hard.

His eyes softened.

Wish I was out there too. Kinda wanted to see MJ in a princess costume.

Igneel stretched and flattened himself onto the ground. "But, she's on some stupid date," he yawned. He settled with his arms behind his head and his eyes closed. "Bummer. It's always more fun with MJ."

CRUNCH. CRUNCH. CRUNCH.

"I highly doubt that, moron," came a mutter.

Igneel opened his eyes to see Mary Jane giving him an appraising look from above. Excitement got the best to him as he quickly got to his feet. "MJ, you're here!" he breathed.

Mary Jane crossed her arms. "This isn't something I wanted to do," she told him, blunt. "Molly gave me that little 'gift' you left for me." A tick mark was on her head. "It was not appreciated."

Igneel laughed. "What do you mean? I thought you'd like it!"

Mary Jane closed her eyes as her eyebrow twitched. She remembered the pulling out the gift and finding it was a photograph of her and Igneel. She was sleeping normally on her side, but Igneel had curled up to her and taken a photo. "Why would I like a photo that basically shows you broke and enter into my house and took a creepy picture of me while I was sleeping?" she growled. "Pisses me off. I should sue you."

Igneel merely brushed off her words. "You look so cute in that picture, MJ," he gushed. "You even drooled a little!"

"And, what the Hell was up with your little note?" Mary Jane snapped at him. "'Hey, MJ. This is only a copy. Meet me at the boardwalk behind Fairy Tail or else the photo is posted on the job's board'?" Static came off her. "Do you want to die, moron? You're seriously pissing me off!"

Igneel waved his hands as he laughed nervously. "Hey now, let's not get too hasty!"

Mary Jane took a step towards him as static crackled around her. "How dare you take that picture of me!" she raged as her static pulsed, growing with her anger. "You stupid—!"

Both flinched when blue static shot from Igneel and hit Mary Jane's own lightning.

Mary Jane lost her static to look at him in puzzlement. "What did you just do?"

Igneel looked down at his hands in confusion. "I don't…know," he drawled, perplexed himself.

Lance told me the lightning inside me wouldn't react just yet to anyone. It needed time to get used to me and my emotions. But… How could it react without me wanting it to?

Mary Jane shook her head. "Lance told me he passed on lightning to you, but I didn't think it'd stick around," she commented.

"I didn't either," Igneel said truthfully.

"Static reaction usually happens between Lightning Mages," Mary Jane told him. "My static goes off when my dad or my brother are near me. But, I guess since you apparently know Lightning Magic, you'll start to sense others too. Welcome to the family. We're so happy to have you."

Igneel waved side-to-side in a comically happy manner. "MJ, you're too kind to me!"

Mary Jane sweatdropped. "That was called 'sarcasm', you moron."

A burst of Magic shot up in the air only to disappear as it grew higher and higher.

Igneel perked at that. "Oh, crap. That's my cue!" He was about to run to set off the fireworks when a hand on his shoulder stopped him. He looked back to see Mary Jane looking at him with a grin. "MJ…?"

"Allow me to do the honors, Dragneel," Mary Jane asked for. Without waiting for permission granted, she took her hand off Igneel's shoulder and pointed her finger at the first set of fireworks. Lightning came out of her fingertips and lit the tails of the fireworks aflame.

Igneel gave Mary Jane a warm smile. "Thank you, MJ."

Mary Jane shrugged. "Not like it was that—"

"No. Thank you for helping Luna get to us," Igneel told her. "She told Gale and I it was you who brought her to us. We were a little pissed, but, in the end, she really saved us."

The tails were half charred and the flames ate more of it to get to the explosion.

Mary Jane had to smile at the mention of Luna. "I don't like people, but she's pretty all right. Needs some help in the confidence department, but she's okay," she complimented.

Igneel turned to face her. "She's not the only one who's 'pretty all right'." He stepped towards her.

The firework tails were just about to be completely eaten by flames.

Mary Jane's eyes widened as Igneel was directly in front of her. She looked at him in her normal scowl. "Get away from m—!"

Igneel's arms shifted. "You're one of the bravest people I know," he murmured to her. "I know about everything you did."

The flames were chewing on the last centimeters.

"So, thank you…"

The flames finished their meal and the fireworks shot into the sky.

And Igneel hugged Mary Jane, catching her by surprise.

"…Mary Jane."

And the fireworks exploded in the night sky in a flurry of violet, red, and blue.

---

Gale kicked open the door to Fairy Tail as the sound of booming fireworks reverberated in the sky. "Come on, Blondie! We've gotta move! The show started!" he told her.

Luna tried to keep up as Gale led her into Fairy Tail. The guild hall was technically closed for the evening. Not even the employees were in Fairy Tail were in the guild hall. It was abandoned. "Gale, I can't keep up!" Luna whined as Gale ran them to the bar counter. "We're already missing the show!"

Gale lifted the flap and pushed Luna to go before him before closing it. "We'll make it, Blondie! Have some faith." He grabbed her hand again and led her into the kitchen. He navigated them to the stairwell and pulled Luna up the spiral staircase. From the windows near the staircase, you could see the display the glow the fireworks casted on the land. A series of reds and oranges and golds and greens and blues and violets and whites bled onto the land.

When they arrived at the top, Gale roughly opened the door and hauled himself onto the roof. He turned around and helped Luna onto the roof as well as the explosions went off in the sky. Luna found herself mesmerized at the light she saw. Fireworks were not just fireworks. They were works of art that last for five to seven seconds. You should not take your eyes off the sky or you would miss the splendor of them. Some them did not have the same shape of the others. Some of them made spirals. Others made waves of colors. Others fizzled in the air. Each new explosion of color was different than the next.

"Beautiful," Luna gasped. She left Gale for the railing to watch the spectacles of light and color. "Oh, wow!"

"Like it?" Gale asked as he joined her.

"Love it," Luna corrected absently. "This… This is amazing!"

It was then the fireworks began to change. They were not just bursts of light. They had the Fairy Tail spin on them. Fireworks of the chibi-faces of guild members went up and into the air along with various shapes and symbols that represented them. The audience whooped and hollered at their favorite Fairy Tail members. Genius, Mustang, and Ghost showed up with a controller, a gun, and a ghost came with them respectively. Thirteen was paired with his saxophone while Vinyl was paired with a violin and music notes surrounded their chibi-faces. Bruno showed up with a bone. Luna had to laugh when she saw Cane's smug chibi-face with card-women surrounding him as well as booze.

"Way to go, Igneel!" Luna shouted. She let out a happy sigh. "He must be having so much fun out there. I'm so happy and grateful we all came back alive to do this. It's moments like this in Fairy Tail that make me more and more grateful every day for what we have."

Gale's hand went to Luna's wrist to trace the aquamarine bracelet. "You could've died, you know," he reminded her.

"And, so could've you and my brother and Lance." Luna turned to Gale. "But, we didn't. Stop worrying so much about me."

Gale snorted. "Well, when you're pulling stupid shit, I have to worry," he retorted. "The Magic World ain't so easy to come back from without any scars. I've got plenty to show my screw-ups and my victories."

Luna raised a teasing eyebrow. "What, we're going to stop being friends the second my flawless skin gets a scar? I didn't think dragons cared about looks."

"We don't," Gale assured. "Scars just add to the hot factor, Blondie."

Luna chuckled. "Okay. Then, what's the issue?"

Gale shook his head. "I'm just worried what's going to happen in the next fight," he admitted. "The stakes are getting higher. One slip-up and we're done for. That's the life of a Guild Mage. Unlike people in regular jobs, we don't get second chances. When we take harder missions, we know one wrong move could end up with us hospitalized. I've seen it and I've been there. I just don't want you to get there too."

Luna lightly flicked Gale's forehead, stunning him. She shot him a beautiful smile. "I knew getting hurt would be part of the job. Not every job I come back from will end up with me hurt, though, not if I can help it. That's why training is so important. I want to grow stronger so I can get hurt less. It sucks I might break an arm or get a concussion, but it's something I'll have to live with."

"Alone?"

Luna blinked. "What?"

"Are you going to live with it alone?" Gale wanted to know.

Luna furrowed her eyebrows. "I didn't really think about it," she told him. "I mean, technically, since I can go on missions, I should probably find a partner or a team. I thought maybe I could team up with Ena and Silver or maybe—"

"Be my partner."

Luna's eyes widened.

BOOM.

Erza's chibi face exploded in the night sky with swords swirling around her.

"What?" Luna whispered.

Gale did not break away from their stare. "Be my partner," he reiterated.

Erza's voice cut off the conversation as she announced from her float, "And, now, ladies and gentlemen, the moment you have been waiting for!"

---

Erza requipped back into her noble attire of a kimono with the Fairy Tail insignia painted on the back. Her face was displayed on every Lacrima Screen in Magnolia as she lifted her hand and a microphone catching her every word. "It is time to declare the winner of the Grand Harvest Battle Royale!"

The whole audience cheered as they desperately wanted to hear the name.

"And, the winner is…"

---

Igneel grinned as he charged his flames. "All right. This one is for you!" He lifted his hands and allowed a ball of fire to burst from in-between his hands and into the air.

---

Luna tried to wrap her head around this. "Gale…" She looked away. "I can't," she ultimately rejected. "You need someone strong and dependable. I'm just starting out. You should find someone you can rely on."

"And, I can rely on you," Gale insisted. "Look at me."

Luna pulled her eyes onto his. Sad chocolate clashed with intense ruby.

"You are the one I want to watch my back," Gale assured her. "You want me to find someone 'strong and dependable'? Think about yourself fitting that description. You are everything I'm looking for in a partner." He smirked faintly. "And you're kind of cute too. So, that's a plus."

Luna's eyebrow twitched. "'Kind of'?" she echoed.

Gale took her head into his own large ones. "Come on, Blondie, what do you say?"

Luna bit her lips, uncertainty crossing her features. "I…"

"…Luna Dragneel!" came Erza's roar.

BOOM. B-B-BOOM.

Luna's eyes widened as she snapped her head away from Gale to look into the night sky. There was her chibi face in the air with a blush on her cheeks and herself winking at the crowd. Appearing beside her was the image of a heart with the Fairy Tail mark in the middle of it and a star was on her right side with #1 inside it.

"No way," Luna whispered. "I won?"

More fireworks joined the sky. It was time for the final of fireworks. Burst upon burst of color and light filled the night sky. The audience roared with applause and approving shouts at the firework display as the Fairy Tail members did their last tricks of the night before their floats docked and they met at the cathedral for the prayer of the priest.

Luna could not believe it. "But…how? If anyone should have won…" She looked back at Gale. "You and Igneel should have won," she told him. "I didn't do anything."

"No, you didn't," Gale agreed. "You did everything."

Luna shook her head. "There must be some mistake," she tried to reason.

"Master doesn't make mistakes," Gale reminded. "She gives credit when credit is due, and, Blondie, you deserved some credit. You are the one we should be thanking. In the end, you are the one who took down a demon single-handedly."

"With help," Luna put in. "With your help. You deserve to be a winner too."

Gale shook his head.

Luna grew frustrated. "You at least deserve something!" she snapped. "You saved Magnolia! Don't you want anything?"

Gale smirked. "One thing."

"Name it," Luna dared.

Gale shrugged. "Give me a second." He lowered one knee to the ground so he was kneeling before Luna.

Luna found herself panicking. "What are you—?"

"Relax, Blondie, I ain't proposing to ya," Gale soothed. "Don't really want to get married, remember? Especially not this young."

Luna still looked wary. "Okay… So, what are you doing?"

Gale sobered himself as his grip on Luna's hands tightened. "Luna Anna Dragneel, you might be a blonde, but you're not stupid. You can get whiney and clueless and I totally see that you get jealous and angry over the smallest crap," he started.

Luna found a tick mark on her forehead. "If this is all you have to say," she began to growl.

"But," Gale plowed on, "you're brave, you're fiercely protective, and you look so hot when you go badass."

Luna blushed at that. "Shut up," she shushed.

Gale grinned. "And, you look hella cute when you blush at the stuff I say," he tacked on. "You care about me. Not just because I'm a masterpiece or because I'm just that good—"

"Or because you're humble," Luna muttered.

"—but because we're friends and friends protect each other," Gale said, giving her a meaningful look. "I know you aren't fully trained and you're just learning. I know you might not think you're that powerful. But, I think you are the most kick ass princess I've ever laid eyes on and I'm claiming you first before everyone else wants you. So…" He winked at her. "How 'bout it? Partners?"

Luna feigned thinking about it. "Well, let me see…" she murmured. "Do I get anything out of this?"

Gale raised an eyebrow. "How about a guarantee of me paying for food on missions and you get the first shower and the bed?"

Luna nodded slowly. Then, she broke into a smile. "Well, with conditions like that, what else can a girl say?"

Gale found his expression turning adorably hopeful. "You serious?"

Luna nodded, her smile growing. "Yes," she answered. "If you're sure you want to take me and all my flaws, then yes, Gale Metalicana Redfox. I'll be your partner."

Gale whooped as he sprung up from his position and grabbed onto Luna. He got her into her arms and swung her around, making her laugh. "Hell yes!" he crowed. "We're going to be fricken undefeatable!" He stopped swinging her around to look up at her, forcing her to wrap her legs around him to keep herself balanced. "You and me versus the world, Blondie-girl. You ready for the adventure, the victory, and roughin' it?"

Luna allowed her hands to caress Gale's cheeks. She pressed her forehead against his as her eyes closed. "As long as my dragon is with me, I'm ready for filled of never-ending adventures," she murmured to him.

Gale closed his eyes as he allowed his forehead to press against hers and the dragon and the princess stayed like that as the fireworks burst behind them.

---

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!

---

Sneakers landed on pavement. The bus hissed, snorted, then shut its doors before driving away. Jade eyes looked at the road as the bus drove away. It was Jay in his leather jacket glory. He turned around and started walking the opposite direction. Walking home for him was nothing new. Some friendly faces gave him words of greetings, but he ignored them. He looked unusually somber for this time for night. He walked through the suburbs of the town until he stopped in front of his own home. It was a two-story model, nothing fancy. The lawn needed a trimming, but it was tamed. As Jay walked up to the porch, he noticed the flowers were still healthy and alive. He unlocked his door and walked in.

"I'm home, Nana!" Jay called, tired.

There was shuffling in the house. "Did you have a nice time, dear?" came a raspy voice that had aged beautifully.

Jay kicked off his shoes and cracked his neck. "Yeah. It was pretty okay."

"And, did you meet the girl you were raving about, dear?"

Jay sighed as he leaned against the door. "Yeah, Nana. And, she was…"

Warm brown eyes.

A bright smile.

Jay had to smile. "She was amazing, Nana," he murmured.

There was more shuffling. "That's great, dear, but you know what you're supposed to call me," came a chide when the shuffling stopped.

Jay sighed again. "Sorry, Sorry, I keep forgetting." He opened his eyes to stare at the old woman in front of him. She had lavender hair rolled into a bun and an innocent look about her. She had that type of elder face that comforted you when you saw it.

"Welcome home, dear," she told Jay. "I've missed you and so has your father."

Jay smiled a little while, but it seemed forced. "Thanks a lot. I've missed you too…Grandmother."

---

TO BE CONTINUED…

All's well that ends well! A new adventure is on the horizon and here's to many more! See you guys next time on the next Fairy Adventure!

---

Chibi-Luna scurries back and forth with something in her hands. She keeps going back and forth until she notices you. "Oh, hi! Sorry! I have something to deliver to E, but we can do a quick Fairy Lesson!" She runs off screen before returning without anything in her hands. "Let's talk about the country Seven today, shall we?" She pulls down a map to show the country of Seven and brings out her pointer wand. She gestures to the map. "This is Seven! It's known for a lot of famous composers being born there as well as its potatoes! Isn't that cool? A lot of people who want to study music end up in Seven to learn the history behind it and hope to feel the music the great musicians did centuries ago!"

She pulls down another map to show a close-up map of Seven. It shows its bigger cities and train routes as well as what the geography is. "Tobias von Ebert is the current president of of Seven with its chancellor, Lena Strauss. The capital of Seven is Stadt des Liedes, of just Liedes. The capital houses one of the world's first and biggest concert hall! Isn't that neat?"

Chibi-Luna pulls back up the map. "The population of Seven is around six-point-eight million and it grows more and more each day! Seven is the country of music and dreams! Actually, I'm pretty sure Vinyl is from Seven…"

Chibi-Luna waves at you. "Well, that's all we have time for today! Next time, on Fairy Adventure: HALLOW'S EVE! It's a special halloween special from us to you! Hope you enjoy it! And see you next time!"

---

Voices of New Characters in Order of Appearance

1. Steve Blum as Thirteen

2. Alison Viktorin as Aoide Viñella 'Vinyl' de la Muse