Disclaimer: I do not own Hiro Mashima's Fairy Tail, any work professionally associated with it, nor any references. All original plots and characters are mine.

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

LAST TIME, on Fairy Adventure, we got to see the aftermath from the holiday event and I'm just hoping Saudade wakes up and everything with her is okay! Esme's pregnancy has Nik thinking about his own son while Lance might have a bigger connection to Veleda and Pearson's guest Aurinia than he thought. Mary Jane and Peter reveal their new status as boyfriend and girlfriend and not everyone is too happy. Don't worry, Mary Jane—Veronika is here to set things straight. Speaking of Veronika, things between her and Spencer get a little intense with him leaving, but one slip-up from Lisa-Jane sends Veronika into a spiral again. Pearson pulls out a surprise for him being a hunter to Soul Eaters and contracted by Giovanni and Sindella—two names we haven't heard in a while! But what's Aurinia's connection with them? Does she know Dazzler and John too? At least it seems Nik knows John to be the P.I. Occultist who found him information about his son and Emma. But the next day, everyone's heading back home and the trial of Bellum versus Skade is just getting started!

'Okay. I can do this. Here we go.'

You got this, Nashi! Skade will get out free! But, um… Peter, you might not want to get too excited around Mary Jane if you don't want Laxus to kill you, okay?

The Ishgaran Magic Court was abuzz with conversation, working theories, speculations, and the latest gossip. Býleistr had long-since climbed into Nashi's lap and purred to give her comfort as Nashi held him close while Lucy was on alert and Mister Wilson kept his calm. The courtroom clerk came out—a tiny thing in uniform with a big mustache—and all eyes were drawn to him. He announced: "All rise."

The entirety of the court rose to their feet.

The courtroom clerk continued: "This court is now in session. His Honor Judge Ocrevus Trumphour is now presiding."

The man who walked out in his judicial robes had an older appeal and a salt and pepper beard to him. He loftily took his seat as the judge's stand and oversaw the entire courtroom with chilling dark eyes. "Everyone but the jury may be seated," he told the court and watched everyone fall back into their seats. His eyes rested on the caged Skade for a mere moment. "Mister Chigurupati, will you please swear in the jury?"

Mister Chigurupati turned the grand jury. "Please raise your right hand." When the grand jury did so, Mister Chigurupati then said, "Do you solemnly swear and affirm that you will truly listen to this case and render a true verdict and a fair sentence as to this defendant?"

"I do," the grand jury chorused.

"You may be seated," Mister Chigurupati proclaimed.

As the grand jury sat, Ocrevus took in the notes he had been given and said: "Members of the jury, your duty today will be to determine whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty based only on facts and evidence provided in this case. The prosecution must prove that a crime was committed and that the defendant is the person who committed the crime. However, if you are not satisfied with the defendant's guilt to that extent, then reasonable doubt exists and the defendant must be found not guilty." His eyes fleeted over Skade again. "Mister Chigurupati, what is today's case?"

"Your Honor, today's case is the Commonwealth of Bellum versus The Devil," Mister Chigurupati answered dutifully.

Ocrevus nodded. "Are all parties present and ready for the introduction?"

Chinlien and Miss Wilson stood up with their co-counsels as Chinlien said confidently, "I am attorney Chinlien Broussard of Bellum and this is my co-counsel Remy Dudetsky and we are acting on behalf of the Crown. We are ready for the People, Your Honor."

Miss Wilson stated: "I am attorney Hemera Wilson and this is my co-counsel Mirella Lynn and we are acting on behalf of our accursed client—this Devil behind us. We are ready for the defense, Your Honor."

Ocrevus nodded at both. "Thank you." As both attorneys and their co-counsel sat, Ocrevus looked towards Mister Chigurupati. "Please read all charges."

Mister Chigurupati produced the file and read aloud for the court: "Devil, you are charged on, or about December twentieth, XXXX, in the District of Ishgar, in which you committed an unlawful homicide and magical disturbance in the kingdom of Bellum, and have therefore been charged with conspiracy, murder of the third degree of unlawful manslaughter, malicious property damage, and international terrorism."

Ocrevus looked over at Skade. "Mister Devil, how do you…?" His eyes narrowed. "Why does the accursed have on a muzzle?" he demanded to know. "Was he not deemed a sentient creature capable of speech?"

Miss Wilson rushed to stand, but Chinlien beat her to it. "Your Honor, the Devil has been deemed a potential high-profile murderer and terrorist associated with the Faction," he spoke. "Considering we are uncertain the range of attacks this Devil could unleash into the courtroom—"

"Your Honor, I have petitioned for my client to be relinquished from muzzling, but I have been continuously denied the right," Miss Wilson cut in. She picked up a thick file. "This here proves the range of possible attacks data analysts have pulled together regarding a Devil's power, but I have a written record of my client consenting to orderly conduct in the court."

Chinlien laughed. "Your Honor, forgive my amusement, but how do we even know this creature speaks Minstrish?" He smirked as he looked at the jury. "Judge, jury, should this Devil not speak Minstrish, what's the point of getting him out of the muzzle? He's in these very restraints to protect you on the off-chance he becomes trigger—"

"And I can attest first hand along with my co-counsel that the Devil speaks Minstrish," Miss Wilson countered. "Everything need is in the file, Your Honor, if I could just present this as evidence."

Ocrevus gave a hard nod. "Crown, Defense—come to the stand." Miss Wilson did so and Ocrevus took the file to skim it over. "Why was this not presented in the discovery beforehand, Miss Wilson? This is very crucial evidence regarding your client."

"Your Honor, several times my co-counsel and I tried to enter this as evidence, but every single time I requested for Mister Broussard to agree with the paperwork, he was conveniently out of office," Miss Wilson started.

Chinlien snorted. "Miss Wilson, this 'evidence' has no merit unless you can produce a translator for the client—"

Miss Wilson ignored Chinlien and spoke directly to Ocrevus. "Your Honor, my client has shown exceptional proficiency in Minstrish, but if need be, on the witness list, I have an expert in Dark Creatures who will be questioned and can act as a translator, but again, I petition for the right for my client to at least have the freedom of speech and to exercise that right in court." She took a deep breath. "Please."

Ocrevus' eyes flickered over to Skade before going back to Miss Wilson. "Miss Wilson, on behalf of the entire Ishgaran Magic Court, we apologize for the foul treatment of your client," he murmured. He leafed through the file. "I will have to continue the denial of medical attention onto the creature outside of basic first aid until we have further information regarding the Devil's physiology and, while this Devil has shown complex sentience, it is customary for any creature to be put in a sealstone cage and have any paws, claws, or talons restrained until further notice, but we will certainly allow your client to speak freely."

Miss Wilson bowed. "Thank you, Your Honor."

Ocrevus swung a cool glare to Chinlien. "Mister Broussard." A harder edge. "As you represent your country, let me make myself clear: in the fair state of law, all parties presented to me are innocent until proven guilty. You have made a grave mistake in overlooking substantial evidence for the sake of tarnishing this creature's innocence." In a lower voice, he warned, "Do this again and I will have you disbarred and thrown out of my court. Do we understand each other?"

Chinlien locked his jaw. "Of course, Your Honor."

Ocrevus looked up at the four guards who kept close to the cage. "Guards, please have the Devil's muzzle removed effective immediately. Crown, Defense—you may return to your seats."

One of the guards took the deed of unlocking the cage. Skade did not put up any fight and poised still as the guard whispered a spell and the muzzle unfastened itself. He was a little rough getting the muzzle off Skade, but it was off and taken out of the cage. Skade licked his chops and immediately dipped his head to lap at the water.

Ocrevus looked over at Skade. "Mister Devil," he began, "will you—?"

"Skade."

The entire court gasped. The Devil had spoken? Nashi found herself smiling a little.

Ocrevus leaned forward. "Excuse me?"

Skade finished the last lap of water and shook his head with a snort. "My name is Skade," he interjected not unkindly.

Ocrevus looked over at Miss Wilson who nodded then back to Skade. "Very well then. Let the record show the Devil will no longer be called 'Devil'. Please address this creature as 'Skade'." As the court reporter nodded and their Magic moved alongside their fingers, Ocrevus went back to Skade. "Mister Skade, before I ask our attorneys to make their opening statements today, may I ask you if you feel comfortable speaking in Minstrish, or do you feel the need to have a translator on hand this very moment? I ask you to be honest for your sake and so you may understand what happens in this court."

Skade sat on his haunches. "I understand your tongue. I need no assistance."

Ocrevus leaned back and nodded. "Very well." He nodded over to the court registrar who came over to get the file. "We will add this file alongside evidence that will be available to be examined during this trial. Now." He turned to Miss Wilson. "Miss Wilson, if I may, I understand you will be answering on behalf of your client. For today only, I will allow you to continue to speak on behalf until there is documentation added to evidence of Mister Skade's proficiency with the terms on hand. Now. How does your client plead?"

"Not guilty, Your Honor," Miss Wilson answered.

Ocrevus nodded. His gaze swung to Chinlien and hid any ill-will he felt towards the criminal solicitor. "Crown, proceed with your case, and begin your opening statement."

Chinlien stood and took a stroll in the courtroom. "Judge, jury, the case I bring to you today is about the crimes committed against my homeland, Bellum," he started. "Already, the Faction has attacked Bellum with rogue Mages who defy His Majesty, you see. And just days before, we received a warning." He shook his head. "And this warning told us if we did not back down from enacting the Magic Registrar, there would be a bigger act against my kingdom. This case is about that threat." He gestured to Skade who watched him with narrowed eyes. "This case is about that Devil right there—Mister Skade—who brought down death and destruction to thousands of lives so the Faction could prove a point. He conspired with terrorists to brutalize my home, slaughter innocent lives, and threaten the safety of every Spiritless in the vicinity."

He turned to face the jury directly. "I'm just a Spiritless. Some of you in this room have powers; some of you don't. But take Magic out of the equation. My country was attacked outright and thousands are left without homes they can turn to as the snow sets in and Christmas is only just days away. Some families had to be told they would have their father gone for the holidays or the family pet was dead. All because Mister Skade brought upon us this hellish destruction whether he was conspiring with the Faction or with another organization." He put a hand over his heart. "I am here to represent my country and those who died in this horrific tragedy to gain justice from the one who took away our safety and our freedom. And why you are here, ladies and gentlemen of the jury, is to help me put a name to the face of his massacre and give those families and friends who survived a chance to know who killed their loved ones. In this trial, we ask you to grant my country the request to give capital punishment to the one who slaughtered my people without a second thought."

Chinlien nodded to the judge. "That will be all."

Ocrevus inclined his head and watched Skade for a moment, but the Winter Devil remained tensed and silent. "Miss Wilson, your case, if you will."

Miss Wilson rose to address the jury. "Ladies and gentlemen, remember these words: false accusation and hearsay," she started. "Today, a lot of information will be thrown at you. You'll hear from professionals of magizoologists, caligologists, all those fun specialists who will hit you with big numbers. You might hear testimonies from citizens of Bellum who are currently traumatized from the event that happened." She crossed her arms. "And you're right to take in every word they say as the truth. That's your job as the jury—to listen to everything presented to you. But as the jury, you are also to acknowledge that unless concrete evidence supports my client is guilty, in the fair state of law, my client will continue to be innocent."

She nodded at the judge as she pointed over to Skade. "You have every right to fear my client. He's an unknown element. Dark Creatures are few and far-between and Devils even more so. But he is no different than the person you see on the left of you or the right of you. He has thoughts and feelings that deserve to be heard. He has a home. And he has no motive to ally allegedly with the Faction nor does any organization have the means to incentivize or control a Devil of his caliber. A Devil of his caliber wouldn't even be sitting here patiently while we decide if he lives or dies. If he was the terrorist the media portrayed him as, he wouldn't stand for us humans, us mere mortals, to decide his fate. But that's for you to decide for yourself. Look at my client with your own eyes after all is said in done and ask yourself: 'Is this creature who sits before us so quietly a homicidal killer or does the media only paint what it wants to and harms the innocent'? Ladies and gentlemen, I am Hemera Wilson, attorney of this Devil here, Mister Skade, and I am imploring you to think long and hard who deserves the real sentence in this case. Because it certainly is not my client."

Nashi watched in bated breath as the grand jury nodded along and glanced at each other at Miss Wilson's words. Are they believing her? Can you tell?

I can only empathetically read them, Kyler thought. I can't read their minds without triggering the alarm. They understand the nature of this case. A few of them have their feelings locked on tight, but I am unsure if that sways within Skade's favor or not. Others are conflicted; Mirella's words are working to confuse them. They aren't sure what to believe. Of course, it helps the grand jury was not permitted to watch any media pertaining to the Bellum disaster when they were chosen, and Mirella was able to handpick jurors who she felt were too adamant that Skade was the villain in his Greek tragedy.

'Greek'?

Encan. My apologies. Greece, I suppose, is another terran country equivalent to the country of Enca on Earth Land.

Nashi gave the smallest of nods. I see. Her eyes held still on Skade's form. We can do this. Skade, Gary—we won't let you be accused like this. She tightened her hold on Býleistr. I'll do whatever it takes to get you out of that cage and back home. I promise.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Ima nan janai?

Meramerato tagiru

Kon'na boku ni mo hisomu seigi ga

Dou shiyou mo nai shoudou ni kara rete

Hora kidzukeba te o nigitte iru

•

Ittaizentai

Son'nani nimotsu o

Shoikonde dokoheikuno

Nee nee matte boku ni chotto azukete mite wa?

•

Nana na nana na

Nananana nana na nana na

Nanana nana na nana na

Nananana nana na nana na

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Ocrevus shuffled through the notes presented to him. "All right. With opening statements out of the way, Crown, you may begin with your first witness."

Chinlien stood. "Thank you, Your Honor. I would like to call…"—his eyes met Miss Wilson's—"logistics expert Henry Marketa to the stand as well as the court-ordered witness."

Henry Marketa was a scraggly young man who had that sort of babyface on him behind his glasses. He scurried from the audience seating and the guards permitted him beyond the little gates and escorted him to the witness stand. Mister Chigurupati came over with a sleek woman in robes. "Mister Marketa, do you solemnly swear your testimony will uphold the truth and nothing but the truth in the name of the law and agree any act of perjury will result in your immediate disposal of court?"

Henry looked over at the translator who repeated the question in Bellish. "Da," Henry answered.

Mister Chigurupati nodded to the sleek woman. She wafted her hand over him as a muted spell mouthed from her lips. When she was finished, she nodded at both judge and courtroom officer. Henry sat and adjusted his dress shirt. Miss Wilson narrowed her eyes on Henry then to Chinlien. What the Hell is he playing at? she wanted to know. Calling a specialist at the beginning of a trial?

Chinlien looked over at Miss Wilson with a smirk and a wink. He ignored her reaction as he dove into speaking to Henry in Minstrish as the translator rapidly went along.

Miss Wilson locked her jaw. What is this human playing at? I can smell the arrogance coming off him and it's repugnant.

I do as well, Talia noted, but look at his co-counsel.

Miss Wilson subtly let her eyes trail over to the co-counsel. Remy was plotting himself, a nervous wreck, and his head kept turning over his shoulder. So he's nervous. As he should be.

But look at who he is staring at.

Miss Wilson turned her head to follow Remy's line of sight to see Hendrika in the crowd and her eyes firmly on Chinlien. The female Magic-Speaker for Bellum, Mirella named. Why is he looking at her? She swung her head back to half-heartedly look at Chinlien as he spoke to his witness. His eyes crossed the court and he delivered another wink. Miss Wilson wanted to bristle when she thought it was aimed at her, but her eyes checked over her shoulder and she witnessed Hendrika wince and her eyes went downcast. Did we ever figure out what was being held over Hendrika?

No, Talia answered. Mammon is currently working on all loose ends, but he has only come across dead ends.

Miss Wilson clasped her hands and rested her chin atop them. All right, Mister Broussard… What exactly has Hendrika been feeding you? And more importantly, what exactly like has Hendrika's puppet master been feeding her?

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Fairy Adventure 063

Day One

裁判の時間だ！ 誰もがそれぞれの試練や苦難に直面していますが、克服できるのでしょうか？

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

The Dragneel House was quieter this time around for a Monday. Ena had left earlier in the day to get started on some more shopping as well as pay a visit to one of her vendors. With Lucy and Nashi and Býleistr gone alongside some of Lucy's Spirits, Lelantos stayed behind while Actaeon went with their mistress for communication purposes. Luna came to the living in her training leggings and a twisted tank top, her hair swept into twin buns. Icarus went over to Lelantos who was in his doggy bed and both Celestial Spirit Dogs had wagging tails as they sniffed each other and curled up together.

Luke was in the living room with the LV on and had one his harem jogger and a loose t-shirt with a headband on to keep his hair out of his eyes. He smiled over at Luna. "Morning, soon-to-be-birthday girl."

"Hi," Luna grunted as she fell onto the couch.

Luke frowned. "What's wrong? Oh…" His grin was back. "Right… Today's the day you get to train with your ex."

Luna kicked Luke, but he easily locked her leg with his arm. She turned her head to glare at him. "He is not my ex, you jerk." She pushed away from him to get onto her back and laid her feet on Luke's lap. "He's annoying. I can't believe Mama and Papa signed off on that jerk to train with me…! Ugh, this is so not fair!"

Luke offered a sympathetic look this time. "I know. Things are changing like crazy. It's weird I'm not training with Sensei. I never minded when Dad and Igneel trained together since I had Sensei. But training with Dad?" He sighed. "Not too sure I'm at that level yet."

"Are you kidding me?" Luna sat up with her eyebrows raised. "Luke, you're crazy strong! You're gonna do great today!"

"I hope so," Luke muttered. He reached over to pinch Luna's cheek. "Thanks for believing in me, Lu. Seriously, though. Did you enjoy the scavenger hunt yesterday?"

Luna beamed and nodded. "I did, I did! I'm happy I got to celebrate my birthday with Mama and Nashi before they had to leave for DI." She looked over at the LV to recognize the criminal court case between the Commonwealth of Bellum and Skade was one. Chinlien was taking his time with his questions on his first witness. "Do you think Skade and Gary will come home free?"

"I hope so," Luke murmured as something flicked in the back of his mind. "I…" Something was wrong. His hand went to his head as nausea rolled his stomach. He could hear the flow of his blood and the beat of his heart. Skin hot but internally icy-cold, Luke gritted his teeth. What…? What's wrong with me?

"Luke?" came Luna's concerned voice. "Everything okay?"

Luke flinched when Luna's hand touch his arm and everything felt like it was on fire. It was like a film had been on his soul and moment by moment, the dark film was clearing up so light could seep through. The darkness of his eyes would shift and faded and restrengthen before brightening again like it was fighting the change. "I… I don't know," Luke panted. What…? What's happening? Something is…wrong with me. A flicker passed through his mind. Yes… I think… My shadow… I—

BARK-BARK-BARK!

GRRRRRRRRRRR!

Luna let go of Luke to see Icarus and Lelantos had both gotten excited and were parking out the window. Groaning, she got up to attend to both dogs. "What now?" She peeked out the window as she grabbed their collars, but from all she could see, nothing suspicious was outside. "What's gotten into you both?" she grumbled. "There's nothing outside."

Lelantos growled and snapped his teeth towards the window while Icarus pranced on his paws, restless. We felt an unfamiliar presence outside.

Luna frowned. Well, that's not possible unless it was an animal. The wards on the property prohibit anyone with bad intentions. Are you sure it wasn't just a deer or something?

Yes. Icarus joined Lelantos in growling at the window. Allow us to go outside for a perimeter run, Pup. We will check in with the other Star Spirits to ensure your safety.

"Yeah, fine, sure, go check." Luna let go of the collars for both dogs to go to the sliding doors that led to the deck and opened it. Both dogs tore out of the house and broke into an immediate run. "That was weird." She shut the door and squinted when she saw her father was outside with Gale in their training gear. They had paved for training today as Gale built two stone training grounds while Natsu alone warded off any snow and ice with his heat. "Ugh. Is this how Mary Jane used to feel with Igneel always being at her house?" she muttered.

VR-VRRRRRRR…

Luna got her Compact from the little pocket her pants permitted her and unlocked it to see Bleu had sent her a text message.

« I feel like I'm more excited for your birthday than you. »

Luna smiled and typed back:

« Oh, yeah? And why is that? »

« Because I have THE perfect gift for you and I'm actually excited for you to see it »

« It's weird getting excited about a birthday »

Luna pressed the text to laugh at it as she giggled herself and responded:

« Any chance I'll know when your birthday is? »

« I only kiss and tell, Treasure, what sort of a man do you think I am? »

SLIDE…

Luna's head whipped up and she locked her Compact the moment her father crossed into the threshold. "Hi, Papa!"

"Morning, baby girl." Natsu came over to kiss her forehead. "Excited to train?"

Luna's face went flat. "Yeah. Leaping for joy."

"Good!" Natsu jerked a thumb outside, oblivious to Luna's mood. "Gale's waiting for you so you guys can start your warm-up. I'll do my best to check-in, but Gale knows the drills, so you'll be in good hands."

Luna pouted up at her father. "Papa, c'mon, let's be real here. Do you really want your sweet little daughter training with a jerk like him?" She widened her eyes and furthered her pout. "Can't I train with someone else? Pretty please, Papa?"

Natsu did not even know he was falling under his daughter's spell as he took in her cuteness. "Well… I don't know…"

Inwardly, Luna smirked. I've almost got him. Time for the finishing touch. "And, Papa… It is my birthday tomorrow and…" She let out a sniffle. "You wouldn't want your birthday girl to be upset"—she blinked up at him with those big teary brown eyes—"would you, Papa?" She watched as Natsu hemmed and hawed at the mercy of her cuteness. Got him. I just know I do. Hook, line, and sinker. Sorry, Papa.

A fanged grin. "Aw, don't be like that, Blondie."

Luna's pout drew up into a scowl when Gale came inside in loose shorts and no shirt, and furious chocolate clashed with cocky ruby.

"I'll be gentle with you, principessa," Gale promised in light teasing. "No need to be such chicken-shit. Your old man walked me through everything I need to get through with you."

Luna lifted her chin and sniffed. "It doesn't matter," she snapped. "Papa won't let me train with an arrogant jerk like you. Right, Papa?" But where her father should have been, he had disappeared. "Papa?" She looked around and glared when she saw her father tiptoeing to the hall that led to the kitchen. "Papa!"

Natsu gave a twitchy grin as he scratched his cheek with a finger. "C'mon, baby girl, you'll learn a lot from Gale," he assured. "And he'll learn a lot from you. It's a win-win situation!" He cowered back when Luna's murderous aura began to consume him. "I'll, uh… I'll…" And he sprinted away.

Luna huffed and glared accusingly at Gale. "You asshole! I almost had him!"

Gale cocked an eyebrow. "And I'm supposed to feel sorry for you now?" His grin broadened when Luna turned away from him and crossed her arms. "Aw, Blondie, don't give me that pout," he cooed. "This'll be fun. And besides, it's the only way our little secret stays our little secret, right?"

That got Luna angry for a whole different reason and she whipped around to jab a finger at Gale's chest. "Listen here, you pretentious know-it-all," she hissed, "here's the deal. I beat you in one sparring match and you let me go and leave me alone."

Gale gingerly held Luna's wrist with his wrapped hand. "Sounds like a date to me."

Cheeks flushed, Luna wrenched her hand from him. "And don't touch me," she barked. "And this isn't a date!"

"Hate to break it to ya, Blondie, but I kinda have to touch you while we're sparring," Gale snickered and enjoyed watching Luna's blush deepen. "C'mon. We'll start with some simple warm-ups. And, uh…" He made a quick grab for Luna's Compact and raised it high in the air when Luna gasped and jumped for it. "I'll be taking that."

"Give it back!" Luna stamped her foot. "Why are you being such a jerk?"

"Sorry, Blondie, but your little prince charming can wait until after training." Gale allowed Magic to pulse in his veins, and Luna was left to gawk in horror as Gale coated her entire Compact with clear quartz. "But if you're so desperate to talk to him, here." He offered the quartz-crusted Compact back to her. "Take it."

Luna snatched back her Compact and looked upset seeing her Compact was buried beneath gemstone. "My Com…" she whimpered as she feathered the stone. Her head whipped up with burning resentment in her eyes. "You're such an ass," she seethed. "You could have just asked me nicely to turn off my Com and I would have. Now you ruined it!"

"I can take off the quartz after training," Gale conditioned. "Stop being such a valley girl, Blondie. You can survive without your precious little prince."

"What if E needs me? Or Silver, huh?" Luna challenged. "What if it's an emergency? What if my mama calls? Then what?"

But Gale remained unmoved. "Fernandes and Fullbuster have my number, your dad's number, and Luke's number and even your Home Com number, Blondie," he reminded. "Your mom will probably call your old man or the house. If she really needs to call you, she'll call me. She knows we're training today." He hiked up an eyebrow. "Anything else?"

Luna growled. "Other than the fact that you're an asshole and a jerk and I hate you?" A fake pretty smile marred her features. "Nothing, I guess."

"Good girl." Gale pinched Luna's cheek only to pull back when she tried to bite him. "Temper, temper, Blondie. I told you." He leaned down so intense ruby connected with angered chocolate. "Biting is a serious form of flirting for Dragons. I might just bite back."

Luna hissed, "You disgust me."

"You love me." Gale purposefully twitched his nose. "The nose doesn't lie."

Affronted and embarrassed, Luna made an ungodly noise of annoyance and stormed away.

Gale crossed his arms and chuckled. One of these days when she gets strong enough, she might just kill me. He looked over at Luke when he saw the Mage hunched over with his head in his hands. "Luke, dude, you okay?" he asked cautiously. "Something go wrong in the trial?"

"What?" Luke popped his head up and his dark eyes fleeted over to Gale. "Oh! Um, no. No, no, just a headache. But it's going away now so I should be fine." He waved a hand dismissively. "Have fun training Lu."

Gale dipped his head and purposefully did not meet Luke's eyes. He did not want to endure another challenge. "Sure, man. See you later." And he went in the same direction Luna had gone.

Luke sat back and tried to refocus on the trial. Blinking away that dazed feeling he had, he rubbed the side of his face and sniffed. "So weird," he muttered. "I feel like I'm forgetting something." He shrugged to himself. "Oh, well. Might as well watch the trial until Dad's ready to start." And as he got back to Chinlien's examination of his witness, he did not notice that right outside the window a shadow disappeared back into the forest.

Julia admitted she might have been a little underdressed in her combat boots, her shorts with thermal leggings beneath, and her fur-incrusted coat, but she was unsure what to wear when she was summoned. She knocked thrice on the apartment door and waited patiently from the hallway. Taking out her Compact, she checked it to see missed calls had come in from both Dash and Linus while she had been bombarded with messages from a few group chats that she ignored. She did see Dash's text message.

⌜MESSAGES

Eiji

Please Peaches can we talk? ⌟

Julia wanted to fire back a text message when she heard the door unlock, unchain, and open up. On the other side, Zelda was there and somehow she managed to make harem pants and a splatter-paint crop top hoodie look attractive. "Julia," Zelda acknowledged, "come on in."

Julia helped herself and smiled a little when she saw Sheik with her bell collar. Rather than crafted of energy, Sheik was disguised as a black and white domestic shorthair with beautiful round eyes and took pleasure when Zelda rubbed her head. "I was a little surprised you wanted me to come to your place."

"It's better for us to meet here where I have extra precautions in place in case the Black Dog's little spies want to listen in to our conversation." Zelda had already poured herself wine, but she gestured to the bottle. "Care for some wine?"

"No thank you," Julia declined.

Zelda bobbed her head and took a sip. "I have a gift for you." She went over to one of the drawers and pulled out something that jingled. She set it on the kitchen island to display a leather collar with gold tags. "Here. For you."

Julia approached the collar warily and took it into her hand. "Uh… Thanks, but I'm not into that?"

Zelda rolled her eyes. "It's not for anything kinky," she assured. "It's for Kore. Keeping a Hellhound around is trouble enough, but this collar should disguise Kore as a regular dog just like Sheik's collar gives her the image of a regular cat." She sipped more wine. "It's not much, but at least it protects Kore. Hides the fact she's a Hellhound and only another Magic Hunter can remove the collar."

"Thank you," appreciated Julia. "It has been getting tricky hiding Kore. I'll put this on her when she comes home tonight."

Zelda ushered them both into the living room and Sheik bounded over to the couch to get comfortable. "How's Kore's doing by the way?"

"She's been keeping a close eye on the Magic Hunter you told me is called 'Cerberus'," Julia reported. "Not too much activity in his prison cell. His release date isn't until January as planned, but Kore did report to me he has had a few interesting visitors. His wife, for one, visits, and so does your father. But there's another man who came to visit." She sighed as she sat down. "But for whatever reason, Kore can't show me a face to him. It's like his face is blurred."

Zelda took this into consideration. "I'll send Sheik in and see what she can find out about this other man. We need to know every single visitor he has before he's released." She took a longer gulp of her wine before setting it on the coffee table. "Now. I understand you have questions for me. And it's about time I answered them."

Julia nodded. "How could you not tell me one of my good friends is a Magic Hunter?"

Zelda sighed. "Tesla Greer," she named.

"Yeah, your cousin." Julia shook her head. "Is she really your cousin?"

"She is," Zelda confirmed.

Julia grimaced. "Which means 'Cerberus' is her asshole father?"

"He is."

Julia groaned. "So not only have I been training in secret with you and befriending your cousin, but now I'm spying on her father?" She rubbed her face. "Great. Just great."

"You're doing her a bigger service than you realize," Zelda soothed. "Secrets are a part of the job Hunters have. You get over the guilt pretty quickly once you're far into the game after all the surgeries."

Julia was unconvinced of that, but she did not try to argue. "Can you start from the beginning? How is Tesla your cousin? How is she involved in any of this? How does she even have natural Anti-Ethernano? I thought you were the only one and that's why all the Hunters don't fuck with you, but at the same time, it's why they all want to recruit you in to your father's little intergang-cult-whatever?"

Zelda cracked her back. "What you need to know about Magic Hunters is that the power we have isn't natural—at least, not in this century."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"Right now? It means nothing to you since you're not a natural Hunter," Zelda said crisply. "Hunters are so few because the surgeries to inject ourselves with Anti-Ether is a complex process and the survival rate of the surgeries is so low. That's why anyone who wants to wield our weapons normally takes the easy route: lose a limb, gain the power. You took an extensive high-risk surgery like the others in my father's little pack. You straight-up filled your body with the stuff like a junkie. As such, you have to take those injections every three months so your body can have Anti-Ethernano in its system. My father and the Cerberus Hunter took it to a whole new level."

Her gaze became distant. "What they did to their bodies should have destroyed them, but they were too greedy for power. Some doctor they met invented a chamber that could immerse them and practically marinate them in Anti-Ethernano for an entire week. I'm not sure what it felt like, but for your body to be submerged in Anti-Ethernano is suicidal, but to live? It granted them more power than anyone could fathom."

"Why didn't anyone else do the same?" Julia wanted to know. "Or did others try and they died?"

Zelda nodded. "Dead. Every person who has tried has died. I'm sure trials still go on. But no one outside my father and Tesla's father survived such an aggressive tactic to gain these powers. Maybe that's why Hylia—Tesla and I were born with Anti-Ethernano. Because our fathers were stupid dumb shits." She waved her hand. "You know my story and my past with my father. But Tesla's was a little different than mine."

Julia's eyes narrowed. "She told me her father was…abusive towards her…"

"Then, she's being too kind." A vengeful fury arose in Zelda like a sickness. "The man was a complete monster towards her. Both of our fathers were monsters. But my father still had a boundary he refused to cross when it came to pushing my abilities to the limit. Tesla's father had no boundaries. Maybe that's why she has the powers she has."

"And what power does she have?" Julia wanted to know. "She should just have the same powers you do, shouldn't she?"

Zelda sighed and went for her wine for a big sip. "As you know, when it comes to Magic, two people can be born with the same general power, but the abilities and limitations within that power vary from person to person," she reminded. "The same is said for Hunters who did the surgery and the same is said for me and Hy—Tesla." Her eyes looked at her wine. "My powers are great." Softest of words filled with remorse and self-loathing. "My father made sure I perfect Anti-Ether. I made my own Familiar, something unsaid amongst most Hunters. I'm able to shield myself from other Hunters and I can even get a few good Anti-Ethers blasts here and there. But Hylia…" She closed her eyes. Memories cracked through the surface. Pained whimpers. A plead here and there with the insistence of no more. Whispers of being good.

"I've never seen power as great as hers for a Hunter," Zelda murmured. "And honestly, I never want to."

"Zeze!" came wild scream. "H-H-H-Help!"

Julia felt unnerved watching such a powerful woman become unhinged piece by piece. Zelda let loose a shaky exhale and opened her eyes. "The Cerberus Hunter used tactics no one should ever use, let alone on their child," she whispered. "The memory Tesla has is distorted, but I don't blame her. Her mind is trying to process what she went through as reasonably as she can. I didn't train with her often since I'm older between the two of us. But she was still my cousin. Whenever my father went to see hers, I was allowed to play with Hylia." An emotion broke her voice. "I honestly think I was the only person she knew of that didn't hurt her and, even then, it would take me an hour for me to convince her to come out to speak to me. And even then, just the look in her eyes and the way she spoke…" She shook her head.

Julia recoiled. Oh god…

"I believe my presence there was part of her reward system or whatever fucked up system her father had in place for her, I don't know," Zelda admitted. "You have no idea how much I hate myself for not getting her out of there sooner. I was so happy to hear she had disappeared, but I was so terrified. Because even though she was out of her father's control, her powers were unstable. It's why I hired a Sleeper to track her down and keep an eye on her powers."

Julia's brow furrowed. "What's a 'Sleeper'?"

"A secret agent."

Julia's eyebrows shot up. "You hired a spy to watch over Tesla?"

Zelda huffed. "I had no choice," she hissed. "I was still underneath my father at the time, but even when I was out, I was on the run from his loyal lapdogs, avoiding the law myself, and bringing her with me would have worsened everything. The Sleeper I hired came from a contact I know and they've done their job well."

Julia pinched the bridge of her nose. "And what exactly is their job?"

"As I instructed, they were to find Tesla, but they weren't to make their presence known or extract her," Zelda explained. "All I need the Sleeper to do was to keep tabs on her. Once I was able to find someone to make and produce a reverse serum, I supplied Sleeper with the means to make sure Tesla never got out of control with her powers."

Julia blinked as she took all this in. "Okay… I have so many questions. A reverse serum?"

Zelda nodded. "Yes. You should know it as 'The Cure'. Magic Hunters can take the reverse serum as a way to limit, suppress, or even destroy the Anti-Ethernano in our bodies just like Anti-Ethernano serum does the same to any wizard. It's not mass-produced because the formula is too complex and takes far too long."

"Okay, I knew about The Cure, but how exactly does this 'Sleeper' get Tesla to take it?"

"I'm not sure," Zelda confessed. "I give them my requests and they fulfill without question and let me know every day when she has taken the serum."

This was news to Julia. "She has to take it every day? She's that powerful she has to take a reversal agent to keep herself in control? What exactly can she do? Because let me tell you, the only superpowers she claims she has all are sexual and involve her boyfriend or cosplay."

Zelda's lips twitched and a fondness filmed her face. "So she told me," she murmured. "Her boyfriend… Is he good to her?"

"Only the best." Julia snorted. "The guy's obsessively in love with her."

"Good. I'm glad." Zelda meant that. "She deserves to have that sort of healthy love in her life. I was afraid Hylia would never want to love again."

Julia was unsure what to do with that information, so she pressed, "Her powers?"

"Oh. Yes." Zelda finished her wine in one last swallow and set down her glass. "Tesla's powers come from her having hyperspiritism."

"I've heard of that," Julia realized, "but more because of Magic. Some Mages create too much Magic for themselves and, as a result, they have to go through some procedures or medications to regulate it. My friend Eiji and his father Jet have hyperspiritism with their Speed Magic. A Hunter can have that?"

"Apparently so, because Tesla does." Zelda shifted in her seat. "I've never been sure if this is something she was born with or if this is something her father did, but she has it. As such, the Anti-Ethernano produced itself to the point it lives inside every single cell and atom she has in her being. For me, having Anti-Ethernano is the same as having Magic. It lives in my spirit. For Tesla, it's completely different."

The realization donned on Julia and so did the absolute horror of it all. "Oh god…" She looked at Zelda with wide eyes. "She's made of Anti-Ether. She is Anti-Ether."

Zelda nodded somberly. "Yes."

Julia sat back in her seat. "But… That shouldn't be possible," she whispered. "How is she…? That's why you have her take The Cure," she concluded upon her second realization for the day. "This isn't just controlling her powers. You're trying to keep her stable. Without The Cure, if she's made of Anti-Ether…"

"Yes." Zelda looked out the living room window. "One touch from her could have unfathomable damage."

A chuckle.

Zelda looked over to see Julia suppressing laughter. Julia waved her hand. "Don't worry about me. I'm just hysterically laughing because everyone I love is in severe danger from themselves or someone else and I'm supposed to think this is normal." Managing to control the urge to laugh, Julia questioned, "How do you know Tesla will take The Cure every day? I mean her dad is getting out of jail in January. What if she becomes emotional?"

"We've been giving her a higher concentration of The Cure," Zelda explained. "Now that she's an adult and after years of cataloging her triggers and reactions, it's easier to manage her intake of The Curse. As for how I know she'll take it every day, I don't. But I have trust in Sleeper. They've made sure she's been safe for the last decade and until I end my contract with them and their agency, they will continue to keep her safe and in control."

Julia nodded even though she did not know what she was nodding to. "But how can you trust Sleeper? What if they're a double agent for the Cerberus Hunter and for your father?" She was bewildered when she saw Zelda smile. "I'm sorry. Is this funny or something?"

"No, no, it's just… You remind me of me." Zelda quelled her smile. "Trust me when I say I looked at every possible outcome in hiring an external source. Double agents, triple agents—there were so many risks. But there were far larger risks if I took her with me. I was already the prime suspect of kidnapping her when she disappeared. Her father would have tortured me for the information if my father hadn't stepped in. And when I left my father's cult, I knew I'd be scrutinized by either Spiritless who were paid off by my father, Minister Marignano, or that stupid Faction who knew my identity from double agents. Keeping Tesla far away from me was the best thing that could happen to her." She lifted a shoulder. "Sleeper filled me in on everything they could. Where she ended up in foster care; who took care of her; her grades and her interests—I got to know my cousin for who she should have been."

"So you knew all this time Tesla and I are friends," Julia accused. "Why didn't you say anything?"

"It was better to leave you in the dark," Zelda supposed. "You have no idea how many strings I've been pulling. And finally, after all these years, I can protect her like I should have years ago." She flexed her hand. "I should have spoken out against her father. I should have begged for my father to take Tesla with us whenever we left her. Even if he was a son of a bitch, he would have treated her better. I should've done something. But I didn't. And that cost Tesla everything." Her hand clenched to a fist. "But not anymore. Not while I'm still standing."

Julia tried to wrap her head around it all. "Okay, so say Tesla does believe you because I have a pretty good feeling she doesn't, then what? What are you going to do? I know for a fact she won't want to leave where she is now." She shook her head. "Hell, if you even bring up her and Jax living together, she will go on defense in seconds. She's not going to uproot her life for you and certainly, not for me or for Gary."

"I don't plan to strip her of the life she has," Zelda soothed. "At least, not at first. If she can control her powers, she can live a normal life. The Hunters won't want to touch her. They might have Anti-Ethernano, but once she controls her powers and can enter and exit that state of mind on command, no amount of The Cure will be able to stop her powers."

"I don't like the sound of that," Julia admitted, troubled. "On one hand, I mean it's badass my friend is pretty badass. But on the other hand, I know good people can do bad things when they're emotionally triggered. What if something happens to Tesla and she becomes too emotional? We have to have a countermeasure, right?"

Zelda pursed her lips. "That's why she's the most dangerous of us all. No amount of The Cure could cut her off without killing her and I refuse to kill her. I won't rip Tesla from the life she built from herself away from this screwed up family and this Hunter cult. She has every right to live her life away from being a murderer and a con artist. I don't want her involved with the Bureau if I can help it. But if her powers end up doing more harm than good…" She let out a sigh. "I don't know what I'll do. She's the only person I consider family anymore and she doesn't even remember me. I won't kill her."

"So…what will you do?" Julia questioned hesitantly.

"If there's one thing I do know, it's that the agent I hired as always made sure Tesla stayed in control of her powers when her emotions were out of control," Zelda said. "As horrible as it may sound to you, if I can't calm Tesla down, I will trust Sleeper will do what they must to calm her down."

"You mean kill her?"

"No." Zelda let her eyes drift away. "My contract is a no-kill contract. And with how much Sleeper has proved to me how dedicated they are at their job, I have full trust they will devise a way to keep Tesla alive and have her retain her powers. They have to." Her eyes darkened. "Their contract forbids them to harm Tesla in any way. And if they do, I will make sure they regret ever laying a hand on my only family. Which reminds me…" Her dark gaze swiveled to Julia. "I have a task for you."

Julia raised an eyebrow. "Let me guess: you want me to tell Tesla I'm a Hunter so she doesn't freak out too much?"

"Even better." Zelda's lips curled into an unreadable frown. "Tesla and I are meeting on Wednesday. I know she doesn't trust we're related, so I had Sleeper gather her DNA and run an ancestry check to present on Wednesday. You will be joining Tesla and me for dessert. I want you to come out to her as a Magic Hunter, but also, I want you to help convince Tesla she requires further assistance in the learning of her powers."

"So extortion and coercion," Julia scoffed. "Yeah, sounds lovely. Tricking my best friend into doing something she doesn't want to do."

"It doesn't matter what she wants to do or not," Zelda remarked coolly. "She has no choice but to hone her powers. I told you I won't take her away from her life. But if she isn't convinced to join you and me in learning about her powers, there is no guarantee any of us will be safe when her father is released from prison from him or from her."

A city was there, but it seemed impossible it could be there. The air was flooded with water, yet this city stood tall and proud like it was not an issue. Schools of fish and visions of manatees and dolphins and magical fish like an Abaia and an Isonade seemed native to this city. And, sure, half-humans lived in this majestic city, but they were nothing like how they were portrayed in the movies or books. The sirens who lived amongst this city might have had flowing hair, but their eyes were of vipers and their teeth as jagged and full as a shark's. What the other half-humans looked like were just that—normal people with teeth carved differently to sustain their aquatic lifestyle, eyes sharper, and scales glinted on their skin, but they looked relatively normal and happy.

The focus swam deeper and deeper only for a shadow to overwhelm it. A quick look up and through the shimmer of the water, a winding serpentine body was swimming overhead. Bigger and thicker than any creature who lived in this underwater city. Most of the creatures stood and bowed low until this creature had passed.

And something compelled the focus to accompany this creature to its destination.

The creature led the focus deeper and deeper into the city until they had come to the opened gates that led to a temple like the focus had never seen. Pillars upheld carvings of sea creatures that were deemed extinct and ancient amongst the sea. A status of a Triton—one of the fiercest people of the sea—riding a swordfish welcomed all alongside many of statues of merfolk and sea creatures. But for some reason, the focus stopped before it could go and further and watched as the serpentine creature came forth and circled around. Eyes the color of the sea and scales a precious aqua-teal, it regarded the focus for a moment before it pointedly looked at the temple.

The focus did as well.

The temple doors opened.

Out of the darkness, deep-sea blue eyes glared into the light.

The water shifted as a horned snout broke free from the temple. The head was larger than life with markings and cracks to the tribal-like design it bear on its face. As it slithered out from its dwelling pass, the underbelly of such a beast was a soft white, but it held spikes dorsal fingers that looked sharper than its teeth. Its fins expanded like wings, a powerful display. By the time the entire body was freed from the table, the focus could see this creature and the other matched for enormous size and that air of nobility. No hostility threatened the focus. Instead, both creatures' had eyes on the focus in a fond interest.

Bubble babbled and popped when the focus tried to speak.

Both creatures shared a look before the first creature ducked its head. 'Get on my back,' he commanded. So, it was a male. 'Let us show you your kingdom, Prince of the Sea.'

The focus reached out a hand—

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

EH-EH-EH-EH!

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

A hand grappled for a ringing Compact and shut off the alarm. Silver groaned as he was forced out of his sleep and back into reality. Hair jostled and eyes bleary, he stared at his ceiling as fragments of the dreamy sea came back to him with its whispers and that deep rumble. That must have been some dream, he murmured. But what was it about? He rubbed his face and yawned. I can't even remember it. He sat up and checked his Compact. Sure, he had messages from his ice-skating group, from other friends, from his intramural swim team about a team dinner this afternoon, but…

"No messages from my beloved," Silver said. "Not even a message for me to stay away from her." A note of sadness hit him, but he chased it away as he sent her a message.

« Good morning, my beloved! Please make sure you eat a full breakfast before you get started for the day »

He sent it and was keen to just get up and walk away when he accidentally scrolled and saw Ena had texted him. "Huh? Fernandes?" He looked through the series of text messages:

« You're doing an awful job as my assistant. When I said eight in the morning, I meant eight in the morning »

« Oh, look at that, you're late. To be expected from a lovesick puppy who can't keep his head out of the clouds »

« Don't ever say I didn't try to be nice to you, Fullbuster. You're on thin ice »

« You are completely and utterly useless. Don't ever talk to me. Your tenure as my assistant is over »

Silver's eyebrow twitched and he cursed. Why, that little… But he did check the time. Crap. I did tell Fernandes I'd help her at eight. And it's past eleven. He peeled off his comforter and tore up his room to find some clothes all whilst he called Ena. The call was sent to voicemail on the second ring as he stripped out of his pajamas and into a fresh seat of boxer-briefs and pants. The second call immediately went to voicemail, but the third call she picked up and she was not happy.

"Listen here, Fullbuster, I don't accept your apology. You're exonerated from being my assistant—"

"What does that even me?" Silver wrestled on a sweater. "Whatever. The point is—"

"Of course idiots like you wouldn't understand big words," Ena interjected dryly.

Silver gritted his teeth as he scurried over to the bathroom with only one sock on and rooted around for his toothbrush. "The point is," he hissed, "I don't care if you accept my apology because I'm not giving you one. Just tell me where you are—?"

"How uncouthly barbarian of you," Ena sniffed, insulted. "I deserve an apology—!"

"Yeah, well, you're not getting one." Silver put his Compact down as Ena seethed over the Compact a hurl of insults and he tended to wet his brush, putting on toothpaste, wetting it again, and brushing his teeth. When he picked up the Compact, Ena was still giving him death threats, and he interrupted, "Just tell me where you are, Fernandes. Stop getting all diva."

Ena gasped. "You have not seen 'diva'!"

Silver spat into the sink and kept brushing his teeth. "Well, you are one right now, so I guess I have," he countered, snarky. "Look, stop messing around and just text me your location and I'll be there as soon as I can."

"You—!"

Silver ended the call and finished brushing his teeth. With a quick floss, a rinse of his mouth, and a heavy reminder he needed to use deodorant, he was pack in his room to look for another sock. He wrangled on a mismatching sock to see Ena had sent him a text.

⌜MESSAGES

Maleficent

Maleficent has shared her location with you. ⌟

⌜MESSAGES

Maleficent

It takes 24 minutes to get here. Do not be late. ⌟

Silver snorted as he left his room with his wallet in his back pocket and jogged down the steps. He responded to her:

« I'm never late. You're just early »

He came down to the first floor to see his mother in the kitchen. "Morning, Mom!"

"Someone is up late," Juvia tittered. "Did Silver have fun at Luna's party?"

Silver smiled as he went by the front door to toe on his boots. "Yeah! The scavenger hunt thing was genius! She looked so surprised!" Boots on, he grabbed his jacket and made his way into the kitchen. "Mmm… Smells amazing, Mom! Is that for my team's potluck tonight?"

"Yes," Juvia confirmed. "I've made sure to make enough for the entire team to have seconds." She pouted. "Juvia is sad Juvia can't come. Juvia would love to see Silver's teammates' parents."

Silver laughed. "You have a job, Mom, and you're keeping an eye on the trial. I think you're excused." He reached up to kiss her cheek. "I'll be back before the dinner starts to come get everything." He rolled his eyes. "Fernandes is having a little fit I'm running late to help her out." A warning finger came up when Juvia looked ready to tease him. "Not a word, Mom."

"Juvia just wanted to say it's nice Silver is getting along with Ena," Juvia swore with a grin.

Silver groaned as he headed out of the kitchen. "Bye, Mom."

"Bye, Silver! Juvia loves you!"

"Love you too!"

Silver let the house and tapped his Compact to bring up Ena's current location. "Twenty-four minutes, huh?" he mumbled. "Fine, Fernandes. I'll be there in twenty-three minutes. How do you like that?"

°•°•°•°

"You're late," were the first words Ena said to him the moment he entered the store. She had texted him to meet within Magnolia, but they were at a tailor's shop for men and women. She had been given the royal treatment. A cushy seat, hot tea, and a few snacks while the tailor met with her.

Silver shot her a dark look. "Well, I'm here, aren't I?"

Ena offered the tailor a pretty smile. "Would you excuse my assistant? I'm still trying to polish him. He's still a rough draft right now."

TICK!

A tick mark pounded against Silver's skull. Fernandes…

The tailor tittered. "Oh, my darling, that's quite all right." A Minstrish accent carried his words. "It's hard to find decent assistants these days, but…" He gave him a cursory look. "I don't know, darling. This one might be homespun wool, but if you look carefully, you can turn that drab into something unique." An idea occurred to him. "I was thinking—"

"—cashmere leggings!" Ena and the tailor chorused and finished with a laugh while Silver huffily settled in the seat beside Ena.

"Oh, but I'm being rude!" Ena placed a hand on Silver's arm that had him tense up. "Gigi, I'd like you to meet Silver Fullbuster, my extremely late assistant, and, well"—she waved a dismissive hand—"he's the Prince of the Sea of Fairy Tail. Fullbuster, this is Sir Gianni Gieves."

"Gigi for short," Gigi explained.

⌜MAGNOLIA TOWN

Name: Sir Gianni Gieves

Age: 51

Occupation: Tailor

Likes: sequins Dislikes: fleece

Special Note: Gigi is a well-known tailor for his contemporary looks and has clothed royalty from around the world! He moved to Magnolia when his niece lost her parents to help her and her baby!⌟

Silver held out a hand. "It's nice to meet you, Mister Gigi."

Gigi looked a little put-off at the 'mister' part and merely put a few fingers atop Silver's. "Charmed."

Ena laughed. "Gigi doesn't go by 'mister'," she explained to Silver. "Just 'Gigi'."

"Oh." Silver colored. "I'm sorry, then. It's nice to meet you, Gigi."

Gigi smiled. "Nice to meet you as well." He shot Ena a playful look. "My darling fairy, you never told me your assistant was a Mage. I've seen this boy a few times during your little guild games." A wink was thrown at Silver. "Quite the impressive stats, lad."

"I didn't think it was important," Ena jumped in before Silver could get in a word. "Anyways, let's get back to what we were discussing." She moved her notepad and pen to Silver. "Take notes," she instructed stiffly. "We're running over some new ideas for the women's lineup I'm doing for Fairy Tail for spring."

Silver blinked. "Oh. S-Sure." He took the pen and paper and flipped to a new page.

"Well, anyway," Ena began, "as I was saying…"

Silver's brow furrowed as he took notes, but, much to his relief, Ena had graced him with a Gale-Force pen and he was able to jot down words quicker and clearer than he ever would have on his own. He understood little of what was going on, but at least he had the jargon down. It was not until he was on his third page of notes that he spared a moment to look up at Ena as she laughed alongside Gigi over some little fashion joke. She's really passionate about this stuff, he realized. I thought it was some stupid hobby, but… This is her life. It's her goal. It's weird, but… A smile curled onto his lips. It sorta makes me happy I get to see her like this.

"Are you paying attention?"

Silver snapped out of his reverie to see Ena giving him a side-glare. Huffing, he muttered, "Yeah, yeah, keep talking. I'm writing notes."

"Good. And stop smiling like that," Ena commanded. "It's weird." With that, she launched back into her conversation with Gigi.

Silver took diligent notes and listened to every word to try and even understand some of the lingo being thrown around. But he could not for the life of him stop the smile on his face.

"Oomph!" Luna groaned as she shakily got to her feet. Sweat shined off her and she was grateful the Deodorant Lacrima her mother got her instead of regular deodorant was extra strength for athletes.

"Again!"

Luna glared at Gale. Sure, he had broken a sweat, but at least he looked relatively untouched whereas she knew her back sweat showed and her hair was a wet mess. "No," she snapped. "This isn't boot camp! We're just warming up! This is cruel and unusual punishment!"

Gale crossed his arms and raised his chin. "Again."

Luna put a hand on her hip. "How much longer are we going to do this?" she demanded to know. "Papa never makes me warm up this long."

"Because he's been going too easy on you," Gale reasoned as he moved to circle her.

Luna snorted. "He has not been going easy on me. He's been pushing me pretty hard." She crossed her arms. "Too hard," she muttered.

"And I'm going to push you more." The corner of Gale's lips twitched when Luna glared at him. "I'm in charge of your training, Blondie, whether you like it or not."

"I don't."

"And the difference between your old man and me is I've been at your side to see you in action," Gale told her, glossing over her mutters. "I know the raw talent you have Magic-wise, but to make the cut as a Mage with your powers, you need to train your body to the same limit as your powers. And so far"—he dropped down and his sweep kick knocked Luna onto her butt and back—"you're as pathetic as they come."

Luna growled. "Asshole." Gale offered a hand to her, but she batted it away to get back up. "What's the point of this? Trying to get me angry so I use my powers or something? Or is this your natural personality to be a jerk?"

Gale shook his head. "Call me what you want. Your dad put me in charge of getting you up to par. But all I see is a little princess afraid of doing hard work because she wants to look cute for her boyfriend."

Whether Luna was red from exertion or anger or abashment was anyone's guess. "I'm not afraid of doing hard work," she defended, "but this is too much!"

"No. This isn't enough," Gale countered. "Whether you thought your old man was pushing you or not is irrelevant. It's clear me to me he took it too easy on you after all these months." He stood directly in front of her and smirked at the defiance in her stare. "You've got a long way to go if you think you can beat me in a sparring match, Blondie. I don't even think you could beat me to the door."

Luna did not know why she did, but her fist shot out, and, much to her ire, Gale caught it like he was catching an easy toss. "Stop insulting me," she gritted.

"Make me," Gale said, simple as that. He surprised her when his hand snatched her wrist and he spun her around to press her fist into her back and deadlocked his other arm around her neck. She struggled and grunted, but Gale was immovable. "I will keep dishing out insults until you grow a damn spine," he hissed into her ear.

"You—!"

"What, Blondie? Want to call me an 'asshole'?" Gale taunted. "Doesn't have too big of a punch to it considering I have you at my mercy."

"Let me go!" Luna spat. When Gale freed her, she stumbled away from him. "Ugh, I feel sorry for the poor girl you love, having to deal with a brute like you," she seethed.

Gale shrugged. "She likes that I'm not as polished as her boy toy."

That brought Luna into perplexity. "She has a boyfriend?"

"Details," Gale dismissed. "Since I'm tired of hearing you bitch and moan, we can get started on your actual training. Your dad says he's gotten you into MMA. We'll build on that, but let's face it. You're not exactly stacked. You've got the muscles of a dancer, but that's it."

Luna raised an eyebrow. "So?"

"So, we'll try a different type of martial arts," Gale told her. "You'll be doing kickboxing which is a given. But since gymnastics and dance is your strong suit, we'll play to that with. Capoeira is a dancing martial art used in Andüsa. Taijutsu and jujutsu are standards for you too—"

"Hold on," Luna stopped him. "Papa didn't say I was learning all of this. And what good is learning all this hand to hand stuff if the bad guy has a weapon or something?"

Gale was pleased and even proud she asked. "Trust me when I say I brought this up to your old man. Your Magic is OP enough where a weapon isn't necessary. But we're training you like you're a Spiritless grunt. Eventually, you'll train with a staff, a sword, and a whip."

"What about guns?" Luna wanted to know, though she seemed hesitant and a little leery. "Do I…have to learn how to shoot one?"

Gale's face hardened. "No. We don't use guns on our enemies."

"But Gary—"

"Gary's guns are forged out of ice," Gale cut in. "And his bullets are compressed Magic that only freezes his opponent. We don't kill. If I can help it, you will never need to know how to use a gun."

Luna nodded and her body relaxed. "O-Okay. That sounds good."

Gale swept closer and lifted his chin so assuring ruby connected with timid chocolate. "Best thing about being a Mage is while bullets hurt like a bitch, Spiritless guns are useless against us for taking us out. You will never need a wield a gun or shoot one. Not while I'm standing."

Luna swallowed and nodded. "Okay."

"Good." Gale pulled away. "Glad we're at an understanding because it's time for the real training to begin."

Luna perked. "Finally. And what's—? Ah!" She groaned with how hard she hit her back against the mat.

Gale leaned over her with a smirk. "Start with simple positions. And, uh, try not to let me knock you over so easily." He winked at her. "Dragons prefer their prey to have a little more fight in them. Makes the hunt a lot more fun."

When he moved out of sight, Luna huffed. "I'll show you a fight, jerk," she grumbled. And with aching arms, she pushed herself up and got back to her feet.

°•°•°•°

Natsu watched Luke demonstrated with his chain whip and nodded as Luke whirled around with precision to draw his whip back to him and dead concentration his face. "Wind it down," Natsu called. "That's enough."

Luke did as his father asked and let his chain whip rest in his hands, breathing deeply. "How was that?"

"Excellent," Natsu praised. "Watch yourself when you lunge. You're trusting your forward leg too much, but your lame leg is too exposed. Tuck it closer to your body so you don't risk anyone kicking it out."

Luke nodded and took that into account. "Right. Okay."

"You can put away the whip. We'll move on to hand to hand combat."

Luke drew back in the chain whip into a Star Coin and pocketed it. "How many?"

"Two," Natsu responded. "Go ahead."

Luke brought his hands up then slowly back down for a cool down and closed his eyes. Like he had done so a hundred times, he reached for his Magic, but… His eyebrow furrowed. He sought deeper, but he could not latch onto that familiar tranquility. What's wrong with me? My Magic… It's so far from me…

Luke took a deep breath and doge further into he could feel his Magic embrace him back and gently wash over him like gentle tides on white sand. His hands brought up with a fist pushed into the butt of a palm and two fingers drawn. He pressed his finger to his lips and as he pushed the finger away, he blew out a mist of gold Magic. The mist swirled into two beings, monk compromised of gold Magic with glowing eyes and their appropriate garb. They bowed to Luke and Luke bowed back.

Within seconds, Luke and the magical assailants slipped into their starting positions.

Natsu circled the arena. "Go!"

The first assailant came for him first with a fury. Luke blocked both shots taken at him, but he had to duck when the second assailant used the diversion for the upper hand. Sweeping low, Luke made sure to glance as both assailants leapt away. One pounced back on him, but Luke was ready for a spin and a kick to the side before bringing up his to block a kick to the chest. Each blow pushed him back, but his teeth gritted as he held steady.

LUB-DUB.

Luke's eyes widened. What was that?

That thought cost him when a kick came to his stomach and Luke sprang back and knelt, pained.

Natsu was not at all impressed. "Keep focused, Luke," he snapped. "Keep your eyes on your opponents and your mind aware of your surroundings."

"Got it," Luke grunted. He stood up as his assailants went back to their starting positions. Luke rushed first and broke for the left assailant with a flying kick that was doge and he turned with the fist aimed for him so it missed him by hairs before grabbing the assailant's arm and flipping him down. The second assailant made their mark, but Luke threw his captive at the assailant.

LUB-DUB.

"Good!" Natsu barked. "Make your opponents fight each other!"

Luke had no time to accept the praised as both his opponents came sprinting towards him with one going high while the other went low. Luke jumped away from one, but he braced himself for the second and they tumbled. Refusing to let the other go, they grabbled for dominance, but Luke had no time for a test of strength and he tucked and flipped around to fling his assailant and crash it into the other incoming.

LUB-DUB.

The next moves were pushing it for Luke, but he did not mind. Two against one was never ideal, but it was a necessary hazard to learn how to train in such unideal conditions when you were a Mage. This was not a fight that would be on a mat with rules and regulations. This was the real world where any number of enemies could assault with you without regard for honor and only in it for the glory and the money along with it.

"Staff!" Natsu ordered.

Luke leaped away from his opponents to whirl his hands around and his fists collided. Slowly pulling them apart, he crafted a bo staff thick with Magic until it solidified itself and his opponents whipped around their own. He dashed for both assailants as they did the same, but where they took the offensive, he was on the defensive and was forced to hold his staff against one while he avoided strikes from the other.

LUB-DUB.

Luke felt something teasing the Magic that felt comfortable. It was an odd sensation, but when his eyes cut to an assailant trying to sneak up on him and he was forced on his back and kicked them a distance away, he did not mind it. What is this? This feels…amazing! Luke jerked back to his feet and used his staff for leverage to kick an assailant with two feet.

Seconds went by, but in those seconds, Luke could feel his Zen Magic be imposed by another presence. With each second, Luke moved faster than his assailants anticipated and would slam them to the ground and strike blows to their sides or to their legs. Concentration was a mask on his face, but when he slammed an opponent down on his back…

…his lips twitched into a smirk.

Natsu's eyes narrowed when he saw something flicker in the two golden opponents. And there it was again. Just a flicker of black. What is he doing? He called, "Luke, sword!"

Luke spun around and dismissed his staff to root for his Star Coin. His assailants did not stop as they traded their staffs for swords and went to ambush him. He tossed the coin. "With this coin, I summon the great sword of fire and sun"—he ducked underneath the strikes from the swords and flipped away to catch the coin—"Leonis of the Lion, Leo!"

In a flash of Magic, the coin burst into the celestial claymore sword and Luke raised it to keep back both incoming swords from cutting into his shoulders. His teeth gritted when his assailants pressed farther down on him. I'm not…gonna make it…

A chill ambled up his spine.

His lips twitched into a wide smirk. No… They won't make it. He pushed back with brutal force and pounced as his assailants stumbled back. He threw his entire weight onto one assailant to pin them beneath them with his sword to their neck. Surrendering, the magical opponent disappeared into a mist. Luke whirled around—

SHING!

Swords clashed.

Natsu watched as Luke pushed back to give his opponent a wide berth, but his eyes fell onto the magical opponent as more black crawled into their form. "Luke," he tried to warn, "what are you doing?"

But Luke did not hear him. He cocked his head to the side as his opponent approached him. I've never moved like this before, he realized. It feels…good… He rocked on the balls of his feet before launching at his assailant. His dark eyes flicked as his pupils brightened into an alarming scarlet and he did not notice his golden opponent was darkening by the second into something callous and cold. But when his opponent got too confident in their strokes, Luke took the plunge and dug his sword into their side.

Natsu's eyes widened. "Luke!" he shouted. "That's enough!"

But Luke did not hear him. He flipped away and landed in a low crouch. This…feels incredible! His sword drag on the ground as he pushed himself up. He watched as his opponent mutated and shifted and convulsed until a feral black had overtaken its holy form with gleaming red eyes. Hits mouth parted to reveal jagged teeth and saliva drooling from it.

Luke let out a cackle as he raised his sword. "You're mine."

A screech left the mutilated opponent and it charged.

Luke shifted his feet. His smirk showed his sharp canines. "Wrong move." In a flash, he was in his opponent's face with sclera doused in black and red as his eyes. He bounced on his creation and it writhed and screamed, but Luke did not care. His sword should have stood at the neck, but no… That would be too easy. Luke lifted his sword and a fleeting giggle left him. "You're dead now!"

His sword descended…

…to the heart.

"Luke!"

A warm hand.

Luke's sword stopped just a bread width away from the heart of his creation.

Natsu's eyes had transcended into that of a Demon as he pressed his hand down on Luke's shoulder. "That's enough," he said in a low growl.

"I have him," Luke panted, crazed eyes focused on the squirming invention of his own making. "He's mine."

Natsu clenched his jaw. "I said, 'that's enough'."

Luke's smirk turned into bared teeth. But he did not defy his father's command. The creature vanquished itself into a fit of black smoke that bothered neither father nor son. Luke's sword dispersed back into a useless Star Coin, a little dull and done for today. He dropped his hands to his sides.

Natsu removed his hand, but he kept his demonic eyes. "You're done for this morning," he decided. "Meditate. Find me in the afternoon. We'll start again then."

Luke rose to his feet and gave a slight nod before he stole his water bottle and headed for the edge of the yard and into the woods. Natsu watched him leave as his eyes reverted to that of a human. Unlike Igneel, I can still get through to Luke. He cracked his neck. But it won't be like that for long. And I need to be ready when that day comes.

The District of Ishgar was its own capital district which meant it was strategically used for administrative purposes for the Magic Council. Sure, some Mages and workers regularly lived in the District of Ishgar and those who commuted from the neighboring countries for work. The District of Ishgar housed a handful of magical universities, one for Magicianry, Alchemy, Alkahestry, Knights, and Mages and a couple of primary and secondary schools as well. But the paparazzi was far more interested in the Ishgaran Magic Council Courthouse and were waiting with hungry eyes and questions for jurors to step outside or for the public spectators to break and speak about their case.

Nashi and Lucy had been sheltered from the onslaught when Mister Wilson escorted them out of a private exit and had reservations for them at XOX, a nearby high-rise modern Ishgaran restaurant. A couple other high-profile Mages and Sorcerers who were attending the case had come to the establishment and exchanged pleasantries with Lucy and shook hands with Mister Wilson with a quick introduction to a weary Nashi. After that, Mister Wilson guided Lucy and Nashi to their own table away from the crowd and here they sat with their lunch. Býleistr had slunk off on his own after promising to make sure he paid close attention to his and Nashi's link if she needed him.

"This is pointless," Nashi decided to say. "He's toying with us, right?"

"So it would seem so," Lucy supposed. "I've been watching the jurors closely and the judge. The specialists Mister Broussard has been using as well as eyewitnesses of the destruction have moved a few of them. But what's his angle? What he is trying to accomplish?"

"Biding his time," Mister Wilson guessed with utmost certainty. "I understand why Mister Broussard does well as a criminal attorney. He treats the courtroom like it's his own stage."

"He's a cocky asshole."

"Nashi!" Lucy admonished.

Nashi rolled her eyes as she tucked in some more of her salmon. "Well, he is," she insisted. "He pisses me off so much. Did you see how many times he got told for having to get back to his original point? Why is he doing this? I don't even think the judge is moved. All he's done is proved how terrible shit is in Bellum—and it is—but he's said nothing about Skade being guilty."

Lucy sighed. "Which has me nervous," she confessed. "Mister Wilson, I think you're right. Mister Broussard is gearing up to something big. He's acting like he's won this case and it makes me wonder what he's hiding."

Nashi paused. "Can he legally do that though? Hide things? I thought he had to tell Miss Wilson everything he was going to use in the court?"

"He does," Mister Wilson assured. "Both attorneys went through the discovery and should have exchanged witness lists and all forms of evidence should have been available for them. But it is possible for them to pull some surprises in court." He took a bite of his chicken salad. "But Miss Wilson will be able to handle any surprises that come here way. That I'm sure. She's quite the strategist."

"I notice you keep saying 'Miss Wilson'," Lucy noted. "So I take it she's not…?"

Mister Wilson smiled and shook his head. "No, no, our last names are just a coincidence. But we've been asked more often than you think. I don't envy her partner. They have their work cut out for them. From what I hear, Miss Wilson is quite the ball-buster." As Lucy laughed, Mister Wilson snuck Nashi a wink.

Nashi hid her smile as she brought up her Compact. She saw a series of text messages and notifications. One of her group chats was Ellie whining about a job she was currently on as an effort for some holiday spending money for New Year's Eve. The individual texts were just friends picking up from wherever they had left off the day before. They shouldn't suspect anything, she told herself. I told my friends I had a job out on the other side of Fiore for a few days.

A text from Dazzler dropped in:

⌜MESSAGES

Dazzler Lafayette

You've got this. Just keep calm and do your thing ⌟

Nashi just wanted to be sure. Kyler, you promise me Dazzler and Julia and Mustang and Linus aren't going to be in court?

Mister Wilson continued his playful conversation with Lucy, but Kyler responded, Yes. Mirella approached Miss Lafayette, Mister Marvel, Miss Fullbuster, and Mister Vastia to depose them. Miss Lafayette, Miss Fullbuster, and Mister Marvel agreed they would not consent to a testimony unless the innocent was brought up. Mister Vastia, however, was not available and was reported to be out of the area until further notice.

Lucy blinked as a realization came to her. "Oh, shoot. I'm supposed to call Natsu!" She passed an apologetic look to Nashi. "I'm so sorry, sweetie. Mister Wilson—"

"Mama, it's okay," Nashi soothed. "Go call Papa and tell him to go easy on Lu, okay? She is the birthday girl tomorrow." She managed a glum smile. "And we're missing it…"

Lucy kissed her daughter's cheek. "And she understands. But I'll let him know. Gale's training Lu starting today, so let's hope she hasn't tried to kill him." She looked at Mister Wilson. "Excuse me." Grabbing her purse, Lucy abandoned the table to make her way to a quieter destination.

Nashi slumped in her seat. "Give it to me straight," she murmured. "Do we have a chance?"

"What Mister Broussard is doing is smart and we knew this would happen if we chose a jury trial over a bench trial," Mister Wilson informed. "He's using the jury's feelings to override factual evidence. We've heard witnesses who were victims to the disaster speak of deaths to friends and relatives, losses of homes, analysts have given us statistics and financial forecasts until these Bellish cities can recover and compensate the victims—"

"But none of this traces back to Skade—!"

"Because Broussard is more than aware Skade isn't the one behind this." Mister Wilson broke his roll and spread butter onto it. "We've spoken extensively before the trial on the subject with the evidence gathered. There was some footage of Skade resisting arrest and a few controversial videos that were obvious set-ups, but none of which deliberately captured Skade in a position of conspiring terrorist. No, Broussard was instructed to do as he does in normal court and weave a story that has the jurors turn against the defendant just because the other party is that pitiful."

"B-But that's stupid!" Nashi protested. "And beside the point of court!"

Mister Wilson nodded. "It's is," he agreed. "But we need the jury's emotions to be in our favor and Miss Wilson will do a wonderful job turning opinions. I can tell the judge isn't as impressed with Broussard as everyone else. I don't think Judge Trumphour believes Skade is guilty."

"Well, at least we have someone on our side." Nashi took a scoop of mashed potatoes and inhaled it.

Mister Wilson watched her closely. "I know this isn't ideal, but please be patient. We cannot lose our cool. Skade has done a remarkable job staying collected. We must do the same." And he took a bite from his roll.

Nashi sighed. "Yeah, I know." But it doesn't mean I'm not worried. I just want us all to go home. She forked a piece of salmon and broccoli and carrots. Soon, she promised herself. We'll all be home soon. With that thought enough to relax her, she went back to eating her lunch.

°•°•°•°

Once the court had been filled with the grand jury, the spectators, and all courtroom personnel, the defense and the plaintiff were readying themselves for their next verbal spar. Skade had been brought back and looked noticeably cleaner. It seemed like he had been allowed to have a bath and fresh meat for lunch and, while his wounds were great, it was easier to see the extent of his wounds without matted fur and dried blood. Miss Wilson kept herself calm and collected with her head held high. But she took interest in the fact Chinlien was noticeably absent. Did the bastard up and turn tail? No. That's an easy way out. He revels in victory. She looked closely at Remy who was still a nervous wreck. The co-counsel isn't giving anything away.

Miss Wilson's eyes darted back to get a look at Hendrika. She seemed tense and relaxed at the same time, but her eyes continuously waved over to the courtroom doors. She keeps looking at the doors. I'm assuming it's for Broussard. But it's unmistakable. She's fearful. But for what? Mammon couldn't find anything and Talia, Kyler, and I couldn't find anything out of place or anyone watching her. So why…?

THWOP!

Chinlien entered the courtroom doors in a hurry and shook a view hands on his way to his seat. With a nod to the guard who let him into the other side of the courtroom, Chinlien brushed past Skade's cage and his eyes connected with Miss Wilson's own.

…and he smirked.

Miss Wilson narrowed her eyes. Something's wrong. She watched as Chinlien sat and murmured something to his co-counsel that had Remy sigh with relief. I don't like this look. If his idiot co-counsel looks calm, then that means Broussard figured out something big. That could mean he knows Skade and Gary are one in the same and plan to expose them. Or it could mean—

"All rise." The courtroom rose at Mister Chigurupati's request as Ocrevus entered "This court is once again in session. His Honor Judge Ocrevus Trumphour is now presiding."

Ocrevus settled into his seat. "You may all be seated." He gestured to Chinlien and Remy as the rest of the court settled back down. "Crown, you may continue when ready."

Chinlien stood up and nodded. "Thank you, Your Honor." He strolled in a slow circle from the grand jury to the judge and past the defense counsel. "Your Honor, jury, defense, my friends in the audience—this may seem unusual, but I'd like to call a witness to the stand who can personally attest to Mister Skade's cruelty. Today, you've heard from specialists and analysts on the damage done to my home and my people, but I don't think it's sinking in the type of monster we have among us."

THWOP!

The court doors opened.

Loafers stepped in.

"So I'd like to introduce one of the first-person witnesses who was able to make it back here to help me bring this killer to justice," Chinlien said.

Nashi looked over her shoulder and ever-so-slowly, hickory widened in horror and disbelief. Oh, no… It can't be… A hand went to her arm and Nashi did not have to look to know Mister Wilson was trying to ground her.

Mauve hair waved.

Skade looked over his shoulder…

…and silver entered icy-blue in rage.

Chinlien raised an arm to the aisle. "Ladies and gentlemen of the court, I present to you my dear friend and witness…"

Forest green clashed with icy-blue-silver.

"…Linus Vastia of the Lamia Scale Guild located in Margaret, Fiore."

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Fairy Adventure

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Linus looked dapper in his navy-blue suit and he knew that. Mauve hair slicked back for the occasion, he only looked away from Skade when the Ice Devil's eyes were nearly consumed in silver. Linus' eyes flicked back over his shoulder to catch Nashi's eyes and she could see the guilt in his stare.

"No…" Nashi whispered from her seat, paralyzed by her own terror. "This can't… H-He can't…"

Miss Wilson stood up and her chair skidded back. "Your Honor, you can't allow Mister Vastia to testify," she argued. "He wasn't documented on mine or Mister Broussard's witness list—!"

"Because Mister Vastia was out of town at the time we tried to depose him, yes," Chinlien agreed like he expected such a disagreement. "However, Mister Vastia arrived late last night in Margaret Town, Fiore when my co-counsel called him once more to depose him. Mister Vastia agreed to a deposition as well as being a witness to the trial. And, while, no, Mister Vastia is not on the witness list, he cannot be barred from testifying as he was considered a witness by both of us and, according to Magic criminal law, should a deposition occur prior to the trial, the witness is thus allowed to testify during the trial as long as…"—he walked back to his table and pulled a file from his briefcase—"the deposition has a physical copy. Your Honor, may I approach the bench?"

Ocrevus nodded. "You may." When Chinlien did so and presented the file, Ocrevus looked between Chinlien, Miss Wilson, Skade, and Linus before looking at the file. He skimmed it over. "Well, this is the deposition with an accurate time and date of December nineteenth at eleven-forty-three with Mister Vastia's signature as well as a witness' attestation and signature." He held up the file for the court registrar. "Please add this to evidence." As the registrar took the file and murmured their consent, Ocrevus saw the frustration on Miss Wilson's face. "Miss Wilson, to the bench, please."

Miss Wilson did and she was prepared for a battle. "Your Honor, this cannot be allowed!" she insisted. "A surprise witness?"

"A surprise witness with a completed, dated, and signed deposition by both the witness themselves and a witness of the deposition," Ocrevus countered without any emotion. "In accordance with Magic Law, so long as the witness has consented prior to the trial, they are permitted to testify." His eyes slid to Chinlien and narrowed just a little. "Even if Mister Broussard took the phrase 'prior to the trial' a bit too liberally, technically speaking, he is right. Mister Vastia may testify as Mister Broussard's witness, but you have the right to cross-examine him," he added as a reminder.

Miss Wilson glared at Chinlien. "Believe me," she snarled, "I will."

Ocrevus nodded over at the guard who escorted Linus past the barrier. "Miss Wilson, to your seat. Mister Broussard, your witness will testify." In a lower voice, he warned, "But do not think your surprises will curry favor with anyone in this room. You better have a good reason for this."

"I do, Your Honor," Chinlien assured with a self-assured grin. "Count on it."

Nashi watched with wide-eyes as Linus was sworn in as a witness. "They'll really let him testify?" she whispered, almost hysterical.

Lucy rubbed Nashi's back. "It'll be okay, Nashi," she whispered in soothe. "Linus would never say anything to put Gary in jeopardy." She offered Nashi a warm smile. "Besides, I don't think he's even met Gary's Devil under anything negative outside of childhood and, even then, Gray told me Linus still wasn't sure what he saw. It's okay."

Nashi swallowed and watched as Chinlien asked Linus his personal and professional status. But it's not okay. She doesn't know Linus was there when Skade was trying to protect me. When Skade nearly killed Linus… She gnawed on her bottom lip and allowed Býleistr to nuzzle her arm. What are we doing to do?

Stay calm.

Nashi glanced up to see Mister Wilson focused on Linus. But Kyler—

Stay calm, Kyler repeated. He can sense you're agitated which is making him agitated. Stay calm for Skade. Let your nerves slip and it's all over.

Nashi blinked and gave a nod. Swallowing back her anxiety, she turned back to see Skade kept trying to glance at her and his claws raked the bottom of his cage. She offered him a small smile and mouthed, I'm okay. It hurt seeing his eyes go back to icy-blue in relief and he paid more thorough attention to the trial. It'll be okay. I just need to believe that. I have to believe that.

Chinlien nodded at Linus. "Thank you, Mister Vastia. Now"—he pointed at Skade—"do you recognize this creature, Mister Vastia?"

Linus' gaze shifted to Skade before quickly skittering away. "Yes."

"And where do you recognize this creature from?"

"My hometown," Linus answered reluctantly.

Chinlien raised his eyebrows. "Oh, really?" he drawled. "Now why on earth would a Devil be seen in a well-populated area considering the avoid people?"

Linus tried to explain, "Margaret is a place where people and magical creatures coexist fluidly. So—"

"Mister Vastia…" A light warning in Chinlien's tone. "Why was the Devil in Margaret Town? When was he there?'

Linus shifted. "I saw the Devil in Margaret Town during our Festival of Gratitude," he responded. "He wasn't there the whole time. It was just for a day I saw him. That's it."

"I see," Chinlien nodded as he went to his briefcase to remove something. "Mister Vastia, can you explain the Devil's action during his little visit to Margaret Town? Did he seem distant and stayed away from humans? Did he act respectfully?"

Forest green shot to Skade then Nashi then downcast. "No," Linus murmured. "The Devil was…agitated."

"Agitated?" Chinlien laughed as he brought up a remote and pointed it at the Lacrima-Visions that were nailed to the back wall. "Try vengeful." He pressed a button and the LV screens came to life to footage. The footage wavered in and out, but it displayed the midst of a blizzard and the howling winds and the shouts of the soldiers. Lucy's eyes widened while Nashi sunk in her seat as the entire courtroom was filled with Skade snarling as the soldiers shouted at it and to each other the Devil had taken a hostage.

Miss Wilson's hands tightened to fists. Dammit.

Chinlien paused the footage. "Mister Vastia, correct me if I'm wrong, but Margaret Town had a severe weather alert, yes? A blizzard?"

Linus swallowed. "Yes."

"And this blizzard was not naturally caused," Chinlien remembered, "right? Can you describe to myself and the jury how this blizzard was caused?"

Linus nodded. "The Devil caused the blizzard."

"And was the Devil provoked?" Chinlien egged. "Did the Devil create the blizzard because someone attacked it first? Did you see the Devil backed into a corner before this blizzard was started—?"

"Objection!" Miss Wilson stood. "Your Honor, Mister Broussard clearly is badgering the witness with these questions!"

Ocrevus raised a hand. "Mister Broussard?"

"I assure you, Your Honor, I'm getting to my point," Chinlien promised.

"Then, make it fast," Ocrevus warned. "Allowed."

Miss Wilson sat down, growling, and Chinlien told Linus, "Answer the question, Mister Vastia. Can you describe to use the situation as to why the Devil created such a blizzard? Leave nothing out and please be honest. You are under oath."

Linus' eyes slid to connect with Nashi's when she subtly shook her head. Please, Linus, don't do this! she begged. She saw the guilt and resignation as his shoulders slumped. No!

Linus dragged his stare to meet Chinlien's head on and took a deep breath. "The Devil created the blizzard because Magic Hunters had been sent to Magnolia and they were after the Devil," he began to explain. "I'm not sure the semantics of it. But I do remember that being the reason the Devil created the blizzard was the threat of Magic Hunters."

"But didn't your country enact Magic Hunters because those Fioren Mages were possessed?"

"Again, I don't know why my country did that, considering the Hunters did more harm than good." Annoyance entered Linus' tone and broke through the stoic timbre. "But maybe that's why they sent in the Magic Hunters. Either way, the Magic Hunters were after the Devil and he didn't take being backed into a corner well."

Chinlien nodded as he took all this in, but all he was doing was putting on a show. "You sound a little bit familiar with this Devil," he commented. He pointed his remote at the Lacrima-Visions. One played news footage from a decade ago in Arcticados of a blizzard destroying a city while the other showed a shot of a newspaper article detailing the disaster and the injuries that went with it. The article was shown about speculatory theories of the small black mass that had created this calamity. "Tell me, Mister Vastia. Evidence shows you were in Arcticados at the time of this event and were hospitalized. In fact, numerous people were hospitalized."

He turned to the jury. "Jury, for those of you who don't know, I'm referring to the Polar Calamity around ten years ago," he informed. "Out of nowhere came a blizzard and explosion that took dozens of homes and even more injured. No one died, thankfully, but…" He clicked the remote to show a blurred image of what appeared to be a body with gleaming blue eyes. "From what sources say, the thing that created it was described similarly to the Devil. Mister Vastia, you were there at this accident. Can you confirm or deny that the Devil you see before you was possibly the creature that caused the Polar Calamity ten years ago?"

A bead of sweat rolled down Linus' temple as he unclenched and clenched a hand.

Miss Wilson kept calm on the inside, but Mirella was growling on the inside. Dammit. If Linus Vastia does remember and he lies, then that's it. It will cause perjury and, sure, they will strike everything he's said from the record… But this is being lacrivised. One misstep on his part and not only will the world see Skade as a monster—those families from that disaster will want him charged as a repeated offender. But how in the Hell did he have the time to gather that much evidence?

Her eyes widened.

Miss Wilson subtly turned her head to see Hendrika hunched over. Her. But how did she get this information? Talia—

I'm on in, Talia assured. I've informed Mammon of this little slip-up. He's working on it.

Miss Wilson gave the tiniest of nods and allowed her eyes to drift to see Nashi's fear-stricken face and Skade's indifferent one. We need to get out of this. But how? That was when an idea occurred to her.

Linus locked his jaw. If I tell the truth, the public will know about Gary's past. I can't allow that to happen. But if I lie… His hands clenched to fists once more. What do I do? I can't let Storm go down for this. I can't let the world know. But on the other hand—

"Objection, Your Honor!"

All eyes turned to Miss Wilson as she held up a book with a page opened up. "Your Honor, while in normal criminal law, a lawyer has a right to draw from past actions of the defendant, in Magic Criminal Law, regarding any sentient magical creatures, once three years have passed from the incident without it ever appearing in court, it's expunged and, therefore, can no longer be used as probable evidence against the defendant."

Chinlien locked his jaw. "Your Honor, my questions have relevance," he argued. "If this Devil is a repeated offender, the world needs to know. The people deserve to know the truth!"

"And you plan to prove this with what, a blurred photograph?" Miss Wilson countered. "A polar bear could have that same form, Mister Broussard. At this point, you're splitting hairs to make a point."

Chinlien wanted to argue, but Ocrevus stepped in. "Miss Wilson is right," he said calmly. "I remember the Polar Calamity well. There was a manhunt for the creature that went after the creature; however, the native people believed they had upset their gods and wanted the investigation to be dropped to ensure their gods were not even more so offended and caused a death. As the native people and their leader barred any external sources from identifying what caused the calamity, Mister Broussard, I will have to sustain." He looked over at the court recorder. "Please make sure any questions and answers pertaining to the Polar Calamity are expunged from court records. Jury, you are to disbar those last statements. They will be irrelevant to your decision regarding Mister Skade's fate."

Chinlien gritted his teeth. Damn Mages. What sort of law is that? And why the Hell wasn't I told about it? His smirk was back. No matter. I can still use my trump card. He smoothed out his jacket. "Very well, Your Honor. Can I continue questioning my witness? I have questions relevant to the case."

Ocrevus gave a curt nod. "Very well. Miss Wilson, please take your seat."

Once Miss Wilson was settled, Chinlien turned back to Linus. "Mister Vastia, I understand you described the Devil's reasoning for making the blizzard, but you still haven't painted the jury and the judge the full picture." He clicked the remote and an audio recording came on that had Nashi pale.

"Don't move, monster!" came shout. "You move and we kill you!"

An unnatural snarling voice started, "Malã'ika—"

A panicked shout. "He's captured a human girl!"

More shouts came on for demands for Skade to leave "the girl" and Nashi was forced to cup a hand over her mouth as tears came out. The final blow came was when she heard Skade roar, "Malã'ika is mine! My Female! Do not touch my Female!"

Chinlien ended the audio recording. While a few on the grand jury were unmoved, a majority of them had various degrees of disturbed on their faces. The people in the audience whispered amongst themselves as though they could not believe what they had heard. Tears fell down Nashi's face as she closed her eyes. Stop crying, you idiot, she willed herself. Stop it. But she could not stop it. She opened her eyes to see Skade's head had dipped low as though ashamed of himself. Skade, Gary… I'm so sorry…

"Mister Vastia," Chinlien drawled, too pleased with himself, "you were up close to the Devil. The soldiers here have all reported the Devil was seen with a girl and this audio recording confirms it. I could play the video recording, but before I do, Mister Vastia, tell me: do you know the girl the soldiers were referring to? I've looked up the name 'Malã'ika', but the name doesn't show up. So we will have to rely on you to identify the girl if you would?"

Linus locked his jaw, but he said nothing.

Chinlien raised an eyebrow like he expected this. "No? Okay, then allow me to bring up a photo taken from the bodycam footage—"

"Objection!" Miss Wilson shouted. "That was not listed in evidence—!"

"It was, Miss Wilson." Chinlien looked at her with a broad leer. "We had it listed just this morning—prior to the trial." Keeping his eyes deadlocked on Miss Wilson, he hit his remote. "Mister Vastia, do you recognize this girl?"

Lucy's eyes widened and her mouth fell open. What…?

Nashi felt like she was going to be sick. No… He couldn't have…

But he did. Because there on the Lacrima-Visions was a blurred image of an enraged Skade. And in his arms lie the slightly pixelated image of a nearly naked woman, pale and desolate, with her pink hair in disarray and she looked limp to the touch.

Linus bowed his head. "Yes," he grunted.

Chinlien nodded. "Well, Mister Vastia? The court is waiting to hear who that girl is that Mister Skade took as his hostage and refused to give back when soldiers demanded."

Linus lifted his head and felt pure regret when he saw Nashi trembling. I'm sorry. "That would be Nashi Dragneel from Fairy Tail," he named and could not bear to see Skade bristle nor Nashi hold back her sob. "She's the one in his arms. I know that because I saw her for myself."

The courtroom fell into murmurs of outrage and shock as eyes turned to the Angel Princess of Fairy Tail who had hunched over. Perhaps many misinterpreted this as her being afraid of the scrutiny, afraid of the talk about her, afraid of the possible actions headed her way. But that was not why she cried. That was not why she was panicked. I wanted the world to find out about us, but not like this.

Chinlien pointed directly at Nashi. "Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, that girl right there was once a hostage of the defendant," he announced. "Not only was she held captive by him, but she was denied any medical attention by the Devil even though she demanded it. And for that, I would like to call Nashi Dragneel as my next witness." He swiveled his head towards the judge. "All with relevance. Once I'm finished with Nashi Dragneel, Miss Wilson can cross-examine them both."

Ocrevus nodded. "I'll allow it." He looked at Linus. "Mister Vastia, if you would go to a seat until it is time to cross-examine you." To the crowd, he announced: "Miss Nashi Dragneel, please come to the stand to be sworn in as the next witness."

Nashi sniffled and set Býleistr to the side. Býleistr gave a silent meow as he thought to her, Princess, allow me to come with you. This 'attorney' person… He reeks of deception. He will push you and push you until you break—

You can't break something that's already broken, Býleistr. Nashi stroked his fur. I'll be okay. Sticks and stones, Býleistr.

"You've got this, baby," Lucy murmured fiercely with her eyes glaring at a smug Chinlien. "Don't let him see what you're feeling. Keep your head up."

Nashi leaned against her mother. "Thanks, Mama. I will." She got up from her seat, cleared her cheeks of tears, blocked out the countless conversation, and moved out from her seat to walk down the courtroom aisle. She felt a string of calmness alleviate the pain she felt. Thanks, Kyler. But I'll be okay.

I'm here if you need me, Kyler reminded her. You're the bravest person I know, little sister. Never forget that.

The guard opened the barrier door for Nashi and she slipped to the other side. She passed Skade's cage, but she could not resist letting her eyes drift there and they latched onto a set of eyes, one icy-blue and the other cerulean, but both looked at her in undying worry. She looked away before she felt compelled to stop and reassure them both and did not grace Chinlien with a look nor Linus as he left the stand. She was sworn in with ease, took her seat, and readied herself.

This might not have been ideal, but I can turn this around, Nashi told herself. The judge might not be too keen on sympathy, but I can hit him with facts too. I just have to remember.

Chinlien nodded and crossed his arms as he faced her. "Miss Nashi Dragneel"—he practically purred her name—"can you tell us a little bit more about yourself? Your age, your status, your Magic…? Some of the jury may not be familiar with you."

"My name is Nashi Dragneel, seventeen," Nashi introduced. "I'm the Angel Princess of the Fairy Tail Guild, an A-Class Mage."

Chinlien nodded like he was agreeing with her even though all she stated we facts. "Thank you for joining us today, Miss Dragneel; your insight will be much appreciated." He took a leisurely pace before her stand. "Miss Dragneel, can you give us a basic rundown of your personal life? Specifically, your romantic life." He lifted a hand when Miss Wilson moved to stand. "Your Honor, there's a point to make," he promised.

Ocrevus nodded. "Proceed."

Nashi cleared her throat. "I'm currently single."

"Really?" Chinlien pressed a button on his remote to show a collage of images. Most contained her and Gary together whether it was her chasing after him with murder in her eyes or them in a compromising position, but some of the other pictures showed her with speculation she was dating Orochi, Galileo, and even Ellie. "I mean I don't follow blogs or magazines because they aren't the best at being accurate." He chuckled. "I think we can all attest magazines and blogs as the real Devil here."

The courtroom murmured their own amusement.

"But enlighten us all, Miss Dragneel," Chinlien asked for. "Are you currently dating anyone?"

Nashi lifted her chin. "Not dating, but I do care a lot for one of my guildmates."

"A Mister Gary Fullbuster, am I right?" Chinlien checked. "He's the one you're mainly pictured with and vice versa. Many blogs and magazines speculated about your relationship. Congratulations on it."

"We aren't together," Nashi clarified. "Not exactly. But I care about him a lot. We're still in that 'talking' phase."

Chinlien raised his hands in surrender and laughed. "Fair enough. I'm not all caught up in the lingo that goes on with kids these days, so I'll just agree to that for now and we'll move forward."

"But"—Chinlien's laughter ran dry when Nashi stared him down with steel eyes—"I'm also in another relationship." Her eyes went up to meet the Ice Devil's. "With Skade."

Chinlien's eyes widened. "What?" He looked around to hear gasps and furious whispers echoed in the courtroom. "And you're sure about that?"

Nashi nodded. "Yes, I am." Her words came with no quiver or fear. "I care about both Gary Fullbuster and Skade."

Chinlien took this in stride. "And how did you happen to meet Mister Skade? Considering the power he displayed his winter-based, I doubt you met the Devil in Magnolia?"

"I honestly I can't say when or where we met," Nashi said with care. "I met him a long time ago, but it was only recently I discovered my feelings for him." Okay. None of these are lies. Vague truths just like what Kyler and Mirella said.

"And can you explain to the court how Gary reacted when he learned you turned to bestiality?"

At that, Nashi was affronted and Ocrevus was the one to intervene. "Mister Broussard," he warned. "Phrase your questions appropriately or don't ask at all."

Chinlien backed off from that question to say, "My apologies, Miss Dragneel. Your current and past relationships are relevant to the jury understanding my views. Mister Skade called you a word. Can you tell us what it means?"

Nashi broke into a soft smile. "In his language, it means 'Angel'."

"A reference to your Magic, I take it? Ironic, isn't it? A Devil and an Angel?"

Nashi's smile was lost as her eyes narrowed. "Yeah… I guess so." What is he playing at?

"And, surely, you can explain to the court when a being with a Curse would want to be around someone who possesses a rare divinity?" Chinlien spread his arms to the grand jury. "For those of you who aren't away, Miss Dragneel is a practitioner of Divine Soul Resonance. I believe in Fiore, it's called 'Take-Over Magic'. Her Magic allows her to take the form of an Angel and possess a pure and cleansing Magic that vanquishes any sort of darkness."

He looked at Nashi. "Am I correct in saying so?"

"You are," Nashi confirmed. "But—"

"So why would this Devil here is made of a Curse be loving towards its natural enemy? You?"

"You'd have to ask him," Nashi decided.

"And what of you, Miss Dragneel? Why would you want to be with a Devil, considering your Magic? Some would say it should be your nature to purify him."

"And they would be wrong." Nashi's tone hardened. "People with Curses and Black Magic can be just as good just like people with White Magic can be horrible people. It doesn't matter that he has a Curse. I will never want to purify him or fight him." She lifted a brow. "Are you implying that any race with Black Magic or Curse Power should be considered evil?"

Miss Wilson glanced at the grand jury to see a few nodded at her words. Good girl, Nashi. Any race can be bad or good.

Chinlien looked thoroughly chastised. "No, Miss Dragneel, not at all. I just wanted to outline your relationship with the Devil. Regarding Mister Vastia's recognition of you in Margaret Town, can you explain what happened?"

"Certainly." Nashi kept her stare straight onto Chinlien as though daring him to interrupt her. "When Magic Hunters attacked, I was already injured and low on Magic. The Devil hid me to make sure I was safe, but, in the end, we were overrun with enemies and Magic Hunters kidnapped me." She refused for her voice to break. "They injected me with Anti-Ethernano to push the Devil into breaking. They must have known the Devil's feelings about me because it worked. After that, I passed out."

Chinlien frowned and, while everyone else took this as him giving her pity, Nashi knew he was mocking her. "My condolences, Miss Dragneel, to such a horrible fate," he offered in sympathy. "If you were as injured as you claim, do you know why the Devil refused to turn you over to the soldiers trying to give you medical attention?"

"I wasn't conscious," Nashi answered.

"Yea, I understand, but do you know why? You said the Devil cares for you a great deal, but wouldn't a lover who saw their own lover was hurt make sure they were taken care of by the proper authorities?"

Nashi gritted her teeth. "The only thing I can say is maybe they threatened him. But again, I was unconscious."

Chinlien nodded. "Of course, of course. What happened when you woke up?"

"I scarcely remember Skade, but when I woke up again, I was in the care of my guildmates and Skade was gone."

"Mmm-hmm," Chinlien hummed. "Interesting… So we can all infer the Devil left you in reasonable care with these Mages, unharmed?"

Nashi nodded. "That's right."

Chinlien nodded, and Nashi hated how he pretended to be thinking. "Miss Dragneel… Can you confirm you have a scar mark on your stomach?"

Nashi blinked. How did he—? "Y-Yes," she stammered, off-kilter. "I do."

"Can you tell the court who gave you that scar on your stomach? And, from what I hear, the scar is a nice and big one."

Nashi swallowed and her eyes fell. How did he know? How could he possibly know? She pressed a hand on her stomach. "Skade gave it to me, but—!"

"Was on accident or on purpose, Miss Dragneel?"

"It was an accident!" Nashi breathed. Her eyes went up and she saw Skade has crouched low to the ground with self-hate in his eyes. "He didn't mean to! He was just a little out of control—!"

"Out of control?" Chinlien latched onto the phrase. "So he scarred you when he got angry?"

"N-N-No!" Nashi tried to negate. "It's not like that!" She saw the jury conferring with each other with spiteful glances thrown at Skade and pleaded, "Please! He would never hurt me on purpose! He was just…! He…!" I can't say his Curse possessed him. But I can't let them think he abused me. Her breathing quickened. What do I do? What do I do?

Chinlien sighed. "It's okay if you're uncomfortable speaking about it, Miss Dragneel," he said delicately as he walked back to his briefcase. "After all, we know you have defended your abusers in the past."

Nashi's breathing stopped. "What."

Chinlien pulled out a few records and leafed through. "Miss Dragneel, according to the hospital records, when you were fourteen, you were brought to the Crocus Clinic for vaginal tears and excessive bleeding…"

No… Nashi felt everything fade away as that dissonance crept back into her ear. Please… Don't make me remember…

"…and months later, you were admitted and confirmed you had an ectopic pregnancy that tragically ended in terminating the baby through salpingostomy." Chinlien looked up at Nashi with those dark eyes gleaming in satisfaction. "Can you explain to the court about this, Miss Dragneel?"

Nashi could not hear the rush of conversation or the fact that the judge called to order. Her mind rejected Kyler's string of calmness and Býleistr's own calls. The dissonance had grown louder as her throat clammed up. She was not prepared for this. She could not do this.

"Miss Dragneel."

Nashi shakily looked up at Ocrevus who looked like he wiped all emotion from his face. "Answer the question," he said softly.

Nashi looked back at Skade to see cerulean eyes peeking through in absolute horror, to see her mother under Kyler's arm with tears in her eyes, to see turquoise glinting in Kyler's eyes in worry, and her gaze swept back to a waiting Chinlien. "Y-Y-Yes," she responded, tone quiet and withdrawn. "I was r-r-raped when I was fourteen."

"And I am truly sorry I am bringing up bad memories," Chinlien said softly, but Nashi knew the truth. She felt that niggling in the back of her neck. He was a liar. "But Miss Dragneel… When the guard came to you if you wished to press charges, you denied. Why did you protect your rapist?"

"Rapists."

Chinlien leaned closer. "I'm sorry?"

"There was…" Nashi's body shook. The dissonance was eating away at her. "There was…m-m-more than…one…"

CLASH!

Eyes were drawn to Skade. Despite his injuries, he had a snarl lodged in his throat. He took to pacing in his cell, but his tail whipped back and forth and those icy-blues looked like they were ready to kill.

"You haven't answered my question, Miss Dragneel," Chinlien reminded. "Why didn't you notify the guards who your assaulters were? Why did you protect them?"

The panting. The unshakable feeling of needing to throw up. Those voices crooned with the dissonances. The grunts. The promises of pleasure. The juvenile laughter. Those fingers touching her skin and between her legs. The blood. The taste of blood. Her eyes closed as the terror she ran away from came back to haunt her. "I-I wasn't protecting them," she whispered.

"But you were, Miss Dragneel, by not turning them in," Chinlien countered. "By these records here, you underwent a psychological breakdown that warranted you a few days in the pediatric mood disorder unit due to these attackers. Yet, when asked again to name them, you refused. Even after losing your child, you refused. Can you explain that?"

Nashi rocked. Sweat lapped at her palms and her heart skittered. "I don't want to—"

"You don't want to?" Chinlien had the gall to laugh. "Miss Dragneel, you're under oath. By not answering, in accordance with Magic Criminal Law, you leave the court no choice but to agree with my sentiment you protected your abusers then and you're protecting your abuser now."

He turned to the court. "Ladies and gentlemen, Miss Dragneel's instinct to protect her abusers is nothing new. In fact, more humans involved with an other-species partner protect their partners if they display abuse. This dates back to the first record of an interspecies relationship where the human was forced to protect her Chimaera lover and psychologists today agree she would have been diagnosed with a trauma disorder. Most people don't name their abusers due to fear of lash back which is understandable. Some of these abusers can be people in power, a parent, or otherwise. But Miss Dragneel denied that her assaulters were any of these people and her guild even offered protection. But she refused."

Chinlien set down the files. "And even now, even knowing she has protection against her abuser now, she still refuses to acknowledge him as one before you, the people of this court. If she is still terrified of him even now, what does this say about the Devil before you?" He ticked off a finger. "That he has no boundaries in how far he will instill his own manipulation and fear into others, even his own alleged lover."

"Stop," Nashi whispered as her body shook. "Please stop…" Chinlien's words and Miss Wilson's objections muffled into a stretching echo. Sweat coated her forehead. I can't… I can't… Blearily, her eyes found Skade and she barely recognized he was frothing at the mouth and did not take kindly to the guards who had raised their purity spears to keep him at bay. But when he raised his eyes to connect with hers—

"Baby"—that remembered uncomfortable shove between her legs made her jerk—"you feel so good…!"

Cerulean filled with dark satisfaction.

The dissonance consumed her.

Everyone stopped when Nashi clattered onto the floor and threw up.

SLAM!

RAAAAAAAAAAAA…!

More eyes settled on Skade as he slammed his cage like an angered bull. His chains rattled and he snapped his teeth when those purity spearheads shocked him and burned, but he did not care. He threw his weight against the cage with his eyes centered on Nashi. He cared little for the humans assisting her. All he could look at was her sick form.

"Malã'ika!" Skade howled.

Skade, stop it! Gary demanded, but even he could not help his own despair. You aren't helping! We need to keep calm!

Malã'ika has been hurt! Skade seethed. Humans hurt her. With Nashi scurried out of the court, Skade's murderous gaze struck Chinlien. Human hurt her. And he slammed against the cage again.

Ocrevus slammed down his gavel since the court erupted into chaos. "Order in the court!" he snapped. "Order! I said, 'order'…!"

Miss Wilson watched as the court fell apart. She watched as Skade was burned over and over with purity Magic until a guard could put on his muzzle. She watched as Mister Wilson got up and left the courtroom in a hurry with Lucy. She watched as Hendrika hung her head like she was ashamed. She watched as Chinlien offered her a smirk.

"This isn't over," Miss Wilson hissed.

Chinlien cocked his head. "You're right on that, Miss Wilson." His smirk widened. "This isn't over by a long shot."

°•°•°•°

The room Nashi had been given was a small conference room with a styrofoam cup of water and a little trashcan. It obviously was used for smaller deliberations amongst courtroom personal and even came with two LVs strapped to the wall and a whiteboard that had been whipped clean. Mister Wilson, Lucy, and Býleistr were the only ones allowed in the room and had made it clear they would not be rejoining the trial for quite some time. Lucy was at Nashi's side, chairs side by side, with Býleistr sitting on the table and his tail tip flicking in agitation.

"I'm so sorry," Mister Wilson whispered as he knelt before Nashi and put a hand on her cheek, hat off. "Forgive me."

Nashi let out a shuttered breath as her eyes closed. "Do it," she begged in a rasp. "Please, I can't… I can't stop thinking about it."

Lucy furrowed her brow. "Do what, baby?"

"I understand." Mister Wilson sucked in a deep breath and turquoise pulsed beneath his palm and skittered onto Nashi's cheek. In mere moments, her body relaxed and she rested against her mother. "You will have good dreams, little sister. Sleep well."

Lucy held back all the questions and assumptions as she studied Mister Wilson and the way he looked at Nashi and only drew one conclusion. "You're not human. And you know she isn't either."

Mister Wilson withdrew himself from Nashi to rise to his feet. "Býleistr?"

Býleistr nodded. With a growl, he created a Stargate and disappeared through it.

Mister Wilson looked at Lucy and took in her expression when he shed transformation. His height remained the same and so did his suit, but those turquoise locks, lashes, brows, and eyes came back full-force. "I am not human, no," he agreed. "My name is Kyler, an Enoch. Which means I'm half-Angel."

"An Enoch…" Lucy breathed. "If you're Kyler—" Everything came together. "You're the lawyer Mirella recommended. That's why Nashi was so insistent on seeing you. But why didn't she tell me?"

"The less you knew, the better," Kyler reasoned as he took a seat. "But my sincerest apologies, Star Priestess, for the deception."

Lucy nodded. "Just 'Lucy' is fine, and it's okay," she assured. "Muta and Mirella explained as much as they could, but I understand it was you alongside Býleistr who brought my daughter back to me."

"I did nothing, really," Kyler humbly countered. "I only gave her my Angel blood. The rest she did on her own by her own will." His eyes softened as he studied Nashi. "And she will flourish beautifully."

"She will," Lucy agreed with a loving look at her daughter. "I have so many questions for her, but until she wakes up, Kyler… May I ask you a question?"

"Of course."

"By giving her your blood, she's gained more power," Lucy noticed. "That's why she healed faster than a normal Mage when she came home with multiple bullets in her body, yes?"

Kyler nodded. "Yes, that's correct."

"Then tell me." Lucy lifted her chin. "What are your intentions with Nashi? How did you know her body would even except Angel blood when she's half-Demon?"

"It was a risk," Kyler confessed, "but it was worth the high reward. With her harboring the soul of a Seraph, I knew her Demon genes were suppressed. My mother was a Galgalim or an Ophan Agent. The blood is a higher concentration of divinity and capable of much. Even though your daughter is bonded to a Guardian and a Seraph, I knew transfusing Ophan blood might overwhelm her. But I also knew, even if she claimed she accepted dead, she wanted to live to save Skade and Gary by whatever means. Be a Demon, a human, or an Angel."

Lucy nodded. "And what will happen to her now?" she had to know. "I've read books about blood transfusions only with Vampires, but they've been extinct on Earth Land since several centuries ago. With Vampires, it was said they could turn others into Vampires through a blood transfusion and gave their victim some sort of blood disease or they had human partners and made Dhampirs. But in that time, Vampires created others to make their own brood and kept it more as a harem than anything. You called Nashi your little sister. So does that mean…?"

"Angels can't 'turn' others into Angels," Kyler clarified. "Unlike Vampires, our blood isn't like a permanent disease that changes the recipient and the recipient doesn't need to feed on any sort of force of some kind. In fact, we can't give blood because it would normally kill any living thing because of how filled with divinity it is. Nashi was able because she possessed the correct properties of an Agent. And should she lose blood again, I will be there for her to give her more of my blood, but it will help if one of your children donate blood to her as well."

"Oh? And why is that?"

"While your daughter can handle an obscure amount of purity, it would be wise to make sure she isn't overflowing with it," Kyler said in fair warning. "Too much purity can corrupt a person who wasn't born into it. It's what separates an Agent from a person who can practice Agent ideology, physiology, and powers." He shook his head. "But I have no intention of taking Nashi as a lover if that's your concern. To me, I love her like I would a sibling. And, in time, I will teach her the abilities she's gained and how to perfect them."

"We'd appreciate that, thank you," Lucy murmured. "We have a few Take-Over Mages, but it's difficult for Nashi to relate to them. We've tried extensively to find Mages who could help her, but we only know one and even she wasn't able to help Nashi. She had—"

"Angel Magic." Kyler smiled at the surprise on Lucy's face. "Yes. While on Earth Land, I kept an eye on those with celestial properties or divinity. Her Angel Magic is impressive on Earth Land standards, but not on the standards of an actual Agent." He nodded to Nashi. "The summoned Angels that Mage brings is nothing in comparison to Nashi's powers nor the souls she's garnered."

"I-I see." Lucy sounded both perturbed and awed. "Her Magic really is rare."

Kyler agreed to that. "I know. Once she is better, I will train her the same way I was trained. But she has shown considerable prowess with the raw talent she possesses." He analyzed Lucy's face as he said, "By which I mean… She was powerful enough to give the Devil the name Skade and establish a link with him."

Lucy's eyes widened. "What?" She looked at Nashi in disbelief. "But… How…?"

"Did you not do the same with King Natsu?"

Lucy whirled back to look at Kyler. "How…?" She sighed. "Yes," she confessed. "When I rewrote the book of END, I… But I didn't establish any sort of link to him. His ties to Zeref were severed, sure, but I rewrote Natsu's ties to make him his own person with his own freedoms and own choices."

"And awesome power like that seems to have been passed down to your children," Kyler acknowledged. "In both Skade's human form and Gary's own, physical proof is provided of Nashi's tie to them. Of course, being able to enter and exit that link will take time. But to see such a young person accomplish such a feat is impressive. You should be proud she did it. I'm sure both Skade and Gary are."

Lucy did not know what to say. Nashi… We have so much to talk about when you wake up.

"Now I have a question for you, Misses Dragneel."

"Lucy," she automatically corrected. "What is it?"

Kyler sat forward. "I have to know as Nashi's Maker, future Namer, and her brother-in-wings…" Turquoise lit in silent fury and his aura expanded to outline his body. An Angel alit with the sin of wrath. "Who took my sister's wings?"

Luna laid flat on her back, clad in sweat and burning out anger. The sun was still high, but she felt like days had passed with how her muscles burned and the faint bruises she had accumulated. "I'm done," she groaned. "I'm sore and sweaty and I just want to shower and go to bed."

Gale squatted next to her. He had broken a sweat but only barely. "I'd push you more, but for now, we'll take a break." He extended a hand.

This time, Luna took it and gasped when Gale rose and pulled her with him without flinching. She held tight to him and heated ruby burned into her gaze, but she let him go like he was on fire. "Yeah, sure. A-A-A break sounds good." She made a beeline for the deck and went inside to the kitchen, swiping her water as she did so. She knew her mother had prepared break mini-snacks for her and Gale and took them out of the fridge, but she tensed when she heard Gale come in after her.

"Um… Snack?" Luna set the plate on the island. "Mama made them for us, so, you know, help yourself." Saving herself from further talking, she guzzled down water.

Gale sat at the island, but he kept his gaze on her. "Good work today," he rumbled. "You're still pretty rocky, but you're nowhere as weak as you were months ago. So that's a start."

Luna clenched her water bottle and finished her mouthful. "Was that supposed to be a compliment?"

"Yeah." Gale munched on his share of snacks. "It was. Doesn't matter that you're a dancer or a gymnast. You wouldn't have been able to last as long as you did months ago as you did today. So good job."

Luna huffed and rolled her eyes. "Thanks, I guess." She sat on the stool to the island. "On a real note, please tell me not every day is going to be like that?"

Gale cackled. "Nah, nah, Blondie. Intense days like this are only twice a week, Monday and Wednesday. Then Tuesday and Thursdays will be more about the why behind what you do, more focus on flexibility, meditation, and sure, we'll do some technical work. Fridays and Saturdays are when we'll focus mainly on endurance and do a few light sparring sessions. Your dad said he'd check in on Saturdays. We'll make sure we prep your diet that day too. And Sunday is your rest day."

Luna's jaw had dropped and her head was whirling with this new scheduling information. "Wh-Wh-What!" she spluttered. Shaking her head viciously like she was trying to wake herself, she complained, "I'm training on weekends too? But that's not fair! I make plans on Fridays and Saturdays for fun stuff! And-And what about school work, huh? My friends and my—!" She flailed around for the right wording. "My other special friend! I have a life and friends and—!"

"And"—Gale put a hand on Luna's mouth to quiet her—"you'll just have to figure out what the rest of us who are serious about living figure out: time management." He let her go to pop in some grapes.

Luna scowled. "This isn't fair—!"

"You said that, principessa." Gale took another mouthful. "Life isn't fair. Try again."

Luna stamped her foot and growled. "Papa never made me train on the weekends—!"

"Because he was being nice to his sweet little daughter," Gale reasoned in a mocking coo. "I'm not as nice, Blondie, nor will I ever be. You'll train when I say you train. But, hey, to honor your words, you beat me at a match? You get the day off, no questions asked."

Luna perked. "Seriously?"

"Yeah." Gale grabbed a celery stick and took a bite. "But I'm not too worried about that."

She frowned, affronted. "Well, why not?"

"Because"—he took a swig of his water as he looked at her up and down—"you're still too weak. Hell, I bet you could dead ass try and kick me in the balls and I still wouldn't feel a thing."

Luna gritted her teeth. "You're such a—!"

"What, Blondie?" Gale rose to his full height to stand before her with that irritating grin of his. "An asshole? A douche? A jerk? Nah, Blondie, tell me what I really am." He ducked his head for their eyes to clash. Cocky ruby and angered chocolate. "I quite like your cute little insults. So tame. Just like a princess."

"Shut up!" Luna snapped.

"Or what?" Gale challenged. "What are you going to do to me?"

Luna felt something stir inside her and her hand twitched. "I'm warning you, Gale, cut it out!"

Gale raised an eyebrow. "Make me, principessa."

That stir fanned itself into a flame as white shrouded Luna's guild mark hand and she shoved Gale. "Stop it!"

The impact alone might not have moved Gale, but with Magic combined, Gale staggered back against the island, but…

Chocolate widened.

Black scales had covered Gale's chest like black diamonds.

Scales? He can…make scales?

Gale flashed his fangs as he recovered and lunched for her. Luna had no time to react when Gale had thrown her down to the ground on all-fours. She bucked and struggled and Gale feigned letting her up only to launch again and put her on her back, one hand capturing her wrists while her legs were pinned down. Luna gritted her teeth and tried to move, but it proved pointless

"Get off me!" Luna snapped. "Let me go!"

"You really think demanding that to an enemy will make them let you go?"

Luna's eyes snapped up to Gale—

—and she was taken back at the haunted look in his eyes.

"I was where you were," Gale told her in a dead tone. "Helpless, exposed, vulnerable. I asked for the same mercy you did. But Bluenote wasn't as kind."

Luna's eyes fell down to the scar that mauled part of Gale's abdomen. It was lighter than his skin tone by a few degrees and noticeable to the naked eye. Anyone who saw it could tell the wound had been thrice as ugly and messy. But anyone could also tell there was one magnificent and daunting story behind the scar. Gale…

Gale let her go as he got up and turned away from her. Luna slowly got back to her feet and shamed stung her. "Gale, I… I'm sorry…"

"You have to understand… It's not as simple as a fair fight," Gale said without looking at her. "Not anymore. The world is changing and evolving. I know for sure when Bluenote had me where he wanted me, he was trying to get me to use Dragon Slayer Magic. I don't know why since I wasn't a Dragon Slayer. But he must have had intel I would become one then. He didn't fight fair. He tormented my body until I couldn't fight anymore."

Luna's eyes watered. Oh goodness…

"You might think wizardry has so many Mages, but in reality, our population is dwindling, even if there are millions of us left. Because Black Mages and Spiritless are hunting us down and killing us without mercy." No nuances and niceties in Gale's tone. "We have to push ourselves past our limits to survive—you especially. Having a power that can slaughter Demons, that can heal to your extent, that adapts to your situation—it's rare, almost unheard of."

His hands tightened to fists. "It's the reason Esmeralda Strauss with her Answer Magic listed her Magic as a regular Take-Over Mage and retired from Mage life. It's the reason Liberty is carefully watched for her Luck Magic. Imagining what people could do with that power if it got to the wrong hands… And you… You can see into the future. You really think asking for mercy will stop them from taking you and tormenting you until you gave in to their demands?"

Luna sniffed. "I… I'm sorry…" she whispered. "I just… I…" She bowed her head and shut her eyes. "I'm sorry." He's right. People torment Mages for their power. The Magic Hunters tried to use Nashi to get to Gary. I'm stupid to think me crying for help would work. I'm so stupid.

A hand landed on her head.

"It's okay."

Luna's eyes opened and looked up to see Gale smiling wearily at her. "Gale?"

"I didn't mean to scare you," Gale murmured with apology couching his words. "You didn't know. Your parents have been shielding you from the realities of it all."

"No… They haven't." Luna rubbed her arm. "I'm the one who isn't seeing reality clearly. I guess I've just been pretending I can still live a normal life, but that's not true. I've jumped through time. I've fought Demons. We were there in Bellum. I know it's dangerous for me—for all of us. I guess I really was living in rose-colored lenses like you said, huh?"

Gale sighed. "Maybe a little," he supposed, "but it's not like you had time to really process everything. Hell, I still process I'm a Dragon Slayer on the daily. I never thought I'd be a Dragon Slayer and now I have a Dragon Mom and all this really cool power, but I have to hide it or it's lights out for me by some Black Mage wanting to get their hands on Sycaña's Lacrima. It's okay to take the time to process. But don't let the things you do that bring you joy become distractions from processing and training."

Luna gave him a small smile. "Which means I can still rope you into watching Magia as long as it doesn't become a distraction?"

Gale made a face as Luna giggled. "You're pushing your luck, Blondie-girl." But a smile lit up his face as he took in her laughter. She can still smile and laugh like it's nothing. Just like that idiot brought of hers. I never want her to lose that sort of light in her life. I'll do what it takes so she can still have that. So she can live instead of survive. Which reminds me… His hand moved from her hand to her cheek and thumbed it. "Hey, listen. Your dad's going to be training you tomorrow."

"Okay," Luna accepted. "Where will you be?"

Gale sighed and rubbed the nape of his neck. "I've got some stuff I gotta take care of, so I won't be here for your birthday."

"Oh." That made her frown, and the hurt she felt made her uncomfortable. "Everything okay?"

"Yeah." Gale prodded Luna's frown. "I'm sorry I'm missing your birthday, but I promise I'll call. And I'll be here to give you your Christmas Eve present." He grinned and winked at her. "So don't miss me too much, got it?"

"Yeah, right," Luna snickered. "More like I'll be partying without you hovering over me."

Gale let her go with an amused shake of his head. "Don't party too hard, Blondie. I'll be back to whip you into shape." He grabbed his water bottle. "C'mon. Let's stretch you out and get back to work."

Luna watched as Gale took a few more gulps of water as he left. "Right, sure." She grabbed her own bottle and followed after Gale and took in his appearance. Y'know… Has Gale…always been so tall?

Mary Jane had to admit she did not feel so confident being in the OB/GYN office at the Crocus Clinic and she felt a little embarrassed her mother was with her. But she kept thumbing her Compact to keep calm while her mother continued to knight. The waiting room was shared with a few other specialties, but Mary Jane and Mira had been directed to the OB/GYN part of the office and Mary Jane glanced around to see women of all ages and a few men were sitting in the waiting room, some her age or younger, some her mother's age or older. She fidgeted when she saw a pregnant teenaged girl and her parents.

"Mom, did we really have to do this?" Mary Jane whispered. "I mean you told me everything I needed to know…"

Mira did not bat an eye. "This is to keep you safe," she reminded. "I already let the doctor know you want an IUD, but she'll still talk to you about all your options and about practicing safe sex—"

"Mom!" Mary Jane blushed. "I'm not…! I-I-I mean I don't want…!"

Mira did have pity on her daughter and rubbed Mary Jane's head. "I know you aren't ready," she murmured in soothe. "It makes me happy to hear you want to wait, but I was your age once upon a time. Some things might happen by accident or other means. I want you safe and protected."

Mary Jane bit her lip and nodded. "Does Daddy know?"

"He does."

Mary Jane winced. "Is that why he wasn't happy with me today?"

Mira shook her head. "No, sweetie. He was more unhappy you and Peter probably had a fun adventure of your own." She tittered when Mary Jane spluttered and reddened. "He understands your body is your choice. Whether your father is happy about you getting birth control of not, that's on him. This is about you and your safety." She brushed back Mary Jane's hair. "If you don't feel comfortable—"

"N-No!" Mary Jane winced again. "I mean…! I…want to be safe. I'm not ready for sex, but…!" She gripped her Compact. "I just…! I, um, just want to be safe and ready and everything too…"

Mira smiled. "Good. I'm glad." She went back to knitting. "I know I'm your mom and it's weird to tell your mom things, but I hope you can at least talk to Veronika if you have any questions or concerns. I don't want you to go through any of this alone, Mary Jane. You have all the support and help you need—if you so choose to use it."

Cerulean-scarlet shimmer. Mom…

A nurse came out. "Miss Mary Jane Dreyar?"

Mary Jane stood up and hesitated. She looked back at her mother. "Are you coming with me?"

Mira paused in her knitting. "Would you like me to? I don't have to be in there with you if it makes you uncomfortable."

"Are you sure?" Mary Jane asked, still uneasy.

Mira nodded. "You can always ask if I can be sent in after everything is done. It's okay, Mary Jane," she assured. "The choice is yours."

Mary Jane nodded back. "Thanks, Mom," she whispered.

"Of course, sweetie. Go on now."

Mary Jane made her way over to the nurse and after pleasantries, weight and height taking, and being roomed and asked a series of basic questions, Mary Jane was left alone. The office space was enough for two chairs, a desk, a dresser full of medical supplies, and a hospital examination table. Mary Jane allowed her eyes to skim over the posters when a text came in on her Compact.

⌜MESSAGES

Mine

Well my mom definitely wants to meet you ⌟

⌜MESSAGES

Mine

Let me know a good day for you if you're comfortable ⌟

Mary Jane smiled and wanted to text back when a knock came to the door and it opened. A springy thing came in with red hair that could part a crowd. She beamed at Mary Jane as she closed the door and, somehow, her mere presence set aside Mary Jane's own anxiety. "Hi, Mary Jane," the woman said. "I'm a fourth-year OB/GYN resident. My name is Hotaru Matey and it's a pleasure to meet you!"

"Nice to meet you too!" Mary Jane greeted as she shook Hotaru's hand.

Hotaru took a seat at the desk and signed into the DAL. She clicked around and explained, "I'm just pulling up your medical records and the questions you answered. Can you give me your full name and date of birth?"

"My name is Mary Jane Dreyar. My birthday is on May sixth."

"Good, good. And I see you identify as a woman and you use 'she' and 'her' as your pronouns, is that correct? And sexual orientation is heterosexual?"

Mary Jane ducked her head. "Mmm-hmm."

"Good, good. Now, if it's okay with you, I have some questions I'd like to ask you and I ask you to be one-hundred-percent honest with me. If you feel embarrassed, that's okay. You don't have to answer. This is all for your benefit, okay?"

Mary Jane swallowed and nodded. "O-Okay."

"Awesome! So I see you're not a smoker or a drinker," Hotaru read off the records, "and nothing like any pre-existing chronic conditions or anything like that, so we're still a-okay. But, Mary Jane, may I ask you what brought you to me today?"

"Well…" Mary Jane shuffled her feet. "I want to get on birth control."

Hotaru nodded. "And this is your decision, yes? No one is coercing you to get on birth control?"

That threw Mary Jane for a loop. "What? Why would anyone do that?"

"I'll take that as a 'no'." As Hotaru typed, she explained, "There are some cases where girls are forced to come here by a lover to get on birth control for the benefit of their partner or another party, not a choice they want to make on their own. I just wanted to be sure you want to get on birth control for you and not for anyone else."

"Oh." That made sense. "Okay. But no, I want to do this. No one else is making me."

Hotaru turned back to Mary Jane with her beam. "Good! Now, are you currently in a relationship?" When Mary Jane broke into a shy smile, Hotaru giggled. "Oh, so you are… And who is the lucky person?"

"His name is Peter," Mary Jane answered and she felt her heart flutter. "He's amazing."

"Well, of course he is because you are amazing and you shouldn't settle for anyone less amazing than yourself," Hotaru complimented. "What's Peter like? Besides amazing, of course. Do your parents like him? And how long have you been together?"

"He's sweet and funny and really thoughtful," Mary Jane described. "He's so wonderful. My mom really likes him and my dad… Well, he's getting there. We met in October, but we're officially in a relationship as of this past weekend."

Hotaru gave a small round of applause. "Oh, well then, congratulations are in order! That's good for you two! I hope you two have a happy and healthy relationship!"

Mary Jane ducked her head as Hotaru typed into her DAL. "Thank you," murmured Mary Jane.

"Now, here comes the fun questions," Hotaru warned good-humoredly. "Have you and Peter gotten intimate? Have you been intimate with anyone? So that would mean anything past kissing on the cheek. Any touching in genitalia or any thoughts of it or something past it? Kissing down there?"

Mary Jane blinked rapidly and knew she was as red as a tomato, but she pushed herself to answer with the truth. "We've only kissed on the lips and stuff. We've…s-s-s-sort of touched each other, but it wasn't anything, y'know…"—she gestured to her crotch—"there, or anything. But I did think about it. And I know Peter thought about it. But we both aren't ready for sex."

"And that's okay," Hotaru assured as she typed. "It's also okay to have sexual thoughts and even dreams and urges and to want to be intimate. All of that is perfectly normal, but it's normal to not have any of those thoughts whatsoever." She clicked on something. "Let's see here… Ah, so yes, my nurse did say you were recently hospitalized and they did take urine and blood samples. Everything came back negative, which is a very good thing, so congratulations on that. And I see you did consent to a pelvic exam while hospitalized and everything looked good. How have your periods been looking?"

"Um, f-f-fine?" Mary Jane did not expect such a question and it showed. "Regular, I guess. My mom has me track my cycle in on Com."

"Do you know when your last period was?"

"Two weeks ago. My periods are normally at the end of the months."

"Good, good. And how long are they normally for?"

"Three or four days."

"And have you been noticing anything different with your body? Any abnormal discharge or smells…?"

Mary Jane shook her head. "No. Nothing like that."

"Perfect!" Hotaru turned to Mary Jane. "Now, your mother explained to me, regarding birth control, you wanted to do the IUD. But I just want to explain to you all your options and their pros and cons, if that's okay?" Her smile widened when Mary Jane consented with a nod. "Wonderful!" She pushed herself in her wheelie chair to bring out a few pamphlets from the drawers as well as a laminated chart and pushed herself back to Mary Jane. "So, I'll leave the pamphlets on my desk and give you the one that goes with the birth control form you choose." She gestured with the chart. "This is a chart of all the methods of birth control specifically for Mages."

Mary Jane's brow furrowed. "Why for Mages?"

"Research in wizards show your hormones are interwoven with the Magic you carry," Hotaru explained. "It's more of a recent discovery in the field a decade ago, but more and more accurate studies come back with the same results. For female wizards, you might notice on your period, your Magic might intensify or weaken, similar to Magic Season." Mary Jane nodded unsurely and Hotaru explained: "That's a result of your hormones and Magic being linked. It's why pregnant Mages are closely monitored under high-risk and are more often-bedridden and why female Mages are prone more to headaches and migraines along with pelvic pain and messier periods. The options I'm presenting to you today have all been approved effectively and tested clinically and safely for female wizards."

"I see." Mary Jane was colored impressed. "So what are all the options?"

"So 'The Pill' is the most recognizable," Hotaru explained as she tapped as the prescription bottle. "Unlike Spiritless birth control pills, there are three different types of pills for female wizards. A decade ago, female wizards were taking a Magic Potion, but thankfully, Potioneers were able to compact their recipe into pills to make it more accessible to those who did not live near a Potioneer. Typical effectiveness is around ninety-percent when used correctly. So it is effective, but there is still a risk of pregnancy. Birth control pills take around a month for them to be effective. You'd take the pill every twenty-four-hours for it to be the most effective. Any questions on the pill?"

Mary Jane shook her head. "No, I don't think so."

"Just let me know if you need me to slow down or if you have a question," Hotaru told her. She tapped the next image which is a syringe. "Now, there is known as 'The Shot'. You'd come into the office every three months for us to inject the serum. This does have more side effects than the typical birth control, I will admit. You might notice some haziness with Magic control and it takes some Mages around two weeks on average for their hormones and Magic to balance out. Even with the shot, I'd most likely prescribe you both Magic and mood stabilizers to help your body adjust."

"Would I take those every day?"

"Yes, ma'am, you'd take the stabilizers every day, every twenty-four hours just like the pill, yes." Hotaru saw Mary Jane's face and laughed. "I know, I know, I can already tell this isn't even an option in your mind but let me just make sure you know all the facts. Even with stabilizers, the shot is ninety-nine percent effective. So just something to consider." She pointed at the IUD. "So this is the option I'm told you did want: the IUD. IUDs for Mages still release the progestin hormone, but it also releases the magica hormone slowly every day into your body to prevent pregnancy and any magical complications.

"There are three types of IUDs we have for female wizards. The first one is named 'Venus'. She lasts for three years and we recommend this two adult wizards. The second one is 'Neptune' and she lasts for five years. We recommend the age range for this to be seventeen and up. The IUD that I thought would be appropriate for you is our 'Lunar' IUD which lasts for ten years."

Mary Jane's eyebrows shot up. "Ten years?"

Hotaru nodded. "Mmm-hmm. We normally give Lunar to our teenage patients. Lunar, however, does have its risks. Lunar has an Anti-Magic base to it, nothing too strong or detrimental. But it does help create a harmful environment to the sperm and wards off any sort of fertility spell or fertility-enchanted item," she explained. "With all the IUDs, they still come with their own side effects like back pain, heavier bleeding on your period, migraines, depression, tenderness, abdomen and pelvic pain, and possible cysts. But they are ninety-nine-point-nine percent effective in preventing pregnancy—the most effective birth control for female wizards."

Mary Jane nodded. "Can I still have the Lunar IUD?"

Hotaru smiled. "Yes, of course!" She traded her chart for a pamphlet and handed it to Mary Jane. "I just wanted to run you through your options. You also have the option of condoms. Your file says your Magic is Darkness Magic and Lightning Magic, so on your end, you have nothing to worry about. However, if your partner is a Fire Magic, Water Mage, or Ice Magic, I'd recommend them using Magic-enhanced condoms to prevent them from accidentally breaking it."

"That happens?" Mary Jane gasped.

Hotaru chuckled and nodded. "It sounds ridiculous, I know, but it does happen. Some people might have airtight control on their Magic during the day, but when they get passionate with their lover, their Magic tends to act out which is normal. There are medications to help stabilize Magic when you're aroused." She clapped her hands. "And as always, while I do not recommend it, there is the pull-out method for sex to prevent pregnancy, but again, I don't recommend it. Even pre-cum or one drop of semen in your vagina can cause pregnancy. And I do promote abstinence as the one-hundred-percent effective way to prevent pregnancy."

"What about the tube-tying thing?" Mary Jane wondered.

"There are surgical birth control methods," Hotaru said carefully. "Tubal litigation is one you can apply for at seventeen when you're an adult. Fiore has it set where you do not need a witness or partner's permission for tubal litigation. The only reason I'd recommend waiting on tubal litigation and delay until you're in your upper twenties to thirties is that some people do want children and change their mind and others are the opposite. There is a microscopic chance you can get pregnant with your tubes tied, but it's highly unlikely. I have performed the surgery on seventeen-year-olds, but the process is permanent. So think long and hard before you apply for tubal litigation."

Mary Jane nodded. "I will. I promise." She swallowed. "My mom told me this office does same-day IUD insertion?"

"We do," Hotaru confirmed. "So what we'll do is make sure you understand everything there is about the Lunar IUD, I'll write the prescription, and then, in an hour, we'll do the insertion. In that hour, I recommend you take pain killer medications and do some fasting. If you feel the need to shower and shave, you can, but it's not necessary. Mama can be in the office or it can be just you. We will also have you do the fun task of peeing in a cup for us just for us to do one last check and make sure everything is good. Then, you'll come back in, put your legs on the stirrups, and we'll put in the Lunar IUD."

Mary Jane flushed as a thought occurred to her. "I've never… Outside of my tampons, I've never…"

Hotaru softened. "I understand. We'll make sure the insertion is as painless as possible. You'll have a blanket over you as well. And Mama can be in the room if that helps you get more comfortable. I'll be honest and say the sensation is weird and a little pinching. You might feel some cramping or have some spotting afterward. I'd definitely recommend getting some sleep with a heating pad afterward. We'll lubricate to make sure everything goes as cleanly as possible. But the decision is yours, okay? We can always do pills—"

"No thank you," Mary Jane interjected quickly. "I want the IUD, please."

Hotaru conceded with ease. "All right. Well, let's go through everything with the Lunar IUD one more time, we'll sign some papers, and I'll write that prescription, okay?" She got up. "Give me one moment just to consult with my supervisor. I'll come back with the paperwork and she'll come in just to meet you, talk to you for a bit, and that will be that. Should I send a nurse to get mom?"

Mary Jane shook her head. "No, thank you."

"All righty. Then, I'll be right back."

When the door closed, Mary Jane sank in her seat and let out a deep breath. That was so awkward! But…it was really insightful. She was really nice and kind. She turned her attention to her Compact to text Peter back.

« Any time after Christmas should be good. But I might be feeling a little under the weather »

She was about to type her next message to explain when Peter responded:

« Are you sick? What's wrong? Do you need me to bring you some soup? Any medications? »

Mary Jane smiled.

« No, no, nothing like that »

It took Peter a few seconds until he replied:

« Is it that time of the month? »

Mary Jane let out a laugh.

« Nothing like that either. I'm just getting in my IUD and… »

« Oh, one of my cousins did that. She likes her IUD, but she definitely was feeling it for a few days after she got it »

« Offer still stands. Want me to bring you anything to help with the pain? »

Mary Jane thought on that then she replied:

« I mean cuddling with you would help, but I don't think we could do that considering my parents »

« Well… »

« I mean we could…»

« What do you mean? »

« I know there's that ledge where Magnolia's lighthouse is. Bleu told me it's a popular spot for couples (do NOT repeat that to Luna, BTW). We could go there? »

« As cheesy as it sounds, my cars back seats fold down and NJ, Nolan, and I would throw down pillows and blankets when we did the drive-in theaters on top the seats and my trunk space »

« what do you say? Sounds like a date? »

Mary Jane beamed.

« Sounds like a date as I don't have to look fancy »

« Perish the thought, Sweets. PJs will look cute on you all the same »

Mary Jane laughed to herself and sent Peter a kissy sticker. Fondly, her eyes trailed the knitted bracelet her mother had made her and let her fingers run over the ridges of the wool. He really is amazing. Her hand came up to finger her acorn button charm. Igneel… I wish you could have seen how amazing Peter really is. I think you two would have been friends. And if you approved of him as my boyfriend, it would have meant the world to me.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

And then…

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Mira and Mary Jane came home with Mary Jane wincing just a tad as they climbed up the steps and Mira unlocked the door. As Mary Jane stepped in, Laxus called from afar: "Hey, how'd it go?"

"Fine, Daddy!" Mary Jane called as she lost her boots and jacket. "I'm just sore!"

Laxus came down the hallway and it was odd yet endearing to see the Thunder God of Fairy Tail with reading glasses (even if Mira gently teased him of his age). He kissed Mira first, but he looked at Mary Jane in concern. "Why don't you take a nap?" he suggested. "I found your mom's heating pad if you want that."

Mary Jane perked and smiled. "Thanks, Daddy!" She contemplated and hesitantly asked, "Would it be okay if Peter came over later today?"

Laxus, irked, muttered, "Didn't you just see him all weekend? And took your time coming home with him today?"

Mary Jane blushed and Mira stepped in to say, "Oh, Laxus, stop being so grumpy." She effectively ignored her husband when he grumbled he was not being grumpy to say to Mary Jane, "Why don't you invite Peter for dinner and dessert? I know meeting the whole family was a lot, but it'd be good for Laxus and myself to sit down with him. Right, Laxus?"

Laxus' eyebrow twitching when that pretty smile Mira gave him was more of a threat. "Right," he grunted. "Invite the kid to dinner, Butterfly."

"Thanks, Daddy!"

Laxus smiled when Mary Jane hugged him and he hugged her back. "Not a problem, Butterfly. Do you need me to carry you to your room?"

Mary Jane pouted. "I'm not a little girl, Daddy."

Laxus chuckled. "I know. But I also know going up the stairs right now might hurt you a lot more than just walking."

Mary Jane ducked her head sheepishly. "Then, yes, please."

As Laxus scooped up his daughter, Mira decided, "I'll bring you some more pain killers and make you your favorites: pelmeni and shchi."

Mary Jane brightened as Laxus carried her up the steps. "You're the best, Mom, thank you!"

Laxus carried Mary Jane back to her room and settled her on the bed before quickly retrieving the Lacrima Heating Pad that used Thermal Magic embedded to help relax muscles and would cool down when the recipient was too hot. Mary Jane let out a sigh of relief when she pressed the heating pad onto her abdomen. "Thanks, Daddy."

"Sure, Butterfly." Laxus hesitated. "So you really like this boy, right?"

"I really do." Mary Jane peeked up at him with those big cerulean-scarlet eyes. "It'd be nice if you liked him too. Everyone else does."

Laxus huffed. "Yeah, I know everyone does," he muttered. "I'm just worried about you and not because of Veronika," he inserted when Mary Jane frowned. "You're still my little girl, Butterfly. Of course I'm going to worry about you and what you're going through and what the Hell you and that boy do when you come home hours later—"

"Daddy!" Mary Jane pinkened.

Laxus grinned. "What? Am I not allow to worry?"

"Well, no! I mean yes, but—!" Mary Jane pulled the comforter up to cover her mouth. "Well, I'm not ready to do stuff like that…"

"And that's fine," Laxus assured. "But it's fine if you are."

Mary Jane's eyebrows were drawn together as her father took off his glasses. "Daddy?"

Laxus rubbed his cheek. "I know I've been a little hard," he admitted with a note of remorse, "but I don't want you to shut me out. I don't need or want to know what you and the kid do. But if you have questions, I promise I'll answer them. I'm sorry I made you feel like you couldn't come to me."

"It's okay, Daddy," Mary Jane soothed.

Laxus sighed and looked down at his daughter. "You're growing up so much," he murmured. "What happened to my little girl who used to run to my bedroom when there was a thunderstorm?"

Mary Jane sat up to lean against her father. "Oh, Daddy. I'm still here. Still your daughter and still your youngest kid. Just to prove it to you, you should get me more presents than Lance for Christmas."

Laxus barked a laugh. "Definitely my daughter."

Mary Jane smiled. "But since we're on the subject of growing up and stuff, I have a question."

"Go for it."

"I know Igneel was allowed to come over when you and Mom weren't home, but—"

"Butterfly."

"Wait, wait!" Mary Jane looked up at her father. "I was just going to say if it would be okay if Peter came over when you or Mom were home."

Laxus bobbed his head. "I can live with that. But if you two come upstairs, door stays open." He smiled when Mary Jane squealed and hugged him.

"You're the best, Daddy, thank you!"

"You're welcome." Laxus pulled away to get off the bed. "Let the kid know he's welcome for dinner. I might be fine with you to being in a relationship," but"—he smirked—"doesn't mean I can't stop terrifying the kid." He cackled and strolled out of the room when Mary Jane rolled her eyes. "Get some rest, Butterfly." And he closed the door after him.

Mary Jane nuzzled into her bed with her heating pad thankfully relieving her of her cramps and got out her Compact to see she had a missed call from Peter. Smiling, she called him back and said, "Hey, sorry I missed you."

Rustling. "No worries. Just wanted to make sure you're doing okay." A beat. "And I missed you. I got a little too spoiled seeing you for an entire weekend."

Mary Jane laughed and curled into her heating pad. "I think I did too. I'm okay. I have a heating pad and my mom's making me some of my favorite comfort foods. But about dinner, does this weekend sound good?"

"Sure! I'll let my parents know."

"Will they like me?" Mary Jane asked as worry cramped her mind. "Y'know, considering I'm a Mage?"

"My dad doesn't have as big of a problem with Mages as my mom, but my mom promised she'd be on her best behavior. I know that doesn't sound promising and we can leave if she makes you uncomfortable."

Mary Jane felt warmed by the offer. "It's okay. I've handled far worse in my life. I'll be fine. But speaking of dinner, my parents wanted to know if you wanted to come over and have dinner?"

Silence.

Mary Jane frowned. "Peter?"

A laugh. "Well, damn, I was going to surprise you with a little care package idea my cousin sent me to help with cramps and stuff and dinner in bed."

"O-Oh!" Mary Jane could not help her beam. "That's really sweet of you!"

"My cousin deserves the credit, not me. Jinn just told me things she would have wanted," Peter explained. "But, sure, dinner sounds great. My parents are out tonight anyways. You'll protect me from your dad, right?"

"But of course," Mary Jane tittered. "I'll protect you from the wicked Thunder God, my fair maiden."

"I am not a 'maiden' in this situation, okay, I am a—what does your cousin Esme say?"

"A daniel in distress?"

Peter burst out laughing. "Yes. I am a daniel in distress," he amended. "Your cousins are hilarious. But while I'm at the store, what should I bring for dinner? Any dessert or anything?"

The offer surprised Mary Jane and she thought about it. "Well, you can bring my daddy's favorite dessert." She rolled her eyes. "He's such a child."

"What's the dessert?"

"He loves M-n-N cookie sticks and Reeses-stuffed Oreos."

Silence.

"Sweets, I think your dad is going to fall in love with me after tonight," Peter determined, giddy. "I love M-n-N cookie sticks and Reeses-Oreos! Finally! I have an in! I might be able to kiss you without him trying to fry me!"

Mary Jane giggled. "Peter, I don't think dessert will stop him from that."

"One can hope!" Peter cheered. "I just need that one in and, Sweets, I swear to you, your dad is gonna love me and hope I stick around and sweep you off your feet. You'll see. And being able to kiss you without fearing death is an added bonus."

Mary Jane shook her head at Peter's silliness when words from the OB/GYN came back to her. "Hey, Peter?"

"Yeah?"

Mary Jane clutched her Compact tighter. "Are you…happy I'm on birth control?"

A pause. "Well, is it something you wanted to do?"

"Yeah, it is."

"Then, I'm happy. Sweets, your body is your body and you should do whatever you want with it as long as it makes you happy."

"I know, but…" Mary Jane tensed and rubbed her heating pad. "I mean with birth control, we could…"

"Have sex?" Peter finished without shame. "We could, I guess. But I thought neither one of us was ready for that? Did you change your mind—?"

"No, no!" Mary Jane rushed to assure. "I just…!" She blew out her cheeks. "I don't know. I'm not saying anything right."

Rustling again. "Sweets, birth control is for you," Peter told her. "I'll be honest. If we decided to have sex, yeah, I'd want to make sure we were both protected. But your body is yours. You should be comfortable in it and protective of it."

Another flutter of the heart. Mary Jane closed her eyes. "Sorry. I didn't mean to imply anything."

"No, it's good you asked! I'm really happy you were honest with me. If you are ever ready for us to have sex, just be honest with me." Three beats. "And if I'm not ready—"

"Then, that's fine and we wait," Mary Jane finished.

Peter let out a laughing exhale. "I'm not gonna lie and say I don't get excited when we make-out," he confessed sheepishly. "I just don't want to make you uncomfortable."

"We'll figure it out together," Mary Jane promise. Before she could second guess herself, she coyly added, "Besides…you think I don't get excited when you touch me?"

She smiled when Peter groaned. "I want to ask how hot you get, but I don't want to sound like a perv."

She tittered. "Well, you see, when you touch me, Peter, and kiss my neck," she purred, a secret thrill running through her when she heard her boyfriend's breathing hitch, "I get very…very…" And she hung up before she burst into a fit of muffled laughter.

It took a minute until Peter texted her.

« Evil. You are pure evil »

« I will remember this »

« Let me know when dinner is. Save room for dessert. Let me know what your mom's favorite dessert is too, please, and thank you »

« And if I didn't say it enough – I really like you »

Mary Jane texted back her answers before she looked at her ceiling. "I have a boyfriend. And he's amazing." She rolled over to check her nightstand. Igneel's scarf and the ring she had found lay on her nightstand with a framed image of her and Igneel together from Mary Jane's before times. She looked rightfully pissed off and startled that Igneel had literally dropped in on her for a quick selfie. Igneel's letter had been folded neatly back into the envelope to rest against the frame.

Mary Jane fingered her charm. "I hope everything is going well for you, Igneel," she wished. "I'm doing what you wanted and living my life and it feels wonderful." Cerulean-scarlet softened as her fingers reached out to touch Igneel's face. "I hope you're doing the same. I hope wherever you are right now, you're smiling and laughing."

Her hand drew back to wrap around her acorn button charm. "Be safe and smiling wherever you are. I love you, moron." She kissed her acorn button before rolling back into bed for a much-needed nap.

Gigi walked Silver and Ena to the front door and Silver had wordlessly picked up Ena's backpack and handbag without a noise of complaint. Ena stood to hug Gigi. "Thanks so much, Gigi," she murmured. "I feel a lot better about the designs now."

"Of course, darling," Gigi said affectionately. "Your designs are always going to be great. You don't need me to approve of them."

"I guess not, but it's still nice," Ena remarked, sheepish. "Are you sure L's dress—?"

"Yes, my darling, the dress is perfect," Gigi insisted, exasperated and amused. "But I know you'll worry about it even while the poor girl is at the Yule. Your artwork speaks, darling, it says you are talented. Way more than I was when I was your age. Now, you just need to believe in your talent and let it speak." He nodded over to Silver. "Right, lad?"

"U-U-Uh, right?" Poor Silver looked so confused.

Gigi chuckled and patted Ena's cheek. "Come by for dinner sometime soon. My niece would like to thank you for my great-niece's clothes."

"I will," Ena promised. "See you soon!" And she walked away from the tailor shop with an awkward Silver murmuring his own farewell before jogging to catch up with her. "I hope I can read your handwriting," she said crisply. "I don't want to have to text you every single sentence to figure out what you were saying."

Silver scowled. "I have good handwriting."

Ena snorted. "Primacy school handwriting at best." She held out her hand. "Com?"

Silver grumbled and wrenched out her Compact from her handbag. As she typed, his curiosity got the better of him and he had to ask, "So… How long have you known Gigi for?"

"For four years," Ena said absently. "Not exactly a secret. Gigi used to help with a lot of the costume stuff Fairy Tail did and mentored me. I wouldn't be as far as I was without Gigi. Why?"

"U-Uh, no reason," Silver hurried to say. "Just wondering."

Ena scrunched her nose. "Okay." And she ignored him as she kept sifting through her Compact.

Maybe for her, that silence was not awkward, but for Silver, that uncomfortable air choked him. This is weird. Why is this weird? It's just witchy Fernandes. Guilt took a stab at him. I mean I did leave her hanging for three hours. Sure, we're not friends, but…that's not cool to do to a guildmate and Lulu's friend. Determination set him straight. I've gotta make it up to her.

"Fernanes, want to come to dinner with me?/I'm hungry. Let's go back to L's house—"

Both stopped when they realized they had spoken at the same time. Blushing, Silver waved his hands. "Um, you were saying?"

Ena raised an eyebrow. "I was saying I'm hungry," she repeated. "We should head back to L's house since she's cooking dinner soon."

"O-Oh…" Silver rubbed the back of his neck. "Right. Sure."

Ena narrowed her eyes. "What are you hiding?"

Silver comically tensed and sweated. "Um, nothing, nothing! It's just some stupid idea I had is all," he nervously laughed. Why am I acting like an idiot? This is so awkward. "I just wanted to see if you wanted to come with me to my team dinner, but since you want to go back to Lulu's house and I'm sure you're tired—"

"Team?" Ena parroted, perplexed. "You mean the guild? Last time I checked, you don't work with a team."

Silver shook his head. "Uh, no, not the guild. I meant my swim team."

Ena blinked twice. "You're on a swim team?"

°•°•°•°

The home Ena was welcomed to was a nice ranch-style home with an extensively renovated basement with its own bar, man-cave, and full guest suite. The food laid on the counter of the bar, but most of the food had been eaten during seconds and thirds. Silver's swim team was a plethora of students who all wore gear from their swim team from the Magnolia High School, some varsity, other junior varsity but still under one team. The older teammates had taken a backseat to the chaos of game playing like Twister, but they had no problem versing their juniors in pool or in Lacrima-games. The two family dogs enjoyed all this company with belly rubs and coos and extra treats from gullible humans.

Ena was hilariously unused to being in such a chaotic setting. Fairy Tail Mage, she was, but she was surrounded mainly by older teenagers and adults who broke out into bar fights over one little insults. With them, she could use her sword no problem. But with regular Spiritless children, a sword would not do.

She had a feeling she may get arrested for threatening anyone here with her blade.

Ena kept to herself, then, away from all the noise. She knew Molly's face from all her pop-up visits to the guild, and of course, she knew Silver, but the rush of introductions had her forget names to faces and only remembered their fashion as identifiers. She ate her food primly and was overwhelmed when the teammates attacked the buffet with a fury that could rival the Dragon Slayers of the guild. So this is his swim team? Her eye twitched when she noticed a pair of teammates sneaking into the guest portion of the basement. Fairy Tail is chaos I can understand, but these people are all so… She grimaced when she saw a few teammates playing a dancing game hip thrust and make pseudo-lewd noises.

"Charming," Ena muttered.

Silver came back to her, happy as a clam (and sweaty, by the way Ena's nose scrunched up and shifted away from him) and beamed. "How's the food?"

"Good." That was probably the first true thing she said all night. "My compliments to all the chefs."

Silver laughed. "They're just the parents, Fernandes."

"Yes, well…" Ena brought up the napkin on her lap to dab her mouth. "Compliments to them then." She looked at the wide array of beverages and her lips pursed seeing so many options of pop. "Do they happen to have anything else other to drink than pop and anything without artificial sweeteners?"

"Don't be such a spoil-sport, Fernandes," Silver crooned. "C'mon, try some! It can't hurt!"

"It can, actually," Ena stiffly negated. "No nutritive value yet it makes you gain weight. I think I'll stick to water."

Silver shrugged. "Suit yourself!"

"Hey, Fullbuster!" came shout. "We're gonna play spin the bottle soon! You in?"

"For sure!" Silvern nudged Ena who did not take kindly to that. "Don't be such a sourpuss at a party, Fernandes. Come play spin the bottle."

"For what?" Ena questioned. "I don't know any of these people."

Silver rolled his eyes and took her hand to yank her out of her seat. "Come on…! You have to socialize at some point!"

"I do socialize," Ena vented. "I network. And I speak to L all the time—"

"Socialize outside of Lulu," Silver stressed. The teammates were all gathering together in a large circle. "This'll be fun, I promise." Unceremoniously, Silver sat her down sandwiched between two of his teammates, and took his seat on the opposite side of the circle.

Ena's eyebrow twitched. You vile fool. You'll see my blade once all these people aren't around to witness. She flashed a tentative smile to one of the male teammates on her right when they caught eyes, but her smile fumbled when he gave her a broad grin and a healthy once over.

As one of the varsity teammates explained the name of the game, the male teammate murmured lowly, "So, you're Bullet's girlfriend?"

⌜MAGNOLIA HIGH SCHOOL SWIM TEAM

Name: Jasper Langley

Age: 15

Occupation: Swimmer, 2nd-year student

Likes: Magimon GO! Dislikes: greyhound races

Special Note: Jasper might not look it, but he's an avid collector of Magimon cards and aims to work at The Magimon Company one day!⌟

"Who?"

Jasper tilted his head to Silver who laughed with the rest of the team. "Fullbuster. He's called 'Bullet' on the team. He cuts through the water like a bullet does on land. Dude's crazy fast." A hint of admiration. "No wonder he's the youngest to swim for varsity."

Ena appraised Silver as he listened to what a girl on his left said with a grin. Hm. Perhaps the lovesick fool does have talent. "No, I'm not his girlfriend," she answered the previous question. "We're acquaintances from the same guild." She led out her hand daintily. "The introductions were a little fast. My name is Ena—"

"No, I know who you are." Jasper must have seen the look on Ena's face and the way her hand retracted so fast. "No, not like anything creepy like that," he rushed to say. "No, just… Bullet talks about you a lot during practice or when we're out."

Ena's eyes narrowed. "Oh, does he? And what exactly does he say? Please speak as clearly and detailed as you can, so I can remember every single word for later use."

Jasper snickered. "He bitches and moans about you being anti-love," he admitted. "When he's not talking about his 'beloved'"—he used loose air quotes and a little eye roll—"he's always in a mood talking about you."

You'll meet my blade sooner than you wanted to, Fullbuster. Ena cocked her head. "'Beloved', huh?" Her lips twitched. "I take it you're not too big of a fan on his little love guru aura?"

"I support my dude through thick and thin, but Jesus, I've never heard anyone talk about such boring things a person could do with such…cheerfulness," Jasper laughed. "Y'know? He can tell me his 'beloved Paige' sneezed and he'd paint it out to be the most angelic sound on earth."

Ena laughed. "I know, right? If she even sighs, suddenly, even the birds stop to hear her breathe."

"Right?" Both of them shared an amused look. "So, uh… Are you really as anti-love as he says?"

Ena rolled her eyes. "I'm not 'anti-love'," she answered, "but I don't see the point in getting worked up about the subject. Too many people use love in the wrong way. It's not a fleeting thing. It's not even a feeling. Love is a commitment you have to work on." She shrugged. "But people hear what they want to hear and do what they want to do. So if me disagreeing in thinking I need to worship the ground my partner walks to show them I love them is anti-love, so be it."

"Oh."

Ena frowned at the look on Jasper's face. "What is it?"

"Well... You just said 'partner'," Jasper told. "So are you…?"

"Oh!" Ena realized what he meant. "No, sorry, I just like using the word partner. The whole boyfriend-girlfriend thing doesn't sit right with me. And I'm not dating anyone nor am I looking to. My work and my school and my future are more important than a few disappointing dates."

Jasper simpered. "Fair enough," he agreed. "Swimming pretty much takes over my life, so I feel that. I don't have time for girls or for dates." He made a moue. "'Sides, my dads are on my case about scouts with me being varsity. If I want a full-ride, I have to be in my best shape and keep my grades up."

"Dads?" Ena remembered the parents she had met, but she did not remember a same-sex couple.

"Oh, right, sorry, you wouldn't know. My dads are woman and man, but my one dad is a trans woman." Jasper shrugged. "She's still 'dad' to me and she doesn't mind. We just laugh a lot when people think I'm being disrespectful or wonder what the heck is going on."

Ena laughed behind a hand. "It would be funny seeing people's faces," she agreed. "Getting an athletic scholarship can be difficult. What would you major in without it?" She realized her frankness and tried to apologize. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean—"

"Hey, chill, no worries," Jasper soothed. "My dads made sure I had a back-up plan. I want to go to the Grand Athletic Games, but, even so, I might not make it. So, I decided I'd still want to be a neural engineer." He guffawed when Ena's eyebrows rose. "Surprised?"

"A tad," Ena admitted. "That's quite a goal. I hope you can accomplish either one of them."

"Thank you." Jasper meant it. "And what about you? Silver mentioned something about you being a fashion designer?"

"What words did he actually use?" Ena wanted to know, flat.

Jasper offered a sheepish smile. "A clothing diva."

Ena swiveled a burning glare onto Silver and she knew he could feel it by the way he tensed up and pointedly look the other way while sweating bullets. She itched to command her sword to her. Your death will be painful, Fullbuster, mark my words! Turning back to Jasper, she gritted, "Well, I am a fashion designer. I do clothing exclusively for Fairy Tail and other clientele who contact me."

"That's pretty sick," Jasper complimented. "Though, you'd probably die of horror seeing my closet is full of black, white, gray, and blue."

Ena beamed. "Actually, no, that color scheme is brilliant! Neutral tones are always the way to go and can be matched with anything and blue gives it that pop of color that doesn't stand out too much and pull everything together. It's the accent your neutral tones need. Well done."

"Thanks, but could you tell my dads that?" Jasper asked, entertained. "They keep trying to get me to wear more colors, but my complexion isn't here for it."

Ena swatted his arm. "Don't be absurd. People would kill for your skin tone," she admonished. "Honestly, you can work any color you set your mind to." Ideas poured over her. "Here." She whipped out her Compact and opened up an app when she saw Jasper was still too far away. "Well, don't just sit there. Come here." Jasper scooched in as she brought up her color wheel. "Now, in my opinion, since you like neutral tones and blues, you might not want anything that makes you stand out too much. So I recommend a nice strong violet…"

Silver's gaze strayed as one of his teammates was asked to reveal an embarrassing truth about themselves and landed on Ena and Jasper. He watched as Ena eagerly showed Jasper what was on her Compact, but his eyes narrowed when he thought he caught Jasper giving her a lingering stare. Why would Jasper even want to talk to Fernandes? Why does he keep looking at her? He shook his head. Maybe I'm just seeing things. But his eyes bounced back to the pair and narrowed when he saw Jasper sit back and his hand went to Ena's other side. Silver's hand clenched to a fist.

Ena's introductions to colors were interrupted when the team hooted and both Jasper and Ena looked up to see the bottle pointed directly at her. Jasper cracked up while Ena looked puzzled. "Me? But I'm not even on the team."

"Just do it, Fernandes," Silver drawled. "Don't tell us you're scared."

Ena narrowed a glare onto Silver while the team oohed. "What exactly am I to be doing?"

"Well…" The teammate who had lost gone choose a card from the pile and read it. A grin smacked her face. "You have to do seven minutes in Heaven."

Ena did not understand. "Excuse me?"

Jasper murmured in her ear, "They'll put you in a closet with someone and you can just wait it out for seven minutes, make-out, or talk."

"Oh." To the group, Ena announced as she got up. "Fine. Where's the closet? And who am I going in there with?"

"Spin the bottle!" came a shout. And soon a chant came along. "Spin the bottle! Spin the bottle!"

Ena frowned, but she got back to her knees and reached out for the bottle to give it a quick spin. Everyone cheered and clapped as the bottle spun around and around until it slowed and landed right on Jasper. While the team cheered and applauded and mocked the two with kissing noises, Jasper got to his feet and helped Ena as well. "I guess we're stuck talking then," he jested. He held out her hand. "Shall we, clothing diva?"

Ena slipped her hand in his. "We may, jock."

Jasper led her away to the designated closet which was just the basement laundry room that stored the heater and boiler, and he closed the door behind them. Silver ignored when someone started the timer and tried to get involved in the conversation two teammates were having, but his ears kept picking up all the little theories others had about what was happening.

"I bet they're kissing."

"Did you see the way Jasper was looking at her? Totally taken."

"Isn't she Bullet's girlfriend?"

"No, he likes that other girl, remember? Which means she's free and Jasper's free."

"Guys, we might have a new OTP."

"They're totally making out."

Silver dragged his glare away from the door and withdrew into himself. What are they even doing in there? I bet Fernandes is annoying him by saying how bad our uniforms are and she could do better. Not like she'd be civil, anyways. She's been a total stick in the mud since we got here. Jasper's probably desperate to run away from her. Yeah. That's it. Probably just waiting in silence.

Those seven minutes felt like hours to Silver until the timer went off and the two emerged. The first thing he noticed was how pink Ena's cheeks were and the second thing he noticed was the sated grin on Jasper's face. Ena murmured something and Jasper pointed. Ena nodded and made her way to grab her bag before going to the hallway. Silver forced himself to look away, jaw taut, as everyone crowded for information.

"Did you guys kiss?"

"Please, they totally did!"

"We didn't kiss," Jasper laughed. "Get your minds out of the gutter. We just talked and got to know each other better." He rolled his eyes and shook his head when everyone whistled and oohed. "Not like that, you sick pervs. A friendly conversation."

"Look a little too friendly to me." Silver did not mean to blurt it, but he could not take it back.

Jasper raised an eyebrow, perplexed. "I mean, sure, I guess? But, no, we just talked. Nothing else." He jerked his chin to the bottle. "She won't be back for a little while, so I'll take a spin."

Silver could not sit still as his eyes kept going over to the hallway. Jasper had gotten a dare choice about letting someone see the pictures in his Compact, but Silver had tuned everything out. Why hasn't she come out yet? What's taking her so long? And why was she blushing? Too restless, Silver got up without preamble and meandered to the hallway. The bathroom door was shut and he heard the sound of the sink, so he waited outside until Ena emerged.

"Goodness!" Ena gasped when she realized Silver was right in front of her. "What are you—?"

"Why'd you leave the closet blushing?" Silver blurted.

For a moment, confusion wrapped around Ena. "What?"

"The closet," Silver repeated even though he knew he was talking like a crazed man. "You and Jasper… What were you two even doing in there?"

"Oh." Ena fixed her bag. "We were just talking."

Silver scoffed. "Is that what they're calling it these days?"

Ena glowered at him through narrowed eyes. "I don't owe you a more detailed explanation that that, Fullbuster," she snapped. "And I don't deserve your attitude either."

"Like you haven't been giving attitude since you came here!" Silver shoved back in her face.

Now Ena did take that and grimace. "And you're right," she begrudgingly admitted. "I haven't exactly been a picturesque guest, but I hope to change that." She tried to move past him, but Silver blocked her. "Anything else I can help you with?" she hissed icily.

"You can tell me why you left the closet like that," Silver retorted.

Ena huffed and planted a hand on her hip. "If you must know, my period started." No blush to her cheeks came as she said it. "The reason I excused myself was that I needed to put in a tampon. Does that satisfy you or must you throw more accusations at me?"

That caught Silver off-guard and he hated how viable her reasoning sounded and the guilt he felt for challenging her so extensively. But his stubborn ego refused to be bruised. "Whatever. Next time, don't just go into closets randomly with a guy." He smirked. "For someone so anti-love, you're giving off a lot of easy vibes. Maybe that's why Misty doesn't like you."

A chord struck with Ena.

Immense guilt filled Silver when he heard his words. His smirk dropped when he fathomed the weight of what he said. "Wait, Fernandes, I didn't mean…"

"It's all right." Spine straight, chin up, Ena refused for her eyes to show anything other than indifference. "We're not friends, so you can say whatever you'd like about me. If conversations with interesting people make me 'easy', then I guess I'm no better than the common slut. And if that's the case, you're right. How could Mystogan want a slut for a sister?"

"No, that's not what I—"

"Anyways," Ena bulldozed over his words, "I better be going. It's a long walk back to L's house and I want to make sure I'm close before it gets dark." She nodded at Silver. "Good night." She pushed past him and out of the hallway.

Silver hated how wrong this night had gone. "Fernandes, wait!" He chased after her only to see Jasper had gotten up to follow after her, genuine concern on his face as she got on her backpack. She feigned a smile at him, but he remained unconvinced. Something he had had her shake her head, but he was persistent enough for Ena to conceded. Jasper called to the team he and Ena needed a ride to get Ena home.

What did I do? Silver whispered. I didn't mean to…

One of the older teammates jumped at the chance, grabbed their keys, and Jasper and the teammate herded Ena up the stars. Silver felt even worse when Ena did not even give him a reproachful glare or anything. She just pretended like he did not hurt her, like he did not exist.

Fernandes… Wait…

Whatever possessed Silver carried his feet up and out of the basement. He ignored the confused parents to gun through the living room and saw Ena, Jasper, and the other teammate get on their shoes and coats. He rushed over to Ena. "Fernandes, wait, I'm sorry—"

"No need to apologize," Ena dismissed, blithe. "It's forgotten. In fact"—she readily met his gaze—"it's like it didn't exist." She waited for no one as she left the house with Jasper following after her with a weird glance thrown at Silver as he and the other teammate left.

Silver watched through the glass screen door as they all piled into a car. Jasper had taken to the backseat with Ena, worried for her, but Ena brushed off the concerns as the car pulled out of the driveway and onto the street. Emotions tangled within Silver's stomach, but the one he felt most of all was shame. "I'm sorry." He pressed a hand to the glass and knew he would curse time and time again how stupid he had been. "I'm sorry…Ena."

Dinner at the Dreyar Residence had ended amicably with Mary Jane a lot less sore and Laxus not as murderous with Peter when Peter had presented him with the cookie sticks and Reese's-stuffed-Oreos that had the normally stoic Thunder Dragon God foaming at the mouth in glee and ignoring Mira's chiding he needed to watch his sugars as he chomped down on his share of sweets. For Mira, Peter had offered her a double-chocolate cheesecake slice which she appreciated softly (even if she gave her husband the evil eye when he tentatively asked if he could have a bite when she had not even taken a bit of her own). For Mary Jane, Peter kept it classic with her favorite ice cream.

"Thanks again for dinner, Misses Dreyar," Peter appreciated. "It was really good!"

"No trouble at all, Peter," Mira assured, tone warm. "Thanks for helping with the dishes. If only some people around the house would help out every day." Those kind words were steeped in a bloodlust that had Laxus and Mary Jane sweating profusely. But when Mira focused back on Peter, father and daughter could sigh in relief they had been spared. "So, Peter, did you enjoy your stay at the lodge?"

"Oh, absolutely!" Peter said, enthusiastic. "It was a lot of fun! You guys have such a big family, but it was amazing to see all the different personalities." To Mira, he whispered, "Does Veronika really try to kill Nik?"

"Oh, yes!" Mira chirped happily. "It's how they show affection. Isn't it wonderful?"

Peter's eye twitched and he forced a laugh. "Y-Yeah… Great…" Is Sweets going to try to kill me too?

Laxus barked a laugh. "You should've seen Mira back in the day. She was just as murderous as Ronnie! Would've kicked my ass multiple times if it wasn't for Erza stepping in."

"And I still could, sweetie," Mira said with another bite of cheesecake. "I could have you on the ground and begging for your life to be spared in seconds if you'd like." She forked off a small morsel of her cheesecake to offer to her husband. "Now, that I'm getting full, you want a bite?"

How can she say something so dark so calmly and then talk about cheesecake! Peter cried.

Laxus took the bite and stared into this loving ceruleans with his own affection. "Thanks, baby. I know you could take me out. It's what I love about you."

Mira giggled. "Oh, stop it, Laxus, there are children around."

"And I didn't say anything bad," Laxus chuckled. "Unless you want to talk about that time on Tenrou Island."

As Mira snorted and blushed, Mary Jane made a face of disgust. "Ugh, god, you guys, gross!" She whispered to Peter, "Ignore them. They've been gross every day of my life, but I guess they'll still be gross with guests around. Sorry."

"No, it's fine." Peter made sure Laxus was preoccupied whispering in his wife's ear to grin at his girlfriend. "Make it easier to do this." He snuck a kiss onto Mary Jane's lips and his body hummed when he tasted the creaminess of her ice cream combined with her natural taste.

Mary Jane was the one to pull back with her cheeks flushed, but Peter noticed that ring of violet in her eyes. "Not with my parents around," she hissed, but she knew her voice came out as breathless as he felt. "I said I'd protect you from Daddy, but he's too close in range for me to do that properly."

Peter snickered. "Well, I do have a car for a reason."

"Yes"—Peter jolted under the weight of Laxus' growl—"to drive responsibly and not do anything funny to my daughter."

Peter sweated when Laxus loomed over him with lightning in his eyes. "Y-Y-Yes, sir. O-Of course, sir!"

Laxus moved to threaten the poor boy, but his fight was smacked out of him and left him coughing when Mira hit him on the back with a beam. "Come now, Laxus, we talked about this," she chided. "Getting angry like this is bad for your blood pressure. And Peter's an upstanding young man. You approved of their relationship and everything, remember?"

Laxus got control of himself. "Yeah, but that doesn't mean I want him doing anything funny with Mary Jane—" The next smack nearly took him to the ground.

"Don't be so sour, Laxus," Mira tittered. "Don't you remember what you were doing when you were their age?"

Silence.

Mary Jane effortlessly pulled Peter to the safety of the living room while Laxus shouted for Mira to let him go. Peter groaned, "I really thought tonight was the night your dad would actually like me, not try to kill me…again!"

"He does like you, though," Mary Jane pointed out. "He let you inside the house. That means he likes you."

What sort of definition is that! Peter sighed and scratched his head. "Ah, well, I guess I'll take it." He noticed after the adrenaline of trying to not die by Laxus' hands that they were surrounded in pictures framed to the wall. He took a look for himself to see pictures of the entire Dreyar family and smiled. "This you? You look adorable."

Mary Jane peeked over his shoulder and nodded. "Yeah. I was way younger then." She giggled when she saw Veronika was trying to stab Nik while Nik smiled for the camera and easily held back her wrist. Lance was the shier of all the kids and clung to his mother's side, but Mary Jane had a pure beam as her father held her up. "I miss those days a lot, I think."

"You think?"

Mary Jane shrugged. "Well, I don't really remember them. But from the pictures and what I do remember, life was a lot easier back then. Sure, Nik and Veronika were always getting into trouble, but the house was full and I got to see them almost every day." She rolled her eyes. "Though Nik was always out with some new girl and Veronika and Esme would party a lot. Daddy gave them a lot of freedom like my Granddaddy did, but I don't think he liked coming home to see Veronika making out with someone at the house."

"Understandable," murmured Peter. "But you guys sound like you had the full sibling experience. I wish I had that. It sounds fun to grow up in such a huge household."

"It is and it isn't," Mary Jane answered. "It's nice to have a big family you can rely on, but it gets overwhelming pretty quickly. And everyone expects great things, especially since my granddaddy was a pretty high-up-there guild master of Fairy Tail for so long." A fond little smile toyed with her lips. "It's funny. Daddy and Mom would take us to all these inductions on behalf of my granddaddy. I used to think they were pointless, but to see him honored like that… It's amazing looking back."

"And is he…?"

Mary Jane shook her head. "He's not dead." She pulled him over to a larger family portrait and pointed at a wheel-chaired man with a wide grin as he held a baby Mary Jane and Elvin in his lap while the rest of the family crowded around him. "This is him. Makarov Dreyar. My granddaddy."

Peter blinked then facepalmed. "I should've seen the connection with your last name and hearing 'Guild Master'," he grumbled. "Your grandfather was one of the most influential guild masters Fiore had ever seen. Hell, Ishgar had ever seen. He was incredible."

"He was—is," Mary Jane amended, but a spark of sadness doused her eyes. "He likes with Luna's grandma Anna a ways away from him and his caretaker and service dog. Daddy refused to put Granddaddy in a home, so it was really nice of Miss Anna to take him in and his caretaker."

"Do you visit him often?"

Mary Jane sighed. "Not as much as I'd like to, no," she confessed. "It's…hard to visit him. He had dementia before I was born, but then he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's."

"I'm so sorry." Peter hugged her to his side.

Mary Jane leaned her head on his shoulder, though her eyes never strayed from Makarov. "It's okay," she mumbled. "I feel bad saying it's hard to visit him when he's the one with the disease, not me. When I used to visit him, he'd be so full of life and happy and wanted to play, but then I noticed he'd forget who I was and Miss Anna would have to take me away." Her eyes darkened. "I remember hearing him become upset. My daddy told me how a lot of what my granddaddy saw changed him. There was a big war with Alvarez and Fiore that left him with severe PTSD. My granddaddy wouldn't even tell my daddy what he saw when he was in Alvarez. But the toll just took too much on him, so…" She trailed off to find the right words. "I don't know. He can't travel anymore and my parents and I see him once a month, but it just feels like he's getting worse. I know my daddy hurts when my granddaddy doesn't know who he is. All my granddaddy seems to know is about his service dog Pippoko, his caretaker Katja, and Miss Anna."

"I can't even imagine," Peter said. "That's awful. But I know, even if he doesn't know who you are exactly to him, he feels some sort of happiness being surrounded by people with such light in their eyes."

Mary Jane closed her eyes. "You really mean that?"

"I do." Peter observed Makarov. "One day, I'd like to meet him."

That jolted Mary Jane. "But why?"

"Even if he isn't in his right state of mind, I'd still like to introduce myself to him and shake his hand," Peter determined. "It's obvious you admire your grandfather. The man was an amazing Mage and Guild Master. Shaking his hand would be an honor, but just meeting someone you admire so deeply? That's priceless."

Mary Jane tilted her head for cerulean-scarlet to connect with liquid gold. "You mean that?"

"Every word, Sweets," Peter promised in one breath.

"Thank you, Peter." Mary Jane took his cheeks and guided him down soft a soft kiss…

…and neither realized Laxus and Mira had seen such a gesture before both parents left the two alone.

°•°•°•°

When it was time for Peter to go, Mira made sure to box any leftovers he had wanted, though he insisted the family keep the desserts he brought. He stood on the porch with Mary Jane while her parents watched from inside, and he aimed a smile at the two of them. "Thanks for dinner again," he appreciated. "Tonight was great and delicious!"

"No problem at all," Mira dismissed. "I always love cooking for more than one person. You're always welcome to come back here anytime for dinner."

"Thanks, Misses Dreyar." Peter swallowed and held out his hand to Laxus. "Thanks for having me, sir." Please don't electrocute me… Laxus gripped Peter's hand and the young wizard flinched and waited for a bout of lightning, but it never came. Laxus was shaking his hand.

"Sure," Laxus grunted. As he dropped his hand, he glanced down at his wife before sighing. "Look, kid, as long as you can promise you won't do anything funny with my daughter…"—he offered a smile—"then you're more than welcome to come over whenever you like."

Mary Jane sparkled. "Really, Daddy?"

"Yes, Butterfly—oomph!" Laxus laughed when Mary Jane hugged him tightly. "Wouldn't do you any good if I didn't let your boyfriend come over to see you anyways. But if he's over, it's only when your mom and I are home and with your bedroom door open. Peter gets it." His smile widened towards the young man. "Right, kid?"

Peter felt covered in dread. Why does his smile still look like he wants to kill me? "R-R-Right, sir."

"Good. We're at an understanding." Laxus nodded at Peter. "And once she meets your parents, we'd like to meet them too."

"Your father sounds very interesting," Mira interjected, earnest. "I'd love to hear about the companies he worked for and the musicals he's been to! It's been so long since I've been too a musical…" She cast thought big blues on her sweating husband who tried not to look at her. "Some would say it's been years. I'd love to go again."

Peter chuckled while Laxus looked like he would rather swallow nails. "When my dad works for musical production companies, he usually can get up to four more guests. I'll have to see when his next contract is with one and tell you which musical." He ducked his head. "I'm always surrounded by music, so I tend to block it out. But there are a few musicals I do like. I really got into Witches, Rocky, Little Shop of Terrors, Dance, and Galileo."

Mira clapped, excited. "Oh, I love Witches!" She tapped her daughter. "Mary Jane, keep this young man around. He has excellent taste!"

"I'll try, Mom," Mary Jane giggled. "But Peter needs to get on the road, so…"

"Good night, Peter," Mira wished. "Have a safe drive."

"Thank you, Mister and Misses Dreyar. Good night!" With Mary Jane holding his hand, Peter led her down the steps and to his car. Once put the leftovers into his passenger's seat, he whirled around on Mary Jane. Both checked to see her parents had gone inside and closed the door, but they left the porch lights on. "That went well. But I have to know…" He gave her an odd look. "Trying to murder someone isn't how you show affection, right?"

Mary Jane shook her head and did not catch Peter's sigh of relief. "Mmm-mmm. I think the only person I ever attempted to kill was Igneel for breaking into my room all those times, but as for you?" She shrugged. "Nope. I'll just kiss you and hug you a lot and talk to you on the Com and surprise you with stuff instead. Is that okay?"

Peter wrapped an arm around her waist and smoothed a hand down her hair. "In comparison to potential murder, I think I like your way a lot better." He grinned when Mary Jane giggled. "C'mere." He brought her in for a deep kiss they could get lost in and barely did they take breaths between kisses. Though, at one point, Peter switched their positions, so Mary Jane was against his car, and his kisses dropped across her next that had her squirm and raked her nails through his hair. He pulled away, both breathless, and dropped his head onto her shoulder. "Dammit," he laughed. "I didn't think it would get this heavy."

Mary Jane was too out of breath to laugh. "We could be worse."

"How is that?"

"Ever seen Wolf Teens or Dawn?"

Peter laughed even more into her shoulder. "Yeah, I have. You're right. We are nowhere near that level." He pulled his head up to tuck locks of fallen hair back behind her ears. "For starters, there's no age-baiting. I'm definitely not over a century old. And two, there's no glittery, weird energy I'm giving off, right?"

"Nope!" Mary Jane charmed him with her smile. "And I'm thankful for that." Another kiss came and another and an—

"Is that you, Mary Jane?"

Peter pulled away and muffled his groan while Mary Jane's shoulders shook with laughter. She turned her head to see Misses Takanashi had come out on her porch with that old dog of hers. "Yeah, Misses Takanashi!" Mary Jane called. "It's me!"

"Heavens, girl, it's getting late out!" Miss Takanashi offered a toothy grin. "Is Igneel keeping you out this late? That rascal."

"N-No, Misses Takanashi, it's not Igneel!" Mary Jane shouted. "This is my boyfriend Peter!"

"Hello, ma'am!" Peter called.

Misses Takanashi waved. "Why, hello, Peter, dear!" she greeted. "I'll leave you kids to it then!" And she shuffled back inside with her dog lopping after her.

Mary Jane sighed. "She's sweet, but she can be a little nosey," she supposed. She tried to gauge the expression on Peter's face, but he was hard to read. "Peter, what she said is nothing, I promise. Igneel was normally being thrown out my bedroom window and wouldn't be caught dead coming out the front doors." She shook her head. "Moron." When Peter's hand touched her cheek, Mary Jane let it guide her and her eyes fell shut on the slow kiss Peter burned her with.

He pulled back ever-so-gently and liquid gold seared into cerulean-scarlet. "I told you I trust you," he murmured to her. "And I know you like me. That's all that matters. I promise I'm not jealous."

Mary Jane pitched up an eyebrow. "Really?"

"Okay, a little jealous," Peter confessed with a grin, "but it's stupid jealousy and I'll get over it. He's your best friend and it's obvious he cares about you and everyone could see that. And I'm okay with that. Still want to kick his ass for hurting you with that letter."

"Get in line," Mary Jane tittered. "I'm sure Nashi and Luke called 'dibs' on the first blow, but I'm next after them." She ruffled his hair. "But he had to leave and I'll respect that. As long as when he comes home, he was living his life to the fullest, I won't be as mad at him." She reached up to kiss Peter's cheek. "Drive safe and text me when you get home."

"I will." Peter ducked his head for another kiss on her lips. "And you're sure Luna doesn't know anything?"

"Doesn't suspect a thing," Mary Jane confirmed.

"Good. Because Bleu's excited about this and this is the first time he's gotten so excited for something." When Mary Jane moved out of the way, Peter opened the driver's side, put in his key, and turned on his car. "Just make sure you sound convincing—"

"And take lots of pictures," Mary Jane cut in with another kiss. "I know." She stepped back. "Be safe. And text me."

"I will." Peter sucked in a breath. "I really want to kiss you again, but if I do, I don't think I'll want to stop."

Mary Jane winked. "Who said I'd want you to?" A laugh escaped her when Peter grunted and he pulled her down for a soul-buzzing kiss, but he forced himself to pull away. "Don't get too excited," she teased.

"Too late for that," Peter grumbled. "Away with you, woman. You can't seduce me with your feminine whiles."

Mary Jane let out peals of laughter at that. "Who even says that?"

"Main characters in musicals about the medieval times," Peter said cheekily. "You are definitely the seductress in this story trying to tempt a poor, unarmed knight. So I will remember this, Sweets. Next time, you're the one getting seduced." He shut his door, but he rolled down the window as he put his foot on the brake and shifted to ⟪ Drive ⟫. "Be warned. Your Christmas gift might make you want to make out with me."

Mary Jane shook her head as she made her way up the driveway. "Bye, Peter…!" she sang as she waved at him. She knew he was waiting for her to be safely back inside before he drove away, so she quickly went inside and hurried to the window to watch him pull out and leave. A sigh escaped her as she leaned on the windowsill.

"He's dreamy, isn't he?"

Mary Jane was scared out of her wits and whipped around to see her mother behind her. "Mom!"

"You should have sensed me, Mary Jane," Mira reminded her. "I wasn't hiding my energy."

Mary Jane pouted. "Well, I just got kissed by the cutest guy on the planet. Can't I have a pass this time?"

Mira shook her head in amusement. "He is cute, isn't he? But you know, your dad's pretty cute too."

Mary Jane groaned and tore herself away from the window. "Mom…!"

"His butt is pretty cute when he wears leather pants—"

"Mom!"

It was evening in the District of Ishgar and the city seem to know that too. Sure, lights were on and a few Lacrima Cars and taxis were going back and forth, but for the main part, the District of Ishgar had shut down. Restaurants and stores and businesses had closed up shop. While a few convenience stores, a handful of bars, and the main two clinics were open, that was to be expected. Guardsmen took to patrol like normal, but the crime in the District of Ishgar was slim to none, especially with how many Magic Council Knights and high-powered magical politicians lived in the city. Only a fool would try to steal or attack in a place riddled with such intense magical aura.

The hotel was one of the top-tier hotels in the District of Ishgar where high-powered clients, politicians, and such stayed with an interior fountain, live-in musicians, and even floors dedicated to the privacy of its guests. The restaurant inside the hotel was housing a private matter of drunk well-dressed people. A couple tiptoed their way to the room with their takeout bags. A receptionist was trying hard not to get annoyed when one of the penthouse guests were demanding outrageous things from the staff.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

« This is Hotel Greed, one of the top listed hotels in both the District of Ishgar and all of Ishgar. »

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Nashi had showered vigorously the second they entered the hotel and changed in a shirt she had stolen from Gary and her and her mother shared a laugh and fondness when Nashi saw her mother had stolen a shirt from her father. Mister Wilson (Kyler) had been kind enough to give them adjoined rooms that shared a posh living space. They had called their family back home before going their separate ways. Nashi knew her mother would want to talk to her father, but she was content staying in the darkness of her bedroom.

Nashi slept on her side and let a hand roam the absent side. Gary would sleep here right here. She could envision it. I hadn't been too great to him before the whole Bellum accident, but still… After we'd shower together, we'd just lay down and talk. A smile lit her face. He'd be so funny and cute. Annoying, sure, but that's my perverted dog for you. Always pushing my buttons. Her smile died. But…I never noticed he kept the conversation on me. She rolled away. He'd focus on me and my thoughts and my favorite things. I always thought it was because he was an infatuated fool, but… She curled into herself. I should've asked him more questions about himself. About his friends and his likes and dislikes… But I never did. I was selfish. I took everything about him for granted.

Hickory shimmered. And now? Now that he knows about… Her hand went down to touch her stomach. He knows what my scars mean now and why I've been concealing them with Magic Concealer. He knows. She pressed her eyes shut. He knows I'm nothing more than a broken toy.

Faint paw steps. That's not true, Princess.

Nashi's eyes opened and she sat up to see Býleistr in his Cat Form. "Býleistr, you're back." She threw a coy smile at him. "So you do like looking like a kitty-cat, huh?"

Býleistr growled. "I'm only in this form because it's easier for me to travel this way. Humans here don't take well to my natural look and I've told I shouldn't terrorize humans." He sighed and allowed himself to grow into his Hybrid Form. "If there's one thing I know about the Wolverine, it's that he never considered you broken or a toy. The feeling I get from him is fierce protection and love. And that didn't change when that bastard outted you in front of everything." A snarl made him tremble. "I still want to rip out his throat—"

"Murder is illegal in the modern world," Nashi sighed as she laid back down. "And I'm morally against it."

Býleistr huffed. "Whatever." He eyed her. "Have you brought this up with your thera-whatever?"

"Therapist," Nashi sounded out patiently. "We talk around it, but I…" She held her stomach. "It's hard for me to talk fully about what happened."

"And when you see him again, will you mention what happened at that hotel?"

Nashi winced. "He'll see it." She knew that. "I don't know if I'll want to talk about it."

Býleistr relented. "That's fair." He looked out the window. The adjoining rooms had been given a shared balcony and the moon was in its first quarter. "The moon will be full by the end of the year," he predicted. A soft look entered his eye. "Full Moon Festivals were a favorite of mine to watch with the witches."

"Yeah?" Nashi turned to her side to face him. "What happened during that time?"

"The Heartfilia Clan used to celebrate every new moon and full moon with rituals," Býleistr explained. "Before the spirits themselves blessed the Heartfilia witches with the ability to walk through the veil, the Heartfilia witches would use every new moon to celebrate the Star King and the Moon Spirit for gracing them with a new month of blessings and thankfulness and their hope for another month of such matters. The full moon was a dedication to the spirits themselves and their time to try and connect with their ancestors who had crossed over."

"Really?"

Býleistr nodded. "It was a ritual my old mistress practiced. She…" He hunched forward. "When her lover died, she used the full moon as a way to communicate with them."

"That's so sad," Nashi mumbled. "I don't know if this is too painful to bring up, but… What was your old mistress like?"

Býleistr snorted. "Like you, actually," he began to describe. "Such a damn wild child who wouldn't listen to me. Leo was the Star Priestess' main knight back then and served her. My mistress was the second daughter of the Star Priestess at the time. Capricorn was the first daughter's guide like he has been for every to-be-priestess." He showed fang. "Leo gave me my mistress as a way to give me some responsibility. I was a bit of a reckless son of a bitch back in the day."

Nashi grinned. "What, you? No…! You're the definition of responsibility."

"Oh, shut up," Býleistr guffawed. "But yeah, I didn't meet my mistress on the best of terms. She didn't want me for a Star Spirit and I sure as Hell didn't want a no-nothing Heartfilia as my mistress. I, uh…" He scratched his cheek. "I wasn't too big on the clan back in the day and the whole servitude thing. Which is why I wreaked some harmless havoc and Leo was all too smug about pairing me with her because she knew she was a hard one to handle." He rolled his eyes. "Star King, over and over I'd have to chase down her ass for her little stints or else my tail would be on the line. Always running off with that partner of hers." He tched. "What a handful."

"A handful you miss," Nashi pointed out smartly.

Býleistr looked away. "Yeah." But he said nothing more on that. "But if there's one thing their little forbidden love taught me is how important it is for you to take every day to be with the person you care about most." He looked over at Nashi. "I know things are pretty hopeless right now and I know you're feeling out of whack, but trust me when I say, having that person you care about close to you helps rid the pain, even for a little while."

Nashi frowned and turned away. "If you haven't noticed, he's in prison."

"And if you haven't noticed, you're their Namer."

Nashi looked over her shoulder. "So? Býleistr, they're sealed in an Anti-Magic prison—"

"And didn't you listen to a word Kyler gave you?" Býleistr turned fully to face her. "Sure, regular telepathy wouldn't work. The Wolverine's trapped in a place where nothing that perceives as normal magical logic has access to. I'm sure the court was warned about the Wolverine having a connection to the Faction. By that logic, it would pick up and block any means of communication. But your connection with the Wolverine is on a different level that your planet isn't advanced enough to understand."

Is he calling Earth Land humans stupid? Nashi muttered, "Either way, I don't know how to connect with them—"

"Now you're just making excuses."

Nashi glared at her Celestial Spirit. "Excuse me?"

"You and I both know you know if you have me help you, you can access that link you share with the Wolverine," Býleistr growled matter-of-factly. "We're close enough to the Wolverine to do it. You just don't want to because you're scared."

"And what if I am?" Nashi snapped. "How am I supposed to face them when—?" Her glare cracked. "When…?" Her glare broke into a sad look. "How am I supposed to face them after today?"

"By taking it a sentence at a time."

Nashi looked up at the Leo Minor Spirit. "Býleistr…?"

"Neither one of them will push you for answers you aren't ready to give them or for answers you feel compelled to give them." Býleistr tapped his temple. "With our Rigil Link, I have access to your memories to better understand you as your trusty little servant. I've seen the memories. You've tried to tell him things you felt you had to tell him, but he refused because he wanted you to tell him when you wanted to tell him. Does that sound like the kind of guy that would push you?"

Nashi blinked away any tears and looked down. "No," she whispered.

"No," Býleistr agreed. "it sounds like someone who respects you in such high regard, they'd never ask you for anything. But…"—he got off the bed—"that's just my opinion." He went over to the balcony door and slide it open. "I'm going to go on the roof and do a quick perimeter scan." He looked up at the moon. "Might have a talk with a friend." He looked back at Nashi. "You have my key. Just use some of my power and you're all set." He stepped outside. "Don't answer the door for anyone. Let my traps take care of it. I'll see you later." He closed the door behind him and jumped up, disappearing.

Nashi huffed. "Know-it-all kitty." She turned over to see Býleistr's silver key laying on the nightstand, but she turned away from it and shut her eyes out of spite. "I'm going to bed," she told herself. "Stupid cat. Playing freaking mind games." She pulled the covers over her and sighed. I'm just not ready… Gary and Skade deserve more…than someone as ruined as me… Another sigh left her and she tried to get some sleep.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

And then…

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Time had passed even if the stars and the moon had not. Outside the occasional whizz of a Lacrima Car down a street, silence accompanied the District of Ishgar. Lucy had long since gone to bed and snored slightly with Plue and Actaeon in bed with her while Virgo sat in the living room to watch for any sign of potential danger. In Nashi's room, Býleistr was still missing, but that did not matter. Nashi stirred and her eyes cracked open. Blanket folded off her, she turned over to look at the silver Celestial Spirit key just lying there.

Another minute passed and she hesitantly took the key for herself. I just… I just want to make sure they're doing all right. She held the key to her heart, head bowed, and her eyes closed. That's it. Nothing more. Just to see how they're doing. Then, I'll leave. Without even needing to think about it, she grabbed onto the magical tether she had established with Býleistr and could feel a rush of Magic from him that burned bright and hot, but his own approval trickled through at her deed.

Just think of their souls… Envision them… Feel them… Nashi whispered. As the darkness encompassed her, it was easy for her to remembered that chilled winter that would envelop her warmth. To hear the whistles of the wind, the briskness on her skin, the frost she would puff out… Her soul was there, of course, in its light and purity, but she felt the struggles Skade and Gary incurred. She could see that light blue and dark blue swirling around her into a tornado until she was consumed.

And little by little…

…she fell into their souls.

DRIP.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

DROP.

Nashi opened her eyes. "Woah…" She looked around. "Where am I?"

The place she had been sent in was covered in bleeding heart flowers, pinkened and blossomed and ready. Her white dress billowed around her and her feet were without shoes. Even her own hair flowed about her in a warm breeze that simply did not exist. She took a look around her to witness the light and love this place pulsated and the energy thickened around her. "Seraphim?" she called tentatively. "Seraphim, are you there?"

'I am here, Little One.'

Nashi looked down on her chest to see Seraphim's symbol glowing on her chest. "Seraphim," she breathed in relief.

'Yes. But I do not come alone.'

Nashi looked beside her to see the ever-silent Cael at her side with his sunny smile that made her own smile widened. "Cael… You're here too."

Cael gently took her hand in his, and Nashi felt his own greeting and warmth fill her without abandon. He craned his neck over her and smiled. Nashi looked to see a translucent lion had appeared with a mane a dark orange, but its eyes bright. The Leo Minor constellation sparkled within its body and it rubbed its head against Nashi and teethed her hand in greeting.

"Býleistr," Nashi whispered. "You silly lion." She looked up at Cael. "Can you guys tell me where we are? I was trying to see Gary and Skade, not see my own soul."

'Little One, we are in the connection you have forged with the human and the Devil.'

Nashi frowned. "We are. But…"

'Look closely into the distance. Tell me what you see.'

Nashi lifted her head. Hickory squinted, then they suddenly widened. "What the…? No way…" She felt like a fool she had not seen it sooner. In the distance lay a blossoming forest teeming with life with springy aspen and oak and hemlock. To her surprise, she witnessed a creation of glowing white crawling against one of the trees and looked over at Nashi with magenta eyes before it disappeared into the forest. "What was that? Should I be extremely worried about a wild animal living here?"

A throaty chuckle. 'Nay, Little One. You needn't worry. But I believe you have people waiting patiently for you.'

Nashi swallowed and looked up at Cael who gave her a reassuring nod and the translucent. Taking a breath, Nashi did not step forward. No. In this place, she did not need to walk to get from point A to point B. She watched as the meadow swirled around her and Cael until she was at the edge of the forest. While Nashi wanted to take the first step, she noticed Býleistr sat down. "What are you doing?"

'He cannot go any farther with you,' Seraphim conveyed. 'He may roam freely in the meadows but not in the forest. He will wait here for your return.'

"I see." Nashi rubbed Býleistr's snout. "Thanks for coming this far. I'll see you soon." She looked up at Cael and when he nodded at her, she knew it was time.

First step into the forest, she knew something about it was different and she was right. She looked up to see, while sunlight peeked through the canopy, a gentle snow washed the forest. She raised her hand to catch a snowflake, but it dispersed the moment it touched her. Turning around, she saw that the meadow was gone and she and Cael had been moved deep into the forest. She needed no other words as she led Cael further. Their venture into these beautiful snow-drizzled woods was nothing too exciting. She heard the soothing sound of birds chirping and singing, of paw steps scurrying, of a river in the distant flirting with each babble. But as Nashi and Cael walked, Nashi noticed through the corner of her eyes she saw creatures made of white and black energy that kept their distance. Not out of fear. Out of respect, she felt. Their magenta and cerulean eyes gazed at her in something akin to admiration. Like she was a goddess walking amongst them. Even the forest recognized her and parted itself to leave a clear path for herself and for Cael. Like the woods did not want to disturb her from her mission.

"Hey, Cael, Seraphim?"

'Yes, Little One?'

Cael squeezed her hand.

"So this forest is the connection I have with Skade and Gary?"

'What makes you say that?'

"It's just… The feeling I had earlier when we stepped into the forest," Nashi explained. "I felt like I was in my soul back in the meadow. But here, the energy is…different. It's almost like… No… It is like a Unison Raid back home. The thing is, Unison Raids aren't as common as they used to be. Sure, two Mages can combine their attacks, but a true Unison Raid is more than that. It needs a deep trust with someone in such a way, you can't explain it. The attack isn't just two people attacking. The attack is one thing. It's a whole new energy. And this? It feels like it."

A pause.

'Yes, Little One. This forest is the shape your connection with the human and the Devil took,' Seraphim confirmed. 'As to why? I cannot say nor can I explain. Perhaps this form is what you, the human, and the Devil feel most comfortable with. Perhaps this is a telling sign in regard to your personalities.'

"A sign?"

'Yes. Connections and souls take on forms that even the mortal may not be able to explain. It is quite common that those who are one with their own soul may not be able to explain the reason for their soul's perception for decades at a time. A soul's perception is defined in it entirely only when a mortal understands themselves in the most intimate way.'

"I see." Nashi bowed her head. "I understand."

Cael fluttered a wave of warning.

Nashi's head tipped up.

Hickory widened.

The forest had parted to show the secret it had been keeping. A log cabin had settled in a clearing with fresh snow piled before it like a moat. Smoke puffed from the chimney and it was obvious the lights were one. Someone was home. That much was obvious. Nashi's eyes shimmered as she recognized the log cabin. 'Gary… Skade…' She looked over at Cael. "Cael, would you wait here for me?" She looked down at the burning symbol of the Seraph. "You too, Seraphim. You might think what I do isn't exactly what a rep for Angels should be doing."

Both Cael and Seraphim shared their amusement with her as the symbol peeled itself from Nashi's chest to form the egg-shaped soul Nashi had collected all those months ago. It hovered by Cael and Cael moved to hold Seraphim without hesitation. 'We will wait outside,' Seraphim assured. 'Once all is said and done, we will guide you into your dreams.'

Nashi nodded and softened. "Thank you." She turned back to the log cabin. 'Okay. Here I go, then. Just to check in on them.' She stepped to the log cabin, and it felt like the entire forest fell silent in bated breath, waiting for what would happen next. The steps creaked a little under her weight, but that was to be expected. The snow did not bring its normal cold. It brought a familiar cold. She passed through the porch and noticed the twin rockers. Standing before the door, she reached for the handle, then hesitated, then went to knock, then hesitated.

'Do I just go in or…?' Nashi cursed. 'Dammit. I'm not good at this!'

STEP… STEP…

'I just…' Nashi shifted on her feet. 'I'm so nervous.'

STEP… STEP…

Nashi shut her eyes. 'God, this is so stupid…!' She messed with her hair. 'Ugh! Why am I acting like a stupid teenage girl? I'm just checking in on them, not proposing for marriage! God, I'm such a—!'

"Angel…"

Nashi opened her eyes, frozen. Mouth open, she turned around…

Hickory watered and clashed with surprised cerulean.

Gary stood there in a breezy shirt and shorts with his black hair tussled. Skade stood behind him in his Human Form with his white hair longer than before and those icy-blues as vibrant as ever. Dressed in just harem pants, he looked like a natural in this environment. But the moment Skade met Nashi's eyes, a hardness coated over him and he turned away. Nashi had no time to stop him when he launched from the steps and broke into a wild sprint to disappear into the forest.

Hurt overwhelmed Nashi. 'Skade…'

"Don't mind him." Gary came up the remaining steps and his knuckles brushed her cheek. "Let him have his tantrum. He'll come back when he's learned manners."

"No, don't be upset with him." Nashi closed her eyes against Gary's touch. "This is my fault—"

"Angel, stop that." Gary pulled her close and kissed her forehead before hugging her. "None of this will ever be your fault," he hissed fiercely. "I'll deal with Skade for making you feel like it is—"

"No, don't." Nashi pulled away to give him as much of a smile as she could muster. "It's okay. Really."

Gary looked like he wanted to argue, but he nodded in reluctant defeat. "Yes, Angel." He tucked her hair behind her ears. "I've missed you so much," he said in fervent whisper. "It feels like I haven't touched you in years."

"I know."

Gary blinked. "You…do?"

"Yes," Nashi laughed as she covered his hand with her own against her cheek. "It has." Her cheeks pinkened, but rather than brush everything she said off, she only softly suggested, "C'mon. Let's go inside. We have so much to talk about it."

Gary got out of his shock to beam. "Sure!" He moved past her to open the door, but he did not usher her in. Instead, he scooped her up. "I should be carrying you over the threshold, right, Angel?"

"Put me down, you perverted dog!" Nashi growled. "I am not your wife!"

Gary chuckled as he ignored her and carried her anyways. "That's my Angel." He did not put her down until they were a sizeable distance into the living room.

Nashi huffed. "Idiot dog," she muttered. Taking a look around, she was a bit astonished to see changes. While the log cabin she had visited in Gary's soul resembled this one much the same, there were noticeable additions and changes. The room was tailored to a contrasting theme. Pinks and blues and whites and blacks were everywhere, though hints of violet would pop up as though to remind everyone this was a blended home. She relaxed when she felt Gary's arms around her and his chin drop at her neck. "I can't believe we did this," she murmured to him. "The forest, this cabin… It's beautiful."

"You did this, Angel," Gary corrected with care. "We wouldn't be here if you hadn't given Skade a name—if you hadn't given us a chance to show the world we aren't the monsters they see us as… The monsters I always thought I was…and the disease I used to think Skade was." His head turned to plant a kiss beneath her ear and he smiled at her lighthearted giggle. "Thank you, Angel, for not giving up on us then…and thank you for not giving up on us now."

"You never gave up on me." Nashi twisted in his arms to take his face into her hands and both hitched a breath when summer collided with winter. "I would never give up on either one of you. I'm sorry if I ever made you feel that way. And…" Her eyes fell down then drew back up to his. "And I'm sorry I took so long."

Gary's eyebrows slammed together. "Angel? What are you talking about?"

Nashi opened her mouth to explain, but her resolve crackled. "Can we, um…? Can we sit? We should sit." She guided him over to the main couch which was a nice navy blue with pink accent pillows. She was set to sit beside him, but Gary had other ideas and pulled Nashi into his lap. And, for once, she did not complain, only let her blush deepen.

"Angel, what's wrong?" Gary asked. "What's the matter?"

"N-N-Nothing." Nashi cursed herself for stammering. "It's just… Well, I…" Deep inhale. Slow release. 'Remember Tesla's words. Communication. Complete and naked honesty.' In a clearer voice, she started, "I'm sorry it took so long for me to realize everything you said was true." Guilt held her eyes. "All this time… I just thought you were another guy infatuated with me or you were just in-lust with me after we started having sex, but that's on me. I hurt you trying to protect myself and I'm sorry I did that. You didn't deserve that—"

Gary cupped her chin and turned her to him. "Angel—"

"No, Gary, please let me finish," Nashi beseeched. "Because I'm really trying to say it now before I start losing my nerve."

Gary yielded and nodded.

"You didn't deserve having your feelings hurt like that by a person you care about so much," Nashi told him with such raw apology and shame on her part. "It doesn't matter if I didn't feel the same way. I had no right to do that to you. And I'm so sorry I did. All this time, you've been so brave in telling me how you feel, even if it meant I hurt you. You didn't care. You just kept going and trying." Another shaky breath. "And I really want to be as brave as you right now." Raw hickory clashed with amazed cerulean. "I…care about you, Gary," Nashi confessed, but then she cursed. "No, that's not right. I mean it is right, but…! I'm not saying what I really mean and—!"

"Pfft."

Nashi narrowed her eyes when Gary threw back his head to laugh, eyebrow twitching, and a tick mark murdering her temple. "The Hell is so funny to you, you stupid dog?"

"Nothing." Gary quieted his laughs into subtle chuckles. "I promise I'm listening to everything you're saying, Angel. Please keep going."

Nashi gave him one last glare, but when he gave her a promise of innocence in his look, she sighed and closed her eyes. "Look, the thing is I…" Her lips trembled. "I…" Her hands clenched to fists. "I…" She tensed and decided to let it out. "I don't hate you!"

Silence.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Wow…

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Nashi's eyes opened as she looked down in complete mortification. 'Shit. No. That's not what I wanted to say! Nashi, you idiot! How the Hell do you mess up a confession this badly with the one guy you actually like? I even said it in my mind! I like him! See, that was so easy? The Hell is my mouth trying to do, shame me for the rest of my life?'

"Pfft."

Nashi looked up to see Gary laughing even more hysterically. Her eyebrow twitched. "Glad to see I'm such a joker to you," she sniffed. She did not know whether to cry or to get angry. "Have fun laughing at me." She moved to get up, but Gary held her in his lap. "Let me go, you stupid dog! You're making fun of me!"

"I'm not, Angel, I promise!" Gary got his amusement under control, but he could not hold back his smile. "Angel is just so cute trying to confess her feelings for me is all.'

"Don't make me kick your ass, you ungrateful dog!"

"And besides…"—his eyes shone with all the patient love in the world—"it wouldn't feel right if Angel confessed to me now. Not properly. I don't want Angel to confess to me here. I want to hear those words in the real world." He let his forehead rest against her. "I want to hear those words when I'm a free man. So right then and there, I can tell the whole world I am completely yours and yours alone because you chose me."

Nashi quietly laughed. "You stupid dog," she said with the affection clear. "We chose each other, okay?" She nuzzled into him. "Thank you for waiting all this time. But are you sure you want to wait a little longer?"

"Yes," Gary assured and his lips kissed the corner of her mouth. "But I'll treasure what you told me now. That I don't have Angel's hate, only your care. Those words will get me through the trial and anything that comes with it."

Nashi frowned and pulled away to look up at him. "Hey. I won't rest until you're back home with your family and friends." The resolve was clear. The determination was ironclad. "You don't deserve to be in jail. Neither one of you do. I promised myself I'll do what it takes to get you both free and I mean it."

"Even after today?" Gary questioned and watched as Nashi's eyes fell away. "Angel, you're sacrificing too much just for us. We'll be fine. We've survived much worse."

"But you deserve to live." Nashi cut her eyes back to his and let him see the heat in her stare. "I told Kyler and I'm telling you: I alone will handle the consequences of what happened today and whatever happens afterward. I'm not afraid of being questioned. I'm not afraid of what will happen because…well…" Her hand brushed against his cheek. "As long as I'm fighting for you, then I can't be afraid. You've protected me time and time and again. Now it's my turn to be your protector."

"Angel…" Gary nodded. "Okay, then. Show these people who you are. Show them you are Nashi Dragneel, a strong woman who puts no boundaries on who a heart should belong to. Show them you aren't just the face of the Angel Princess. Show them you are an Angel herself, a savior to a Devil. Show them what I've seen in you all along."

"I will," Nashi promised. "Thanks for believing in me."

"I will always believe in you, Angel," Gary promised.

Nashi relaxed indefinitely. "Wow… Talking feels good." Then, it all hit her and she ended up hitting Gary. "Hold on a second, no, we are not done yet," she gnashed. She put a finger on his nose and his eyes zeroed in on it with slight fear. "I'm onto you, mister. I've finally got you figured out. All this redirecting the conversation back to me bullshit? Yeah, I know all about it." She hmphed and turned away from him. "Honestly, the nerve. How could you not tell me you were friends with Jax? Do you know how long it took me to meet his girlfriend again? She could've been giving me all this amazing advice months ago, but no, you had to get all stingy and not even tell me you and Jax were close!"

Gary blinked as he tried to figure out what was happening. "Yeah, um… Jax and I have been friends for a while." But even answering that, he was still perplexed. "I don't talk about myself because I'm not that interesting. Besides, I'm only interested in hearing about Angel's life—"

"Wrong." Nashi whirled around and put a finger pressed to Gary's lips for quiet. "Here is what is going to happen the second you're free, so listen and listen closely. I've been staying at your place while you're away. We're coming back to your place and we're talking about you. No more trying to get me to talk about myself. We're going to talk about you and your interests and your friends. And you are not getting out of it, you hear me?"

Gary gently removed her finger from his mouth only to say, "You've been staying at my place? Wait, wait!" he cried when Nashi moved to punch him. In a sigh, he muttered, "I just don't like to talk about myself. It's odd to me. There's nothing that fascinating about me. In comparison to you, my life isn't that exciting."

Nashi blinked. "You're kidding me, right?" she asked, incredulous. "Gary, you've got to be joking. Your life is way cool! Now that I've been staying at your place, I didn't even notice how much you put into your artwork." Sheepishly, she confessed, "A few of your clients did call the condo and your Compact and I had to answer. Lane let your clients know you'd be away for a while, so I had to do a few of your deliveries for your paintings. All your work… It's so hypnotic. What's that mural you're doing on your bathroom ceiling?"

"It's, um…" Gary colored. "Well, it's in dedication to you."

"To me?" Nashi echoed.

Gary nodded. "Yeah. Most of the mural work you see on my walls is either to you, my family, my friends, or something I saw on a job that stuck to me. I normally take pictures or sketch out some stuff when I'm in the field and then I come home and paint them. My clients just happen to like the work I do and I make money from it."

"Uh, yeah ya do! Why didn't you tell me your paintings were worth so much?" Nashi narrowed her eyes. "Did you think I was going to be a gold digger or something?"

"No, nothing like that!" Gary quickly shot down. "I just…" He scratched the back of his head. "I don't know. I didn't think it was something that would impress you. It's just painting. Anyone can pick up a brush and paint, so I… I didn't think it was worth going into detail about."

Nashi wanted to loudly tell him how wrong he was, but when she saw the look on her face, she stopped. 'He's really insecure about this,' she realized. 'Is this why he doesn't talk about anything about himself? He's afraid I won't be impressed?' This time, it was Nashi who cupped his chin and turned him to her. "Gary, whether something impresses me or not is irreverent," she soothed. "It's your life. I don't want this partnership to be one-sided. I want to know everything about you too. I want to know…"—she putzed around until she found her wording—"what you like to eat for breakfast on Sundays. And, like…! I want to know what you watch after a long day. I want to know your least favorite mission you ever took and how your latest interview went."

"You do?" Gary whispered as if he was too afraid if he spoke any louder, this dreamlike reality would all fade to just that—a dream.

"Yes," Nashi breathed. "But, for the record, your art impresses me very much so. Especially the one painting you, um…"—cheeks darkened—"made for one of your neighbors and her husband."

Gary lifted an eyebrow and did not even need to think about the painting in question. "Yeah?" He wrapped his arms around her. "Angel likes erotic paintings, huh? If Angel wants, we could always do one together."

Nashi cleared her throat to say in a stable voice, "Since I've been told I need to be as honest as possible, I…would want that, but only if no one ever saw the painting."

"Of course no one would," Gary promised. "Anything painting I do of us is just for us. No one else." He searched her eyes. "But would you really be okay with that?"

Nashi nodded. "Yeah, I would. But I don't want you to cut anything out. I want you to paint everything about me." Meaningful words, so trusting.

Gary swallowed, but the pride in his eyes said it all. "Anything you want, Angel," he breathed. He shifted her closer and their eyes fell shut as Gary ran his nose beside her and dabbed a light kiss to her upper lip. "We have so much more to talk about."

"Yes." Nashi hissed the word when Gary placed a kiss on her jaw and his hand went to caress her breast. "A lot more." A moan escaped her when Gary aimed a hard kiss for her throat. "And we will, but…"

"I know." He growled the words into her skin before he left behind a chilling kiss. "We'll talk when I'm out, when we're back at my place, in my bed."

"Y-Yeah… Ah…" Nashi squirmed and her back arched when Gary tweaked her nipple over her dress. "B-But not now." She pulled away from him, their breaths out of synch, hearts racing, and eyes ablaze. "I just need you."

Gary bobbed his head. "Are you sure?"

"I am," Nashi whispered. "I know we need to talk more, but… I just… I need to feel you." A heat backed her eyes, but there was that crucial desperation and need. "I just… I need to remember you only. J-Just you. No one else. Please, Gary. Just your touch."

Gary knew how symbolic those words were and a myriad of emotions flirted with his eyes only to settled on love and understanding. He kissed away the first tear she shed. "I will always want you to only remember my touch and no one else's," he breathed into her skin. "I know I'm not your first, but I plan to be your last. When you shower, you'll remember when I kissed your stomach and thanked you for being the bravest person I'll ever know. When you're sitting, you'll remember when I was on my knees, at your mercy, and worshipped the only Angel I ever want to know. And when you're back in the real world, in my bed, you'll remember every time I took you, every time I couldn't resist being seduced by you, the only person capable of bringing me to my knees."

Nashi knew her cheeks were wet with tears and her heart was her in her throat, but she did not care. "Gary, please," she choked out. "Kiss me. I-I-I need…"

"I know." And he kissed her.

Moving in a soul was one thing, but to have two people move about so intimately in a place they shared that was intertwined with their souls was another thing. No fear or death existed in such a place. Worries were limited and serenity was nurtured and cherished. But even more so when it came to that thick and never-ending connection two souls shared. With each touch, that connection deepened and widened itself until those two souls were wound so tightly, it was hard to distinguish the souls as two separate entities and easier to see them as one sound soul. No more was it a me and you. No more was there two. There was only us and one.

The passion that arose was nothing like how books and movies and fairy tales portrayed through the beloved lovemaking wording. The tears and the shaking were there, but so were the whispered praises and promises of affection and valor. Hands clamored at times and, yet at others, hands were guided and intertwined knowingly. The kisses could be light, but they could be hard and desperate too. It did not matter these two beings—the Angel and the Devil—had come to know each intimately in the real world. In their connection that lived in the depths of their souls, that passion intensified. Exposure here left a raw scar in comparison to the real world. Nothing could be hidden in the soul. What was tried to be hidden only revealed itself more to the beholder. No feeling was left suppressed. Not here. Not in a place that had manifested because of feelings.

It was not like the real world where there was a temporary high that was hit with a sweaty low. That simply did not exist here. The further the touches and kisses and whispers and grunts and moans took them, the more they gave in to the addiction, that undying need to tamper with their connection and push their bond for more, more, more—until they were consumed in each other. The forest might hear their throes of passion, but there was no shame. There was no humility. There were no hisses to be quiet. This was the place they could be themselves. This was the place where their inhibitions and emotions became unhinged and interwoven.

Skin to skin.

Pant to pant.

Kiss for kiss.

Summer and winter.

They knew their passion would physically come to an end when their bodies had been consumed in such the physical duress of their connection, but their emotions had been scrubbed and ripped open to bleed out and fan out. When all was said and done, they lay together, barren from clothing and feelings bare, wrapped up in the other with their lips lazily finding the others or missing and affectionally kissing flesh. What felt like hours had passed between them in the world they had created—that an Angel had created to save her Devil from despair—but the time did not bother them. Matching smiles and eyes drunk with adoration, they held each other as they laid on pillows and a blanket on the floor without a care in the world, a quilt to cover them.

"I love you, Angel," murmured Gary into her shoulder.

"I care for you," Nashi whispered back into his throat. "Don't ever forget that."

"Never." Gary managed another kiss to her neck. "That was incredible."

"It was," Nashi agreed. "I know I said 'no' when we were in our souls, but it was because it felt…wrong. But here? It feels…"

"I know." Gary kissed her upper lip. "We should do this more often."

"We will when you come home," Nashi laughed. "We'll have to save this for a special occasion. But your place is fair game." She laughed even more as Gary peppered her face in silly kisses. "On second thought, I take it back. If you had it your way, you'd chain me to the bed and we wouldn't leave for days."

"And that's a bad thing?" Gary chuckled.

Nashi snorted. "If you don't want my papa to kill you, then, I guess not."

"Fair point."

Nashi twisted, and Gary automatically laid on his back so she could scramble up and nuzzle her head under his chin and splay a hand onto his chest. "Gary," she murmured. "I know it's weird, but how come you never told me about Jax?"

Gary grinned. "I don't think now is the best time to talk about other men with me, Angel."

"Oh, hush." She swatted his chest. "C'mon, this is serious. He sounded like…like he really knows you. And not just the front you put on, but like he knows you. And I guess hearing him say so much about you made me realize how much I don't know about you." She looked up when Gary sighed. "So…?"

Gary fluttered a hand down her head and combed her hair. "I've known Jax since before he and Tesla got together, so when we were both teenagers," he explained. "He pretty much had his sights on Tesla when he saw her, but the man is a lot more aggressive than people give him credit for."

"Really."

Gary chuckled at Nashi's flat tone. "Yeah, I know it's hard to believe since he looks calm all the time and he normally is. But with his sights set on Tesla, he was a lot more… forward. Or, well, he wanted to be. Tesla prides herself on being pretty upfront, but Jaxton used to be worse than her. I told him he had to cool it or else he'd scare the poor girl, but I think he took it too literally."

"So she says," Nashi snorted. "But it's nice you were there for him and rooted for him and Tesla. You guys really must be good friends."

"As close as Sparkles and I."

That made Nashi's eyes widened. "That close? Seriously?"

Gary nodded. "Yeah. We don't need to hang out all the time to be as close as we are. We just have a big understanding and we built off of that." He rubbed his cheek. "Jaxton was the one who thought I wasn't being too forward with you. He told me I was being far too tame."

Nashi's eyes twitched. "He thought you stalking me and constantly annoying me and telling everyone you loved me wasn't enough?" 'What sort of guy is Tesla dating that that is considered 'tame' to him?'

Gary snickered. "No, but Jaxton has a very…different way about love and life. Maybe that's why we bonded." Cerulean softened. "We get what it's like to have this…other life. And every day, we just wonder when everything will snap and the judgment we've been fearing comes."

Nashi sat up to stroke Gary's jaw. "Don't worry," she soothed. "I can handle it, I promise."

Gary raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure?"

Nashi hummed and nodded.

Gary closed his eyes. 'Since I can't say anything else… Jax… Forgive me for this, bro.' He took a breath. "Both Jaxton and I are into BDSM."

Silence.

Maybe the wind whistled with how awkwardly silent it was…

A shadow covered Nashi's eyes. "You're…what?"

"Yeah." Gary offered a nervous smile. "Both Jaxton and I are into BDSM—"

"No, no, I heard you the first time," Nashi shushed him as she swallowed. "It's just, um… Are you talking about that thing that's in movies with Stockholm syndrome and whipping people and tormenting them even when they say, 'no'—?"

"No!" Gary shot up and rolled so they were a tangle of limbs together and he held her tight. He did not have to guess; he knew she was panicking. "God, no, Angel, no. Nothing like how books and movies make it out to be," he promised fervidly. "No, it's, uh… Well…"

"Daddy."

Gary blanked. "What."

"Tesla called Jaxton 'Daddy'," Nashi realized. "That's, like, a BDSM thing, right? She wasn't just messing around. She calls him 'Daddy' in bed when they're doing kinky shit? Is that what you want me to call you in bed too?" The conjured moans hit her ears and the secondhand embarrassment made her cringe. 'Tesla, I love you, but 'Daddy'? Really?'

Gary internally sweated. 'Oh, no, this isn't going well.' He tried to rope Nashi back to him. "Some submissives call their dominants 'Daddy', but not all of them," he carefully explained. "For Jaxton and Tesla, it works for them, but, no, I don't want you to call me that. I respect that dynamic, but that's not one I want to have with you." He smiled when Nashi looked comically relieved.

But then she tensed up again. "Wait, hold on. So… if you're into BDSM and kinky stuff…" She gulped. "Are you going to expect me to be into it too?"

"No." Gary shook his head. "Not at all. It's not a lifestyle suited to everyone."

"Then…" Nashi kept her gaze down. "If you got bored of me—"

"Angel, I know where you're going with this and I want you to stop it," Gary quieted her. "There's nothing wrong with what we have. BDSM shouldn't replace anything we have now. It would only add to it. But it's nothing we ever have to do and nothing I want to do without you, okay?"

"And if I wanted to try…?"

"Then, we'd have to have a serious conversation about it," Gary told her with gentle certainty. "Nothing about this is just something I'd have us dive into. This would need some serious discussion about what you're comfortable with, what your boundaries and limits are, what you prefer—"

"But what about you?" Nashi inquired. "Aren't you a…? What's the word? A dominant?"

"For the most part, yeah," Gary admitted. "But I like being submissive too. Or, well, I've had a few dreams about being submissive to you only. But either way, you still make a lot of the decisions we'd do. You'd have a lot more power than me."

Nashi grimaced. "I don't know if I like that," she conveyed. "With us, I'd rather we be equals."

That surprised Gary. "'Equals'?"

"Well, yeah, dummy." Nashi ducked her head beneath his chin to hide her embarrassment. "We're partners. I shouldn't have any more power than you do. So that makes us equals. And you're not allowed to try and change my mind or anything. I said what I said. We're equal partners in this, even if you're S-Class, got it?"

Gary blinked, then he softened and nuzzled the top of her head with his chin. "Yes, Angel," he agreed in an exhale. "We're equal partners. As you command."

Relief filled Nashi. "And Gary?"

"Yes, Angel?"

"I can't wait for you to hear my confession either."

Gary held her tighter. "Sleep, my Angel," he soothed. "We both have a big day tomorrow."

"But…"—she yawned as her eyes fastened shut—"I don't want to leave you all alone… And Skade hasn't come back."

"We're never alone," Gary whispered to her as a hand strayed to rub her back. "Skade and I have each other. We're family. And you'll always have us just like we have you. None of us ever walk alone." He kissed her hair and hummed, but it sounded more like a purr. "I promise we'll see each other soon. Thank you for waiting for me."

Nashi sighed through her nose. "No problem," she slurred. "You've waited for me… I'll wait for you… That's how…we'll live…" It was so hard to stay conscious. The exhaustion was breaking her down and trying to draw her away and back to the real world. She was not ready to go. But she was so tired…

"I'll wait for you every day for as long as it takes," promised Gary, but his voice sounded so far away even if his touch of winter was so close. "Remember, Angel…"

DRIP.

She was leaving the connection.

"…I love you."

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

DROP.

In the real world, Nashi fell prey to sleep and to dreams. Darkness flooded between nonsensical dreams about talking dogs and J-Pop, but that wintry touch lingered as though to ward off any nightmares—like Gary himself was shielding her and holding her. Mouth parted, she lay in peace and in slumber.

SLIDE…

Býleistr was back and cracked his neck. "Air is thick with anticipation tonight," he muttered. After shutting the door, he glanced over at Nashi. She's resting easy now. That's good. I was there briefly, but I'm glad she and the Wolverine spoke. They both needed that. He fell into his Cat Form and hopped up on the bed with a healthy stretch and yawn. Perimeter's clear. Virgo should be able to take it from here and my traps are still in place. He wanted to circle around and cuddle next to Nashi's head when a scent hit him that had him bolt upright and his nostrils flare.

No… It couldn't be…. He grew back into his Hybrid Form (Nashi snorted right through the bed dipping considerably) and allowed two fingers to peel back the comforter…

Wild oranges widened.

But…how…? Býleistr gritted his teeth. The Wolverine is locked up. That…shouldn't be possible. But my nose doesn't lie. It's him. But it was just so incredibly hard to believe.

Because while Nashi lay there, peace unto her, sated and satisfied, it was not what was on the surface that had startled Býleistr. But the male cum dripping down her legs and who it belonged to—Gary.

Tesla sighed as she parked her Lacrima Car in the underground garage and cut the engine. She had decided for a high ponytail today with her natural hair and, considering the cold, she was glad she wore thermal leggings beneath her cream sweater dress and belt. She grabbed her Dragon King bag and her instrument bag before she headed out and locked her car. "What a day," she sighed. "I can't wait to get out of the boots and into my comfy slippers." She strutted her way to the elevator and pressed her knob to grant her access. As she went inside and pressed for the lobby, she wriggled out her Compact.

Thank god all those parents and my students were understanding. Lessons will pick back up a week before the second semester starts. Tesla drifted through her ⟪ Calendar ⟫. And my boss is incredible. I can start working after the twenty-fifth. She pouted. I know I should be happy, but it just sucks I have to work when Kwanzaa starts. But at least she agreed to my private reservation for Wednesday. She tapped on Wednesday to see the event she had scheduled:

Event Details

Meeting with Zelda

Restaurant Meido

Wednesday, December 22, XXXX

From 1PM to 2:30PM

DING!

Tesla stepped off at the lobby and passed a smile to one of the receptionists. The lobby was nothing too luxurious, but it was definitely of a higher standard than most apartments. Polished marble floors with a hand-crafted chandelier to give it light. A few other residents were downstairs and she upturned her nose at the five young men who paid attention to her. As she went to the mailroom, she told herself, This might be a bad idea, but this will give you some answers. Maybe some clarity for her too. For all I know, she could just be a psycho or something and she's mourning her cousin's death to this extreme. That's normal, right? She brought out her mail, but she frowned when she had an unmarked letter.

Shrugging, Tesla locked her mailbox and went about her way to the elevator. I'll just tell her nicely she got me confused on Wednesday. And I'll help her through her grief. That's all. Nothing more. I don't need to know more about whatever she has going on. She pressed the up button on the elevator and got in the moment it opened its jaws. Pressing her floor, she waited as the elevator carried her up. Bringing out her Compact, she went through her ⟪ Calendar ⟫ again. But at least I start up therapy again. She stopped on a date:

Event Details

Psych Appointment w/ Doctor Orr

Saturday, December 26, XXXX

From 10 AM to 11 AM

DING!

Tesla stepped off on her floor and went to her apartment, the first door to her right. "He seems promising, but we'll have to see. Huh?"

A package had been left outside of her door in a recyclable cooler material. Tesla stooped down to see who had sent it to her and smiled. "Jang-ta…" She stood back up to press her other knob onto the locking mechanism and a green light flashed. Opening her door, she pushed the cooler into her apartment with a foot and called, "Alexis, I'm home!"

The living room, dining room, and kitchen lights came to light and her LV on her unit turned on to the news. "Welcome home, Mamacita," came perky greeting of a man with a Josean accent. "You have twenty more minutes left on the timer for your insta-pot. The oven has been preheated to four-hundred-and twenty-five-degrees."

Tesla was happy with her two-bedroom apartment. With her pay of being a sous chef and a flute teacher on top of the stipend she received from school, she knew she could afford more, but why would she live outside her means? Her entire apartment was decorated in anime and Magia paraphernalia with no shame. Taking in a deep inhale, she groaned happily as she sat on the padded bench right by her door and took off her boots. "Oh my god, dinner smells so good…!"

Off with the boots and on with the slippers, she set down her bags and mail at the dining table to check on her insta-pot when she caught wind of the news. She frowned as she witnessed the recapture of the Commonwealth of Bellum versus Devil case that had been broadcasted. "Wow… I can't believe they took such a poor creature to court." She was about to turn away when a flash of pink caught her eyes. "Wait… Is that…?"

Tesla approached the LV to bear witness to Nashi on the stand looking as sick as a duck as the attorney wailed questions on her. The LV was muted and the captions were on, but Tesla was focused on Nashi and she gasped when Nashi had lurched and threw up onto the floor. "Oh my god… What the Hell?" Why was she testifying? She took out her Compact and went to Nashi's contact, but she hesitated. I want to text her to make sure she's all right, but…what do I even say? Deciding quick, she bit the bullet and hammered a text message:

« Hi Nashi! I saw you on the news today. I haven't watched everything, but I just wanted to check-in and see how you were doing. I hope you're in a safe place with someone you trust. If you give me a name, I will definitely go mad day on whoever you need me to. Text me back only when you feel you can »

With a sigh, Tesla abandoned the LV to go back for the cooler. She brought the package up and into her kitchen to take out the actual package on her kitchen counter. Ripping open the cardboard box, she smiled when she saw the large bottled jar corked and filled with thick milk inside. A note was inside:

Call me when you get this

I love you, my little girl

Tesla did a little dance of excitement as she got her Compact and immediately knew who to call. When the line connected, she giggled and said, "You need to stop with all these gifts or you're going to give me a complex."

A loose chuckle. "I know I already give you a complex. That's what I spank you for."

"Hey!" Tesla pouted. "Rude!" But she broke into a smile when she heard Jaxton's laugh and placed her Compact on speaker to put on the counter as she tended to the milk. "But, seriously, thanks. I didn't realize I was running so low. Can't you just give me the name of whatever farm you get this stuff from? This milk is amazing."

"I have to have some secrets," Jaxton reminded in good humor. "And only one full glass a day. No more."

Tesla snorted as she put the bottled jar next to her other one that looked like it only had a full glass left inside. "Yes, Daddy."

"Baby girl."

Tesla rolled her eyes. "Yeah, yeah, I know. One glass a day. Bossy." She took out the rice vinegar and the container for the twin salmon fillets before she closed the door. "How was your day? Are you still coming over tonight for dinner?" She reached for the pantry to pull out some rice. "I'm making lemon dill salmon, rice, and potatoes…!"

A weary sigh. "That sounds lovely, baby girl, but I might be a little late to dinner."

Tesla frowned. "Oh." She took out her rice cooker and her colander. "Everything okay?"

"Just some extra work I need to finish. Nothing too serious." Another sigh then a pop indicated cracked joints. "But it's been a long day. I've missed you. Did you get everything settled?"

Tesla began to wash the rice. "I did. I start work on the twenty-sixth and I was able to make the reservation for Wednesday. And I have therapy after my shift." Finished washing the rice, she shook out the excess water.

"Did you like Doctor Orr? I'm sorry if I overstepped talking to Nashi—"

"You didn't, Jax," Tesla assured as she put the rice in the inner rice cooker pan then went for her measuring cup. "The Com consultation went well and I liked him enough to schedule our first session. He said we could keep it to Com-calls until I felt comfortable coming to the office which was nice." She poured in the water and the rice vinegar before shutting the lid and fiddling with the buttons. "Speaking of Nashi, did you know she was going to be part of that huge criminal case today?"

"I did. She's very brave for speaking out as she did even with the lash back she could get. I admire her."

"What even happened?" Tesla went to the insta-pot and checked on the slow-roasted potatoes.

"She announced she is in an interspecies relationship with the Devil they are accusing."

That sentence made Tesla stutter in her movements. "Really? I thought she and Gary…?" She shook her head as she crouched down to get out a pan. "Doesn't matter. She really is brave to announce that on live lacrimavision. I'll have to congratulate her."

"You're not surprised? Or disgusted?"

Tesla wrenched out a small pan from the lower cabinet. "I mean sure, yeah, I'm surprised, but it's her life. If she's happy and Gary's fine with it, I don't see the point of getting upset. And it was said the Devil is a sentient magical creature, right? So who cares?"

A pause. "You really are something different, baby girl."

Tesla smiled to herself. "Thanks. I try." She pulled out the aluminum foil. "So when should I expect to see you break into my apartment via mirror? Or am I finally allowed to sleep alone for the first time since we got together?"

"Not happening," Jaxton deadpanned.

"Clingy," Tesla teased back. "But, seriously. A time?"

"I should be done in the next two hours or so." Jaxton must have heard the noise of disappointment Tesla tried and failed to suppress for he said, "I'm sorry, Tesla. I know it's not ideal, but I have to get this done."

Tesla oiled down the aluminum foil that coated the pan and put both marinate fillets onto it. "No, I know, I know." She opened the oven and slid the pan onto the middle rack. "You have to do your important Magic stuff and I will always respect what you do. Just come here when you can, okay? I'll keep your dinner in the oven so it's nice and fresh for you."

"Thanks, baby girl. Eat dinner, get out of those clothes, and do me a favor?"

"Anything within reason." Tesla set the timer to fifteen minutes.

"I might have left a present for you on your counter in your bathroom. I bought some of those vegan-friendly bath salts and bubbles and exfoliator you liked from The C and W Shop. Take a bath. Listen to the playlist I made you for bath time. And I got you that vanilla lavender lotion you liked from that place too. Use that. Brush your teeth and wear my shirt to bed, okay?"

Tesla had moved to her bathroom with Compact in hand and her grin was radiant when she opened the box from The C&W Shop and saw bottles awaiting her. "You found time to do all this for me today?"

"I had a feeling work would take me over, but I wanted to make sure my girlfriend was taken care of. Do you like them?"

Tesla sniffled.

Jaxton began to laugh. "Don't tell me you're crying…!"

"Shut up, you sentimental asshat," Tesla mumbled. She put her Compact on the counter to take out one of the bottles of bubble bath. "I hit the jackpot with you. You're lucky you have a big dick or else I'd seriously consider you were compensating."

Jaxton laughed even more. "Only compensating that I'm missing out on dinner with you."

A devious plan made Tesla smirk. "I know the perfect way for you to hurry your ass back to my place and almost every idea I have includes me taking selfies nekked." She laughed when Jaxton groaned. "What? It's just so you see what you're missing. I don't see the problem in that."

"Of course you don't," Jaxton grunted. "Brat."

"You could just ignore my messages." Tesla moved out of the bathroom and into her bedroom. A big dresser and a four-poster queen bed and an LV hanging on the wall, but the entire wall was predominantly covered in posters and artwork bought from conventions with signatures to boot. Throwing her compact on the bed, shed her jacket and her belt. "I mean it's not my fault if you open a text from me and it happens to be a nude selfie of my bare—"

Jaxton growled. "You're pushing it."

"Then, you better hurry home and punish me," Tesla tittered as she began getting out of her sweater dress. A ping came through the moment her dress was off and she looked over at her Compact to see a text message from Julia came in that read:

⌜MESSAGES

Juju

Do you have time to call in a few? ⌟

"Júlia wants to talk to me, so I'll let you get back to your boring super-secret work while I get naked and steamy," Tesla sighed, though she suppressed her snicker when Jaxton slammed something and groaned. "Hurry back to me, Jang-ta. I might fall asleep on you."

"You think that'll stop me?"

Tesla could not suppress her amusement. "No. But it was worth a shot." She unhooked her bra and threw it into the laundry basket in her bedroom. "It feels so good for my tits to be out and free…! Should I play with them a little, Daddy?"

"No."

"No?" Tesla simpered. "Aw. Is Daddy getting upset you can't see me?"

"Yes, I am. And you are going to pay for this when I get to your place. But enjoy your freedom while you can. Eat dinner and relax and wait for me in your bed. If you're good, we'll watch Cinderella tonight for your cosplay idea. And if you're my extra good girl, I'll sing along this time."

Tesla brightened. "Really? I'll be—!" Her eyes narrowed. "Oh, you're good… Fine, I'll be good, you evil manipulating bastard, but only for the sake of Magia. But then we have to do the dance too."

"Only if you're good, remember?"

Tesla wriggled out of her leggings and then her panties. "Yeah, yeah, only if I'm good. Go work already, Mista J. Get that bread and then spend it all on me, your perfect little girl."

Jaxton chuckled. "Of course." A beat. "You know I love you, baby girl."

"I love you too, Papi." Tesla went to her dresser to Jaxton's drawer and found a t-shirt.

"I adore you, Tesla."

She paused and her brow furrowed. "I adore you too." She put the Compact on the dresser to get into Jaxton's shirt. "Are we about to go on all Gomez and Morticia Mon Cher Cara Mia 'the old ball and chain'?" When she heard silence after she got on Jaxton's t-shirt, she tapped her Compact to see the call still going. "Jax?"

His voice came back, low and desperately saddened. "I don't want to lose you, Tesla."

"You won't lose me. I mean, of course, outside of the obvious reasons like infidelity and shit, but I'd say you're pretty much in the running for me to leech off you for eternity," Tesla joked.

"Tesla…"

She frowned when she heard something in Jaxton's voice. "Hey, there's no need to worry," she soothed. "I love you. I don't plan to leave you and I hope you don't plan to leave me—"

"Never."

"Well, then, there's nothing to fear," Tesla calmed. "You have me—heart, body, and soul, Jax, just like I have you. Nothing will change that."

"You mean that?"

"Of course I do. I don't say what I don't meant…most of the time, anyways." Tesla raised an eyebrow and transferred her Compact to the other ear. "Should I be worried you're asking me all these questions? Do you have a secret girlfriend and you're trying to feel how I'm feeling before you break the news said secret girlfriend is pregnant or something?"

Jaxton barked a laugh. "Only you would jump to that conclusion," he remarked good-humoredly. "But no, I do not. I have one girlfriend and she's enough for me. And we're not planning to have kids."

"Well, you better love the Hell out of your girlfriend, buddy, because let me tell you something, sis does not play around and can replace you like that," Tesla forewarned in light jest as she went to check on dinner. "I'll see you later tonight, okay?"

"Yes, dear. Wǒ ài nǐ."

"Yo también te quiero. Bai-bai…!"Tesla ended the call with a sigh. "God, I love that man." A buzzer went off and she brightened. "Oh! That should be the potatoes!" And she padded off without a care in the world to what was going on in the outside world beyond her apartment.

°•°•°•°

A Compact dimmed with the loss of the call before it reverted back to its lock screen. A man and a woman took up the frame. The woman had her hair down in its natural curl as she smiled up at the camera and it was obvious she was taking the selfie. The man kept his eyes shut as he nuzzled into her bosom, but it was clear by the smile on his face he was pleased with everything that was happening. A thumb pressed down on the lock screen and the picture moved to show the woman looking down to try and encourage the man and the man opened his eyes for her and petulantly shook his head which made her laugh.

"You still there, White Wolf?"

Compact blackened and locked, it was set aside. A hand reached out unmute. "Yeah. I'm here."

Attention turned back to the task at hand. Lacrima Screens swirled around with information. Files and data and images and videos had been extrapolated to play on separate screens. One held an article regarding the Alvarez Empire and its potentiality to have the records mixed regarding the royal bloodline. Another one spoke about the troubles in Valchestria and information regarding illegal Faction dealings. One had a video on the dark web that spoke about a potential Demon that had struck in the USM. There was a news article about the rally in the City of Metal of unity with neighboring cities. Another was a scholarly article about genetic mutations in Aberrants. And another was a blurred image of something entering the Boundary Forest.

But what was interesting about this was that the other screens conference calls that did not have pictures, only sound. But the titles given were oddities along with their symbols:

VALKYRIE

(Two wings that encompassed a varangian sign.)

WHITE WOLF

(The tipped back head of a howling wolf.)

EUBOEA

(A V-shaped wave with a jagged teardrop.)

SUB-ZERO

(A diamond-shaped crystal with horns.)

CAJUN

(Two overlapping four-pointed stars with a crescent moon encompassing a colored dot.)

PANDEMONIUM

(A demonic Ankh cross with its tipped pointed like a dagger.)

STITCHES

(A large sledgehammer and a harvesting scythe crossed together.)

KARMA

(A circle with two overlapping square inside with a circle within a circle inside those squares.)

WHISTLER

(A shuriken with the yin-yang symbol as its center.)

And the final title:

CHECKMATE

(A black chess piece of the king)

"Good." This came from Checkmate with a strong, feminine voice. "We still have work to do and none of us are leaving until it is finished."

"Man, this totally sucks," said Valkyrie. The voice was an adolescent female. "We gave those special agents what they needed, right? So why are we doing all this extra work? I have stuff to do."

A snort. "Like what?" Sub-Zero challenged. Something about his tone was musical. "Aw, did the boss ruin you gettin' laid tonight, Valkyrie? You certainly sound like you need it."

Valkyrie growled when Euboea's calm voice came through. "Can we continue to focus, please?" A motherly tone, a little older and a lot wiser. "I'd prefer not to waste all night with this. Some of us have families to return to and kids to put to bed."

"Speakin' o' which," Cajun drawled in his lilting tongue, "how goes da missus there, rougarou blanc? And when can I meet the pauvre bête?"

A clenched jaw. "Watch it, Cajun."

"Euboea is right," Checkmate cut in and effectively silenced any and all conversation. "With Morningstar down, we need to pick up the slack. We're nearly finished. Whistler, that means you'll have to take on Morningstar's assignments until he's back. Everyone else, get back to work." Suddenly, everyone outside White Wolf and Checkmate was muted. "White Wolf."

A pause. "Yes, sir?"

Checkmate seemed to gather her thoughts. "You are to fill every contract you are given no matter the costs," she said carefully, "but you are an entity too. You have a family and a lover. If you feel your feelings have made you compromised—"

"Sir, with all due respects, it's because of my feelings that makes me perfect for the job," came cool retort.

Checkmate gently chided, "But your feelings may compromise you doing what needs to be done. And should they not, you may lose everything in the process." A pause. "Just as my father did."

A clenched hand. "With all due respect, sir, I understood the risks when I took my assignment. I accept the consequences. And I will handle any fallout. But thank you for your concern." Terse and final.

A long sigh. "I say this out of your own benefit, not to piss you off," Checkmate assured. "I understand this job isn't easy. I recruited you as my father once did for your ancestor, yes, but I did my best to make sure you can maintain you all can maintain your civilian life. And I do want all of you to have a happy normal mortal life." Two pauses. "Just be careful."

"I will, sir," came curt promise.

Everyone was unmuted as Checkmate announced: "Pandemonium, did you pull the reports from…?"

As the conversation went about, the focus reached up to rearrange the Lacrima Screens. The hand found the screen they were looking for and expanded it. The screen held a profile picture of a smiling Luna and a description of her, her personal life, and her powers. But highlighted next to her powers were the words:

POSSIBLE CURE

Don't wanna Stop Stop koi suru kokoro ni

Kimi no Love Love ima tsukamaetai

Yasashiku sareru tabi ni sukoshi

Kitai shite shimau

•

Oh Never let me go dakishimete

Never let me go kimi janakya iya yo

Stop stop koi wa tomaranai

Negai wa hitotsu dake Stay by my side

•

Ah ah ah ha

Ah ah

Stay by my side

TO BE CONTINUED…

Oh, Nashi. We're all so sorry you had to go through something like that! Man, it just seems like things are falling apart right when everything was coming together! To see how this all plays out, tune in to the next episode of Fairy Adventure!

Chibi-Luna is in high spirits as she welcomes the class. "Good day, class!"

"Good day, teacher!" her students greet. "What's our Fairy Lesson today?"

Chibi-Luna turns on her powerpoint. "We'll run a quick lesson on Lost Magic or Rare Magic Types," she introduces. "You see, Lost Magic types and Rare Magic types are under the protection of the Magic Council, but that doesn't mean bad people won't try to get their hands on them."

"But how, teacher?" a student questions.

Chibi-Luna shows a swirling violet orb. "This is called Siphon Lacrima," she explains. "Only the Magic Council has access to any of them, but it doesn't mean other people haven't stolen them before. Siphon Lacrima contain Siphon Magic which can strip a Mage from their powers and transfer it into the Lacrima. But once the Magic is in the Lacrima, it can't be transferred to someone else, unlike Archive Magic which can transfer spell into a person. From there, a Siphon Lacrima can use the Magic it has within it."

"So, like that Psyphon guy that helped you guys in Bellum?" pipes up a student.

"Correct!" Chibi-Luna confirms. "There are a handful of wizards out there capable of stealing someone's Magic, but they're so rare because the human body of a Mage can't sustain that sort of magical input. So that's why Siphon Lacrima is used on some high-level prisoners within the Magic Council to strip them of their Magic before they can ever see the lit of day."

She goes to her next slide. "But in regard to Rare or Lost Magic, the Magic Council takes countermeasures to make sure those Mages are protected so, hopefully, they might pass their Magic down to children or be able to teach someone born with their Magic. In Fiore, Dragon Slayers are protected. It doesn't mean people don't try to fight them, but the Fiore monarchy will make sure the Dragon Slayers are, for the most part, protected from lethal attacks."

She shows a picture of Liberty and Esme. "But other Magic types are incredibly valuable. Liberty is the only person in the world born with Luck Magic. Some Magicians who mess around with probability spells might gain more luck than others, but Liberty is lucky herself. For that, she's highly wanted. Only Fairy Tail and her family truly know the extent of her power. It's why Mister Justine is very careful with Liberty and Justin is so protective of her." She points to Esme. "Esmeralda Strauss has Answer Magic. While her Magic Power isn't strong now, whenever a situation arises, her Magic adapts and rises to the challenge."

"That sounds really tiring," mutters a student.

"It is," Chibi-Luna agrees. "Her Magic Spirit is extremely flexible but having Answer Magic makes her very-much wanted. As a result, Esme is listed as a Take-Over Mage to keep her powers a secret. She retired as a Mage to pursue teaching because she didn't want to be a Mage and her Magic was too exhausting for her."

"And what about your Magic, teacher?"

Chibi-Luna shrugs. "My Magic might be rare and I'm under protection, but no one knows the limit my Magic can go, just like Esme. But Gale is right. If too many people saw what my powers could do, they'd want my powers. So, in Fairy Tail's registry, my Magic is listed as Celestial Spirit Magic to avoid too many people getting too curious for their own good." She claps her hands. "Okay! That's it for today! Next time, on Fairy Adventure: CLARITY!"

Voices of Characters in Order of Appearances

Mister Chigurupati – Ari Ross

Ocrevus Trumphour – Jeremy Schwartz

Chinlien Broussard – Leonard Wu

Hemera Wilson/Mirella – Edie Mirman

Skade – Sean Schemmel

Talia – Serena Varghese

Nashi Dragneel – Laura Landa

Mister Wilson/Kyler – Ray Chase

Luke Dragneel – Alan Lee

Luna Dragneel – Bryn Apprill

Icarus – Christopher Sabot

Natsu Dragneel – Todd Haberkorn

Gale Redfox – Greg Cipes

Zelda Lynk – Gabrielle Union

Julia Fullbuster – Michelle Ruff

Shenlong – Brad M. Jackson

Silver Fullbuster – Yuri Lowenthal

Ena Fernandes – Xanthe Huynh

Juvia Fullbuster – Brina Palencia

Gianni "Gigi" Gieves – Billy Porter

Lucy Heartfilia-Dragneel – Cherami Leigh

Linus Vastia – Crispin Freeman

Býleistr – Scott Freeman

Gary Fullbuster – Griffin Burns

Mary Jane Dreyar – Erica Lindbeck

Mirajane Dreyar – Monica Rial

Hotaru Matey – Laura Post

Laxus Dreyar – Patrick Seitz

Peter Shuusei-Thompson – Joe Zieja

Jasper Langley – Zeno Robinson

Seraphim – Jameison Price

Tesla Greer/Hylia Lynk – Galena White

Jang-ta "Jaxton" Yang/ White Wolf – Eddy Yeung

Checkmate - Jeannie Tirado

Valkyrie – Kira Buckland

Sub-Zero – James Napier

Cajun – Alessandra Juliani

Euboea – Hetty Abbot

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Additional Voices

Opening Narrator – Mary McGlynn

Recap Narrator – Melissa Fahn

Description Narrator – Mary McGlynn

Ending Narrator – Melissa Fahn