Fairy x Adventure

by Magnafeana

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

140. Adventure 140

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

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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.

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LAST TIME, on Fairy Adventure: making friends is sometimes easier than meeting an old ally. While Julia takes off with their new acquaintances in this city, Thirteen and Vinyl are stuck in the past. But everyone has a motive for coming to Shamballa, whether you're just here as a date or as an invited attendee. The question is what are people hoping to find above ground or below? Julia's time with her new posse makes her remember moments of her childhood with Silver. While she reminisces, Gale goes backstage to follow new player Sheikha Fatimah. But Fatimah has a motive for showing face during this auction: to get the Emira out of this country at all costs.

"She's married to the king of Bellum."

Yara Sandström, Vespers Vivaldi, Swan, Holy Eye Priest John—just who are you? And it looks like the comatose king of Bellum won't be in that coma for much longer…

---

Chibi-Nashi appears with a grin and a wave. "Hi, everyone! Ready for more Fairy Adventure? To keep your eyes safe, make sure you read with at least one light on in a low setting! And here is the updated time zone table!"

Abbreviations – Time Zone Name • — • — •— • — Location • — Offset

MCDT • — • — Melandian Central Daylight Time – Melandia • — • UTC +7

CST • — • — • – Cipangu Standard Time • — • — • — Cipangu • — • – UTC +5

SST • — • — • – Sīchóu Standard Time • — • — • — Zhōnguá • — • – UTC +3

CIT • — • — • – Central Ishgaran Time • — • — • — Bellum • — • – UTC +2

CMT • — • — • – Charring Mean Time • — • — • — Minstrel • — • – UTC +1

FST • — • – Fiore Standard Time • — • — • — • Fiore • — • — • – UTC - 0:00

WIT • — • – Western Ishgaran Time • — • — • — • Caelum • — • – UTC - 0:00

ACT • — • — Arcticados Central Time • — • — • – Arcticados • — • — UTC – 1

CAST • — • — • — • — Caracole-Alicanto Standard Time – Fiore • — • UTC – 1

ADT • — • — • – Alvarez Daylight Time • — • — • – Alvarez • — • — UTC – 2

SST • — • — Shamballa Standard Time • — • — Shamballa • — • — UTC – 2

EAT • — • — • – East Andüsa Time • — • — • – Andüsa • — • — • — UTC – 2

AT • — • — • – Amazone Time • — • — • — • — • — Valchestria • — UTC - 4

EST • — • — • – Eastern Standard Time • — • — • – Meidiland • — • UTC - 6

Chibi-Nashi winks with a thumbs up. "See you at the end of the episode!"

---

Albums filled with swatches of fabric and photos of designs stored safely in the built-in bookcases. Of course, the ARL (Artificial Reality Lacrima) was available for client usage to see how a design would fit on them without having to go through the trouble of hemming and hawing in a dressing room. Silver took pride in polishing all his beloved mistress' awards and dusting off the pictures Ena had from successful runways and with celebrities and oligarchs who happily carried her line and wanted a picture for the memory.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

« This is Ena's consultation office, a pocket dimension Erza gifted her to professionally host all her clientele. »

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

"Why on Earth Land do you need a stealth suit?"

If Gale did not know any better, he and Lady J had been sent to the headmaster's office. It certainly felt like that sitting in Ena's consultation room in ratty clothes while she looked like she could slay a monster before the crack of dawn.

Which, to be fair, she had done before.

"My stealth suits are not for individual and external-guild purposes," Ena stated. "And they are only allowed for borrowed use for special missions Master assigns, of which you'll have to talk to Miss Laughter about the contract and sign the necessary paperwork."

"This isn't for a job," Julia told her. "If you could just—"

"Then I can't help you," Ena cut in, already ready to dismiss them.

Julia narrowed her eyes. "'Can't' or 'won't'?"

"What does it matter?" Ena kept her gaze even. "You're not getting a stealth suit based on personal reasons. End of story. Now get out of my office." She called, "Silver?"

Silver peeked his head in. "Yes, Mistress?"

Ena leaned back in her share. "Call my next consultation and let them know they may show up at an earlier time than pre-arranged." She flicked her disinterested stare to a tense Gale and Julia like they were not worth her time. "This consultation has ended."

Julia started forward. "Ena, please, if you would just listen for once in your life—!"

"What she means is," Gale loudly cut in, holding Julia down with his hand on her shoulder, "we understand your policy for battle suits and stealth suits, and we…respect that policy—"

"Good." Ena crossed her arms. "Then get out of my office."

TICK!

Gale kept his strained smile as two tick marks pounded his temple. If she wasn't Blondie's bestie, I swear to the gods I'd let her have it. He kept his cool, however. "But we're asking you to look at our circumstances and listen to our case—"

"No circumstance would change my mind." Ena leaned forward with her mouth rested against propped and clasped hands. "My designs are not here to help with personal vendettas because I know what cornered people do with power. And I have hidden my level of Enchantment for a reason and that reason is far more valuable and important than your circumstances. How are you any different than other guild members who want to take advantage of my generosity? You aren't. And nothing you can say will change my mind."

Julia could not shut down her agitation for a clear head. "You really think that's the type of people we are? Are you serious? You really are accusing us of taking advantage of your powers—!"

"Yes, that's exactly right."

Frustrated blues clashed with cool browns.

"I understand we're all part of the same guild, but that also means I'm well-aware of what you want," Ena said. "Without this system in place, my designs could be used for something nefarious." Her eyes cut to Gale. "For example, if someone were to be rejected and didn't handle that rejection well, perhaps my generosity could be used to pursue and then attack someone."

Gale flinched back, but Julia called out, "He's changed. It's not your right to use that against him, and that was a low fucking blow." Gaining momentum, she put her hands on Ena's desk. "I understand you don't want your power to be put in bad situations, but I promise you, this is a very different scenario if you'd just listen to me—"

"No. I'm done listening to such a ridiculous request." Ena waved them away. "Get out."

Julia bristled. "You can't just—!"

"Mistress." Silver slunk into the office to come to Ena's side and whispered in her ear, "Could you hear them out, just this once?"

Ena might not have glared at Gale and Julia, but she certainly did at her assistant. "Since when do you have the authority or the salary to advise me on my policies? If I make an exception for one, then I make an exception for more. The answer is 'no'." She harrumphed. "And I will not change my mind due to incessant asking. So does as I say."

"Oh, come on, Mistress, I know you want to know why they're asking," Silver sweetly ribbed.

Ena hmphed and turned away from him. "Of course I don't."

"Oh, don't be so stubborn, Mistress!" Silver took to nudging and prodding Ena with a cute smile. "You've been doing so much better softening your personality around your guildmates. This would be a great step in progress! Do it for etiquette, Mistress, pretty please?"

Julia and Gale were torn between sweatdropping and dreariness as they watched Silver's flowery aura agitate Ena's murderous one. What is going on?

"Mistress." Silver took Ena's hand and rested it on his cheek. He pulled his trump card. "If you at least listen, I'll give you another water massage."

Ena's ears perked, but she refused to give in. No. I need to remain strong against such temptation. Even if—she could blissfully imagine another water massage to work out all the kinks and knots in her back—such temptation is so…tempting. No! She trashed the thought with others of sword fighting and killing monsters. You must not be swayed—!

"Oh, Mistress…" Silver kissed her fingers. "I'll even make you a homemade double chocolate cake."

DING-DING!

Inwardly, Ena drooled at the prospect of having a chocolate cake all to her lonesome (and there Silver was in a frilly robe as he presented what looked like a masterpiece among art). A whole…chocolate cake…just for me?

"And…" Silver grinned as he added on, "I'll invite Lulu over too."

DING-DING-DING!

Now it truly felt like Heaven being able to feed her adorable best friend some of her cake while Silver took his time massaging her aching back. So…tempting…

"Well now, Mistress?" A smiling Silver glowed like an Angel. "Will you listen to them?'

Ena tried to shield herself from Silver's glowing aura (and there Gale and Julia were in sunglasses, impervious to such an effective Ena-taming tactic). Gah, he's almost as bright as L!

"Mistress…" Silver kissed her knuckles with those blues lethally charming. "Listen for me?"

DOKI-DOKI!

Ena turned away (and felt an odd tingling in her nose), a flustered red crammed onto her ears. What is wrong with my heart? I feel like I'm in danger, but I don't know from what. I think I need to visit Porlyusica and Wendy later.

Saving face and clearing her throat, she regarded stiffly, "I find those terms most agreeable. So I will listen to this idiotic explanation. But I make no promises."

"Very good, Mistress!" Silver rubbed Ena's shoulders, beaming. "See? You're making such good progress! I'm so proud of you, Mistress!"

Red-eared, Ena huffed, "Don't patronize me. I expect you to follow your word down to the letter, Silver."

"For you? I'd do anything for my kind mistress!"

Gale and Julia did not know what to make of this situation of a tyrant subdued by her servant. So it looks like the puppy actually controls his master…

Ena, flustered and agitated, snipped, "Stop with the sweet-talking. You're making a fool of yourself. Excuse yourself and get me more tea."

"Right away, Mistress! Please excuse me!"

Ena waited until Silver was gone and the door closed to cough behind a fist. "I apologize for my assistant. I don't know what has gotten into him. He seems to think he has more say since I told him I…need and care for him." She waved a hand and mumbled, "I can't understand why it makes him so happy."

Gale and Julia sweatdropped catching Ena's radiant aura. You look just as happy as him!

"Now." Gone was the flustered Ena. Mistress Ena of the House of E sat in her chair and looked ready to turn down whatever offer came her way. "Why do you need my stealth suit? You have until Silver returns to plead your case. That being said"—browns darkened—"there is no guarantee my answer will change. So I'd be decisive about your wording."

Julia took the lead as she clasped her hands on Ena's desk and took a deep breath. "In February, I discovered something important. To put it frankly, I was invited to a high international society event for spring break."

"I see." Ena crossed her legs. "I take it you mean the Shamballa Spring Auction?"

That made Julia lose some of her momenta. "You know about it?"

Ena arched an eyebrow. "Of course I do. I'm rich."

Dreariness shadowed Gale and Julia. No need to rub it in.

Ena flicked back her hair. "Being invited to the Shamballa Spring Auction and Fundraiser is not something to take lightly. I've been invited but never attended since I felt it wasn't appropriate for me to attend such an event until I debuted during, at least, Minstrel or Pergrande fashion week." She frowned. "Why were you invited? You haven't contributed much if not anything to international society and your finances are spare change compared to mine."

TICK!

Darkness filmed over Gale and Julia. Again: no need to rub it in.

Julia looked down. "I…can't tell you who invited me." Looking up, she met Ena's stare. "But I can tell you they invited me for a reason. And I can't let this opportunity pass before my eyes when it could help me towards my personal goal."

Dark browns flittered with intrigue. Her own goal?

"I understand me being vague isn't helping my case right now," Julia recognized, "but I can't tell you more than that. The Shamballa auction will have answers to my questions if I play my cards right. But to do that, I know it won't be as easy as me attending the auction as I am. It's going to require much more than that." She tensed. "I understand your concerns with me abusing your generosity. And I can't say I won't have any dark thoughts of what I could do."

"Then what will you do to control those dark urges and stay on your path?" Ena challenged.

Gale sat forward. "That's why I'm going," he inserted. "We'll both keep each other in check."

"Hmm." Ena's gaze bounced between the pair. "That's not reassuring to hear. What happens if both of you have those dark urges? Then what? Neither one of you will be capable of holding back the other from caving. Or am I supposed to believe that you have enough control?"

Julia glared at the table, unable to drum up a response. I have to make her listen to us. Without her suits… Her hands pressed together.

"Yes. You are."

Both young ladies looked at a determined Gale.

Ena slipped on a mocking smirk. "Really? I should believe you in regards to control? After what I've seen of you, you're the last person I would ever trust to exercise control. And I'm sure if Igneel was here, he would agree with me."

Gale did not flinch at the bitten words, but he acknowledged them with a bit of resignation. "I know I'm not the poster child for control. And you're right. If Igneel had been here when I did that to Blondie, I doubt I'd be talking to anyone in this room. I'm not about to deny being a complete douchebag and asshole all these years." Rubies flickered. "And I'm not going to deny…I didn't know a thing about control."

His shoulders tensed. "However…"

Resolved reds clashed with mistrusting browns.

"I'm actively growing out of being that person," Gale said. "Just like you're growing out of who you used to be. I can't take back my past actions. But I can learn from them so they don't repeat themselves. I'm learning, Ena. I'm aware I have a lot to learn and I'm not gonna stop learning either. But I'm putting every effort I can to be better than I was. You don't have to trust me. But you can watch me and see for yourself that I'm growing."

Deep browns flickered. Watch and see for myself, huh?

Ena marinated over the idea. "I plan to take L with me to my Caelum business trip."

Such a statement surprised Gale. "What? Are you sure about that? She barely leaves her house as it is."

"It's nothing she'll be forced on," Ena assured. "And I'm aware that she's exchanged since January. Her smiles aren't the same. And when she would stay with me, I had to hold her." Deep browns gleamed. "Her nightmares…"

Gale solemnly understood. "I know. Luke says some nights are better than others, but…"

Ena sighed. "Honestly, I had always planned to take L with me to Caelum when the notion was brought up. I was conflicted seeing her change. But I want to give her the chance to come with me. Her parents agreed it's her decision if she wants to accompany Silver and me. I'm hoping she takes it, though I'm not expecting it. But I want to see how much she can grow."

It was silly, really, but one photo on her desk held a cherished memory of her and Luna together back when growing pains and realities of the world did not touch them as much. But she affectionately looked at it all the same. "You might find it cruel, but if she comes with me, this will serve as a test. She can't fail it. And passing is subjective. But it's a test nevertheless. And I'm hoping she does well. Because I don't want her to keep struggling in silence."

She made up her mind. "All right. As long as we put contracts in place and an NDA clause, I will allow you to use my stealth suits for one week. But this isn't a sign of goodwill or camaraderie. This is a test for you, Gale," she directed at him. "Show me how you've grown."

Gale nodded. "I will."

Ena nodded back and looked at Julia. "I don't know what sort of business you have in Shamballa. And it's not my job to ask questions." She leaned forward. "But for your sake, I hope you know what you're doing. And what you are doing won't bring Silver any harm."

"I'm his sister," Julia defended.

"Exactly." Ena made sure Julia saw her power. "That's why I'm saying it to you."

Julia could have tersely recounted, but she kept herself in check. "I…understand."

"Good." Ena glanced at the door. "Silver? Bring me the—"

"Already have them, Mistress!" Silver said as he came in balancing a silver tea platter in one hand and a metal briefcase in another.

Ena gave him an irate look. "So you just assumed I would approve?" She huffed. "Shameless behavior. You're becoming more arrogant around me."

"Don't be so grumpy, Mistress," Silver teased as he set down the briefcase and the tea tray. With grace and expertise, he poured the tea and added a few ingredients. "Shouldn't you praise me more for being in-synch with your wants? Didn't I do a good job?"

Inwardly, Chibi-Silver panted with his tail wagging. Tell me I did good, Mistress, please…!

Ena sighed. "Very well." She raised her hand to brush his cheek with a small smile. "Thank you, Silver."

Silver beamed. "You're welcome—Gah!"

Ena pinched his cheek and stretched. "But don't ever assume like that. It makes me think you're questioning my authority." She let him go and his skin snapped back.

Silver rubbed his stinging cheek, pouty. "Yes, Mistress…" Hiding his face from her, he tried to keep down his excited blush and lovingly rubbed his cheek. Mistress punished me, heh-heh… And it was so adorable.

Gale and Julia had shadows over their eyes as Ena seemed oblivious her pure-of-heart assistant looked a little too happy he received a scolding. So it's like that between them…

Ena lifted her teacup and blew across it. "Silver, open the case."

"Yes, Mistress." Silver was careful with the sigil on the briefcase and decoded it before unlatching the holds and opening it up. He spun it around to show Julia and Gale the contents.

Julia's brow furrowed when she saw metal Fairy Tail insignia well insulated. "What…?" She looked up at Ena in confusion. "What are these?"

"These"—Ena took a sip of her tea—"are S-Class prototypes I have been developing that don't require battle suits. Inside both of these marks are the stealth suits. Hold them to your chest and press down for the stealth suit. But there is a bonus feature I have been trying."

Gale took hold of one of the marks. "And what's that?"

"If you press a second time, you'll turn invisible."

That certainly got Julia and Gale's attention. "Are you serious?"

Ena nodded. "Yes. Invisibility is hard to cast unless you are born with Reflector. I might be able to make myself refract my surroundings, but on another object is very different. That's why these are prototypes. And the spell can only last for one hour once activated. You'll be warned, of course, once the spell has five minutes left until it deactivates. However, there is one catch."

Gale asked, "And what's that?"

"That hour you have invisible is only if you remained still," Ena informed. "Once you begin to move, the durability of the spell wears down drastically and at a ratio I haven't been able to personally test and commit an average. So I would encourage you only to use them in a state of emergency or if you know you can get to your destination quick enough."

"I see…" Julia murmured. For her to make these suits turn invisible in the first place… That's extremely hard to do without a magical item. She clutched the metal insignia. I can understand why she doesn't want these in the wrong hands. If anyone knew her Enchant could even cast something as advanced as Invisibility…

"Of course, besides invisibility, everything else is standard," Ena said off-handedly. "Bulletproof, fireproof, gas and acid-proof, masks function as gas masks, and charmed so all your movements are muted and so the durability on your suits is increased to help with any harsh landings or knife wounds." She took another sip of her tea. "Naturally."

Gale and Julia withered at Ena's radiant aura. Why does it feel like she's bragging?

"Thank you, Ena, for letting us use these," Julia appreciated. "I know you didn't have to, but really… Thank you."

"Don't thank me. Gratitude is for gifts and generosity. This isn't me being generous," Ena said. "This is me testing you the same as my mother does. If you fail to bring me back those suits or get yourself exposed, know this." Her expression darkened. "The contracts you sign protect me from any form of legal punishment. I will not defend you if you get into trouble, nor will I help you. Neither will Silver. This is one-hundred percent your responsibility to be responsible for those suits outside of Fairy Tail's help."

Julia stared down Ena. I get it. She's making it clear if we do anything reckless in Shamballa, we aren't to harm Fairy Tail's name in doing so. "We understand that. We won't expose ourselves out in the field. And we also won't be attending as Fairy Tail Mages."

Silver slightly narrowed his eyes at his older sister. 'Mages', huh?

"Which brings me to my next point," Julia said. "We need help picking out a wardrobe that matches where we're going."

"Oh, I believe that," Ena remarked, sweeping over their casual outfits in disapproval. "Your…boho chic isn't up to standard with Shamballa's level of fashion." She snapped her fingers and Silver was already to present her two leather folders. "You're quite fortunate you're both conventionally attractive or else I wouldn't be able to help you."

TICK!

Gale and Julia held back their fury from a backhanded compliment. Is she trying to piss us off?

"But I'm happy to say your order is already complete."

Gale frowned. "Our orders?"

Julia blinked, thrown off. "What do you mean?"

"I meant what I said." Ena looked at her, knowing. "Both your orders for personal shopping assistance were already placed and fulfilled. In fact, Silver already has your clothes waiting for you." She slid the leather folders before Gale and Julia. "All you have to do is sign. And I'll have to admit." Her lips quirked. "His tastes are quite trendy."

Julia came to the realization. Noko? He did do this? But he didn't say anything to me about this. Wariness mulled over her. How much does Ena know? No, Noko wouldn't reveal himself like that. But he must have said something to Ena. But considering all she's doing right now, I can't press her for answers. She could take back all this at any point…and I wouldn't be able to argue my point again.

"Right. I got it," Julia haltingly said.

"Good." Ena opened the folders to take out the contracts. "Silver?"

Silver had prepped to case and opened it up to reveal two fountain pens.

Ena took one and showed them to Gale and Julia. "There are—"

"Contract Pens," Gale noted, baffled. "But I didn't think anyone other than attorneys in the Magic legal department had them and guild masters?"

"These are a gift from my mother," Ena confirmed. "I have been granted authority to own two in my possession. These Contract Pens will force you to stick to the contents of this contract once you give all your signatures and sign. Even if you were to sign with a fake name, the contract still recognizes your biometrics as the signer and you will be severely fined for posing a fake identity."

Gale smirked. "You really don't trust us, do you, Big Red?"

"This isn't a matter of trust as it is protecting my interests and assets," replied Ena, evenly. "Especially when you are taking under-researched prototypes into the field. My Contract Pens are only used when it comes to an NDA needed. This means, no matter what you do or what happens to you, you will not be at liberty to speak about our guild or where you got your suits. Perhaps"—deep browns glinted—"you might not be at liberty to say who you really are no matter what happens."

It registered in Gale. That's right. Even in the face of death, unless the contract holder relinquishes responsibility from the signer, the person can't say a word. But fortunately, vows and bindings are Black Spells and are illegal. That's where Contract Pens were made and regulated. She's essentially telling us using these pens will permanently seal away any opportunity for us to spill our guts if we're tormented. It might seem like she's lacking trust in us but in reality…

His fangs showed in his grin. This is putting more trust in us.

"All right." Julia and Gale each took a pen. "We'll sign."

"Good. It's not as though you had any other choice."

Gale and Julia felt dreary again. She really does like talking down to people.

°•°•°•°

Everything said and done, Gale and Julia got up with a copy of their contracts and the briefcase in hand as Silver closed the door to Ena's consultation room and revealed they were still in the Fernandes home. "I'll see you both out."

Gale snorted as he looked over Ena's business card. "Big Red really knows how to annoy and impress me all at the same time. Who knew she was capable of being such a badass?"

"She's always been like that," Silver said with pride. "You just never recognized it."

"Didn't you not recognize it for the longest time?" Gale called out.

Silver sweated. "W-W-Well, I do now!" Blushing, he got them to the door and nudged their shoes before them. "There you go." He went to scamper back to Ena's side. "Bye—"

"Hold on," Julia stopped him. Once he swung back to her, confused, she told him, "Thanks for convincing Ena to give us a chance. I know that couldn't have been easy to do, standing up to her like that."

Silver frowned. "It is easy to do. She's pretty understanding, actually."

Gale barked a laugh. "I'll believe that when I see it."

"You don't need to see it to believe it." Silver did not find it funny. His tone firmed and so did his eyes. "She's a lot more understanding than you think. But she doesn't have to be understanding when she's giving you special equipment outside of her policies for whatever it is you two are doing. She's being extremely kind to you right now."

His hands fisted. The only person she's not kind to is herself. Why can't people see that?

"And we won't take it for granted," Julia soothed. "We appreciate both of you doing this for us." She looked at the briefcase. "These are going to help us immensely with what we're doing."

"And you'll… You'll be safe?" Silver hesitantly asked.

Julia grinned. "C'mon. I can defend myself too, y'know." She flexed an arm full of toned muscle. "Your big sister is still a lot stronger than you in every way that counts, remember?"

Blues darkened as something primal peeked. "Even in Magic?"

Julia frowned, not catching what Silver muttered. "Huh?"

Silver shook his head. "Nothing. Be careful with the case. See you at home, maybe." Without waiting for a proper farewell, he turned away and abandoned the duo to go back to his mistress' side.

Julia frowned at Silver's strangeness. "What crawled up his ass?" She shrugged. "Whatever. Let's bounce."

"Sure…" Gale was slower in removing his guest slippers to toe in his combat boots, his thoughts slowly churning. Something has been off about Silver. And I don't know what. His gut tensed. But it feels like something bad is going to happen.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

"Ame no youna kaze no youna

Dareka no koto jama suru youna

Hito ni nante naritaku wanai kara?

Hare no youna hikari no youna

Dareka no koto teraseru youna

Hito ni naritai!"

nante itai tte dareka no koe ga?

Kikoetara nanda

Nagutte kowashite sayonara DILEMMA!

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

All right, Big Red. Let's see if your stealth suit is up for the task.

The party on the yacht went like normal with responsibilities thrown to the wind and everyone wanting to be a friend to the prince, but Gale was not caught up in such things. He glanced around as he kept Fatimah in his peripherals before touching his earring. "Yo, Lady J. I've got something. I'll be back. Contact me for an emergency. Switching to silent." He turned his crystal earring and saw as Fatimah spoke to security to go downstairs.

Gale tensed. All right. Now or never. He caught the Security Lacrima in the corners of the ceiling. Since we're on a yacht with the kids of the rich, security won't be lax and they'll be tracking my every movement. He checked his smartwatch and checked one of his apps to press a button. Good thing we came prepared. I'll have to ask where Lady J found her support. He might give Genius a run for his damn money.

VRR!

Gale hid his grin when he saw the operation went successful. All right. Cameras should be painting me in a good light as the young miss's bodyguard. And not only that… He tapped the watch again and saw he had options to scroll through the security feed. We have a buy-in to the eyes of the ship. He got to one camera that showed Fatimah crossing it. Huh. This camera looks like it's positioned on the residential floor below the deck.

He covered his watch. Easy enough then. So while Lady J does her thing… He dipped into the men's room, but he did not go in. He merely stood in the corner and made sure no one else could interrupt him. I'll do mine. And the coast is clear.

He took off his shoes to look at the soles. They were removable with ease and he quickly put on his face mask. A few potion vials were in his other shoe and he slipped them into his pockets. The last pieced looked to be a Fairy Tail metal mark. So… My suit is in this.

He put back on his shoes before looking at the mark. This is the first time I'm wearing a stealth suit that's not in my battle gear. Here's to hoping Red didn't purposefully give me a bad batch.

Gale pressed the mark onto his chest—

PIIII!

It shocked Gale when material rolled out from the Fairy Tail medal. What the—? Another obscure layer of black flattened around him from the Fairy Tail insignia. Even his hands were covered and the suit came up to cover his neck and burdened him with a hood. Righteous… Remind me to never get on Big Red's bad side. He thumbed the Fairy Tail symbol on his chest. And if I press here…

He pressed again—

SHUUUN!

Gale spent a moment being geeked out as his entire person turned invisible. Fuckin' A, what is she, a spy fashion maker? No wonder she's already rich. He adjusted his mask. But I know this won't last forever, especially with me moving around. So I better make my move quick.

He left his little corner to brave through the floor of the yacht. Avoiding personnel and guests was easy enough and he kept his ears alert. There are rapid beating hearts everywhere, but there's one that's beating a little faster than the rest. He reached the main lobby and saw the grand staircase that led upstairs and downstairs. Security was ever-present, but they stood no chance against someone they could not hear or see.

Gale passed downstairs with ease and had to maneuver through giggling guests and poised staff. Security checkpoints were a must when you hosted some of the richest people's children.

Gale listened close to all the voices. I can't hear here the princess' voice anywhere. And no one seems to be talking about her. He kept his quick stride down the hall for a hint of Fatimah anywhere—

"Make sure this gets to the princess."

Gale paused. Wait a second.

"Here's the sign-off sheet. Don't be offended if the princess sends it back either. She's known to be a picky eater and barely eats what's on her plate." A scoff. "No wonder she's labeled 'ungrateful'."

"Yes, sir."

Gale looked at the floor. Those voices… The galley must be on the lower deck. And if they're taking food to the princess… He moved out of the way from incoming foot traffic to get back to the steps and hurry down them. He rushed into the lower deck and flattened himself against the wall as staff came up and down with items. When he turned his head—

A flutter of white hair.

Gale locked onto a woman dressed as a server with a tray in her hands. That must be the server taking stuff to the princess. Lady J's new friends said no one is allowed to use the suites, so it's a pretty good guess. He zipped down the hall to follow after the server and studied her profile when she turned down a hall. I can't tell where she's from. But from what I can sense, she has Magic on her. No, that's not right. She has something blocking her Magic.

The woman ended up at a dual set of doors that required a security pass to get through. Gale hurried through the doors before they closed, but he kept back as the woman approached two guards. The guards exchanged words in the Shamballan dialect with each other. From before, it sounded like she spoke Minstrish. I can't understand what the guards are saying, but…

One guard asked the server, "And the taste-tester has approved?"

"Yes." The woman showed a signed sheet with a large step on it. "Here is the sign of sheet from the vendors, the galley staff, and the taste-tester."

Gale narrowed his eyes. Hold on… His rubies glowed to enhance his vision, but he could feel the flow of energy around him. There's Magic coming off that. Was a Contract Pen used to sign off? It makes sense. If the princess dies due to poisoning, it would immediately kill everyone who signed off on that sheet. Very smart.

One guard took a look and held up the contract to the slight to authenticate the stamp. When he nodded, the other guard rapped on the door and said something in Shamballan.

Gale heard a soft confirmation from inside and tensed. Now's my chance.

When security opened the door, Gale stayed back to let the server go through, but it was his lucky day they wanted to monitor the situation. He snuck in and scuttled close to the wall to keep close to the door. But he got an eye full of the Fatimah and all her beauty as she spoke to security. So she's the second princess…

Once security closed the door, Fatimah sighed. "I'm sure they'll report to Father about my demands again. And he'll scold me for giving others around me a hard time." She cupped her elbows. "Like always."

Gale got himself comfortable, hanging onto every word that she and the server exchanged. From the reports on her, she's known to be the ungrateful princess. Lady J said she rarely attends events alone since there's speculation she has to rely on her brother or sister to help get her into events. But she doesn't seem like she has an attitude problem. His gaze switched to the server. But something about this server doesn't seem right. And I can't put my finger on it.

Fatimah smoothed down her skirt to sit. "After Alvarez rose and promoted freedom and equality for all, Shamballa was one of the first countries to tear down the misogynistic laws and restrictions." Deep browns softened. "My father led the charge before he was named crown prince with my mother with him. It's just a misconception from others about how things are in Alakitasia. Then again, it's no bed of roses to live here."

"I agree." The server finished arranging the table and curled the tray in their arms. "Those who have sight sometimes have no vision. Just because one lives in this world doesn't mean they've truly seen what this world holds."

Gale's brow furrowed. What is she…?

Fatimah cleared her throat, hands shaky. "I-I-I brought something."

Gale's vision enhanced to get a clear scope of the chess piece—the queen—Fatimah revealed to the server. Why does she have a…?

A quiet gasp. "So it's true."

Fatimah watched as the server had to take a seat opposite to her. "You know this?"

"Yes." The server put down the tray on the floor and reached across for gloved fingers to carefully take the piece. "I recognize this. It's one of His Majesty's chess pieces. He poured so much love and care to make this. And when the queen is reunited with the king, something wonderful happens." The server curled the chess piece to their chess and took a shaky breath. "For the past fifteen years, I've been looking for this chess piece for His Majesty. And when I learned where it was…" They had to take a moment as they covered their mouth.

Gale pieced together what he knew. All right. So the princess and this server were actually contacts. That must be why the server approached the princess with her drink. But… He looked at the queen chess piece. That queen… The Magic on it… It's like something I've never seen. He focused on the teary-eyed woman. 'His Majesty', she says, and 'fifteen years'. Who is this woman?

Fatimah gripped her skirt. "So you're really…"

"Ah!" The woman brought out a handkerchief to dab beneath their eyes. "I'm sorry. I just didn't think I'd be successful." She straightened up and looked Fatimah in the eye. "I am Yara Sandström. It's a pleasure to meet someone else who cares about—" Her words caught. "Who cares…about Inayah." She took a moment, then questioned, hesitant, "Has…? Is she okay?"

Fatimah looked away. "She's safe," she said. "She's… Father is giving her the utmost protection—"

"Your Highness." Yara stopped her, all hesitation gone and the look of a firm woman left behind. "Is she okay?"

'Yara Sandström', Gale repeated. 'Sandström'… That's a middle Ishgaran last name. Sounds Bellish. But she cares about the queen. It seems she has an intimate relationship with her. As does the princess. But what's the connection?

Fatimah breathed, "No." She's not." She swallowed. "Father won't allow her to remove her veil. I… I can't speak about Inayah's relationship with my father. He's never beaten her and I've never seen him verbally do much. Rather, he's very gentle and considerate towards her. But…" A thick wad of saliva lodged in her throat. "He… The servants tell me he calls her to their marital room more frequently. He announced…that they'll be trying for a baby not that long ago."

Yara's face hardened. "Has he—?"

"I-I don't know. I don't think so, no," Fatimah said and looked dolefully at Yara. "I want to say he wouldn't, but I just see how terrified she is." She could not believe her own words. "He's a good man. I want to say he wouldn't. But Zayed—" Her breath hitched.

Gale's teeth showed. If the second princess recognizes her brother is that creepy on the queen, it makes me concerned about what happens behind closed doors.

Fatimah switched topics. "But she's heavily protected and never really alone. She's only alone in her chambers and after she's been washed and dressed. No one is permitted to see beneath her veil. And Father has stationed security even for her balcony."

"I'll worry about that," Yara assured. "All I need is to get inside the castle and with her. I can get her out once I'm in."

'Get her out'? Gale echoed. So then… This is a secret rescue mission. No, this is worse. This is treason. Even if the queen ran away of her own volition, she would be furiously hunted down. Alakitasian authority is no joke about their leaders. But she sounds so confident she can safely get the queen out. So I wonder… Who or what gave her such confidence?

"I-If I may…"

Gale focused on Fatimah.

The second princess questioned, "Who…are you to Inayah?"

Yara's face fell into dejection. "I'm someone who failed her," she murmured. "I knew her when she was just a teenager, which wasn't that long ago. A very bright girl. She always saw the positives of everything. And she was an excellent chess player." She looked fondly at the chess piece. "They'd spend hours playing chess together."

Fatima and Gale caught on. "'They'?" / 'They?'

"Yes." Yara's blues saddened. "Does she still have her music box?"

"Ah…" Fatimah nodded. "Y-Yes, she does. Father said that was the only gift she liked from all her wedding gifts." She peered closer. "How did you know about it? Her gift unwrapping wasn't made public."

Yara sighed. "That music box was supposed to be a gift a long time ago," she supplied. "When she was young, a very serious situation fell into her lap. She was overwhelmed and terrified. But…she had someone special to her to help her. He was young too, but he was passionate and wanted to do the right thing. He commissioned the music box for he with a secret compartment for their memories. He wanted to give it to her in person, but…" Her blues glinted. "He was very sick. And I couldn't leave him since I was his personal Healer. So I asked someone to deliver it to her."

She briefly closed her eyes. "But I was very foolish. And they both suffered because of me." She looked at Fatimah. "I don't know why you're helping us. The person who helped me so far… All he said was that you were the only one who understood she was suffering here."

"She is." Fatimah swallowed, her stomach in knots. "She's only a few years older than me. I remember when she came here and Father introduced us after that entire shame of seducing her. I couldn't stand it. Haya started calling her 'mother' and basically introduced her to high society, but I know she only did that to make herself look better. And Zayed…" Now she felt sickened. "Inayah would tell me Zayed would stare at her. At first, I didn't believe her. But I started noticing. Haya told me I was disgusting for implying anything. I couldn't bring it up to our father. But I saw how he'd stare at her."

Yara had to know. "Did he do anything more than stare?"

Fatimah was in near tears. "He visited her whenever he came home from boarding school. Outside of Father, he's the only other man allowed"—she choked—"in her chambers." She sniffed and used the side of her hand to wipe her cheeks. "I'm sorry—"

"Don't be, Your Highness. Thank you for telling me."

Whoa, whoa, whoa, this is heavy. Gale cupped his chin, musing and sickened. If it's possible the first prince has been regularly assaulting the queen… I'm sure the sick fuck has been playing the perfect prince. He looked like the part. And since Fatimah isn't well-liked by her own people, instead of taking SA allegations seriously, they'd pin it on her being rebellious and probably sentence her. I can see why she's so fucked up about this. She wants to save her step-mother, but in her trying, she could be booted out of the castle and whatever support the queen has is instantly gone. Talk about being between a rock and a hard place. And from what Yara is saying, the queen and her know each other. Not only that, but Yara was the queen's lover's nurse. This is getting more and more complicated.

Yara lifted her chin. "Your Highness, we need to work together to get her out of here."

"How?" Fatimah wanted to know, helpless. "She's the Emira of Shamballa. My father has already moved mountains for her security. If she's found gone, you don't know the type of military power and allies he has to find her again. She'll never be safe. She'll never be able to live freely again."

"Yes, she will."

"How?"

"Because your father illegally married a married woman."

That took the wind from Fatimah's sails and even made Gale tense up. "What?" / What?

Gale sifted through his mental recollection of all the files on the Emira. Lady J didn't say anything like that. How could she be married? Given what happened to her, it seemed her reputation in her home country was completely tarnished—

"She's married," Yara affirmed. "I was a witness to her marriage. And while polygamy is legal in her home country and Shamballa, it's illegal in her husband's home country to enter a polygamous marriage without documented consent from both countries. And I assure you, action will be taken for her nonconsensual marriage."

Fatimah sat forward, but she was still skeptical. "Are you sure? My father's the emir. Who would even have the authority to try and drag him through court? Who is she married to?"

Yara dug into her pocket and produced a matching king chess piece for the queen. "She's married to the king of Bellum."

Gale stopped breathing. What?

Fatimah voiced what Gale thought. "What? But…!" She shook her head. "But that's…! That's impossible!"

"It's true," Yara said gravely, "and I have all proof needed to verify their marriage and its legality."

"But…! The royal family of Bellum all died a long time ago," Fatimah countered. "I heard the current king was lucky to be alive, but he was so weak and frail. He wouldn't have been of sound mind for marriage and he would've been only a child."

Yara's smile turned bittersweet. "Yes. He was only a teenager when it happened," she softly recalled. "Bellum royalty still has a law that permits marriages as young as thirteen years of age. The law is old and it was forgotten since, as the centuries progressed, royalty was more commonly entering marriages in their mid-twenties once they had their education complete. But the law is still in effect."

"Yes, but he—!"

"His Majesty's state was…greatly exaggerated," Yara spoke. "And that was no one's fault but to the adults around him." She thumbed the queen chess piece. "His Majesty was the only prince out of his siblings. But while the princesses took charge and were active in society…His Majesty was a recluse. He hid away from his royal duties and was more comfortable being alone than with his family. The rumors about his health spread since he easily got sick being immunocompromised, but he wasn't frail and dim-witted. No."

Her blues gleamed in maternal fondness. "He was very smart and tender-hearted. His sisters and parents doted on him constantly. I had been a Royal Healer for the late king at the time, and he was often boasting about his son's smarts. He wished His Majesty was more outgoing, but he didn't want to force him, which is quite rare for noble parents to do. Rather than outing His Majesty, his family let him live his life to his comfort."

The gleam faded. "But…that all changed when their luxury sky cruise ended with the death of every single member on board…except His Majesty."

Vague dark eyes.

Fatimah opened her mouth, only to close it and look down. "How horrible," she breathed. "I read about that tragedy for one of my classes. It was just awful. You have my condolences for such a great loss."

"Thank you." Yara gathered herself. "His Majesty had only survived because of his Magic—Chess. It's something only the next successor of Bellum can carry and it's not always the oldest child who inherits such an ability. The late king and queen knew His Majesty had inherited it, but with how introverted he was, they knew he didn't want the throne. So they kept it hidden. They made plans with the Bellish Primate of the Holy Eye to Enchant the late king's Chess into his oldest daughter. But…then the accident happened. And His Majesty was forced to take the throne. Too many people had witnessed it."

Fatimah nodded. "But he's in a coma currently, isn't he?"

"Yes…" A strange expression crossed Yara's face. "For the past decade and a half, His Majesty has been in a critical state that no Healer or doctor has been able to resolve. On the one hand, he lives. He's simply in a death-like trance. But on the other hand, because he has been in this coma for so long…the kingdom of Bellum has changed in so many ways that I'm worried I will never have a home safe enough for myself or my daughter. I'm sure…she resents me for leaving her in that country. But"—she gripped the chess piece—"my choices were limited. And this was the best way."

"I see," Fatimah murmured. "Can I ask…how did the King of Bellum and Inayah come into contact?"

The grief that struck Yara's eyes meant those memories were locked away. "That is for another time." She glanced at the doors. "I'm sure your security has been keeping track of how much time has passed with me in here. I shouldn't linger." She looked back at the princess. "But we'll need to meet again. We need to speak more about me coming to the castle and I need to see Inayah beforehand."

Fatimah quickly nodded and held her chin in thought. "Well, at the end of this week, Father will be hosting the annual spring luncheon at the one of the villas for esteemed guests and nobles of Shamballa as a gesture of goodwill and good fortune. But that also means the Pasbans will be out for the occasion."

"'Pasbans'?" Yara echoed.

"Yes. They're the elite guards of Shamballa with abilities that I haven't personality witness," Fatimah confirmed. "They aren't people you'd recognize either. You don't know who a Pasban is. They wear a lot of faces to keep their identities hidden and so that way they can remain inconspicuous doing security detail. Once more, my father has always assured me the Pasbans can't be swayed with human limitations."

Yara's expression sharpened. "So they aren't human?"

"I think that was the hint they weren't," Fatimah affirmed. "I just can't imagine what they would be. Every time Father hosts a luncheon at one of the villas, my siblings and I are warned about the Pasbans doing extra security on us. And my father treasures Inayah. I'm sure she'll be covered the most." Her eyes shifted. "I just wish I understood more about Father and Inayah. Why he chose to marry someone so young. I've never seen her afraid of him. And she's told me that he's a good man to her."

"Perhaps she's trying to be polite since he's your father," Yara suggested.

Fatimah shook her head. "I thought that at first, especially when it came to his announcement of trying for a baby, but she knows my relationship with my father is stained that I wouldn't betray her. But she has no issues telling me about…" Her words stuttered. "Telling me about…Zayed…"

"Your Highness, if you told your father—"

"He wouldn't believe me," Fatimah said sadly. "He considers Zayed his pride and joy. That's why he trusts Zayed as the only other man to enter Inayah's room alone and to sit with her when Father isn't present. He's not allowed to look under Inayah's veil. And Inayah always begs me not to say anything." She clutched her hand to her chest. "I asked her if Zayed threatened her to be silent, but she insists he didn't."

"Which is all the more reason to think he did," Yara finished for her, thinking. But what could he have over her that makes her hide what he does to her? From what I was told, the Emir of Shamballa went through great lengths with Inayah's father to make sure no one would find out about her birth and where she was from. Which bothers me even more. Why did the Emir do such a thing? I should've followed her, but… His Majesty needed me more at the time.

KNOCK-KNOCK-KNOCK!

"Your Highness? Is everything all right?"

Fatimah tensed and called loudly, "I'm fine! The server will be out soon. The food is to my satisfaction." Sighing, she dropped into a murmur. "I suppose you'll need to leave. I'll be accompanying Haya to the three major auctions per my father's request that I make a good impression on our people and build foreign relations. I'll also be in attendance at the fundraising concert at the Expo Dome after the luncheon. I'll ask Father to see if I can get invitations for a friend from university."

Yara chuckled. "Your Highness, I'm a little too old to be your friend from university, don't you think?"

"O-Oh!" Flustered, Fatimah tried to recover from her fumble. "Ah, well, how about an old professor from university? It would fit." Her smile looked strained. "I made more friends with the staff and faculty than I did with other students. I'll say you came here for the festivities and wanted to reconnect. He might look at it in a positive light. And if he tries to reject me, Inayah will ask him to approve and he will."

Yara frowned. "He listens to her?"

Fatimah nodded. "Oh, yes. He made a lot of changes thanks to her." She kneaded her skirt. "To be honest, my father has always been progressive in our faith, which got a lot of lashback from more conservative believers. But when it comes to Inayah, he doesn't waste any time listening to others. If she has something to say or she's uncomfortable with a suggestion, Father makes sure she's heard and comfortable."

Yara thought hard about that. Why is the Emir going to such lengths for her? He changed her name to something more Alakitasian than Andüsan, but he goes to such extremes for her comfort. Why? She got up and gave back the queen chess piece. "You can reach me through our mutual contact. Please, Your Highness, I am begging you for your assistance in this." Clear blues. "Please. Help me rescue Inayah."

"I'll do everything I can." Fatimah looked at the chess piece. "Just like you, I want her to live a happy life. She was robbed of that. So I'll do what I can to help her and you. You have my word."

Yara nodded and gathered the platter. "Then enjoy the rest of your evening, Your Highness. And I hope to hear from you soon."

Gale followed Yara when security let her out and did a quick sweep of the room. His mind was reeling with all the revelations he had uncovered. Holy shit… So the Emira is actually the legal queen of Bellum. Not only that, but the second princess is betraying her country getting the Emira out of here and back to Bellum. But if the king of Bellum is still in his comatose state, that presents a problem.

He detoured away to get back to the main deck. Sure, the marriage certificate in Shamballa is invalid because of bigamy due to the bride, but her marriage certificate from the king could be invalid due to incapacity. Even if he woke up tomorrow, it'll take a lot of therapy to get him up to mental speed. So in reality, if this rescue operation is legit, they would have to wait until the king passes his cognitive tests to display his marriage validity to the Emira.

His eyes darkened. So this luncheon and the fundraising concert in the Expo Dome… As much as this isn't related to the Black Auction, events like that might uncover something about the Black Auction. We need to look into this more.

His hands fisted. What the fuck is wrong with this country?

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Fairy Adventure 140

•

Behind the Scenes

•

舞台の裏側

•

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Bunny Mansion was a dream to visit, so it was no surprise Bunny Mansion Nightclub was where people flocked to.

The champagne ceremony had kicked off with an internationally acclaimed DJ electrifying the nightclub with a popular hip-hop song that had those on the dance floor shaking and popping. Servers were inclined to look the part of a Bunny Girl or Bunny Boy—some with harnesses, some with the iconic rabbit ears, fishnets, and cottontails—but as long as they kept to the theme of the night with their name-tags, it was their choice how to express themselves as a Bunny. The open second floor was made for those who wanted to enjoy the hype and music and energy, but they wanted it without being within the chaos. Some clinked their shrimp cocktail. Others had business matters to speak about. A few had come to celebrate a friend's birthday and the club's three-tier birthday cake certainly delivered.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

« This is Bunny Mansion Nightclub, where many international A-listers, famous personas, and even business executives come to enjoy the perfect nightlife. With custom-made champagne parties, live events, extravagant dinners, karaoke nights, and an outdoor dance terrace, this nightclub has become one of the hottest clubs in Shamballa. This chain is a subsidiary of iconic and risqué Bunny Mansion! »

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

CLINK!

Vinyl and Thirteen had managed to get into the table upstairs with the group with shared platters between everyone and no one had to worry about drinks since Wu had decided to be generous enough to open a tab for the table. A few of the others had gone downstairs to join in on the dancing.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Bunny Mansion Nightclub

Shamballa City

Shamballa, Alakitasia

11:21 PM SST

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Theo got up with his drinks making him flush. "All right. I'm heading downstairs to get some ass. Later."

Wu snickered and took his boyfriend's hand. "We should get down there too, babe." He nodded to Vinyl and Thirteen. "You two in?"

"We're good here," Vinyl assured. "We might make our way down there later once we've had a few more drinks."

"Cool. C'mon, babe."

Thirteen snorted when Wu tried to get a handful of his boyfriend's ass only to be smacked away and have to fumble catching up when his boyfriend huffily power-walked away from him. "Geez. That's just trashy." He nursed his drink some more. "I don't miss being that age."

"What were you like back in your twenties?" Vinyl asked, curious.

Thirteen puffed a brittle laugh. "A fuck-up. I was getting into shit I shouldn't have been way back when. But when wasn't I?" He tilted his drink and saw how whiskey glazed his orange regard. "I was pretty lost back then. Never touched drugs since I'd known how that shit jacked you up. But I was still getting into things I shouldn't have. And I didn't really have anyone to rely on other than myself."

Vinyl's expression dipped in sadness. "I'm sorry to hear that."

"Nah, don't be." Thirteen shook his head. "I wasn't in a place to listen to anyone else." Murky oranges glinted. "I needed to be in that dark headspace so I could realize how much brighter the light could be."

Vinyl blinked. Thirteen…

Thirteen gestured to the party below. "But shouldn't you be down there? We've been pretty much abandoned by the entire table. Thought your twenties were all about saying 'no' to adulting, getting shitfaced, and doing it again in the morning?"

Vinyl burst into laughter. "And you accuse me of getting fantasy mixed with reality!" She amusedly shook her head. "Not a chance. As boring and old lady as it sounds, I'm a lot happier being in my practice studio, thanks."

"How is that 'boring'?"

Vinyl shrugged. "Well, like you said, being in your twenties is supposed to be a lot less restricting. Back home, you were pretty independent as a teenager, but in your twenties, you had real money to do whatever you want." Wistfulness swam through aquamarines. "I was always sort of the wet blanket. Music students are supposed to practice at least three hours a day to keep in shape. Anything more than maybe five hours is excessive. But when you're the heir to the de la Muse title, you have a set practicing schedule for multiple instruments. So I normally turned down my friends' offers for partying and trips."

"You turned them down or your parents did?"

Vinyl smiled at Thirteen's dark question. "It was a combination of both. Make no mistake. I'm not going to sit here and gloss over that my parents were strict as heck," she assured. "They were. I won't deny that. But my grandfather also forced my parents to loosen the reins, so there were times I did have the option. I just…chose to say 'no'. And no, no one pressured me or anything those times."

"Huh."

Vinyl pouted when Thirteen left it at that. "Aren't you going to ask me 'why'?"

Thirteen raised an eyebrow. "Am I supposed to?"

Vinyl puffed a cheek and upturned her nose. "Fine. I didn't want to tell you anyway."

Thirteen sweatdropped. Because that sounds convincing. He sighed and swirled his drink. "Fine. Why did you—?"

"I knew you wanted to know more about me, but you were playing hard to get!"

TICK!

Thirteen clutched his drink with a tick mark twinging his temple at Vinyl's eager, lovestruck expression. Why the Hell do I put up with this?

Vinyl explained, "To be honest, I wasn't that comfortable in large crowds to begin with. I could play a concerto in front of hundreds easily, but partying? It felt so… It just seemed like a lot. And after watching all those movies and shows like Flesh and Euphoric, I was okay staying home and not dealing with all the drinking and drama and recklessness."

"And yet you came to one of the most reckless guilds in Fiore," Thirteen snorted.

"Hey, I didn't have a lot of options!" Vinyl argued, even if she laughed. "And yeah, Fairy Tail's pretty crazy, but it's a different type of crazy." Blues glistened. "It's not the bad kind of crazy with drama and serious fighting. It's…lively. It's caring and adventurous and loud. The symphony I hear in Fairy Tail always has this theme of 'let's go save the world and get drunk doing it'."

Thirteen breathed a chuckle. "That sounds about right." A curious notion came to him. "You talk about music like you can hear it even when nothing's playing."

"Oh-ho-ho…! Does my big, strong man finally want to get to know me better?" Vinyl needled good-naturedly. "Is that it? Should I tell you all my secrets? Hmmm?"

Thirteen deadpanned, "Forget I said anything."

"No, no, I'm just joking, I'll tell!" Vinyl quickly promised. She collected her thoughts and tried her best to explain. "The de la Muse power allows us to Requip and gifts us insane musicality. But also, it lets me hear conceptual music of people and objects. When I'm in a place like this, it's hard for me to hear whatever theme is going on and individual themes sort of clash with everything happening around me, so I have to block it out. But when I'm in less noisy places, I can hear the music of someone's heart and soul."

Thirteen raised his eyebrows. "That's an incredible ability to have."

"Thank you." Vinyl flushed a bit at the compliment. "But really, it's nothing special. At its core, its Soul Magic." Blues shone. "My great aunt was incredibly talented with her gift, or so I'm told. She was able to play music so moving that she singlehandedly stopped a border war with Desierto when she was a little younger than me. She was able to use her powers to play a song that touched everyone's hearts and souls. And she became a dame from that, one of the youngest dames in Minstrish history. I would've loved to see that."

Thirteen looked at his drink. "Your great aunt sounds like one helluva lady."

"She was—is," Vinyl agreed with sadness tinted her words. "I just…wish she knew that too. Now that she can't hear the music anymore, it's like…she's just become a shell of a person. I know she loves me and she loves Grandfather. But her music… It's always so bleak and ominous. It's hard for her melody to ever have major chords. It's just this legato line filled with despair. I just wish I knew what to do to help her find the music again."

"I think you just being there for her was helpful enough," Thirteen murmured. "Don't underestimate your presence. You and your grandfather were probably amazing and positive influences around her."

Vinyl hummed, gaze downcast. "She was just so sad…"

"I'm sure she was," Thirteen agreed. "But no one can make the sad go away, no matter how good and pure their intentions are. The sadness is meant to say. It's up to the person to make room for things besides that sadness. That's not up for you to do. So know you did plenty enough for her, kid."

Thirteen… Vinyl flashed her eyes down with a small smile, a humble pink tinting her cheeks. "Thank you. You always seem to know what to say when I'm feeling down. I wish I could return the favor."

"You don't need to do that."

Vinyl chuckled. "That's what I thought you'd say." She wetted her finger to rim her glass and hear that sparsely-there singing. "You know when people find out about my ability, they normally ask me what sort of music I can hear around them. Aren't you curious?"

Thirteen stiffened. "No."

Vinyl closed her eyes. "Why? Your music isn't anything horrible." She listened closely to the sultry jazz orchestra that pulled her in, that slow blues number that made her think of smoke and whiskey and a hard day's night. "Your music always sounds jazzy, which is pretty rare for me to hear. It swings low. Most people have consistent melodic lines, but it's like you have the band a set of chords, the drummer a basic downbeat, and told everyone to improvise."

The jazz number eased into her soul as the pianist took over and the bandstand backed it up as it wailed. The tenor saxophone flirted with the pianist's solo, charming the tune with its offbeats and runs. "The piano and saxophone play the most in your song," Vinyl lazily told him, relaxed as the song washed over her like silk. "But sometimes…"

As the piano and saxophone fell back, a harmonica cranked up its solo with a profoundly held note and dipped down in its song.

"…I can hear this beautiful harmonica—"

"I said 'no'!"

Vinyl's head pounded for a moment when the music shouted at her before going mute. To her shock, Thirteen was breathing hard with his hands strained as he cracked the table from his grip. "Thirteen?" She dared touch him. "A-Are you okay—?"

"I need to go." Thirteen abandoned the table without a look back.

Vinyl wanted to get up, but her body made the choice of keeping still. She could only watch forlornly as she sped away from the table—from her. Thirteen… She looked down with her heart sunk deep in her chest. Was it something I said? She cradled her hands. Thirteen… What's going on in your head?

She flinched when she heard that nefarious waltz lurk closer and closer. I know that music anywhere.

A smile. "Viñella, you came."

Vinyl looked up. "Hello, Vespers."

Both men had cleaned up appropriately for the Bunny Mansion Nightclub with the top buttons of their shirts unknown. Salentino looked broodier than he had before, but with his hair tussled and those alluring pink lips, he had much more attention on him.

Vespers' smile broadened as he clung to Salentino's arm. "It's good to see you here. Where's your date?"

"Getting more drinks," Vinyl quickly supplied. "Did you just get here?"

"We did." Vespers and Salentino moved to sit down, and a server quickly came by to situate them with drinks and clear our plates. "We passed Theo on the way up here and he told us all of this is on Wu's tab, so we put in our drinks. It's so nice of Wu to do that. I guess when you're destined to own huge companies like MyChat, you have all the money in the world to spend."

Vinyl could only hum her agreement to that and silently thanked the conversational reprieve when the server asked Vespers if he wanted to put in an order. His music has always been obnoxious and sly like the snake of Eden. But… Her attention shifted to Salentino. I couldn't hear his music clearly. Even now, his music sounds…muted. Like someone had intentionally hidden it beneath dampeners. Even without his music, he doesn't look as lively as before.

Blues narrowed onto the withdrawn Salentino and chatty Vespers. What did Vespers do to him? And more importantly, why did he go out of his way to be Salentino's date in the first place?

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

BAKI!

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Thirteen could not give two fucks about how quickly two lovers poorly hidden in the shadows scrambled to get off each other and snatch back on their clothes the moment he blew past them and went to the outdoor patio. The cool night air did nothing to calm his rapidly beating heart and the thin layer of sweat building against his skin. His hands pawed at his face with murky oranges wide and erratic.

A little garden pruned and perfect.

Nausea built up as his hands violently shook.

Little fingers took a golden harmonica from his hands.

A bead of sweat curved his temple.

The music merged with the wind as though all of nature-flora and fauna—stopped to hear such a storytelling melody.

Thirteen shut his eyes as he gripped onto the railing.

The ravens all scattered, the conspiracy revealing splatters of blood on the grass and that damned harmonic.

He squatted down as he tried to keep in his food and drinks—

• — • — • — • — •

His garden might have had a mind of its own, but he knew each and every plant that lived within his fences. He named them all too. It was a gut feeling that his plants enjoyed having their own identities—especially his more drama queen plants that tried to squeeze out pity by withering their leaves if they needed a spritz of water.

A silly smile with a tooth missing. "Mister!"

He turned his head, but all the agitation he wanted to throw at this outsider subsided just a smidge for relief. "Kid—"

BANG-BANG!

Bloody fingers had held onto his harmonica until the end. His flowers had withered and grayed, too distraught to live on. None of the animals would come to pay their respects, too frightened by the conspiracy of ravens haunting the grounds with their red eyes and sleek feathers.

ZAAAA-ZAAAAAA!

GORO-GORO!

A mild cackle. "You shouldn't have gotten a weakness, Vulture."

That son of a bitch stood in the rain with that damned hood on like the coward they were, even if the lightning illuminated their venomous grin. A raven perched their shoulder, and they borrowed themes from a raven with their black attire.

GORO-GORO!

No one came to the funeral.

Because it was in his garden.

The headstone was a rush order and so was prepping the body, but he knew a mortician and a monumental mason and, no, that was not a bonus to this lifestyle. He had done all the digging. No religion touched him—he was too deep in blood to be a hypocrite and think a deity would take him in—so he had no prayers to honor for this day of grief. But he had dressed in his best suit and kneeled at the headstone like he would do so for eternity.

And that damned golden harmonica held still in his cold hand.

"Vulture."

He did not care the man snuck up on him. He did not care the man invaded his haven. Not anymore. What did it matter anymore? He rose to his feet with the harmonica in a death-like grip in his hands. "I'm leaving."

No goodbyes. You did not get far in this industry hanging onto sensibilities like farewells.

"You should leave too before you're next…"

Vibrant reds that looked like the color of blood.

"…Red Eye."

• — • — • — • — •

Thirteen coughed and spat as he tried to trash the overlapping mix of memories and nightmares that gave him bloodshot eyes every morning. With a few wheezing breaths, he could feel his mind shift from past to present, even if the music sounded muted and he did not feel like he was inside his own body. Vague sensations riddled him, like he was a backseat passenger in his own person, but it was better than dealing with daymares.

The worst over, Thirteen closed his eyes and dropped his forehead against the glass fencing. "Shit," he breathed. "These meds aren't working for me at all." He brought a hand down to rub his face. "What the Hell is wrong with me?"

Murky oranges stared down at the high-rise residency that looked like a never-ending party that he did not want to join. What am I doing here? I shouldn't have come. I should've at least brought Georgette. But I didn't want her to get hurt. He closed his eyes—

A smile. "Mister!"

His lashes went half-lidded, murky oranges dark and dejected. All these years…and I haven't gone back to visit your grave. Are you mad at me? Murky oranges glistened. Do you hate me? It was all because of me that you were killed. It should've been me. His jaw clenched. It should've…always been me. You should've never gotten involved with me, you stupid kid. I should've never…

But he could not finish the thought.

His legs found enough strength for him to stand up, but he hunched over the railing. His mouth watered for a cigarette to just take the edge off for just a moment, but he came up empty sifting through his pockets. I'm sure that bastard Coeus stole my cigs. I have a lighter, but no cigarettes. He ruffled his hair. Crazy bastard. He's concerned for my health when he's the one thinking about breaking into his therapist's house just to test her limits. He needs to smoke more than me.

With no vice to help him, he had to rely on his own clusterfuck of a mind. I shouldn't have left her like that. I'm sure she's thinking she did something wrong, when really… Murky oranges trudged in grief. I'm the one who messed up.

He pushed off the railing. I should go back and apologize—

WA-A-A-A-AH! WA-A-A-AH!

Thirteen stiffened. No way… He looked to the skies. Could that be…?

A powerful beaded vulture cut through the skies. It looked like its attention focused on Thirteen and it cried again, "Wa-a-a-a-ah! Wa-a-a-ah!"

Like it was routine, Thirteen whistled and extended his arm. The bearded vulture circled before descending down and flapping its wings to land on Thirteen's arm with practiced ease. It had gotten older in its years and shuffled its feathers, but it made an odd sound of a croaking cackle and chirp seeing Thirteen and bobbed its head.

Thirteen could not believe his eyes. "Lammergeier…"

The bearded culture made that noise again, shuffling its wings.

Thirteen's hand came up to scratch Lammergeier's heat and the magnificent vulture gave a series of tongue clicks before closing its eyes and letting its tail feather shake.

"I…" Emotions stuffed up Thirteen's throat. "I thought…they killed you too when I left. But you're alive. You're alive." All those sentimental emotions dropped from something far more severe and serious. Lammergeier is alive. That…doesn't make sense. Our birds are killed if we abandon the nest, so why—?

"But when you left, Vicious was furious at Raven."

That sentence from Swan stuck out like a sore thumb. Vicious, Thirteen thought. All the birds remain in his aviary. As he let Lammergeier get in its nuzzled and clicks, he let his mind roam. Swan said Vicious never replaced me. But to keep my vulture too… What's his motive? I'm sure he released Lammergeier to find out if I was in the city. He tensed. Is he trying to kill off a loose end? Why wait all these years to finish me off? Is it because of Swan?

That was when Thirteen noticed his bearded vulture came with a tied-on scroll. He was careful in removing it—Lammergeier gave him a love nip, thinking he was playing—and maneuvered to take off the ribbon and look at the message.

Murky oranges thundered. What the fuck is this? Is this for real?

Lammergeier softly bit Thirteen's head in demands for more affection.

Thirteen's jaw tightened. I can't ignore any of this. But this… It seems too fucking good to be true. He looked at his prized bearded vulture. And I need to send a message back. Either way, it won't matter how I reply. I'll be lured in either way. He read the message again. It's been quite some time. I had hoped we would never cross paths again…

The plumage tapped to the scroll appeared thick and almost fur-like.

…Cassowary.

°•°•°•°

"—but Salentino was kind enough to book us on of the penthouse suites!"

Vinyl listened to Vespers bragging with half an ear and her drink to her lips. "That's nice." Her eyes flashed to the exit Thirteen had gone out of. Where is he? Is he okay? Blues ricocheted to the broody Salentino. And why can't I hear his music properly?

"Hey, you made it!"

Theo, Wu, and the others returned for a break from the dance floor and clamored to get spots on the chairside or the booth-side of their long table. Everyone dove in for appetizers and water as they raved about the who's-who they saw and spoke to.

Vinyl held back from conversation while Vespers blossomed under the attention. Like before, Vespers loves being the center. He always had to be the star of every friend group. But in the Vivaldi family, there was only one son everyone turned to.

Stormy dark blues. "Viñella."

Vinyl shuttered the memory. Let's not think about it.

She sighed when she still could not see Thirteen. If he's not coming back soon… Blues observed Salentino. Then I should figure this out. Thirteen told me Vespers could potentially be manipulating Salentino in some kind of way. Blues darkened. I know I should be shocked, but… It would make sense. So many things about Vespers didn't add up. All his partners were driven into isolation and insanity. Even his personal staff would rotate out so often. And he always gave me a bad feeling.

She observed the way Vespers rubbed an unresponsive Salentino's arm. People say talented artists make a deal with the Devil. But in that myth is actually a kernel of truth. My grandfather told me there were great artists who used the Dark Arts to gain power. But in doing so, they were driven to madness. They overdosed on drugs, jumped off buildings—they couldn't handle such corruption. Nowadays, at prestigious universities, mandated Ether tests are common to make sure artists aren't using illegal powers to get ahead in their fame and fortune. I don't want to accused Vespers of doing so, but…

A ring of Magic lit her eyes. Just to test the theory… Her left finger poised to start conducting. Salentino… What beautiful music are you hiding? Her lips moved as her fingers started conducting.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

One, two, three—

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Being at the family vineyard with la famiglia meant life could not get any better.

He walked along the grapes with no purpose in mind. It had been quite some time since he could shed his expensive suits for boots and harshly used jeans and a button-down, but boy did it feel like home lazing about the vineyard to take stock of the grapes (and pluck a few, but do not tell his nonna that). He smiled as he heard his cuginetti giggle and frolic through the vineyard, those little rascals. His nonna's old Record Lacrima played a timeless soprano aria, but he could hear his aunts gossip like all aunts do.

This was good. Life was good.

He turned down the next aisle only to be surprised. There his cuginetto stood like time had not passed, like he had not left his home in a flurry of anger and no regret. He played with their little cousins, but he looked as lovestruck as Saletino remembered. The woman with him was beautiful with all her curves, but her face was not recognizable to him since he had been deprived of an introduction from the few seconds he saw her at his cuginetto's side.

But his cousin was home. Not in Melandia or Pergrande—home. He would not have to listen to his poor zia sob over losing her son. He would not have to comfort his nonna as she asked him to try and reason for her ometto to come back to his roots, to his home.

The old player powerfully delivered the soprano's phrase with the swell of strings and brass.

His cousin recognized him from the distance and got to his feet. "Tino."

He smiled warmly. "Chace." He moved towards him—

"Don't do it."

Confused, he turned his head, but there had been no one around him to say such a warning. Silence answered his puzzlement. Not the aria, not the giggling, not the gossiping—the vineyard was dead quiet as though holding its breath. His brow furrowed. This… This was not right. His gaze swept around. No, none of this was right. Why…? Why was he here? His cousin was in Melandia, readily ignoring his Stellian family. He was on a business trip. Why was he here? Why was he the vineyard when he had work to do?

A violin called to him.

Quickly, he hurried down the aisle, but it felt like for each step he took, another meter of vineyard lay before him. No matter how hard he tried, escape was futile. The sunny day he had bought into had turned cloudy and gray. Behind him, he could hear that odd waltz that violently seduced, but he picked up the pace and ran from it. This was not right. Something was wrong with him.

The violin urged him forward, allegro.

He sprinted to get out—

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

BOCHI!

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Vinyl jerked back with her head throbbing from the piccolo whistle tone. What…? What was that? She looked at the reserved Salentino in utter confusion and dread. His music sounded so beautiful, but… Someone else was conducting it.

"Viñella?"

Vinyl's blood went cold.

Vespers gave her a mocking look of worry. "Everything all right? Your date hasn't been back for a while…"

That nefarious waltz threatened Vinyl. Vespers… He's conducting Salentino's music, but… Blues shimmered, stupefied. Why is he—?

"Viñella."

Relieved, Vinyl looked up to see Thirteen coming back to the table. "Thirteen, I…!" Her greeting faded when a disharmonious blues number jumbled swarmed her once she was in Thirteen's proximity. Something's wrong.

Faking a smile, she got out of her side. "You should have told me you couldn't wait to get back to the room," she teased him.

"Oh." Vespers smiled in kind. "Leaving so soon?"

Vinyl tittered and grabbed Thirteen's hand. "This is our vacation." She winked. "And we want to make the most of it together, so we'll see you all tomorrow!" As she cooed her farewells to the group, she led Thirteen away and her mind felt like it could not focus on one thought. Thirteen's music sounded stressed. Vespers is controlling Salentino's music. What the Hell is happening?

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

SLAM!

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

"The Burj Al'umi Hotel, please," Vinyl asked the taxi driver before she shut the partition. Thirteen still had not spoken a word since she had schmoozed the cabbie service to spot her a taxi, though he had dowsed the worker with a nice tip and made sure Vinyl got in before himself.

But that jumbled rhythm still made Vinyl nervous. "Thirteen? What's going on? What's wrong? Are you okay?"

"We've got some trouble."

Vinyl tried to keep it together. "What kind of trouble?"

"We've been found."

She paled. "By an enemy or a friend?"

"A friend." Thirteen looked at her, oranges clashing with blues. "And that's what makes it worse."

---

"Woooo! After-party time!"

A bundle of teenagers came through the lobby doors. Granted, the lobby was still active this late at night as the restaurants and bar would not close for another few hours and adults used reception as a place to chat and debate. But Elías and a couple of the other boys led the celebratory charge while some in the lobby amusedly shook their heads. Kids will be kids.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Burj Al'umi Hotel

Shamballa City

Shamballa, Alakitasia

11:59 PM SST

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

"Lorraine…!" Elías pounced on his girlfriend. "You should totally lemme sneak into your room tonight while your dad is gone."

Lorraine blushed and scolded, "Elías, you know that's against the rules. Only married couples are allowed to share a room."

"Fine." Elías got down on one knee and kissed her knuckles. "Marry me?"

Cher squealed while the others laughed and poor Lorraine looked redder than a tomato. "Oh-em-gee, like, this is totes romantic!" She whipped out her Compact. "I, like, so have to put this on Toktik."

"Don't you dare!" Lorraine exploded. Harrumphing, she snatched her hand out of Elías' hold and strode away. "I can't believe you would humiliate me, the Lorraine Dior, in public like this, Elías."

"Ay, mi vida, lo siento," Elías whined, catching up with her. A quick few flirty words in Sinnish had the prickly Lorraine softening against her goofy boyfriend.

Julia chuckled as they all corralled to the elevator. "I take it this is normal for all of you?"

Chunhua simpered. "You'll have to forgive Lorraine and Elías. Since they live on different continents and both have busy schedules, being together in person is harder for them. And as you can see, Lorraine has a bit of a complex while Elías is more of a free spirit. People call him the cat-tamer because of her."

Julia could picture Lorraine as a hissy and fussy cat that only pretended she did not like Elías when in reality, she turned into a biscuit-making motorboat under his cooing and spoiling. "Yeah. I can see that."

The gang headed into the elevator and the person closest to the panel pressed everyone's called out floor buttons. And away they went.

Cher latched onto Julia's arm with a beam. "So, like, did you totes like coming out with us tonight? Because we should, like, do it again tomorrow!"

Julia smiled back. "I'd like that. I was worried I wouldn't make any friends here, so I'm glad I met all of you."

"Like, I'm like totes glad to hear it!" Cher cheered. "We'll, like, totes invite you out tomorrow then since we have your number and you're, like, already in our group chat, for realsies!"

"Thank you." Julia softened as she watched the wild group banter and laugh. These people… They feel like Fairy Tail to me in a way. Her eyes glinted at the memories of the guildhall and all the good, the bad, and the drunk.

Chunhua blinked when she caught such nostalgia on Julia's face, but she turned away to softly smile.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

DING!

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Julia waved as she watched the elevator go up even higher with her newfound friend group whooping about an after-party. Had I been back home, we'd be partying until three AM. She turned away and took her time heading back to her suite. Orochi would be handling the bar like a pro with all his fancy drinks. Cane would clean out the older members with some card game. Eiji would be matching Miss Cana shot for shot. Gary would be taking care of a drunk Nashi since she can't hold her liquor.

She snickered thinking back to all the times Justin had the screenshots to prove Nashi was quite the possessive drunk when it came to her man. I guess it's fitting an Angel can't throw it back. Dad would be stuck caring for Mom and she's an overly affectionate, stripping drunk. And Silver…

"Uwaaaaaa! Juju…!"

Julia grew dreary remembering how a drunk Silver would start crying. Well, I hope Ena can put up with him crying a river when he's drunk. He cries a river if there's a spider in his room. He just cries over everything, the crybaby.

But even so, all she could remember was the tender look her brother gifted Ena, adoring, and how shy Ena looked in return. But… It wouldn't surprise me if Ena accepted that sensitive side of him. To be honest, I never thought he and Paige would ever work out. He just seemed too obsessed and infatuated. He still hid himself from her. But with Ena… More and more I see him show her himself. And I'm quite grateful to her for that. He certainly has changed.

"Do you think he changed for the better?"

Julia's smile faded remembering the subtle challenge in that question. Of course he changed for the better. He's actually acting normal and standing up for himself instead of letting his bullies walk all over him. But still…

Venomous mayan blues.

Julia stopped before her twin doors. I don't know why, but that moment from Parent's Day still bothers me. I've never seen him look at me like that—like I was some sort of enemy. I get I crashed on him and Ena talking, but he just looked so…violent. Which isn't like him. He's always been soft and liked keeping the peace over a good fight. But lately, it feels sometimes he wants to start a fight with me.

She clutched her key fob. And I don't know why.

She pressed the fob onto the knob, and the doors unlocked for her. The moment she swept inside and the doors shut and locked, she took off her heels and made her way to the bedroom to disrobe, but she checked the bed with her contacts only for nothing to come up. Huh. Looks like there's no invite tonight.

She made it to the bathroom to pop out her contacts and put them in the special solution and case. As she took down her hair and started her nightly routine, she thought about the events of the day. Insofar, I've learned a little more about the families of these kids. From what I can guess, only Chunhua, Lorraine, and Cher's parents could have potential connections to the Black Auction. Not only that, but the closed-door auctions don't permit them to come as guests, so they don't know what happens. That doesn't mean they don't get invited to big events. They're just as important as their parents, after all.

Hair down and brushed out, she tucked on her makeup headband and started on her skincare routine. But I also learned rumors surrounding Fatimah that can't be traced onto the LacriNet. She's called the 'ungrateful princess' not because of cultural disrespect. She's called that because she had some sort of psychotic breakdown that got her exiled into some sort of temple for an exorcism which they considered 'mental care'. She hasn't been the same from her breakdown. And all any could tell me was that she brought dishonor and shame to her family to the point her entire country quietly badmouths her.

She tried not to frown as she finished her cleanser and went for her cream. Shamballa might be less restrictive as before, from relaxing its alcohol laws and being more open with queer acceptance and support and even enforcing more gender equality, but the one thing this country isn't progressive on is mental health. Having a princess exorcised… Exorcism died out long ago. It makes me even more curious about what happened.

BLIP!

Julia frowned when she saw an unknown number text her personal Compact.

« Hey babe. Wanna call? »

"Ugh…" Julia instantly called the number and put it on ⟪ Speaker ⟫. "I thought you'd be wrapped up in your girlfriend by now, Noko." She frowned at the silence. "Noko?"

"Yeah. I'm here."

Julia blinked hearing the exhaustion in Noko's tone. "Hey. Everything…all right?"

Noko deeply sighed and rustling crackled through. "Yeah, yeah, everything's fine. Just…stressed. And wanted to call to check in on you per my duties as your hot uncle. You may swoon now."

Julia could not even jeer back hearing the bitterness in Noko's flat joke. "Noko? Are you sure everything's fine? You don't sound like yourself."

"Like I said, I'm stressed," Noko repeated, voice tight. "If you're good, I'll go—"

"Hey, wait!" With the cream done, Julia scooped up her Compact. "Noko, you know if you want to vent or rant or something, I'm here, right? I know I can't help or understand, but…" She sighed and lowered her voice. "I'm just as much of your support as you are mine."

Quiet.

"I want to run away."

Navies widened as such a defeated and ragged confession. Noko…

"I just want to run away and get married and take her to a three-month-long honeymoon and she'll come back home with our little sunshine in her belly—!"

Julia seethed, a murderous aura stemming around her. I should have known he couldn't be serious. She pinched her nose. "Noko, the moment is gone. Forget I said anything."

Noko chuckled. "Well, you said I could rant." Three beats. "But seriously, I'm just a little stressed. Normally, I'd be worshipping my honey and getting jealous of the air she breathes, but I'm stuck doing some unexpected work. So I'm being a bad boyfriend and have to cut some of our plans short." His tone dripped in defeat. "She's understanding as fuck because, hello Megan, she's pure perfection in its feminine form, but I know…" His voice quieted. "I know it hurts her since we hardly spend enough time together as is. After this week, it'll be some time until we can see each other, let alone touch each other."

Julia felt her heart soften. Noko…

"That's why I'm getting in all my noogies while I can so I have something to remember for all those hard, hard nights alone—!"

TICK!

A murderous Julia hissed, "Noko, if you want to have the ability to spend those nights alone, shut up."

Noko laughed. "For real, though. Everything good on your end?"

Julia huffed and set down the Compact to put on her toner. "Yeah, yeah, everything's—!" It came to her. Wait a minute. "Noko, hold on, I have a question. Are there people your magi-tech can't register?"

"Of course," Noko said easily. "There are always exceptions to the rule, but there also aren't a lot of exceptions. Why?"

Julia remembered the attractive couple from the night before. They didn't look like anything special. He's a lacrimagame company creator. So why…? She perished the thought. "Mmm, nothing. Just curious."

"Sure, sure. How are you liking Shamballa? Have you been playing nice with the other kids?"

"You make it sound like this is some rich kid playdate," Julia muttered, setting down the compact. With a large exhale, she got to work on dropper serum. "But yeah. I got pretty lucky to meet a group that didn't seem so spoiled. They're actually pretty night." She smiled. "They remind me of home, actually. It's scary how much they do."

"But none of them are involved with the Black Auction?"

Julia's smile faded for sobriety. "The kids themselves? No. At first, I didn't see any point to hang around them, but Prince Zayed attends some of their functions. Even though I'm here to see the Black Auction, I feel like I should keep an eye on the prince." And something is telling me I need to keep an eye on Fatimah too. She piped up and told Noko, "But I did get invited to the opening ceremony."

"And how was it?"

Julia's face darkened. "Disgusting." Her abdomen tugged when she remembered the final auction item. Selling away a woman's children and her own body… How…? How could they do this? And the fact that Gary was once for auction too—was he in previous auctions? A chilling thought occurred to her. What if he already has kids he doesn't even know about?

Quickly, she asked, "Noko, if I asked you to track down possible kids for someone, could you do it?"

"Not now, but that's pretty easy. Who is or are the parent or parents?"

"The Winter Devil."

Silence.

"You…don't have to worry about that."

Julia looked at her Compact in disbelief. "What are you saying?"

Noko sighed. "Let's just say the Winter Devil one-hundred-percent doesn't have little Satans running around. And he never will. You have my guarantee on that."

She felt the burden on her heart lightened and whooshed out a breath. "Oh thank gods," she breathed. It's not that I don't want to tell Gary to never have kids, but…

Despair wracked her. When I think about that poor woman… When I think about those bastards back in February… If he were to have kids, they'd be instantly targeted. I know how much he likes kids. But… Her knuckles whitened when her fists clenched. How am I supposed to tell my own brother he can't have a family?

She took a shaky breath. I… I don't have the right to tell him that. Malicious resolve filled her navies. All I can do is hunt down the Doctor and the Cerberus Hunter. If I can take them down, then maybe Gary could have the freedom to have a family. But still… That woman…

"Noko," Julia called, "at the auction…" She had to push through the disgust. "At the auction, a woman was being auctioned off. To be more precise, her unborn twins and shares for her uterus are being auctioned all thanks to The Doctor. Do you think you could do anything to help her and her kids? She…" She gritted her teeth. "They don't deserve to be treated like animals."

"I'll look into it." And Noko meant that. "But do you see why Maxim invited you to the Black Auction?"

That threw Julia for a loop. "What?"

"Now that you've seen the opening ceremony, do you see why Maxim sent you this invitation?"

Julia's brow scrunched. "Noko—"

BEEP!

Julia turned her head hearing the front doors unlocking. "That's my friend, but… What are you—?"

"You should be on the lookout for more events," Noko said cryptically. "The Black Auction has three levels and each level corresponds with the auction dates on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Friday is the closing ceremony for auction week with a fundraising concert. I already secured you and your plus one tickets. All you have to do is not get caught."

This was a whirlwind of new information. "Wait, slow down," Julia demanded. "Why didn't you tell me this be—?"

Bristling, she growled when the call dropped. What the Hell was that? Some of her ire changed as she replayed Noko's words and his tone of voice. Something about him…sounded off. Normally, he's pretty good with giving me information, but tonight, he just sounded tense. He did say he was stressed, but…

"I just want to run away."

Worry filled Julia. Are he and his girlfriend okay?

"Yo, Lady J."

"Yeah, I'm coming, gimme a sec!" Julia hurried through some of her routine and stopped at her moisturizer to let it sit. Once she slipped on some pajamas, she bustled out of her personal bath and bedroom to witness Gale pacing. Frowning, she asked, "What's wrong?" That was when she noticed they had a formal letter and another velvet box on the coffee table. "And what's this? Where were you?"

"I'm your security, remember?" Gale haphazardly gestured to the invitation and box. "These are our invites to tomorrow's auction as the Nasnas Museum. But we also will be given masks to wear and, once we arrive, we'll be given assigned our numbers."

Julia took stock of the invite and box. So here it is. The next invite. This really is some elitist shit. She looked back at the pacing Gale. "Okay, but what happened to you? What did you learn about the princess? You were dead silent the entire way back."

Gale paced once more before turning to look at Julia. "You're not gonna believe this."

°•°•°•°

"Fuck."

Those were the first words Julia could say.

Once Gale had dressed down and they both had a glass of whiskey with them, he had laid out the entire truth. And he was right. It was truly unbelievable how much he had uncovered.

Julia had to take a moment to scrub down her face with her hands. "Holy shit, that's a lot more than I thought."

"Yeah." Gale sipped his whiskey, hunched forward and grave. "You're telling me. Shit got heavy."

Julia tried to wrap her head around her. So the princess is working in tandem with the king of Bellum's old Healer, who also knows the Emira. The Emira is technically the queen of Bellum. We still don't know the motive for why the Emir married her and, from how it's painted, the Emir isn't the problem. He's treating her well. Hatred burned her in blues. But it's the prince that could be doing unspeakable things to her.

"So." Gale looked at Julia. "What are we going to do?"

Julia looked at him with eyebrows raised. "'We'?"

"Yeah. We."

Julia shook her head. "Gale, that's not our mission—"

"Then what is our mission, Julianna?" Gale challenged her. "What, we attend these Black Auctions just to see how fucked up this world of ours is? Been there, done that, got the t-shirt. Let's be real here for a second. We have no idea why Maxim sent you here. All we know is that he made sure you would attend all three auctions, but for what?" He set down his glass and tapped the coffee table. "But right here and now, we found something. You'd been curious about the second princess and the Emira. Well, here's our in for that."

Julia shot down, "That's above our pay-grade—"

"Oh, don't even start with that," Gale retorted. "Since when is helping anyone above our pay-grade? What, did being in this country make you forget we're part of a guild that has regularly saved Fiore from world-ending obliteration, saved Stella from their annihilation, and still had time to read us bedtime stories?"

Julia grunted her frustration. "I see your point, but what are we supposed to do? This 'Yara' is talking about sneaking the Emira out of the castle, but how the Hell are they supposed to pull that off? Especially when no one knows where the royal family stays every night and then you're telling me about these 'Pasbans' that are some Inhuman militant secret service—"

"Lady J."

Blues clashed with reds.

"You know if our parents were here, they'd be doing the same thing," Gale reminded her. "We're not going to detract from the Black Auction. This is just a side quest. We're Fairy Tail. We don't let good people get dragged into Hell." He added when Julia remained quiet, "And you threw away all your Magic to take on two abominations of people by yourself. You can't sit here and say this is above our pay-grade."

Well, what could Julia argue about that? She held her face in her hands instead, thinking. He's not wrong. I know it's considered arrogant for doing what I did and thinking I could take on these criminals by myself. I want to say its different. I'm doing it for my family, but… Yara… Fatimah… Aren't they going to such lengths because Inayah is their family? It must've taken a lot of courage and guts for them to come this far. Just like it took everything I had to survive severing ties with my Magic…and getting revenge on my brothers' tormentors.

With a deep breath, she left her head and pulled back her hands. "Do you have Yara's scent?"

"Yes," Gale affirmed.

Julia nodded, contemplative. "I'm sorry, but we'll need to rely on your psychometry again. We can't speak to the second princess without rising levels of suspicion. Considering all of society has avoided her, if two unknowns started speaking to her, I'm sure we'd be looked into. But if we can track down this 'Yara Sandström', you'll need to touch her and verify she legitimately wants to help Inayah and why. But don't waste any opportunity. Your psychometry could be the key to unlocking who is part of the Black Auction. And also"—navies darkened—"if you meet the prince, use your powers so we can confirm what he's doing to Inayah."

"Right. Got it."

Julia blinked catching Gale's grin. "What?"

"Looks like being a hardened Hunter doesn't change you're a Fairy Tail Mage at heart."

Julia snorted. "Shut up. 'Course it doesn't change anything." Her jesting fell for a memory. "I participated in Assassination Week because my dad asked me to since Silver planned to do something with Ena. To be honest, I had no intentions of doing so, but…" She sighed. "If I turned him down again…"

• — • — • — • — •

"But…are you sure?"

It was not like it was uncommon for Gray to take Julia out for induvial father-daughter time. It was more common, actually. Considering their cool temperament matched, they were more content nursing a good drink at a calm bar and having affable silence as bonding time.

Not to say they did not enjoy full-on family time, but dealing with a drunken lovesick Juvia trying to take off her clothes, crying drunk Silver who would even bawl if someone showed him a cute puppy picture, and Gary who looked drunk because of the way he raved about his precious Angel—

Well. The point was made.

Gray nodded when the server came back to collect their empty glasses and dish out fresh drinks and some water. Once he left, Gray continued: "I'm sure. Silver let me know he'll be partnering with Ena for Assassination Week." His lips twitched. "He nearly had a breakdown trying to tell me he couldn't be part of my plan with Gajeel and Natsu. I told him it was all right. Ena is a good partner to have, but, well…"

Julia snorted, stirring her cocktail. "He's such a crybaby."

"He's sensitive," Gray gently corrected. "He's just like your mom, a lot more in touch with his emotions. And there's nothing wrong with that at all."

Julia gave an unconvinced hmph to that. "Yeah, right."

"But we're not here to talk about Silver," Gray carried on. "I meant what I said. Gale and Nashi have decided to take on Master alone. They have something they want to prove to her, and we respect that. But Natsu has been wanting to see Luke's improvement up close and personal. And Galileo…" He sighed. "Gajeel…just wants to make sure he's doing all right."

Julia looked down. "Leo's been pretty quiet lately."

"I know." Gray fiddled with his drink. "He reminds me of how Gary can be. And just like Gary, only Galileo can be the one to push himself to get out of bed." He took a healthy gulp before gathering the words he wanted to say. "But…it's been a long time since we've sparred together, you and me."

Julia tensed. "Yeah." She kept her voice normal. "I told you. I just prefer to do my own thing."

"I see."

Julia tried not to show how rattled she was. 'Does he know? No, he can't know. I've been so careful.' Her heart pounded. 'Did Luke say something to him? No, he promised he wouldn't say a word. But… Linus…' She gripped her straw. 'Did he say something? Is he that mad at me? He's the one who shot me down. Is this some sort of revenge for me being with Eiji?'

"Silver was the one who recommended you join us."

Now that startled Julia. "Silver did?"

"Mmm-hmm." Gray took another swig with his eyes on his daughter. "He said he always envied how flawlessly you could work Water and Ice Magic together. You know your brother. As much as he doesn't say it, I know he's not as big of a fighter as you or Gary. And that's completely fine. As long as he's happy. But he said you'd be perfect for the fight, given how strong your powers have gotten. And I have to agree with that."

"O-Oh." Julia smiled. "Really? Thanks, Dad." In her mind, she could not hold down a single thought. 'Silver said that? But…why? He's never brought up my powers before. He never wanted to spar with me since he cried I'd be too hard on him. So why now? No, I shouldn't overthink. This is Silver. He was probably trying to help Dad out and make sure his spot was filled.'

"So?"

Observant darkness connected with navy.

"Do you want to join in?" Gray asked her. "Do you want to show Master and all of us what you can do?"

Julia blinked. 'Why does it sound like he's testing me?' She forced her smile to widen. "Sure! That's sounds perfect!" Yeah. Perfect.

• — • — • — • — •

Julia kept replaying that memory. I don't know why, but it felt like Dad was watching me closely. I was lucky Genius had the Jupiter Gun ready. And I gave the excuse Genius wanted me to test out his new weapons. That wasn't a lie, but… Her skin prickled. Dad watching me… Silver recommending me… And then Linus… Why does something feel off?

"You know you'll have to tell them eventually."

Julia briefly closed her eyes. "You know it's not as simple as that. And I'm pretty sure Master knows anyway…"

"Forget Master. The woman knows everything about everything," Gale claimed. "Lady J, the longer you keep hiding you aren't a wizard anymore, the more suspicious people are going to be of you—"

"I covered all my bases, didn't I?" Julia reminded in a snap. "I even shelled out jewel so for a fake implant so people still 'sense' I'm a Wizard—"

"The fuck does that matter if push comes to shove and they find out you aren't a Wizard anymore?" Gale retorted. "You thought short-term, Lady J, but you need to think long-fucking-term. The truth is going to come out one day. Either you get in front of it or you watch it from behind."

"Is that a threat?" Julia challenged.

Gale laughed in disbelief, shaking his head. "Wow. Okay."

Julia huffed. "Look, I'm sorry. I didn't mean it like that, but you know I can't just…come out with this. I'm a Hunter. How well do you think that's going to go over with everyone? And not to mention if I have to tell them why I became a Hunter, then…!" She sighed. "It's just…not the right time."

"Then when will be the right time?" Gale quietly asked.

Julia had no answer to that.

Gale got up. "You know, you aren't the only one with a valuable secret. And a secret like that kept long enough could do damage you can't recover from." He finished his drink and set down the glass. "It's been a long day. I'm calling Blondie and going to bed." He walked away—

"I just…"

Gale paused.

"I just…want to protect them." Julia confided in a murmur. "All I've wanted to do is protect them. With Magic, I couldn't do that. But with Anti-Ether, I can. What's so bad"—navies shone—"about protecting the people I love the most?"

A hush.

"Have we…really been protecting them?"

Perplexed, Julia lifted her head. "What do you…?"

"I'm not saying they don't need protection," Gale said, pushing back his bangs. "But Gary knows much more about his enemies than we do. And he probably understands everything he needs to do to protect himself, things we can't even comprehend because we weren't there. But we saw Silver. We were there. Can you really say we protected him?"

"Maybe not in that moment," Julia said, "but we've done a lot for him—"

"Are you sure about that?"

Bewildered navies clashed with solemn rubies.

"What are you…?" Julia did not understand. "What are you trying to say?"

Gale's stare went to the side. "I'm saying…maybe we've been handling things wrong. Maybe…Silver never needed the protection you think he does. He didn't need to change and hide. He just…needed acceptance."

"What the Hell are you talking about?" Julia groused. "We did and do accept him. You saw him back then. They bullied mercilessly him, Gale. We did what we had to do to show him he needed to fight back against those bastards and how he needed to protect himself. You know that."

Gale sighed. "Yeah, well, I'm not so sure that's what we did anymore." Rubies went half-mast. I was there when he was getting bullied. I thought we did the right thing, but…

"Why can't you be nice to him?" Angry browns and the spicy scent of fury. "Why can't you just accept him?"

He felt a stir in his heart. I thought…that's what we did, but… I think we did something even worse.

"Yeah, well, I know my brother a lot more than you do," Julia snapped. "He's safe now. That's what matters."

Gale half-heartedly snorted. "Yeah." He rubbed down his face. "I'm going to bed. Get some sleep. We have a long day tomorrow."

Julia sat back in her seat when Gale disappeared into his bedroom and shut the door. What the Hell is everyone talking about? Silver's safe now. He's not getting bullied anymore. And I'll do what I have to to make sure no one else touches him. So he never has to cry like that again.

Angrily, she finished her drink and abandoned the living room to stalk into her room. Why am I getting so upset about this? This isn't like me. She tried hard to calm down as she went to the small safe the hotel provided her room. Typing in the combination, she took out her personal Compact and saw all her messages and notifications. He's safe now.

Flopping into bed, she pulled up her message thread with Silver. Before she could regret it, impulsivity took over, and she typed out a message:

« Hey. Just checking in to make sure you're okay. How's Caelum? »

She went to send it, but she hesitated. He's fine. He's safe.

She deleted her messages and ignored Eiji's own to lie on the bed. I'm doing the right thing. I'm protecting the people I love. Her arm came up to cover her eyes. So then why—her grip on her Compact tightened—do I still feel so shitty?

---

Shamballa might not have been a natural green country given its position near the equator, but with enough time and money, the sandy land of a person's yard could turn into a certified greenhouse. The great mansion with its sandstone and white colors thrived amongst green grass, palm trees, and mosaic-tiled pathways and courtyards. No one entered or exited this estate without approval clearance and with it being so late into the night, the lights of the estate had been turned on and made the mansion look religious in a way.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

« This is Methuselah Mansion, one of the several residences the Emir and his family stay at. The mansion has two Al Rukh or Rocs that live on the grounds for pleasure and act as guardians on the mansion. It is said the Rocs were brought over as gestures of goodwill between the late Emperor Zeref and a former Emir. »

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

A black limousine ferried down the winding driveway. Guards at checkpoints made sure to permit the limo to pass through the multiple fortified barriers and physical gates set up. The head staff awaited at the mansion entryway once the limo rounded to the front. Valets were at the ready to open both sides of the door to reveal Zayed and Fatimah stepping out, Zayed immensely satisfied while Fatimah looked demure.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Methuselah Mansion

Shamballa City

Shamballa, Alakitasia

12:31 AM SST

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

An older gentleman in his humble robes came forward and bowed to the prince and princess. He greeted them in Shamballan, "We welcome home the Sheikh and Sheikha of the Emirate of Shamballa, and we hope your time out was most enjoyable."

⌜METHUSELAH MANSION

Name: Zabeel Haddad

Age: 68

Occupation: Master of the Household

Likes: sailing Dislikes: his wife's ribbing

Special Note: Zabeel might not be from Shamballa and loves his home country Hekayon, but he has a fierce loyalty to his country and his wife! ⌟

Fatimah went to say her gratitude—

"We had a great time, Zabeel." Zayed's resemblance to his father was uncanny with his broad form and strong jaw. But every time he smiled, older staff would always say he got his effortless smile from his graceful mother. "Thank you for waiting up for us. We hope we didn't keep you up for too long." His smile broadened, mischievous. "Your wife will give me an earful if I kept you after curfew."

⌜THE EMIRATE OF SHAMBALLA

Name: Zayed bin Kamir Al Marwan

Age: 22

Occupation: Prince of Shamballa

Likes: horseback riding Dislikes: being told he has his mother's smile

Special Note: Zayed is an avid cricket, rowing, and polo player and just finished his studies in the US in political science and linguistics! ⌟

Zabeel adjusted his glasses, all cordial and proper. "Don't mind her, Your Highness. She merely over-worries about me—"

"My ears are burning."

Zayed, Fatimah, and Zabeel looked at the woman descending the steps with simple make-up, crow's feet, and a full head of thick light ginger hair that brought out the russet tones in her eyes. She gave a good-natured narrowed look towards both men. "Which means someone is talking about me."

⌜METHUSELAH MANSION

Name: Nouhad Haddad

Age: 70

Occupation: Treasurer of the Household

Likes: embarrassing her husband Dislikes: reality LV

Special Note: Nouhad is Hekayese, the same as her husband! She used to be quite the singer in her prime! ⌟

Zayed bowed with a grin. "I wouldn't dare talk about such an esteemed person of my staff."

"I've known you since you were in diapers, Your Highness," Nouhad reminded with a smile. "Ignore my overly-talkative husband. The only reason he has a curfew is that I know if I didn't place one, he'd work himself into a fortnight with no sleep."

Zabeel coughed, flustered. "You shouldn't say such things about my character to His Highness."

Nouhad laughed at his expensive. "I think he would appreciate my candidness."

"I can agree with that," Zayed chuckled.

"E-E-Excuse me?" Fatimah clasped her hands for support when attention turned to her and she could feel their good mood fall flat. Tightening her grip and lifting her chin, she asked, "Are Father and Mother residing at the mansion tonight as well?"

Zabeel's expression turned solemn. "Why do you ask, Your Highness?"

Fatimah tried not to show her trembling. They…aren't even going to answer my question. I'm a Sheikha, but they'll still question my motives against my own father and Inayah.

"Don't be so hard on her, Zabeel," Zayed soothed with ease. "I'm curious about it too since I know Haya is staying at one of the other villas with her fiancé. I was hopeful to see Father and our darling Emira." His smile broadened. "I brought her back a gift. I wanted to give it to her personally."

Fatimah bit her bottom lip even when her stomach clenched. How could he be so shameless like this?

Yet no one else saw it that way. They all looked quite pleased their prince acted with grace towards his stepmother. So much so that Nouhad commented, "You sweet boy. Still caring for the Emira as if she's your own mother. She and the Emir are staying at a different residence for the evening. The Emira and the Emir requested they have tonight alone at one of the states." Her eyes brightened. "Perhaps we'll hear good news soon."

Zabeel sputtered. "Nouhad, please—!"

"No, Zabeel, it's fine. We're all thinking it." Zayed looked delighted. "I hope to hear good news too. I've always wanted a little sibling." He chortled. "Growing up the baby in the family might've been nice, but I always wanted to pass on all my knowledge to a little brother." His eyes gleamed. "Or maybe a son."

Fatimah's expression twitched as she grew sick with her eyes wide. He… He can't mean…

Nouhad simpered. "Goodness, Your Highness, you're only in your early twenties and already thinking about your heirs. It's so nice to see such a forward-thinking sheikh always thinking about the future of our country." Her eyes turned cold as her gaze pinned to Fatimah. "Unlike others."

Fatimah swallowed.

Zayed clapped his hands, grinning. "Well, I think my dear sister and I will turn in for the night. If possible, please have a warm bath ready for me." He turned his grin onto his sister. "Are you ready to turn in for the evening? Haya and I have a long day of events to bring you to."

Fatimah could feel her ears burn in humiliation. He just wants to remind me how much no one wants to deal with the 'ungrateful princess'. She gave a small nod. "I'm ready to turn in."

Zabeel nodded his approval and gestured to both royals. "I'll have the servants prepare for your evening night rituals. Your attendants are ready to escort you to your apartments—"

"I'll escort Fatimah to her apartments before I go to my own, Zabeel." Zayed offered his arm to his older sister. "It's been a long day for her and it'd make me feel better helping her back. I'm the one responsible for her coming with me to the yacht party, after all. Right, Fatimah?"

Fatimah held back her rejection. I can't turn him down. If I do—she could feel judgment and displeasure radiating from everyone around her—I'll put myself in a worse position with the staff.

"Y-Yes." She hooked her arm with Zayed's. "Thank you."

"Of course." Zayed showed off that white smile. "Anything for my darling older sister."

Fatimah kept quiet as Zayed led her into the mansion. Her shoulders hunched and her skin burned feeling all the disapproving stares on her. I know I'm not wanted here. Even if a bath is drawn for me, I'm sure it'll be with cold water. And my attendants will leave me to dress for myself too. Her lips trembled. All because they say I'm 'ungrateful'. But how can I be grateful for living in this country and knowing what is beneath it?

The inside of the mansion was just as extravagant with attendants ready to greet them with bows. Zayed warmly greeted the reception, and the staff regarded him with slight awe at their prince. But Fatimah knew better than to look up. She knew if she did, she would either catch mistrust or disinterest in the staff like she was nothing more than a nuisance.

Zayed patted Fatimah's shoulder as they came up the grandiose staircase and headed for her wing. "Don't worry. Once you show Father that you're much more responsible and poised than you were before, you'll gain back the trust and admiration from the staff. Just attend some more events with Haya and me. Everything will work out fine, I promise. And you still have us, Fatimah. We still want you to come with us and show everyone how brightly you shine."

Fatimah slightly turned her head to see workers lurked in the hall as they finished their nightly cleaning. He's just acting kind to me to keep up his reputation. Just like Haya. She put on a trying smile. "Thank you, Zayed. I appreciate all your help easing me back into society. Tonight was really fun."

"I'm sure it was." Something in Zayed's smile sharpened. "It's a shame you hid downstairs for a majority of the party. But I understand you're still nervous after your outburst."

More humiliation piled onto Fatimah as she was certain the workers overheard Zayed's declaration. Why does he have to bring that up now? "Y-Yes." She clutched her skirt. "I was…worried I could possibly bring shame to the family, so I stayed in one of the suites below. I guess that sort of event wasn't for me."

"That's fine. We have plenty more events for the week," Zayed assured her. "Don't feel like you have to push yourself. We wouldn't want another outburst." His eyes darkly glittered. "We might have to take you back to the mosque."

Fatimah's eyes widened as chills went down her spine.

Zayed came to Fatimah's door with guards already stationed. He needed no words to the guards, but he gave them anyway. "If you'll excuse me for a moment, I'm going to help my sister settle in before retiring to my apartment. Please make sure we aren't disturbed until I leave the room." He opened the door and guided Fatimah inside.

Her apartments had been cleaned spic and span with all the gold and jewels polished so well that a person could see their clear reflection. One doorway would lead to a private study. Another would lead to her bedroom. Another would lead to her bath. But this main room was the sitting area with a Lacrima-Vision, ornate furniture, and looked more like it came from a catalog than being lived in.

Fatimah got far enough before she took back her arm and confronted her brother, even if she could not stand tall and firm. "What did you want to say to me?"

"Don't be so cold, Fatimah." Zayed's grin looked more like a smirk. "Can't a brother walk his mentally ill sister back to her room?"

Fatimah's skin caught gooseflesh, but no matter how hard she wanted to, she could not use her voice and stamp back such a heinous question. Cupping her elbows, she asked him again, "What do you want from me?"

"Nothing." Zayed raised his hands in mock surrender. "Honest. I was just concerned about your well-being. After all, you've had such a hard time getting back into your royal duties after running away from home. I know…hard it was for you to adjust after you returned." He circled her with slow steps. "You were so jumpy and frantic, those days leading up to your international escape. Your meltdown was one for the history books. I'm just worried it could happen again. Your reputation is already in the dirt. You wouldn't want it to be even worse."

Fatimah locked her jaw even if her heart pounded fast. "Get to the point, Zayed."

"Fine." Behind her now, he put his lips close to her ear. "I know you're planning something regarding Inayah."

Fatimah's eyes widened.

"You can't even deny it." Zayed sounded too amused for his own good. "It's not like if you did I'd believe you. Haya was always better at bullshitting. Then again, she was always better than you at everything. She certainly got all the good traits from our parents, unlike the ungrateful princess who went through a disastrous psychotic episode."

Fatimah shook and croaked, "What do you want?"

"You should know that." Zayed came before her and his face showed no kindness or mocking, only dark promise. "Don't even think about taking Inayah away from me."

Fatimah's stomach knotted. "Sh-She's our step-mother—"

"Oh, don't act so coy and loving now," Zayed tossed aside. "She's as old as we are. We only call her 'mother' to show the people we accept her and to show Father he can trust us around her. The only reason Haya acts like her event scheduler and do-nothing-wrong daughter is to push Father into crowning her the next ruler. But we both see how pitifully you cling to her and cry to her. I let it slide since you knew how to keep your mouth shut. But if you take her away from me…"

Fatimah's breath hitched when Zayed grabbed her hair.

"…I'm going to make sure your life is completely ruined in this country," Zayed hissed.

Tears crowded Fatimah from the stinging pain. "She's our family, Zayed," she forced out.

"She's not family until she bears the next child in our family line—which should be soon." Zayed made sure Fatimah saw the darkness in his eye. "We've been trying hard for a boy."

Fatimah coughed and gagged when Zayed tossed her away like she was nothing. Her knees gave out and she crumbled on the ground. "Father," she rasped. "When Father finds out—!"

"And how will he?" Zayed loomed over her, bored now. "He's the sick bastard who married a woman half his age and even now, he's trying to knock her up for another successor to establish his dominance. And it's not like he'll believe you." A chilling look crossed his stare. "He's not going to believe the crazy daughter who accused him of sending an arsonist to burn down our villa and kill our mother."

LUBDUBLUBDUBLUBDUBLUBDUB!

Zayed stooped down while Fatimah's mind was reeling. He looked at his older sister in pure contempt. "If you're thinking about taking away the mother of my child, I'd think again. But I hope you'll be happy for us when we hear she's pregnant." He twirled a lock of Fatimah's hair. "You used to tell Haya how much you couldn't wait to be an aunt—"

SMACK!

Zayed's lips twitched when a glossy-eyed Fatimah glared at him. His hand stung a little from the slap. "Don't tell me you're going to have another outburst? The guards are outside, you know. They'll take you away to the mosque again."

"You make me sick," Fatimah hissed through her teeth. "You're disgusting and vile and I hope you rot for everything you've done to her. I'm not going to let you get away with this."

"But haven't you already?" Zayed cocked his head. "You're the one who knew what happened every time I came home from university, and you didn't say anything. You even gave us privacy when I was already in her room. So doesn't this mean you'll rot in Hell with me since you're just as vile as me for keeping quiet?"

"That's…!" Fatimah's argument lost as she looked down in shame and self-loathing. He's…not wrong.

"But it's not like you had a choice, right?"

Fatimah looked up as Zayed patted her shoulder. "What do you…?"

CRACK!

Fatimah winced when a sharp pain cracked down from Zayed's heavy hand. "Ow—Mmmph!" With Zayed's hand on her mouth, she looked at her smiling brother in terror.

"You see, I'm actually grateful for your breakdown," Zayed said lightly. "Thanks to you being so untrustworthy and ungrateful, no one would believe a word you were saying. But you can go ahead and try. Really. I encourage you to tell everyone about me and Inayah. Because, in the end, they'll still look at you like you're insane and exile you. And I'll have Inayah to myself without your interruption. You get to leave the place you hate and I get to be happy. Everyone wins."

TICK-TICK-TICK!

Zayed reached into his pocket and pulled out a silver pocket watch. "It should be about time. I have somewhere to be." He let go of Fatimah to pocket the watch again. He did not even spare her a glance as he turned. "I hope you have a good night—" But his gait stopped when fingers pinched his pantleg and Fatimah was the culprit with hair curtaining her face.

"Why?" Fatimah's question came out low. "Why are you doing this?"

Zayed tilted his head with a grin. "You really have no idea what our little stepmother is, do you? The real reason why Father spent a month spoiling her in jewels and riches until she agreed to be his dutiful little wife?"

Fatimah stiffened. He… He knows why? She blurted, "Then tell me why you're doing this—!"

LUB-DUB!

Fatimah could not get out her words when she felt invisible chains shackle her and constrict her from the inside. Immense pressure and that damned feeling of dread threatened to capsize her if she tried to fight back. I… I can't move. And this pressure… I feel like I'm dying.

"Fatimah." Zayed looked down from the bridge of his nose with not hatred or maliciousness but cold and callous contempt written on his face. "I'm getting awfully tired of your pathetic act. It's boring. All you need to know is that Inayah is someone special. And she will have my child. I do hope you'll be happy for your niece or nephew in the future. And that you won't be as reckless to take her away from me. Because then I'll have to do something reckless." He turned away from her. "And you'll wish you died in that fire with the bitch who gave birth to us."

Tears blurred Fatimah's vision, but she could not even sob when the doors to her apartments opened and shut and she was all alone. Why…? She heaved a shaky breath as she clutched her skirts. Why…? Why does she have to suffer like this? Why do I have to suffer like this?

Please, Your Highness, I am begging you for your assistance in this." Clear blues. "Please. Help me rescue Inayah."

Fatimah lifted her head and cleared her tears the best she could as pure wrath set in. Inayah… I'm going to get you out of here. Even if I can't escape, I can help you leave this awful place. She took out the queen chess pieced and clutched it fiercely. No matter what it takes.

---

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Fairy Adventure

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

---

The hotel rose as the sun did, or that was their motto. Breakfast was open for business and already, preordered meals were hurriedly being delivered to make time quotas. The theme park would not be open for a few hours, but some guests had taken the opportunity to use the gym, do some morning laps at the pool, hurriedly join in one of the offered yoga classes for guests, or go into the prayer room for morning prayer.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Burj Al'umi Hotel

Shamballa City

Shamballa, Alakitasia

7:49 AM SST

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Normally, Gale would have woken up early for a hot-as-sin shower, taking care of his morning problem, a quick workout, and then hope to the gods Julia had made coffee, but sleeping in felt like a better option for his mental state. He pinched his nose as he groggily roused himself before breaking into a stretch. It took some courage for him to open his eyes, but at least he did not feel so perpetually exhausted that he had raccoon eyes.

Yesterday was insane, he thought. I can't believe we got roped into all his shit. The conspiracy around the king of Bellum's comatose state… The Emira… The second princess and the prince… This 'Yara Sandström'. He scrubbed his face. Ugh. And I thought explaining the menstrual cycle to Liberty was complicated.

You don't have to do this.

Gale hmphed. Oh, so, now you talk to me. When are you going on mute this time, Mom?

Sycaña did not acknowledge his sarcasm. You do not have to take part in these affairs, Little Gem. They are not your responsibility.

Okay, no, maybe not, but I'm not about to just dip after hearing everything I heard yesterday, Gale reasoned. That's not my style. If we can help in some way, then we should. He yawned and popped his Compact off its charge. I thought you'd know that by now.

What I know is that you will get hurt tempting with fate and meddling in affairs that are not yours, Sycaña rumbled. You are not like these humans. You are a Dragon, the granddrake of Metalicanna and son to me, the mighty Sycaña. You cannot afford to be careless. You are invaluable.

I know that, Gale thought slowly. But I'm not being reckless.

So you said about Tāne's Forest and you ended up in a half-dead state.

Gale scowled. Well, if you'd just tell me about what happened—

I don't need to tell you what happened so you can exercise caution, Sycaña rebuked.

Gale shot up. So something did happen to me and you are hiding!

Sycaña hesitated. All you need to know is that you are safe, she quietly told him. But you will not be safe for long if you continue to act impulsively and meddle in things that are not yours to meddle with in the first place. You need to protect yourself. You need to protect your Heart.

That confused Gale. My 'heart'? What are you talking about? Do you mean the organ or my feelings?

Sycaña sighed. I… Never mind.

Wait, no, don't—! Gale growled and wanted to throw a tantrum when he felt Sycaña block him. Fuck! He fell back onto the bed. Why do parents think being cryptic about shit helps teach life lessons! Where is the evidence to support that it's effective!

Sighing out his frustration, he contemplated Sycaña's words. But… She did drop me a hint about why she's being so tight-lipped. Protect my heart… Did she mean my physical heart or my emotions? I don't plan to have my organs harvested at any time. So then…my feelings? Is she…trying to hint something about Blondie? He thumbed his Compact. I wonder if she's up… He took a chance and decided to FaceCall her as he turned onto his side.

The call connected during the second ring to show an adorably shy Luna. "Hi."

Gale lazily smiled. "Morning, Blondie-girl. Sleep okay?" He perused her outfit and his Wild felt immense pride and satisfaction seeing one of his old metal shirts on her. "Wear my shirt?"

"L?" Ena's call came across, distant. "I'm sure you and your heathen want some privacy, right? Silver and I wouldn't want to hear anything scandalous."

Gale's eyes narrowed. Silver…

Luna blushed like mad. "It's not like that!"

Gale shifted as the screen went dark. I'm sure he's enjoying his time with Big Red, but… Rubies glinted. It just…reminds me of last night…

Luna came back onto the screen and seemed to be in her bed. "Hi again," she greeted, singsong. "And good morning." Her good mood faded fast looking at Gale. "Is everything okay? You look a little down. Are you tired? Have you been sleeping well?"

Gale chuckled. "What's with the twenty questions, Nurse Dragneel? I'm all right." He rubbed his cheek before stretching out. "Would've slept better with you here, though."

Luna giggled. "That sounds something a fuckboy would say."

Gale burst into laughter. "Where the Hell did you learn that?"

"I'm not that clueless!" Luna told him poutily. "And Carlisle taught me about them when we were waiting for you and Mister Dante. 'Fuckboy or nice guy'. It's a fun guessing game about all the boys we see if they're a fuckboy or a nice guy."

"Oh, really?" Gale imagined shoving Carlisle on a train and sending him far, far away (and hopefully avoiding Dante's interrogation when he realized his townhouse was wrongfully quiet for once). That little shit just wanted to check out guys and roped Blondie into it. He propped his head on a fist. "So what's the verdict? Am I a fuckboy?"

"That's what Carlisle said."

TICK!

Gale smiled through gritted teeth and his eyebrow twitching. "Oh, did he now?" Carlisle, you better lockdown Prince if you don't want me to come after you. He rolled onto his back. "I'll have you know, Blondie, that I don't meet the criteria for a fuckboy, all right? I'm a nice, sweet guy."

Luna snorted. "No, Silver is a nice, sweet guy. You're nothing like him."

Rubies softened. 'Silver', huh?

Luna carried on: "Anyways, how was your—?"

"Blondie?"

She paused. "Yeah?"

He wanted to word this properly. "Is Silver…happy in Caelum? With Big Red?"

"Oh, for sure!" Luna chirped, petting Icarus. "It's been great here and we're all having a lot of fun!" She glanced around before humorously lowering her voice. "Actually, Silver took E into the pool last night."

Gale raised an eyebrow. "For real? I thought witches melt in water."

"Quiet, you," Luna playfully growled. "It was honestly so cute. Watching them together…" A fond look came over her face. "I had…a future vision of them."

That caught Gale's attention. "Were they together?"

"Yeah." Luna affectionately smiled. "I couldn't understand it at first. I didn't think it was them, but… It was. They looked so beautiful and good together. I know I shouldn't meddle with someone else's relationship, but I like seeing who they are around each other, y'know? E used to be so silent and distant from everyone and now… She's open to going to the guildhall and talking. And Silver used to hide everything he loved. But now…" Browns glinted. "It's amazing watching him be more comfortable in his own skin again. I mean, I was happy Silvern never hid from me, but my greatest wish for him…was to show the world who he was."

Those words resonated with Gale. Silver…

He vividly remembered their younger days with how happy Silver looked learning how to knit to how focused he looked when his mother and Gale's mother helped break him into makeup and were more than happy to bring him to stores to get what he wanted. But horrifying memories tarnished the good ones. The one that stood out the most was a sobbing Silver dowsed in pink paint as he hid in a corner.

"I'm fine!" Grief-stricken blues. "Just leave me alone!"

Gale took a deep breath through his nose. I used to think it was pathetic he didn't fight back—that I needed to fight his battles for him if he wasn't going to. That he needed to be stronger. And I wasn't going to change my mind on that. But now, when I look back on those memories, it reminds me of someone long ago.

• — • — • — • — •

"Don't get this wrong. I'm not fighting for you. I didn't do this for you."

The focus, staring at the scratches and bruises and bloodied arms, looked up to stare at their savior.

"I'm not about to fight your battles for you," came warning. "The only reason I did it once is because you looked pathetic. She can't hurt you anymore, but others can. So don't think this is over. I'm only doing this to show you you don't have to live like this anymore."

A hand extended to the focus.

"You're allowed to live in this world as yourself. She was never gonna accept you. And there might be bad guys out there who will never accept you. But who fucking cares? Show them up. Make it so they have no choice but to accept you as you." Strong emeralds glared down at him. "So take my hand now. And show the world who you are."

• — • — • — • — •

Gale laid an arm across his eyes. I thought if I told Silver that, he'd get what I'd meant. When Igneel told me that, I understood. His hand tensed. Emma hurt me. She was…cruel to me. I couldn't be the person she was pushing me to be or else I would've died. So I double-downed on being me. And I…got out of control. But at least I'm me. I thought Silver would get that, but… He's—his jaw locked—not me.

"—and I'm super nervous for E, so I prayed to the stars and to the Spirits to make her negotiations go well—"

"Luna."

She froze hearing her name, thinking the worst was to come. "Y-Yes? Is…? Is everything okay?"

"No." Gale smiled, bitter. "It's not." He pulled his arm away. "I think…I made a mistake. And I don't know where to even start with fixing it…or if I even have the right to fix it after all this time."

"Well…" Luna pulled back her hair, eyes searching. "How bad was the mistake?"

"I gave bad advice and…I didn't see the consequences of my actions," Gale told her. "I didn't consider that the other person is different from me and that maybe my words and actions did more damage than good. And when someone told me that could be the case, I dismissed it because of my stubborn pride."

Luna giggled softly. "Well, you really can be stubborn." Her gaze flicked down as Gale let out a long exhale. "Well… It won't be easy," she told him gently. "I'm sure you didn't mean to hurt this person, but you did. I can't really say if they'll forgive you or not. But I guess… Do you want to try to fix your mistake because you want to feel better or do you want to try to fix it because you want them to feel better?"

What a question. Gale chuckled. "You're getting wise, Blondie-girl." He shoved back his bangs. "I guess it's more for them, but for me too." Rubies cut to the side. "I feel like I'm losing family fast. And I don't want to lose anymore because of my mistakes. But at the same time, I want them to feel comfortable around me. I want them to like themselves around me. And I want to like myself around them too."

Luna poutily muttered, "And you're not talking about another girl, right?"

Gale blinked.

Red-faced, Luna quickly backpedaled, "W-W-Wait! Um, th-that wasn't what I meant—!"

Gale burst into gut-crunching laughter over Luna's splutter. Just when he thought he could not laugh anymore, a second wind caught him.

Luna covered her burning face with her hands. "Don't laugh at me!"

He did his best to wrangle his laughter into a broad grin. "I'm sorry, principessa, but you're just too fucking adorable for my mental health," he chuckled. "After the long-ass days here, it's nice to just laugh with you." He yearned to be in bed with her and have her cradled against his chest with his nose buried in her hair. "You really know how to kick all my exhaustion and bad thoughts away just by being you."

Luna peeked at him, worried. "Is everything going okay, though?"

"Everything's fine." Reds softened. "Especially waking up to you."

Luna looked like she could burst into flames all over again. "Th-That's…!" She drew up her (Gale's) shirt to cover her mouth and could not look him in the eye. "Sometimes, you really make me speechless. It's not fair you can make me like this and you're always fine." She sunk further and mumbled, "I want to make you speechless."

LUB-DUB!

Red covered Gale's ears and spread across his face as he covered his mouth. Why is she so cute? He ended up mumbling back, "You make me speechless too…"

Both him and Luna had wide eyes with his words. Glowing red covered their faces as they looked away from each other. This is so embarrassing!

"S-So!" Luna cleared her through. "U-Um…"

"Yeah." Gale rubbed his neck. "So, uh…" He cleared his throat as well. "About my problem—"

"Yes, your problem!" Luna latched on a little too quickly. "Right. What we were talking about, exactly! Go on, I'm listening."

"Well…" Rather than embarrassment due to his love interest, a mix of embarrassment and shame made his cheeks darken. "You think…you could help me fix it? I think I need your expertise on this person. Looks like I don't know them as well as I thought. And I think I owe someone else an apology too"—he looked at her, regretful—"for not listening to them in the first place."

Luna's expression softened. "Silly Dragon. You don't need to apologize to me. But as for that other person… All you really have to do is be honest and it'll be fine."

"Yeah, well, you know him better than me," Gale reasoned in an abashed grumble. "He cries over everything."

"And he'll probably cry when you apologize too," Luna noted. She laughed when Gale groaned. "Just make it come from the heart. That's all he really needs to know. That you mean it…and that you really do support him in a way he can understand and appreciate. Can you do that?"

Rubies glinted.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

"Yeah."

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

An embarrassed Silver could hardly look himself in the mirror after all of that. Ena had for certain abandoned him in the bathroom, and he went to clean up the products he used for her morning routine, but his accidental glance up made him see a poor hopeless boy in love with his beautiful and sometimes unreachable mistress.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

"I can do that."

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

---

The kitchen of the Burj Al'umi Hotel would make others cry. The Shazzenan Group had made sure their chefs and kitchen had gotten all the proper equipment necessary to satisfy guests from all walks of life. Everyone authorized to be in the kitchen had the pleasure of seeing fresh ingredients from all over the world and getting to cook with them, sometimes for the very first time in their lives. But considering the staff came from all over, Minstrish was a common denominator for everyone to shout orders in (but you could tell when the head chef became pissed the moment he broke into angry Ustani).

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

The Kitchen, Burj Al'umi Hotel

Shamballa City

Shamballa, Alakitasia

8:58 AM SST

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

A young server helped put the prepared breakfast trays onto silver platters. Her humble black slacks, white button-down, and black vest distinguished her from the kitchen staff in their all-black attire (though the chefs were more liberal with the colors of their jackets and hats). She hummed a tune to herself as she situated the drinks and food before covering the tray with the silver dome.

One staffer called to her, "Ayah! You'll be late if you keep going like that!"

"Yes, sir!" Ayah made sure her food cart had all it needed and some extras before heading out of the kitchen flaps and to the special service elevator.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Hi! I'm minor character Ayah from Hekayon, so that makes me Hekayese!

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

She boarded the elevator and pressed her floor, humming along to the Young Nation R&B/pop song Home.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

I started working for the Burj Al'umi Hotel during my breaks from university to help with some extra costs and to contribute to my Young Nation travel fund.

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

BEEP!

The elevator doors parted and she made sure her cart smoothly transitioned onto the floor. A quick glance down made her remember the room number, but she perked up to nod and give greetings to guests coming down the hallway.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

The pay and the benefits are pretty great here. And since I speak Sinnish, Minstrish, Perench, Shamballan, and Ustani, I get to interact more with our foreign guests and it helps me keep in touch with my languages. I normally find foreign guests to be pretty nice and it's great to hear them ask questions about Alakitasian culture.

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Ayah found the room number and the dual doors. She reached past her cart to press the little doorbell before stepping back and mumble-singing to Jimmy's chorus line to Home. There was no point in checking her watch as a minute ticked by. It was her job to make sure she waited for at least three minutes, and she had at least that much left as she remembered thee J-pop song.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

But today…

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

When one of the dual doors opened, Ayah smiled automatically. "Good morning! I've brought breakfast for the suite. Would you like me to prepare it for you…?"

Her mouth dried. Oh my…

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

…I think I've found…

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

"Hmph." Thirteen stood at the door with his hair wet from his shower and a few drops curving down his jaw. Even with the hot shower to wake him up after an intense workout, he still looked a little sleep-deprived and his t-shirt rose a little to give a glimpse of his V-line. "That was fast." He flashed a partial smile at Ayah. "Thanks. If you're offering to set it up, I'd appreciate it."

From Ayah's point of few, she saw hearts and sparkles surround Thirteen (yes, yes, if only that damned shirt would go a little higher!) as she openly gaped.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

…my perfect soulmate!

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Thirteen felt more disheveled than anything and blinked when the server gawked at him. "Uh…" He waved, bewildered. "Good morning. Everything okay?" He subtly sniffed himself when she remained quiet. Do I stink? I took a shower after my workout, although… This morning's events made him leery. Dodging the kid felt like a marathon.

Sneaking out early in the morn for his workout somehow got tanked. Vinyl wanted to join him and had her workout gear ready when he made his abortive escape. He tried to ignore her blatant ogling and felt more tired than exhausted doing his normal workout.

Playing Giltenan roulette sounded good right about now as a dark and dreary aura surrounded Thirteen (and he remained oblivious to Ayah's starstruck one). Why can't I have a normal life?

"Thirteen, is that our breakfast?"

Thirteen kept towel-drying his hair with an exasperated sigh. "Yeah. See for yourself." He stepped aside for Vinyl and retreated into the room to mutter, "I wish I could order a drink."

Vinyl, curious, came to the doorway in her silk Fairy Tail pajamas and beamed. "Oh, thank you so much…!" Her beam faded for puzzlement seeing the server gawk. What is she looking at…? She turned around and got an eyeful of Thirteen's broad back. Shame her for being a degenerate and repressed woman, but she could not help but drool a little. What a total hottie.

It hit her. Hold on a second. It makes sense now.

Ayah blinked when Vinyl gave her a saccharine smile. "A-Ah, I'm so sorry—!"

"I'll be taking our food in, so there's no need for you to come inside," Vinyl said sweetly as she conducted her finger in a quick allegro for the tray to lift itself.

Ayah stammered. "B-B-But he said—"

Vinyl's smile sharpened and loomed over a sweating Ayah. "Thank you so much for your understanding."

Aya could not get in a word when Vinyl retreated and closed the door.

BEEP… BEEP… BEEP… BONG!

A morose Ayah sulkily left with her cart. Foreigners can be so scary…

°•°•°•°

Vinyl puffed a cheek as she conducted the dome to open up and arrange the food and drinks onto the little dining room table their suite permitted. Staring at Thirteen, hmph! It's not like she has a chance. But still…

The sun hit just right as Thirteen looked outside one of the wall-to-ceiling windows. It illuminated the gold undertones of his skin and refracted the beads of water slipping down his jaw as he lazily toweled himself off. Not to mention his loose t-shirt showed the years of hard work and experience he put into his body to keep it muscled and maintained.

And Vinyl was happily drooling and ogling all over again as she wriggled and hugged herself. How the heck can you not stare at a man that fine? I mean, look at him! Such a masterpiece I want to get lost in! I want to marry him now! Forget marriage, actually, and we could skip to the generous honeymoon for days on end!

TICK!

An irked Thirteen had a tick mark against his temple. I can feel her perving on me again. How does she even have the energy for those kinds of thoughts?

He breathed out his frustration and murky oranges reflected the light of the growing sun. My vulture Lammergeier… For every prized bird Vicious had, he gave us our own bird to raise and act as our eyes and ears and messengers. I raised Lammergeier since he hatched. I thought he was dead. But Vicious kept him alive all this time. Or maybe he didn't—oranges darkened—and Cassowary took him before Vicious could.

He rested his towel around his neck. The question is why? Cassowary and I barely spoke. We never got put on missions together since it would've been overkill. We didn't hate each other, but we didn't interact with each other either. He pulled out the message. So why would they send me this?

The message read in code:

Birds of prey hunt better together

Thirteen stared at the cassowary feather. Cassowary never indicated Raven was a problem for them. I don't think I had ever seen Raven and Cassowary interact. To be frank, the decision to bring in Raven wasn't one we all agreed upon, but Vicious said they were necessary to the nest. It doesn't make sense Cassowary wants to work together unless…

Swan's swords from the auction came back. "He's obsessed with his latest gadget. Some pocket watch, I think."

Thirteen pocketed the message. A 'pocket watch'. He's a potential Warlock. Is this why Cassowary is against him? Or did something else happen? There are too many unknowns about this, and I still haven't figured out the Bellum case. His hand clenched his towel. I don't like being this confused and ignorant. But it looks like I don't have a choice.

"Thirteen? Breakfast."

He pulled away from the window to come to the small dining room. It surprised him a little to see coffee made for him. "This—"

"I made sure to order you a Black Eye," Vinyl told him. "I figured you'd need something strong and they don't sell alcohol this early in the morning within the hotel."

Thirteen sat down and smothered his coffee cup with a hand. "It's fine. Thank you."

"Of course."

A quiet sat over the pair as they dove into their breakfast. Vinyl had opted for an omelet while Thirteen went for a heavy steak and eggs. They minded their own as forks and knives scraped the ceramic plates, each in their own world.

Vinyl could scarcely hear Salentino's soprano aria. I'm still trying to understand why Vespers would control Salentino. From what I was told, Salentino is a CEO for some bank in Stella. But what was that matter? He's just a Prose. Or, well, Spiritless in Fioren. Aquamarines darkened. Now that I think about it, all of Vespers' past lovers… Sure, they were high-up, but they always seemed to know someone. His former teacher checked all the boxes, but… Wasn't he the prodigy of some retired musician? He was the only contact with him too.

Thoughts strung along. That… That seems like it happened with all of Vespers' exes. They all had connections. I remember my cousin told me he had a pregnancy scare with his one ex-girlfriend. That's pretty shamed in Minstrish high society, I heard Vespers had planned to marry her. Wasn't her family the head of some conglomerate? She clutched her fork. If what I'm thinking is correct, then Vespers is using Salentino. But for what? To get closer to who? And why?

"Viñella."

She lifted her gaze to Thirteen. "Yeah?"

Thirteen clacked his silverware down and buried his head in his hands, elbows propped on the table. "You don't deserve to get roped into this shit, kid. You should find a way back home. It's not safe for you here." If I'm up against Raven and Cassowary, I'll be lucky to be alive at this point. And Raven is a dirty bastard.

"Mister!" A youthful smile.

Murky oranges gleamed. I couldn't protect her then. But… I can protect someone now.

He sighed. "I'll find a flight for you to get home—"

"No."

Thirteen blinked. 'No'? He looked up—

Determined blues clashed with startled oranges.

"I understand this isn't a normal Fairy Tail job," Vinyl told him, "but I'm not leaving you behind. Fairy Tail doesn't do that to our guildmates."

Thirteen growled, "Hey. Forget Fairy Tail for a second. I'm telling you you need to leave—"

"So you can die?"

Thirteen was taken aback at the harsh glow in Vinyl's eyes.

"You want me out of the way so you can put your life on the line and possibly die here, surrounded and alone," Vinyl challenged, "is that it? You think I'm so fragile that I can't handle myself or be your support at the very least? That I'm just a kid?"

Thirteen opened his mouth only to close it and balled his hands. "You…" He shook his head. "You don't know what you're getting into—"

"And you don't know what you're getting into," Vinyl threw back.

Thirteen bristled. "These are enemies from my past before Fairy Tail, not yours," he snapped back. "I know exactly what I'm getting into, and I know you need to leave—!"

Vinyl's chair scraped as she stood up. "I'm staying!"

"No!" Thirteen got up too. "You're getting out of here where you can be safe! Why the fuck are you so stubborn about sticking to me? I'm a walking target and you don't need to be caught in my fucking mess, kid! Go home!" He turned his back on her. "Get out of here before someone kills you or worse—!"

Vinyl's knuckles turned white. "How am I supposed to leave when I know you'll get hurt!"

Murky oranges widened. What…?

Tears streaked down peachy cheeks. "I can't leave Mister if you're hurt!"

The memory stunned Thirteen into silence. Why did I…?

Vinyl was on a roll and she would keep going. "You're cruel and delusional if you think I'm going to leave here knowing you'll get hurt. Master has always told us it doesn't matter who we were before Fairy Tail. It matters who we are now. And if things in our past keep us from moving ahead, then we'll make sure to breakthrough together so we can all move forward—together."

Thirteen tried to scrub the old memory out, but his head swirled. "Kid…"

"I'm not a kid," Vinyl told him. "I'm Fairy Tail, the same as you. And we never, ever leave one of our friends behind, even in the face of danger. That's not what being in this guild is about. When you joined Fairy Tail, same as me, you knew no one would ever let you be alone. We're not going to let someone we care about die, not unless we're right there with them. Your life isn't your own. Your life doesn't just belong to you."

She jerked up the hem of her shirt to show her Fairy Tail symbol, snow-white with orange outlining. "When you join Fairy Tail, your life is valued by everyone in this guild. You can't forfeit your life because it isn't just yours to give up. Your life belongs to all of us—present and future! And if your past comes back to try and take you away, we won't let that happen. We don't let your past get in the way of the future Master promised us!"

Her bottom lip trembled, but she held firm. She promised us she would take us into a future where our pasts are gone—to a future we can control and live freely.

• — • — • — • — •

"Right now, you are at the crossroads of your life."

The sunset stroked Lake Sciliora and made the land feel so warm and comforting. But Erza stood against the waves of the lake and the winds combing through her mane of scarlet hair. She and Lucy both felt like queens to Vinyl. But where Vinyl felt that maternal warmth born from Lucy, Erza's regality felt war-made.

"You've come a long way from home; I commend you for that," Erza told her over the music of the water. "It's not easy to leave home. And it's even harder to find a new one. But you've made it this far, and I praise and congratulate you for such bravery. But right now, you have to make a choice. You won't be sent back to that place, I promise you. But we will help you find a quiet place to live your life if that's what you want. We'll support you however we can. And you will never owe us a thing for that. But if you feel compelled, you are always welcome to join Fairy Tail."

Browns shone against the dying sun. "Here at Fairy Tail, we don't believe in burdening ourselves with our ugly pasts. It's not that we will forget it. But we have accepted what has happened so we can focus on what is to come. You can't walk this road looking back. You have to walk looking forward. And here, you will never walk into the future alone. Even if the ugliness of your past comes for you, we won't let it hold you back from your promising future. And someday, I hope to take my fairies to a future where they no longer need to worry about their pasts. I will continue to fight for a future where they can be at peace and live with no regret."

She turned towards Vinyl with a kind smile. "If it's your wish to join Fairy Tail, I'll take you to that future. Where you no longer have to fear and regret. I'll take you to a future where your painful memories aren't a weakness but a strength for you to move on. Where any feelings of sadness can be shared amongst your friends instead of locked away behind armor. And where no matter where you look, you will always see light. My word might not mean much to you, but I promise you with all my power, I'll make sure you see that future with your friends."

She extended her hand. "But I leave that choice to you, Vinyl. You now are in control of your own present. How do you want to guide yourself to your future?"

A neighing breeze whirled around them both.

"I…" Vinyl could not help it as she stumbled forward. "Please…" She reached for Erza's hand. "Take me…to that future."

• — • — • — • — •

Vinyl bit down on her bottom lip as her eyes vengefully glistened. "I'm not going to leave you here. That's not what I want. That's not what Master would want either." Her words trembled, but they would not break. "I'm here with you. You agreed on that last night. Nothing changes today. So don't even think about telling me that crap now."

It startled Thirteen when a hand touched his back, between his shoulder blades. "Viñella—"

"You can't ever think I'll leave you alone when you have this mark on your back."

Thirteen realized Vinyl's palm pressed against his Fairy Tail stamp. My mark…

"So get up and live!" A sword tipped to his heart and a scarlet witch—a fairy queen—looking at him with such iron-armored resolved. "Or I will die trying to make sure you live to see our bright future!"

Murky oranges flitted downwards. When I left Deathhawk, all I wanted to do was die. Swan was right. I didn't have a weakness. Not Swan, not Red Eye, no Vicious, not even Lammergeier. I understood death was part of my job. And emotions couldn't be afforded. But then… I met you…

A big grin. "Mister!"

His heart cracked. And you became my weakness, the only thing capable…of making me want to die when you died. You, the annoying little fairy who wouldn't give me any peace in my own garden. I thought every moment being near you was a waste of time. And now…I realize it wasn't enough. And I can't get back that time. But—bloodlust aggravated him into a lethal glare—I can at least avenge your death—

His murderous thoughts snapped away when he felt Vinyl wrap her arms around him and trap him in a hug. "What are you doing?"

"Hugging you."

Thirteen sighed, a hand dragging down his face. "Why are you doing it?"

Quiet.

"Because your music…is full of sadness."

Thirteen could not reply to that.

Vinyl rested her cheek to his back. "It's always quiet and sad like it's being played at a wake—like you're always mourning. Maybe you're mourning someone else or you're mourning what could've been, but your music is always in such a state of sorrow. I'm not sure what your past was like. I won't push you to talk about it. But…I don't want you to be this sad alone. I can't let you. And I won't let you go fight by yourself while you're this sad. Because you'll try to find something to stop the sadness." She held him tighter. "And I won't let you."

"Please don't hurt yourself, Mister. I won't let you."

That grief swelled again hearing that childish scold. He breathed through the pain. I promised myself I would live to see that she was avenged—that I'd right every wrong I did in the past. So when I saw her again…I could be the person she always thought me to be. I could have the right…to be near you again. He briefly closed his eyes. And you…wouldn't want me to be reckless with my life. You'd probably annoy me and cry again if you were here. And I…don't want to see you sad over me, not again. I just want to see you smile.

Thirteen sighed. "I'm not on a suicide hunt, kid, so you don't have to worry about that," he murmured. "Someone wouldn't like it if I went ahead and got myself killed. And she would be pretty mad at me if I got myself hurt."

'She'? Vinyl echoed.

"I'm sorry for… I'm just sorry," Thirteen apologized. "I just keep remembering things. As much as I want it to happen"—he lifted his hand and saw the tremors—"looks like you can't teach an old dog new tricks." His fingers curled into a fist. "About last night—"

"It's fine. I understand."

Thirteen puffed a mirthless chuckle. "I'm sure you don't, but thanks anyway."

Vinyl frowned and kept her own sadness to herself. Maybe I don't understand you, but… That jazz piano flirted in her mind as the harmonica wailed the blues. I can hear your despair. But one day…I hope your music can play your joy.

"Kid?"

Vinyl nuzzled into his back. "Hmm?"

Thirteen's eyebrow twitched. "Viñella."

"Mmm-hmm?"

Thirteen was stiff as a board with irked tick marks piling onto him the more Vinyl let her hands lazily peruse his abdomen. "You can let go of me. I'm not about to run into danger." He sweated a little when her hands dipped low and made his lower stomach tingle. How the Hell can I even focus when she's doing this!

"Oh, don't be so stingy," Vinyl cooed coquettishly. "We just had a rather emotional moment, right? Isn't it natural we comfort each other with close intimacy? Maybe even"—her fingers tangled in the drawstrings of his sweats—"skin-to-skin intimacy—?"

"NO WAY IN HELL!"

°•°•°•°

That was how Vinyl made a moue sitting on the couch with her hands in a place where Thirteen could see them at all times, while Thirteen paced as he handled the formal invitation for the auction in his hands.

"So the first auction is at the Nasnas Museum," Thirteen explained to her. "It's a pretty wide fortress and old. When it was excavated by the Archaeology Society, they theorized that there were hidden passageways the soldiers used to confuse their enemies and purposefully lead them to them being locked away in there." He stopped and looked at the invitation before looking at the box holding two masks. "So they must be using the color method for the Black Auctions like before."

"Yeah, sure. Right."

TICK!

Thirteen barked at Vinyl, "Would you stop pouting like a child and actually listen to me!"

Vinyl gave up her attitude to focus. "I'm listening, I promise. You said something about the 'color method'?"

"Right." Thirteen held up the two-color masks, one white and feminine and one black and masculine. "The colors methods is how they separate those who will be participating in the Black Auction versus those participating in the real auction. They give people indicators about their position using different colors. I'm sure they went with black, gray, and white for this event."

Vinyl frowned. "What do you mean? What's 'gray'?"

"Gray masks are for potentials or those the people in the Black Auction recommended to come to the Black Auction," Thirteen explained. "My mask means I'm already in the Black Auction. Your mask means you're to be in the real auction. A gray mask means that someone from the Black Auction will approach you about entering. They've vetted you and found you good enough to meet with the true Auctioneer. And that's not a compliment."

"'The Auctioneer'?"

Thirteen nodded. "The Auctioneer is someone no one knows the identity of, but he's in charge of the intergalactic auction houses. He created them, actually. You don't want to meet him or meet his Mistress. Mistress is his top assistant. She handles intelligent organic items to auction off. No one knows where she came from either, but she's deathly loyal to the Auctioneer. Rumors flew off the rails about her. Some say she's his lover, some say she's his adopted daughter…"

"Hold on." Vinyl remembered something. "Weren't Cade and T'oree taken during the Festival of Gratitude? I heard from T'oree about it when she and Dazzler had a few of us over for some drinks, but I hadn't understood it at the time."

Thirteen lifted his chin. "Yes. Cade and T'oree were taken to one of the houses. Master had me confirm that when I heard their statements. Cade met with the Mistress, but T'oree was almost sold. And if she had been, we would've never found her. But them being in one of the Auctioneer's Houses and already given a serial number is deadly. If you are ever captured, avoid at all costs letting them put anything on you. When you're numbered, you become property of the Auctioneer."

That made Vinyl swallow. "What will happen to T'oree and Cade?"

"It's being handled." And that was all Thirteen would say on that. "But back to this auction. There will be two other auctions, one on Wednesday and one on Thursday. Formal invitations come the day before, but if they're using the colors method, it could be anything. They might give you a dress to wear, shoes to wear, gloves to wear—even lipstick. And we have to pay attention to every single thing."

Vinyl agreed. "Should I text those people we met yesterday about their colors?"

"No." Thirteen swiftly shook his head. "It's an unspoken rule you don't talk about which color you got. That's breaking one of the Auctioneer's hidden rules. Most people who travel together would get the same-colored mask. We're an exception. I was lured out here. But I'm sure whoever lured me here couldn't get you clearance to the Black Auction or even had the authority to recommend you. The Auctioneer will consider this a test. If I break the rule, I won't be taken to the Black Auction and my right to be there will be revoked. I'm being tested to see if I can keep my mouth shut."

"So how can I help you?" Vinyl asked. "I mean, the auction is today. What are we going to do? You can't go it alone."

"We won't do anything initially," Thirteen plotted. "But I told you. The Al Nasnas fortress was told to have a bunch of hidden tunnels. It'll be hard for you to slip through security—"

"I can handle that." Vinyl jerked a thumb at herself. "You're looking at the heir of the de la Muse family. I told you. My great aunt's music was so powerful, she stopped a border war. I'm not on her level, but my music can still work the same. So don't worry about me."

A glint of approval and appreciation went through Thirteen's regard. "All right. I'll leave that to you." He sat down with her to get out his Compact. "We'll need to make sure we have a meeting point in case something goes sideways. Whenever you can, avoid Magic and use your combat skills. Getting past security is fine, but don't use it excessively. Shamballa never approved of sorcery considering their religion and we don't have a MagiVISA here. We don't know what hidden scanners will be there and we don't have the magi-tech to disable anything."

"Understood." Vinyl took a beat. "Thirteen?"

He projected a map of the Nasnas Museum. "Yeah?"

Four beats.

"What happens if you're caught?"

Thirteen kept looking at the layout. "It's nothing to worry about."

Vinyl pressed her hands together. "But it is," she insisted. "You could get caught—!"

"Viñella, it's okay."

Vinyl stopped at Thirteen's rare grin.

"So don't worry. Even if I get caught, I won't get numbered," he assured her. "I'm certain of it."

"But how?" Vinyl needed to know.

Thirteen's eyes sparked. "Because"—he looked back at the layout and zoomed onto the magical creatures exhibit—"someone has gone to great lengths to show me I'm much better to them as their caged bird."

---

Since the mansion was for royals and esteemed guests, the cleaning staff had their rules. For example, when a royal was staying within the residency, it was commonplace to make sure the royals were awake before running the cleaning equipment and also making sure to avoid the apartments until the royals were out for the days or would not be in their apartments for a significant amount of time. If the Emira was among them, all male staff were not permitted in her vicinity unless they were cleared security and, even then, they were not permitted to be in a room alone with her without another woman present.

And the staff liked those rules. Their royals always knew their names and the ladies always hoped to be chosen as the Emira's attendants and earn the Emir's praise for caring gently for the sun in his sky. If a male servant was lucky to be part of the prince's attendants, he might earn a hefty reward and have the honor of seeing some of the sealed-off parts of the estate. And princess Haya always treated her attendants to drinks she poured for them, memorizing their names, and gaining insight into their lives.

What an utter disgrace that the second princess could not be like her family.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Methuselah Mansion

Shamballa City

Shamballa, Alakitasia

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

She knew it was a losing battle after Fajr prayer.

Tradition had many stay and make Dhikr and Du'a after Fajr prayer. When she was a child, Haya might have stayed to do so, but she was also excused to go back to bed. Back then, when her mother was alive, she would escort her into her room and tuck her in. Even after her mother died, her father would carry her back to bed.

Now, she walked back alone with shame on her shoulders when she left the prayer room having disdain thrown at her back.

Her room was her sanctuary as she looked out at the sunrise. She could call down to one of her attendants to fetch some tea. Not everyone in the estate was of her faith—she was certain the immigrants brought to work in the residencies experienced worse treatment than her—but she knew the tea would be cold and bitter.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

10:07 AM SST

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

It was better for her to ball up against her window in the mornings and calm her stomach until it was time to eat again. Her body felt lifeless as she pressed against the cool glass, but she remembered how painful Zayed's heavy hand was.

"All you need to know is that Inayah is someone special. And she will have my child." The darkness in Zayed's eyes and that insufferable pressure chaining her heart and lungs. "I do hope you'll be happy for your niece or nephew in the future. And that you won't be as reckless to take her away from me. Because then I'll have to do something reckless. And you'll wish you died in that fire with the bitch who gave birth to us."

Fatimah barely had the strength to feel much outside of numbness. How could he do this to her? How could I let this happen? She's my age. She doesn't deserve this. A wad of nausea clogged her throat. And if she's pregnant… She curled into herself, her body wrung out from crying all night, and cupped the queen chess piece. No. She can't be. She can't. Not to that monster.

"You really have no idea what our little stepmother is, do you? The real reason why Father spent a month spoiling her in jewels and riches until she agreed to be his dutiful little wife?"

Fatimah clenched the queen chess piece. If Zayed knows, then so does Haya. They're in a race to get Father's approval for being crowned, so it's not that they would help each other. But I knew they both have spies on the inside of our estates. If Zayed has a sick fantasy of impregnating Inayah and based upon what he did to me, he won't ever give up the truth. Determination nestled. But if I could just convince Haya—

KNOCK-KNOCK!

"'Ana qadim ya sahib alsumu."

Fatimah stuffed the chess piece into her skirt as her lady's maid came in with the other maids. As the lady's maid ordered the others to get to work, Fatimah tried to bury her flicker of agitation and exchanged it for dejection. They barely acknowledge that I'm here. I'm still their sheikha, but I'm nothing more than 'ungrateful'.

She restrained herself from speaking out. I just need to endure this. This is nothing. Even if I want to act out, it's not worth it if it means they report it to my father. And if Father thinks I'm a threat, then I'll be exiled to the outer residences. And Inayah will be alone.

Zayed's satisfied purr made her shudder. "She's not family until she bears the next child in our family line—which should be soon We've been trying hard for a boy."

Fatimah steeled her stomach. I just need to endure this. She hardened her heart. For Inayah.

The morning routine felt strenuous. She kept her head down and away from the blatant disdain the lady's maid unleashed upon her. A word against her meant it trickled back to her father, even if she simply tried to tell them the water for her bath felt a little too cold or she did not like the scent of her soap or maybe she wanted a different outfit. At least the other maids were not malicious towards her. If she had Haya's personality and standing, she could snap at the maids for hours on end and afford to be annoyed if they flinched and trembled.

But deep down, she felt they were kindred spirits.

All of them had no power here and it was best to follow the powers that be.

She knew she lost even more points with the lady's maid when she declined to wear her hijab. She opted for a dupatta with her embroidered suit, though she knew had she gone with the lehenga, judgment would have rained upon. Her suit was humble and simplistic, which would make her seem like she did not cherish what was given to her. But the lehenga picked for her was too fancy enough that it would mimic Haya's sense of style and make her out to be egregiously mocking her sister.

She could not win.

The maids escorted her down to the dining room. As she sat down and a server gifted her meal and a confirmation contract that her meal had been prepped and taste-tested, she could not help but notice she was alone. "Where's Zayed?"

The lady's maid informed, "His Highness left as he has a morning event to attend to." She bowed. "Good day." And she left the dining room.

Fatimah kept her comment to herself. I don't even get addressed by my title. But why would I? She looked at her breakfast of falafel, fool, hummus, and pita bread with some tea. A little smile awarded her seeing the tea fresh and warm and her plate having care put in. But at least…the kitchen staff have no opinions about me. It's like this at every estate. Whenever I dine in the dining room, the kitchen staff give me tasteful food.

She pressed a hand against her stomach. The only reason I rarely ate my food while we were in public…was because of what happened long ago. She shoved aside the memories to divulge into her breakfast and appreciated the comfort food. It tastes…just like how Mama used to make it.

"Fatii!" A precious smile. "Come eat!"

Fatimah's eyes sparkled at the memories. Mama… I wish you were here. If you met Inayah, you would love her. And you'd protect her better than I could.

She picked up some more of her food. I know what I heard. That fire at the palace wasn't an accident. Even without my accusation, it looked suspicious no matter where you looked. Sorcery is forbidden on estate ground to the point of Ether scanners everywhere and all staff is mandated to wear sealstone. Even if the arsonist came into the estate, the Pasbans should have protected her and gotten her out or died trying. But all of them were accounted for. Sure, a few maids and normal guards had died in the fire, but it doesn't make sense the Pasbans never came for her. But it does make sense considering what I heard.

Dark browns glittered. I know I heard it. Father permitted the arsonist to kill her. By why? Why would he kill his own wife? And he went so far as to permit slander of her name from the conservatives. She hadn't been well-liked by them, but they even went so far as to accuse her of being in contact with a Jinn—a Demon. I don't get it. I just can't understand why this happened to her. And why Father married Inayah.

She went for her tea. First thing is first, I need Inayah to leave this country before I try and dig into Mama's murder. And to do that, I'll need to trust that woman.

Dark blues imploring. "Please. Help me rescue Inayah."

She gripped her teacup with two hands and blew on it. Yara Sandström… She's from the kingdom of Bellum. 'Sandström'—that last name sounds familiar, but I can't place it. When the contact said they would find someone who could get Inayah out, I was skeptical. But she seemed sincere. Not only that, but with what she said…

"She's married to the king of Bellum."

Fatimah's eyes darkened. That's haram if Father married a married woman. Men can have multiple wives here, but the women have to have no extra-marital relationships for it to be legal and blessed. He'll be dragged through the mud for such a crime. As incredible as such words sound… I couldn't help but feel Yara told the truth and she wanted me to confirm it with Inayah.

There's so much I don't know about her. I know her father was a politician and her mother was a healer and that she came from Andüsa, but… I know nothing more. But from what Yara says, Inayah was in Bellum and got married to the king so young. Was it for love? How did she meet him? What was she like back then?

A fondness for her stepmother glazed her eyes. Was she talkative? Did she know love? Laughter? She spoke so fondly of braiding children's hair. Did she have her hair braided? What did she do for fun? Did she and the king of Bellum have a whirlwind romance? Does she…love him still? Does she miss him? Does she want to return to him?

She set down her tea to clasp her hands together against her mouth. I wish to do what I can so she can go back to the life she had. I wish to be the one to give her back her life and her freedom. I wish that she knows love again and never fear. I wish she will have a healthy family of her own choosing one day. But most of all…I wish to walk alongside her…so I can make sure she knows happiness in this big world of ours.

She slipped her hands away, bittersweet. Such a foolish dream. I know…I'm to be bound here for as long as I am Father's daughter. She raised her tea for a sip—

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

May your wish be granted.

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

LUB-DUB!

Fatimah was fortunate her tea did not shatter or spill too much when she dropped it as her heart gave a sudden and hard pound. She breathed heavily and clutched her chest, wide-eyed and frightened. What…? What was that? That voice… She touched her temple. It sounded like—

"Ah, Fatimah, you actually woke up and dressed yourself today."

Fatimah stiffened.

"Don't tell me you're still too upset to speak? Zayed told me about your little tantrum last night."

Fatimah lowered her hands. "It's nice to see you too…" She lifted her head.

A proud woman stood in the dining room with her lavender sweater dress and matching floor-length cardigan. Her cream hijab matched her brand belt, trainers, and bags. If every time someone looked at Zayed and saw their father, their mother was strong within her.

"…Haya."

Haya sighed as she came further into the dining room. "Don't make that face, Fatii, it's quite rude to great your older sister in such a manner."

⌜THE EMIRATE OF SHAMBALLA

Name: Haya bint Kamir Al Marwan

Age: 27

Occupation: Princess of Shamballa

Likes: red pandas Dislikes: slow service

Special Note: Haya is part of an international organization for gender equality and is very active in Shamballa's political affairs as she races for being crowned the next ruler! ⌟

Fatimah controlled herself into an even voice. "If you would just—"

"I don't understand why you and Zayed chose this mansion for the night," Haya sighed with a bit of disdain. "It's so far from all the events this week. At least Zayed was smart enough to be dressed and already in the city for his brunch with his 'boys' club'." She brought out her hand sanitizer before critiquing her sister's outfit. "What are you doing, dressed like that? You need to wear your hijab for our morning event, Fatii. You didn't even try to look traditional."

"Because wearing a Louis Malletier is traditional," Fatimah said dryly.

Haya adjusted her cardigan. "Well, it's not like you need to wear an abaya, but you certainly can't go out like that to an event with our grandmother's old friends. They'll tear you apart for not wearing your hijab. Go cover-up." She brought out her compact mirror to check up lipstick and raised an eyebrow when Fatimah did not move. "Well? We don't have much time." She threw a look at Fatimah's breakfast. "And you should probably slim down. Why don't you go see my dietitian?"

Fatimah ate her rebuttal and stated calmly, "I'm not going to change and I'm not covering my hair just because they think they have the right to question my faith. I'm just as devoted as they are with or without it."

"Oh, here we go again with this," Haya muttered.

Hackles raised, Fatimah tightly tried again. "There are days I feel naked without it, but I shouldn't have to wear mine if I don't want to—"

"Here is your Anti-Hijab manifesto again. Don't you get tired of hearing yourself?" Haya took out her lipstick for a quick reapply. "I know you are devoted as anyone else, but you need to build back up your standing with them, Fatii. They're very important in society and they value tradition. And it would help spread a positive image. Your image is already in the ground." She rolled her lips around and felt satisfied. "And you should be grateful I'm allowing you to accompany me to this event in the first place. If it wasn't for my insistence you'd behave and keep your mental stuff under control, you'd be confined to the palace again."

Fatimah tensed. "Yes." Her appetite had officially vanished. "I know."

"Good." Haya snapped her mirror shut and stuffed her lipstick and mirror back into her round purse. She caught Fatimah's downcast look and rounded to rub her sister's arm. "Fatii, I know it's a struggle with your mental problems, but the quicker you realize how the world works, the better. And soon, you won't always be labeled as 'ungrateful'." She feathered down Fatimah's hair. "It's just…hard for people to see who you truly are. I mean…"

Fatimah stiffened when Haya brushed her cheek.

"…you're the one who accused our father of killing our mother."

Fatimah swallowed.

Haya's hand trailed down to perch on Fatima's shoulder. "I get it. You're still upset she died in that fire. But that's in the past now. We have to show the people we are a united front. Your outbursts are haram. You're very lucky I had the heart to convince our imam and Father that you were simply…incompetent. If it wasn't for me, Father would have let you rot in that palace. But like a good older sister, I brought you home." She raked through Fatimah's hair. "And you can't even show how grateful you should be to me."

The phantom pains from Zayed's heavy hand made Fatimah feel tears cloud her vision, but she did not let them fall. "I am…grateful," she forced out.

"I know you are," Haya soothed. "Which means I know you won't embarrass me for our morning event or the auction today. You should know how important the auctions are for Father and Mother, and it's extremely important for Mother's health that nothing goes wrong. It's a very delicate time. Father doesn't want her stressed when we could be getting a new sibling."

Fatimah's throat and stomach soured. "R-Right." She gripped the arms of her chairs. "I…understand."

"Good." Haya let her go to stride for the dining room doors. "Wear your hijab. Don't embarrass me." She paused. "And don't even think about crying to our step-mother this time." She made sure Fatimah could see the consequences. "She needs me more than she could ever want you." She carried on. "I'll be waiting in the car. I have to call my fiancé."

Fatimah waited until she could hear Haya leave to shed the first two tears and fritter them away. She could not even cry and voice her refusal. She did not have the power or the credibility to stand up against every command given to her.

And such a thought made her bury her head in her hands and silently relinquish more tears.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

CLACK!

CLICK!

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Haya was on her Compact that she never noticed Fatimah had come in, stiff and quiet. A glance showed Fatimah had put on a complimenting shayla to her embroidered suit. "Well, that's good enough." She pressed a button on her roof to signal to the driver they were ready. "Honestly, you make everything so difficult for everyone. If you'd just put it on in the first place and not given so much attitude about it, we could have left already. Now we'll make it there just in time, which is already late to them…"

Fatimah had nothing in her to care about Haya's lecturing. She had done her best to clear her face and apply makeup, but as she looked out the window, she knew her eyes would be red-rimmed for a little while. Perhaps her sister felt comfortable with her hijab, but all Fatimah could feel was a further distance from herself. Either way, it did not matter now. She had complied like always. To show she was obedient. To show she was devoted.

To show she was grateful.

She clutched her dupatta. I don't know if you can hear me…or if you're even there anymore. Maybe you won't want to listen again to this ungrateful daughter, but please.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Starry Sky nemurenai yoru nee aitai yo aitai yo

• — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

She closed her eye as one tear shed and swiped it away before Haya could make any sort of comment. I hope you meant what you said and you'll grant my wish. Even if I can't leave here, please. Just let me get Inayah away from this.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Sora ni kakaru hoshi no beeru koboreochisou na kono omoi wo

• — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

It was time.

She had been dressed in an original design for her and that complimented her veil. As her guard and lady's maids escorted her—as she gained admiration from the staff—all she felt was lead in her heart. Her gaze drifted to a young Andüsan made who looked at her in hope and reverence. She knew what she must have looked like to this poor girl. She looked like an aspiration, an idol, a dream.

Yet this life was her nightmare.

The guards showed their respect to her before opening the door. The men inside were cousins, uncles, and nephews, if she historically remembered correctly. It was not that this was a gentlemen's club, but almost everyone inside the chamber was a man as they spoke to one another without their wives and intended and sisters present. However, when they saw her, the future of their country, they gave their respect.

Even her dear husband.

Kamir stepped out to greet her. His sharp eyes always caught her trembling fingers and he kissed the back of her hands chastely before giving them a brief squeeze. It was his right to escort his wife and his offered arm was easily accepted by her. He leaned to whisper, "It is time, my sheikha. Can you use your gift for me?"

She held her breath and shortly nodded.

Kamir smiled. "You are truly a blessing to have in my life." He patted her hand. "Serve me well, my sheikha." He forced her to talk forward. "Our agreement depends on it."

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Tsuranatta hikari no tsubu seiza no monogatari

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Julia finished placing in the last piece—the contacts that made her blue eyes orange. Her outfit had been tailored to the fashion of Alakitasia with her knees and shoulders covered thanks to her stylish jeans, a military green overcoat that pinched together in the middle, and a cream shirt that justified her chunky heeled sneakers.

Her personal Compact was next to her and a few messages came through. Curious, she checked them only to be pleasantly surprised. Dash had sent her some pictures of his trip with Iris and how much fun she had going to the beach. It looked like their next stop for their short sibling vacation would be an amusement park. She loved both pictures before tapping out and checking her thread with Silver.

She reread what she had sent him:

« Hey »

It was pathetic. She knew that. And when she saw the read receipt, she knew Silver probably thought it was a one-off. But still…

KNOCK-KNOCK-KNOCK.

Finished, she went to go put her Compact back in her room safe and then addressed the door. "Ready?

"Are you ready?"

Gale stood before her with his red eyes the polar opposite blue. He had been spared a high-street casual suit, but he showed both of their black masks to her. Even his expression was somber like he knew today would be their first true dip into Shamballa's Hell.

Julia took a deep breath. "Yeah." She whipped out the formal invitation to the auction. "Let's go."

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Starry Night hoshi furu yoru nee aitai yo aitai yo

Yorisotta rokutousei shizuka ni tsunoru kono omoi wo

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

It was not that Swan never worked; it was that they preferred to work with sizable eye candy.

Considering the reforms and the generous money they gave, it was nice to wake up with beauties around you and with a shisha they could use outside. The four men they had brought back were all strong and brawny and eager to live out their fantasy, even if it left them exhausted and their backs raked and marked. But at least Swan had the sensibility to get a room with one of the largest beds.

They gave one of the half-asleep- half-awake lovers a good morning kiss before they slipped out and downed their black-feathered robe. It flowed dramatically behind them as they left the bedroom to head out to their balcony. The city of Shamballa was beautiful and no one could deny that. The stunning visuals of the Burj Shamballa were enough on their own, but the Emir certainly had double-downed in progressing his country to draw in tourists and keep his citizens happy.

PYUU...

Swan took to the shisha and puffed out smoke as they sat down on one of the outdoor patios. The more beautiful something is, the uglier it is underneath. And my dear Shamballa… You are truly beautiful. They took another puff. So. Vulture changed his name to 'Thirteen'—how poetic. At least Red Eye kept 'red' in its new name. So sentimental.

They crossed their legs and rested their cheek against a propped fist. I never thought I'd see him again. But the little screech with him—does he truly not know who she belongs to? Then again, it wasn't as if Vulture would have interacted with him. Such bold eyes—so bold that he would have done anything to incriminate his own blood. How cruel. How beautiful. Another puff.

"Oh-OH! Oh-OH!

Swan looked up to see a black swan trumpeting their return. "Ah. And here comes my friend now."

The black swan circled overhead before tilting and adjusting its wings to flap into its descent. It landed on the balcony and excitedly flapped its wings to see its owner again.

Swan smiled and reached a hand to stretch their swan's head, the magnificent waterfowl wagging its tail feathers and leaning into the strokes. "There you are, my beautiful swan. I take it you delivered my message and have another one for me." Their hands dipped to the scroll tied onto their swan's neck. Taking another puff, they set aside the shisha to open up the note.

Fledging is on the ground.

Loose feathers in the wind.

Birds of prey hunt better together

The Hawk will be watching

Swan plucked the cassowary feather with a small smirk. So Vicious' little fledging is on the ground now, is he? I'm sure Lady Lonza is thrilled about that. Vicious will be watching closely. Lady Lonza might hate the fledging, but even she knows Vicious will use his Voice on her. She isn't special.

They sat back in their chair, letting their foot bounce while their swan buried down and tucked in their head onto their back. With Vicious' attention on the Emira, it makes sense he put out loose feathers. But if Cassowary wants to hunt and mentions birds of prey, it means they want to hunt one of the two: the Crow or the Raven. And considering Crow's value, it will be Raven. And the psychotic Cassowary wants us all to hunt together. Even Vicious will be watching us. I'm sure he wants Raven to die. But I'm also sure he wants an opportunity to speak to Vulture. This means Vulture will be protected if he's caught.

Their smirk broadened. How beautiful a setup.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Starry Light matataku yoru nee aitai yo aitai yo

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

They went back to their shisha for a fresh smoke. Well, Vulture. They puffed out smoke. After all these years, you'll finally get your beautiful revenge.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Yubisashita hokkyokusei kawaru koto no nai kono omoi wo

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Lorraine was nothing like her mother and everything like her father. They were cats. Her mother and his wife would be a dog in this analogy.

Lorraine and her father had grace and dignity, carrying themselves to high standards as most central Perench people did. But Catherine Dior in her southern Perench accent was much more inclined to be a ray of sunshine. Her husband and her daughter tried to keep it together (even if the backs of their ears burned red) from Catherine's exuberant personality while Catherine had a ball speaking with Elías and his parents.

For as strict as you would think Cher's parents were, they spoiled their little girl rotten and indulged in listening to her go on and on about what was going on in her world as they dined at a Perench restaurant.

Chunhua looked at her bare hands that had not a stain from work. The smoothness of her skin mocked her, but she had little choice but to put on her lace gloves if she wanted to go out into the world.

°•°•°•°

She yearned to go out onto the balcony, but if she felt the wind, she knew she would be too tempted to see how far she could go. Freedom to wander the skies was nonexistent in her life now, but deep down, she knew the moment she freed herself from a cage, she would take the opportunity to use her gift.

And her curse.

"La-lala… La-lala-lala…" The melody kept rolling off her tongue without her consent. "La-lala… La-lala-lala…"

She did not look at him when he approached her. Her visible eye kept looking outside, longing and despaired. His hug from behind helped some of the pain from being so close to freedom yet knowing it was something unattainable.

"I'm sorry." He pulled her hair to one side to kiss her neck. "I'm sorry, honey."

"It's nothing for you to apologize for." She kept her tone light. "You're doing what needs to be done. I can't be mad at you for that."

He rested his chin on her shoulder, squeezing her. "No, but you're allowed to be mad your boyfriend isn't paying attention to you and cutting your dates short because he's a workaholic."

She sighed and thumbed his hands. "I can't be mad at that either. Not when you're using your abilities for good use." Her eyes softened, envious seeing the wind coddled what looked to be a black hawk. "You never wanted to use your abilities for much else that didn't interest you. I know they tried everything, but in the end, all you did was manipulate them into doing what you wanted them to do. If you can use your powers to help people, then I'm happy. I really am. You don't have to worry about me. There are always more dates."

Her words were true, but they discounted one thing.

How much time would pass until they had another opportunity like this one?

"I'm gonna marry you." His vow to her. "And you'll get so sick of me that you'll be begging for vacation time from your own husband."

She tittered. "You told me you were going to marry me all those years ago. I just thought you were just joking around." Her eyes wistfully shone. But still… I remember your first proposal.

• — • — • — • — •

"I won."

White walls.

White floors.

No windows.

The only color came from the olden LV, game system, and lacrimagames permitted in her Room.

"That means I get to marry you." He set aside his control. "I promise. I'm going to become someone no one can ever touch. And I'm going to make sure you can sing whatever you want." He took her hand in his. "So let's leave together."

• — • — • — • — •

She closed her eyes against his burning kisses on her skin. I had thought it was over for me—that I'd never see him again. Once you're bought, you're guaranteed to never see anyone you'd met there. And even if you do, you're not supposed to talk to them. But then… You found me again. And you're the only reason I met the four friends I hold dear. You never gave up on your promise. She smiled when she felt how much he desired her. And in turn…you've become someone no one can touch.

She turned around and drew up her face, arms wrapping around him to pull him into a loving kiss. The boy who swore he would marry me… The person who gave me the courage to sing…

When she pulled back, she looked up at his face naked without his headset or the sunglasses that gave him normal eyes. Because without those to cover his eyes, she saw him for the honest truth. She saw where the whites of his eyes should have been looked like a dark blue and his eyes looked like ocular retinal scanners like he was something more than human. But even now, his retinal scanner eyes stared down at her in reverence, like he was always taking her in for the first time.

How could she not love his eyes?

She placed her hands on either side of his jaw, thumbing. "My genius."

He pouted. "Hey…"

"All right." She smiled. "My evil genius."

He looked happy with the epithet. "Much better." He brushed her red-orange hair to look at that heather gray regard he could get lost in. As the sun touched the glass, her reflection showed her angelic wings. And all he wanted to do was marry this woman before him. "My songbird." He rested his forehead against hers. "Kyary."

---

— • — • — • —

Starry Sky nemurenai yoru nee aitai yo aitai yo

Kirameita ittousei osaekirenai kimi e no omoi wo

•

Gyutto dakishimete mou hanasanaide

"aishiteru" dake ga zutto kagayaki tsuzukeru

— • — • — • —

---

Why did the breeze feel so much better being in a foreign land?

Even though medical and research centers took up most of the island, the tropical flow never could be pushed aside. Just as doctors and nurses and residents and interns bobbed in and out of facilities as they spoke about harsh cases, their kids, or plans that they would hopefully get around to, locals and foreigners paroled the streets with their loose street attire and helped themselves to the niche restaurants and food trucks. A bus tour showed off all the campus while a walking tour was more in-depth for potential students who yearned to come here for medical school.

HOKU-HOKU!

The loco moco was great street food to buy and take your time with, affordable, filling, and delicious. The plated lunch of meat, two scoops of rice, mac salad, fried egg, hamburger patty, and drizzled gravy did things to her stomach. And of course, her trust Clifford had already eaten his fill as they toured around, more comfortable with their location.

She dove into her next mouth and let the wind speak to her—

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

'I wish to do what I can so she can go back to the life she had.'

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

She jolted, surprised hearing a voice that might have spoken Minstrish, but for some reason, it did not feel like the unfamiliar thought was thinking in Minstrish.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

'I wish to be the one to give her back her life and her freedom. I wish that she knows love again and never fear.'

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

She lowered her food, the bewilderment softening for something else.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

'I wish she will have a healthy family of her own choosing one day.

But most of all…I wish to walk alongside her…so I can make sure she knows happiness in this big world of ours.'

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

The external thoughts no longer plagued her as though the wisher was finished saying their piece. She pondered the words, her body moving in rhythm with her faithful Clifford. Such strange thoughts. It was not as though thoughts could not be broadcasted and she was the unfortunate and unwilling eavesdropper, but she had gotten better in putting up blocks. No one should have been able to leak their thoughts.

So then…someone had intentionally meant for her to hear such a selfless wish.

A smile curled her lips as her fingers came up to brush back a stray lock behind her ear. The white of the stamp on her hand complimented the moonstone on her bracelet and the scales a great Sea King gifted her to show his respect for her.

Hmm. I see. She looked up and shielded those warm browns of hers from the sunlight as she watched a stray bird soar through the sky. If that's your heart's wish, then… Sparks of white went through her eyes.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

May your wish be granted.

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

---

Voices of Characters in Order of Appearance

— • — • — • —

Ena Fernandes – Xanthe Huynh

Julia Fullbuster – Michelle Ruff

Silver Fullbuster – Yuri Lowenthal

Gale Redfox – Greg Cipes

Yara Sandström -

Fatimah bint Kamir Al Marwan – Summer Bishil

Theodore "Theo" Hefeweizen -

Wu Liang -

Thirteen – Mathew Mercer

Vinyl de la Muse – Alison Viktorin

Vespers Vivaldi – Max Mittelman

Elías Ramos – Rhenzy Feliz

Lorraine Dior – Selah Victor

Cher Woods – Hayden Daviau

Chunhua Bei – Kelsye Asbille

Noko – Derrick Snow

Gray Fullbuster – Newton Pittman

Luna Dragneel – Brynn Apprill

Zabeel Haddad -

Zayed bin Kamir Al Marwan -

Nouhad Haddad -

Sycaña – Christen Auten

Erza Fernandes – Colleen Clinkenbeard

Haya bint Kamir Al Marwan – Rima Fakih

Swan – Kayleigh McKee

Key / Kyary – Raye Boyce

• — • — •

Additional Voices

Opening Narrator – Mary McGlynn

Description Narrator – Mary McGlynn

Closing Narrator – Melissa Fahn

— • — • — • —

⌜OPENING SONG

⟪ SAYONARA DILEMMA ⟫

Vivid undress

Lyrics by

yu-ya⌟

•

⌜ENDING SONG

⟪ Starry ⟫

ClariS

Lyrics by

丸山真由子⌟

---

•

•

•

•

— • — • — • —

Next time, on Fairy Adventure

•

Episode 141

•

THE FIRST AUCTION

— • — • — • —

•

•

•

•

PLACE YOUR BIDS

---

Chibi-Luna is packing up for the end of the day when she notices someone comes by her room. "O-Oh! Are you here for the Fairy Lesson?" She scratchers her cheek at the nod. "Um, well, class is already over. We did a potion lab today and most of the rooms are locked and the stuff was either put back into storage or thrown away."

Disheartened, the focus turns away.

"Ah, well, um…!" Chibi-Luna garners attention as she hems and haws until an idea comes to her. "Wait a second!" She goes back to her boxes and starts rummaging through until she finds purchase. "Have you ever seen this?"

The focus cocks its head seeing a lacrimagame cartridge.

"This is one of the first lacrimagames made of Fairy Tail," Chibi-Luna explains. Sheepishly, she adds, "To be honest, I bored this from my brother Luke. I wanted to bring his Wintengo Sixty-Four for the students, but he's not so trusting with the class just yet. B-B-But I can still tell you all about this," she hurriedly adds.

As she passes the cartridge to the student, she starts her description. "You see, lacrimagames might have been popular way back when, but no one had thought of doing a lacrimagame of Fairy Tail or guilds in general. That's when Master was presented with the idea of making the lacrimagame Fairy Tail: The Brave and the Bold, an RPG. And oh!"

She scuttles back to her box and comes back with trading cards and a device. "You can collect trading cards to get new spells, armors, weapons, creatures, and skins for whichever Mage you choose," she enthusiastically shares. She holds the rectangular device that looks like both a Compact and a card reader. "This is called a Magi-Modifier. Once you can in the card, it uploads to the game so you can modify your Mage! And you can go on all sorts of cool quests and puzzles and battles. It even acts as a history lesson of Fairy Tail too!"

She puts away the cards and modifier and the students give her back the cartridge. She sighs. "It actually got really popular and you can play it on your PAL or DAL and other consoles. This cartridge is one of one-hundred made for Wintengo Sixty-Four and most people have it as a collector's item. Genius always said people were missing out on the cool features it has. Luke said he'd play it one day, so I wonder what he'll find."

She shrugs. "Guess that's for another time." She goes to put away the game when she remembers, "Oh! Almost forgot! Before I erase, please read the message on the board from the author before you head out!"

The focus comes in to look at the board. The writing reads:

「Any guesses on the serial arsonist yet?

Erza has taken in Fairy Tail members with powers and identities that need to be kept hidden. Have you figured out the Magic Power of these members? I greatly enjoy writing about Erza recruiting these members. I envision Erza as a very inspirational leader.

Religious Disclaimer: I am not part of any religion, but I accept all religions. Research cannot take the place of being a believer. If I misuse any religious words, I am open to comments and will correct them. As you can see, many religions and mythology are used in this story; however, I have no stake regarding religious headwear or how religions should be expressed. Every religion has a progressive, centralist, conservative, and extremist side, each with its own set of core values. And regardless of what I agree or disagree with, I will show people with various morals and values that do not reflect my philosophies.

Also, Fairy Adventure follows 2011's calendar year, so Ramadan would be from July to August in the FA universe rather than being April to May like for 2022. But Shamballa follows much of Dubai's 2020+ reforms (sans COVID-19 restrictions).

Events from The Disappearance of Igneel Dragneel will affect Fairy Adventure, but it is not necessary to read.

Chapter delays might occur with the decline in my health, but there is still much to publish. Still, thank you for waiting and for your support.

よろしくお願いします。」

Chibi-Luna gets a book tucked in her hands. "Well, that's it for the day! And we'll see you tomorrow for the next Fairy Adventure!"