a/n Hey, guys! Please don't hate me! I know that it has been like . . . a month since my last update. And, believe me, it's actually been on my mind so much. I feel guilty every time a day goes by and I haven't finished my chapter. When I reached the two-week mark since the last update, I made a promise to myself, one which I promised to promise YOU. If EVER I do not update before two weeks have gone by, automatically this upgrades the next chapter into a 10,000-word chapter. Yup. That's write. I will write and write until you get 10,000 words from me. This is my way of apologizing and making up for any lost time between. If at all possible I will try to update once a week, that is what I was doing at first. I'll spare you the details of why it has been almost impossible for me to write. Just know, if I'm not writing, it's only because I genuinely can't be. Thank you, all, for reviewing and following. I will give my usual responses/shout-outs at the end. But, in a general response, trust me, I get the major feels any time I write about Loke (which there is plenty more of in this chapter), so just know that I am right there with you, just maybe a little farther ahead mentally, as far as the plans of his reunion to the C.S.W. go. Oh, and, one other thing I wrote in by way of apology: you get NATSU POV for a good chunk, here.

One more thing! I have recently added some links to my profile, for my Twitter and Tumblr acounts. I'm going to add them, here, particularly because I included a few sketches on tumblr that relate to this story and the layout of the school.

Tumblr: blog/madabellyluhu

Twitter: /Madison57782062

Anyways! Without further ado! Here is your 10,600 something word chapter! (21 pages!)

LUCY POV

Every step I make towards the fourth floor is exhausting. I feel absolutely drained. I force my legs to move, regardless, and, after what seems like an eternity, I make it back to my desk. I don't know what time it is, and I really don't care as I simply lay my head down and close my eyes, letting sleep overcome me.

Natsu POV

Laxus is droning on and on about something I've long since stopped paying attention to. All I can think about is the new mage, Lucy. I can't explain it, but ever since the moment we had outside, where I trapped her against the wall, something inside of me has been burning to stay near her. When we had stood there, and my arms had caged her in, it was like a flame, one which wasn't mine, had ignited in the space between us. I shake it off now, as I had then. There is something in her eyes that seems to call out to me. There is both a challenge in them and a curiosity.

I think Fairy Tail is going to save me, too, she had said. But what does that even mean? Obviously, she comes from a messed-up past, too. I don't know why but that infuriates me. I've never felt this type of overprotection before. I almost smile when I think back on our 'sausage war'. I can't think of anybody else who would behave that way with me, except for maybe Happy. And man, there's another thing. Happy. Lucy already can't resist him. The fact that she arranged for him to have fish with Mira, still warms my heart. She didn't even know us, and yet she was already looking out for him. She was using the advantage of being the new girl, not for selfish things but to help out my best friend.

Gray had been mad at me for 'messing up' our battle against Bixlow, and while he was the bigger problem, it was certainly not helping us that I couldn't help but get distracted by Lucy. There was a moment, during her battle, when I had felt a surge in her magic. It was lost on everyone else, but it was like, whatever she was doing, was calling out specifically to me. My flames had burned brighter in response, and I almost felt a growl of approval rip through my throat. It was seriously weird.

"Oi, Natsu!" a voice calls from somewhere beside me, "Are you listening?"

"Huh?" I look up, dumbfounded.

"I can't believe this!" I look up to see Gajeel and Laxus staring at me. "I think Natsu was actually thinking!" Laxus chuckles at Gajeel's words and states,

"Not possible! I've been his teacher long enough to know he's a hopeless case!"

Forgetting my genuine thoughts from earlier, I stand with fists flaming. "Oi! I think! In fact, I'm thinking you need a beating for your stupid words!"

Laxus suddenly throws a bolt of lightning towards me. "Not gonna happen! Sit down and shut up. Class is almost over."

I force myself to sit back down, throwing daggers at the pair from my seat. Happy, Carla and Lily are all sitting in one corner. Even though they all bristle at any title beside Exceed, they certainly look like felines as they hum quietly, enjoying a literal cat nap. Juvia is moping in another corner, probably upset Gray isn't in here with us. Surprisingly, Loke is just as lame as she is for once. Wendy and Romeo are pretending to pay attention, but I can tell they are writing notes to each-other on her lacrima tablet, giving each other shy looks. I roll my eyes and settle back, hoping to fake awareness for the rest of class. The sooner I'm done here, the sooner I can find and tease Lucy, more. Of course, Laxus keeps calling me out on every question, pushing me for stupid answers I don't care about. I mean, what good are classes anyway? All I really need to know is that my family is important. After that, fighting just comes naturally.

That's what Igneel taught me anyway. I remember it like it was yesterday.

"Come on, Natsu! Focus!"

"But Dad!" I pouted, looking past his large, red scaled snout, to his large eyes. "I'm never gonna learn this! It's too hard!"

"Natsu. It's because you are thinking about it too hard. Lose your thoughts and focus on your feelings."

"But feelings are for girls!"

"Natsu, you don't even know any girls. So shut up and do as I say."

"Fine! But I don't understand. What am I supposed to feel?"

Igneel looked at me, smoke coming from his nostrils in frustration.

"Natsu. Who am I?"

"That's a stupid question. You're my dad!"

"But you don't look like me. So, how can you be my kid?" My face turned down in sorrow.

"Are you saying I'm not your boy?" Tears were trying to pool in my eyes.

"No! I'm asking what connects us, if not the obvious."

"Well, there's fire?" My voice sounded uncertain.

"Indeed, boy. My fire is one connection between us. But there is also feeling. You feel in your heart that I am your father, as I feel in mine that you are my son. The flames respond to that feeling."

I blinked, starting to get it. "So, if the flames and feelings make us family, then the stronger the feelings, the more powerful everything is?"

"Yes, boy. And you must protect each part of them. Trust your flames; harness your feelings; protect your family. Only when you do those things will you find your strength as a fire dragon slayer. Now, again!"

I looked up at him, then turned back towards the mountain range. I let myself feel the fire within me. As I did so, I thought of Igneel, of my father, and as the warmth in my heart grew, so too, did my flames. I took in a deep breath, crying out, "Fire Dragon's: Roar!" As the flames flew from my throat, connecting with and blasting apart all in its path, I saw Igneel smile.

"That's my boy!" He cried out, and with his pride, my flames only seemed to grow brighter.

"Alright, Idiots! I'll see you tomorrow! Don't forget to do your assignment!" Laxus' voice shakes me from my memory. I have no idea what assignment he means, but I don't care. I bolt from my seat and start looking around, well sniffing around.

I pick up Lucy's scent and grin, heading towards my goal. It doesn't lead me next door as I thought it might but upstairs. I race, as nonchalantly as I can, upstairs, hoping to catch a few moments with the blonde who has so captivated my attention. I make it to the fourth floor and grin as I see her across the gap, leaning forward in the desk she had earlier claimed as her own. I move quickly to her side, grin only widening as I can hear the steady inhale and exhale that could only mean she is fast asleep.

I look at her, laying there with her cheek smooshed up against her hand. Her blonde hair, now in two long pigtails, like somehow longer than earlier, curls down her back, one falling over her shoulder. Her bangs are falling over one of her eyes and the tiniest hint of drool leaks out of the corner of her mouth, moistening her hand ever so slightly. She shivers a little, and I can tell that, with her body focusing its attention on re-energizing herself, she has grown cold. I ignite my hand, letting it hover closer to her, warming her slightly with my presence. I'm crouching now, right next to her. I peek back towards the stairs, glad that nobody has come up, yet. Honestly, most people run late between now and the next class. I turn back to Lucy as a small puff of air passes through her lips.

She smells so good, I think, suddenly. And she does. I knew when she walked in with Levy this morning that she had showered, because her hair smelled just like Levy's does. Levy always uses the same tangerine shampoo. Which, despite my enhanced senses, I only know because Gajeel smells like tangerines way too often in the morning. Gross. But it isn't the tangerine smell that is nice. It is something deeper. Beneath the citric scent is something creamier, almost like freshly baked pastries, Like Erza's cake, minus the strawberries, topped with cream. But, mixed in with that, is the subtle yet tantalizing scent of peaches. The whole combination reminds me of a dessert Mira made once, a long time ago. I think it was called cobbler. Remembering this causes my mouth to water as I observe the girl in front of me.

I lift my hand and gently brush her bangs back, my fingers tingle at the brief contact. She reacts, almost instantly, to the contact. Her eyebrows scrunch together, and her eyes roll a little behind their lids. I back up, not wanting her to see how close I am to her as soon as she wakes.

"Natsu?" She whispers questioningly, eyelids fluttering open.

"Hey, Luce," I say, quietly. "Nice nap?"

She sits up, noticing her drool with a blush, trying to wipe it without me seeing.

"I can't believe how quickly I fell asleep," she mumbles.

"You must have been pretty tired! What did you and Bickslow do to wipe you out so thoroughly?" I give her a smirk. She blushes.

"Bickslow Sensei had me summon more of my spirits, Cancer and Capricorn."

"Are they as weird as your cow from earlier?"

"Well, one is a giant crab man with dreadlocks and the other a goat butler. So, kinda?"

My eyes grow wide, "Wow. Sounds pretty neat! What about your fourth spirit?"

"Aquarius? I summoned her this morning. She's a mermaid."

"A crab and a fish woman? Don't let Happy hear that!"

"He'd better not even think about it!" She snaps, horrified.

I just laugh at her. "So, what did you do with crab man and the goat?"

"Mostly just got to know them, see if they were okay with working with me. Cancer is pretty cool! He even did my hair! And he doesn't just cut. He makes it grow!"

So, her hair really is longer, interesting. "That's pretty cool."

"What about you? Did you learn anything cool in class?"

"Not really, it was pretty boring, so I didn't really pay attention."

"Why am I not surprised? You know, you should take better advantage of your studies. After all, there are some of us who'd have loved to be in classes as long as you."

"Yeah, I guess so. But my dad taught me a lot before I ever showed up."

"The dragon? Igneel?"

"Well, duh! If I ever really had another dad, I never knew him. Igneel's all the father I've ever needed!"

"Would you tell me more about how you became his son? It seems so weird to me, but maybe if you told me I'd understand a little easier."

"Yeah, sure. But, it's kind of a long story, so with class starting up soon, it might need to wait until later. Maybe at dinner or after?"

"I'd like that." She gives me a shy smile. It fills me with a gentle warmth, which surprises me.

"Do you think you'd be willing to tell me more about you, too?"

"Um, if you'd like to know. But, there's really not that much to know."

"I doubt that, Luce. You seem pretty incredible. Someone like you has to have a story."

"Naaaaatsu!" A cry comes from behind us, interrupting the flush creeping over Lucy's face. We turn to see Happy.

"Hey, Buddy! Enjoy your catnap?" I smirk at my little blue friend as he flies over to Lucy and me.

"I don't know what you're talking about!" Happy glares, "But, it was pretty rude of you to leave me all alone!"

"Like you left us all alone after lunch? You missed some pretty crazy stuff!"

"That was different! You know I can't stay away from Carla's womanly charms!" My eyes flicker towards Lucy briefly. Happy seems to notice but, thankfully, doesn't comment.

"Fair. I caught Lucy taking a nap, here!"

"And you didn't draw on her face!?"

"Hey! That's a good thing, Cat!"

"I don't know, Loopy, you might actually be pretty if Natsu messed with your face." I choke back a laugh. Despite not agreeing with my best friend, this once, his comeback is too good to not appreciate.

"Why you, little-"

"Natsu! Scary Lucy is gonna eat me, I just know it!" Happy shrieks, trying to hide behind me.

"Oi, you asked for it, Happy. You're on your own, this time."

"Not fair, Natsu!"

"Oh, I think it's plenty fair, you dumb cat!" Lucy snaps, standing to try and reach him. She lunges forward, but Happy zips away, leaving her grasping at air. She fumbles for a second, missing her target. He sticks his tongue out at her. I lean back as she almost bumps me. "Get back here!" She shrieks.

He flies over, but when she reaches again, he bolts once more. This time her fumbling causes her to trip. She starts to fall over, but I reach out and catch her, pulling her towards me, attempting to keep her from hurting herself. But, I underestimate her momentum. She bumps into my chest before sprawling over my lap.

Both of us go completely still, not daring to move. I can barely hear Happy's distorted chuckles over the sounds of Lucy and my beating hearts. I look down at her, laying across my lap and have to rein in several stray thoughts, like how red her ears are and the tiny hint of pressure of her hip against my thighs and STOP IT, Natsu! I practically shriek at myself. I clear my throat.

"Um," I begin to say, but her shriek interrupts me. She suddenly starts scrambling backwards, off of me. But, in her flurry, her chest bumps across my groin. I end up bolting up, pushing her away in the process. She is just as quick to move away, and the two of us just stand, awkwardly, looking anywhere but at each other, blushes dusting our cheeks.

"Yo, Natsu! What are you two standing around for?" I snap my eyes towards Gray, who makes his way over.

"Fufufufu," Happy chortles, "These two liiiiike each other!"

"Shut up, Cat! I don't even know Natsu! Why would I like him?" Lucy successfully grabs a hold of Happy's tail and drags him back towards her.

"Eep! Scary Lucy!" Happy shrieks, trying to claw his way back to me.

"Seriously, Happy. If you actually want help from me, stop pissing both of us off."

"Gray-Sama!" Juvia squeals, rushing up the stairs, "Why didn't you wait for Juvia?!"

"I'm sure he was just in a hurry, Juvia," Lisanna states, joining the rest of us on the floor. She smiles reassuringly at Juvia.

"Lu-Chan! How was class with Bickslow?" Levy calls, pushing past the other three to grab Lucy's hands.

"Um," I look over at Lucy. Her cheeks are still pink, especially when she glances my way, only to quickly look away. "Uh, Bickslow sensei helped me understand a bit more about the responsibilities of a Celestial Spirit mage. It was pretty awesome! Even if it did drain a lot of my energy!"

"I'm so happy, Lu-Chan! I love what you did with your hair! When did you have time? But, it seems a lot longer?"

Lucy responds with a small giggle, "Well, that was one of my spirits, Cancer! He uses his pincers like a hair stylist! He even managed to grow it! I bet he'd love to do your hair sometime, too! Well, if you'd like?"

"That sounds awesome! I'm totally down!"

Gray approaches me and leans over to quietly whisper "So what was happening when I got here? Happy may exaggerate, but he doesn't pull shit from nowhere."

I push him back and glare, "None of your business, ice-breath!"

He laughs, "Well, now I know something's up! Shame, I wanted a crack at the busty blonde." He looks at the girl in question with a sultry glint in his eye. I know it won't help my cause, but I can't help but ignite at his words.

"Don't even go there, Gray."

He just laughs once more. "Oooo, I'm so scared! I can't believe your dick is finally working, flame head!"

"Well, at least I don't go around showing mine to everyone. Put your damn pants on, Gray."

"Fuck! When did that even happen?" Gray screams, forgetting our conversation as he searches around for his clothing, with a steaming Juvia trying to get a better look at his manhood.

"Not again, Gray!" Levy states, annoyed. "Don't look, Lucy! You really don't wanna see Gray right now." I turn back to the pair, pleased to see Lucy covering her eyes.

"Thanks, Levy-Chan! I definitely don't!" I laugh at Lucy's response.

"Looking for these, Gray?" Lyon states, walking through the room, just behind Loke, dangling Gray's jeans from one hand. "I'm going to have to remind Freed to reinforce his balcony barrier with a clothing factor. Erza was pretty pissed when these landed on her foot. I had to talk her out of coming up her, herself."

"Oh, man! Thanks Lyon! I owe you one!" Gray shuffles his pants back on.

"You know it. Now, everyone, take your seats, and let's begin class."

We do as we're told. I eagerly take my seat behind Lucy. Happy moves to sit on my desk but ends up poking Lucy in the head.

"I can't see with your head in the way." She turns to glare at him.

"Well what am I supposed to do about it?" He looks thoughtful for a moment.

"Hmm, can I sit on your desk instead of Natsu's?" She blinks, clearly not expecting his answer anymore than me.

"Um, sure?" She reaches over and picks him up, lifting him to sit on her desk.

"Traitor!" I hiss at him. He just smirks at me.

Lucy turns around and mouths a very guilty looking, "Sorry," at me.

I smile her way, as if to say not to worry about it. She turns back to Lyon, and I place my elbow on my desk, curling my hand around my cheek as I settle in for another boring lecture. The only good thing about class is that Lucy is so close. I take in a deep breath of peaches and cream, shifting my eyes to focus on Lyon, well, pretend to focus.

Lucy P.O.V.

I activate my lacrima tablet, sliding Happy's tail a little to the right as I do so. He is sound asleep and has been since around five minutes after class began. I move to take notes on what Lyon is saying but find my hand drifting to Happy's fur instead. I wonder why he's such a punk. He's annoyed me more times than not, today, and yet I can't help but run my fingers over his fur, soothingly.

"Gray, could you please tell the class how many hands should be used during maker magic?"

I look over at Gray, who smirks, knowingly, at Lyon.

"Two hands."

"Why?"

"Because anything less is too unstable. Two hands may seem like a hassle, but it's the best way to ensure both creative strength and lasting stability."

I raise my hand, tentatively.

"Yes, Lucy?"

"Um, you said 'should'. Does that mean it isn't necessary to use two hands?"

"Technically, yes." Lyon lifts a single hand and produces an Ice make: dove. The bird flies over to Juvia before shattering and leaving a single rose in its place. She stares at it, awkwardly, peeking sideways at Gray. Gray gives an annoyed glare at Lyon, before reaching over and grabbing the rose. He shatters it. Lyon simply rolls his eyes in response. "But, despite not being necessary, using two hands is still the safest method."

The rest of class passes fairly quickly. Partly because I'm still so tired, I struggle to pay attention. Thankfully, but obnoxiously, whenever my head starts to nod, Natsu tugs back on one of my pigtails, startling me into attention. Lyon doesn't have us do any combat practice, although he does have Gray demonstrate the difference between their ice make magic. Something about stationary vs mobile creation. I'm grateful class is going so quickly. I don't think I have much more energy left.

When class ends, Lyon dismisses himself and heads downstairs for his next class. I turn to Levy.

"What class is next?"

"Transformation, with Mira."

"Which floor is she currently on?"

"Well, normally she'd be upstairs, but I think today was a test day for Wendy and Romeo. So, they're probably all in her office, downstairs." Sure enough, after a few moments, the three of them, and Laxus, come up, together. Wendy and Romeo skip past us and head up to their floor, with Laxus following after a brief kiss to Mira's cheek.

Mira stands at the front of the room. "Well! Is everybody ready for class?" She scans the room. "Natsu? Did you have a question?"

I turn to see Natsu's hand raised. "Yeah. I was wondering if I could make a request for a dessert?"

She looks surprised, but before she can answer, Gray buts in.

"It better not be more of your weird spicy cravings. Nobody but you even likes that shit."

"Nope. Do you remember that peach dessert you made a few years back? I think it was called cobbler?"

"You want me to make peach cobbler?" Mira's voice sounds as perplexed as Gray's face looks.

"Yup! It sounds really delicious! Didn't you make some ice cream with it, last time, too? To go on top?"

"Ok. Now I know something is up," Gray glares at Natsu. "You're always saying that cold dessert is the stupidest thing ever."

"Not when it's with something super hot!"

"Enough, boys!" Mira states, effectively cutting off the budding argument. "I'll see what I can do, Natsu. Now, anyone else have a class related question before we begin? No? Good."

I do my best to take notes through Mira's class, similarly distracted with petting Happy, as I was during Lyon's class. I'm actually really surprised to see how many variations of transformation magic there are. Apparently, Mira, Lisanna and their brother Elfman all use a variation known as 'takeover' magic. But, even within that variation, each practices a different type.

"One of the greatest ways to ensure victory against a takeover or transformation mage is to get into their head. Both Elfman and I have experienced great difficulty in practicing our magic when faced with psychological distress. In fact, I couldn't really use my magic for a few years due to a psychological block in my mind. Elfman was held back by his fears and lack of conviction. If you can target the psychological weakness of a transformation mage, it makes their magic increasingly difficult to use. Although, when up against someone like Erza, finding a psychological weakness is really difficult. If you make the wrong attack, her resolve only strengthens." Gray and Natsu only seem to grow increasingly tense as Mira discusses Erza. From the little I've seen today, I'm not really very surprised.

"Another thing to remember when faced with a transformation mage, is to find a way to exploit weaker transformations. If you can force a transformation mage to use a style ill-suited to your own plan of attack, your chances of victory increase. Likewise, if you can find a way to reverse the conditions of their strongest forms, success could easily be yours. You have to be able to read the battlefield and all of its conditions." Mira, despite the instructions she is giving, maintains her priceless smile throughout the entirety of her lesson. She spends the first half of the hour instructing but creates a combat activity for the last half.

"Lucy, you look quite worn out. Why don't you sit this one out?" I'm embarrassed, feeling pretty week, but I'm also relieved for a chance to keep resting. Before Mira moves over to start the sparring activity, she steps over to me and whispers, kindly, "Don't worry, Lucy! You'll gain more stamina over time. For now, it's important to know your limits. Never expend more magic than you are physically able to."

The rest of the class passes in a blur of attacks my brain can hardly process. I'm only half surprised to see that Natsu is ever the energetic one, never seeming to tire of magic power or basic energy. Similar to how Bickslow divided the class, earlier, Lisanna and Mira pair up on one end, guiding the other five students in sparring activities meant to guide them in transformative defense. Happy wakes up near the end and climbs into my lap, commentating the event with a chatty smile.

Lyon walks up the stairs while the group is still battling, letting everyone know that it's time for the final class rotation. He moves past everyone to head upstairs, meeting Laxus as he moves into the room from above. They share a few brief words before Laxus heads to check in with Mira as she readies to leave the room. She leaves us with a final cheerful smile.

"What are you punks doing standing around? Sit your worthless butts down!" And with that barking command, the cheerfulness evaporates from the room. Laxus stands in front of us, glowering.

Natsu takes his seat, grumbling behind me. I can't really hear it, but I can tell it's not very nice. Somehow, Laxus hears and snaps. "Wanna say that again, idiot?"

"No thanks," Natsu's response reeks of 'smartass'. Clearly Laxus agrees, because a bolt of Lightning leaves his fingers and hits Natsu in the chest. I can feel my hair standing up with the static electricity hanging in the air. Natsu is on the ground twitching. My whole-body aches with sympathy. Clearly Laxus is not a person to piss off.

Natsu is only down, however, for a few seconds before he rises from the ground, flames licking around his entire body. He chucks a ball of fire in Laxus' direction. Laxus deflects it, somehow, only for it to smack into Gray, who quickly jumps into the fight, dragging Loke with him. I look to Levy, panicked. She only shrugs, as if to say ''Laxus' class is always like this." Then she stands and moves to one of the corners, opening a door and signaling me over. I enter the room and realize we're in a bathroom.

"Wait, how did I not notice this bathroom before now?"

"It's not obvious, so unless you're looking you won't find it," She grins.

The door opens behind me, and Lisanna steps in, "I think I'll sit this fight out." Her and Levy start talking, but I take a moment to really look around the room. It's fairly small: a simple sink, one enclosed stall, and that's about it. And yet, there is still a decent amount of wiggle room. Levy smiles and then calls out, "couch". Just like that, her words become a reality, and the three of us plop down with smiles. Well, four, once Happy pops in, reporting that things have somehow gotten crazier.

"So, is class actually going to happen at some point?" I ask, genuinely uncertain.

"Maybe. Laxus may be a teacher, but he's as hot headed as the rest of our class. He tends to assign a lot of homework, but 'teaches' with his fists." Lisanna rolls her eyes as she explains. "My sister sure has picked a weird one."

"How long have Mira and Laxus been a thing?"

"Hmm, I'm not even totally sure of the answer. Mira used to be a pretty wild kid, and Laxus went through a super rebellious phase. During those years, they were both far to self-absorbed to really pay attention to each other. But, once they did, it was a pretty immediate shift. So, who knows?" I try to picture a wild Mira, but I can't quite wrap my head around the sweet girl being anything but what she currently is. A rebellious Laxus, however, is not a difficult thing for my imagination, at all.

"Man, I'm super tired!" I groan out, after a few moments of companionable silence.

"I'm not surprised," Levy smiles at me. "Even I'm pretty beat, although, that's probably partially because we'd be in the middle of personal study on a normal day. As much as I love classes, even I get tired."

"I kind of wish personal study would be canceled, today," Lisanna groans.

"Again, with complaints against study time," I look to Levy, who laughs.

"Yep! I'm telling you, none of them get it!"

"So, if this fighting is Laxus' way of teaching, are we going to get in trouble for not participating?"

"Nah, they actually probably prefer it. He'll make us all fight sometimes, but he gets just as into the fighting as the others, out there. When we participate they have to rein in their attacks, and that makes all of them grumpy."

"Is this how Laxus teaches each level?"

"No. This class is the only one that ends up like this. Erza would never let this happen on her level, and Wendy and Romeo are way too relaxed to have an issue like this. And from what I understand, whenever Laxus is with the elementals during their hour of private study, he keeps it pretty formal. I guess saying that they do this everyday is a bit unfair, I'd say out of five class days, two to three, each week, end up like this. Really, I think Natsu and Laxus, more than everyone else, are just way to stir crazy at this time."

"Gotcha. Will it end anytime soon?"

Levy takes a second and checks the time. "Well, they've already wasted half of the class hour. I imagine they'll go at least another ten minutes, then remember what they're supposed to be doing and pull us back out."

Levy's prediction is spot on. Almost to the minute she'd predicted, a knock sounds on the door. "Gray-sama sent Juvia to get you guys!" Juvia states, peeking her head through the doorway. We all follow her out, Happy perching on my shoulder.

The smell of smoke permeates the air. I make my way to sit in front of a pouting Natsu. Happy leaps from my shoulder to greet him.

"Hey, Natsu! Did you win?"

Natsu mumbles something incoherent. I guess not, then?

"Alright, ladies. Sorry about the delay," Laxus stands with his arms crossed over his chest. "Now that Natsu's sorry ass has been beat into submission, let's continue with today's lesson." I hear Happy talking Natsu down, once more. I pull my lacrima tablet out and try to take notes as Laxus begins discussing the elemental class.

"The elemental class is one of the strongest, as far as brute strength is concerned," he states, "But, when faced with this classification in battle, the best way to gain an advantage is to find a way to use an elemental of opposing strength to that which you are faced with. For example, one reason Gray and Natsu are so well matched in battle is because Natsu uses elemental fire magic, and Gray uses Ice make magic. Gajeel's metal attacks are weaker against my lightning, because of the attraction principle involved in his metal. Similarly, Juvia's water is weak to my lightning. While many of you don't have elemental powers, your ingenuity could be a huge help. Levy, for example, uses solid-script, but if she uses it to create an element, she can either strengthen an ally's elemental attack, or clash with an enemy's. Is this all making sense, Lucy?"

I nod my head, grateful that yet another teacher has taken the time to put their lessons into a very basic sense. I recognize that the lecture portion of each class has probably been a bit more simplified, than usual, for my benefit.

The next few minutes pass in a like manner, with Laxus proposing scenarios and having various students respond to how they would react with their magic.

"So, Lucy," Laxus directs his question at me, "If you were faced against a fire wielder, similar to Natsu, what's a tactic you could use?"

I think about it for a second. "Well, one of my spirits is Aquarius. I suppose if I could locate a water source, summoning her would be my best bet. She could use her control of water to douse any flames."

"Excellent," Laxus states, giving me a nod of approval. I beam brightly, only to turn and glare at Natsu after he mumbles something about his flames being too strong for that.

"Juvia quite successfully proved earlier that even your flames can be put out, Natsu," I snap. Laxus grins at me, before concluding his lesson.

He reminds each of us to take advantage of individual study time, before disappearing down the stairs. Everyone groans as they move over to the tables, grabbing books and pulling out their lacrima tablets. I walk over to the bookshelves. Levy gives me a quick tour of how to find the books I need. They are divided by magical classification. She pulls out: Judging a Book by Its Cover: a basic guide on rewriting and disabling enchantments, the book Freed had assigned work from. I thank her as she grabs a stack of books and moves over to a table.

I look through the sections, quickly, before grabbing a book titled: Secrets of the Summoner: sensing souls and speaking with spirits. I take it and move towards a table. Natsu and happy raise their hands and call me over. I smile and sit next to them, eagerly propping the book open. I flip through the pages, quietly taking stock of the various chapters, within. Some appear to center around general information. Although, I do eventually come to a chapter on Celestial wizards. I eagerly begin reading about the process and importance of establishing a contract between both parties.

"Psst," comes a not so quiet or subtle hiss from beside me. I furrow my brows together, trying to ignore the interruption to my studies. However, it comes again, this time accompanied by a poke to my cheek. "Lucy," it adds in, this time.

I glare towards the two faces that eagerly await my acknowledgment, "What?!"

"What are you doing, Lucy?" Happy chirps.

"What you should be – studying!"

"Yeah, but what?" Natsu pushes.

I sigh, my hand running down my face in exasperation. "I'm reading about how to form a contract between a spirit and a key-holder."

"That sounds pretty cool, right Happy?"

"Oh, yeah! I wanna see it happen!"

"Lucy?" another voice asks quietly. I am beyond surprised to realize that it is Loke who spoke to me.

"Loke! Hi! What can I do for you?"

"Besides continue looking beautiful?"

I roll my eyes, despite the blush dusting over my body.

"I just, I overheard your conversation and I was curious if you could tell me if I heard you correctly?"

"Um, ok? Which part did you want me to clarify?"

"The part about the contract? Between who did you say it was?"

"Between a spirt and a key-holder? Why?"

"Oh, I just, well. I've never heard of celestial spirits and their . . . holders, described as such."

"Well, the book doesn't call them that. I've just been trying to come up with a better description than what the book says."

"What does the book say?" Happy asks, innocently.

"Well, it calls the holder a master. Somehow, that just seems, wrong, to me."

"Why?" Loke asks me. His question isn't flippant. Loke seems genuinely invested in my answer.

I bite my lip for a second, really thinking about how to explain my answer.

"Well, I don't know. Maybe it's naïve of me. After all, I am so new to this world I doubt I have any sort of right to a real opinion, but, to be called a 'master' of someone, it just seems wrong. If there is something I learned today, it is that there are many forms of magic. And, I suppose some of the kinds we've learned about, well, they could absolutely be called masters of their element, or type. But, the type of magic I use, calls forth spirits. But, that doesn't make me better or worse than whoever it is I bring forward. Just because these spirits live in another world doesn't mean that they aren't people, too. I've had only a little time to think about it, but I've been pondering all day what it means to be a Celestial Spirit Wizard. And, to me, I think it means that, rather than a person who can call forth a walking shield, I'm a holder of something precious. Not only do I hold a literal key to bridging two separate worlds, but I have been entrusted the care of spirits I hope will come to think of me as a friend. So, instead of calling myself their master, I'd like to imagine, I'm their holder, as responsible for their care and protection as bringing them forth would make them for mine. Perhaps all of this is silly, but, I guess, growing up how I did made me really aware of how problematic it is to suppose oneself better than another. I'd much rather be an equal than a dictator." All three of the boys surrounding me give me a smile.

"That's definitely what Fairy Tail is all about," Natsu says. "Just because we fight a lot, especially to prove who is most powerful, doesn't mean that we don't understand one another. We fight because we are all friends, for our friends."

"Aye, Sir!" Happy grins at his partner.

Loke is quiet, observing me. "Lucy," He eventually states, "I don't think it matters how long you've known about your powers, or how long any of us here have known you. I am so happy that Aquarius, Cancer, Taurus and Capricorn will have you for a mas- for a key-holder. I just wish every spirit had the same blessing. Promise me you'll grow strong enough to find more of," he breaks off for a brief second, almost like he had to hold back from saying something. "Well, more keys."

I smile, brightly, "You know, I just read something a minute ago, about Celestial Wizards. It mentions that when making a contract, it is essential for Celestial Wizards to always remember the worth of their word. It says that you can tell the caliber of one of us, by the extent to which we stand by our word and keep our promises. I've decided that my word is going to be a sacred thing. So, when I promise you, Loke, that I'll grow strong enough to hold onto as many keys as I can find and treasure, I mean it. I promise that I won't stop until I have gathered as many Celestial friends as do not already belong to another worthy wizard as possible." At the end of my statement I extend my hand out to Loke.

He looks down in surprise, before taking my offering. There is something odd about the feel of his hand in mine. However, I don't have much time to discover what or why, as his hand only shakes mine once, briskly, before slipping away. "Sorry for distracting you from your reading, Lucy, I'll leave you be, once more."

"It wasn't you who interrupted me, first," I state, as he stands and moves away. I turn to the real perpetrators of distraction, who are looking anywhere but at me. I turn back to my book to continue reading about contracts. The chapter is actually a bit mundane. I am not sure what I have been expecting, maybe a bit of blood, or a magical pen that writes a name into the stars. But, really, the contracts described seem like little more than the type I've been exposed to, by my father, for the last several years. At least I'll be well prepared for one aspect of the magical realm. Thanks Dad, I guess. I think, a touch sardonically. The hour is nearing its ending as I come to the next chapter, one on sensing spirits. I close the book, as the rest of the room begins to head for the stairs. I check with Levy, to see if we are allowed to borrow the books from here. She assures me that it will be absolutely fine, and with a smile we head down, together, to dinner.

The first thing I notice when we get downstairs is that everybody looks exhausted. More than just Natsu are crowding the bar, in search of Mira's dinner. When she gives the go ahead for people to begin serving themselves, the whole room goes into a flurry of motion. As quickly as humanly, well, wizardly possible, everyone rushes to a seating place with a plate full of food, digging in, hurriedly. And yet, their hurry carries with it the contradictory lethargy of people well worked. I make my way to the bar and begin to serve myself.

"Here you are, Lucy! Some remedies for headaches and the like!" Mira calls out, handing me a small box. I grab it, listening to the small clinking of glass within.

"Thank you so much, Mira!" She just waves me away with her flawless smile. I move over to sit next to Natsu. Somehow, despite all the friends I've made today, sitting with him comes the most naturally to me. Natsu and Happy are too busy digging into their food, in the most disgusting manner imaginable, to really notice me sit next to them.

Dinner is a delicious spicy chicken curry, nothing extremely fancy but absolutely scrumptious. I have to stop to take a drink every now and then, unaccustomed to the level of spice presented in the bowl. Natsu, however, doesn't stop for a single breath. He continues shoving food down his throat. When he finished his first bowl, he rushes to the bar to beg seconds, going so far as to ask for more chili powder. I stare in shock as he continues to eat with the same level of gusto. I eat as much as I can, but I can't finish my bowl. Natsu seems to notice me then, as I push around the remainders with my chopsticks.

"Are you gonna finish that?" He asks me, eagerly.

I simply push my bowl his way in answer. With a cheer of triumph, he downs the remainder of my bowl and leans back, letting out a loud sigh of satisfaction. A glance around the room shows that just about everyone else has finished eating. In fact, Makarov is moving towards the stage.

"Well, Brats!" He shouts, loudly. "I'm glad everyone survived the day, despite the slight shift in schedule. You're all released for the evening. Remember to be in your own room by midnight. Other than that, the evening is yours! Classes will fall into their normal routine, tomorrow. Now, the night is still young! Cana! How about another contest?" With little more said than that, he moves to grab a barrel and join Cana. I don't know how I feel about the master of the school engaging thoughtlessly a drinking contest with an underage drinker, but I guess maybe that's just the way Fairy Tail is. The rest of the room begins to shift.

"So, Lucy," Natsu asks, suddenly, "Can we still talk?" It takes me a second to understand what he means.

"Oh! Yeah! I'd love that! I want to hear all about Igneel!"

"Well then, come on!" He says, eagerly. He grabs my hand and pulls me from the room. Happy lands on his shoulder as he moves.

"Where are we going?"

"My room!" He calls back with a grin. He pulls me to the boy's dorms, Fairy Halls.

"So, how are room assignments, here?" I ask, curiously.

"The popsicle and Loke sleep on the left, here. Jet and Droy are on the right. Me and Metal-head sleep directly above Loke and Gray," I shiver at the look of mischief in his eyes as he states that, "And lastly, Elfman and Romeo are above jet and Droy, opposite me." We reach his room, and he pushes the door open.

The room is completely and utterly different from what I had seen when I had entered mine and Levy's. While the layout appears pretty much the same, the set-up is very different. For one, I can only see half of the room. To the right of the bathroom, a solid metal partition splits the room in two.

"What's up with the Iron curtain?" I ask Natsu, confused.

"That's Gajeel's doing. He likes his privacy. And since he's the Iron Dragon Slayer, well, he can do pretty much whatever he wants with the element."

"I see. So, this half, here, is your area?"

"Yup!" Happy and Natsu smile at me, speaking in unison. I take in the room, slowly. The walls have several little mementos tacked up, here and there, giving the room a somewhat cluttered feel. The floor doesn't appear to have too many messes. Where my bed faces Levy's, Natsu's bed lies directly against his wall, underneath a large window.

"Jealous! You have a window?" Natsu looks at me, funnily.

"You do, too, Lucy. Everybody has one." I think back to my room and realize that with all of Levy's bookshelves, our windows must be completely covered up.

"Huh. Well, I'll have to see if Levy can move just a few of her bookshelves. I've always appreciated having a window to look out from, or to keep open as I sleep. Natural breezes are the very best."

"You definitely should do that!" Natsu states, agreeing with me. "Then Happy can come visit you easier!"

I smile at my little exceed friend. "Sure! You're always welcome, Happy!"

"Thanks, Lucy! Hopefully you can have some fish for me every now and then!" I roll my eyes but nod. Natsu gestures towards his bed, and I take a seat bellow the window. He joins me, leaning his head back, against his headboard.

"So, Igneel. Tell me all about him?" I ask, hesitantly.

"Well, I'm not totally sure where to start."

"How about how you came to be his son? I mean, I am assuming that he isn't your birth father?"

Natsu grins, "Nah. But that's not really what matters. Okay. So, I actually don't remember exactly how we met. Honestly, It was kind of like, one day I woke up and Igneel was just there. I don't know who I was before then, if I had a family, or not. The only thing I know is my last name, Dragneel. I assumed for a long time that it had something to do with the language of the dragons. But, when I asked Igneel what it meant, he just laughed at me. Apparently, Dragneel is my family's name. But, he wouldn't tell me anything else when I asked, said he'd tell me when I got older. Except, he disappeared several years ago."

"What do you mean he disappeared?"

"I mean, he disappeared. I fell asleep one night, curled under his wing, only to wake up, without my dad, the next morning."

"That's strange. So, you woke up all alone?"

"Not exactly. I woke up in a clearing with two others, Gajeel and Wendy. Gajeel's dad, Metalicana, and Wendy's mom, Grandeeney, disappeared the same night as Igneel. The three of us actually grew up somewhat together. The thing about dragons is they have these things called nests. My dad was the drake in our nest. Grandeeney and Metalicana, a mated pair, were his closest friends, and, though not by blood, lived like his siblings. Even though us slayers were all adopted by the dragons, we consider one another family. The two of them are like cousins to me. I think I mentioned earlier that the two of them are considered hatchlings? That's basically the draconic form of siblings. Is this making sense?"

I try to take in everything that Natsu is saying, but I guess he had begun to sense a little confusion on my part. I ponder his words and nod, slowly. "I think so. Although, I still don't really understand what happened to your dragons."

Natsu gives me a sad smile. "Trust me, if I knew that, I'd sleep much better at night. We don't know why they left us, or where they went. But, they left us together. They actually left us a short distance from town. We only had to wander a bit before we discovered Fairy Tail. The crazy thing is, all three of us remember, just a little, two other dragons as well as slayers. But, they were gone from the nest before our parents disappeared. So, we don't know who they are or how to find them. We're just positive that there are two more of us, at least, somewhere. We've always wondered if maybe finding them would help us find our own parents. Although, they could be in the exact same boat as us. Someday we'll know."

"You sound pretty sure."

"Oh, I am. I never give up on anything, Luce. I'm not gonna rest until I've found my dad and discovered why he left me. Whatever the reason, and no matter how angry I am that they're gone, I know my dad would never have left me without a good reason. Dad was the one who taught me, after all, that family is everything. I trust he had a reason."

"You know," I say, thoughtfully, "you may seem like a bit of a hot head, but, I can tell you really care about family, Natsu. And not just your dad. You love your fairy tail family."

"Of course. When my dad disappeared, this became my home. I've been able to grow stronger, but, also, Makarov lets us search for our parents. You probably don't know this, but before Fairy tail and the other schools were schools, they were guilds, back when magic wasn't myth and wizards and witches weren't burned at stakes."
"Really? I had no idea! How has the history affected things?"

"Well, long ago the guilds would get many job requests, which wizards would take on. Anybody, particularly those without magic, could request jobs. But, now, since they have no idea we exist outside, any requests that could be made are within the hidden magical world. During the breaks, sometimes even on weekends, Gramps lets us take on jobs. It's an opportunity for younger students to pair up with more experienced students and gain magical experience. It also lets students figure out what they want to do after they finish school."

"What kind of options are there?"

"Well, obviously, there are teaching jobs. A huge chunk of Fairy Tail students become teachers because they don't want to leave here. There are also representatives of Fairy Tail, the small guild portion of Fairy Tail, that go out doing various tasks. Like, Erza's boyfriend, Jellal."

"Wait, Erza has a boyfriend?!"

Natsu laughs, "Oh, yeah. She does. Though I don't know how anyone could be with her. She's terrifying. But, anyways, Erza has a boyfriend, Jellal, who graduated from Fairy Tail last year. However, he's such a powerful wizard that he's actually a representative, working with the magic council and army. Last I heard from Erza, he goes around tracking down rogue wizards."

"That's crazy! What other kind of representatives are there?"

"Well, there are the representatives of the board. There is a main one for each type of magic taught in school. I'm not actually sure what they do, you'd best ask Levy when you get a chance."

"I guess that makes sense," I smile, "Levy seems to know everything about, well, everything. But, I'm still a little confused about what students do after they finished."

"Yeah, I guess it is a little confusing. Because, at face value, Fairy Tail is a school. The campus is dedicated towards education. But the school takes on job requests. Some graduates join the board to do these assignments, or join other organizations, retaining the Fairy Tail title, to bring in more jobs or do a single job, tied to Fairy Tail's name."

"I sort of get it, but I guess I'll ask Levy for a more in-depth explanation, later. Or, perhaps, even just see if she has a book." I smile at him.

"Probably best. Especially since, I really wanna hear you explain something, now."

"Really? What could I possibly have to tell you?"

"Your story," He smiles, "You said you'd tell me, earlier."

I blush a little. "It's really not that great," I state, awkwardly.

"What's that matter? I don't care if your past is good, bad, or awkward. I just care that it's yours. How is it that you didn't know you had magic? How did you end up here with nothing more than a single bag? I'm seriously dying to know, Luce!"

"Well, I guess it all kind of goes back to several years ago for me, as well. My mom died when I was pretty young. My dad, I'm pretty sure, isn't a wizard. However, in the non-magical world, my dad is a big deal. He started a lot of companies, particularly the Hearfilia Railroads. Which means, I grew up in a mansion. The little I remember from my life before Mom died, is happy. Now that I know it wasn't all a dream, I know it was filled calling on Mom's spirits and enjoying life. But, she died. Honestly, I don't even really know how. I just know she was sick. But, after she died, Dad changed. Where before he seemed happy and eager to play and let go, he grew hard and cold. He must have turned against magic, pouring himself into his business and doing his best to force it on me as well. I wasn't allowed to go to public school; I was forced to learn more than the usual subjects. He made me take many business classes. I was even taught 'proper decorum' for ladies. Which means, he brought in the worst tutors imaginable to shove manners and other useless things down my throat. I always had to dress in stuffy clothing, and I became little more than an item to sell off for a profit."

"What do you mean by that? He wasn't going to sell you like, as a slave, right?"

"Not exactly. I mean, I don't think marriage is supposed to be slavery. But, what my dad wanted was to use my potential marriage as a means to better his business. Just yesterday, which, by the way, was my birthday, I was handed a contract and told I had to sign it. Dad has this plan to marry me off to this other company, making it so that, with our marriage, the businesses combine their wealth. But, I'd really rather not be handed off in such a way."

"I can't believe that! He actually wanted to just, send you away to make more money?"

"Yep! Happy Birthday to me!"

"I'm so sorry, Lucy! But, then, how did you end up here, instead?"

"Well, while I was waiting for him in his office, I opened a drawer and found two letters addressed to me, one was from my mother, the second from Master Makarov. The first was written just before my Mom died, the second was sent out two years ago, inviting me to attend, here."

"I can't believe he kept those from you!"

"I can. Father is cruel. But, that doesn't matter, now. I took the letters, packed a bag of clothes and jewelry and climbed down the vines from my room. Once I was far enough from home, I sold some jewelry for cash and bought a ticket straight here. I rode the train through the night and, voila! Here I am."

"I hate the train," Natsu says, going a little green.

"Why?"

"Natsu gets motion sick," Happy states, sleepily, speaking for the first time in several moments.

"I'm sorry," I say, noticing Natsu looking queasy just talking about it, "But, we're not actually moving, so don't puke on me!" He nods, slowly.

"Sorry, I just don't do well with motion, at all. But, let's see… you came overnight. That means you must be really tired! No wonder you fell asleep on your desk, earlier!"

"Yeah, that combined with all of the magic I've never really used before, well, let's just say, I'm completely drained!"

"I don't blame you, Lucy. It's still a bit early, but if you want, I can walk you to your place, now, so you can get some sleep?"

"I'd really like that, but I still haven't even seen everything I wanted to, like the recreation hall."

"Don't worry, I can show you all of that, tomorrow."

"Well then, sure, let's head over to my room. Or," I begin, shifting a little on the bed, "I'm worried I'll fall asleep right here!"

Natsu laughs, quietly, "I don't mind sharing my bed with you, but you'd have to sneak in. Erza does a room check, every night."

I blush at Natsu's words. "Don't worry, Natsu, I have no intention of sneaking into your bed!"

He laughs again, "Fair enough," I'm about to relax when he winks and adds, "I'll just have to sneak into yours."

"Natsu!" I hiss, smacking his arm, lightly. He jumps up, avoiding a second slap and holds his hand out to me.

"Happy's gonna be asleep for hours. Come on, I'll take you back, now."

I give Happy a very gentle stroke, before taking Natsu's hand and standing.

We don't encounter anyone until we are just about to my room. Natsu mumbles something incoherent and, just before we reach the door, it opens and Gajeel steps out, calling behind him,

"Thanks for helping me with that assignment, Shrimp!" He steps past us, grunting at Natsu and nodding at me.

"Gajeel," I say in acknowledgement before walking into my room with Natsu.

"Hi, Levy!" I call out, moving towards her. She is moving around a few of her books. She turns and looks over her shoulder.

"Hey, Lucy! I wondered when you'd be back!"

"Sorry! Natsu and I got caught, talking!" She looks between the two of us, almost knowingly.

"I see. Hey, Natsu! Happy isn't with you guys?"

"Nah, he fell asleep while we were talking. Lucy looked like she was about to crash, so I brought her back. Don't want Erza ripping my head off on Lucy's first night!"

"I don't blame you! And I'm grateful! Poor Lucy has had a crazy enough day."

"Yeah, yeah. I'm hopeless. Thanks guys." I roll my eyes as I walk to set my books, tablet, and the box of Mira's remedies down on a small nightstand by my bed. "Oh, Levy, I wanted to ask you. Do we have windows?"

"Huh?" Levy asks confused, for a brief moment, before smacking her forehead. "Oh, goodness! I'm sorry, Lucy! I forget that some people actually prefer to have their window's open! I get so frustrated by the wind blowing my books around that I keep them shut, and then I ran out of space, so I just covered them!"

"Oh, don't worry! I came in and interrupted your routine! I just, well, growing up how I did, confined and all, it always meant a lot to me to be able to stare out my window," I mumble awkwardly.

"I completely understand. Let's see," She looks at the bookshelves by me bed, then to Natsu. "Could you stick around for a few moments and help me get Lucy's half cleared up?"

"Sure!" He says with a grin. He leans closer and whispers quietly, "It will make sneaking in a little bit easier."
I smack Natsu before turning to Levy. "If you move all of the bookshelves, what will you do with them?"

"Hmm, well, I was thinking that, maybe, we could put them in the middle of the room? I don't exactly want to block off our sides of the room, I'd love to stay up chatting every now and then, but If we lined them up on my side of the room, it would add a small partition and, we could clear off a couple of the middle shelves, kind of like a window into each side. If you ever crazy need privacy you could put some things on the shelves to block things. We could get a couch or something to put somewhere, as well, so that when we want to talk, we can sit together?"

"That sounds perfect, Levy!" I squeal.

Natsu chuckles. "I'm pretty sure you're the one who needs privacy, Levy," Natsu winks. Surprisingly, she blushes. I don't really get the story, there, but I move past it quickly, excited to get to work. Natsu helps the two of us move around the bookshelves. Surprisingly, Levy clears out the shelves above her bed as well, adding them to our makeshift partition. The end result is very unique, but suits us, well. By the time we finish, I can tell I'm at the very end of my rope. Levy pushes aside a small section of a shelf, leaving me room to place my small collection. I slip them into place, before hugging her, gently.

"Thanks for being so quick to accommodate me, Levy. You shouldn't have to, but it means the world to me." She grins at me and states something about how it was nothing.

I turn to Natsu with a warm smile, "And you, thank you for your help. And for talking with me. It was nice to tell someone about where I come from. I also loved hearing about your dad. I hope we can have more conversations in the future."

"Well, duh! You're my family now, Luce! Plus, I promised I'd show you the Rec Hall, tomorrow. We can talk plenty then and before class and while we eat breakfast and while we eat-"

"I get it! We can talk!" I cut in, smiling.

"Good!" He turns to Levy, "Have a good night!" Then back to me, ruffling my bangs a bit as he moves towards my bed, "Make sure you get enough sleep!" He calls, opening my window. I watch in confusion for a brief second before realizing his intention.

"Wait, Natsu! Use the do-" But, It's too late. With a smirk and a wink Natsu pushes himself out the window. I rush over, staring through the night as I see his figure running towards Fairy Halls.

With a sigh, I collapse on my bed and groan, loudly, "Why do I get the feeling I'm really going to regret opening access to my window?"

Well, guys! There you had a very VERY long chapter!

I had a good (if not long) time writing it! Thank you to AL of you who reviewed/favorited/followed my story! I appreciate ALL of you!

See you VERY soon! (PROMISE!)

~M

Now, For my responses to you lovely reviewers:

Firefly9917: I fully intend on making LisXBix be a thing EVENTUALLY. But, there might be some stuff that happens BEFORE then. I completely adore the thunder legion with the Strauss siblings as well. As for your comment about my responses. Each of your reviews means the world to me. The least I can do is express that through a response.

HelloJawsie: I was really worried that my story isn't unique. SO I appreciate your reassurance.

Gigi-San28: I am glad that you binge read. I definitely do the same when I like a story! About the sketches. They are officially on Tumblr, along with several other fairy tail drawings I have done. (Although my Twitter has the more quality pictures). There are links on my profile, but I will also make sure they are included in this chapter. Just keep in mind, the sketches are sketchy.

Crystal Kitty842: I apologize for not updating sooner. It certainly was not my intention. But, I remember getting your review and it brightened my day. The relationship building is a huge deal to me, so I'm glad it meets with your approval!

Valerioux: Believe me when I say that Lucy's strength is something I have every intention of developing. I have many opinions about her strength in anime/manga. I believe she is stronger than anybody gives her credit for. My intention with my story is to build on that strength, with twists of my own.

Larissa: I appreciated your comment. Believe me, I want Lucy to figure out Loke DESPERATELY. Every sentence I have to write with him not being home, being stranded, being alone, being sad (which this chapter had plenty of) … well, it breaks my heart to write. I don't know how much of that depressing content I can write before I snap.

TheJSmooth: Thank you for reviewing! I appreciated the fact that you commented reactions as you read through each chapter. That totally made my day to read. As you made them I got a good look at how my readers are feeling, which I totally appreciated.

Startailsbomber: Every time a reader says they read it in one go, my heart becomes very happy. I do the same thing, with stories that I LIKE. So, it makes me happy.

Valythe: Your review made me happy. I feel the love this story gets, I just feel horrible you had to wait so long for more.

FantasyDreamer06: First off, don't worry about skimming through the schedule. If I didn't write it, I probably would have as well. It is there more for my crazy self, who needed to intensely plan things out in order to avoid contradictions later one. I am so glad you belong to the slow relationship build camp. I definitely appreciate when a story, especially one that deals with them still in their later teen years, takes their relationship slow. It's more realistic.

: One of my biggest fears in writing has been that I will lose the characters, in my attempts to write the unique story. It is a difficult balance to achieve, but your praise makes me feel just a little bit more confident in my story. So, thank you.

Beefcakebarbierenewed: Trust me when I say you have not seen the last of the NaLu! They will develop and get better from here!

Ravenqueen162: I am sorry it took so long to update! But thank you for your kind words! Lucy is only going to get stronger and NaLu is going to burn! (In a good way)

Guest: When I got your review I was sick, tired and watching a show with my younger sister. I was so worried that your review would be negative, after all, one can only get so many positives before somebody disagrees, right? So, I made my sister read your review to me…twice, because I didn't believe it, it was so nice. I have put in a lot of effort, especially when it comes to backstory and structure. Therefore, your approval of said aspects really made me happy. Your review was a light on a very dark day.