Disclaimer: I don't own Fairy Tail. All rights belong to Hiro Mashima.
Here you are. Even though it's not quite early in the afternoon it is being updated on Friday so I am happy for that. The reason it's late though is obviously, Black Friday! If you guys went out there today I hope you made it back alive with a good bargain or two. Lol, anyways, enjoy~!
Lucy and Levy walked slowly back to Lucy's apartment, still smiling from Mira's announcement earlier that evening. A day of fun when the Dragon Slayers got back would raise everyone's spirits and it really would be a lot of fun.
"Levy, do you want a shower first tonight?" Lucy asked suddenly, breaking the silence stretching over the sleeping city.
"You go ahead." Levy replied, staring absently up at the moon and wondering if Gajeel could see it where he was now. Mavis, I'm cheesy... I should probably cut back on those romance novels... Levy thought to herself, turning to smile at Lucy.
"Lu-chan..." She called, quickly earning the attention of the blond. "Race you!" Lucy grinned at her friend.
"You're on!" She yelled, breaking out into a run. Levy giggled madly and ran after her friend.
When the two arrived at Lucy's house they were both breathless and pink in the face.
"I... win!" Lucy gasped victoriously, pushing open the door and stumbling to her couch where she flung herself down in exhaustion.
"Nice... one... Lu-Chan." Levy smiled, following her friend to the couch.
"Lushy! Is that you?" Happy suddenly called, flitting over from Lucy's bed while rubbing his eyes sleepily.
"Hi Happy." She greeted, pulling him into her lap and rubbing his head.
Pantherlily padded over from Lucy's bed as well, stifling a yawn.
"Welcome back." He murmured, closing the front door.
"Thanks Lily." Levy yawned from her spot on the couch. Pantherlily smiled warmly and jumped up onto the couch, curling up on her stomach while purring happily.
Lucy jerked up from her spot on the couch and announced that she would be taking her shower now. Levy nodded sleepily and idly rubbed Lily's head while Happy curled up on her feet.
"Hello Levy." Carla sniffed, arching her back contentedly before curling up beside Happy. All of the exceeds had decided to stay with each other but Lily and Happy had wanted to stay with their partners respective mates so they all stayed at Lucy's.
Levy murmured a greeting and carefully rolled over, pulling Pantherlily to her chest and hugging him tightly. Lily purred happily and rubbed his head into her neck. The four stayed in that comfortable silence until Lucy exited the bathroom shouting that the shower was still running.
Levy quickly snapped open her eyes and sat up, carefully picking up the cats and laying them out on the couch cushions where she had lain. Following the sound of Lucy's humming Levy made her way into Lucy's room and snatched two towels from the closet as her friend changed.
Latching the bathroom door shut behind her Levy laid the towels over the edge of the sink and peeled off her clothes, throwing them down onto the floor. She then stepped into the shower and let out a sigh as the hot water cascaded down her body and washed away her worries. Feeling her muscles relax under the constant spray Levy slowly lowered herself to the ground and laid back against the wall, letting the water pour down onto her stomach and thighs.
Grabbing the bar of soap from beside the tap Levy languidly washed her body, blushing as she remembered the first shower she had in Gajeel's house. Shaking her head Levy quickly washed her hair and rinsed her whole body in cool water before turning off the tap and stepping out.
Snatching the towels Levy wrapped one around her body, tucking it in under her arm, and glanced at her reflexion in the mirror. Rivulets of water were travelling downwards from curly strands of hair over her shoulders. Her cheeks were flushed a light pink and her eyes seemed distant. Frowning at herself Levy wondered how Gajeel always thought she was beautiful. Her eyes flitted across her face. Sure, she could be called pretty or cute but beautiful? Nah.
Smiling softly Levy couldn't help but wish Gajeel were there. No matter what she thought of herself Gajeel always showed her how beautiful she really was, or at least made her feel beautiful and that's what really mattered to her.
Grabbing the other towel Levy dried her hair and carefully pulled it back in the bandana Gajeel had given her. Once all the stray pieces had been shoved into the bandana Levy brushed her teeth and completely removed the makeup she had worn that day. Nodding at her appearance, Levy gathered her clothes in her arms and exited the bathroom, dumping the used clothes into the laundry hamper right outside the door and padding down the hall to Lucy's room.
Slipping into her friends darkened room Levy pulled on a pair of pajamas and some slippers Lucy had near her bed. Then she made her way back to the living room where Lucy was working on her daily letter to her mother. As quietly as she could Levy padded to the kitchen and poured herself a glass of water.
Standing alone in the darkness Levy slowly sipped her water. A few minutes later she placed the glass in the sink and, turning to leave, glimpsed a shape in the doorway.
"Lu-Chan?" She called softly, taking a hesitant step forwards. When there was no response Levy felt her heart speed up and she took a hasty step backwards and right into something solid. Letting out a squeal of fright Levy whirled around to see a man dressed in all black who was easily three times her size. He raised his hands suddenly, lunging for her.
"Lily!" She screamed, backing up quickly. She had no weapons on her right now and highly doubted any physical attacks she made would actually hurt him.
A large black shape suddenly stepped in front of her, blocking her view of her attacker. Not daring to breath Levy squeezed her eyes shut and curled into a ball on the floor. There was a series of thuds and grunts until a loud thump echoed throughout Lucy's kitchen as something heavy hit the floor.
A set of hands suddenly grabbed her shoulders and Levy let out a shriek of fear, slapping the hands away. The hands released their grip on her and a pair of furry paws replaced them.
"Lily?" She questioned hesitantly, cracking open her eyes. Before her stood Pantherlily in his regular form and Levy let out a sob as she flung her arms around him, clutching him to her in terror.
"You're okay Levy. He won't hurt you." Lucy's soothing voice sounded from off to her right. Levy glanced up through teary eyes and noticed her best friend sitting beside her with a chagrined smile. "Guess I shouldn't have tried to touch you, eh?" She questioned softly, rubbing the back of her neck.
"Was that you Lu-Chan? I'm sorry, I was so scared. I... I thought-" She broke off with a loud sob and Lucy quickly wrapped her arms around her sobbing friend.
"It's not your fault. Don't be scared, okay? You have Lily and I watching out for you, right?" Lucy soothed, rubbing Levy's back consolingly.
"R-right." Levy hiccupped, wiping her eyes. Lucy smiled softly and stood up, offering a hand to Levy. Levy gratefully took it and let herself be pulled up.
"Lily and I will deal with him." Lucy said, jerking her head towards the man on her kitchen floor. "You go lay down in my room with Happy and Carla, we'll be there in a moment." Levy nodded briefly and relinquished her hold on Pantherlily. Lucy then gave Levy a firm push and Levy quickly darted down the hall, diving under the covers on Lucy's bed. Happy and Carla followed soon after and Carla curled up on her pillow while Happy curled into the small of her back.
Taking deep breaths Levy attempted to slow her heart rate down and listened while Lucy and Lily talked quietly in the other room. She couldn't make out what they were saying but the conversation ended right then and she focused on the sounds of their footsteps. She heard a thud as Lily changed into his battle form and heard Lucy's lighter steps make their way down the hall towards her bedroom.
The door opened soundlessly and Levy listened to Lucy's sock covered feet pad over to the bed. The bed moved slightly as Lucy climbed under the covers and the warmth on her back from Happy was replaced with Lucy's back as she took Happy to cuddle.
"Lu-Chan? Where's Lily?" She asked shakily, replaying the scene of seeing the man over and over again.
"He's taking the man to the guild. A Raven Tail member most likely... Lily will be back in a few minutes, try to fall asleep, okay?" Lucy murmured, yawning slightly.
"Okay... sorry to cause so much trouble Lu-Chan..." Levy mumbled, trying not to break down crying.
"You're not trouble. Besides, with you here that means I have Pantherlily for protection too. You're more of a bonus than a burden. And anyways, what are best friends for?" Lucy turned to face Levy and rolled Levy over as well so she could look her in the eye. Levy looked up at Lucy and gave her a shaky but grateful smile as she hugged her friend tightly.
"Thank you Lu-Chan." She murmured, pulling away to nestle into her side of the bed. Lucy brushed off the thanks and shifted slightly so that Happy could be more comfortable.
A silence that was neither worried or relaxed fell over the two girls and was only broken when Happy suddenly poked his head up.
"Lucy... I miss Natsu." He whispered, pushing his face into her arm.
"I know Happy... I do too." Lucy replied, her eyes brimming with tears. Levy reached out a hand and patted Lucy's arm comfortingly.
"I miss Gajeel too." She whispered and for a moment the two girls shared a look off understanding and longing before Lucy turned her attention back to Happy and wrapped her arms around the sniffling ball of blue fur.
"He'll be back, he promised." Lucy reassured, patting Happy's head consolingly. Happy pushed his head into Lucy's stomach and curled up while Lucy kept her arms wrapped tightly around his small body. Carla, who had remained silent throughout most of the night suddenly stood up from Levy's pillow and nudged Lucy's arms with her nose. Lucy quickly raised her arms and Carla slipped in beside Happy, pushing close to his body. Happy shifted himself slightly so that Carla could curl into his side and turned his head so that his muzzle was pressed to her muzzle. Lucy then pulled the blanket up to her chest and laid an arm over the two cats at her stomach.
Levy smiled softly at the two cats and couldn't help but wish that she was in Carla's position with Gajeel in Happy's. Her ears suddenly twitched as she heard the front door click shut and the locks slide into place. Light footsteps sounded down the hall and the bedroom door was pushed shut as the newcomer entered the bedroom.
"Levy?" A voice called from the foot of the bed. Levy recognized Pantherlily's voice and patted the bed softly. Pantherlily hopped up to the end of the bed and stepped over Levy's legs, silently making his way to Levy's head. "Good night." He murmured, touching his nose to hers before pushing under the blanket and curling up by Levy's chest. Levy quickly wrapped her arms around his small body and hugged him close to her.
"Good night..." Gajeel...
(^.^) (^.^)
The large iron door to the Dragon Slayers chamber squealed in protest as it opened and Ivan stepped inside, glancing briefly at each Slayer in return. They were all lounging against the far wall and watched through heavily lidded eyes as Ivan walked a few steps closer to them.
"Good morning." Ivan greeted brightly, smirking as none of them made a move to attack. "Tired already? Why's that? It's only ten in the morning..." Ivan laughed, earning himself annoyed glares.
"Morning father." Laxus spat angrily, coming dangerously close to moving from his position.
Last night the Dragon Slayers had come up with two main plans. One was to wait until evening and escape and the other was to wait and see if anyone came and opened their door since then they could knock the person out and slip out virtually unnoticed.
"Oh come now son. You're not still mourning your mother, are you?" Ivan drawled, smiling sadistically at the rage flaring in his son's eyes.
"Oh please Laxus. She may have been nice but that was all she had going for her. Even you should know that." A woman's voice suddenly laughed and a beautiful young woman stepped into the room behind Ivan. She had long red hair tied in a braid that hung over her shoulder and a short, form fitting black dress that was coyly clinging to her more than ample curves.
"Cecilia?" Laxus growled, lurching to his feet.
"That's right my dear. Goodness, if only your mother could see you now. Trapped like an animal and forced into slavery. Do you think she'd be proud?" Cecilia laughed sadistically, slowly walking over to Laxus in bright red heels. Laxus growled angrily at her, his whole body shaking with barely contained rage.
"You're pathetic." Cecilia snarled, slapping him forcefully. Laxus' eyes burned with hatred and he lunged at Cecilia but was thrown backwards as Ivan protected Cecilia from the attack.
"Don't touch her." Ivan whispered threateningly. Laxus picked himself up of the floor and faced his father, a dark aura surrounding him.
"Don't touch her?" He shouted angrily. "You expect me not to avenge mom's death? Do you still remember her? You loved her, I know you did!" His anger reached a new height as the air around them crackled with lightening. "That doesn't matter now though, does it? You are one sick son of a bitch! What about mom dammit? What about her?" He was snarling now and Ivan's eyes flashed with pain. Laxus raised his fist to strike but was stopped suddenly as small arms wrapped around his waist from behind.
"Please stop Gajeel, please." Wendy whispered through her sobs. Laxus' eyes softened slightly and he laid a hand on her head, turning to glare at his father.
"Leave me the fuck alone. You never deserved mom." Ivan flinched at the words but took a step backwards, motioning for Cecilia to follow. As the duo reached the door Cecilia glanced back at Laxus and smirked sadistically.
"It was nice that she died though. Saved me a lot of work." Then the door shut behind them and Laxus slumped to the floor, tears misting in his eyes. Wendy wound her arms around his neck and hugged him tightly.
"It's okay Laxus..." She murmured, tears dripping onto his shoulder from her quivering chin. Laxus wordlessly patted her head, closing his eyes slowly.
"I guess we'll go at night. Sorry everyone." He mumbled, hanging his head. Natsu and Gajeel shrugged from where they sat.
"At least we have a basic idea of what we're up against now." Gajeel murmured, trying not to break down the door in his fury. You don't treat your fucking mate like that. He couldn't get that thought out of his mind as he pictured himself as Ivan and Levy as Laxus' mother. Shaking his head roughly Gajeel reassured himself that that would never happen.
Natsu clapped his shoulder in a gesture showing he understood and agreed with Gajeel, his body shaking in rage and disgust.
Laxus pulled Wendy's arms from around his neck and stood up, his eyes burning with fierce determination.
"We're leaving tonight. Any objections?" Laxus declared firmly, not leaving space for objections. The other Dragon Slayers nodded in agreement while Laxus walked to the center of the room, launching his roar at the ceiling and watching as it cracked and crumbled away to nothing.
Wendy smirked at Laxus and used her magic to shoot herself upwards, hovering just above the room before floating back down.
"I can go get reinforcements if you'd like." Wendy offered shyly, tracing the tile of the floor.
Laxus nodded at her suggestion and motioned for her to come towards him. She did so quickly, stopping in front of him and peering curiously up at him.
"Be careful, okay? I don't like how easy it is to escape." Wendy nodded solemnly and Gajeel and Natsu both exchanged a glance. It did seem rather concerning, especially after what happened between Ivan and Laxus' mother. Did the man have a death wish?
"I'll be back!" Wendy reassured them, bursting through the hole in the roof and zipping away faster than they thought she could go.
"You better be squirt." Gajeel grunted, walking over to the door and peeling off a strip. Taking a bite out of the thick metal Gajeel smirked. "That bastard is really retarded."
Natsu watched with wide eyes as Gajeel's power spiked with the single bite and hurried to stop Gajeel.
"Wait! If you eat that little by little you'll give the lacrima way too much power and wear yourself out!" Gajeel froze and glanced at Laxus.
The blond was leaning against the wall for support with his eyes shut. His legs were shaking from fatigue and there was a slight sheen of sweat on his brow.
"Sorry..." Natsu mumbled, approaching the blond and knocking him out with a swift punch to the stomach. Gajeel watched as Laxus slumped forwards onto Natsu's waiting shoulder. "He'll thank me later." Gajeel quickly jumped up and helped Natsu carry Laxus over to the thin pile of blankets.
After laying Laxus down Gajeel and Natsu sat down beside him, absently staring at the clouds as they scudded by. They now had no choice but to wait until Laxus woke up to begin their escape. Hopefully Wendy would be back with people by then...
(^.^) (^.^)
Air screamed as it shot past Wendy's face, flinging her hair every which way and obscuring her vision. There was a thundering noise behind her and Wendy refused to look back, picking up speed and darting past trees as though they were blades of grass.
A blast of heat suddenly enveloped her and Wendy let out a gasp of shock as the breath was ripped from her lungs. Her hands faltered with fear and she went flying towards the ground. Attempting to soften the landing Wendy put an air pocket below her but it exploded on impact and she slammed into a tree.
Her chest heaving painfully Wendy pushed herself of the ground, gripping the tree for support. She had a gash on her right calf that was bleeding profusely but when she tried to put weight on it she let out a cry of pain and collapsed, shaking as tremors of searing pain shot down her leg.
Gritting her teeth Wendy pulled herself up, limping as quickly as she could and using every possible support. She heard shouts behind her and glanced back, her eyes going wide in terror as she saw two males who appeared older than Laxus chasing her. They were gaining on her quite easily and Wendy ripped the cloth off her arm, trying it tightly around her leg to staunch the flow of blood.
The blue cloth was rapidly turning purple but Wendy set her eyes determinedly and starting running, limping horribly as her leg threatened to give way with each step. Grabbing a tree near her Wendy pushed herself forwards, screaming when the tree caught fire and burned her hand.
Glancing backwards once again she noticed that one of them had their hands raised, poised for an attack. Turning sharply she veered through the trees, choking back her fear as, one by one, the trees caught fire.
She listened as the fire roared and crackled, looming around her as though it would consume her. Sucking in a breath of the smoke-filled air Wendy strained her eyes to see through the film covering her eyes. The air quickly turned foul and Wendy hunched over, hobbling though the burning forest as best as she could. Her eyes started watering and she stumbled over a root, smashing into the ground.
Suddenly a pair of arms wrapped around her waist and she felt a wet cloth pressed against her mouth and nose. Shutting her eyes against the burning sensation Wendy felt the ground shake beneath the person holding her and froze in fear. Was she done for already? How could she have failed the others?
"Hey, open your eyes." A hoarse voice commanded and Wendy forced herself to open her burning eyes, coughing harshly into the cloth. "You're not safe yet. Can you run?" The person holding her asked. Wendy looked up to see a younger man watching her and she nodded hesitantly. His eyes softening in concern, the man gently lowered her to the ground and removed the rag over her face.
"Th-thank you." Wendy choked, the fresh air grating against her raw throat.
"Don't worry about it, now get out of here. Hurry!" He growled, shoving her towards Fairy Tail. Wendy blinked in confusion but did as he said when she noticed the sorrow burning in his gaze.
Kicking her legs as fast as she could Wendy ran past the flaming trees, ignoring her body's cries of pain with each jarring movement of her bare feet hitting the earth. "Thank you..." She whispered, tears streaming down her sooty face.
The man watched her go, his heart constricting painfully in his chest. At least he managed to save someone in his lifetime.
"Nikolai! Why'd you let her go?" A man's voice shouted in aggravation. Nikolai turned to the voice.
"It was something that had to be done." He murmured, gazing steadily at the large man before him.
"Well then, I guess this is also something that has to be done." The man grunted, swinging his fist at Nikolai. Dodging the blow Nikolai fought bravely, despite knowing this was a battle he couldn't win.
Minutes of painful fighting went by until Nikolai finally fell backwards, a large gash across his chest making it hard to breath.
"You shouldn't have let her go." The man above him spat, stalking back to Raven Tail. Nikolai nodded slowly, ignoring the shock waves of pain that rippled throughout his body at the motion.
"You're right, I shouldn't have let her go... I'm glad I did though." He whispered laboriously as his eyes slid shut. His chest heaved mightily for a minute but then his body gave a jarring shudder and all movement stopped as his heart finally gave out. Forgive me, Camilla...
A/N: I know, I'm a heartless jerk... but in all fairness when writing this I had just learned that my uncle who's struggling with cancer won't make it. I guess my mood rubbed off on my story writing abilities but I hope it didn't ruin it... and on that note, did you love it? Hate it? Have no opinion either way? You should still review! Stay tuned for next week my lovely readers! Until then, ~Kitty-San!