Secrets, part 4
The next day, things seemed a little better. Everyone had finally gotten some rest for a change. Though still haggard, at least they could keep their eyes open now. Jasper spent some time at the barrier explaining things to his guild mates. Yona and the twins made rounds while Blythe stayed firmly at Kavi's side. Puck spent his time in equal shares between his beloved wife and adopted sons. Veda was on the mend, but something was still off. With Yona's help, Puck had managed to pass the rogue egg from her body. Normally, such a thing would be disposed of, but this one was different. It had an aura of magic to it.
"I still don't understand why you drank that odd liquid without letting me test it first. It could have been anything", sighed Puck. Veda grinned sheepishly. "But they went through so much trouble to get it for me", she muttered, fiddling with her nails. Her husband shook his head with a slight grin. She was hopeless. He'd long known of her past when she drank Gita's blood. It was a feeble attempt to lengthen her life so she wouldn't leave him lonely again so soon; All her idea, of course. When they married, several facts were presented that simply had to be accepted. First, Puck would likely outlive Veda by their natural lifespans. Second, their DNA simply wasn't compatible; They would never have children of their own. Third, Puck's life hung in the balance on a daily basis. If Oberon decided he'd outlived his usefulness, he could easily be replaced. Puck's sheer loyalty to the crown is what had sustained him for more than 700 years.
"Still, it was foolish", he chided. Veda nodded sadly. She knew it was risky, but the side effects seemed to be good things, mostly. She'd gotten ill for a while after imbibing the potion, but once recovered, her draconian features began to lessen. Her horns had flaked away and eventually fallen off and even her hair was trying to turn back to its natural color. Most assumed her silver hue was from age when it was actually from Gita's blood. Her wing, the guild's namesake, however, remained in tact. Her sudden egg trouble could be a natural hiccup, but it could also have something do to with that strange blue liquid, a suspicion that consumed Puck's thoughts as he peered at the egg. Veda, too, had sensed something different about this one. Then, Puck recalled something unusual. When he'd excused himself from Avalon's court, Titania had whispered something in passing, "A gift awaits you." Could this unusual ovum be it?
Veda stroked its shell in thought. "It almost feels alive", she sighed sadly, knowing that could never be. With a deep breath, Puck cradled her head to his chest in sympathy. She was right, though. Not only did the egg smell of magic, it held a very faint aura. As he inhaled and closed his eyes, a vision of his queen's smile crept into his mind. Was she trying to tell him something? He felt silly having such thoughts. There was no sense in getting Veda's hopes up, so he said nothing. After all, it was impossible, wasn't it?
-
Elsewhere in the sanctum, Jasper sat down with a heavy sigh. Despite Yona's assurances, he could see her struggling to keep up the act. When the two had awoken that morning, she had a low fever. She swore it was nothing, just from the lack of sleep, but his heart sank every time he thought of the alternative. Was the virus already in her blood? He could feel his father keeping a close eye on the dragon slayer, as well, but neither spoke of it near the exceeds. Rani was already so worried over Kavi, she was barely able to contain herself. Jasper had an inkling that Ronen could see it, too. The feline acted strong and kept his feelings mostly to himself, but his eyes showed worry for his lifelong friend.
Yona had stretched out in Jasper's bed after being stared down about it. She finally gave in to his fussing and took a nap, just to shut him up, really, but maybe he was right. She didn't feel well and as hard as she tried to hide it, even she was getting a little worried. Would she get as weak as Kavi? She hated that thought. There was no way something as insignificant as a germ would knock her down. Jasper was trying to mind his own business, but she could feel him watching her. She rolled over to face the far side of the room. At least then, she could grimace in pain without worrying him. Her stomach felt like it was turning inside out and her head was throbbing. Puck had sealed her magic, though, so that should keep her safe, right?
"Stop trying to hide it. Just admit you're sick." Her eyes widened at those words. "Damn!", she thought. Even without his magic, Jasper's natural gift for sensing fears and weakness was as strong as ever. Hoping he'd believe she was asleep, she said nothing in response. He let it drop, knowing full well she was pretending, but he didn't want to think too deeply of the possibilities ahead. "Please, don't take them", was all he could he think, praying an answer would show itself soon. It felt like he'd only just gotten home, gotten his life back...Gotten himself back... Now this. He was confident his mother would recover without incident, but his brother? He felt a pit in his stomach just thinking about it. Even his father had warned him just how sick Kavi was. What would happen if he actually died this time? "No! Stop thinking like that!", his mind screamed...But then again, there was a chance it could happen. What then? What would happen to everyone?
His eyes and thoughts turned back to Yona. He prayed she would fare better than Kavi against this virulent agent. They were both strong, but Kavi's health had always been questionable. Yona, however, seemed healthy as a horse. Was she really that much better off or was it all an illusion crafted to preserve her image? "You're staring again", she sighed. Jasper blushed to himself and mumbled, "Sorry." Shying his gaze, he sighed. He was consumed with worry. Even worse, no one knew where the virus had come from. At first, he thought maybe it was something implanted in him as a host by the witches, making it all his fault. Then, reports started filtering in from across Fiore. Serpent Wing was not alone in their woes. The news didn't make him feel any better. At least if it was him, the incident would be contained, he thought.
Yona rolled over once more and looked at him with sorrowful eyes. He was a nervous wreck and there nothing she could do to help. Everyone seemed powerless against this ailment. She wondered about the other guilds. Had it reached Fairy Tail? "Making yourself sick from worry isn't helping anyone", she stated. Jasper nodded sullenly. He knew that, but he couldn't pull himself out of the darkness. Trying to move the focus off himself, he said, "Aren't you supposed to be resting?". Yona smirked at the question, another of his diversion tactics. "Sorry, but the overwhelming pity parade is kind of suffocating", she stated. Her callous sense of humor only made things worse. He stared at the floor in complete misery. It seemed he was making things even harder on everyone again. "Come here", she sighed, her hand outstretched. He obeyed in silence. Sitting beside her, he stared into nothing, afraid he'd only say something else depressing. A tiny smile crept over his lips as he felt her arms wrap snugly around him. She leaned into his shoulder in silent apology. She didn't mean to make him feel worse.
For a brief moment, it felt things were going to be okay. Then, it happened. Jasper sat in horror at the blood now splattered across his shoulder. Yona covered her mouth, trying to contain her coughing. He turned in panic, unsure how to help. Gently tucking her hair behind her ears, he offered her something to wipe her mouth on. "I knew you were sick", he said, still taking in what was happening. The spasm passed and she shyly said, "I'll be fine...Might as well go tell your dad. I'm not going anywhere." He stared with deep worry. "Go on", she said, annoyed at her own weakness. He kissed her forehead gently before leaving the room.
-
Back in Veda's room, a knock at the door pulled her and Puck from their hushed conversation. "Come in", she called. Jasper slowly entered the room. He was glad to see Veda recovering, but the gloom in his face spoke volumes. "What's wrong?", fretted his mother, beckoning him closer. "It's Yona, isn't it? How far has is progressed?", asked Puck, keenly. Jasper told them of his observations and what had just happened. Eventually, Puck left to check her over. Veda assured her son everything would be all right. She felt awful for being unable to support him earlier. When the elf returned, his expression was serious, but calm. "I sealed her magic just in time", he stated. A collective sigh of relief was let loose. "It shouldn't affect her more than a bad cold", assured Puck.
After a brief silence, Jasper asked the inevitable. "Will Kavi be all right?" Veda clutched her son close, unsure of the answer. Jasper knew his father would never lie to him, no matter how dire the news. Finally, the elf said, "With luck." Jasper tensed, trying to keep his emotions in check. "Why is this happening?", he thought aloud. "I wish I knew", replied Puck, placing a warm hand on his shoulder. "I heard nothing of this in Avalon; It seems to be a human malady. The three of us are unlikely to be infected, but the rest of the guild is vulnerable." Veda felt so helpless at the thought of losing the guild once more. "From the reports, it seems the dragon slayers are getting it worse than anyone else", she ventured. Puck nodded in agreement. He'd gone over the documents since he'd returned home. Her observation did bother him, though. He'd picked up on an odd energy since coming back to Earthland, Fiore to be exact. It was familiar, but it couldn't be that person...Could it?
He sighed deeply, troubled by the prospects. "I need to investigate something", he stated, taking up a thick tome. Veda and Jasper exchanged glances, unsure of what had popped into the elf's mind. As he read, Veda hugged her son once more. "Go back to her. I'm all right", she said with a soft grin. He nodded and left his parents alone, completely oblivious to the large egg in the room. "What is it, my love?", inquired Veda, scared by the look in his eye. Puck poured over the book in haste. "This virus, it's surfaced in the past...A long time ago...In time, it was eradicated here. It would seem it's found a way back", he uttered. "How long ago?", she asked with interest. He paused in his reading as he thought. "Before my time", he stated, "It was mentioned in the diaries of my predecessor. He served the crown for nearly a thousand years...It's mentioned, but when it came and how it was cleansed are unclear." She glanced at the tome with suspicion. She knew that book was no ordinary tome, but to think it held records stretching so far back was truly astounding. She'd looked at it many times, but it was written in an ancient script, taught only in Avalon. Puck was forbidden to teach it to anyone in Earthland. "What does it all mean?", she inquired. "Something's on the move, something big. I just pray we find answers before magic dies all together."
-
Later that day, just outside of town, another group of mages made their way toward the guild. As they walked, a few odd glances passed over them. It was strange to see mages from another guild this far from the capital. The streets weren't looking familiar, but then again, they had only been here once before. Lucy looked over their map while Gray asked the locals for directions. Hushed whispers surrounded the fairies. It seemed Serpent Wing was also on lock-down. Eventually, they got the information they needed and headed toward their destination.
Entering the guild, few faces greeted them. Four mages occupied the main hall- two boys and two girls - team 4. Grem and Hantu were arm wrestling in the background while Ahiru and Acheron were discussing a novel. The blonde guy with the glasses stepped forward and greeted them. "Welcome to Serpent Wing. My name is Acheron. What bring you so far from home?", he said, clearly recognizing their marks. "We're here to see some friends", stated Lucy politely. Natsu was already looking for ways to get in trouble when a man with deep red hair shouted, "New kitties!" and charged full-speed toward the fairies. He managed to sweep Happy and Charle into a bear hug without warning. "So fluffy!", he beamed. "Grem, please put them down. They can't breathe", sighed a girl in black, adjusting her glasses. He pouted, but let them go only to content himself by hugging her instead. "Forgive him. He's very affectionate", she said, blushing. Charle adjusted her clothing with a 'hmph'.
Glancing around the building, Gray asked, "Where is everyone?". "Around the guild. We've been instructed to maintain a quarantine, but I suppose it's pointless if we leave the doors unlocked", sighed Acheron. "Cheer up, Achie! Look at it as new friends", grinned Grem, finally releasing Ahiru. Acheron introduced the rest of his team. When it was clear who their visitors had come to see, the mood dropped from polite greetings to dark secrets. "What, are they sick?", asked Natsu, his smile fading. Acheron simply said, "Come with me", and lead them out back. Lucy and Wendy jumped at a small explosion emanating from the building as they walked the sandy path behind it. "Don't pay Hantu any heed. You'll only encourage her", said Acheron. Natsu smirked to himself. Sounded like someone he could have fun with. They watched as the mage opened the stone pathway the same as Kavi had before.
Trailing down the dark stairwell, Acheron bid them to stay close. Juvia was more than happy to oblige, practically holding Gray's elbow betwixt her bosom. Everyone was anxious to see their friends again. As they headed ever downward, Acheron explained the situation. "So, Kavi-san has it, too?", said Wendy, saddened by the news. The guild hadn't yet been updated about Yona. Acheron chose his words carefully as he spoke of Kavi's condition. "I'm sure Jasper will answer your questions", he stated. "Who's Jasper?", asked Natsu. "Kavi's brother", replied Acheron calmly. "He has a brother?", uttered Gray. "Yes, though he may not be what you expect. If nothing else, Master Veda or her husband, Puck will explain everything", replied Acheron. "She's married?", spat Lucy, somewhat shocked. "He's seldom here, but you're in luck right now. Listen", he replied.
The sound of a zanfir drifted over them, getting louder as they approached. "How lovely", said Charle, enjoying the flute. Natsu sniffed the air, unsure of what it was he smelled. He could smell team one and Veda, but there were other scents, inhuman scents. "Juvia didn't think there were any other naga left", said the water mage. "You'll see", grinned Acheron. They group stepped off the stairs and headed for the light ahead. As their eyes adjusted, a pointy earred man with light blue hair and an eye patch could be seen sitting on a large stone. Veda sunned herself nearby. "Company", she grinned, adjusting herself to a sitting position.
The group stopped just short of the barrier. The fairies glanced at the shimmering air before them. "Stay on this side until told otherwise", said Acheron, turning passed them to return to the surface. "Friendly", teased Natsu. Puck leapt down gracefully and approached the barrier. "An elf?", uttered Lucy in shock. Puck grinned faintly. Adjusting his appearance to human ears, he smiled kindly. "Is this better?", he ventured. "A shape shifter!", cried Happy in awe. Puck looked the group over. "Fairy Tail. You must be here for my son and the others", he ventured. "What, you're Kavi's dad?", inquired Natsu skeptically. "In a way...But I'm afraid you've come at a bad time. Both Kavi and Yona are sick", he replied. Nervous glances passed around. "Yona's got it, too?", ventured Gray. "She only just came down with it", stated Puck.
Veda slithered up beside him and offered a kind smile. "I'm sorry, but you'll have to stay with the main guild until they're better. We don't want to risk spreading the infection." Lucy sighed, disappointed, but understanding. Before she could speak, she dropped her jaw at the sight of Natsu and Happy on the wrong side of the barrier, blissfully looking around the sanctum. "Oh dear", sighed Veda. Slightly annoyed, Puck strode to them and quickly sealed their magic. Seeing their comrades faint at his touch unnerved the rest of the fairies. "What did you do?!", demanded Gray, unsure of this shape shifting stranger. Veda quickly explained everything, diffusing the situation.
"I see. So he's stuck on that side now", sighed Lucy. Why was he always such an idiot?! Getting to his feet, Natsu was pissed. "Why'd the hell you do that?!", he shouted, annoyed he wasn't yelling with flame. "For your own good. The virus feeds on magic and as a dragon slayer, you are particularly susceptible", stated Puck coolly. "I supposed the rest of you might as well come in then", said Veda. Gray and Juvia opted to stay on the safe side in case news needed to be taken home, while the others stepped through the barrier one at a time and had their power sealed. Natsu made fun of the key now decorating Lucy's forehead. She blushed and told him to shut up. Gray simply smirked and said, "I always knew you were a flame brain." It was only then that the dragon slayer realized he had a symbol, too.
A shadow approached from the deeper parts of the sanctum. Stepping into the daylight, Jasper sent his parents a curious look. "What's with all of the commotion?", he asked. Then he realized a group of strangers were in his home and staring at his unusual looks. Blushing brightly, he bowed and apologized for his rudeness. Relaxing, Puck returned his ears to normal and introduced his son. "These are members of Fairy Tail, friends come to see our patients. This is my son, Jasper." Happy stared with wide eyes. "What are you?", he asked in wonder. "Happy!", chided Lucy, scooping him up and apologizing profusely. "It's all right", said Jasper with red cheeks. "He's an incubus", stated Veda, taking his hand warmly. Natsu grinned wide. Why was this family so cool?
"Please forgive me. I was...away..when you last visited", said Jasper politely. "As was I", added Puck, "But I suppose you're more interested in Kavi and Yona. Yona can take visitors, but I'm afraid Kavi's very weak right now." The tension in the air rose as the worry became evident. "I'll let her know you're here", said Jasper, excusing himself. "Is he really that sick?", asked Lucy, concerned. "Very", said Puck grimly. "Maybe I can help", offered Wendy. Puck kneeled to eye level and smiled gently. "The sky dragon. I can sense Grandine in you", he said. Wendy nodded with a surprised smile. "How'd you know?", smirked Natsu. "I have my ways", replied Puck. His expression shifted as he took a closer look at the boy. Natsu stared back blankly, wondering what the deal was. "Forgive me. You have Igneel's presence", said Puck, pushing the conversation forward. Veda could tell her was hiding something, but let it go. She didn't want to question him in front of their guests.
Turning his attention to Lucy, Puck eyed her keys. "You have something unusual in your arsenal", he observed. She quickly pulled the book from her pack and said, "Valentine. Yona said she'd help us." He didn't have to touch the book to sense the death that clinged to it. "The eclipse", uttered Veda as if she just recalled something important. Puck sent her a questioning glance, but moved passed the subject. "I'm not sure she'll be well enough to assist you", he stated. "Don't be silly. They can conduct the ceremony here in the sanctum!", offered Veda, "You'll be able to see the eclipse from here." Lucy glanced up at the huge crevice in the ceiling. That made sense enough.
After some minor conversation, the group followed Puck to Jasper's room. "Yona's inside. The twins are with Blythe and Kavi. I'll inform them of your arrival", he said before making his exit. Jasper opened the door shyly. "Welcome to my room", he said, grinning sheepishly. Realizing his fangs were showing, he quickly retreated to make room in the doorway. Yona looked a little ragged, but sat up with a smile anyway. "Hey, guys! Long time no see!" She hugged them each in turn. "Where's Popsicle?", she teased. "Outside the barrier", replied Lucy. Wendy seemed a little confused, but assumed it was Gray in reference to ice. "Juvia's out there, too", added Happy. Natsu looked the room over with interest. It didn't seem Yona's style. "I didn't know you had a room down here", he grinned. "I don't. It's Jasper's. He's only sharing 'cause he's my Boo", she beamed. The incubus blushed deeply at the title. "You?...And you?", ventured Lucy. Smiling warmly, she added, "That's wonderful!". Finally, Natsu was off Yona's menu.
The humor was interrupted by another coughing spasm. Yona glared at the red droplets in her palm and muttered, "Damn it." Noting the worried looks around her, she said, "Don't worry, old man Puck said I'll be fine." Natsu smirked at the assigned title. "Old man?", asked Wendy. "He can't be that old", said Charle. He did look fairly young all things considered. "M-my dad's older than you think", stuttered Jasper. "How old is he?", inquired Natsu. Jasper fought his instinct to shrink from view as all eyes settled over him. "Chill out. It's your room", teased Yona. A faint grin crept over his face as he sat beside her. "726." Everyone gawked in surprise. "Seven hundred?!", gasped Lucy. "Looks pretty sprightly for his age", grinned Natsu. "How is that even possible?!", asked Happy, still reeling. "He's an elf. You saw the pointy ears, didn't you?", replied Yona. Unexpectedly grabbing Jasper's arm, she playfully said, "I love some pointy ears." Again, he turned red and everyone tried not to laugh. At least Yona was still in good spirits despite the virus. That left hope for the others, right?
-
To be continued...