Disclaimer: I do not own Fairy Tail.
AN: Hope you guys like the new chapter! I'm still alive! Unfortunately, I was very busy and still am busy. Doing grad school, work, and internship takes up a lot of your time and social life (not that I had one in the first place XD). But I am still writing and enjoy writing my favorite OTP as a great stress reliever. I don't have scheduled updates but I will not leave any of my stories unfinished. Actually, I am currently writing this at my internship ;). It's been a while so things might be all over the place. Thanks for the love and support guys and enjoy!
"Do you have it?" A woman wearing a black cloak that covered her face asked the man in front of her as they met in a dark alleyway. He had a bloodied apron wrapped around his waist, his beard filled with chunks of meat. A physical representation of his job as a butcher.
The scruffy butcher nodded and gestured to his men to bring a white container, putting it in the back of the carriage. "It was an odd request, but doable. What are you going to use it for?" He thought the order was strange, but decided to take the commission after looking at how much he was going to get paid.
"Silence! I'm not paying you to ask questions," yelled the cloaked woman, throwing the bag of jewels on the ground. "But if you must know. It is part of a new beauty regimen. Makes the skin more youthful."
"Ah. Okay," nodded the butcher. Nobles sure are weird, he thought as he watched the carriage drive away. At first she didn't want to reply to his question, but then changed her mind.
The carriage reached the Heartfilia mansion. The lady with the black cloak stepped out of the carriage and entered the home. She flung the cloak to the side and let out a big sigh, throwing herself onto the couch. She slouched, forgoing all of her training as a perfect lady. After all, she'd no doubt her companions would care. "I don't think I can show my face to that shop again," whined Lucy. "Beauty regimen! What was I thinking?!" She buried her face in her hands in disbelief. It was the first thing that popped into her head. She didn't want the butcher to think she was any more weird than she already was.
"I'm guessing you managed to get the lamb's blood," stated Bickslow, plopping down next to Lucy, his babies comforting her. One of the requirements for the spell Ella came up with for the destruction of the Djinns required the blood of lambs.
"Yeah," nodded Lucy, removing her hands from her face. "We're going to have lamb for dinner tonight. It didn't feel right, draining the blood from the animal and leaving the meat like that." With Laxus living in the mansion for the time being, Lucy wouldn't have to worry about leftovers.
"As long as Bossman doesn't finish it all, I couldn't care less about what we have for dinner," chirped Bickslow. Despite being Laxus's friend for years, he still could not get used to his huge appetite. At least he had basic table manners unlike Natsu and Gajeel.
"Where did Laxus go?" After Lucy handed the letter Ella left in her journal to Laxus, he set off somewhere. She finally managed to read what was in Ella's journal. When she solved the Rune riddle, a message was left on how to combat the Djinns in a fight. Specifically Zeruiah.
To my descendant,
If you have found this, it means either the ceremony has failed or someone is trying to bring Abishai back. Unfortunately, there is only one person who wants to see the world on fire, and that is Zeruiah. The fault lies in me for not sealing her properly and I bear that toll with my body. The fits are getting worse by the day, but I had no other choice as there was no other way of having another high-level magic ceremony in such a short time frame. Magic has a price and in some way you have to pay the price. For me, it was my life. Knowing that my time on this earth was getting shorter, I've prepared countermeasures against this new attack. Hopefully, this will be more effective and a permanent solution. Time was not on our side the first round, so I pray that you've had more luck this time around. I've done all the research I can and I'm confident it should work. A blade of celestial steel, forged in dragon's fire, dipped in the blood of a lamb. When using the blade, you have one shot. Use it wisely.
Best of luck.
Ella.
Lucy's heart dropped at one of the requirements for the blade. Celestial Steel can be obtained from the Celestial Spirit World and lamb blood was also easy to find. But to forge it in the dragon's fire. Dragons did not exist at this time period. How were they going to do this?! "I know Laxus said not to worry, but I still can't help but worry." Laxus took the Celestial Steel provided by Loke and teleported away. Lucy should focus on obtaining the lamb's blood and be ready when once Freed tests the antidote on his sister.
"He's probably gone to the only two people who can help forge the blade." Bickslow placed his hands behind his hand and leaned against the couch as he put his legs on the coffee table. The only dragon 'fire' in existence right now would be Natsu Dragneel, the fire dragon slayer. Black Steel Gajeel is also the only blacksmith they know who can help forge the blade with his knowledge and expertise on metal. This is the best solution they have at the moment.
At Fairy Tail
"You think this is going to work?" Loke asked Laxus as they both stood in front of the entrance to Fairy Tail. He was there to accompany Laxus to provide the Celestial Steel for Natsu and Gajeel, making sure it did not fall into the wrong hands and to inform Master Makarov about the situation. The King allowed a few ingots of Celestial Steel to be used for the Human Realm in order to make a weapon to defeat Zeruiah. The situation must be dire if the Spirit King permitted the use of such a dangerous element. Celestial Steel was very powerful because of the holy power embedded in it, capable of purifying the darkest of elements. However, it can also be dangerous in the wrong hands, capable of causing destruction.
"What choice do we have," replied Laxus as he stared at the guild with a rigid jaw. It's been days since he last came to the guild. He might have to warn his grandfather about the upcoming danger if their plan goes awry. Backup might be required against an army of Djinns. Fairy Tail was capable of holding their own against them, constantly overcoming adversity. "I can't think of anyone else who can handle the material."
"Celestial steel disintegrates after being used. It can't hold its form any longer in the human world because it can't stabilize itself. It was created as fail-safe to prevent humans from getting their hands on it," explained Loke. It's better if Loke told Laxus about this now rather than later. Gajeel really needed to do an outstanding job on the craft to ensure the weapon was stable enough to use.
"So we really only have one shot to go for the kill," murmured Laxus grimly, a dark look on his face. "We would have to make it count." The Spirit King only gave them a limited amount to play with.
Taking a deep breath as if to give himself courage, Laxus walked into the guild, nodding his head towards the members who greeted him with Loke following behind. He wasn't surprised at some of the odd looks directed his way. The sight of him with Loke wasn't common around the guild, especially since his team wasn't with him. Laxus ignored the weird looks and nodded his head or grunted a hello to those who greeted him.
"Gramps! Where's Natsu and Gajeel," demanded Laxus barging into his grandfather's office without a care in the world. Usually, he would be more respectful. However, time was not on their side. He hoped and prayed asking for assistance from Natsu and Gajeel will help. No, it has to work. They have no other way of getting dragon's flame and Gajeel is the best blacksmith he knows. If anyone can help forge the sword, it's those two. There's just the matter of getting the both of them to work together without setting the world on fire.
If Laxus had to threaten them or beat them up into working with each other, he would do so. The lives of innocent people are at stake here. There's no time for pettiness.
Although Laxus should be the last person to talk about pettiness, considering how he himself can get petty. Well, more of a mixture of pettiness and shyness towards Lucy.
Once Laxus was able to process the events that happened at Baron Bertram's mansion, especially in some heated moments, he felt like a bashful teenager. He could not believe he lost control like that and kissed Lucy! Twice!
And when Lahar showed up with that stupid smile and love-struck eyes towards Lucy; who he was not sure was oblivious to or ignoring Lahar's looks, Laxus felt his gut twist in pain at their proximity.
Laxus could not deny it anymore.
He liked Lucy.
A lot.
And Laxus wasn't sure what to do with those feelings. So he did the only thing he was able to do at that moment. Avoid her.
Laxus was avoiding Lucy and yet didn't want any man near her. He let out an unconscious growl as he recalled Kai laughing at him when he almost broke the handrail at the sight of Lucy laughing at something one of the male servants told her.
Real men don't hide their feelings. They talk it out, Laxus thought mockingly. He felt like Elfman with the man mantra. Unfortunately, Laxus grew up with the concept of toxic masculinity; feelings had to be hidden and look where it got him. Constant turmoil and chaos in his life and personal feelings. No wonder he was a jerk and ended up exploding with anger.
And there was the matter that Laxus would not be able to see Lucy once the mission was over. They were from different backgrounds, different worlds. It would be hard to keep in contact with their busy schedules and Laxus would not want to hold Lucy back from fulfilling her dream of traveling the world, writing her novel.
"Laxus, my boy!" The Master hopped down from his desk with a smile to greet his grandson. His smile started to fade when he saw the serious looks on Laxus and Loke's face. "Is everything alright?" He knew his grandson was out on a mission with his team but for some reason came back with Loke, who he had not seen in a while.
"Master, we need to talk. It's very urgent." Loke proceeded to explain everything that has happened so far to the Master with Laxus adding things here and there except his moments with Lucy.
"Are Natsu and Gajeel here?" Laxus prayed that the both of them were here in Magnolia and not on a mission far away. They didn't have time to track down the dragon slayers because time was needed for the crafting of the weapon.
"Gajeel is already in the guild. Natsu should be coming in right down." Master Makarov took a seat in his chair to process everything Loke and Laxus had told him. "They can work on the weapon here in the guild basement and I will oversee everything to make sure they are getting along and it is complete." The situation was more serious than he thought. He encountered a few Djinns in his younger days. The result was not pretty.
"Thank you, Gramps." Laxus was glad to have his grandfather's support. They were still trying to mend their relationship. "I'll let you guys know if things change or if we need the guild's help. Stay alert and stay safe." Laxus gave a small wave and left the room to find the dragon slayers. The minute he walked down the steps, Natsu stepped into the guild with Happy.
"Oi Laxus! Fight me," demanded Natsu, fire pouring out of his mouth as he changed into a fighting stance at the sight of Laxus. "I wasn't prepared last time, and you caught me off guard! I still want that rematch since the Sakura festival. If I win, you have to do what I want!" Natsu started to imagine the different silly requests he was going to give Laxus, causing him to cackle loudly.
"Fine," Laxus grinned darkly, sparks appearing all over body. "I'll give you that rematch! Bring metal head with you." He gestured towards the training hall outside. Laxus was pent up with stress and anger from this mission. What a good way to release it and a great opportunity to make Natsu and Gajeel collaborate.
"Wha-?" Gajeel sputtered out, almost choking on his beer. "I didn't agree to this!" Gajeel couldn't believe that Natsu was trying to involve him in another fight with Laxus. This has nothing to do with him.
"Don't tell me you're scared," jeered someone from the guild.
"I mean, he did run away last time," yelled another. "He probably is."
"I'm not scared," yelled Gajeel with red cheeks. "I-I just ate, okay. Let my food settle down a bit in my stomach first and then we can talk." To this day, people were reminding him of his cowardice. Sure, he was able to beat Laxus during the Battle of Fairy Tail with the help of Natsu, but even he knew that was pure luck. When Natsu challenged Laxus again and got owned, he knew for a fact he did not stand a chance and it was better to preserve his dignity than suffer a humiliating loss.
"Enough!" The Master's voice boomed throughout the guild causing the chaos to calm down and everyone to be silent. He had a feeling he would have had to intervene, considering the guild's troublemakers were involved. "Natsu and Gajeel, there will be no fighting with Laxus." A collective disappointed awww echoed throughout the room, but the guild was silenced again by Makarov, who raised his hand. "Since all 3 of you are here, this is the perfect opportunity to address THAT. All of you in my office now!"
Laxus made the boring trek back to his grandfather's office, occasionally glaring at Natsu and Gajeel, who were behaving like children on the stairs, jabbing and pinching each other. He stood in the far corner away from the squabbling children to prevent himself from getting into the crossfire. Was this really going to work? Were they able to work together in a small space?
"Enough!" The Master repeated once more, causing the two to separate from one another with glares on their face, causing Laxus to roll his eyes again.
"Gramps, look at them! Acting like freaking children! We'd be lucky if they were able to craft a chopstick." Laxus let out a long sigh and dug into his pocket, pulling out a block of Celestial Steel. His first step was to entice Gajeel with the material. Natsu was a different story and even easier to entice. The promise of a battle with a dangerous and strong opponent always does it for Natsu.
"What's that in your hand?" Gajeel sniffed the air and noticed the shining material in Laxus's hand. He's never seen a metal like that before in his life and it smelled amazing. Metals have different scents and tastes. Gajeel knew almost every metal in existence and tried each one, so of course he was curious to learn of this new material. His eyes gleamed in interest as he tried to get closer to the object, his mouth salivating at the potential taste. It smelled so pure, so heavenly. Nothing he has encountered before.
"Your next job," grumbled Laxus, tossing the block to an enthusiastic Gajeel, who did not hesitate to bite into it. He made a disgusted face at the love-struck look on Gajeel's face, who demolished the block in seconds. "There's more where that came from, however, those are not for eating." Laxus ignored the sad aw from Gajeel, who was disappointed he couldn't eat anymore. "If I am satisfied with the final product, the supplier is willing to get you another block as final payment."
"What do you want me to make?" Gajeel assumed Laxus was asking him to use his smithery skills and craft either a weapon or jewelry. It wasn't the first time someone from the guild, or even outside the guild, called upon his expertise. And he was damn good at his job, too.
"What I need is the BOTH of you to make a sword. You have free rein on the design, of course." Laxus emphasized the word both, looking back and forth between the two slayers. He handed Gajeel a list of instructions. "Gramps can fill you in on the rest of the situation and monitor your work. I need this done as soon as possible. Can you do it?"
Gajeel took the list from Laxus and gulped nervously at the serious tone in his voice. This must be serious, considering Laxus rarely asked for his help in anything. The biggest giveaway was the fact Laxus wanted him and Natsu to work together. "I don't mind doing it but why does Firebreath have to be here? I'm perfectly capable of doing this on my own." Natsu would just get in his way and constantly goad him into a fight. "All I need is a day, and a workshop set up for me." He could just use the workshop in the guild, since he was the only one who actually uses it.
"I don't doubt your skills, Gajeel. Unfortunately, this sword has to be made under special circumstances." Laxus pointed to a specific line on the paper he gave to Gajeel. "And Natsu is the closest thing to a dragon's flame that we have."
"So you're not even sure if this works?"
"There's no other way to test the theory," Laxus answered Gajeel in a grim voice. "All of this is based on a hunch." Ella never had the chance to test this out because she passed away at a young age.
"What's this sword for anyway," Natsu chimed in from his seat on the couch. He decided to make himself comfortable in the Master's room.
"To defeat the queen of the Djinn's," answered Laxus vaguely. He really did not have time to go into all the details. He provided the rest of the Celestial Steel to the Master. "I think this should be enough."
"I don't need a sword to defeat the Queen of the Djinn," barked Natsu, lighting his fists on fire. "One punch from me is all that's needed. Leave metal head out of this."
"If only it was that simple," murmured Laxus under his breath, but the slayers were still able to hear it. "I'm going now. For real this time. See you tomorrow." Laxus went downstairs to meet with Loke and teleported back to the Heartfilia mansion.
"Come on, boys!" The Master clamped his hands on Natsu's and Gajeel's shoulders. "You heard him. Let's get to work." He guided them downstairs to the guild workshop. This was going to be a long night.
With Freed and Evergreen at the Justine Mansion
"For once, my parents did something smart. Using the magical runes as a security measure," declared Freed, as observed the rune walls in front of them in the back garden. It was near Libera's room and vacant of guards, making it easier to sneak in. He and Evergreen decided to visit his sister to check on her. See her condition and see if the antidote works. Freed found it humorous that his family was still using the runes he put in place to prevent intruders from coming in.
They frowned upon the use of magic and yet utilized my skills to their benefit. Freed snorted at that thought as he took out the Rune pen to allow entrance for him and Evergreen. He was glad he was able to leave them and, depending on the results of this mission, he might take his sister with him this time. He was more stable now and had a good support system for friends. His new family. With Libera living with him, she was free to do what she wanted.
Evergreen and Freed scoped the area out to make sure there weren't any guards and walked through the security runes. They used their magic to create wings and flew up to Libera's balcony. Evergreen picked the lock, and they entered her room. She closed the balcony door while Freed walked in, admiring the room. It's been so long since he's been here. He laid his eyes on his sister, lying unconscious on her bed.
"Oh Libera. What have they done? You look so frail and skinny," whispered Freed softly. He sat on the edge of his sister's bed, brushing her green hair to the side. It's been years since he last saw his sister in person and they had to meet like this. "I should have taken you with me. It wouldn't have been much, but anything is better than this place. You at least would have freedom and not be forced into a marriage with a prick." His sweet and innocent little sister. If only the rules of society were female friendly, there wouldn't be so much abuse and exploitation of the said gender. Also, the opportunity to expand their scopes and horizon. Why must a lady only have to be an accessory to her husband and a breeding machine for the perfect heir?
Evergreen stood by the window they came in, giving Freed his privacy. This wasn't actually the best moment for a reunion. Who knows what's going on in Libera's mind and the more they waste time, the more likely Libera was closer to death. "Freed, it's time." She walked over to place a comforting hand on Freed's shoulder.
"Yes. Of course," nodded Freed. Evergreen's touch broke him out of his stupor. He couldn't help but recall his childhood. He and his sister reading in the library, playing in the garden, and her fascination with his magic. The only person in his family who accepted him.
Freed opened the satchel on his shoulder and took out the vial of the antidote Jasmine made for them. She made 2 so far. One for his sister and one for Lucy's father. They were going to test it on Libera first, based on the order of the killings. Libera came before Jude, so she had less time.
Freed let out a sigh and silently prayed as he pulled the work from the vial. Evergreen helped him put Libera into a more comfortable position and placed the vial between her lips. He slowly administered the antidote, making sure every drop went into Libera's mouth.
Once the vial was empty, Freed put Libera back on the bed and the vial back into his satchel. Now they wait. If it worked, it should take a few seconds for the antidote.
Freed held his sister's hand, squeezing it gently as a sign of encouragement and support. He felt a little twitch coming from her fingers.
Freed willed himself to stay calm when he saw his sister slowly flutter her eyes open. As if trying to get used to the light in the room, she let out a groan and blinked a few more times. She blinked again in disbelief, unable to believe the sight in front of her. "B-brother," she whispered in a hoarse voice. "I-is that you? Are you real?" One second she was in a dream, being married to her fiance and hardships she went through as his wife. The whole time, she prayed to see her brother again. Is she in heaven? Did her wish come true?
"Yes. Libera. It's me." Freed choked back sobs as he helped his sister into a sitting position, handing her the water from her bedside. "I'm real. You're no longer in a nightmare."
"W-what happened?" Libera let herself be hugged by her brother. It's been years since she last saw him. Her mind was still in a fog and still couldn't comprehend that her beloved brother was in front of her.
"You remember Lucy Heartfillia, sis?" Freed got a nod in response. "She told me of your ailment. Of course, I had to help." He still couldn't believe his parents didn't do anything to help their youngest daughter. "My friends came as well once we heard of multiple cases."
"The best way to describe your condition is that you were drugged. Drugged into an endless dream until you were no longer of use," replied Evergreen. "You're probably going to feel groggy and faint. It's been a few weeks." Evergreen was contemplating if Libera should stay here since Freed's runes were going to protect her from the dangers outside. However, who was going to protect her from the things inside? "Maybe it's better if your sister recuperates somewhere else," Evergreen suggested to Freed. "Some place safer."
Freed thought about Evergreen's suggestion and gave a slight nod. It was dangerous for Libera to be here. The Djinns might come after her or their parents were going to proceed with the wedding. Either way, she was open to danger. He bought a teleportation orb with him, just in case, even though they aren't cheap. "Libera, are you well enough to travel?" Teleporting can take a physical toll on one's body, especially if they were not used to it. He nearly vomited his guts out the first time he used a teleportation orb.
"I'll manage," said Libera softly, removing her blanket to stand. Her legs shook a little but was able to stabilize once she found balance. "I don't want to stay here any longer." This was her chance at a new life. She didn't want to resign from the fate her parents wanted for her. She wanted to do more with her life. "Where are we going?" Anywhere her brother took her was better than this place. A gilded cage.
Freed smiled in response. "Home." He was going to take her to the safest place he knew: Magnolia.
Back at the Heartfilia Mansion
"That's great news, Freed! I'm so happy for you," chirped Lucy excitedly, the biggest grin on her face. The potion worked, giving them the advantage. "Yes, of course. I will tell the others the great news as well, including Jasmine. She'll be busy making more and we need to archive this recipe into the books. Khalid and his grandfather will be happy as well once I inform them. I suggest telling your guild healer as well. The more help we can get, the better. Take your time getting back." Lucy used her magic to cut off the communication orb, barely holding the urge to scream.
"I take it that things went well," said Laxus in an amused tone. Seeing Lucy smiling and dancing in her seat was a cute sight. He and Loke returned to the mansion and reported to Lucy what happened. Now they are just waiting for everyone to get back so they can discuss the next steps. There were only two gems left to collect; sloth and rage. Rage/wrath might be easier to spot despite how dangerous the emotion is, however sloth was a tough one.
"Yep," nodded Lucy in response, grabbing a paper from her desk drawer and dipping her quill into her ink. She needed to pen a letter to Khalid and Porlyusica; Fairy Tail's guild herbalist/healer. For Jasmine, she will talk to in person in order to make sure she has enough supplies to create more antidotes. "Once I send these out, I'm going to visit Jasmine and make sure she has everything that she needs. So far Freed has not reported major side effects of the potion and that his sister is just tired." She finished writing the letter, rolling it up and tying a ribbon on it. She whispered a chant and blew on the letters, causing it to disappear and leaving a cloud of sparkles. "I might run late on my way back but if you guys want to start pinpointing the location of the last two gems, be my guest."
"Say hi to the kids for me while you are there," called out Laxus from his spot from the couch. A few of the kids that they rescued that showed interest in herbs and gardening were sent out to live with Jasmine, who happily accepted the other. It inspired her to open a botany school and Lucy, liking the idea, was planning on investing into the whole project. Room and board would be provided since Jasmine had property and the space to house a couple of kids. The town agreed with the idea as well since their reputation took a blow after the Violet scandal and needed to do massive improvement for their image. "And try not to take too long. I know you're strong and all but there's still danger outside. Try not to get too invested into a conversation with Jasmine where you lose track of time. Once this whole thing is over, we can have a proper visit with everyone." Laxus knows that Lucy is able to hold her own, however, he can't help but worry for her. He will always worry for her when she isn't in his line of sight. Laxus still felt hesitant about letting Lucy go on her own, however, there was a lot to prepare for so he needed to stay here.
Zeruiah will be mad at the fact they were able to find something to counteract her powers and a potential weapon that will wipe her existence. Although they were awfully quiet the last few days, Laxus was positive that she had another plan brewing and was just waiting for them to make the first move. He wouldn't be surprised if she used any more underhanded tactics. Love can make a person do crazy things.
Lucy rolled her eyes and shook her head in disbelief. "Yes mother. I'll make sure to be back by curfew." She gathered her belongings and put on her coat. "Does midnight sound adequate enough for you?" She batted her eyelashes mockingly.
"Swell, dear," replied Laxus cheekily, dodging the rolled up paper Lucy threw at him. He was going to miss moments like this when the mission was over.
Laxus's smile dropped from his face when Lucy left the room. The mission was coming close to the end. He was really going to miss Lucy once they went back to Magnolia.
Later in the day
"Huh. That's quite strange," murmured Freed, as he brought the crystal closer to his face. It was shifting back and forth between two colors; a light blue and red which were the colors for wrath and sloth. He remembered Khalid's grandfather mentioning that Zeruiah might have two of them in possession already. Worst-case scenario they might have to storm the fort and steal the jewels from her home turf.
"I mean, it landed on one spot." Bickslow pointed to the Phoenix Mountains. "Luck's probably on our side. We're killing two birds with one stone here. If the weapon turns out to be successful, we can just ambush everyone. Nothing can stop us with the antidote on our side." Some may call Bickslow cocky right now but he was in such a good mood. The mission was almost over and there was light at the end of the tunnel. He knew that Freed felt happier and lighter because his sister wasn't in grave danger anymore. She is currently staying at Freed's place until things can settle down.
"Luck's definitely on Laxus's side on the love spectrum," teased Evergreen from her spot on the couch. She continued to file her nails, giving Laxus a knowing look who kept glancing at the door. "He's going to finish this mission with a girlfriend on his arm."
"Awwwwww. You're missing Lucy already." Bickslow joined in on the teasing. "They do say absence makes the heart fonder." At this point if the two of them don't confess, he was going to lose his mind.
"She's not my girlfriend," growled Laxus, a tic forming on his forehead as he glared at Bickslow.
"But she can be," countered Bickslow. "All you gotta do is man up and confess your feelings. Honestly speaking Laxus, Lucy is a nice girl. I think it's time for you to find someone and be happy. What's stopping you from confessing your feelings?" He couldn't understand why Laxus was so stubborn about this.
"This is only a rumor, but I heard the princess is trying to recruit Lucy into the palace," stated Freed as he put the crystal away, marking the map. He carefully observed Laxus and noticed him flinch at his comment. "She's been actively trying to recruit her as an aide for a while now. The princess is desperate to keep Lucy by her side. Once Hisui becomes Queen, she'll need allies and capable workers by her side." Lucy confided to Freed on her mixed feelings about the offer. It was an honor to serve the princess, and it was such a prestigious position. However, because it was the palace, the environment was restricted. At least she is able to work in the comforts of her home without eyes on her. In the palace everyone will watch her and wish for her failure. She's been delaying her answer to the princess for a while now. Despite the princess saying no pressure, Lucy still felt it. Like she was obligated to accept it. That she'd be crazy to say no. "Even going as far as hiring her as a tutor for the future leader of Fiore if the princess has an heir to the throne."
"Isn't that like a big deal? Teaching the future King or Queen of Fiore," asked Bickslow.
"Yeah. Essentially Lucy could mold the future King or Queen to her liking. Of course Lucy would never abuse her power or position but it's still a big deal. The position is very prestigious."
"How do you say no to an offer like that," Evergreen voiced that question out loud.
Yeah. How do you say no to an offer like that? Laxus thought bitterly as his heart sank even further, saying nothing throughout the conversation. The more he learned of Lucy, the more out of reach she seemed to him.
In Willow City
"It's late, Lucy. Why don't you stay the night," offered Jasmine as she walked Lucy towards the outskirts of town. There weren't many carriages running around at this time and it wasn't safe for a woman to be on her own.
"I appreciate the offer but I have to get back. If I don't get back on time, Laxus and the Thunder Legion might send out the royal army just to find me," joked Lucy. A gust of wind came by causing her to shiver and rub her arms for warmth. "I can find my way from here. You should head back and stay with the kids." Jasmine took in 4 of the 15 kids that were part of the trafficking ring. 5 were at Kardia Cathedral, 4 with Jasmine, 3 were sent to relatives and the rest were currently with Lucy; Kai included.
Kai seemed to really like staying at the mansion and would try to mimic the mannerisms of the servants. Lucy felt touched when Kai said he wanted to stay at the mansion and learn how to be a steward. She didn't want Kai to feel obligated to serve her, but he reassured her that it was something he wanted to do and this was the best opportunity an orphan like him can get. Serving a noble lady like her was the greatest honor for him.
Lucy, feeling herself getting emotional, shook her head and took a deep breath to calm herself. She was going to sponsor those kids for the rest of their life. Any academic endeavors they are interested in pursuing, she will pay and support them. Paying it forward goes a long way.
As Lucy was waiting by the sidewalk for the next carriage, when the sound of footsteps brought her out of her musing. She changed her posture into a fighting stance when a cloaked figure ran towards her direction.
"Please! Help me! She's going to kill me," a familiar voice called out, causing Lucy's eyes to widen in shock. The cloaked figure ran up to Lucy, grabbing her arms. The shaking of the person caused the hood to come off.
"Bradford?!" Lucy ripped his hands off her. "What are you doing here?" Why was Bradford doing here in Willow city?
"Please help me! Zeruiah is going to kill me! This is all her fault. I should have never agreed to this in the first place." Lucy was able to piece together the bits and pieces of information coming out of his mouth right as a carriage arrived.
I fucking knew it. I knew that Bradford was somehow involved in this! The pieces of the puzzle started forming together. The museum theft in Era, the voice in the tunnel, the train sabotage, and the sudden wealth in his territory. Bradford was the one who freed Zeruiah and created the contract with her.
The last thing Lucy wanted to do was help Bradford. However, her kind nature couldn't leave a person in need alone. There was also the case that she could obtain more information about Zeruiah through Bradford. As slimy as he was, he wasn't the type to cry wolf during danger. "Come. I'll take you to my home." Lucy barked orders to the coachman and sat inside, across from Bradford.
"Talk," stated Lucy in a cold tone, glaring at Bradford. She wasn't about to let her guard down around Bradford, especially since he wasn't trustworthy. How greedy can a person be just to create a contract with a Djinn without thinking of the moral repercussions?
"I found her urn in an abandoned mine that I invested in." Bradford started to recall his encounter with the Queen of the Djinn. "I swear I didn't know what was in there." He defended himself when Lucy gave him a look. "Thought I could make a pretty penny from it." He took it home and cleaned it up. When he was rubbing the markings with the rag was when the urn glowed and Zeruiah popped out.
To this day, he'll never forget the evil smile displayed on her face when she realized she was free from the urn. It was partly his greed but also his fear that caused him to follow Zeruiah's orders.
"In exchange for bringing wealth and prosperity to my Dukedom, Zeriuah wanted me to steal the vase from Dieserto and bring it to Fiore. Once it was part of the Museum exhibit, I was to take it to the Phoenix mountains. That was all I was supposed to do!" Bradford was getting more hysterical by the minute, muttering curses under his breath.
"But one request turned into another! I couldn't say no! She threatened to tell the King that I was committing treason by being in cahoots with a Djinn." The requests from Zeruiah were getting more and more dangerous. He almost killed people. Very close to it.
"What changed your mind now?"
"She wants a human host! A vessel to put her husband's soul into once it's released from the vase. She tricked me from the very start." Abishai's original body was old and weak. They needed a new vessel. One that was young and fresh to sustain his soul.
"Zeriuah was going to use you to bring her husband back," stated Lucy in realization. It was the perfect host. The nephew of the king.
"Yes." Bradford nodded. He was about to report about his new finding when he overheard Zeruiah's minions talking. It looked like they were getting ready for a ceremony when they mentioned it was almost time to get rid of him and to not damage his body too much because it will be the new vessel for the Master. "Please. You need to hide me," he begged. "I know things between us are rough and I don't deserve forgiveness but I can't let her kill me."
Lucy let out a sigh. Zeruiah is probably going to hunt Bradford down once she realizes he's gone rogue. Fuck. I don't think I have a choice in the matter. "You can stay in the mansion until things settle down." Hiding Bradford should delay the ceremony further.
"Thanks Lucy. You won't regret it."
At the mansion
Laxus was pacing relentlessly back and forth near the entrance, waiting for Lucy to come back. An hour has passed since the time she said she was going to arrive home. Bicks and Ever teased him and said that he was missing his girlfriend, something he adamantly denied. Lucy was not his girlfriend, and he did not have a crush on her. I am just concerned about her, that's all, he thought. Yes, concerned as a fellow… What the hell am I to her? He scowled when he realized he didn't know how to define their relationship. Sure, he's sexually attracted to her, but it didn't mean his feelings went beyond that. Well, they almost kissed, and they actually did kiss, but it was just for show, even if he enjoyed it. Then they comforted each other when the mission got too personal. So what did that make them? Friends? Acquaintances? A magic comrade-in-arms? Yes, that's it. From one mage to another, I just want to see if she gets home safely. Ugh, even I know it sounds pathetic, he thought as he smacked his forehead.
His ears perked up when he heard a sound come from one room upstairs. Curious that it may be Lucy, since everyone else was asleep, he went to go check it out. If he walked a little faster than usual, it didn't mean that he was excited to see her.
Laxus went up the stairs and down the hall. He heard tree branches rattling violently against the window outside of the room Lucy did the mansion's work at. He opened the door and saw the chair she usually sat in facing the open window. The winds were howling, causing the curtains to fly in the air. The room was chilly, causing someone like him to even shiver a bit. From the corner, he could just make out Lucy's arms on the armrest and her blonde hair blowing because of the wind, but her face was hidden from his view.
Laxus felt an angry tic form on his forehead. All that time he wasted worrying about whether she was safe, and it turned out that she was sitting here the whole time. It tempted Laxus to give him a piece of her mind. Laxus slowly moved towards Lucy. He called out, hoping to goad her into another argument, "Seriously, blondie. I didn't think climbing windows was your style. What would the goat say if he saw you act this unladylike?"
Silence. Lucy did not respond. Laxus tried again. "Oh, the silent treatment," he mocked, trying to rile her up. "What are you, 5? Gonna have to try harder than that to get rid of me."
Silence once more. Laxus felt a sick feeling in the pit of his stomach. Something was wrong, really wrong. Lucy was never this quiet. No matter what, she always responded to him.
He dashed to where Lucy was sitting, and his heart stopped at the sight in front of him. Lucy's eyes were closed, and she was slumped back in her chair, unconscious. He tried to shake her awake, hoping that she was only taking a nap and nothing more. "Lucy, wake up!" Panic was on Laxus's face at this point as he tried to shake her awake once more. "Come on! Please wake up," he begged, hoping that the djinn didn't get to her. No response.
He gathered her in his arms princess-style and ran out of the room in order to get help. He banged on Freed's door, almost breaking it. "Freed! Freed open the door! I need your help!"
Freed opened the door and rubbed his eyes. He was about to yell at Laxus when he saw Lucy's unconscious form in Laxus's arms, who looked pained. He quickly woke up, all previous signs of sleep gone as he took charge of this situation. Laxus was clearly not in the right state of mind, so it was his job to be rational.
"Take Lucy to her room and lay her on her bed," he ordered as he quickly got dressed. "I'll wake the others and meet you there." This was serious. How did a Djinn get past the barrier? The mansion should have been the safest spot! Luckily, Freed had an extra bottle of the antidote. They were going to use it on Lucy's father next since it worked on Libera, but desperate times called for desperate measures. Lucy currently needed it more.
Laxus cradled Lucy closer to his chest as if he was afraid she was going to wither away any sec, walking Lucy towards her room. He gently laid Lucy on her bed and put her under the covers, brushing the loose hairs away from her face with his hand. Laxus jerked his hand away when he noticed Lucy start to shiver. He got up from her bed and closed the windows, but Lucy was still shivering.
The Thunder Legion, still in their pajamas, entered Lucy's room with Freed in the front with the antidote. "Why is she shivering, Freed?!" Laxus felt the panic inside him increase, his heart twist in pain at the sight of Lucy shivering uncontrollable. Lucy did not feel cold, and the room was not cold, and yet she was shivering.
"I don't know, Laxus, but I need you to stay calm." This was a new symptom to Freed. None of the other victims displayed uncontrollable shivering. "Ever check her vitals. Bicks, make sure her soul is still intact! Laxus, hold her steady and open her mouth while I administer the antidote," Freed barked orders to everyone as he continued to survey Lucy's condition, opening the bottle. Everyone followed Freed's orders and held their breath in anticipation. It should be quick and Lucy should wake up.
"Why is it not working?!" Laxus yelled when he didn't see a change in Lucy's condition. If anything, her shivering increased. He quickly took action, taking off his coat, wrapping it around Lucy as he cradled her in his lap, rocking back and forth like a child. That seemed to work because her shivering stopped. However, Lucy did not wake up, her breaths slow and steady.
"I don't know. It should have worked. Libera was able to wake up." This didn't make sense to Freed. Jasmine was one of the best herbalists out there, and there was proof of the antidote working. Were they missing something?
"What's that in her hand," asked Bickslow, pointing to Lucy's clenched fist that slipped out of Laxus's embrace. She was embracing it tightly in her hands.
Laxus gently opened her fist and in Lucy's hand was a tiny communication orb. The ones used for recording a message. Laxus had a bad feeling about this as he used his magic to turn on the orb and play the message left for them.
Laxus's face darkened when he saw the familiar face of a female with her face covered in rose tattoos smiling wickedly at them.
"Helloooooooooo my darlings! I'm glad to see you got my message." A sickly sweet voice sang out as she let out an evil grin. "I suppose you like my gift. You must think you are so cute for thinking that simple little antidote was going to wake the bitch up from MY magic." Zeruiah cackled at the joke she just made. "I'm feeling extra generous, so let's make a deal." Her voice turned dark. "If you don't want your princess to die in her sleep, Dragon, I'd suggest you bring the gems to the base of the Phoenix Mountains by midnight. Time is of the essence. Byeeee." The lacrima went dark.
