A/N: ModernRogue11 hear. I'd like to say that it was difficult coming up with this chapter, not just because of real-world stuff but I wanted to try something different. I'm trying my hand at creating good character development and interaction to make the story more relatable. There are at least three scenes that are the focus of this chapter and each one was a task all on its own. I do hope I did great with these chosen characters and you like the direction I'm going with them.

Without further ado, here's Chapter 10

Chapter 10: Of Pain, Longing, and Heartache

The third day has ended and Fairy Tail was in high spirits.

This was their day.

This was the day they proved that Fairy Tail is back with a BANG!

Everyone was smiling, cheering, and drinking to their heart's content. The bar they rented was loud and a few brawls sprung up in true Fairy Tail fashion. This celebration wouldn't be possible without Erza and her inspirational display of determination; Cana's boisterous yet exciting performance; Ichigo's efficient dispatching of Raven Tail; and finally, Wendy's admirable stand against a seemingly undefeatable foe. Without them, the guild wouldn't be in the first place right now.

While the celebrations were going on, certain individuals had a lot on their thoughts. These individuals were Makarov and Laxus.

The wizened mage and his grandson were sitting together and thinking about their fallen family member, Ivan. The rogue Dreyar had intended to steal Lumen Histoire for his despicable means. If it were not for the Soul Reaper's timely intervention, who knows what would've happened?

Still, that is not what the two Dreyars were contemplating. It was Ichigo and how he dealt with Ivan. Makarov had already conceded to the idea of his son facing his end at the hands of the death god. Despite his reservations, the guildmaster has already deemed his son to be dangerous and therefore needed to be dealt with. He had talked to Laxus regarding this matter and found that the man agreed to the decision. That said, the old master can see the look of regret and despair in his grandson's eyes.

It came as a surprise, however, when Ichigo let Ivan live. The attack, which Karin described to be extremely powerful, had not killed the treacherous wizard. It left Ivan suffering severe burns and concussions, no doubt, but he was still alive. Makarov and Laxus were left wondering why the reaper spared him. Based on what they were told, Ichigo was the kind of person who won't hesitate to kill an enemy if it meant protecting everyone close to him.

So, why?

Why did Ichigo show Ivan some mercy in the end?

"You're wondering why I let Ivan live despite the fact you allowed me to kill him if he got out of control, weren't you?"

The two wizards snapped their heads to see said Soul Reaper looking at them.

"You are correct, Ichigo," Makarov admitted.

"Can I take this seat?" the reaper asked, pointing to the vacant chair at the table they were sitting.

Makarov simply gestured for the Kurosaki to help himself. "So, why did you spare Ivan during your match?"

"Before I tell my reason, I want to ask you something, Makarov."

"Go ahead."

"How did Ivan turn out this way?"

The wizened guildmaster remained quiet for a few minutes. He thought back at how his son changed so drastically that he would even endanger his fellow guildmates before his eventual expulsion. None seemed to come up. "To be honest, I don't know."

"And that's the reason," Ichigo answered like it's a matter of fact.

"I'm afraid I don't follow you," Makarov remarked.

Letting out a sigh, Ichigo looked at Makarov and began explaining. "You already know the kind of person I am, right, Makarov?" Receiving a nod, the reaper continued, "After participating in two major wars, you tend to lose any mercy to your enemies, especially those that act like the filthiest scum on Earthland. Your son was no exception."

Makarov could see the disgust for Ivan in Ichigo's eyes. A chill raced down his spine when an image of a monster momentarily flashed on the Soul Reaper.

"That said," the carrot-top continued, "…it doesn't mean that I'm going to involve myself in the problems of others, especially among family members. I could see that you three need to talk to each other."

"What do you mean?" It was Laxus who questioned this time.

"Closure," Ichigo replied. "Whatever this thing that's going on between the three of you needs to be resolved. It may not look like it, but I can tell by the looks you had when I defeated Ivan that there were still things weighing you down."

Ichigo was perceptive. This was the conclusion both Makarov and Laxus reached. The strain between the Dreyar's relationship was already known by everyone in the guild, but only a few knew how deep that strain goes. For someone new to the guild like Ichigo to find out how much of a burden their conflict was weighing upon them is surprising.

"This problem, for what it's worth, should be put to rest," Ichigo said. "It will just keep on burdening you until the rest of Fairy Tail will be affected. I might even say that the guild's already affected in a way, seeing how Raven Tail maliciously attacked our members."

"But you already dealt with them," Laxus said seeing that raven Tail was already apprehended by the Rune Knights.

"Physically, yes," Ichigo countered. "But the emotional and psychological problem is still there…present between the three of you. Now that Ivan and his gang of misfits are no longer dangerous, I suggest you pay a visit to the madman and talk to him. See if you can find the real reason why he became the man he is right now. Maybe, just maybe, this family feud of yours will finally end, for all our sakes." With those words, the Soul Reaper stood up and began walking towards his wife.

"You're very wise, Ichigo," Makarov said. "Even I failed to see that this burden weighing down on my family was affecting the guild. I thought that since Ivan never made a move, I can let him off the hook. Thank you for opening my eyes that this is just more than a mere squabble. You showed me that whatever this rift between us Dreyars has gone long enough."

"I'm glad you realized that Makarov," Ichigo smiled as he turned his head to see the old man and his grandson. His face then changed into a more serious one; his eyes narrowing that shook the two. "But make no mistake, Makarov. If Ivan ever does anything to harm the guild, I will put him down."

And with that, Ichigo finally left; the warning shaking the two blondes.

Two years.

It was that period which she spent in a different world that changed her. She may be the same Lisanna that the guild had loved and cherished, but her stay in a world with no magic made her into a more capable individual. That said, while she enjoyed her time with the Edolas Fairy Tail, her heart still longed for a way back home. The snow-white-haired girl had already accepted that she might not return to her world, but there was one tether that made her remember the family she loved.

Natsu.

Growing up together and raising Happy were the happiest memories of her life. Although it was just for fun, Lisanna did feel like a real mother. Hearing the blue feline call her Mama again brought all those precious memories back; memories of a wonderful childhood spent with the two most precious people she had apart from her siblings. During those wonderful times, she had grown some form of affection for the dragon slayer. At first, she thought it was nothing more than a friendly feeling you get from spending time with someone so important to you, but that all changed the day she "died". It was at that moment she realized that her heart yearned for him. That fateful day made her understand what that feeling was.

She loved him.

For all his shortcomings, that smile, and confidence is what made Lisanna admire Natsu. His conviction to protect his family with all his power and never give up inspired her to better herself. That drive of his was what kept her pushing forward, and when she was sent to Edolas, she never lost hope that one day she'll return to the ones she loved…to the one she loved.

Sadly, two years can change everything. Lisanna knew that nothing can stay the same during her absence and that can be said for everyone, including Natsu. Seeing him spend time with someone else pained her. Seeing him smile while with Lucy made her tremble. She wished she could be the one to do that to him…to make him smile. Alas, she can't. Her absence was already filled up by someone else. The world had left her behind, and so did Natsu. It made her jealous, but she was better than that. She had to be. It is not in her nature to harbor any resentment toward someone who only brought happiness to her loved ones.

As Lisanna looked up at the night sky, she could see the moon glimmer ever so brightly. Looking down, the cheers from her guild have flowed into the streets as her guildmates slowly made their way to their respective inns. The celebrations have ended, and from the crowd, she should see Natsu, and his team leaves the bar in high spirits. The dragon slayer was talking to the Celestial Spirit wizard with a smile. A knot curled in her as she saw the boy, she loved enjoying time with another. A tear ran down the side of her face.

"I wish I could be the one to make you smile, Natsu," she said to herself as she wiped the stray fluid. "I guess that's all it will be…a wish. Still, I'm glad that you're smiling. It's the only thing I could ever want, and if somebody else can do that, then that's enough for me." Lisanna almost choked from the pain in her heart. She clutched her chest, forcing herself not to cry from the reality but to no avail. Streaks of water started flowing from her eyes as the thought of finally losing the boy she loved. Slowly she calmed down, letting reality sink in and accepting that things have moved on, leaving her behind. The only thing she could do now was to wish him his happiness. "Seeing you smile like that is enough for me, even if I have to live with this pain in my heart. Seeing you happy is all I ever wanted."

"Lisanna?"

The white-haired beauty turned around to see Yukino approaching her. The silver-haired girl was startled to see Lisanna with red puffy eyes.

"Are you crying?"

Lisanna wiped the stains away and did the best she could to compose herself. "It's alright, Yukino. I'm fine"

The Celestial wizard heard the crack in her voice. "What's the matter?"

"It's nothing."

Yukino knew it wasn't just nothing. From the sound of her voice, she knew Lisanna was hurting. Walking up to her, the silver-haired girl placed a hand on the white-haired mage's back and looked with concerned eyes. "You can tell me, Lisanna."

The youngest Strauss gained some form of composure but ultimately waivered. "I'm not sure," Lisanna replied. "Thinking about it hurts so much."

"It's okay, Lisanna," Yukino said. She enveloped the teary-eyed Strauss in a hug. "I may not know what's hurting you, but I'll be a shoulder you can cry on. It's the least I could do for saving me the other day."

Lisanna didn't say anything. The girl kept sobbing on the spirit mage's shoulder.

"Don't hold it in, Lisanna," Yukino whispered. "Let it out. Let it all out."

She finally broke. The pain in her heart let loose the tears she had held for so long. Lisanna's sobs may have been quiet but the weight of each one was evidence of what she was holding inside.

Jealousy.

Longing.

Frustration.

Heartache.

As for Yukino, she was glad that she came looking for the Take-Over mage. Her reason for coming was simply to thank Lisanna for saving her from her former guildmates. The spirit mage didn't expect this to happen, but she was happy, nonetheless. It was her turn to do something for her savior.

It took a while, but the cries of sorrow coming from the young Strauss eventually subsided.

"Better?" Yukino asked, concern still in her mind.

"A little bit," the reply was but a whisper, but it was enough for Yukino to hear. "Thanks, Yukino."

"Anything for a friend," the former Sabretooth mage said.

Now calm, Lisanna wiped what remained of the tears in her eye and looked at the moon. She leaned on the railing and rested her arms on it. Though she still had small fits of sobbing, she was composed enough to talk with the Celestial mage.

"Do you know what it feels like to be taken away from your home?" Lisanna asked Yukino who was listening intently.

"I don't," Yukino admitted. She then urged the fellow mage to continue.

"Almost a decade ago, my siblings and I went on an S-class mission. My older sister, Mira, who was still active at that time brought me and big brother Elfman along as backup to take down a monster called The Beast that was terrorizing a town. Big sister was right in bringing back-up, but it wasn't enough. The creature was just too strong. Maybe if she brought Natsu along when he asked, we could've completed the mission without any complications."

"Natsu?" Yukino questioned.

"He asked to come with us on that mission, but Elfman and Mira shot him down. He was upset but he relented." Lisanna remembered that memory. She had a small smile when Natsu offered to help. That smile, however, disappeared once she recalled the events that followed. "When nothing we do could do was able to stop The Beast, Elfman tried to possess the creature using his Take-Over magic."

Yukino could see Lisanna's eyes take on a horrified look for a moment. She knew then and there that something went wrong. "It failed, didn't it?"

Lisanna nodded. "It did. The Beast took over his mind and he went on a rampage. Big sister Mira tried to stop him, but his magic power combined with the monster just made the fight impossible to win. It was so strong that it managed to break Mira's arm."

Yukino listened to Lisanna's story; remaining quiet to not interrupt the Fairy Tail mage from her recollection.

"Mira told me to run away, saying that the monster will hurt me," Lisanna continued. A light sniff born from her recent sobbing escaped her. "However, I believed that big brother was still there inside that creature. I tried to talk to it, thinking that maybe, just maybe, I can get through to him.

"I was wrong, though. I wasn't able to get through to Elfman and instead, The Beast swung its arm and sent me away." Lisanna closed her eyes, tears threatening to escape once again. "When I came to, every fiber of my body only had pain. That didn't compare though to the sight of seeing my siblings crying over me."

The former Sabretooth member noticed the crack in the Take-Over mage's voice. It must've been painful to remember all those memories.

"Seeing them sad broke my heart, and it broke even further when I was taken away to another world. Hearing them shout my name as I faded from their arms was too much. I tried my best to reassure them, but it was clear my 'death' will haunt them forever."

"That world you were sent to…," Yukino inquired, "…it was called Edolas, wasn't it?"

Lisanna nodded. "It is. A parallel world that mirrors Earthland. It has no magic. When I was there, I got to meet its version of Fairy Tail. They were a lively bunch, but it wasn't the Fairy Tail I knew. Everyone may have the same face as those I grew up with, they weren't the friends and loved ones I came to know." She paused for a moment before going on, "It wasn't the Gray I knew who would strip shamelessly. It wasn't the heavy-drinking Cana who would chug down a full keg. It wasn't my big brother who talked about manly things. It wasn't my big sister who was headstrong that was there. Above all else, it wasn't the fiery and confident Natsu that I've come to know and love that was there."

That last statement caught Yukino by surprise. "You love Natsu!?"

Lisanna giggled. A small smile crept on her face as fond memories of her childhood with the dragon slayer. "I was bound to happen eventually." That reply caused her to blush a bit. "We were so close when we were kids. Natsu and I were inseparable, especially when Happy came and made our lives brighter. We played house and raised the little ball of furry sunshine like we were his parents. I was the mother and Natsu was the father. Those were the happiest days of my life."

The voice coming from the white-haired girl radiated fondness and joy. Those memories were truly the best she could remember.

"But sadly…," Lisanna's tone changed to a somber one, "…such happy times need to end. I was taken away before I got to say how I felt and there in Edolas, I saw its version of Natsu fawning over its version Lucy." She paused, trying to gain a sense of composure while recalling her time in the parallel world. "Although they weren't the ones I knew, it still hurt seeing the man I love fall for someone else.

"I hope and prayed that I could return to my world. For two years, I had to endure pretending to be someone who I'm not. I did make great memories with them, but it felt hollow because I was lying to them even if they knew I wasn't their Lisanna. I had to endure the sight of seeing Natsu smile because of another girl.

"When my prayers were answered, I felt a sense of relief. Finally, I can go home and reunite with my siblings and my best friend. I was expecting that things would still be the same when I returned but just like in Edolas, everything felt different. I got left behind. I tried to reconnect with everyone, especially with Natsu, but only met little success. Then the whole Grimoire Heart fiasco happened, and we went under for seven more years.

Yukino can see the frustration etched in Lisanna's face. She let the girl say what was inside her to ease even just a little bit of what was already a broken heart.

"I was taken away from my loved ones and was made to live a false life for two years. When I came back, all I wanted to do was reconnect, but we were forced into sleep for another seven years. Every time I try to do something to get back any semblance of my old life, fate would always get in the way and prevent that. Now, I lost my chance to show how much I love my best friend." A stream of tears once again leaked out from Lisanna's eyes. She was always an optimist; a person who always saw the brighter side of life. However, with the recent misfortunes that befell her, Lisanna was starting to think that she doesn't deserve happiness. "Maybe the world doesn't want me to be happy," she muttered. Her voice was starting to quiver while trying to not cry again. "This all started because I was foolish to think that I can talk my possessed brother into calming down and I paid the price for my naivete. Now, I don't even think that I belong in this guild anymore." The young Strauss remembered the words of Ichigo from three months ago. "It's funny, you know. Ichigo told me back then that I shouldn't let my fears and doubts consume me but that's exactly what's happening now. Every single thing that I feared came true and it all stemmed from that one moment of carelessness." Finally, all of her thoughts have been said. Lisanna wiped what remained of the tears that were racing down her cheeks after regaining her countenance. Looking up to the sky once more, the young mage voiced a question that was occupying her mind. "What if I just listened to my sister back then? Would things have turned out differently? I can ask these questions all I want but I know it's pointless since I can't change the past. It's my fault and I have to live with the consequences."

Yukino remained quiet as she took in all of what Lisanna said. In a way, she can empathize with her. The Celestial wizard can understand what the Take-Over mage is going through but from a different perspective.

"I know that no matter what I say, I can never understand what it's like to be taken away." Yukino began as she looked to Lisanna with understanding eyes. "But I do know what it's like to have something…or someone that was taken from you."

This got the youngest Strauss' attention. "Someone was taken from you?"

Yukino stayed silent. She recalled the memory. It was the most tragic event of her life. Even if she wanted to forget, the memory was deeply ingrained in her that no matter how much she tried, she will always remember.

"Yes," the spirit mage nodded. "It was my older sister, Sorano."

Lisanna gasped lightly. "What happened?"

"I was young, around seven years old or younger when a group of cultists attacked our village."

"That's terrible!" Lisanna exclaimed.

"I know. They were there to take kids and turn them into slaves. These cultists worship the Black Wizard Zeref. Their purpose for abducting children was to use them as manual labor for the construction of an R-System."

"R-System? Isn't that the lacrima tower that's used to revive the dead?" the Take-Over mage questioned.

"It is," Yukino answered. "You can already guess who they were attempting to revive."

"Zeref," Lisanna answered. There was something wrong with that story though. "But Zeref is alive. Why would they kidnap innocent children for the false belief of reviving someone that's not dead?"

"I don't know myself. There was a rumor though that the Cult of Zeref was headed by a mad scientist who used to work for the Bureau of Magical Development. Maybe it wasn't about reviving Zeref but conducting some mad experiments that were deemed abhorrent by the Magic Council. Whatever the reasons were, their selfish desires caused much pain for me and my big sister."

It was Lisanna's turn to listen. Yukino's story might be a bit different from hers, she understood the pain the silver-haired girl felt.

"When the cultists came, Sorano hid me under a secret basement before they managed to find us. I was able to escape but the same can't be said for my sister. They took her away and I saw all of it with my own eyes. I wanted to help but I'd be breaking the promise we made before the two of us were found."

"What promise is that?"

A faint smile appeared on Yukino's face before answering, "She told me to survive, and never lose faith that we'll see each other again. After the cultists disappeared, I found our village burned to the ground. Only a few survivors remained. I knew from that point on that if I ever wanted to see my sister again, I had to get stronger. I don't want the same thing happening to me again, so I became a Celestial wizard. People like the ones who attacked us are everywhere and the only way to fend them off is to fight back. With that in mind, I trained for years, honing my magic to become powerful enough to fight off those kinds of people and at the same time, search for my sister. I made a vow to myself that once I found big sister, I'll be able to protect and make sure she won't be taken away from me ever again."

"How can you be sure that your sister's still out there?" Lisanna asked.

"I know she is," Yukino answered adamantly. "I will never lose hope that one day, I'll see my big sister again. I'll do whatever it takes to find her and when I do, I'll be the one to take care of her. She's always taken care of me when we were younger so it's my turn to protect her."

As Lisanna continued listening to Yukino, she can't help but admire her conviction. From the sound of her voice, the Celestial mage had the utmost faith that she will see her older sibling again. There's no hint of fear that her sister might be gone. No, Yukino was adamant that she will find Sorano someday.

That strong resolve was the exact opposite of what Lisanna was feeling right now. If it were her from before she supposedly died, maybe her optimism would've been just as strong as Yukino's. Unfortunately, that optimism had diminished. The once hopeful and bright-eyed Lisanna only feels regret and frustration now.

The Take-Over mage had an introspection while hearing Yukino's story. In a way, they mirrored each other and at the same time, they were very different. The circumstances of their plight were similar, yet they stood on opposite ends. One was taken while the other had someone taken from her. The spirit mage held hope while she had none left. Yukino stood in the light with resolve while Lisanna was sinking further into the shadows of her fears.

"Lisanna."

The white-haired maiden looked to the silver-haired wizard.

"I know I can't begin to understand what you're feeling right now, but you shouldn't let it hurt you like this. Things will be better. It always does."

"It doesn't," the Strauss interrupted. "Not everything. Well, at least not my life."

"Don't say that!" In one swift motion, Yukino took Lisanna by the shoulders and turned her so she could face her. "Listen," she began, "This isn't the end! So maybe you no longer have a chance with Natsu, does that mean there aren't other things that you want? How about your siblings? Your Guild? This Tournament? Don't you want to restore Fairy Tail's status as number one? How about becoming stronger?"

"Even if I get stronger, what's the point?" Lisanna replied. "I'll just fail again. I'm naive and just like before, I'll only be the cause of someone getting hurt."

"We all fail once in a while," Yukino countered. "It doesn't mean that it's the end. We simply get back up and try harder until things work out. You have to, Lisanna. I don't want to see a friend hurting like this."

Lisanna perked up at what Yukino called her. "A friend?"

The silver-haired beauty smiled. "Yes," she answered. "You are my friend. You saved me, Lisanna. That alone proves how much of a kind-hearted person you are. That sadness you feel, you don't have to carry it on your own and as your friend, I'm willing to help you with that burden until you learn how to stand back up again with a smile."

Touched by the words, Lisanna couldn't help but tear up once again. Maybe it won't be difficult after all. Maybe she doesn't have to carry it all on her own. Yukino was there, willing to lend her a helping hand a shoulder to cry on. The feeling of loneliness was slowly ebbing away, gradually being replaced by a sense of comfort.

Lisanna moved forward and wrapped her arms around the Celestial mage. Yukino was surprised, but only for an instant as she returned the appreciative gesture in kind.

"Thank you, Yukino," Lisanna said sincerely. "Maybe it's not so bad after all. I may have been left behind by time, but at least someone was willing to stand beside me while I catch up."

"I owe you," Yukino said. "I wouldn't be here if it weren't for your kindness. I'll stand beside and help you overcome this sadness that you have because I'm your friend."

Lisanna liked the word, but she had a better one in mind. "Best friend," she uttered.

"Yeah," Yukino agreed. "I like that."

Although not fully relieved of the feeling of heartache, Lisanna was shown that all is not lost for her. The misfortunes she had throughout her life will forever affect her. That said, the burdens that it poses, she won't have to carry it on her own now that a friend has lent her help in carrying that weight.

Thankful, Lisanna let go of her embrace on Yukino as they both looked up at the night sky. The moon was shining brightly that the light seemed to give off a feeling of hope; like despite the ever-present darkness of the evening, the moon will always shine when it is needed. That, in turn, filled her with a semblance of hope, that one day, everything will be better.

What the mages didn't know was that two figures were watching their conversation. One garbed in black while the other in white, these individuals left the two teens to tell their elder brother the story they just heard.

"I wonder what her reaction will be," Yuzu said to her siblings and sister-in-law.

"She'll be speechless, no doubt," Karin replied.

"I'm so excited!" Orihime squealed.

Ichigo was smiling at how the three women of his life were talking to each other. They had been discussing this for a while now. It was regarding Yukino and her unfortunate predicament. Right now, the Kurosaki family minus Kazui was waiting for the said Celestial mage to arrive. For the moment, they had given her a place to stay in the inn they rented. The family, Ichigo in particular, had an offer for Yukino that would help her in the long run.

The women's conversation was halted by a set of footsteps from outside their lodge. Each one tried to identify who this person was by feeling their spiritual energy. To their delight, it was the girl of the hour. The doorknob to their room twisted to open the door revealing none other than Yukino Agria.

"Welcome back, Yukino," Orihime greeted the teen with a motherly smile.

"Good evening, Mrs. Kurosaki," the Celestial mage said curtly before facing the head of the family. "Good evening, Mr. Kurosaki."

Ichigo groaned. These kids should stop addressing him formally. Letting that slide, for now, he decided to tell her the offer he had.

"Sit down, Yukino," the hybrid requested. "I need to tell you something."

Curious, Yukino did as she was told and took a seat not far from the Soul Reapers. "Do you need anything?"

Ichigo shook his head. "No. It's something we want to do for you."

"F-For…me?" the mage stuttered, surprised that the family was willing to do something for a stranger like her. "Why?"

Yukino saw Ichigo smile at her. The gesture was fatherly, and it gave her a warm feeling of safety and comfort.

"Because we understand how you feel. Even more so now that we know what happened to you early in your childhood," the reaper answered, his tone was caring and thoughtful. "Tell us Yukino, do you ever feel alone?"

The question struck a chord in the spirit mage's heart. Sure, she had a place to belong back when she was still in Sabretooth, but it didn't feel like a home. Everyone was so focused on becoming stronger only to neglect to make bonds with their guildmates. The guild felt hollow and lifeless. It was different when she was younger. Yukino was happy being with her big sister but all of that was taken away so suddenly by people with ill intent. Had that horrible day never occurred, maybe she would never feel lonely at all.

"I do," Yukino answered. Her face was downcast when she gave her reply.

"Yukino."

The girl looked up to see Orihime looking at her with motherly affection.

"Sweetie, all of us here know how it feels to lose the home you've come know and love," the Fullbringer said. She approached the bewildered girl and placed a hand over the mage's shoulder. "It was taken from you so suddenly that you didn't know what to do. When you tried to find another, it didn't feel the same way as your old one. You felt like an outsider. You were a part of your former guild, but you never belonged there."

"Like you, we also lost our home," Karin added. "Our home…our world was lost because of one man's desire for power. Our friends, loved ones, and comrades perished in that struggle. We survived because they believed we can make a better future."

Yuzu, who stood beside her twin, also added, "When we got here, we tried to isolate ourselves since we are strangers in an equally strange world. Our family interacted with this reality's people but never formed bonds. We thought that if we did, it would remind us of what we lost. It was thanks to Kazui that we now belong to a guild that values family above all else."

As she listened to their stories, Yukino can't help but feel touched that these people can empathize with her. Their loss was just as much as hers if not more. At first, she was surprised that they don't belong to Earthland. That sense of surprise though was quickly replaced with a feeling of sympathy for the friends and families they had who perished in their world. Still, why did they tell their story to her?

"I'm sure you're wondering why we're opening up to you," Ichigo said. He earned a nod from the mage before continuing. "Nobody has the right to do what Sabretooth did to you. You only wanted a home, instead, you got punished for something inconsequential. You were humiliated and molested by your guildmates. Our family doesn't want that to happen to you again. We will protect you while you grow into the powerful and respected mage you are meant to be."

Yukino could not believe it. Never had she expected this to happen. She then saw Ichigo take out some papers and handed them to her. She read the contents and the first set of words nearly made her shed tears.

CERTIFICATE FOR ADOPTION

"Y-You're…a-adopting…me?" Yukino asked. Her voice was quivering and on the verge of crying.

"We are," Ichigo answered sincerely.

"Why?"

"Because you need a home," Orihime answered. It was just like that time she defended the Celestial mage. "…And because we want to."

"Yukino," Ichigo called. "You don't have to be alone anymore."

The younger Agria continued to stare and the paper. Her attention was directed at the bold letters on the header. The girl couldn't believe it. Just after she was kicked out of her old guild, a new family was going to adopt her with arms wide open. A torrent of emotions swirled within her. It made her hands tremble and tears pour from her eyes. Some of those tears landed on the papers she was holding. It smudged some of the writings, but it did not lessen the weight of what was written.

Finally unable to hold it in anymore, Yukino lunged at the closest member of the Kurosaki family, namely Orihime, and hugged her as her life depended on it. The Fullbringer can hear the sobs the silver-haired girl was making while her face was buried in her chest.

"Thank you," the mage cried. "You didn't have to do this for me, but you did anyway." All Yukino could feel now was an intense sensation of joy and acceptance. She has a family again. "I'm so happy right now."

Even if they could barely hear it, the Kurosaki siblings knew how much happiness the girl was feeling right now. Suddenly, someone came into the room all groggy and slightly sleepy.

It was Kazui.

When the kid reaper saw what was happening, he got confused and promptly asked everyone what was going on.

"Mom. Dad. What's going on?"

"Kazui, come here," Ichigo called his son who quickly went towards him. "Do you want to have a big sister?"

"A big sister?" asked the confused boy.

"Yukino."

The girl separated from Orihime. She was no longer crying but the stains were still present in her eyes. "Yes, Mr. Kurosaki?"

Ichigo then gestured his son to look at the girl. "This is Yukino, Kazui. Remember when your mom saved a girl from some bad men the other day? This is the girl."

"Oh. I remember."

"She was kicked out of her guild, Sabretooth because she lost a match. They humiliated after she left."

Kazui was aghast. "That's horrible!"

"I know."

"But if she got kicked out of her guild, then she no longer has a home."

"I wouldn't say that."

"Why?"

"Because we just gave her one."

"What do you mean?"

"Tell me Kazui, do you want a big sister?"

The boy stopped to think for a moment. It didn't take him long before he shook his head up and down rapidly in affirmation. "Yes!"

Ichigo chuckled at his son's antics. "Well, we just adopted Yukino here. She's now part of our family. She's going to your big sister from now on."

Kazui looked at Yukino in surprise. Yukino, for her part, approached the wide-eyed boy and smiled at him. "Hello, Kazui. My name is Yukino Agria and I'm going to be your big sister."

Kazui didn't say anything. Instead, he used Flash Step and tackled the teen girl with full force. Yukino yelped in surprise at the sudden gesture but once she saw how happy her soon-to-be little brother was, she can't help but hug him in return.

"YEY!" Kazui yelled in excitement. "I have a big sister!"

"And I have a lively little brother," Yukino added.

From the side, the husband and wife were watching the scene unfold. Words can't even begin to describe how joyful Yukino was right now. As they sat beside each other, the orange-haired woman slung her arms around her husband from behind and gave him a quick peck on his cheek.

"That was very compassionate of you, honey," Orihime said.

"This only happened because all of you agreed with me," Ichigo replied before facing his wife.

"The three of us would've said 'Yes' otherwise." Both spirit warriors giggled at each other before looking back at their son and adopted daughter.

Yuzu and Karin joined the couple as they watched Yukino and Kazui interact like actual siblings. It made them warm and fuzzy inside that they gave a person in need a home and a family to belong to. That said, now that Celestial mage is under the guardianship of the Kurosaki family, she might be inclined to join Fairy Tail after this whole tournament ends. For now, they rest for the night and get to know their new daughter/niece in the morning.

Morning.

Even when the rays of light illuminated the isolation room, it still felt empty and barren. The only sounds to be heard were the beeping of machines that serve as life support for the patient inside. He lay there in his bed, already conscious yet unable to move from all the injuries dealt with him by Ichigo Kurosaki.

This man was none other than Ivan Dreyar.

Ever since heat humiliating defeat at the hands of the reaper, the rogue Dreyar had been closely monitored by the Rune Knights. His attempt to steal Lumen Histoire and blatant declaration of murder in front of hundreds of watchers made him the most infamous man of the Grand Magic Games. With the authorities watching over him, Ivan can do nothing but watch at the dull ceiling and wait for the inevitable judgment he'll be facing.

The door suddenly opened, catching the dark guildmaster's attention. Two figures entered his prison, causing him to frown at the newcomers.

"Here to gloat, old man?" Ivan asked. He then set his sights on the taller one. "And I see you brought my pathetic son with you."

The visitors were Makarov and Laxus Dreyar.

The two didn't reply at first. Instead, they simply approached their fallen family member who was glaring at them. When they were beside Raven Tail's master, the two stayed silent as they looked at Ivan.

"I must commend you for finding such a monster to join your guild," Ivan said, trying to provoke his visitors.

"I don't want to play games with you, Ivan," Makarov declared. He may look calm, but inside he was seething. "We came here to talk."

"Talk? What's there to talk, old coot?"

"Why?"

"Huh?" Ivan stared at his father confused.

"Why go through all this? Why hurt the people you once called family?"

"Do I have to answer that, father?" Ivan questioned. "To be the best, you fool! We had power in the form of Lumen Histoire. We had unlimited power! If you weren't so spineless then Fairy Tail could've ruled the magic world!"

"I see." The disappointment was written all over Makarov's face. Where did he go wrong in raising him?

The old man just kept silent as his eyes looked down. Different emotions were filling up his mind, but the most prominent was frustration for letting his son turn out this way and sadness that their family bond might not be salvageable.

"What's the matter, old man? Cat got your tongue?" Ivan taunted. He had a smug look on his face seeing his old man distraught.

"That's enough, dad."

The fallen Dreyar's goading stopped when his son stepped in and intervened.

"If it isn't my disappointment of a son. Tell me, did you come here to grovel at my feet?"

Laxus' eyes narrowed. "I'm not here to kiss your feet, dad. We just wanted to know if we can still fix this thing between our family."

"Fix things? You think I'm going to fix things with you after kicking me out of the guild?"

"That was your fault after what you did to the guild years ago!" Laxus exclaimed.

"Feh!" Ivan scoffed. "Those fools were weaklings. I don't understand why you let them join the guild in the first place?"

"Because we provide a home, Ivan," Makarov replied. "We will not turn away anyone as long as their intentions are good."

"And look what that brought you," Raven Tail's master spat, "…You got beaten by Grimoire Heart and was put under by Acnologia for seven years. If that is a sign of weakness, then I don't know what is."

"So? What does that prove?"

"That you should get down from your high horse and stop being so self-righteous! You could've harnessed Lumen Histoire's power and eliminated that accursed dragon and that damned dark guild!"

"I will not use that power just to lord over the continent! That is the First Master's body you want to defile! I will not let the guild's treasure be used for such immoral deeds!"

"Treasure!? Bah! Lumen Histoire is Fairy Tail's greatest sin. You think I don't know how that lacrima of unlimited power came to be?"

That declaration caught Makarov's attention. "Who told you that?" The old mage asked. He already had an inkling as to who revealed this information to his son.

"Does it matter?" Ivan questioned. "I'm pretty sure you already know who gave the intel to me."

The wizened mage frowned. "So, it was Purehito who gave it to you."

"Again, what does it matter? It's not like I'll be able to do anything with that sword-wielding freak around."

"You know dad," Laxus stared at his father with a cold gaze, "…you were lucky Ichigo showed some mercy. As far as what we know about him, he could've done much worse if the circumstances were different."

"Oh, please tell me what could be worse than what he's already done to me."

"He would've killed you."

That shut up Ivan.

"Now, do you understand just how much of a mistake you made when you fought Ichigo of all people?"

"But I thought Fairy Tail had a 'no killing' policy?" Ivan stammered, still surprised that the light guild harbored a man such as Ichigo.

"He's not like the rest of the guild, Ivan," Makarov answered this time. "Ichigo Kurosaki is a man who has lost everything he has known save for his wife and sisters. He has seen things and struggled beyond anything anyone in Fairy Tail has ever experienced. As such, he will do what is necessary to ensure the safety of his loved ones and the guild. So, I suggest you don't anger him, Ivan, for you will incur the wrath of a man far more powerful than Gildarts and I combined."

The confined wizard was shocked to silence. A person more powerful than Gildarts and his father combined? What kind of monster would have such power?

"You know, Ivan…"

Said mage looked to his father.

"…I always thought that you would cease your twisted ways. I've been watching your movements ever since you left the guild. I was anticipating that you would do something to hurt Fairy Tail while we were put into suspended animation for seven years. When we came back, I thought we could mend this broken family since you haven't attacked the guild during my absence. Sadly, that isn't the case. You maliciously hurt my children and humiliated them. You even resorted to outright using an innocent girl as a hostage just to spite us. These actions are unforgivable." One can hear the anger in Makarov. Though calm in his delivery, the old mage finally had enough of his son's treachery. "I tried giving you a chance to redeem yourself but you simply squandered that opportunity. Because of that, I no longer feel any sympathy towards you. Whatever judgment the Magic Council decides, I wish for it to fit the weight of the crimes you committed." The Third Guildmaster turned around and began walking towards the door. He paused for a moment and gazed at his son one final time and said, "From this day forth, consider yourself an enemy of Fairy Tail. Any move you make against the guild will be met with decisive action and extreme prejudice. If any of my children are harmed because of your doing, we will hunt you down until justice is rightfully served. Consider yourself warned."

With that, Makarov left the confines of the isolation room, leaving a wide-eyed Ivan and a thoughtful Laxus. Both of them knew that the wizened mage had shown anger when someone from the guild was harmed, case in point with Phantom Lord, but not like this. This was the first time the Third Guildmaster has directly threatened an enemy with severe retribution if any foul deeds were committed to the guild. It was directed to his son, no less. The revelation of Ivan's crimes coupled with Ichigo's words from last night finally opened the old man's eyes to the truth…

…His son was beyond redemption.

"I looked up to you, dad," Laxus admitted to his bedridden father. "You gave me the chance to use magic despite my poor health when I was younger. Because of that, I wanted to be like you. Both of us wanted to step away from gramps' shadow. You wanted to make the guild strong and I held the same ideal. When you were kicked out, I never understood his reasoning so I ended up despising him. Holding to your ideals, I tried to take Fairy Tail by force, thinking that only by ridding the weak and leading by might can I change the guild to be the strongest."

Ivan saw something strange from his son. Something unexpected and unusual.

Laxus face softened and a smile graced his face. A smile of realization and self-reflection.

"But I was wrong. Nothing in the guild needed to change because everyone was already strong. When I was exiled, I reflected on my actions and weighed if my ideals…your ideals, were right. It was only when was reinstated into the guild that I find out why you were expelled. Even then, he never gave up that one day, you'll come back a changed man." The grandson's expression then turned serious. "However, our hopes were shattered because of what you did to my guildmates. You never wanted to make the guild strong, you just wanted power for yourself."

Just like Makarov, Laxus began walking away from Ivan.

"You will always be my father," Laxus said just as he stopped in front of the exit. "But it doesn't mean you get a free pass for all the things that you've done. Although it may no longer be a possibility given your condition, I'm still not just going to sit by and let you do anything to the guild. I'm going to protect it as I should have years ago." Glancing at his father one last time, Laxus made his intentions loud and clear to Ivan. "You're my enemy now. This will be the last time we'll part peacefully because if we cross paths in the future, I promise that I'll fight you until the end. Goodbye, dad."

With those final words, Laxus exited the room and closed the door shut.

A/N: ModernRogue11 speaking. I'm so glad I got to publish this chapter, but I'm going to address some things that are written in the comments. None of it is negative. It might be beneficial to the story overall.

First off...HOLY SHIT! BLEACH IS BACK! The madman Tite Kubo is back with a brand new chapter that may very well set up a new arc featuring Hell of all places. HELL! I remembered watching the Hell Verse movie and the opening sequence alone sold it for me. Now, the question here is...

Will Kubo continue to use the concepts from the movie? Or create something entirely new?

Whatever it is he chooses, I do not doubt that he will be able to give us a good story now that his health is recovering and he has time to do this at his own pace. There's also the upcoming final (not anymore) arc for the anime next year. My only wish for this arc is that they fix the stuff that made no sense in the manga. Kubo was forced to end Bleach because the publisher pushed him to end it as well as his failing health. I hope this time, we get to see the Thousand-Year Blood War play out like the author originally intended.

Second...Aurum Faea requested that I use the Japanese names of Kido instead of English. I am open to the idea since it will give the spells some authenticity and make it sound like some Lost Magic that's exclusive only to Soul Reapers. The reason I used English was that Ichigo and the rest of his family lived in Fiore for fifteen years, learning everything about the world including its language. In a way, they've gotten used to using the Fiorian tongue, and that in turn also affected how they recite the incantations for Kido. It may be a different language, it would still hold the same mechanics regardless.

Still, I'd like everyone's opinion on this. Should I use Japanese or should I stick to English? Let me know in the comments section.

As always, like/favorite the story if you find it enjoyable. Comments and suggestions are always welcomed. Please no flaming. If you want to criticize my work, do it constructively.

Until next time.