Hey everyone! I'm finally back to update this story! I apologize for the long delay, but I've been extremely busy with school, work, and the holidays these past few weeks. But I've finished school for this semester and I've updated my Pokemon fic, so now I have time to focus on this story for a bit. Like usual I will try to have a few quick update chapters out before I work on my Akame ga Kill fic, so look forward to that. This chapter will wrap up the Tower of Heaven arc and start the transition into the Battle for Fairy Tail arc. This story is nearing 800 reviews, 1700 followers, and 1600 favorites. Thank you all for your continued support and patience.
P.S. For those of you who have been keeping up with the manga, Irene's relation to Erza and her backstory were revealed recently. Because of how she's related to Erza it may prove to be difficult to add her into Natsu's harem, but I still want to try and add her somehow. I'll have to wait and see what happens with her later in the manga, but I think I might have a way to include her, especially with her backstory being the way it is. So Irene is still up in the air right now, but I still would love to add her, because I love her character and design. Plus I just feel like she would be a good final addition to Natsu's harem. Let me know what you guys think.
P.P.S. I recently got a PM from some group named The PolicyofTruth, warning me about the lemons in some of my fics, namely this fic; which is total bullshit, and it really upset me, since this fic only has two lemons, both of which are under 1,500 words, out of almost 30 chapters. I didn't take his warning too seriously, but just to be safe I want to be sort of careful for a little while. This site's rules regarding lemons never cease to irritate me, and it always seems to be my fics that get targeted for their lemons, when there's literally thousands of stories on this site that are nothing more than extremely graphic lemon fics. Sure my lemons can get a little racy, especially in this story, but they're nothing compared to some of the lemon fics I've read. There's dozens of better options this site can use, instead of straight up deleting stories and suspending authors for having sex in their stories. Like if they're so pissy about lemons just add a simple MA rating option for fics, or something like that. I would happily change my fics to a MA rating if it meant I wouldn't have to worry about them being deleted. This site is supposed to be a place for authors to be able to express themselves and share their ideas, but it's hard to do that when there's so many restrictions. I really don't want to, but if I have to, I will take my stories onto a different site. I don't want to have to do that, but I will if my fics are in danger of being deleted. I have this story and my Akame ga Kill fics backed up on Google Drive, so if they ever happened to get deleted I will be able to reupload them on another site. I hope that won't happen, but if I have to I will.
So without any further delay, let's get to the fic!
"Speech"
"Thoughts"
Magic
Disclaimer: I don't own Fairy Tail, or any of its characters
(Two Hours Later: Beach Outside Akane Resort)
"Um...so yeah...we're real sorry about everything that happened Erza." Wally said, rubbing the back of his head in embarassment. "We should have never believed those lies Jellal was telling us."
"I'm sorry too Er-chan." Milliana muttered sheepishly, as she hung her head in shame. "I knew you'd never abandon us like that."
"No, I'm the one who should be apologizing to you guys." Erza said, tightly balling her fists in self-loathing. "I'm the the stupid girl who didn't help her friends for eight whole years."
"Yeah, but you were being threatened by Jellal." Shô reasoned, as he tried to raise Erza's spirits. "You were forced to stay away from us, to protect us from him."
"I can't keep using excuses like that anymore..." Erza said in a saddened tone, rubbing her arm as she stared down at her feet. "If only I had thought of something sooner, then Simon-"
"You can't blame yourself for what happened to Simon, nee-san!" Shô exclaimed, as he took a step towards Erza. "He was just-"
"I understand how he felt..." Erza cut Shô off, holding up her hand to stop his advance. "I know how all of you must have felt..." A single tear rolled down Erza's cheeks. The scarlet-haired knight took a calming breath and wiped the tears from her face. "But we have no other option but to keep moving forward. Into the future that Simon helped secure for us."
"Yeah...you're right, nee-san." Shô muttered, as a sad smile spread across his face. "Simon wouldn't want us mourning him forever."
"It's so sad but..." Milliana said, crossing her arms behind her back. "Simon will always be with us, in our hearts."
"I have to believe in that...or I wouldn't be able to live with myself...son of bitch..." Wally struggled to say, as he took off his hat in respect, tears falling from his eyes. "I mean...what was the point of all this!?"
"We have to turn the past into the future and keep on moving forward." Erza said, rubbing the mate mark on her shoulder, feeling a comforting warmth spread through her body. "And the step we all take today will be the one that leads us to tomorrow."
"The step we take today, eh?" Wally parroted, as he put his hat back on and wiped away his tears.
"What are we going to do now?" Milliana asked no in particular, releasing a heavy sigh.
"If you all have nowhere else to go, you can come with us back to Fairy Tail and join our guild." Erza said, which caused all of her old nakama's eyes to widen in shock. "I'm sure you'd all be welcome there with open arms. I mean we're not ones to really hold grudges." A soft smile spread across Erza's face, as she extended her hand towards her old nakama. "I know it's not the same as the freedom that you guys were searching for all these years...but freedom is something that is very plentiful in Fairy Tail. I think you'd all really like it there."
"Hey, that Salamander kid was saying the same thing!" Wally exclaimed, turning to face Milliana.
"It's the most exciting guild in the world!" Milliana cheered with a large smile on her face.
"Plus, I'd love to be able to stay with you guys forever." Erza added, as she ran her fingers through her pink and scarlet locks. When the scarlet-haired knight spoke next, she muttered underneath her breath. "Especially since I have some wonderful news to tell you all. I'm finally with the man that I love."
"You've changed nee-san..." Shô thought, staring at Erza with curiosity, before a small smile spread across his face. "You seem stronger somehow."
"Now then..." Erza got everyone's attention, as she clapped her hands together. "Why don't we all head back now? I've got to properly introduce you all to Natsu and my other nakama."
"You can introduce me as the world's dandiest man." Wally tried to say in a cool voice, adjusting his sunglasses.
"I want to be best friends with Happy!" Milliana cheered, as she ran up to Erza and hugged her arm. "Will you introduce me to him, Er-chan!? I want to start fresh with him!"
"Of course Milliana." Erza said with a smile, ruffling Milliana's hair, much to her annoyance.
"Hey nee-san, there's something that I've been thinking about..." Shô said, as he followed closely behind Erza, his head cocked to the side in confusion.
"What's up Shô?" Erza asked, turning around to face the young man.
"I was just wondering..." Shô said, as he scratched his chin. "What's up with your hair?"
(That Night: Lucy's Room at the Akane Resort)
"Mmmm Natsu, your hands are amazing." Lucy moaned, releasing a long, happy sigh. The blonde celestial spirit mage was currently laying on her stomach, with Natsu straddling her hips. The dragon slayer's hands were hard at work massaging Lucy's back, his warm hands soothing her tight and aching muscles. "I could stay like this forever."
"Maybe you could reward me for helping you relax and unwind." Natsu whispered, as he gently nibbled on her ear.
"Hmmm, keep this up and you just might get your wish." Lucy said with a smirk, turning her head to give Natsu a quick kiss.
"LUCY!" Both mages were shocked when Erza suddenly burst into the blonde's room. The scarlet-haired knight immidiately stopped in her tracks when she saw the position Natsu and Lucy were in, her face tinting the same color as her hair. "S-Sorry to interrupt!" Embarrassed about interrupting Natsu and Lucy during their 'intimate' moment, Erza ran back into the hallway, slamming the door behind her.
"Erza! Come back! Natsu was just giving me a massage!" Lucy exclaimed, as she hopped of the bed and ran to the door. Throwing the door open, Lucy found Erza standing there sheepishly. Releasing a light sigh, Lucy tugged Erza back into the room. "It's fine Erza. I promise you weren't interrupting anything. My back was sore and Natsu offered to give me a massage."
"I understand..." Erza muttered, rubbing her arm nervously. "I still should have knocked though. I mean what if you two were...being intimate?"
"So?" Natsu asked with a shrug of his shoulders, as he slid off the bed and walked over to Erza and Lucy. The scarlet-haired knight was taken aback when Natsu suddenly wrapped his arm around her waist, pulling her close and gave her passionate kiss. The kiss caught Erza off guard, but she quickly recovered and started to kiss Natsu back. When the two mages eventually broke their liplock, Erza's was panting slightly and her face bright red. "You, Lucy, and I are together now, we're a family. So you can't be getting embarrassed if you see us being intimate. Hell, you could even join us if you wanted."
"I don't think I'm ready for that yet..." Erza said quietly, her faces turning several shades darker. "But I will try to work on not getting worked up when I see you together with other girls. It's just going to take a little getting used to."
"Take as long as you need Erza." Natsu said with a smile, as he placed a loving kiss on Erza's forehead. "I'm not gonna force you to do anything you're not comfortable with."
"By the way Erza..." Lucy chimed in, getting the scarlet-haired knight's attention. "What did you want? You seemed pretty worked up when you first burst in here."
"Oh, that's right!" Erza exclaimed, as her eyes widened considerably. "Have either of you seen Shô or the other?"
"I haven't seen any of them since we all ate dinner together." Lucy replied, tapping her chin as she thought. "What about you Natsu?"
"I haven't seen them in a while either." Natsu said, as he shook his head. "I did see that Milliana girl playing with Happy earlier, but I haven't seen her since then."
"They were supposed to be staying at this hotel as well, but I can find them anywhere." Erza said, nervously bitting her bottom lip. "Where could they have gone?"
"Even after we said we should all check out tomorrow and head to guild together..." Lucy said, as she crossed her arms underneath her chest. "That's very strange...you don't they ran off without telling anyone?"
"I don't know..." Erza replied, releasing a heavy sigh.
"Why don't you see if you can pick up their scents?" Natsu asked, as he tapped his nose. "Your sense of smell should be almost on par with mine now, and you will know their scents better then Lucy or I."
"That's...not a bad idea." Erza said, staring at Natsu in shock. "Good thinking Natsu."
"I'm not a total idiot." Natsu said with a smirk, as he leaned against a nearby wall. "I do get a good idea from time to time."
"Well here goes nothing." Erza said, taking a calming breath, before she began to sniff the air in search of her old nakama's scents. After several moments Erza seemed to catch her friend's scents. But Lucy and Natsu were surprised to see that Erza seemed more upset then relieved. Releasing a heavy sigh, Erza suddenly hung her head. "I see..."
"What's up Erza? Did you find your friends?" Lucy asked, as she placed a hand on Erza's shoulder. "If you did we should probably go after them. There's no reason for you guys to be apart-"
"Thank you Lucy...but they've made their decision..." Erza said, softly smiling at the blonde celestial spirit and gently shaking off her hand. A sad look spread across Lucy's face, before she nodded her head in understanding. "Natsu...please find Gray and get some 'fireworks' ready." Erza then turned to leave the room. "Meet me down at the beach in twenty minutes."
"Wait Erza!" Lucy called out, but the scarlet-haired knight had already left. "Fireworks? What's she talking about Natsu?"
"Come on Luce." Natsu said, grabbing ahold of Lucy's hand and leading her out of the room. "We're gonna need your help as well."
(Five Minutes Later: Town Just Outside Akane Resort)
"The outside world truly is exciting..." Shô said, as he stared at the crowds of happy and laughing people around him. "All these people are just walking around...even though it's night time."
"OI!" A sudden commotion caused Shô to turn around, where he spotted Milliana being yelled at by the owner of one of the many stalls. "What the hell do you think you're doing!? You little..."
"What's Milliana gotten herself into now..." Shô muttered, releasing a light sigh as he walked over towards the cat-girl.
"Huh?" Milliana asked, as she cocked her head in confusion, taking a bite of a chocolate covered banana. "Did I do something wrong."
"You can't just eat that banana!" The stall owner yelled, slamming his fist onto the countertop.
"Why? A bunch of them were just sitting here, so I thought I'd eat one, that's all." Milliana said, now more confused then ever. "They looked really delicious."
"I will thank you for complimenting my cooking, but those are for sale!" The stall shouted, as a vein bulged on his forehead. "You can't just go around eating them because you feel like it!"
"For...sale?" Milliana repeated in a confused tone, quirking an eyebrow. "What's that mean?"
"I don't know what's going on here, but if these things are yours, you shouldn't just leave them out for everyone to see." Wally said, as he stood next to Milliana protectively. "That doesn't seem too smart to me."
"Alright I've had enough! Will the both of you shut the hell up!?" The stall owner roared, slamming his fist onto the counter repeatedly. "Now pay up! Give me the money you owe me!"
"Hey Wally, what's money?" Milliana asked, as she turned to the blockheaded man.
"Oh...m-money...that's...you know..." Wally stuttered, trying his best to think of something to say, before turning to the stall owner. "Help me out here man. I've never actually heard of this 'money' thing before."
"Oh! Trying to pull a fast one on me are you!?" The stall owner yelled, as he wagged his finger. "Well you better give it up! Hand it over! Pay me now damn it!"
"This way!" Shô exclaimed, grabbing ahold of Milliana's hand and pulling her into a nearby crowd of people. "Wally, Milliana! Follow me!"
"NYA! Hold on Shô!" Milliana yelped, as she struggled to keep up with Shô pace.
"Oi Shô! What the hell is 'money' anyways!?" Wally asked, running behind Milliana.
"Forget about that for now Wally!" Shô yelled, as he spotted the stall owner chasing after them. "We have to move!"
"Hold it you little bastards!" The stall owner roared, sprinting after the the thieves. "Hold it!"
"He's coming after us!" Milliana shouted, extending her hand towards the stall owner. "I'll use my magic-"
"No!" Shô exclaimed, as he slapped Milliana's hand. "Since we're living in the outside world now, we can't just use magic to solve all our problems."
(Twenty Minutes Later: Beach South of Akane Resort)
"Do you think we'll really be able to survive in the outside world?" Wally asked, sitting on the edge of the small boat that Shô was preparing. Behind Wally was Milliana, who was hugging her knees as she sat inside the boat. The cat-girl had a sad look on her face, as she buried her head into her knees. "That little incident earlier wasn't a very good sign..."
"It doesn't matter whether we can or not! We have to!" Wally exclaimed in a frustrated tone, untying the boat from a nearby post. "We can't stay here and cause anymore trouble for nee-san and Fairy Tail." Both Wally and Milliana nodded in agreement, and seemed to perk up just a little. "Now let's get out of here! We've gotta go before nee-san and the others realize we're gone!"
"You're right! We'll make it somehow!" Wally said with a smirk, as he helped Shô push the boat out to sea.
"Let's do our best!" Milliana cheered, pumping her fist into the air.
"Hold it right there!" A familiar voice caused Shô, Wally, and Milliana to freeze in place. Turning around, the three of them were shocked to see Erza walking towards them. The scarlet-haired knight had a stern look on her face, as she approached the trio.
"N-Nee-san..." Shô said, as he gulped audibly.
"I-If you're going to try and stop us...don't bother!" Wally exclaimed, trying his best to act tough in front of Erza. "We've made up our minds, and we're not backing down now..."
"We lived our entire lives inside that damn tower...now we're trying to take our first steps in the outside world..." Shô said, as he avoided Erza's gaze and tightly balled his fists. "Sure there are so many things we don't know, things that we're scared about...but we want to see what the world has to offer with our own eyes. We don't want to keep relying on you or anyone else our entire lives...and we don't want to live for anyone else's sake either. We want to live our lives ourselves...to find the things that we really want to do!" Taking a calming breath, Shô raised his head and smiled at Erza. "That's the freedom we've been searching for all these years!"
"With a strong and unwavering will like that, you all can accomplish anything you set your hearts to." Erza said with a small smile, clutching a hand over her aching heart. "Although I'm still sad, I'm also quite relieved now." Erza's old nakama were surprised when her body was suddenly bathed in a bright white light. "However...I have three rules that I am honor bound to tell anyone leaving Fairy Tail. So you three better listen well, because I won't repeat myself." When the light encompassing Erza died down, she dressed in a new armor. The breastplate was fairly plain, with the waistguard attached to it being similar to the one in Erza's new Heart Kreuz armor, composed of simply two hanging plates, paired with a ruffled cloth sprouting from under it over some chainmail; all of which surmounted a long skirt, reaching down to Erza's knees and covering the rather featureless greaves. The gauntlets, covered the entirety of her arms, are similarly unadorned with only her pauldrons, composed of overlapping plates, having some decorations over the upper plates.
"Hold up...'leaving." Wally parroted in a confused tone, as he quirked an eyebrow. "We never joined in the first place."
"One!" Erza exclaimed, getting everyone's attention, as she slammed a staff adorning Fairy Tail's flag into the ground. "You must never, under any circumstance, reveal any sensitive information about Fairy Tail to outsiders, as long as you live! Two! You must never use the clients you met through the guild to achieve personal gain!" Everyone's serious facade was broken when Erza momentarily stopped to choke back a sob. The scarlet-haired knight took a shaky breath to calm herself, as tears streamed down her cheeks. "Th-Three! Though our paths may split...y-you must live out your lives to the fullest! You m-must never consider your life insignificant!" By now Erza's old nakama were crying as well, all of them touched by the scarlet-haired knight's words. "N-Never forget the friends that you hold d-dear!" Briefly bitting her lip to hold back another sob, Erza raised her staff high into the air. "Let the Fairy Tail send off party...begin!"
"You guys!" Natsu cheered, as he appeared behind Erza with Gray and Lucy beside him. "We'll totally see you again sometime!" A grin spread across Natsu's face, as he pointed at Erza's old nakama. "Make sure you all stop by Fairy Tail sometime and visit Erza! She's gonna miss all you all!" The pink-haired dragon slayer then turned to face Lucy and Gray. "Alright you two! You know what to do! Let's light it up!" Natsu's pointed his head skyward, as his cheeks bulged with magic. Moments later Natsu fired a volley of compact balls of lightning and fire dragon slayer magic into the air. Once the balls of magic were high in the sky, they exploded into brilliant flowers of orange flame and yellow lightning.
"Let them blossom in your hearts!" Erza exclaimed, watching as her old nakama stared at Natsu's 'fireworks' in awe. "These flowers of brilliant light!"
"Let's not forget the ice as well!" Gray yelled, as he fired several spears of ice into the air. Just like Natsu, when Gray's magic reached a certain hight it burst outwards, forming large flowers made of ice, which thanks to Natsu's display seemed to glow in the night sky.
"I'll even add in a celestial spirit version!" Lucy cheered, raising Aquarius' key into the air and firing a ball of her magic. Once's Lucy's magic had reached Natsu and Gray's, it exploded into a magnificent golden light.
"To tell the truth...I would rather stay with you guys forever..." Erza said, as she stared at the beautiful display filling the night sky, tears still pouring from her eyes. "But...that would mean holding you guys back...and I don't want to do that...I would rather just wish you well on your journey..."
"That...That's not it a-all Er-chan!" Milliana struggled to say through her tears. "Y-You've got it all w-wrong!"
"Yeah, if we were around we'd just keep bringing up all those horrible memories for you!" Wally exclaimed, trying and failing to stop his own tears from falling.
"No matter where you go in this world...I will never forget any of you." Erza said, as she raised her staff into the air. "And besides...Those painful memories are what helped us reach tomorrow, and make us stronger." With tears still falling, Erza's old nakama boarded their small boat and began to sail away. "Walk tall! And I too will keep walking tall, forever onwards!" Natsu, Lucy, and Gray walked up next to Erza, joining her in seeing her old friends off. Fairy Tail's flag waved proudly from atop Erza's staff, seeming to glow because of the fireworks that filled the night sky. "As long as you don't forget this day, we will meet again! Farewell my friends!"
"You too nee-san! And Fairy Tail too!" Shô shouted, as the boat began to drift farther and farther away.
"By bye Er-chan!" Milliana exclaimed, smiling through her tears, as she energetically waved to the Fairy Tail members.
"We'll definitely meet again! That's a promise!" Wally yelled, hiding his face behind his hat.
"It's a promise." Erza whispered, as she wiped away her tears. The scarlet-haired knight managed to keep up her facade for a few moments longer, but as soon as the boat was out of sight she broke down. Erza immidiately fell to her knees, burying her face into her hands as she sobbed uncontrollably. Natsu and Lucy were by the crying knight's side instantly.
"I know it's hard to say goodbye to your friends Erza..." Natsu said sweetly, wrapping his around Erza's waist and pulling her close. The dual dragon slayer's comforting warmth completely enveloped Erza, as he rested his head against hers. "But you did the right thing. They need to find their own path in life."
"Yeah, and you will see them again someday." Lucy said, as she gently gripped Erza's trembling hand. "This goodbye isn't permanent. When you see them again, they'll have found success in whatever they set their hearts to."
"Natsu...Lucy..." Erza managed to say, locking eyes with both mages, as tears continued to stream down her cheeks. Suddenly Erza wrapped her arms around Natsu and Lucy's neck, and hugged their heads against her chest. "Thank you both...I don't know what I'd do without you two."
"You don't need to thank us Erza." Lucy said with a small smile, as she returned Erza's embrace.
"Yeah, we'll always be there for you." Natsu finished, grinning up at the scarlet-haired knight. "I just hope you'll be there for us as well."
"Of course..." Erza replied instantly, as she managed to smile through her tears. "We're family now, right?"
"I guess we shouldn't interrupt them." Gray muttered, rubbing the back of his head. The ice mage then crouched down next to Happy. "Why don't we give them some time alone Happy? We can start packing or something."
"Aye sir!" Happy cheered, as he followed Gray back to the resort.
(Same Time: Unknown Location)
"And so..." Ultear said with a content sigh, sinking further into her relaxing bubble bath. "The council will no doubt have to take responsibility for their actions. I don't believe they'll be able to operate normally for quite some time. Hell, they might end up being disbanded completely."
"Excellent work Ultear." A deep voice echoed from a nearby communication lacrima. "So...what was Jellal's fate?"
"I could care less..." Ultear replied with a smirk, running a hand over glistening skin. "As far as I know he could have died..."
"Hmmm, without ever realizing he was being manipulated by the woman he thought he was manipulating...what a disgraceful man."
"Oho don't say that." Ultear said with a smile, as she slipped out of the bathtub and wrapped a towel around her body. "I did rather enjoy the assignment...and Jellal did look oh so adorable when he was plotting his scheme." Ultear suddenly clutched a hand over her racing heart, as she recalled a certain pink-haired dragon slayer. "And of course that mission did introduce me to Natsu Dragneel...what a fascinating man. After what I witnessed the power he displayed while fighting Jellal..." Ultear bit her bottom lip to suppress a moan as a pleasurable shudder ran down her spine. "Mmmm, I have to meet him again...I have to see that strength again."
"Ultear?"
"Sorry about that, I got distracted for a moment." Ultear lied, quickly tying her hair into a ponytail.
"Whatever...But I must say, that despite you brainwashing Jellal, the plan proceeded beyond perfectly. The conflict engulfing the council...the firing of Etherion...all of it went according to plan."
"Indeed..." Ultear said with a light sigh, as she sank down onto a nearby chair. "Whilst Jellal was going on his little rampage, you were able to move about freely."
"And as a result, one of the keys to the seal is finally mine..."
"Oh congratulations!" Ultear cheered with mock enthusiasm, clapping her hands together. A smirk spread across the time mage's face, as she leaned back in the seat. "So very sorry Jellal-sama, but there was never any chance of you reviving Zeref. Actually, there is no chance of anybody bringing Zeref back from the dead. After all, Zeref was never dead in the first place. He merely lies dormant at the moment."
"That is quite true...by the way Ultear..."
"Yes, what is it?" Ultear asked, as she cocked her head slightly.
"You seem to be quite distracted as of later. Is there something on your mind?"
"Not really..." Ultear replied, a small smile spreading across her face. "I just met a very interesting man while I was working with Jellal...I've just been thinking about him quite a lot lately."
"It's that pink-haired dragon slayer from Makarov's bunch of brats, right?"
"How did you-"
"Be careful very careful Ultear, because you're treading on very dangerous ground right now. I would hate to find out you were cooperating with Fairy Tail...then I would have to eliminate you...and I would just hate to do that."
"Don't worry, I have no intention of helping those nuisances." Ultear said, waving she waved her hand dismissively. "That Natsu Dragneel just happened to catch my eye. There's nothing else to it."
"Good, because I would hate to have to question your allegiance...Well we'll have to continue this another time, I must go."
"Bye bye." Ultear said with a forced smile, as she waved to the lacrima crystal. Once the communication had been cut a from spread across Ultear's face. "Tch, stupid old man...who does he think he is questioning my loyalties like that?" Ultear sighed as she gazed up at the bathroom's ceiling. "I'm not gonna stop observing Natsu...but I will have to be more cautious from now on."
(The Next Morning: Magnolia Town)
"Man it feels to be good back home after that ordeal." Gray said, shoving his hands into his pockets. "Our nice vacation turned into a real shit show."
"Oh it wasn't all bad." Lucy said, as she glanced at Natsu and Erza out of the corner of her eye. The scarlet-haired knight was currently hugging Natsu's arm in between her impressive bust, and was resting her head against his shoulder. The two mages had been almost inseparable on the trip back to Magnolia, always touching each other in some way. Lucy had to admit that she was slightly upset that she didn't get to really spend any time with Natsu, but she knew that Erza deserved her time with the dragon slayer after everything they had been through. Although Lucy now knew that she wouldn't be the only one in Natsu's heart, she couldn't be happier for the new lovers. A soft smile spread across Lucy's face as she gazed at Natsu and Erza. "There was something good that came out of this trip."
"Huh? What are you-" Gray stopped when he saw where Lucy was looking. Despite their constant fighting and bickering, Gray did have to admit that he was happy for Natsu. He knew how much the dragon slayer loved Erza, and he could see that they were truly happy together. Although Gray did have his doubts about the whole being with multiple girls thing, he knew that if there was anyone who could pull it off it was Natsu. "Yeah, I guess something good did happen."
"Guys! Look ahead!" Happy exclaimed, frantically pointing towards something in front of them. "The guild! It's...it's..."
"What a surprise..." Erza breathed out, as she stared at the restored building before them.
"Holy shit!" Natsu yelled, gazing the brand new, massive guild hall right before his eyes. "They finished it already?!"
"It's huge..." Lucy breathed out, as she marveled at the towering guild hall.
"Well...let's head inside." Gray said, leading the group inside the building.
(Inside Fairy Tail's Guild Hall)
Walking into guild hall, the Fairy Tail mages were met with a flurry of cheers and greetings from their fellow guild members. Natsu and the others simply stared in awe at the completely redesigned building, the dragon slayer taken aback by all the radical changes.
"Hey! Welcome back you guys!"
"Did you enjoy your vacation!?"
"Bet you all were surprised! This is our brand new guild!"
"Erza! What's up with your hair?!"
"What's up Natsu!? You lost for words!?"
"But...I mean...everything is just...so different!" Natsu replied, staring dumbfounded at the massive open seating area in front of him. "It's completely changed!"
"Well yeah, we did totally rebuild the entire thing from scratch."
"So...we've got an open air cafe now?" Gray asked no one in particular, as some guild members waved at him from a nearby table.
"What?! There's even a souvenir shop by the entrance!?" Lucy exclaimed, running over to the small store.
"Welcome!" Max cheered, as he waved everyone over. "Oh hey, it's you guy...welcome back!"
"Oh, you're running the shop Max." Erza said, looking at all the various knick knacks Max was selling. "You've got quite the selection here."
"Thanks." Max said with a grin, as he rested his fists on his hips. "We've got Fairy Tail t-shirts, wrist bands, mugs, towels and even special lacrima crystals!" Max's grin widened as he reached underneath the counter and pulled out several new trinkets. "But our most popular items are definitely these Fairy Tail mage figurines! They're 3000 jewels a pop!"
"Holy shit!" Natsu exclaimed with a childlike smile, grabbing a figure of himself. "Luce! Erza! I have my own fucking action figure! This is so cool!"
"That's great Natsu." Lucy said with a sweatdrop, as she smiled awkwardly.
"Lucy! Lucy!" Happy cheered, holding up a figurine of the blonde celestial spirit mage. "There's even a figure of you!"
"WHAT?!" Lucy yelled, as she snatched the small toy. "Don't just go making stuff like this without my permission! It's so embarrassing..." A light blush spread across Lucy's face as she inspect the figure. "Well...I guess they did do a good job...it's really well crafted..." Lucy quirked an eyebrow when she spotted a small button on the base of the figure. "Huh, what's this do?" When Lucy pressed the button, her eyes shot open when all the figurine's clothing suddenly popped off. "Wh-What the hell is this?!"
"All the clothing is removable, naturally." Max said with a smirk.
"KYAAA!" Lucy screamed, hiding her neon red face in her hands.
"Max?" Natsu asked in a menacing tone, as the figure he was holding melted in his hand.
"Yeah Nat-" Max stopped dead in his tracks when he saw the enraged look in Natsu's eyes. A shiver ran down Max's spine, as Natsu seemed to loom over him. "W-What is it N-Natsu?"
"You said the clothes are removable on the Lucy figures...does that apply for the Erza and Mira ones too?" Natsu asked, tightly gripping the front of Max's shirt and pulling him close. "Because if they are, we're gonna have a real problem."
"N-Now that you mention it..." Max said in a panic, as he rushed to grab all the Lucy, Erza, and Mirajane figures that he had. "I just remembered that all these figures are defective! Yeah that's it! Of course their clothes are supposed to stay on! Stupid manufacturing error! I'll go sort this out right now!" Loading all the figures into a box, Max bolted out of the guild as fast as he could.
"I better not see anything like that again." Natsu growled, crossing his arms over his chest in irritation.
"You didn't have to do that Natsu." Lucy lightly scolded, before a small smile spread across her face. After making sure that no one was looking, Lucy placed a quick kiss on Natsu's cheek. "But thank you for looking out for me."
"I just couldn't stand the thought of some perv ogling you...even if it's just a figure." Natsu muttered, his cheeks turning slightly pink. "You and Erza are my girls after all..."
"Oh you're so cute when you're like this." Lucy teased, as she discreetly gave Natsu's hand a reassuring squeeze. "But you don't have to worry about that...Erza and I love you with all our hearts."
"Hm? Oh, you guys are finally back!" Cana cheered with a wide grin, waving the returning mages over. "You've gotta check this out!" When Natsu and the others walked over, they were shocked to see the massive, redesigned main room.
"Whoa! It's amazing!" Lucy exclaimed, clapping her hands together as she gazed at dozens of packed tables in front of her. "It's completely new!"
"Yes, it's quite impressive." Erza said, as she nodded her head in agreement.
"Oi, what's up Natsu?" Gray asked, noticing that the dragon slayer appeared to be in a rather sullen mood.
"Tch, it's not like it used to be..." Natsu muttered in response, as he hid most of his face behind his scarf. "Everything is all different."
"And that's not the only new thing we've got!" Cana said, pointing towards a door besides the bar. "Out we've got a pool!" The smirking brunette then gestured to a set of stairs leading down below the guild's main room. "Downstairs there's a game room!" Cana then pointed towards the guild's second floor. "But perhaps the biggest change of all...is the second floor! Anybody is allowed up there now!"
"Wah! We can finally go up on the second floor now?!" Lucy exclaimed, as she clasped her hands together.
"You got it!" Cana replied with a wink.
"So you brats are finally back?" Everyone turned to see Makarov walking towards them. However, they weren't expecting to see the second person standing beside Fairy Tail's master. With a large grin, Makarov gestured to the blue-haired woman. "This is our newest Juvia. Cute, ain't she?"
"It's great to see you all again!" Juvia said with a bright smile. "Especially Natsu and Gray-sama." The blue-haired water mage's appearance had changed quite drastically since Natsu and the others had last seen her. Juvia now wore a much more revealing blue and white dress that went down to her knees. She also white boots and gloves with blue trimming. But the biggest change to Juvia's appearance had to be her hair. She still wore a hat atop her hear, which was also new, but her hair was now radically shorter, barely reaching down to her shoulders now.
"HAHA! So you really did join our guild!?" Gray laughed, rubbing the back of his head. "Great, I have a feeling things are gonna get a lot more annoying around here now."
"S-So..." Juvia muttered, as she suddenly became very flustered and embarrassed. "H-How does J-Juvia look?"
"Huh?" Gray said, quirking an eyebrow in confusion. "You look fine I guess." The ice mage's response caused Juvia to deflate instantly, her shoulders sagging as she hung her head. Seeing Juvia upset caused Natsu to frown in annoyance, as he walked over and slapped Gray upside the head. "Ow! What the hell was that for flame brain!?"
"I think you look beautiful Juvia." Natsu said, as he completely ignored the ice mage. The dual dragon slayer strolled over and gently ran his fingers through Juvia's ocean blue locks. "That's a really cute dress and I love what you did with your hair."
"R-Really?" Juvia squeaked out, a bright blush spreading across her face as she began to fidget slightly. "You really think Juvia looks pretty?"
"Of course!" Natsu exclaimed with a toothy grin, as he rested his fists on his hips. "Although I personally prefer your hair longer, but you still looks great with it short."
"So Natsu prefers Juvia's hair longer..." Juvia thought, winding a few ocean blue locks around her finger. "Maybe Juvia will grow it out again soon..."
"Oh Juvia, I missed my chance when we were back at the resort..." Erza said, as she walked up to the water mage. "But thank you for all your help back in the Tower of Heaven. Lucy told me that she would've been a goner without you."
"That's not true, Lucy-san is a very capable mage and could have handled herself...but Juvia is happy to hear that she was helpful." Juvia said, clutching a hand over her heart. "Besides Juvia is the one who should be thanking all of you! Juvia will do her best to help Fairy Tail!"
"That's great to hear Juvia!" Lucy cheered with a bright smile.
"Oi flame brain, you still have answered me!" Gray yelled, as he grabbed ahold of the dragon slayer's shoulder. "Why the hell did you hit me?!"
"God and people think I'm dense." Natsu muttered, shaking his head in disappointment. The dragon slayer then turned to Gray with eyes full of irritation. "Juvia obviously wanted you to compliment her you idiot, and she was really let down when you didn't."
"Why do care if compliment Juvia or not?" Gray asked, as he quirked an eyebrow.
"Because I hate seeing seeing that sad look on Juvia's face and I want her to be happy." Natsu said, before he got right in Gray's face. "You better watch yourself around Juvia ice princess, because if you ever make her cry I won't forgive you." The dual dragon slayer locked eyes with Gray for several moments, his eyes full of fire. Gray knew that Natsu wasn't going to back down, and the ice mage wasn't really looking for an argument right now, so he decided to keep his mouth shut. After several more moments Natsu spun around and walked back over to Lucy and the others.
"Geez, what's his problem?" Gray asked himself, rubbing the back of his head as she slowly followed behind Natsu.
"Stupid Gray, why doesn't realize what a great girl Juvia is?" Natsu thought, as he tightly balled his fists, felling an ache in his chest. "I swear if he ever hurts her..."
"Remember that you must be patient."
"You cannot force your feelings upon the blue-haired water mage."
"You will win her over in due time."
"Good things come to those who wait."
"Tch, I know." Natsu thought, a small frown forming on his face. "Doesn't mean I have to like it though."
"Well I'm happy to see that you are all getting along well with Juvia." Makarov said, as he nodded his head, clasping his hands behind his back. "Please make sure she feels welcome here...Oh! I almost forgot, there's one more new member I'd like you to meet." Makarov turned to a rather imposing figure with their back to them. "Oi! Get over here and introduce yourself!"
"Another new member?" Erza asked, quirking an eyebrow. "Well isn't this a surprise." However, Erza and everyone else's eyes widened when the figure spun around in their seat, revealing the iron dragon slayer Gajeel. "W-What?!"
"You're kidding me right!?" Gray exclaimed, as he slid into a fighting stance. "Master! This has to be some kind of joke right?!"
"Wait! Juvia met up with Gajeel-kun on her way here and brought him with her!" Juvia yelled, trying her best to diffuse the tension that had risen in the room.
"Juvia is one thing...but this guy is the one who destroyed our guild." Erza said in a low tone, her eyes narrowing dangerously. "That can't be forgiven."
"Now, now brats..." Makarov said, as he walked in between Erza and Gajeel. "He was only acting upon Jose's orders back then, he had no real choice. You know the old saying, yesterday's enemies are today's friends."
"I-I d-don't really m-mind." Levy said in a shaky voice, poking her out from behind a pillar. The petite blue-haired girl was flanked on both sides by Jet and Droy; both men had menacing looks as they glared at Gajeel.
"Levy-chan..." Lucy muttered, as she discreetly released a light sigh. "She still must be pretty shaken up over what happened."
The tension between the Fairy Tail mages and Gajeel didn't appear to be fading anytime soon; all of them ready to attack at a moments notice. However, everything seemed to stop when Natsu made his way over to Gajeel. The dual dragon slayer stopped right in front of Gajeel and locked eyes with the menacing man. Everyone held their breath as Natsu continued to hold the iron dragon slayer's gaze.
"N-Natsu please don't fight with Gajeel-kun." Juvia said meekly, walking over to the pink-haired dragon slayer. "Juvia is the one-" Natsu cut off the water mage by holding out his hand.
Everyone expected Natsu to try and punch Gajeel, or at least yell at him, but no one was prepared for what the pink-haired dragon slayer actually did. With a toothy grin, Natsu extended his hand out to Gajeel. "Looks like you took my advise after all! Welcome to Fairy Tail man!"
"H-Huh?" Gajeel said, completely taken aback by the pink-haired dragon slayer's words. "What are you trying to pull Salamander?"
"I'm not trying to pull anything, I'm just happy there's another dragon slayer in the guild." Natsu said, suddenly grabbing ahold of Gajeel's hand and shaking it. "You remember what I said after we fought? Sure, I can't really forgive you for hurting Luce and my nakama, but I don't hate you Gajeel. You didn't have to say anything, because I figured it out while we were fighting. You're actually a pretty good guy, but you were being manipulated by that bastard Jose. Plus you gave me the toughest fight in my entire life, so you've earned my respect." The iron dragon slayer was so stunned by Natsu's actions that he simply stared at the dual dragon slayer in shock. "I would actually like us to be friends. We dragon slayers need to stick together, ya know?"
"Natsu...thank you for accepting Gajeel-kun." Juvia thought, as she felt tears sting the corners of her eyes.
"Tch, don't think you can win me over with your sweet words." Gajeel said in irritated tone, which Natsu could tell was fake, as he crossed his arms over his chest. "I didn't join this guild because you wanted me too. I needed work, that's all there is to it. Any guild would have sufficed."
"We'll see about that." Natsu said, grin never leaving his face. "Hey, maybe we could go on a job together sometime. I have a feeling we'd make a really kickass team."
"Forget it, there's no way I'm ever working with you." Gajeel said, as he turned around and sat back in his seat.
"Why the hell did you even bring the bastard here?" Gray asked in an annoyed tone, slightly glaring at Juvia. "He'll be nothing but trouble."
"Well Gajeel-kun is always by himself and he seemed so lonely, Juvia simply couldn't bear to leave him behind." Juvia replied, as she fidgeted underneath Gray's piercing gaze. "I...I mean it's not Juvia likes him or anything."
"Whatever, not like I really care anyways." Gray said, shoving his hands in his pockets and walking away.
"It is the duty of an old man like myself to guide young children who have lost their way back onto the right path." Makarov said, as he stroked his chin. "Like Natsu said, Gajeel isn't a bad man at heart...at least I think so."
"If it's your decision Master...and Natsu says he's okay...then I will support it." Erza said, crossing her arms underneath her impressive bust. "But I still think we should keep an eye on him for a while. I trust Natsu's judgement, but I can't help but feel a little uneasy."
"Don't worry Erza, I'll make sure he doesn't try anything suspicious." Makarov said, as he nodded his head.
"Ugh, I'm glad that Juvia and Gajeel joined the guild, but..." Natsu muttered, gazing at all new things around him. "I don't know about this new guild...it just doesn't feel right for some reason..."
"Would you relax already lover boy!" Cana cheered with a grin, as she ushered Natsu towards a table. "The main event is about to start!"
"Main event?" Natsu parroted, quirking an eyebrow as he took a seat. "What are you talking about Cana?"
"Just watch." Cana said, as she sat on top of the table next to Natsu. Suddenly all the lights in the guild went out, plunging the guild hall into darkness. Natsu felt a pleasurable shiver run down his spine when he felt Cana whisper into his ear in a sultry voice. "I'm sure this show will cheer you up." Just then several spotlights lit up, shining their light upon a stage. When the curtain drew back, Natsu's eyes slowly widened when he saw Mirajane in a beautiful leopard print dress, sitting on stool with a guitar in her hands.
"Mira..." Natsu breathed out, in awe of the barmaid's beauty. "She looks stunning."
"I didn't Mira could sing." Lucy said, as she turned to Natsu and Erza.
"Mirajane has a beautiful singing voice." Erza said, taking a bite of her strawberry cake. "I guarantee it will send shivers down your spine."
"WOOO! Mira-cha!"
"This is what we've been waiting for!"
"Yeah Mira-chan!"
"This song is dedicated to all of our mages that are out on mission and those who have recently returned." Mirajane said with a wink, before she blew a kiss, which was aimed directly at Natsu. Taking a calming breath, Mirajane began to strum her guitar, filling the air with a soothing melody. "I gently touch the stool where you used to sit...alone once more today with the shadows...I look up to the vast sky and whisper a prayer~ You're out there somewhere, staring up at this vast sky as well~ I bear with tears, even as I tremble...even when the darkness threatens to swallow me whole~"
"You were right Erza." Lucy said, as she gazed down at her eyes. "I've totally got goosebumps right now. Mira's voice is simply beautiful. What do you think Nat-" Lucy stopped when she saw the look on Natsu's face. The pink-haired dragon slayer had a goofy smile on his face, seemingly entranced by Mirajane's song. Lucy smiled at her lover, before she turned her focus back to Mirajane's performance. "I guess that answers my question."
"Don't you forget~ There will always be~ A place for you~ To call home~" Mirajane sang with a soft smile, locking eyes with Natsu from across the guild hall. "And people you love waiting there~ For you~"
"You're the best Mira-chan!"
"Alright! Keep it going!"
"We love you Mira-chan!"
"I could listen to Mira sing all day..." Natsu said, his smile widening as he rested his head on his hand. As the pink-haired dragon slayer got lost in Mirajane's song, her didn't notice a devious smile spread across Gajeel's face.
"Geehee." Gajeel laughed, slamming his foot down on top of Natsu's.
"OWWWW! God damn it!" Natsu roared, as he shot out of his seat, standing on top of the table. The pink-haired dragon slayer immidiately fiercely glared at Gajeel. "What the fuck was that for Gajeel!? You did that on purpose ya bastard! Do you have problem with me enjoying Mira's song or something?!"
"Oi! Shut the hell up you two!" Some random guild members yelled, as they threw their beer mugs at Natsu and Gajeel. The pink-haired dragon slayer was so caught up in yelling at Gajeel that he didn't notice the metal beer mugs flying towards him. Both dragon slayers were hit by the mugs, causing their heads to snap back.
"Natsu! Are you okay?!" Lucy exclaimed, rushing over to her lover's side. But her worries were for nothing, because Natsu was back on his feet in seconds.
"Alright! Which one of you bastards threw that?!" Natsu yelled, flipping over the table he had been sitting at, which in turn sent Cana and Juvia tumbling to the floor. "Oh shit! Sorry Cana, Juvia!"
"It's fine Natsu, you didn't hurt Juvia." Juvia said, as she got back onto her feet.
"Tch, speak for yourself. I fell right on my ass." Cana cursed, rubbing her sore behind. However, the lush brunette's eyes shot open in anger when she saw that her beer had spilled all over the floor. "Damn it Natsu! You made me spill my drink! You owe me now!"
"I'll buy you a drink some other time Cana!" Natsu exclaimed, as he dodged a chair that had been hurled at him by Gajeel. "Just get down!" Cana cocked her head in confusion for a moment, before she noticed a bottle flying towards her head. The brunette card mage squeaked in surprise, diving for cover behind an overturned table.
"For fucks sake Natsu!" Gray shouted, roughly standing up from his seat, bumping into Erza in the process. The scarlet-haired knight watched in horror as her cake fell onto the floor. "Why do you always have to start shit like this!"
"M-My strawberry cake..." Erza whimpered, as she reached for the delicious sweets. She screamed in shock when Elfman suddenly trampled her piece of cake. "My...cake..."
"Oh shit..." Natsu breathed out, watching as Erza hung her head, her shoulder beginning to shake. Someone had fucked with Erza's cake, and knew what was about to happen. "Lucy, Juvia! Get down!" Grabbing both girls' hands, Natsu dove behind the table Cana was using as cover.
"Natsu why did-"
"Just stay down!" Natsu exclaimed, as he cowered behind the table. There is only time that Natsu truly fears Erza, and that's when someone gets between her and strawberry cake. "Erza's about to go on a rampage!"
"Damn it you guys!" Elfman yelled, punching a random guild member in the face. "Shut the hell up and listen to nee-chan's song!"
"Shut the fuck up Elfman!" Erza roared in fury, as she hit Elfman in the face with a powerful roundhouse kick, sending him flying across the guild hall. Equipping two swords, Erza chased after the massive man, destroying everything that stood in her path. "I'm not done with you Elfman!" The fiery redhead suddenly turned her fierce gaze to Gray, who was currently fighting with some other guild members. When the ice mage met Erza's eyes, he nearly pissed his pants in terror. Erza growled and pointed her blade at Gray. "Once I'm done with Elfman, I'm coming for you Gray!"
"Oh shit!" Gray exclaimed, leaping out of the brawl he was currently in, and making a beeline for the door. However, he came to a screeching halt when a sword impaled in the wall right next to his head. Slowly turning his head, Gray froze in horror when he saw Erza holding up an unconscious Elfman.
"Where do you think you're going Gray!?" Erza roared, as she dropped Elfman's unconscious form to the ground. The scarlet-haired knight cracked her knuckles as she stalked towards Gray. "Just be a good boy and accept your punishment."
"Gray-sama!" Juvia exclaimed, jumping to her feet to go help the ice mage. But she was stopped when someone grabbed her hand. Turning her head, Juvia saw that it was Natsu who had stopped her. The pink-haired dragon slayer's hand tightly held her wrist, as he slowly shook his head.
"Trust me Juvia, you do not want to get involved with that." Natsu said, as he pulled the girl back behind the table. A sudden piercing scream from Gray caused a shiver to run down Juvia's spine. "See? It's best you just let Erza have her way."
"J-Juvia guesses you're right..." Juvia said, pulling her hat down further onto her head, seemingly trying to hide behind it.
"*Sigh* Guess it's no time for a ballad, eh?" Mirajane said with a soft smile, as she suddenly tore off her leopard print dress, revealing a black tube-top and miniskirt underneath. With a wicked grin, that resembled her former personality, Mirajane let out a wailing guitar riff. "Let's rock the house down then!"
"I guess this place really hasn't changed at all..." Lucy said with a warm smile, gently grabbing ahold of Natsu's hand.
"Yeah...I guess I was wrong to worry." Natsu said, as he gave Lucy's hand a quick squeeze. "But I'm glad this place hasn't changed...because that's what makes it Fairy Tail!"
"Why...Why couldn't just hold off for one day..." Makarov muttered, tightly balling his fists. "You damn brats..." Suddenly Makarov wailed, as tears began to pour from his eyes. "Tomorrow is the day the reporter is supposed to come and collect data on the guild! Why couldn't you all wait until he was gone!?" With low, rumbling growl, Makarov grew into his giant form. "Cut it out you ingrates! Clean this place up now!"
"Oh don't go freaking out on us gramps!" Natsu laughed, as a grin spread across his face. "We're all just letting off some steam!"
"Uh, Natsu..." A new voice caused Natsu to whip his head back around. He was quite surprised to see that Levy was standing next to him. Now it's not that Natsu didn't like Levy, in fact he had to admit he found her rather cute, it's just that they didn't really interact much. Which made it quite surprising to Natsu, that she wanted to talk to him out of the blue. The petite bluenette appeared to be rather nervous, as she rubbed her arm. "Can I talk to you for a minute?"
"Sure Levy, what do need?" Natsu replied, as he stood back up onto his feet, which caused his him to almost tower over the girl.
"Well you've been doing so much for the guild the past few days...and you fought for me and rest of Team Shadow Gear when Phantom Lord attacked...and I just wanted to say..." Levy said with a bright blush across her face, shocking everyone in the guild when she suddenly leaned forward and gave Natsu a quick kiss on the cheek. "Thanks for being there for us." Her blush darkening several shades, Levy darted out of the guild.
"Did Levy just..." Lucy asked in disbelief.
"Yes, I think she did." Erza said, her eyes wide in surprise.
"Damn it, she beat me to him." Cana muttered underneath her breath, as she took a long swig of her new beer. "I guess I'll have to wait for my chance."
"W-What was that about..." Natsu said with a light blush, touching the spot on his cheek where Levy had kissed him. "She...She didn't have to do that." As Natsu stood in stunned silence, he noticed something out of the corner of his eye. Glaring at him from across the guild was Gajeel. The iron dragon slayer had a look jealousy in his piercing eyes, as gripped the railing in front of him so hard that it snapped. A smirk spread across Natsu's face, as he locked eyes with Gajeel. "Now this is interesting."
And done! Now before any of you jump the gun, no Levy won't be joining Natsu's harem. As much as I would love to add her, I would rather still pair her with Gajeel. I love Gajeevy and I don't want to piss off any Gajeevy fans reading this fic, I've already pissed Gruvia shippers off enough. Levy was simply showing Natsu her appreciation for everything he's done for her and the guild. Her actions had no romantic motives behind it. However, that scene did let Natsu know something important about Gajeel, and he will be sure to confront him about it next chapter. The next chapter will pick up immediately where this one left off in the magna. Remember to follow/favorite if you enjoyed, PLEASE REVIEW (I NEED YOUR FEEDBACK!), PM me any ideas you have for my fics, and check my profile and my other fics if you haven't already. I'll try to have the next chapter out as soon as possible. So until next time, I'm outta here!