A/N : Chapter 19 it is ! Already :o
it's time for Haru to get his plan into action. So...
Enjoy !
I rushed back down to the guild, slamming the doors open. "I need everyone, please come with me, this can work!" I yelled, urgency vibrating in my voice.
A few people ran towards me, including Gray. "Relax, man, what's this about?"
"We need magic, lots of magic! It's liquid... I mean, we need to infuse it, but I need everyone. It's for Wendy! I mean, Porlyusica, she needs it for Wendy!" I tried explaining, but my words were jumbled, earning only confused looks from everyone. Mira came closer, placing her hand on my cheek.
"Hey, hey, hey, Haru, relax. Nobody understood a single thing, okay? Breathe, and explain what you know," she said slowly, trying to calm me down.
I breathed in and out, feeling my shoulders untense slightly. I gave Mira a thankful look before grabbing Gray by the shoulders. "Gray, I need you to gather everyone you can, anyone with magical powers. Can you do that?"
Gray looked at me, his eyes steady. "I'm on it," he said, before leaving. I watched him with surprise. "You don't want to know more?" I asked.
He looked over his shoulder and grinned. "Nah, if you need it, I'll do it. I trust you," he added before rushing out.
I managed a slight smile, turning toward the entire guild. "I talked with Porlyusica. We've got a chance to heal Wendy, but we need a shit ton of magic. We need liquid magic," I started, trailing off as I moved to the center of the guild. "I need everyone to—" I stopped, the words catching in my throat. I started thinking about the recent events, about taking the lead the same way I had before. I couldn't let my emotions take over again. I breathed out, once again. "I'm sorry. Who would like to help me save Wen—" I began, but was cut off by the entire guild roaring and cheering.
"Of course we'll help! A real man never gives up!" shouted Elfman.
"I'm all fired up!" roared Natsu.
"Count on us, Haru," nodded Erza.
"Geehee," laughed Gajeel.
"Juvia will help Haru and Wendy," declared Juvia.
"We'll help as well!" said Lucy, grabbing Mira by one shoulder.
I blinked back tears. "Thanks, guys..."
Makarov, hidden from my sight, esquissed a faint smile.
"Waren, can you start a communication with Gray?" I asked, the urgency clear in my thoughts.
"Sure thing, Haru," Waren replied.
"Gray?" I called out mentally.
"Yeah, man. What's the meeting spot? I've got a bunch of people with me," he replied.
"Perfect. Meet up at Porlyusica's. We're all on our way," I said, before increasing my pace, the entire guild following me.
When we arrived, Porlyusica had already prepared the machine. It wasn't anything extravagant, just a classic alembic setup. A head-sized glass balloon was suspended above a tiny glass reservoir.
"And... what are we supposed to do with that?" asked Natsu, scratching his head.
Porlyusica sighed, clearly frustrated. "Just focus and pour your magic into the top container. If enough magic is used, it will liquefy and create liquid magic."
At her words, everyone took their places around the machine. Gray had found a few mages from the surrounding villages, all willing to help.
"Remember," added Porlyusica, "we only need a single drop."
We all nodded, setting our arms in front of us, open palms aiming for the glass container. We were gathered outside, the open sky above us as a testament to the enormity of the task ahead. The air was filled with tension and anticipation as we prepared to channel our magic.
Natsu, Gray, Erza, Lucy, Gajeel, and the others formed a circle around the apparatus, their expressions a mix of determination and focus. Each of us extended our hands, ready to pour our magical energy into the container.
"Alright, everyone, concentrate," I said, trying to keep my voice steady. "Focus on your magic. We need to synchronize."
We closed our eyes, the world around us fading as we tapped into our magical reserves. The air around us began to hum with energy, the combined power of our guild palpable. I could feel the familiar surge of wind and lightning within me, ready to be directed.
Minutes ticked by, and despite our best efforts, the magic seemed to waver, dissipating before it could liquefy. Frustration gnawed at the edges of my concentration, but I pushed it down, focusing on Wendy's face, on why we were doing this.
Porlyusica's voice cut through the silence. "You need to align your energies. Right now, you're all working separately. Try to connect your magic with each other's."
We adjusted our stances, moving closer to one another, our hands almost touching. I could feel the subtle shift as our individual magics began to blend, creating a more cohesive force.
"That's it," Porlyusica encouraged. "Keep going."
The hum of magic grew louder, more intense. Sweat trickled down my face as I poured everything I had into the effort. Around me, I could sense the strain on my friends.
The glow from the container intensified, the magic swirling and bubbling inside it. We held our breath, pushing harder, willing it to transform into the liquid we needed. But again, the energy wavered, unable to make that final leap.
The exhaustion was starting to take its toll. I opened my eyes, looking around at my friends, seeing the same fatigue mirrored on their faces.
Porlyusica stepped forward, her expression unreadable. "You're close. Very close. Start once more."
We nodded, each of us taking a deep breath, readying ourselves for another attempt. The air around us seemed to crackle with determination as we raised our hands again, focusing our magic on the container.
"Come on, Natsu. You can do this," Natsu muttered to himself, flames flickering from his palms.
Gray's eyes narrowed in concentration. "For Wendy. Just think of Wendy," he whispered, icy energy swirling around him.
Erza's grip tightened on her sword, her eyes blazing with resolve. "We must succeed," she said, her magic shimmering around her.
Gajeel's jaw set in determination. "I won't let you down, Wendy," he growled, iron magic crackling through the air.
Levy's eyes sparkled with focus. "Come on, everyone!" she said, her script magic intertwining with the others.
The magic grew more intense, each of us pushing beyond our limits, our combined power resonating in the air. The glow from the container grew blinding, the energy inside swirling violently.
But again, the strain was too much. I could feel my strength waning, my knees threatening to buckle. "Come on... just a little more," I whispered, my voice trembling with effort.
"We can't give up now," Juvia said through gritted teeth, her magic flickering.
Natsu's flames began to waver. "Damn it! We have to do this!"
Just when it seemed we were about to collapse, a powerful, overwhelming presence washed over us. I looked up to see Makarov stepping forward, his eyes glowing with fierce determination, his small frame exuding a monumental aura of power.
"How can a father remain still when his children are fighting with so much force..." he declared, raising his hands. A brilliant, golden light enveloped him, radiating outwards and merging with our magic, the force of it almost palpable in the air.
Instantly, I felt a surge of energy, reinvigorating my exhausted body. The others around me straightened, their resolve renewed by Makarov's immense power.
"We can do this," I said, my voice stronger.
The magic grew to a deafening roar, the air vibrating with our combined strength. The container glowed brighter than ever, the energy inside stabilizing and transforming. The light was blinding, but we held our focus, pouring every ounce of magic we had left into the effort.
And then, everything stopped. We all collapsed to the ground, completely exhausted from the long and intense effort. All eyes turned to the machine. The magic in the container was still there, but there was no sign of a single drop of liquid magic.
"How... Please tell me how!" I roared in frustration. But without getting any answers, a small drop slowly formed and fell into the bottom container.
For a moment, there was stunned silence. Then, cheers resonated around me, people hugging and crying in relief and joy. We did it. We got liquid magic.
Gray didn't hesitate to throw his arm around my shoulder. "Gotta say, that was a crazy plan!" he said, laughing.
Natsu, still on the ground, punched the air with a triumphant shout. "We did it! We actually did it!"
Erza, her usually stoic face softened with a rare smile, nodded in approval. "Our combined strength made it possible. Well done, everyone."
Lucy wiped away tears of joy, her celestial spirits appearing around her, celebrating alongside her.
Levy hugged Gajeel tightly, her eyes sparkling with pride. "You were amazing, Gajeel."
Gajeel, blushing slightly, grumbled, "Yeah, yeah. You were pretty good too, Shrimp."
Juvia, tears streaming down her face, clung to Gray. "Juvia is so happy! We did it, Gray-sama!"
Gray patted her back, a genuine smile on his face. "Yeah, Juvia. We did."
I walked towards Porlyusica. "Is this all we needed ?" I asked, hoping nothing else was missing.
"Yes. The potion will be ready within an hour." she answered, turning away and heading for her hut.
My eyes glowed, and a perfect smile finally appeared on my face. This was going to work, I said to myself.
The waiting was pure torture. Nobody had any news. We were all desperately waiting in front of the small hut for Porlyusica to come out with something.
Some members were taking a quick nap, exhausted from all the magic they had given out. Natsu was lying on Lucy's lap, snoring like a freight train. Gray was sitting down, with Juvia sticking to his arm. Erza was talking with Makarov, and Mira was giving out fresh drinks to everyone.
I was impatiently waiting for this hour to end, my gaze fixed on the door. "Here," a voice said, handing me a bottle of water.
"Oh, thanks, Mira," I said, taking it and gulping it down. I was tired. I really could take a nap, hell, a whole night's sleep right now. But once that potion, or medicine, or whatever it was, would be ready, I would rush down and give it to Wendy.
After what felt like years, the door finally opened. Porlyusica came out, a small bottle in her hands. "It's ready," she announced. However, nobody stepped forward to take it.
"Haru," Makarov called out. "It's your responsibility. Take it," he added, his voice firm and commanding.
I gulped. "Y-yes." I took a few steps, slowly reaching out to take the bottle from her hands. I was so freaking scared. Scared about a bottle. But this bottle could also mean our friend's health. Sweat was rolling down my neck as I turned back around. "We can go," I said, trying to sound confident.
Everyone began to stir, the exhaustion momentarily forgotten. Natsu woke up with a start, rubbing his eyes as Lucy helped him to his feet. Erza and Makarov ceased their conversation, all eyes turning to me.
I lifted my head, gathering confidence. "Let's go. Wendy is waiting," I announced before taking the first steps toward the guild. The sun had already set, casting long shadows that made it harder to navigate. Each step was taken with the utmost care, my grip on the vial firm but gentle, as if the slightest misstep could shatter our hopes along with the glass.
The cool night air was filled with a quiet tension, the kind that buzzed just beneath the surface. Every breath I took was a reminder of the responsibility I carried in my hands.
"Careful, Haru," Mira whispered, walking close beside me.
"Don't worry, I've got it," I replied, trying to sound more confident than I felt.
Once we arrived, I passed through the doors, letting out a sigh of relief that we'd made it without any problems. But I didn't slack, and I paced directly to the infirmary. I was the first to enter, kneeling once more next to Wendy. She looked asleep.
"Wen, hey, wake up, beautiful," I whispered. She stirred a little, before slowly half-opening her eyes. "Hey, Haru..."
"I've got your medicine. Do you feel like you can take it now?" I asked. At my words, she tried slowly getting up but ended up struggling. I nodded to Mira behind me, and she immediately helped Wendy into a sitting position.
"Good job, Wendy, you're very strong," I said, remembering what Porlyusica told me. "This medicine should work. However, if you give it to her right now, she's gonna have an awful night. And I'm not kidding."
Those words kept fighting against my will to pour the medicine into Wendy's mouth. But I had to.
"Ready, Wen? Just drink it in one go, okay?" I said, before approaching the small vial to her lips. She managed to pull her head back, downing the entire container.
"Good girl, you were perfect," I said, stroking her hair. "Now, get some rest." I helped her lie down, turning towards the others and nodding, signaling that she took it without any issues.
The tension in the room eased, replaced with a hopeful silence. Everyone watched Wendy with bated breath, waiting for any sign of improvement. Mira squeezed my shoulder gently, offering a reassuring smile.
"You did great, Haru," she whispered.
I nodded, still watching Wendy as she drifted back into a fitful sleep. The night would be hard, but she was strong, and we were all here for her. For now, that had to be enough.
Half an hour passed without Wendy waking up. A few people bid farewell, heading off to get some well-deserved rest. However, some couldn't even think about sleeping right now. Gray, Natsu, Erza, and Mira sat at a table, having a drink and talking. Still, it didn't sound as cheerful as it used to be. Makarov was sitting on the counter, eyes closed.
And me, well... I still wasn't allowed anything related to the guild while Wendy wasn't healed. So I was lounging on the roof, waiting. And I hated it. Being separated from everyone. I hated it more than anything.
But before I could dwell on it any longer, a painful scream came from the infirmary. Without hesitation, I zapped down and into the guild, passing the others in the blink of an eye.
"Wendy!" I yelled, running to her. I grabbed her, trying to calm her, but it just wasn't an option. She was writhing and twisting her body in pain, into positions I couldn't even imagine possible. It was a real horror scene. I had no clue what to do, no idea how to calm her down. I was panicking.
The others burst into the room behind me, their faces mirroring the same fear and helplessness I felt. Wendy was in atrocious pain, and we couldn't do anything.
"Lucy, please summon Lyra!" I asked desperately. Lucy nodded quickly and summoned her celestial spirit, Lyra, asking her to sing a relaxing song.
I had no idea what I was doing, just blurting out everything that came to mind. Suddenly, I realized. "I know!" I exclaimed, before zapping out of the room. In less than a minute, I was back, holding Carla in my arms. She was just waking up.
"Carla, please, we need you right now," I urged.
She opened her eyes, taking in the chaotic scene before her. "Wh-What's going on? Wendy!" She rushed to her partner's side. The first physical contact she had with Wendy surprisingly managed to make her slow down in her movements.
"I'm sorry, Carla," I said hesitantly.
"You made the right choice, Haru," she said. "It had to happen anyway, it was now or tomorrow. And thanks for picking me up." She added, still concentrating on Wendy, gently stroking her hair and whispering calming words. Wendy's thrashing gradually lessened, her breaths becoming more even.
As Lyra's soothing melody filled the room, we all watched with bated breath, hoping for Wendy's pain to subside. The atmosphere, still heavy with tension, began to ease slightly, offering a glimmer of hope.
"It's time, children," announced Makarov. "Please, return to your rooms. Only Haru will stay here tonight. Even you, Carla, we're taking you back."
"What? There's no way I'm going anywhere!" Carla retorted.
"You'll be coming with me, Carla. Please," he said with a commanding voice.
"But..." she started, before Erza gently picked her up. "It's okay, Haru is here," she said, taking Carla away.
"Good night, Haru," said Makarov, ushering everyone out.
I was alone. Alone with Wendy. Why? Why that decision? I couldn't put the pieces together. "Shit," I mumbled.
The night went on, Wendy waking in pain every fifteen to thirty minutes. However, each time, it was a bit less intense than before.
—
Birds started chirping, a few sun rays slowly peeking through the window. My head was resting on my arms, slumped on the side of the bed. "It's already morning," I said to myself. I tried opening my eyes, with no success. I hadn't slept in nearly 30 hours straight. I was exhausted. My body refused to move. But when I heard, "Haru?" my eyes blew wide open, my head raising in a millisecond.
There she was. Sititng in the bed, her eyes open. "Wendy? Y-You okay?" I stammered.
"I feel a little tired, but mostly... yeah, I feel fine," she said, looking surprised. "Haru, why are you here? And why do you look so... tired?" she asked.
My eyes filled up. "It's okay, Wendy, I'll explain later," I said, before hugging her tightly.
The guild hall was bustling, everyone well-rested after a good night's sleep. Mira was taking orders for breakfast and coffees, while the others chatted around, going about their day.
But all eyes turned toward the infirmary door when someone came out.
"Wendy!" yelled Mira, nearly dropping the plate she was holding. Putting it aside, she ran, with many others, in her direction.
"How are you feeling?" asked Erza, a huge smile on her face and tears welling in her eyes.
"I'm still a bit tired, but to be honest, I don't feel that bad," Wendy said, smiling.
Many people hadn't seen her smile in a long time. They all cheered, hugging her and telling her how much they missed her.
After a while, Mira gasped, "What about Haru?" Everyone around her seemed to have forgotten I was asked to stay here the whole night.
"Seems like he stayed up all night watching over me," Wendy said, a hint of guilt in her voice.
They peeked into the room, checking where I was. I was still on my knees, my head slumped on the side of the bed. At the sight, Mira chuckled. She and Natsu moved to position me on the bed so I could rest comfortably.
"Poor guy," Natsu said, shaking his head with a smile. "He looks like he fought a dragon all night."
Mira gently brushed the hair out of my face. "He really gave it his all," she said softly. "Let's let him sleep."
A/N : And done ! Well, I hope I didn't go too much overboard and that all this makes sense. Please tell me your thoughts on it !
Next chapter will be focused on Haru, mainly.
Until then, see ya !
.Ney.