A/N : Back with chapter 21 ! This one is just a sweet chapter, getting a bit more into everyone's relationships.
Enjoy !
The sun was just beginning to rise over Magnolia as I strolled through the quiet streets. I had woken up early and decided to venture out for a change. Mira's bar wasn't open yet for my usual morning coffee fix, so I set out to find the famous bakery Lucy had mentioned—though she hadn't exactly given me the location, or maybe I just hadn't been listening.
As I reached a crossroads, I spotted Freed on the other side of the road. "Hey Haru," he called, waving.
"Hey Freed," I waved back, crossing over to him. "What's up this early? It's rare to see you off that roof before Mira takes her place behind the counter," he remarked with a curious smile.
"Yeah, I woke up early and couldn't get back to sleep," I replied, still groggy from my restless night. "Maybe you can help me. I'm looking for that bakery Lucy mentioned the other day."
Freed chuckled, "You passed it." At his words, I facepalmed, feeling a bit foolish. "I really need to freshen up before going anywhere," I said, shaking my head. "Thanks, Freed. See ya."
Turning back, I finally noticed the bakery—with a huge sign, no less—just around the corner. I stepped inside and ordered a coffee. Once served, I sat outside, appreciating the early morning sun. This was going to be a great day.
—
"You organized this? All on your own?" gasped Lucy, her excitement palpable.
Mira smiled proudly. "Yep, and we're all going. I just need to see who's in or out."
"Going where?" asked Erza, intrigued.
"To the beach!" exclaimed Lucy, clapping her hands together.
"Oh, the beach? I love the idea. It's the perfect time to try out those new bikinis," said Erza, her confidence shining through.
"Yeah, like they won't fit you," Lucy deadpanned, earning a playful eye roll from Erza.
"Erza, could you let everyone know about the beach day and find out who's coming?" Mira asked with a smile.
"Sure thing, count on me," Erza replied, taking on the task with her usual determination.
At that moment, Natsu and I walked into the guild. I met him on my way back.
"And then I burned Happy's fish, so now he's mad at me," Natsu declared, his tone a mix of frustration and amusement.
"Well, you can't really blame him," I said, laughing.
"Boys! Come here!" Lucy waved us over.
We joined the girls, eager to know what they were talking about.
"An entire day? From morning to nightfall? I'm all fired up!" said Natsu, his eyes gleaming with excitement.
"Relax, you crazy volcano. It's a beach day, not a training ground!" Lucy shouted, earning laughs from everyone around the bar.
"Count me in," I grinned. "Can't say no to some outside relaxation."
"Of course you can't, you sleep on a roof," Lucy sweatdropped.
After announcing the beach day around the guild, unfortunately, many people weren't able to join. Laxus and Team Raijin had just left on a mission, as did Levy, Jet, and Droy. Alzack and Bisca were also busy that day. Gajeel was coming, but he planned to leave in the late afternoon for some reason.
That left Natsu, Lucy, Gray, Juvia, Erza, Wendy, Mira, and me for the entire day.
"I'll grab some stuff to eat and drink for the night. It's gonna be party time," I grinned.
"You're always down for drinking and eating," mocked Gray.
"Shut up, Icecube," I shot back. "Come help me rather than doing nothing."
"Uh, sure," he said, getting up. "Be right back. Haru can't carry two bags alone," he added, waving as he walked off.
Mira and Erza chuckled at our banter.
"Oh yeah, you wanna have it right here, snowflake?" I roared, challenging Gray.
"Haru can get worse than Natsu sometimes," Lucy said, nearly impressed.
And we headed to the market to gather supplies. The bustling marketplace was alive with vibrant colors and the enticing scents of fresh fruits, grilled meats, and baked goods. Vendors called out their wares, and shoppers moved from stall to stall, filling the air with a lively hum. Gray and I navigated through the crowd, filling our bags with snacks, drinks, and everything we'd need for a perfect beach day.
"So Haru, tonight's the night?" Gray asked with a smirk.
"Huh?" I replied, looking at him in confusion. "The heck are you talking about?"
Gray facepalmed. "You really can be Natsu's twin sometimes..."
I watched him, confusion growing. "If you say so."
"I was talking about Mira, you idiot," he said, rolling his eyes.
"Mira? What about her?" I asked, still not catching on.
"Oh, come on, man. Everyone in the guild is just waiting for you two lovebirds to get together," Gray said, his smirk widening.
I turned bright red. "Together? But why? I mean, I'm maybe closer to her than others, but that doesn't mean anything!"
"Yeah right, you're a lost cause," Gray sighed, shaking his head.
Back at the guild, everyone was gearing up for the trip. Natsu and Happy were arguing about who would carry the cooler, their voices rising in playful frustration.
"I'm stronger, so I should carry it!" Natsu insisted.
"But I'm smaller, so I can fit it better!" Happy retorted, crossing his little arms.
Meanwhile, Erza was meticulously packing sunscreen, towels, and other essentials, her organizational skills on full display. She double-checked each item, ensuring nothing was forgotten.
Wendy excitedly helped Mirajane prepare a picnic basket, her enthusiasm infectious. "I can't wait for everyone to taste these sandwiches!" Wendy exclaimed, carefully arranging the food.
Nearby, Gajeel was begrudgingly packing his bag, muttering under his breath. "Can't believe I'm doin' this beach thing," he grumbled, though the small smile tugging at his lips betrayed his true feelings.
"Quit your whining, Gajeel. It'll be fun!" Juvia chimed in as she neatly folded towels and placed them into a beach bag. She was humming softly to herself, clearly looking forward to the outing.
"Yeah, yeah," Gajeel replied, rolling his eyes. "I'm just gonna leave early anyway."
Juvia then turned her attention to Gray, who was helping me organize the drinks. "Gray-sama, do you think we have enough drinks? Should we bring more water?"
Gray looked over the supplies. "We're good, Juvia. Don't forget Haru bought them. He drinks for 5."
I only slapped his head in response.
With everyone working together, the preparations were quickly completed. The guild buzzed with excitement, the anticipation of a fun-filled day at the beach lifting everyone's spirits.
"Let's go !" Yelled Natsu, leaping forwards, both arms in the air.
Upon arrival, the sparkling blue water and pristine sand stretched out before us, a breathtaking vista that made everyone pause in awe.
"Mavis, this is beautiful," said Lucy, her eyes glinting with excitement. "Mira, I love you!" She added, hugging the white-haired girl tightly.
We chose our spot and quickly set up everything, with Erza's organizational skills ensuring that everything was perfect. Small tents for shade, hammocks, sunbathing chairs—all meticulously arranged.
"This place is amazing," Wendy said, her voice filled with wonder as she helped set up the picnic area.
"Oh, so this is the moment when I gotta compare my muscles to you guys," I deadpanned, taking off my t-shirt and feeling slightly self-conscious.
"Why? You're athletic, man!" Natsu replied, patting me on the back.
"Yeah right, you all look like freaking bulldozers," I muttered, glancing at Natsu, Gray, and Gajeel, who were already shirtless and flexing.
Gray chuckled. "Don't worry, Haru. You fit right in."
"Exactly. Plus, it's not just about muscles," Mirajane said with a wink, setting up the final touches for the picnic.
I turned to see Gray smirk at me, as I started running after him.
"Hey wait for me !" added Natsu. "And there they go..." sighed Lucy. "Can't understand the word 'relax'" she added.
After a while, Natsu and Happy dashed into the water, causing a splash war that soon involved everyone. Erza and Juvia lay on the sunbathing chairs, chatting and enjoying the warmth. Gajeel, after setting up his hammock, joined us in the water, though he pretended to be uninterested.
"Hey, who's down for a beach volley match ?" shouted Erza from the sand.
"Why not!" Waved Lucy, suddenly struck by fear, feeling 3 demonic presences behind her, being Gray Natsu and I, eyes filled with flames hearing Erza's challenge.
"How about Haru, Gajeel, Lucy, and Gray against Natsu, me, Juvia, and Erza? Wendy doesn't want to play, so she can be the referee !" Asked Mira
"Sounds good to me," Erza said, a competitive glint in her eye.
Gray and I grinned, fistbumping Gray and Gajeel, happy to be in the same team, and mostly, against Natsu.
The game started off normal enough. Lucy served first, sending the ball sailing over the net. Natsu jumped up, spiking it back with a force that made the ball whiz past us and hit the sand.
"Nice one, Natsu!" Juvia cheered.
"Don't get too cocky," Gray said, rolling his eyes as he retrieved the ball.
The game continued with volleys back and forth, everyone laughing and shouting encouragement.
But as the game progressed, the competitive nature of Fairy Tail mages began to show. Natsu, unable to resist, started using his Fire Dragon Slayer magic to add extra power to his spikes, sending the ball blazing through the air.
"That's cheating, Natsu!" Lucy yelled, trying to shield her eyes from the flash.
"Oh, come on! It's not that bad," Natsu grinned.
Erza, not to be outdone, used her Requip magic to don her athletic armor, increasing her agility and strength. She dove for a difficult save, sending the ball flying back over the net with pinpoint accuracy.
"Is that even allowed?" I muttered, watching in disbelief.
"Fine, if that's how we're playing it," Gray said, his hands glowing with ice magic. He formed a small ramp on our side, allowing the ball to bounce perfectly to me for a counterattack.
"Here we go!" I shouted, jumping up and spiking the ball with all my might, using a burst of wind magic for extra speed.
The ball zoomed past Natsu, landing just inside the line. Our team erupted in cheers, while the others groaned.
"This is getting out of hand," Mirajane laughed, her usual calm demeanor amused by the chaos.
Juvia summoned a small wave to block one of Gray's serves, sending it splashing back to our side.
The game had turned into a full-blown magical showdown, with everyone using their abilities to gain an edge. The sand flew, and the ball whizzed through the air, leaving trails of fire, ice, and wind.
"Alright, enough!" Erza finally called, laughing as she caught the ball mid-air. "Let's call it a draw before we destroy the beach."
Everyone collapsed onto the sand, panting and laughing. The game had been intense but incredibly fun, showcasing not just our skills but also the strong bonds between us.
"This was the best volleyball game ever," Wendy said, still giggling.
"Agreed," I said, lying back on the warm sand.
The day was perfect. Cheers and laughter filled the air as everyone basked in the joy of each other's company. After we ate lunch, I decided to take a nap on one of the sunbathing chairs. It didn't take long for the soothing sound of the waves and the warmth of the sun to lull me to sleep.
During that time, Natsu and Gray were battling it out in the water, trying to prove who had the most power underwater. Their reactions were priceless when Juvia literally wiped the floor with both of them, her water magic giving her the upper hand.
Lucy and Mira went for a leisurely walk down the beach, their laughter echoing softly as they chatted and collected seashells. Under the shade, Erza and Wendy were engaged in a deep conversation, the older mage offering wisdom and advice to the young dragon slayer.
Gajeel joined the fun shortly after, launching huge iron pillars into the water towards Gray and Natsu, who barely managed to dodge them amidst their antics.
—
When I finally woke up, the afternoon was nearing its end. Gajeel had already left, and Natsu and Gray were snoring loudly on the sand, exhausted from their earlier show of brute force. The sun cast a golden hue over the beach, making everything feel warm and serene.
Wendy was sitting not far from me, watching Erza, Mira, and Lucy play a game of 'normal' volleyball. Their shouts of encouragement and laughter filled the air.
"You don't want to play?" I asked her with a groggy voice.
"How can you be so groggy at 5 in the afternoon?" she said, sweatdropping. "And I'm too small to play volleyball."
"Too small? Who cares, just use your wind magic to get higher."
"That's cheating, Haru!"
"Yeah, it's not cheating when some stupid fireball shoots a flaming volleyball, creating a crater right where you were standing a second ago," I deadpanned, glancing at Natsu peacefully sleeping.
Wendy laughed. "True, but still, I just don't feel like it."
I smiled. "Wanna have a drink instead?"
"Sure!" she exclaimed.
I handed her a fruit juice while grabbing a beer for myself. "Why do I get the juice?" she pouted.
I ruffled her hair. "Cuz you're too small for alcohol."
I earned a playful bonk on the head in response.
"Girls, who wants a drink?" I called out, rubbing the sore spot where Wendy had hit me.
Erza, Mira, and Lucy paused their game and came over to grab a drink, thanking me with bright smiles before returning to their match.
"So, Mira, tonight's the night?" Lucy smirked, her eyes twinkling mischievously.
"W-what?" Mira stammered, missing the ball entirely and turning a shade of pink. Her sudden clumsiness drew laughs from the others.
"Oh, come on, don't be like that," Lucy said, her smirk widening. "You think nobody sees you and Haru?"
Mira's blush deepened, and she glanced over at me nervously. "It's not like that..." she began, but her voice lacked conviction.
"Sure, sure," Lucy teased, her grin only growing. "Everyone in the guild can see the way you look at each other. It's adorable."
Erza, overhearing the conversation, joined in with a knowing smile. "It's true, Mira. You and Haru have something special."
Mira covered her face with her hands, trying to hide her embarrassment. "Nothing happened between us!"
Lucy laughed and patted Mira on the back. "Relax, Mira. We're just happy for you. Besides, Haru's a great guy." she said. "If you ignore his coffee adiction and miserable attitude when he wakes up" she added, a bit louder so I could hear her
And I obviously heard, before shooting a furious glance at her, earning laughs from the girls.
When Gray and Natsu woke up, I tossed a beer to each of them. "Hello, my sleeping beauties," I grinned, teasingly.
"You slept half the afternoon, Sparky," Natsu retorted, cracking open his beer and taking a swig.
Everyone gathered around the fire, which Natsu lit with a single flick of his finger.
"Always useful having a walking lighter," joked Gray.
"Always useful having a jerk," replied Natsu, before headbutting him.
"Come on, guys, stop fighting," I said, earning sweatdrops from the girls.
"You're not in the best spot to say that," Wendy chuckled.
As the sun set, everyone got to work preparing dinner. Mira and Lucy set the table, while the guys and I cooked the meat, sipping our beers and chatting.
We all sat down to eat, exchanging stories about the guild and sharing random tales from our adventures. The night air was cool and refreshing, a perfect contrast to the warmth of the fire.
As the night progressed, we gathered around the fire. Lucy sat next to Natsu, their shoulders touching. Erza and Wendy were beside them, with Mira next to me. Gray and Juvia completed the circle, forming a perfect ring around the flickering flames.
"So, wanna do something?" asked Lucy, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
"Yeah, get some drinks out!" I exclaimed, feeling the excitement build.
"Huh, ya know what, I'm in. At this point, let's just party," said Gray, finally giving in to my enthusiasm.
"I propose we play some little games," said Erza, a spark of excitement in her eyes. "What about... 'Have You Ever'?"
We all smiled, approving the idea.
"Okay then, I'll start!" announced Erza. "Have you ever taken something without asking?"
Natsu grinned sheepishly. "Okay, I might have 'borrowed' some food from the guild hall kitchen once or twice."
"More like every day," Mira said with a mock scolding look. Everyone laughed, knowing Natsu's legendary appetite.
"My turn!" said Wendy. "Have you ever used your magic in a funny way?" She chuckled. "I once used my Sky Dragon Slayer magic to make Carla float around the room. She was so mad at me, but it was really fun."
Mira nodded, a mischievous glint in her eye. "I once used my Take Over magic to prank Elfman by turning into him and confusing everyone."
"Have you ever been caught in an embarrassing situation?" asked Gray. "'Cause I have. I once accidentally stripped in public during a mission. I didn't realize it until a whole crowd was staring at me."
"Strange that doesn't even surprise me," I said, smirking.
Lucy coughed. "My turn. Have you ever had a crush on someone in the guild?" She asked, a gigantic smirk appearing on her face. Most of the people around shot her a "I'll kill you later" glare.
"Sooooo?" she added. "Come on, Gray? Juvia?"
"Juvia has a crush on Gray-sama. It is true. But Juvia is proud," she declared, earning a very slight blush from Gray.
"That's very brave of you, Juvia," said Lucy, clapping her hands together. "Not like everyone around here," she smirked, glancing over at Mira.
"Okay, next question!" yelled Mira, clearly flustered.
"My turn!" shouted Natsu. "Have you ever accidentally destroyed something important?"
Natsu scratched his head, grinning. "Because I think I've lost count. But one time, I burned a book Lucy loved, and she's never let me forget it."
Lucy playfully punched Natsu's arm. "That was my favorite book!"
The drinks continued flowing, the laughter growing louder and more boisterous. The night went on, and as the fire slowly weakened.
After a few hours, Wendy was starting to fall asleep.
"Come here, Wen," I told her, motioning with my hands. She came over, rubbing her eyes. "Getting tired, huh?" I added.
"Mmh," she murmured, naturally laying her head on my legs. It only took a few minutes of gentle hair stroking before she completely drifted off.
"Ooh, you two are so cute," said Lucy, clearly starting to feel the effects of the beers kicking in.
"Yeah, you and Natsu look cute as well," I smirked. However, her reaction wasn't what I expected at all.
"I know, right?" she said, hugging Natsu tightly.
I glanced at Gray, who simply shrugged it off.
As the fire began to die down, we all laid back, enjoying the serene night. I carefully moved Wendy to a spot where she could sleep peacefully.
Lucy was nearly asleep, her head resting on Natsu's chest. For once, Gray wasn't complaining about Juvia; they were both a bit further down on the beach, watching the sky together.
Erza was also dozing off. After covering Wendy up, I walked back to the fire and sat down next to Mira.
"Still not tired?" I asked.
"Kinda, but the sky is beautiful tonight. So I guess I can stay up a bit," she smiled.
"True. See why I love being outside? I have this view every night on the roof."
Mira chuckled. "You really are special, aren't you?" She said, laying her head on my shoulder and placing her hand on mine.
"Guess I am," I said, caught between a smile and a grimace, though she didn't notice.
She started to fall asleep, so I gently moved her down onto the sand and covered her up as well. After that, I simply lay back, staring at the stars. These moments were my favorite. I smiled, listening to Mira's slow, steady breathing as she slept next to me. Looking around, I noticed everyone had fallen asleep—even Gray and Juvia, who were squished together.
I closed my eyes, my hands behind my head. But before I could drift off, Mira stirred and moved closer, snuggling her body against mine. I wrapped my arm around her shoulders before finally drifting off to sleep.
A/N : And done ! I hope you liked it, I'm trying not to go too fast with those ships, I want them to stick to the slow pace route.
For next chapter, diving right into a new mission !
Until then, see ya !
.Ney.