"This way.''
Gray entered the inn, leading his companion towards the hall, where Sho and Millianna stood. Both turned to the new arrivals, their worried expressions turning hopeful ''You found one?''
Gray nodded and the man cleared his throat ''Well then, where is my patient?''
Riku had collapsed shortly after they left the beach, leading them to discover that he had a terrible fever. This prompted them to hurry to the nearest town and find a doctor. As it were, they were left to wait and hope for the best.
"So you don't know what happened to Jellal?'' Wally clarified.
Natsu nodded ''I barely saw him trying to move when Belle used her magic.''
"You don't think he's going to come back do you?'' Lucy couldn't help but wonder.
"I don't see how anyone could come back from such a thing...is what I want to think.'' He amended. ''But I know that floor was one of those with emergency fail-safes, Jellal always liked to be prepared so maybe...''
Silence ensued, they had all seen the tower fall apart in the midst of the explosion, having been a safe distance away. The thought of the madman behind their most recent ordeal coming back already wasn't one they wanted to consider but...the possiblity was there.
"Gah, screw that! What're we worrying about this crap for?! Let him show up, we'll just kick his ass again!'' Natsu proclaimed.
"...You're right.'' Erza's expression was just as determined. ''What matters is that the past is behind us and Jellal can't change that.
Eriks eyes narrowed "He won't have a say in our lives ever again.''
"Yeah! Let the traitor try-he's going to pay!'' Millianna said fiercely, Sho and Wally nodding at once.
Eyes traveled to the doctor as he came out of the room moments later, smiling a little as they approached ''I'm not quite done yet but Starlight-kun is going to be all right, he needs complete rest...''
A relieved Belle proceeded to thank him but Natsu happened to look back in the room, noticing Riku shift restlessly, his expression pained ''Hey, you just said he'd be okay! What gives?''
"That's what I was getting at.'' The doctor started. ''I'm afraid that's beyond my abilities for the moment. Given his state, I think he's delirious. After what your friend told me about what you've been through, I'm afraid trauma is inevitable.''
Lucy paled ''Y-you mean...?'' They'd all suspected that Jellal's machinations would have after-effects but the thought that he was likely having nightmares of those horrid illusions made her feel sick.
She could see the realization sinking in for the others as well. ''Can you do anything to help?''
"There's medication for just this sort of thing, I need a few hours to prepare it though...''
"Anyway we can help make it happen sooner?'' Wally cut in.
"Yeah, if you need anything-we'll get it.'' Gray added.
The doctor's expression softened ''...very well then.''
"But Happy...''
No buts, you're going! Come back later but you've got to take care of yourself too!''
Erza felt a small measure of relief as she watched Happy take Belle away to make sure she got to eat and rest. The blue cat was absolutely right. Riku would undoubtedly take it the worst if he found out that she neglected herself-especially because of him. It was times like this that reminded that despite his foolish antics, Happy could really be reliable.
She wished the same could be said about her...
Erza sat down on the chair next to Riku's bed, glancing at his still form before looking away. She thought she'd felt the worst when Jellal took him but finding out the truth was a hundred times more terrible. That traitor tried to break him. The memory of seeing that horrid nightmare sent an equal measure of fury and guilt through her. She had been such a coward, why didn't she take action sooner?
The sound of movement startled her out of her thoughts, bringing her attention to Riku. His expression contorted a little again as if he was struggling with something, as he shifted once again. A tear fell down his face. The sight made Erza's heart clench, wondering what he was seeing now.
She knew that Lucy was right. Neither Erik nor Belle blamed her for the situation, not really. Most of what they said when she revealed everything had been in the heat of the moment and brought due to her own actions. The blonde rightfully pointed out that it wouldn't have gotten that bad if she hadn't been so stubborn.
Riku also didn't hold any of this against her and it was a relief. But at the same time...she felt they were letting her off too lightly. This mess was all her fault. And he was paying the price...
After a moment of thought, she reequipped into a dress and got in the bed, gently wrapping her arms around her best friend. She began stroking his hair, idly noting how he leaned into her embrace. It almost made her smile when her ministrations seemed to bring him some measure of comfort for his breath eventually subsided, relaxing once more.
The following day...
Sho and Erza stood in the inn's hall, the latter having explained to the former how this whole mess started for them. He nodded at last ''Now it all adds up...but what're you going to do now? Think your guild's looking for you?''
Erza never got to answer as they heard Lucy's voice ''Funny you should mention that.''
The two turned with a start, finding her coming downstairs with Loke in tow...
As it turned out, Fairy Tail had actually been trying to find the wayward team due to Makarov noticing odd discrepancies about the job. Of course, given the situation, they'd no luck. However, Loke-who had been able to watch everything from his world, chose to help. Makarov contacted them through a lacrima he'd sent with Loke, wasting no time in berating them for not keeping in touch.
Erm, Master-there's a really good reason for that...'' Happy proceeded to explain, with some help from the others.
The two were left reeling from a mixture of horror and concern, a furious Makarov cursed Jellal. They'd suspected that something bad happened but certainly nothing of this magnitude...
"So we can't come back yet, Master-at least maybe not for a little while...'' Lucy was saying.
Makarov nodded ''I understand, child. That's for the best.''
"Wait, how come? I get that we shouldn't be going until Riku recovers but...'' Happy started.
"Happy, Jellal tortured him for hours. Just sending him back home without even a little time to recuperate is a terrible idea. I don't think you bounce back from something like that so easily.''
The cat didn't miss a few of the others' expressions which made it clear that they agreed with her. Makarov was quick to promise to explain everything to the others, assuring that they would treat this with care. This talk also gave Loke an idea...
Little happened in the next few days, the group took time to rest and recuperate, doing their best to help Riku. The dragon slayer's health was improving, much to their collective relief. The former tower prisoners declined Erza's invitation to join Fairy Tail, they simply wanted to travel now and find what they really wanted now that they were truly free...
"Let go!''
"Aw, but you're so cute, Belle-chan...I just want a little hug!''
"We passed a 'little hug' hours ago!''
Gray blinked twice, looking from the squabbling pair to Erik and back ''So, ah-what gives?''
"As you can see, Milia doesn't know when to give it a rest.'' He deadpanned. ''She's been all over Happy and Belle; Happy took a chance and escaped. Belle's been putting up with this for a while-I was wondering when she'd snap. Can't say I blame her.''
Looking at this, Gray couldn't either. He'd heard that the brunette was fond of cats and he specifically recalled her fawning over their feline friends to the point that Cubelios had to intervene so the two could have breakfast in peace. Hasn't she ever heard of overkill?
"So, where's Juvia anyway? Haven't seen her in a while.'' Erik remarked.
Oh, she left after helping us with the medicine. She's still looking for her friend, as it turns out that was actually Gajeel Redfox-yeah, I know.'' He added with a snort at the former's surprised look. ''I wouldn't have believed it either but she says he's actually a pretty decent guy. I don't buy it but Juvia's nice so guess we'll wait and see.''
"She still thinking of joining Fairy Tail?''
"How...'' Gray remembered who he was talking to, immediately dismissing the question. Erik shot him an amused look as he carried on. ''...yeah, never mind. She hasn't said much about it but I think Fairy Tail really made an impression. At least Gramps knows she helped us out so hopefully people won't give her too much grief.''
Erik nodded, they may not have started on the right foot but the girl deserved a chance after all she had done. Gray suddenly grimaced ''You don't think she'll invite Gajeel too...?''
His expression darkened at the thought of the other dragon slayer. Gajeel as a member of the guild was a bit of hard image to process but...''Guess we'll see. Either way, its up to Master. I trust his judgement.''
The creation wizard nodded. Makarov wouldn't allow a dangerous element in the guild and while Juvia had proven herself, there was no telling what Gajeel would do after all that happened.
Erik gave an annoyed sigh as Millianna tried again ''Doesn't this bring back memories...?'' He went to grab his old friend. ''Lay off, you goofball-enough is enough!''
"Aww, but...''
Gray rolled his eyes, the girl sure was stubborn. As expected of a friend of Erza...
Erza proceeded to check Riku's temperature, perking up as she found that there was some improvement. She helped him to some water before replacing the cool cloth on his forehead. Riku shifted in place and Erza was surprised to see his eyes open. He blinked blearily at her and she realized he was far from lucid at the moment. The knight mage took his hand in hers, squeezing it as she spoke ''It's all right, now-you'll be safe here so just rest. I'll be here-no one's going to hurt you on my watch.''
Riku tilted his head a little, leaning back as she gently coaxed him. It wasn't long before he drifted back to sleep. It pained her to think so but Lucy was right-the tower ordeal had been hard on all of them but that torture...recovering from their physical wounds was one thing but this? If only she knew how to help him...
"Oh really?'' She turned slightly at Wally's voice, finding him passing by with Natsu, Lucy and Happy. ''So she's nuts about sweets, huh?''
"Totally! I didn't see it but Gildarts said the first time she tried crepes was hilarious. It looked like she was in total bliss.''
Erza felt her face grow warm at the memory. Back early in their first days at the guild, Gildarts treated her to crepes once he found she didn't know what they even were. It was a memory she still looked back on fondly, even if her reaction was a little embarrassing now.
"But you should've seen what it was like when Riku made her cake for the first time!'' The fire dragon slayer added with a grin, leaving the three curious.
Lucy perked up ''Hey, don't stop there-spill!''
Happy tried to remember ''I...think I saw that but...?''
"Ah, you were really young.'' His partner waved a hand. ''So, it started when we saw Erza looking depressed...''
"So, what's with her?'' Natsu asked Makarov as they glanced at the downtrodden Erza. It was really weird-she hadn't even really reacted to his and Gray's fighting lately. Even Mira was getting a little worried about the girl...
He sighed ''I wish I knew. She won't say much to anyone. I'd hoped she could at least try to talk to us by now but she won't even tell Riku what's bothering her...''
The boy in question was also watching his old friend with a troubled look and they knew he was wondering what to do.
"Yeah, it's weird-even Mira-nee can hardly get much of a reaction out of her.'' Lisanna looked worried. ''I wonder what happened...Mira-nee just said she's been acting off ever since she came back from that recent guard mission.''
Makarov blinked ''Actually, yeah...but I was with her for most of it and she actually handled herself pretty well. Hmm...''
"Maybe it's because of those guys from the Council.'' Cana offered. ''We all know they really don't like our guild-what if one of them said something to her?''
Little did the girl realize, she was very close to the truth...
It was all because of Siegrain. The mere sight of the teen never failed to infuriate Erza, he had everyone thinking him a benevolent prodigy but around her, he showed his true nature. She already had doubts about him being Jellal's brother-everything about him screamed fishy-now she knew he was all too aware of what his brother had been doing. And the bastard just rubbed the past in her face, about how she failed her friends, how she was running away...
As if she hadn't known that already!
She hated the fact that she had to lie to Riku, after all there was no way in hell he would take the truth lying down. He thought their friends were safe because he trusted her. They were all supposed to be free after long last only for Jellal to stab them in the back. She utterly hated leaving them there but what choice did she have? Jellal had the upper hand and it was looking more and more like Siegrain was on his side-not that she could prove it.
How did she ever think she was becoming stronger when she was so powerless? When she couldn't even feel comfortable without her armor? As much as she liked Fairy Tail, she knew she was keeping everyone (even Riku to an extent) at a distance.
Riku watched the girl leave the guild without a glance at anyone, wishing he could help her. Erza denied that anything was wrong but Mira was right-something happened in her recent job and she simply refused to talk about it.
A thought occurred to him. Well, maybe talking was out of the question but what if...?
Elfman watched the proceedings in the kitchen with a growing smile, wondering if he could join.
"Hey! What's going on in there?'' Gray asked as he, Mira and Levy walked over.
"Riku asked Sara-san for help.'' was the response. ''He mentioned taking cooking lessons from her but I'm not sure what they're working on now...''
The three looked on curiously, noticing some ingredients in the area. This included flour, strawberries and eggs among a few others. This made it click for Mira, who laughed ''That sap! So he's going for it after all...'' The others looked at her curiously. ''...I heard a bit of their talk before-he wants to make strawberry cake.''
Elfman perked up ''Oh, you mean...?''
Gray grinned as he also figured it out while Levy looked delighted ''That is so sweet!''
Mira only snorted ''This looks anything but.'' Indeed, they could see him trashing something with a somewhat disheartened look on his face. Sara however only smiled and patted his shoulder, gently directing him to try again.
Riku's eyes narrowed in concentration as he carefully measured the ingredients. He didn't know if this would help but it was worth a try-he'd give it his all. Erza deserved as much.
Two days later, after night had fallen...
"Natsu!'' The redheaded girl huffed as she entered the guild. ''I just finished my job! Why did you tell Happy to stop me entering the bakery?''
The dragon slayer only grinned as Happy settled on his head ''Nice going.'' Happy beamed as the former gave him some scratches. ''Hey, Lisanna-she's here! Is it ready yet?''
"Yeah, just bring her over!''
Erza blinked twice as Natsu led her to the kitchen, her confusion growing as she found Sara, Levy, Makarov, Gray and the Strauss siblings clearly waiting for her. ''...What's going on?''
Elfman stepped back, revealing the package on the table as he and Lisanna cried out ''Surprise!''
"You bought that for me?'' Not that she didn't appreciate it but...
"Not quite.'' Sara moved to take the cover off, which was when she noticed Riku sleeping next to her. Erza noted that it wasn't actually cake from the bakery; it looked too sloppy for that. Why did they look so eager for her to try it?
"Well get started, tin can!'' Mira smirked.
Erza gave her rival an annoyed look but picked up the fork. Her face lit up at the taste. Despite the appearance, it was actually quite soft and sweet. The cream was a bit much but she could tell the creator had really gone the extra mile for this.
"So, you like it?'' Gray prodded.
"Ah...yes but...'' She was obviously confused but the former only grinned as he looked at Riku, who appeared glad to hear it.
"Hear that?''
Her eyes widened ''Riku...you made it for me?''
"He worked really hard, you know.'' Makarov grinned.
"I offered but he was absolutely insistent. He made it all himself, it's really something else, huh?'' Sara put in brightly, beaming at the pair.
"They're exaggerating-and forgetting the huge mess I made when all this started...'' Riku rubbed the back of his head. ''...you looked really down for a while and since I know how much you like this stuff-thought it was worth a try. It's not really anywhere near as good as the bakery but...'' He paused. ''...Erza?''
The others looked equally bewildered, for the girl had returned to eating the cake but was now crying. Natsu blinked twice ''Hey, what's the deal? You just said you liked it!''
"I do...'' She gave a watery smile, just registering her tears. ''...oh, I do...''
Levy smiled, knowing the girl was just that happy. Erza quickly proved that accurate as she flung her arms around her old friend ''Thank you...thank you so much...''
"Ah...just wanted to remind you that you weren't alone but...'' He began to smile, not expecting such a success but glad to see it all the same. ''...you're welcome.''
It was true, wasn't it? She wasn't alone as she felt-she had her new family-her dear friend all there for her. Maybe she didn't have all the answers she wanted yet but with their support, she felt like she could find them.
Erza smiled warmly, to this day, that remained one of her fondest memories. The bakery's cake may have been made with more skill but the fact that Riku's had more heart-that he went through all the trouble of learning for her never failed to warm her heart. She much preferred his cake over the bakery's cake.
A sibilant hiss caught her attention just as Cubelios entered the room, the snake's gaze centering on Riku. The redhead petted her scales, earning a content hiss. ''He'll be all right...it's all finally behind us.'' Cubelios nodded, nudging her back.
Looking at the snake had her thinking back on those strange crystal enemies. Now that she considered it-the man who experimented on Cubelios looked like the lowlife who tried to do the same to Riku. They never did find out who he actually was as he vanished shortly after that day but...
Erza was very familiar with Cubelios but she wouldn't deny that their reptilian friend's circumstances were strange. None of them had ever seen a single animal beside her during their captivity-not even corpses. And from what she could recall, any shipments that came to the island were very detailed.
Once again, she found herself wondering-where did Cubelios come from?
"It's amazing how much she's grown.'' Sho remarked. ''I mean we all knew Cubelios had magic and all but still...''
"Aye, she's unique all right.'' Happy half-smiled. ''Erik just found her, right?''
The card mage nodded ''It was before we met him but apparently she just escaped from the lower levels. We got used to her pretty quickly so the subject didn't really come up...'' He had a thought. ''...how did people back in your home take to Cubelios?''
"Oh...'' Happy snickered. ''...it was actually kind of funny, I remember back when we first met Erik...''
It all started with the screams.
A number of Fairy Tail members hurried to the source of the commotion finding the young maroon haired teen and his large reptilian friend. The former seemed to be saying something but no one was willing to listen and a couple of kids even threw things at Cubelios, calling her a monster. Erik was never one to take that lying down and his sudden anger made the onlookers label him to be more of a threat. The present Fairy Tail members were quick to step in to defend the civilians, they had trouble thanks to Erik's sound magic. However, the Raijinshuu were able to restrain him with help from Levy, who seized on the distraction they provided to stun him with a sound based solid script. It wasn't long before the four brought him to Makarov in the midst of the guild.
"You know, for someone who wanted to storm the town, you're not too bright.'' Jet grunted.
"That's because I never wanted to!'' Erik growled in annoyance. ''Like I was telling those guys, we're only here because I heard our friends were. Cubelios is my friend, not some monster!''
Makarov picked up on his sincerity with ease, canceling the spell binding the duo back. ''Sorry about that, son, I think we have quite a misunderstanding. What did you mean you heard your friends are here?''
"I mean, they're members of Fairy Tail. I haven't seen them in a long time but I recognize their description and...'' Erik paused, noticing his partner raising her head curiously. ''...What's wrong?''
Then, to their surprise, the snake suddenly dashed ahead, startling the onlookers into getting out of the way. Everyone heard a yelp before a new voice spoke ''What...whoa, Cubelios?!''
Makarov's eyes widened as he saw that the speaker was Riku, who was chuckling as the apparently happy snake licked his face. Bisca looked unnerved ''Riku, you know that thing?!''
"Hm? Sure, she's...'' He paused at the sight of Erik. ''...Erik!'' Erik smirked and held up a hand in greeting, relief clear in his eyes.
Erza was equally glad to see the teen, quickly getting him in a crushing hug, to the others' fond exasperation. Not only did she not know her own strength, she rarely took the armor off so her hugs just remained a source of pain for any target.
"Good grief...'' He rubbed his head after Riku pulled her away, pointing out the armor. ''...in some ways you haven't changed...''
"We came after our friends mentioned some threat-do you have any idea just what happened?'' Erza demanded.
He rolled his eyes as Riku gave their friends a look. Freed cleared his throat awkwardly ''Erm, we thought he was the threat. My sincere apologies for that by the way-your ah-friend gave people the wrong impression. And we overreacted.''
Erik's expression made it clear that he agreed. Sighing, he decided to accept the sincere apology for what it was. ''Yeah, I wasn't helping my case. It's all right, no harm done.''
Fortunately, that was the end of the trouble. Riku and Erza proceeded to introduce him to the others and it wasn't long before they were welcomed by Fairy Tail.
"And then they joined us after a few weeks.'' Happy carried on. ''Cubelios used to scare people but everyone's really warmed up to her. I'm pretty sure a lot of the townspeople count on her to help curb the chaos the others cause.''
Sho had one question ''I heard some stories. Is your guild really that bad?''
"...Whatever you've heard, the truth is worse. Definitely worse.''
A couple of days later...
Riku woke up to find himself in an unfamiliar room, still rather tired but he could at least think clearly now. He vaguely remembered hearing a few of his friends here and there but he wasn't quite sure what happened.
He remembered going with the others after they arrived at the beach but other than that...
A familiar squeal snapped him out of his thoughts and he turned in time to catch Belle as she flew to him. Finding it hard not to smile at his partner's exuberance, Riku stroked her fur, she beamed. ''I'm so glad to see you're better!''
The newly arrived Lucy didn't miss his confusion ''No surprise you don't know. You've been out with a bad fever for the last few days.'' Riku blinked, not expecting that. The blonde checked his temperature and smiled ''Mmhm, much better! The others will be thrilled to hear it. You're probably still out of it so I can get them here...'' She paused as he shook his head. ''...you're up to coming with? Alright then!''
Riku took a moment to absorb all that happened lately.
The Tower of Heaven hadn't actually been taken for good; Jellal had been building it in secret. Using his own friends to boot, he still didn't understand why they would even agree. He'd held their lives hostage over Erza this whole time and she'd had no choice but to flee. Riku had seen it all but it was still hard to taken in. Jellal was one of his closest friends. If anyone had told him the blue haired boy would've turned out like this, he would've thought them insane. But he had and he actually wanted to follow in their former captors' footsteps, it disgusted him to no end.
Erza clearly thought he resented her for hiding the truth. And yes a part of him had been upset-who wouldn't be? But he understood-she was trapped, she took the choice that would keep their friends safe. He wouldn't ever condemn her for that-he just wished he could've known sooner-he could've spared her...spared them all this. If only they could've reached out sooner...maybe Simon would've...
No, he shook himself. There was no point thinking like that-he'd drive himself crazy with the 'what-ifs'.
Simon was dead-all because of their traitorous friend. And just when he'd finally had a chance to attain freedom...to think he just held out this whole time to be reunited with his sister. Had she survived the cultists' raid? And if she had...
It wasn't long before they arrived at the others' location and they were all indeed happy to see him back on his feet. Millianna was quick to glomp him, talking so fast that he could hardly follow but what he could pick up made it clear that she was delighted. Riku's lips twitched as he hugged her back, also relieved to see them all safe and sound.
"All right, enough.'' Erza pulled the brunette back. ''I understand your enthusiasm but give him space.''
"Aww, Er-chan, if you wanted to hug him, you just had to ask!''
The redhead spluttered-her face growing warm while Gray smirked ''She's totally transparent, huh?''
Millianna snickered ''Yup, but that's Er-chan for you!''
"H-how did you get that out of what I said?!''
"Because it's that obvious!'' Happy chirped, pushing her towards Riku. The startled girl stumbled only to be steadied by Riku, managing to thank him and hoping her blush would fade.
Happy stiffened at the withering glare she aimed his way, hiding behind the couch while Sho and Natsu laughed. Riku almost smiled; as usual Erza was far too easy to tease. He didn't get why everyone was so sure they'd end up together (Yes he knew about the bet, Cana wasn't nearly as subtle as she thought) but the redhead was his best friend. Honestly, he wasn't too impressed with his friends because they knew why he had no intention of taking a relationship that far.
The sight of them bantering like always never failed to amuse him though...
He froze as something flashed past his mind's eye.
Magnolia was raided and his unsuspecting family was ambushed...so much death and destruction everywhere...and there he was under the curse's hold, fighting for the enemy, simply regarding his guild, his own family as if it were nothing...
The cold hand of fear gripped his heart even as he tried to remind himself that this was one of Jellal's illusions. It wasn't real...it wasn't real...!
He couldn't even hear the others crying out in worry and trying to snap him out of it. Erza tried to shake him by the shoulders but it didn't seem to do much good but it was only with Erik using his sound magic to call out directly to his mind that they succeeded.
As they looked at their shell-shocked friend, Erik swore he was going to make Jellal suffer dearly. He knew exactly what Riku had seen and the thought was infuriating. ''Listen, I know it's hard but you've got to remember, you beat those things. You helped us beat that traitor, remember? None of that happened-you're too strong to just give up-look how much you've been holding on all these years. We told you back then, you're not a threat to any of your friends and family and screw the idiots who don't see it.''
"That's right!'' Erza said fiercely, bringing him into her embrace. Her heart clenched as she felt him trembling. ''It doesnt matter what any of them said, you're one of us and I'll be damned before I abandon you. The curse wasn't your fault! You've gone through so much just to protect us without a complaint. We're here for you, don't forget that!''
Riku breathed out harshly, remembering some of the words they told him in the past. He had been close to leaving Fairy Tail, no matter how much the thought killed him when his friends stopped him...right, he hadn't hurt them...it didn't happen...
"W-what just...?'' An alarmed Natsu managed.
"Lucy was right.'' Sho's eyes were shiny as he wiped them. ''You don't get off with the shit Jellal put him through easily.''
Belle blinked back tears, she knew this wouldn't be easy but seeing him like this was awful. Even when the battle was over, Riku wouldn't have any reprieve. ''M-Magnolia's safe! We were going to tell Master when you woke up-you should see it for yourself!''
They reached Makarov while he had been with Mira, both were equally glad to receive word of Riku's recovery. But...
"I see...'' Makarov's expression was grave while Mira was staring at the downcast Riku in horror. Belle hugged her partner, giving whatever comfort she could. ''...I was afraid something like this would happen. But to start with-Riku, most of those terrible visions involved Fairy Tail and Magnolia in some capacity. As well as you losing control to the curse and turning on us...or us abandoning you, am I right so far?''
Riku nodded, hardly even noticing the others immediately cry out in protest. He knew-he knew they wouldn't but...a part of him always held that fear. That he'd lose the home he'd found after so long, that he'd lose another family...
"What the heck, man?! You're our friend-you're family! There's no way!'' Natsu stated.
"...It's not that simple, Natsu.'' Gray said after a moment, scowling. He could think of one event that reinforced this fear.''...I'm going to have words with those idiots back in town...''
Lucy and the former tower prisoners were puzzled. The blonde had heard vague mentions of what happened that lead to them finding about the curse but...no one had actually explained a thing. Noting their befuddlement, Erik exhaled ''It's...complicated but let's just say the truth about Riku's situation didn't go down well in Magnolia.''
Lucy didn't miss Gray muttering darkly about how much of an understatement that was. Happy was glaring at the ground and Cubelios' hiss sounded angry. Those reactions told their own story...
"I'm more amazed you held on, you really are tough as nails, Riku.'' Sho was surprised when the former shook his head. ''What do you mean? You don't think so?''
"But Riku...'' Gray's eyes widened as he noted Riku's response. ''...the heck...?''
Millianna blinked twice ''What'd he say?''
"That it wasn't about strength.'' Lucy was just as baffled as the others despite them understanding his words. ''It was more like there was no other way. The only thing he could do was convince himself that it had to be a lie, because if he hadn't held on-it would've been the end.''
Silence reigned as they took the ominous statement in, unsure what to make of it. Riku couldn't explain why but was the impression he got. He had truly been driven to the brink-he'd been desperately trying to convince himself that the illusions were just that-a lie. But it was so hard after a while-when they began feeling so real...he was almost driven insane. It had taken everything he had to suppress the curse but he couldn't shake the feeling that something truly terrible would've happened if he hadn't.
"...Then let's be thankful you did pull it off.'' Erza said at last, tightening her hold on his hand.
As much as he wanted to go back home, Riku wasn't sure he was ready to see Magnolia so soon with those nightmares fresh in his mind. Mira nodded after he explained this ''I'm not surprised...well, let me try something.''
She began moving the lacrima and it displayed a number of images of the guild, where those nearby greeted their friends, expressing their concerns and reassuring Riku everything was fine.
Erza didn't miss him stiffening when the view shifted to their home's streets. The fear and pain in his eyes made her guilt return tenfold. She was afraid to ask what he was seeing this time.
Riku shut his eyes, shaking his head as he tried to remind himself that the image of the destroyed Magnolia-the streets on fire and...All the victims were fake...they were all right, they were really all right.
Erza squeezed his hand, feeling his instinctively tighten ''It's not real. Remember you're here with us.'' Riku nodded tersely, taking a shuddering breath.
"Well, this is where Loke's idea comes in, right?'' Happy asked, his cheerful tone somewhat forced.
Gray perked up ''Yeah...'' To Riku, he added. ''...so apparently Loke had free tickets to Akane Resort. Pretty sure he picked it up thanks to one of his floozies or something but anyway-he gave them to Lucy the other day.''
"Loke thinks we could all use it. I say a bit of R and R is just what the doctor ordered, right?'' Lucy winked.
"Yeah, we've got to do it!'' Belle chimed in.
"Aye Sir!'' Natsu and Happy cried.
Erza chuckled ''Well, this couldn't have come at a better time. Wouldn't you say, Riku?''
He returned her smile with one of his own and nodded. Well, things had been bad and they still were in some ways. But they didn't have to be that way for long. Maybe he could find a silver lining amongst all the clouds, he had no idea how but he would try. How could he not when he had this amazing group of people who accepted him for who he was? His home and family were still there waiting-remembering that made his heart soar. He hadn't given up when things were bad before and he wouldn't give up now. Not a chance.
Well, let's stop here.
I hope it was good. I did consider adding more but I wouldn't know where to stop if I did. Besides, the resort works for a better setting considering my plan and I didn't want to shove everything here. Anyway, Riku's going to have some healing to do from this point on, the next arc delves into that. He and Laxus are central character and it explains how they as well as Mira became close friends.
I think I might have mentioned this but in case I didn't-Riku's misgivings are completely accurate. Something terible would've happened if he hadn't managed to hold on, way worse than anything Jellal could've handled. This has to do with the origin of the curse and it's something I'd delving into later so that's all I'm going to say on the matter.
Yeah, not all the arrivals can be peaceful. I don't think people would just take Cubelios' appearance in stride so they took her as a monster. They know better now and she's generally well-liked because they know she's friendly. Oh and I planned to bring this up but yeah, Riku's not oblivious to the others' romantic comments, he's just ignoring them. He's known about the best for a while, he's not too bothered. It's not that he wouldn't see Erza in that light, he hasn't been given the chance. He has no intention of pursuing any romance because of the curse. It already took him enough time to accept that he could be with everyone in Fairy Tail-which actually has to do with the reveal of the curse years ago. It's a memory I'm going to explain in the next arc but for now let me just say that the reveal went terribly. Part of the problem was a huge misunderstanding and some stubborn idiots but Riku was hurt bad and the whole thing stuck with him. So yeah, I know people want to see romance with those two-honestly I'm looking forward to when I get to the actual romance-but it's going to be slow because there are hurdles they have to overcome.
So for now it's on to Akane Resort-where they're just going to have a well earned good time before on to the next arc. You'll see the reactions of people in Fairy Tail when they go back to Magnolia. Let's just say they won't let Jellal lightly (nothing against the guy but is anyone else annoyed by how he's handled in canon or is it just me?)
Welp, Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed it. Till next time!