Disclaimer: I do not own the characters of Fairy Tail and Final Fantasy XVI.

Chapter 3 - Guided

Lucy sat on her couch, her eyes fixated on her calendar that hung right above her desk. She wasn't sure how she was supposed to tell her teammates that she wanted to visit her parents' grave alone. It's been a month since her solo job at Isfrost and ever since they got back from Akane Resort, her teammates have resorted to having impromptu sleepovers twice or thrice a week. While she appreciated their protectiveness, she just needed this time alone.

"I'm pretty sure they'll understand…" she muttered to herself as she stood up and got ready for the day.

Once she got to the guild, she immediately went straight to the bar where Mira was quick to serve her strawberry smoothie. "You are such a blessing, Mira," she said, sipping on her cold drink with a relieved sigh.

"How are things with your team?" Mira asked while she worked on drying the wet utensils with a cloth.

Lucy tucked her chin in one of her hands. "I'm trying to figure out if Erza will let me travel to Acalypha to visit my parents."

Mira gave Lucy a sympathetic smile. She knew what that was like. "I'm sure she'll understand if you tell her," she said as she wiped the counter. "You should ask now though. I overheard Erza telling Wendy to pick a job from the board."

She gave Mira a thankful smile and hopped off the barstool to head over to her team. "Hey guys," she said with a wave and sat beside a drooling Natsu. She looked at Happy who was busy munching on a fish head. "Why is he asleep at this time of the day?"

"We stayed up all night fishing," Happy replied, swallowing the fish head.

Lucy knew why. It was something that the duo always did whenever they ran out of food stock. She gave Happy a small pat on his head and smiled. "You know that my fridge is open to you guys, right?"

"We know," Happy threw a bone on one of the bone-filled plates. "But Natsu said he was too lazy to walk!"

"Of course he's lazy on the important stuff," she couldn't help but roll her eyes at that. Her gaze then landed on Gray who was talking to Juvia. She couldn't help but feel happy for the both of them. While nothing was official, it seemed like Gray was working on opening up to her more and Juvia was more than elated to accept Gray's little acts of affection here and there.

"Where's Erza, by the way?" she asked no one in particular.

Juvia glanced at Lucy. "I saw Erza-san with Master."

"I wanted to tell her that I was planning on heading to Acalypha this weekend," Lucy said, absentmindedly tapping the glass with her finger. "I haven't visited them in awhile."

Juvia tilted her head, her curiosity piqued. "Who are you visiting?"

"My parents."

Juvia's hands balled in a fist and looked down, an unpleasant memory passing through her thoughts for a moment. "How is Lucy's father?"

Gray quickly turned to Juvia, his eyes wide in alarm. "Juvia," he said, his voice low.

"It's okay, Gray," Lucy jumped in right away, completely knowing that the Water mage had no idea. She was never one to tell people what goes on in her life. "My father passed away a month before we got released in Tenrou."

Juvia's eyes widened and bowed in apology. "Juvia is sorry!"

Lucy reached over the table and held one of Juvia's hands, a reassuring smile on her face. "It's okay! Not a lot of people here in the guild know, so really, it's okay," she squeezed her hand before letting it go.

"So does this mean you're not coming with us?" Happy asked, moving closer to the blonde and laying a paw on one of her hands.

Lucy picked up the blue Exceed and hugged him. "You know this is very important to me, Happy. And I promise to go with you guys on the next one."

Happy was satisfied with that. Whenever Lucy promises, she'll always pull through.

"Lucy, good to see you."

Lucy glanced up, her face lighting up as she spotted her scarlet-haired friend. "Erza!" She quickly scooted over to make space for her.

Erza settled into the seat beside Lucy, her gaze sweeping over the group. "Has Wendy chosen a job yet?"

Gray leaned back and shook his head. "Not yet. I think she needs a little nudge," he said, glancing over his shoulder. Their little healer and Sky Dragon Slayer was still by the job board, shifting nervously as she scanned the job requests. "You know how she is - always second-guessing herself."

"Speaking of jobs, Erza…" Lucy began, her palms growing clammy by the second. "I… I was wondering if -"

"You're wanting to go to Acalypha this weekend, right?" Erza chimed in, a soft, knowing smile on her face.

Lucy blinked, completely caught off-guard. "Y-yes."

"Just be sure to check in with Mira once you come back," Erza said, her tone gentle yet firm.

Lucy tilted her head, feeling happy and confused at the same time. "How did you know?" she had to ask.

"You always visit Acalypha around this time of the year," Erza replied, her lips curving into a small smile. "I made a note of it."

Erza may be rough around the edges sometimes, but she was the most caring and thoughtful when time calls for it. Without much thought, she threw her arms around the Requip mage, squeezing her tightly. "Thank you, Erza," she said softly, her voice full of affection.

Erza returned Lucy's hug, her hand gently patting the blonde's head. "I should go and help Wendy."

Lucy pulled back, smiling warmly. "I'm sure she'll pick a job that everyone will enjoy."

Erza rose from her seat. "I'll be right back."

As Erza walked off towards Wendy, Lucy let out a deep sigh of relief. "Well, that wasn't so bad," she muttered to herself, a small smile tugging at her lips.

With her weekend plans now clear, her mind began to buzz on how to spend the next two days without her team.

"I wish the guild wasn't so far away," Bickslow wailed. "I just want a beer."

"It's always a surprise to me how you're still not dead with all that beer you drink," Evergreen said offhandedly while snapping her fan open.

"I can't die right now, Ever. You'll miss me."

"You wish."

Laxus tuned out the usual bickering between Bickslow and Evergreen, his patience thinning from the relentless afternoon heat. All he wanted was to reach the guild and drink something cold.

As they neared the guild hall, something caught his attention. The distant hum of activity sounded unusually loud, even for Fairy Tail. He could hear laughter, shouts, and unfamiliar voices blending with the ones he recognized. His brows furrowed. "Is there something going on at the guild?" he asked.

Freed squinted his eyes towards the entrance, trying to make out the scene ahead. "Not that I'm aware of," he responded. "Why?"

"It's too loud in there," Laxus muttered, his frown deepening.

Bickslow snorted at that. "That ain't news, Boss."

Laxus ignored him, his curiosity pushing him to walk faster towards the guild. The closer they got, the clearer the scene became. The guild's double-doors were wide open, and the usual chaotic energy of Fairy Tail seemed to have tripled. A crowd of unfamiliar faces mingled with some of the guild members, and even more people appeared to be trying to head their way inside.

"What the hell is going on?" Laxus muttered under his breath, his eyes narrowing as he took in the sight before them.

"I'd suggest heading home for the day."

The group turned to see Cana casually leaning against a barrel of beer.

"What's going on in there?" Freed asked, his gaze flickering back to the bustling guild hall.

"Lucy happened," Cana said, sounding nonchalant.

"Lucy?" Laxus repeated.

Cana shrugged. "She's helping Mira out today and tomorrow. Word got out, and now every man in town seems to think it's a good time to visit the guild."

And that's when it hit him - the guild was filled mostly with men.

Bickslow's lips twitched, his gaze darting to Laxus whose eyes seemed to be getting sharper by the second. He was oh so tempted. But he kept his mouth shut. Barely.

Evergreen groaned in disgust. "Ugh, I refuse to be trapped in there with even more men," she turned to Cana. "Thanks for the warning." Without another word, she spun on her heel and left, her annoyance clearly evident.

Freed sighed, adjusting his collar. "I'll make sure no damage comes to the guild."

"Bicks, come on," Laxus ordered and walked towards the entrance of the guild.

The moment they stepped inside, the noise hit them like a tidal wave - cheering, laughter, and the unmistakable hum of excitement floated through the air. It was chaotic and it grated on Laxus' nerves. His eyes scanned the hall, landing on the bar where it was filled with love-struck men, waving their arms and shouting in an attempt to catch the attention of one Lucy Heartfilia. Lucy stood behind the bar, smiling politely as she tried her best to entertain every single one of them.

The sight was far from amusing to him, and judging by the expressions of the other guild members, they were on the same boat.

"Where's her team?" Bickslow asked, his eyes scanning the crowd, darting from one table to the next.

"Team Natsu took a job this morning," a voice answered near them.

Bickslow turned to see Kinana balancing a tray stacked with empty mugs. "Need a hand with that?" he offered, raising an eyebrow.

Kinana shook her head, giving him a warm, grateful smile. "Thanks, but I've got it! This happens more often than you think," she glanced briefly towards the bar, her expression softening. "Although, if you guys could keep an eye on Lucy, Mira and I would appreciate it."

Freed frowned slightly, shifting his weight onto his other leg. "Why would her team take a job without her? They're usually over-protective of her."

"She's got plans this weekend, I've heard," Kinana replied with a small shrug before turning back towards the bar. "I should get these cleaned up. Beer for you three?"

The trio nodded, offering their thanks as they made their way up to the second floor.

They climbed the stairs to the second floor and settled at their usual table, Bickslow and Freed casually chatting while Laxus remained quiet. His eyes, however, stayed fixed on the bar. Lucy stood behind it, effortlessly weaving through the chaos with a warm smile as she handed out mugs to eager customers.

Laxus' sharp gaze caught one man attempting to grab her arm, but Lucy evaded it smoothly, her smile never faltering.

"Seems like this isn't her first time," Freed commented, noticing the man's not-so-subtle way of grabbing the blonde's attention.

Laxus didn't respond, but his jaw tightened slightly as he continued to watch over her.

Fucking shameless assholes.

"It's a good thing she's not serving the tables," Freed commented, his brows furrowing in clear distaste.

Moments later, they spotted Kinana handing Lucy a tray with three mugs of beer and pointed in their direction. Lucy looked up, her face lighting up with a warm smile.

"I guess we're special," Bickslow muttered, a slight hint of playfulness in his tone as his eyes followed the blonde making her way towards them.

'Just a few more hours…' Lucy thought as she took the tray and left the bar. The moment she left the confines of the bar, she was instantly met by a pair of men blocking her path.

"Ah, Lucy-san, that must be our order," one of them said eagerly, his tone dripping with over-familiarity. "Our table's over there. You're more than welcome to join us."

Lucy managed a polite smile despite her patience already wearing thin. "Sorry, but this is for my friends -"

"Your friends see you everyday, but we don't. Indulge in us a little?" The man said in a nauseatingly sweet voice that made Lucy want to punch him in the face.

Lucy's grip on the tray tightened as she bit back the urge to snap at the man. Master clearly said earlier that she's not serving tables. "Sorry, I'm just following Master's -"

Before she could finish, a bruising grip clamped down on her arm, making her wince. She glanced down at the offending hand as anger flared in her chest. But before she could pull herself free, the man's eyes suddenly rolled all the way back to his head and crumpled to the floor, his body twitching.

Lucy froze. She did not do that.

"Lucy."

Ah, there's the culprit.

Lucy looked up and found Laxus glaring at the unconscious man. Not wanting to linger in the chaos, she quickly made her way up to the second floor. Once she reached him, she leaned in close. "He's not dead, is he?" she whispered.

"No," he responded gruffly as he went back to his seat while Lucy served their beers.

Freed gave her a nod of thanks before taking a sip of his drink. "You're quite the celebrity today," he commented.

Hugging the tray to her chest, she let out a frustrated sigh. "I don't even know how this happened. I just wanted to help at the bar since I didn't have much to do. Next thing I know, the guild's packed, and it's…" she trailed off, waving her hand to emphasize the chaos below.

"Why didn't you go on the job with your team?" Laxus asked, his gaze settling on the blonde.

Lucy met his gaze. "I have other plans this weekend," she responded, her voice steady.

"Oooh~, with your boyfriend?" Bickslow teased as he waggled his eyebrows at the blonde.

Lucy snorted and rolled her eyes. "I don't even want one right now…" she muttered more to herself, but they all caught it anyway. She smoothed out her brown skirt and flashed them a quick wave. "Just some personal errands. Anyway, I should head back to the bar." With that, she turned and headed back downstairs, her ponytail swaying behind her.

Freed leaned back and sighed. "I think you just scared her off, Bickslow."

"What? I just asked a question!"

Lucy placed the last glass in the drying rack and let out a content sigh. "All done, Mira!" she called out.

"Thank you so much for helping out today, Lucy." Mira smiled warmly as she held out a strawberry smoothie in a to-go cup.

Lucy's eyes lit up. "Oh, thank you, Mira!" She eagerly grabbed the drink and took a long sip, humming in delight. "Your smoothies are seriously the best!"

Mira slung her bag over her shoulder and grabbed her coat, casting a concerned glance at Lucy. "Are you sure you want to work the bar tomorrow? Today was… well, a bit unexpected, to say the least."

Lucy offered an apologetic smile. "I'm really sorry. I honestly didn't think today would turn out like that. I hope I'm not causing too much trouble."

"Oh no, don't worry!" Mira said, giving the blonde a reassuring smile. "If anything, I'm sure Master is thrilled, especially since the guild has… well, a few debts to settle." Then, a playful glint suddenly sparkled in her bright, blue eyes.

"But you should start heading out now though," she added, her voice teasing. "Looks like your boyfriend is waiting."

Lucy choked on air. "My what now?!" she spluttered, coughing and blinking back tears.

"Lucy."

Her blood ran cold at the sound of the deep voice behind her. Slowly, she turned around, finding none other than Laxus standing there with an eyebrow raised and a knowing smirk tugging at his lips. "You… didn't hear that, right?" she asked nervously.

Laxus crossed his arms, amusement dancing in his bluish-grey eyes. "What do you want me to say?"

"That you didn't?"

He chuckled. "Alright, I didn't."

Lucy wasn't sure if that made her feel better or worse.

Just then, Mira let out an excited squeal and started daydreaming about 'brown-haired, blue or grey-eyed babies'.

Lucy's face turned crimson, but Laxus didn't even blink. "We should go," he said, completely ignoring Mira's antics. "It's getting late."

"You really don't have to," Lucy protested lightly, although she couldn't deny the warmth that blossomed in her chest as she glanced at him.

"Bickslow spotted a couple of guys waiting outside earlier," he said, his eyes boring into hers. "We're not taking any chances."

Understanding what he meant, she took her coat from the counter and draped it over her shoulders as they made their way to the guild doors. "Sorry about today," she said quietly, falling into step beside him.

"Don't be sorry," he said firmly. "You just wanted to help. It's not your fault they're assholes."

Lucy let out a soft laugh. "You're right. Thanks again, by the way."

Laxus gave a simple nod in response and buried his hands in his pockets. It was quiet, save for the steady rhythm of their footsteps on the cobblestoned path and the distant bursts of laughter and chatter from club-goers nearby.

"Do you usually head home this late at night?" she asked softly, breaking the silence.

He glanced at the blonde beside him. "Not always," he responded, his tone calm and steady. "What about you?"

Lucy shook her head, her gaze drifting upward to the night sky. "I'd rather stay home and do something that others consider boring. Parties were never really my thing."

He raised an eyebrow at that. "That explains why we almost never see you at the parties that the guild hosts."

Lucy gave a sheepish smile. "I usually stick close to Mira and Wendy so I don't get roped into Cana's drinking games."

Laxus smirked. "Smart choice."

As they continued walking, Lucy began sharing stories about past guild parties. Being the sober one most of the time, she had plenty of funny stories to tell and that made Laxus listen with genuine interest considering that he was on an exile during some of those times.

It was then Lucy realized: Laxus may be the perfect epitome of a glowering hulk… but he was surprisingly easy to talk to.

And oddly enough, she found herself liking that more than she expected.

As they finally rounded a corner, Lucy's apartment building came into view. A few more steps and they were at the stairs of her apartment building. "Well, this is me," she said softly, glancing up to find him looking at her with an unreadable expression. "Thanks again. I hope I didn't pull you away from anything important."

Laxus shook his head. "I'll stay here until you're inside."

Lucy nodded and made her way up the stairs. She unlocked her door, but before stepping in, she glanced back at him with a gentle smile. "I… really enjoyed talking to you, Laxus. I hope we can talk more next time."

Something within him shifted, and all of a sudden, his entire being felt a little lighter. He smirked. "I look forward to next time then."

"Good night, Laxus," she said softly before slipping inside and shutting the door with a quiet click.

He stood there for a moment, listening to the silence before turning to leave. As he walked away, he glanced up at the sky, the corners of his mouth curving into a rare smile.

Maybe, just maybe, the universe was finally starting to play in his favor.

Lucy stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the delicate straps of her white dress. The soft, flowy fabric draped effortlessly over her figure, its sweetheart neckline adding a touch of elegance. The bodice hugged her curves perfectly, highlighting her thin waist, while the skirt flared out just enough to create a graceful, feminine silhouette.

She had left her hair down today, deciding against her usual updo. It wasn't often that she dressed like this, but visiting her parents was a special occasion. After one final glance, she smoothed the skirt and turned to the window. The sun was shining brightly, and the clear skies lifted her spirits.

Maybe today would be a good day after all.

Grabbing her sling bag, Lucy stepped out of her apartment and made her way towards the train station. She chose her usual route along the canal, smiling as the men on the boats called out their warnings for her to stay clear of the edge.

At the train station, she purchased her ticket and waited on the platform when a familiar voice startled her.

"Lucy?"

Turning around, she spotted Evergreen with a curious expression on her face. Lucy blinked. Was it just her or were people just popping up right behind her?

"Evergreen, hi!" Lucy greeted with a warm smile. "Heading out?"

Evergreen blinked for a moment before finally responding. "For a job, yes. I'm waiting for the three idiots to arrive." Her gaze flicked over Lucy's outfit. "You look all dolled up."

Lucy chuckled lightly, suddenly feeling a little self-conscious. "I'm off to visit my parents."

"Ever! Who's that hot - Cosplayer?!"

Evergreen glared at the incoming Seith mage while Lucy chuckled nervously, leaning towards the brunette. "Is he always like that?" she whispered.

"Unfortunately," Evergreen said flatly, snapping her fan shut.

"You two better not be talking about me!" Bickslow called out, finally reaching the girls. His mischievous eyes landed on Lucy and tilted his head. "Okay, you look like you're heading out on a date, Cosplayer."

Lucy sighed. She should've known. "No Bickslow, I'm not."

"Lucy?"

She turned to find Freed and Laxus approaching, both eyeing her with curiosity. She waved at them with a friendly smile. "Hey, guys. Good luck on your job."

Freed nodded but glanced at her outfit. "Where are you headed?"

"I'm going to -"

Before Lucy could finish, a sudden gust of wind interrupted her as the station's PA system crackled to life.

This is the train bound for Acalypha. Please stand back behind the yellow line and wait.

Lucy turned back to the group and waved. "Sorry, that's my train. I'll see you guys around!" Without waiting for a response, she spun on her heel and boarded, quickly finding a seat.

Freed tilted his head, watching her through the window as the train prepared to leave. "Did she say where she was going?"

"To see her parents," Evergreen answered, her tone softer than usual as she partially hid her expression with her fan.

"I see," Freed murmured, mirroring her somber tone.

Bickslow, for once, said nothing as he kept his gaze steady in front of him.

Laxus stood silent, arms crossed, his eyes following the departing train until it disappeared from his sight.

"Laxus."

He turned to look at Freed holding out a small pill bottle with blue pills inside. He raised an eyebrow at the Rune mage. "I don't do drugs, Freed."

Freed let out a sigh. He wasn't sure if Laxus was trying to be funny or not. "This works the same as Wendy's 'Troia' spell. You should take one. Hopefully it'll make the whole trip bearable for you."

Laxus narrowed his eyes at the pill bottle. "Where'd you get that?"

"Cosplayer," Bickslow chimed in as he eyed Laxus, watching his reaction. "She gave some of her stash to Freed for you."

Laxus blinked and eyed the pill being held out by Freed. He knew Wendy's 'Troia' worked wonders on Dragon Slayers. Heck, even that huge walking pile of iron scrap would seek out their little Slayer whenever he would go out on long jobs.

He sighed. He took the pill and popped it in his mouth. "C'mon," he said gruffly.

Freed blinked in surprise. "That… was easy," he muttered to himself as he trailed behind Laxus, pocketing the pill bottle.

Bickslow simply smirked. Of course it was. He only had to say the magic word, that's all.

"Hey Mom. Hey Dad," Lucy said softly as she placed a bouquet of white lilies on each tombstone. The fragrance of the flowers together with the gentle breeze carried a sense of peace within her. She spread out a blanket between the graves and sat down.

"I know it's been a while," she murmured, her fingers absentmindedly playing with the hem of her white dress. "Things at the guild have been… busy."

She paused, a small smile tugging at her lips as her gaze shifted to the carved names of her parents. "Did you know? Natsu said something funny a few months back. He thinks Levy might be pregnant," a soft chuckle escaped her. "Wendy and I had a hunch during the party for my book release. Gajeel and Levy thought they were being subtle, but honestly? It seems like they tend to forget we have other dragon slayers in the guild."

For hours, Lucy stayed there, talking to her parents as if they were right beside her. She shared stories about the guild, her friends, and the small joys and challenges of her days. It was a one-sided conversation, but to her, it felt mutual, like the wind carried the voices of her parents.

By the time she glanced at the horizon, the sky had turned a warm shade of orange, seeing the sun dipping closer to the edge. She sighed softly, brushing a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "Well… I'll be back tomorrow, okay?"

Rising to her feet, she dusted off her dress and took one last look at their names. "I miss you both," she whispered, her voice cracking. Then, turning away, she began her walk out of the estate.

It was always the same - turning her back on them was the hardest part. Her chest tightened and her eyes began to sting, but she took a deep breath and exhaled, composing herself.

As she walked along the quiet path, she noticed a figure approaching in the distance. A tall man, dressed sharply in a black suit and carrying what looked like a bouquet of flowers.

As they drew closer, Lucy caught a clearer view - the man's face was unfamiliar. When their eyes met, his steps faltered, and a look of surprise flickered across his face as if he recognized her.

"Lady Heartfilia?"

Lucy blinked. Did she know this man?

Sensing her confusion, he offered a courteous bow. "My apologies," he began, his voice smooth. "You must not recognize me. I am Duke Sawarr of the Junelle family."

Lucy's eyebrow twitched. Of course. This was the man she was once arranged to marry years ago. "Duke Sawarr," she greeted, her tone clipped but polite.

"I'm here to pay my respects to your parents," he said softly, holding up the bouquet of flowers in his hand. "I hope you don't mind if I leave these."

Lucy hesitated, her initial irritation ebbing away slightly. He seemed… calmer than she remembered, far from the haughty demeanor he once had. "I'd appreciate that. Thank you," she said quietly, stepping aside to let him pass. She then resumed her walk, eager to leave the estate.

"Lady Heartfilia?"

Lucy exhaled, forcing herself to stop and turn back, her expression neutral. "Yes?"

"Are… you heading back to Magnolia?" he asked, tilting his head slightly.

Lucy blinked. "N-no," she replied cautiously. "I'll be visiting again tomorrow."

His eyes lit up at her words, to which Lucy found a bit… odd. "Are you staying at the inn just right outside the estate?"

Lucy tilted her head, suddenly feeling a little wary. "Why do you want to know?" she asked.

Sawarr immediately averted his gaze, rubbing the back of his neck with a sheepish smile. "I… I just thought it would be nice to catch up," he said quietly.

While she was curious as to what he had to say to her since they were never close to begin with, she was exhausted and just wanted the day all to herself. "Maybe next time," she said politely, offering a small smile. "I am feeling a little tired. Sorry about that."

The glimmer in his eyes dimmed a little. "Of course, I understand. I'm sorry for keeping you."

"It was… nice seeing you, Duke Sawarr," she said softly. "I'll be in Fairy Tail, if you need anything."

The light in his eyes brightened back up. "It was great seeing you as well, Lady Heartfilia. I'll be sure to visit if I ever find myself in Magnolia.

Lucy gave him a polite nod before turning and continuing her walk back to the inn. Upon arrival, the elderly innkeeper greeted her warmly, immediately recognizing her and insisting on giving her a free one-night stay.

Grateful for the kindness, Lucy settled into her room, her footsteps slow and deliberate as she crossed her room to the small window that had a view of her old home. She gazed out, the faint outline of the Heartfilia estate visible in the distance, bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun.

She let out a soft sigh, wiping at her eyes before any tears could fall. She went to her bed and laid down, pulling the blanket over herself. The exhaustion from the day's emotions began to take over, and slowly, she found herself drifting off, hoping for a dreamless sleep.

"You've been awfully silent lately, Sire," Bard remarked, his silver hair glinting as he approached the balcony. Before him, his King sat in quiet contemplation. He gazed at the ocean waves that sparkled like the stars under the moonlight.

The man didn't turn. "You've met her, Bard. What do you think of her?" he asked, his deep voice cutting through the quiet.

Bard hesitated, studying his King's profile. Ever since they found out that a dominant was residing in the same continent as him, he had been… unpredictable, to say the least. Their stay, originally planned for no more than a month or two, had stretched into four. It was baffling.

He had seen no entertainment in watching an unknown blonde girl who had no idea that an Eikon sleeps within her.

"She's… an interesting character," Bard said slowly, not really knowing what to say considering he had only met the girl once. "She carries a fascinating type of magic that our Kingdom does not have."

The man finally stirred, his fingers brushing through his hair as his gaze followed two bikini-clad women laughing and running along the shore below. "Whatever magic she possesses," he began, his tone sharp. "Does not even hold a candle to the magic of the Eikon that slumbers within her."

"Forgive me, Sire," Bard said after a pause, his curiosity overriding. "I'm well aware that you've crossed paths with her as well. What are your thoughts?"

The man tilted his head back, his eyes looking at the stars. "I'm not certain yet," he admitted. "Her hair though… it's quite attractive."

A small smile appeared on Bard's lips. "You've always had a preference for women with long, elegant hair, Sire."

The man simply hummed in response. "That, I do." He shrugged off his coat and tossed it carelessly to Bard, who caught it without effort. "What was the name of the town that she was in again?"

"Magnolia," Bard responded promptly.

The man gave a faint nod. "We'll head back soon." Without another word, he turned and walked back into the room, already removing his clothes as he headed for the bathroom.

Bard bowed, his expression unreadable. "As you wish, my King."

Author's Note:

Pretty Lucy-centric & a bit boring, I know, but we'll get into the good stuff as soon as I'm done with the introductions. Hope y'all enjoyed this one!

Let me know your thoughts! =)

Love lots,
nana