A/N Hey everyone, Yukaru14 here! I'm excited to share this new story with you all. The inspiration for this piece came from the game If My Heart Had Wings, which you can find on the App Store. It's a game that captivated me with its unique approach to storytelling, and I wanted to explore similar themes within the Fairy Tail universe.
I have a few other stories in the works as well, but I'll save those for later and focus on this one for now. This story will primarily concentrate on the development of the Natsu as he deals with misadventures, dilemmas and situations that will change him as the story progresses, diving deep into their journey and relationships with various characters. You'll also notice that the narrative will follow "routes"—which means there will be side stories and different character arcs depending on the choices he makes.
A quick note: Some of our favorite Fairy Tail girls may not be included in this story for specific reasons related to the plot. So if you don't see your preferred heroine right away, please don't feel discouraged or upset! I promise that many familiar faces will still get their time to shine.
If there's a character you'd love to see make an appearance, feel free to leave your suggestions in the comments. I'm open to crack ships and unconventional pairings, so feel free to be creative. Once this story receives a certain number of likes, I'll post a poll to let you all decide which character should be introduced next.
As for the setting: This story takes place in the year X788. The events of the Tenrou Island arc and the subsequent seven-year time skip from the canon timeline will not be part of this narrative. So, we'll be skipping over that particular arc, allowing us to explore a timeline without those complications.
One last thing—each route will offer a unique adventure depending on the heroine you choose. This means the storyline and character interactions will vary, making each route distinct and engaging. So buckle up, and I hope you enjoy the journey!
Natsu (21) years old
Wendy (16) years old
Disclaimer: I don't own Fairy Tail or its elements. All goes to Hiro Mashima. All i own are plots and potential OCS
-Meeting the Sky Maiden-
**Flashback: Year X784**
In the vibrant heart of Magnolia, where the air thrummed with the fervor of celebration, Natsu Dragneel, the indomitable fire mage of Fairy Tail, stood at the threshold of departure. Around him, the guild hall pulsated with life, the festivities casting a warm glow upon the gathering of mages.
Amidst the revelry, a voice, soft yet resonant, pierced the jovial air, calling out to him with a poignant plea. Turning, Natsu's gaze fell upon Wendy Marvell, the fledgling mage whose presence had woven its way into the fabric of Fairy Tail.
Her cerulean locks cascaded like ribbons of moonlight, framing a visage wrought with concern and unwavering loyalty. Her words, tinged with an undercurrent of longing, hung in the air like delicate petals caught in a gentle breeze.
"Natsu-san, where are you going? Aren't you going to stay to enjoy the party?" Wendy's voice, though soft-spoken, carried the weight of unspoken fears and unshed tears, a testament to the depth of her connection to the guild and its inhabitants.
For Natsu, the decision to embark on a journey beyond Magnolia's borders weighed heavily upon his heart, a testament to the restlessness that stirred within his soul. Despite the allure of camaraderie and revelry, the call of adventure beckoned him forth, its siren song echoing in the recesses of his mind.
"As much as I would like to stay and enjoy the festivities, Wendy, there is a world beyond this city—a world ripe with untold wonders and boundless horizons," Natsu explained, his voice tinged with a hint of wistful longing. "I seek to chart a course through the unknown, to traverse landscapes both familiar and foreign."
With each word spoken, the air grew heavy with the weight of impending departure, the specter of separation casting a pall over the guild hall. Yet, amidst the somber farewell, a glimmer of hope danced in the depths of Wendy's gaze, a beacon of light amidst the encroaching shadows.
As Natsu Dragneel stood at the threshold of a new journey, Wendy's words echoed in his mind, imbued with a sense of determination and unwavering resolve. Her proclamation resonated deeply within him, stirring emotions of pride and admiration for the young Sky Dragon Slayer who had grown under his wing.
"I'll be waiting for you, Natsu-san—no matter how long it takes," Wendy's voice carried the weight of her commitment, a testament to her unwavering loyalty and steadfast devotion. Her words echoed with a sense of longing and determination, a reflection of her unwavering resolve to become stronger, not just for herself, but for the bonds they shared as members of Fairy Tail.
In response, Natsu's heart swelled with a mixture of pride and affection for his young protege. He saw in Wendy not just a fellow guildmate, but a cherished companion whose unwavering spirit and determination inspired him to push forward, no matter the challenges that lay ahead.
"No matter the trials we face or the paths we tread," Natsu spoke, his voice filled with the promise of brighter tomorrows and the enduring legacy of Fairy Tail. His words carried a sense of reassurance and encouragement, a reminder that their bonds transcended time and space, anchoring them together even in the face of adversity.
And so, as Natsu embarked on his journey into the unknown, his heart brimming with determination and hope, he carried with him the promise of reunion and the indomitable spirit of Fairy Tail. For in the ebb and flow of time, amidst the tumultuous currents of fate, the bonds of camaraderie and friendship remained steadfast, a guiding light in the darkness, a beacon of hope for all who dared to dream.
Flashback end:
4 years later...
It had been four years since the calm days of the year X784 and the day Natsu left on his journey, and in that time, the city of Magnolia had become something entirely new. Gone were the sleepy streets and quaint corners of a modest town. What stood in its place now was a thriving city, its pulse in sync with the heartbeat of the magic that flowed through its veins.
The morning sun, rising slowly over the horizon, spilled golden light across the rooftops, casting long shadows on the cobblestone streets below. Birds darted between the buildings, their wings catching the light as they soared through the crisp, morning air. Even at this early hour, Magnolia was alive, teeming with activity and the hum of life.
A gentle breeze swept through the streets, carrying the scent of fresh bread from the bakeries and the sharp tang of magic that was ever-present in this city of wizards. Along the broad avenues, colorful stalls and vendors were already setting up for the day, their wares on full display for anyone passing by. Vibrant banners in shades of blue, red, and gold fluttered from the rooftops, emblazoned with symbols of guilds and merchants, welcoming anyone who wandered into the heart of Magnolia.
The marketplace was a symphony of sights, sounds, and smells. The stone-paved square was lined with carts and stands overflowing with goods from across Fiore and beyond. There were freshly picked fruits from farmlands outside the city, magical trinkets and talismans crafted by skilled artisans, and shimmering potions that sparkled like liquid gems. A group of mages in training practiced simple spells off to the side, sending bursts of light and gentle flares into the air, their laughter echoing as their magic flickered and sparked.
People from all walks of life moved through the marketplace. Adventurers, merchants, and townsfolk alike filled the streets, weaving between each other in a seemingly endless dance. A mother guided her small child by the hand, stopping at a stall selling hand-carved toys, while a group of teenagers in guild uniforms hurried by, their arms loaded with supplies, clearly on their way to prepare for their next job. Above it all, the buildings of Magnolia stretched tall, their towering forms a testament to the city's growth and prosperity over the last four years.
The once quiet town had become a hub of trade and magic, with new businesses sprouting up on every corner. Alongside the old, familiar shops stood new establishments—restaurants, guild branches, and magical boutiques—that catered to both the everyday citizen and the elite mage alike. Even the roads themselves had changed. While the old stone paths remained, new paved roads connected the districts, allowing for easier travel through the bustling city. Horse-drawn carriages and magic-fueled transports rumbled along, carrying passengers from one part of Magnolia to another with ease.
Through the streets walked an elderly couple, arm in arm, moving at a leisurely pace. They passed a group of rowdy adventurers, their faces lit with excitement as they swapped stories of their latest jobs. The air buzzed with magic, thick with energy, as if the very city itself was alive and waiting for the next adventure to unfold.
As the couple reached a quiet corner of the market, they stopped to gaze at a large mural painted on the side of a building. The image depicted a fierce battle between mages, their spells clashing in a vibrant explosion of color. Below the mural, an artist sat cross-legged, adding the final touches to the scene. His hands moved deftly as he brushed strokes of paint onto the wall, bringing the figures to life with every stroke. The artist, like so many others in Magnolia, was thriving in this era of creativity and progress, his work admired by passersby who paused to appreciate the story the mural told.
Further down the road, the grand silhouette of the Fairy Tail guild hall came into view, towering above the surrounding buildings. The hall's familiar form had not changed much in the past four years, but its presence felt even stronger now, as if it had grown with the city itself. The large emblem of the Fairy Tail guild, emblazoned on the front of the building, gleamed in the sunlight, a beacon of strength and camaraderie. The doors of the guild hall were wide open, and even from a distance, the sounds of laughter and shouting could be heard, mixing with the lively atmosphere of the city.
Just outside the guild, a group of children played, running in circles and shouting as they pretended to be mages, their wooden swords clashing together in mock battles. Their joyful cries echoed through the streets, a reminder of the innocence and freedom that still thrived in this fast-growing city.
Not far from them, a team of young mages exited the guild hall, their uniforms crisp and clean, signifying their readiness for a new mission. Their leader, a tall mage with a confident stride, held a request in his hand, and his team followed closely behind as they made their way toward the city gates, eager to prove themselves. Magnolia had become a place where dreams were pursued, where mages of all ranks could find work, companionship, and fame if they had the strength and determination to earn it.
In the heart of the bustling guild, where the early afternoon cast a golden glow upon the bustling hall, Wendy's silent anguish echoed amidst the laughter and camaraderie that once defined Team Natsu. As Lucy, Erza, and Mirajane gathered for their usual conversation, Wendy's lingering emotions simmered beneath the surface, a testament to the void left by Natsu's departure. Meanwhile, Gray engaged in a friendly competition with Elfman, Lisanna tended to some errands, Gajeel and Levy exchanged playful banter, and other members went about their own business, each absorbed in their daily routines.
"So Wendy, how did it go? The request, I mean..." Lucy's inquiry pierced through the facade of normalcy, prompting Wendy to recount her recent mission. Each word carried the weight of her unspoken struggles, a reflection of the challenges she faced as a lone mage in a changing world.
Wendy's recounting took a turn as she delved into the aftermath of the mission. "Well... the request went well without a hitch. But before I could leave, the client tried asking me out to dinner," Wendy explained, her voice tinged with annoyance.
"I politely declined, saying that I wasn't interested. But the client kept pestering me, saying he was not going to take no for an answer. So as a result, I slapped him in the face and told him to leave me alone."
"Wow, I'm sorry you had to go through that Wendy." Lucy somberly spoke. It was only a matter of time before it would start happening to the bluenette.
As Lucy prepared to depart, she looked over to Wendy. "Hey If you ever need a girl's night hit me up. That way we can go out and have some fun." Lucy offered as a way to lighten up the blue-haired girl's mood.
"Maybe if I'm feeling up for it. Thank you for the invite Lucy-san."
"It's no problem I'm always happy to help out a friend in need." Lucy gave a slight smile before taking her leave.
Erza and Mirajane turned their attention to Wendy, their concern was evident in the furrow of their brows. "Is something wrong, Wendy?" Erza's voice held a note of gentle inquiry, her eyes reflecting the depth of her worry.
With a heavy heart, Wendy laid bare her inner turmoil, her words a poignant reflection of the loneliness that consumed her soul. "It's just that... it's been 4 years since he left the guild and he hasn't returned yet. I feel lonely... The guild isn't the same without him," she confessed, her voice tinged with sadness.
Erza and Mirajane, pillars of strength and compassion, offered solace in the face of Wendy's sorrow. Each moment of silence spoke volumes, a silent acknowledgment of the bond that united them in both joy and sorrow.
Despite Wendy's attempts to mask her pain, the weight of her solitude lingered, a haunting reminder of the friend she longed to see return. As the guild thrived with life, Wendy's heart remained tethered to the memory of Natsu, a beacon of hope amidst the shadows of uncertainty.
As Lucy bid farewell, Erza and Mirajane remained by Wendy's side, their presence a source of comfort in her hour of need. "We're here for you, Wendy," Erza's voice was steady, her unwavering support a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship that defined Fairy Tail.
In the quiet solitude of the guild hall, Wendy's thoughts drifted to the memories of days gone by, a tapestry woven with moments of joy and camaraderie. Each memory held a piece of Natsu's spirit, a reminder of the bond they shared as members of Team Natsu. As the day continued onward, Wendy's heart found solace in the warmth of her companions' embrace. Despite the trials and tribulations that lay ahead, she knew that she was not alone.
With renewed determination, Wendy vowed to carry on, her spirit unbroken by the passage of time. For in the heart of Fairy Tail, hope burned eternal, a guiding light in the darkness, a beacon of hope for all who dared to dream.
Amid her friends' reassurance, Wendy's heart weighed heavy with sadness and loneliness. Despite their unwavering support, a shroud of depression enveloped her, casting a shadow over the once vibrant guild hall.
As Lucy, Erza, and Mirajane offered their solace, Wendy's spirit remained adrift in a sea of uncertainty. The memories of Natsu, once a source of joy, now served as a painful reminder of the void left in his absence.
Try as she might, Wendy found herself unable to shake the melancholy that clung to her like a cloak. Each word of encouragement fell upon deaf ears, drowned out by the echo of her despair.
In the quiet moments that followed, Wendy retreated into the recesses of her mind, grappling with the overwhelming weight of her emotions. Despite her friends' unwavering allegiance, the specter of loneliness loomed large, casting a pall over her once bright spirit.
As the afternoon sun dipped below the horizon, Wendy's heart remained heavy with sorrow, a testament to the enduring pain of separation. In the darkness that enveloped her, a flicker of hope remained a fragile beacon amidst the shadows—a reminder that even in the depths of despair, light still had the power to pierce the darkness.
Somewhere near the mountains...
A solitary figure stood at the edge of the mountain range, his pink locks fluttering in the breeze as he surveyed the city below. Relief washed over him as he beheld the familiar sights, albeit transformed by the passage of time. With a sack slung over his shoulder, he descended the rugged path, memories flooding his mind with each step.
The journey through the rocky passage was swift, the path well-trodden by years of absence. As he ventured deeper into the woods, nostalgia gripped him, recalling the countless adventures and trials that had shaped him. Pausing at a familiar clearing, he soaked in the verdant landscape, the echoes of bygone days reverberating in his mind.
"It feels good to finally be back," he murmured, a wistful smile playing upon his lips. Memories of carefree days with Lisanna danced before his eyes, the unchanged beauty of the forest a testament to the enduring nature of his past.
Emerging from the woods, he approached the city entrance, its bustling streets a stark contrast to the quaint town he once knew. Magnolia had evolved into a sprawling metropolis, its skyline dominated by towering structures that spoke of progress and change.
"I wonder how much the guild has changed," he mused, anticipation coursing through his veins as he ventured deeper into the heart of the city. Amidst the throng of passersby, whispers followed in his wake, the recognition of his iconic pink hair sparking murmurs of surprise and speculation.
"Hey, does the guy look familiar or what...?" A voice broke through the crowd, tinged with intrigue and curiosity.
"What do you mean by that?" Another voice joined the chorus, the air alive with anticipation.
"Look at his pink hair. Doesn't it remind you of someone?" The conversation swirled around Natsu like a whirlwind, igniting memories of days long past.
"Wait! I know who that is now. That's the salamander." Recognition dawned upon the crowd, a ripple of excitement coursing through their midst.
"No way?! He's back?! Well, that's a big surprise." Disbelief hung in the air, mingling with the palpable sense of awe.
"I guess things are gonna change now that he's here... hehe." Laughter bubbled up from the crowd, a chorus of anticipation heralding Natsu's long-awaited return.
Unfazed by the attention, Natsu pressed on, his gaze fixed upon the guild that loomed before him like a beacon of hope. The building, once a familiar landmark, now stood grand and imposing, surrounded by bustling activity that stirred a familiar sense of excitement within him.
As he stepped through the guild doors, chaos greeted him with open arms. The interior buzzed with energy, familiar faces engaged in lively sparring matches and animated conversations. Natsu's heart swelled with emotion, the promise of new beginnings and old friendships beckoning him home to Fairy Tail once more.
The guild hall buzzed with activity as members went about their usual routines, the air thick with anticipation and excitement. Gray lounged against a nearby pillar, his demeanor nonchalant as he observed the commotion unfolding around him. Gajeel leaned against the bar, a faint smirk playing on his lips as he surveyed the scene before him. Both mages, known for their rivalry with Natsu, exchanged knowing glances, their expressions masked in stoicism.
Suddenly, a voice pierced through the chatter, commanding the attention of every guild member present. Heads turned, gazes locking onto a familiar figure standing at the entrance, his toothy grin lighting up the room. Erza, Lucy, Mirajane, and the others froze in disbelief as they laid eyes on the unmistakable form of Natsu Dragneel.
For a moment, time seemed to stand still as the guild absorbed the shock of Natsu's return. Memories of their fiery comrade flooded their minds, a torrent of emotions swirling beneath the surface. Erza's heart swelled with joy, her eyes misting with unshed tears as she beheld the sight she thought she might never see again. Lucy's breath caught in her throat, a rush of nostalgia washing over her as she remembered the adventures they shared.
Mirajane's gaze softened, her lips curving into a smile as she watched the reunion unfold before her. The entire guild remained transfixed, suspended in a moment of pure disbelief and elation.
Natsu's presence, once a pillar of strength and camaraderie, filled the room with an electric energy, igniting the spirits of those who had long awaited his return. His fiery determination, his indomitable spirit—traits that defined him as Fairy Tail's brightest star—now burned brighter than ever before.
But amidst the chaos, there was a somber undertone—a realization of the pain and longing that had lingered in Natsu's absence. Erza and Mirajane exchanged a glance, their hearts heavy with the knowledge of Wendy's struggles in Natsu's absence. They understood the weight of his return, the responsibility that now rested upon his shoulders.
As Natsu rose to his feet, his voice rang out with a familiar fervor, his determination unwavering in the face of adversity. The guild erupted into a flurry of motion, members rushing forward to greet their long-lost comrade. In their haste, they overwhelmed Natsu with their exuberance, sending him crashing to the floor.
His spirit, ever resilient, soared beyond the confines of his body, a testament to the unbreakable bonds that bound them together. Erza and Mirajane acted swiftly, guiding his soul back into its earthly vessel with practiced ease.
As Natsu rose to his feet, his trademark grin firmly in place, Erza and Mirajane couldn't help but feel a surge of pride. Their friend had returned, his spirit unyielding, his resolve unshakeable.
But amidst the jubilation, there lingered a shadow—a reminder of the pain that had plagued their guild in Natsu's absence. Erza and Mirajane exchanged a silent vow, their determination mirrored in the depths of their unwavering gazes.
As Natsu made his intentions known, a heavy silence settled over the guild hall. The usual boisterous chatter of Fairy Tail faded, leaving only the weight of Natsu's words hanging in the air. Erza and Mirajane stood across from him, their eyes clouded with a mix of concern and understanding.
Natsu's voice broke the silence, quieter now but filled with emotion. "I promised Wendy I'd come back after my journey. I didn't just leave to get stronger—I left to mature, to make sure that when I came back, I'd be ready to face her again. We promised each other we'd be stronger the next time we met."
Mirajane's expression softened, but there was a sadness in her smile. "You've kept that promise, Natsu. You've grown stronger, there's no doubt about that. But you need to understand… Wendy has changed too."
Erza stepped forward, her eyes locked on Natsu, her voice steady yet tinged with a sadness she rarely let show. "Wendy's strength has grown in more ways than one. She's pushed herself harder than anyone expected, training every day, just like you. But it wasn't only strength that shaped her over these four years."
Mirajane nodded in agreement. "The loneliness… it's been with her all this time, Natsu. She's always believed in your promise, but waiting for you wasn't easy. You were like a brother to her, someone she looked up to. And when you left, even though she understood why, the absence—it affected her deeply."
Natsu's fists tightened as he absorbed their words. He had trained relentlessly during his journey, never letting up, all in the hope that when he finally returned, he'd be strong enough to stand by Wendy's side again. But the guilt gnawed at him—he hadn't thought about the toll his absence would take on her heart.
"I didn't want her to feel that way," Natsu muttered, frustration and guilt mixing in his voice. "I left to protect her. I thought if I became stronger, I'd be able to keep her safe. I didn't know..."
Erza's expression softened slightly. "She knew why you left, Natsu. But even knowing doesn't take away the loneliness. Over time, she started to close herself off. She stopped talking about you. It's like a part of her slowly faded."
"But there's still time," Mirajane added, her voice hopeful. "You're here now. Wendy still believes in you, and she needs you, Natsu. More than ever."
Natsu's eyes lit with determination. "I'm here to make things right. I won't let her feel that loneliness again. We promised to get stronger together—and I'm not going to break that promise."
Erza's gaze softened further. "Then go to her, Natsu. Show her that you're here for her now."
As he disappeared into the bustling streets of Magnolia, Erza and Mirajane watched with bated breath, their hopes riding on the shoulders of their fiery comrade.
"Now it's up to him to get Wendy out of her depression," Mirajane whispered, her voice tinged with hope and uncertainty.
"And hopefully, she can smile again." Erza nodded in agreement, her gaze fixed on the horizon as she offered a silent prayer for Natsu's success. In the heart of Fairy Tail, amidst the laughter and camaraderie that echoed through the guild hall, a new chapter began to unfold—a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship and the unbreakable spirit of Fairy Tail.
In the Sakura Hills southwest...
The hills were marvelous as always, adorned with blooming flowers and lush greenery basking in the warm embrace of the sun's radiance. Pink petals danced gracefully in the gentle breeze, signaling the arrival of early spring. The distant hum of nature filled the air, but for Wendy, the serenity was tinged with a quiet sorrow. The hills, though beautiful, felt empty without the familiar voices and laughter she once shared with those she held dear.
Amidst this serene landscape stood Wendy, her silky blue hair cascading in waves as it fluttered in the wind, a testament to the tranquility of the moment. She gazed out at the sprawling sea of blossoms, her heart caught between the weight of memories and the hope that had long been buried beneath years of loneliness.
Her attire bore a resemblance to her Edolas counterpart, a testament to her growth and evolution over the years. A blue-yellow top adorned with delicate frills along the edges accentuated her grace, while a matching blue-yellow skirt, reaching down to her knees, lent her a soft, elegant appearance. She looked every bit the person who had endured so much, yet her eyes held a different story—a story of longing, resilience, and change.
As Wendy wandered through the lush greenery, her thoughts began to drift, memories of past days flooding back. The laughter of her friends, the camaraderie of the guild, the warmth of Natsu's presence. But those days felt like a distant dream now, one she clung to as a fragile thread of hope in the middle of an uncertain world.
Four years had passed since Natsu's departure, four long years filled with moments of silence and unanswered questions. At first, she had waited eagerly for his return, thinking that he would come back soon, as he always did after his travels. But with each passing year, the hope grew smaller, the waiting harder. Wendy had grown stronger, no doubt about that. Her magic, her abilities—they had all matured. But her heart? Her heart had only grown heavier with the burden of solitude.
And yet… here she was.
Suddenly, her thoughts were interrupted as she felt the familiar shift in the air. She turned, her heart skipping a beat, and there he was. Natsu, standing in the distance, his fiery presence cutting through the calm like a storm.
Time seemed to stand still as they locked eyes. The world around them fell away, and all that remained was the sight of him—the one person who had been missing from her life for so long.
Natsu's face was a mixture of shock and disbelief, his violet eyes wide as he took in the sight of her. The years had changed her, yes, but she was still the same Wendy he remembered—the kind-hearted girl with the bright spirit, the one who had once brought him comfort and warmth. His heart ached as he looked at her, knowing the pain he had caused by leaving without a word.
Wendy, too, stood frozen, the emotions swirling inside her threatening to overwhelm her. She had imagined this moment so many times, replayed it in her dreams. But now that it was real, she didn't know what to say, what to feel. Was this real? Or had time and distance clouded her mind?
Natsu took a tentative step forward. "Wendy... I'm finally back..." His voice was low, hesitant, like he wasn't sure if he even deserved to be here. His words hung in the air, heavy with the weight of years apart.
Wendy blinked, her throat tight, but the words came out, soft yet resolute. "Welcome back home, Natsu-san," she whispered. Her voice trembled, but there was a strength behind it—a strength born from years of waiting, of growing stronger despite the pain. Tears welled in her eyes, but she blinked them back, not wanting to show the depth of her emotions just yet.
Natsu's heart clenched. Seeing her like this, so composed but so clearly affected, made him feel both guilty and relieved. He had promised he would return when his journey came to an end, but seeing Wendy again—after all this time—made him realize just how much he had missed her.
"Thank you," Natsu said quietly, his voice thick with emotion. "Thank you for waiting all this time." He took a deep breath, swallowing the lump in his throat. He had no right to expect her to still be here, but here she was, waiting for him.
Wendy turned her gaze to the blooming trees, struggling to hold back her tears. "I... I didn't know if you'd come back. I tried to stay strong, but there were times I... I wasn't sure." Her voice cracked, but she forced herself to continue. "I kept going, kept training. But it was hard, Natsu-san. I thought I would be okay, but... I missed you."
The silence that followed was heavy, the weight of unspoken words filling the space between them. Natsu took another step forward, this time closing the distance between them. His hand reached out, gently touching her arm.
"I'm sorry," he whispered. "I never meant to hurt you. I just—" He stopped, his chest tight with the emotions he had buried for so long. "I had to become stronger, Wendy. I promised I'd come back stronger, that I'd be ready to face you again, to stand by your side."
Wendy's heart ached at his words. "You've grown, Natsu-san," she said softly, her hand reaching out to touch his. "I can see it. You've changed." She looked up at him, her eyes filled with a mix of pride and pain. "But... I've changed too."
Natsu nodded, his face reflecting the same emotions. "I know. And... I'm sorry for leaving you alone all this time." He paused, his eyes searching hers. "But now I'm back. And I'm not going anywhere."
Wendy nodded, her hand still resting in his. "I'm glad you're back, Natsu-san. I really am. But things... things have changed. I've had to learn to stand on my own, without you there. And it's been hard."
"I know," Natsu said quietly. "And I'm proud of you for it. You've become so much stronger than I could have ever imagined." He smiled, a small, genuine smile. "But I'm here now. And I'm ready to make up for the time I lost."
Wendy's lips quivered as she smiled back. "We both have grown. And we both have changed." She let out a small, nervous laugh. "I guess it's time we face whatever comes next, together."
Natsu squeezed her hand, his heart swelling with a new sense of determination. "Together, Wendy. I promise. I'll never leave you alone again."
Wendy's eyes shined with unshed tears, but this time, they were tears of relief. "Then let's go back to the guild, Natsu-san. There's so much I need to tell you."
Natsu nodded. "I'm ready. Let's go."
As they walked through the Sakura hills, the sun dipping low in the sky, their bond—tested by time and distance—was stronger than ever. The past had shaped them both, but it was the future they were heading toward that held the promise of something even greater.
As they made their way back to the guild, the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow upon their path. Amidst the fading light, Wendy and Natsu walked side by side, their hearts filled with hope and anticipation for the journey that lay ahead.
As Wendy and Natsu made their triumphant return to the guild after years of separation, the atmosphere was charged with a mix of anticipation and curiosity. Erza and Mirajane exchanged glances, their eyes alight with joy as they witnessed the bluenette's radiant smile in the company of Natsu, their beloved friend.
Stepping into the guild once more, Natsu couldn't ignore the inquisitive stares that followed him, each gaze silently questioning the reasons behind his long absence. With a characteristic nonchalance, he addressed the unspoken curiosity of his guildmates.
"I'm going to assume you all want to know where I've been and what I was doing. Am I right?"
Erza, ever the embodiment of authority, wasted no time in delivering her signature gauntlet to Natsu's head, prompting a mixture of amusement and camaraderie among the guild members.
Levy, her curiosity piqued, was the first to voice the question that lingered in everyone's minds.
"So, Natsu, what have you been doing all this time? Where have you been?"
Natsu settled into a nearby table, his demeanor a blend of solemnity and determination as he prepared to unveil the secrets of his journey. "Well, for starters, aside from traveling to other continents, I was training," he revealed, his words sparking murmurs of surprise and intrigue among his comrades.
"The main reason why I left was for me to see the world and to test myself," Natsu continued, his tone reflecting a newfound sense of purpose and maturity.
Mirajane, ever the voice of reason, sought further clarity. "Why would you want to travel? What made you leave in the first place?"
Natsu's gaze softened as he met Mira's eyes, his expression one of introspection and resolve. "I wanted to travel to see new things and expand my horizons. You could very well say that I wanted to mature in a sense."
As the guild absorbed Natsu's revelations, he proposed a celebration to mark his return, promising to share his adventures with them in due time. The members, eager to embrace him once more, readily agreed, and the guild hall erupted into a jubilant celebration, a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship that defined Fairy Tail.
As Mirajane and Erza took to the stage, their voices rising in a melodic duet that captivated the entire guild, they both wanted to outwit each other and see who was the better singer. Elfman, Gray, and Gajeel engaged in a spirited arm-wrestling competition, their muscles straining with effort as they vied for supremacy. Meanwhile, Wendy and Natsu found themselves immersed in a game of magical charades with Levy and Lucy, their laughter ringing out like music in the bustling hall. Romeo, eager to impress his idol, showcased his latest magical abilities to Natsu, who offered words of encouragement and admiration, his pride evident in his expression.
With each passing moment, Fairy Tail embraced the return of its prodigal members, united once more in the bonds of friendship and shared adventure. From the heart of the celebration, the guild hall became a whirlwind of activity, with members engaging in games, laughter, and spirited conversation.
The night wore on, the guild hall pulsated with energy, the air alive with laughter and camaraderie. Wendy and Natsu found themselves at the center of it all, surrounded by friends old and new, their journey coming full circle amidst the familiar chaos of Fairy Tail.
And so, as the night drew to a close, the guild members reveled in the joy of their reunion, their hearts filled with gratitude for the bonds that had brought them together once more. Fairy Tail had welcomed back its own, and at that moment, there was nothing but laughter, love, and the promise of new adventures on the horizon.
A/N
And that's a wrap on this chapter! I hope you all enjoyed it. If you have any questions about the character choices, particularly Wendy's portrayal in this chapter, feel free to reach out. I'm happy to discuss it further.
The revisions were a bit of a challenge, but I'm glad to have it all finished and ready for you.
If you liked the chapter, don't hesitate to hit that like button and follow for more updates. I would also love to hear your thoughts, so please drop a review if you can—your feedback means the world to me.
I can't wait to see you all in the next chapter!
Next Episode: "Catching Up and Fiery Spars."