#another reason is that i like levy mcgarden

[keirientez]

#nudity warning #guess whos back from college yipee (i was trembling for the entirety of my first day) #it was nice to be talking to people but having to talk to people drained so much out of me that i slept at 9. which is bizzare #drew the middle one while waiting for my afternoon class. what is there to even say i fantasize about women daily #also i like to think for fem!reborn but young she’ll have those puffy flowy dresses but black. #since if reborn originally followed traditional mindsets and standards when it comes to clothing he went for suits (which he later #-proceeds to expand his wardrobe and goes for crossdressing looks like reboko (one of his alt identities) #but would mostly have clothes following the traditional sense #fem reborn would love vests and formal clothings too i think but if in child form the fandom had reborn originally in an ouji-esque look #with top vest and shorts. so i think those puffy lolita dresses are cute for her #tsuna is just tsuna lol but i referenced her hair from levy mcgarden in fairytail #her hair is extremely iconic for me its so pretty #one reason why i chose her hair for reference is that if you just change her hair color to brown she’s literally tsuna’s fem doppelganger #another reason is that i like levy mcgarden #shes just silly ok i love her #and if youre in the fandom you’ll know her abilities which for me at 14 year old was cool as hell #katekyo hitman reborn #r27 #sawada tsunayoshi #reborn #fan art #genderbend

[petri808]

OHMYGODDD JUST SAW YOUR LATEST POST I LOVE IT ANGST WITH A HAPPY ENDING IS JUST CHEF'S KISS. I WOULD LOVE TO SEE 42, 49 and 13 FOR NALU PLEASEEE CAN'T WAIT TO READ ITT

😳 Ya’ll really love angst huh? Lol okay, sure let’s see what I can come up with. 😊 “You can’t keep pretending it didn’t happen, cause guess what? It did!” + “I’m pregnant” + “Im too sober for this”

Lucy’s knees weakened and sent her crumbling to the bathroom floor. Why was this happening to her?! She’d just finished college and was about to start her paid internship with a local newspaper. ‘What am I gonna do?’ Lucy gripped to the stick in her hand as the tears trickled down her face. This could derail her future before it even started— all because of one slip-up. How was she going to tell Natsu… Not knowing who else to talk to, Lucy turned to her best friend Levy McGarden. She texted the woman and drove over to her friends apartment in dread.

“Oh, Lu…” Levy hugged her friend tightly before pulling her into the small apartment. She sat Lucy down on the couch, then made them both some tea. “How you feeling?” Levy asked as she handed the cup over.

“How do you think I’m feeling?!” Lucy groaned. “I feel like I’m in a nightmare.”

“Are you sure the results are correct? You know those home pregnancy tests can be wrong.”

“I don’t know, I mean I followed the instructions and it didn’t give an error sign.” Lucy pulled the stick from her pocket. “See?” She showed it to her friend. “Two lines.”

“Oh— yeah, looks like it,” Levy agreed.

Lucy pocketed the test once again and hung her head. Both hands cradled the warm cup, just holding it without a desire to drink from it. “Just thinking about this is making me sick. Maybe I can just pretend it’s not true.”

“Lu, that’s ridiculous. I’m pretty sure the growing bump on your stomach will make that difficult.”

“Ugh! I know!” Lucy shrieked. “Lie to me or something… Levy, I-I don’t think I can deal with this!”

“Well, you have to. And how am I supposed to lie about this?!”

“I don’t know, tell me this is a dream. Just a bad dream that I’m gonna wake up from. The test was wrong, something! Maybe it’s just a fiction story I’m working on cause I just don’t wanna think about it right now.”

“I’m sorry, but you can’t keep pretending it didn’t happen, cause guess what? It did! Lucy you have to face reality.”

“What am I gonna do Levy? I can’t be having a baby!”

“Well first things first, you need to tell Natsu— I’m assuming it’s Natsu.”

“Of course, it’s Natsu! I haven’t slept with anyone else.”

“Well you need to tell him. He deserves to know.”

“I know…”

“Natsu’s a stand up guy, I know he’s going to do the right thing.”

Lucy sighed, “that’s not what I worry about. I mean having kids is something that’s crossed my mind… just not anytime soon. We’re not even married yet. Ugh! I’m such an idiot.”

“Sometimes these things happen.” Levy placed her hand on her friend’s shoulder. “Can’t go back to the past, so now all you can do is figure out the now. Do you have any idea when it happened?”

“My guess is my graduation party, cause that was the last time we had sex. I barely even remember it cause I was so drunk,” Lucy whimpered, then started to sob. “We’re usually careful but… yeah, it had to be that.”

“Come here,” Levy pulled her friend into a hug. “You’re gonna be okay. Whatever happens, you’re gonna be okay.”

The women spent a couple more hours chatting, flipping between random topics, but often coming back to this one. Lucy struggled to even wrap her mind around the reality that this is real. That she was going to have a child, when she was barely an adult herself and all the factors involved only compounded her dilemma. Her new job isn’t going to afford a child. Natsu had a decent job, but even combined it would be a struggle. They’d have to find a place together, a two bedroom house or apartment. What about the medical expenses, and the baby supplies— babies are expensive! Where was the money going to come from?

When Lucy noticed the time and realized Natsu would be coming home from work within the hour, she thanked her friend for the support and bid her goodbye. Even though she had calmed down a little, she wasn’t ready, didn’t know what or how she was going to break the news to him. So, after arriving home, Lucy tried to distract herself by cooking dinner. It didn’t really work, but at least a meal was made. Her life until now had been going well in that she had a boyfriend who treated her right, supported her while she finished her degree, even pushed her to follow her dreams of writing. And now that her degree was finished, Lucy was on her way after landing the paid internship. If she passed the internship, they would offer her a permanent position at the newspaper.

But now all of that felt like it was slipping through her fingers. All her hard work for nothing because juggling a small child and going to work… Maternity leave is not paid, so they’ll have to rely on just one income for a time, then daycare is quite expensive. Sure, there are programs that she could apply for to help or family, but that’s not the point— the point is, they are sorely not ready to become parents.

“I’m home!” Natsu called out as he entered the apartment. “Something smells good!”

“Welcome home, Natsu.” Lucy called out from the kitchen. “It’s almost done.”

Natsu detected a change in his girlfriend’s tone. Usually when he gets home, she’s in a happier mood— but not today. He threw his keys onto the kitchen island and walked up, giving her a kiss on the cheek. “Everything okay?”

Whatever words she’d planned to say were thrown out the window as tears pooled instantly in Lucy’s eyes. “Natsu, it’s…”the words stumbled out, “um… I-I’m pregnant.”

“P-Preg…nant?!” Natsu took a step back in shock, his trembling hand moving to cover his mouth. “Oh, wow— I’m too sober for this,” he mumbled.

“Pregnant,” she repeated as the sobs broke free. “And alcohol is what got us into this mess!” Lucy snapped and sobbed louder.

“Oh, h-hey now, I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have said that,” Natsu pulled her into his arms. “Don’t cry baby, please don’t cry, I hate seeing you cry.”

“Natsu, I’m pregnant, did you hear me?! Pregnant! I can’t be pregnant!”

“Shh… I hear you,” he gently coaxed Lucy to the couch and had her sit down, then sat beside her, cradling her close. “True, it’s not the best time… but we can make it work.”

“You don’t understand, I’m not ready, Natsu. I don’t think I could handle it…” all the reasons refreshing in her mind. “I have no experience with with kids. What if we screw up? It’s just…” Lucy sighed. “I think… I’m too overwhelmed right now.”

“Okay, well— they make those things now, the, um, end pregnancy stuff.”

“I don’t know…”

“Lucy, I’ll support whatever decision you make.”

“You say that now, but later you’ll probably resent me for… kil— doing that,” she mumbled.

“I don’t know that so neither can you. All I do know is that yes it might hurt— but you’re the important thing right now, and if you say you’re not ready, then I have to accept it. Kids are never easy, I doubt all the preparation in the world can really make a difference. But Lucy,” he took her hand and held it to his chest. “As long as I’ve known you, whatever you choose to do you’re great at it.”

“Really?” She looked up with hope filling her eyes for the first time all day.

Natsu smiled. “And who better to start a family with?” He cupped her cheeks and kissed her. “Then a smart, sassy, beautiful woman like you.”

Lucy’s eyes flooded with tears. “You really think we can make it work?”

He nodded. “As long as it’s something we really want, then yeah.”

After a momentary pause, Lucy let out a long stabilizing exhale. “Okay. I’ll call my doctor and make an appointment tomorrow to check.”

“Really? Y-You sure? Because I don’t want you to feel like I’m trying to coax you into this.”

“No, I-I’m pretty— sure. Things sometimes happen for a reason, right? Maybe it’s meant to be.”

Natsu pulled her in for another longer kiss. “Guess I better hurry up and marry you then,” he chuckled.

She snorted a laugh. “I guess so mister!”

He pulled her close again, hugging her to his chest. “I love you so much baby.”

“Mmm, I love you too.”

“My own baby momma,” he teased.

Lucy slapped his chest with a giggling shriek. “Don’t you dare call me that!”

“Oh,” he grinned, “I’m totally getting t-shirts made.”

#fairy tail #nalu #natsu dragneel #lucy heartfilia #nalu drabble #nalu fan fic #nalu fan fiction #nalu au #pregnancy

[bnhayyy]

This might be too specific, but top ten unrequited romances.

This list was made difficult for me by the fact that I'm not a big fan of unrequited romance as a whole. It's made worse by the fact that it's kinda rare for it to be canonically confirmed that a single character has feelings for someone! I really wanted to stick with canon confirmed feelings for this list and not stray into fanon theorizing. For that reason, I hope you don't mind that I've decided to pare it down to top five pairings rather than top ten. With that out of the way…

5. Destiel - Castiel x Dean Winchester (Supernatural)

I am not actually a big Supernatural fan. Additionally, I do not believe for even a second that Destiel was actually unrequited. However, Castel apparently thought it was, and after the glorious shockwave that its canonization sent across the internet, I would be remiss to not include it on this list.

4. Gajevy - Gajeel Redfox x Levy McGarden (Fairy Tail)

I don't know how many of you know that I like Fairy Tail, but I actually really like Fairy Tail. The plotting may leave something to be desired, and god knows there are all too many death fake-outs, but the relationship writing is stellar. Gajevy is a prime example of this. The development of their relationship over the course of the series (and Gajeel's development in general) is heartwarming and enduring. It loses points for not actually being unrequited, but since Gajeel and Levy both believe that it is at one point or another, it's going on the list. 

Fun Fact: I also considered Jerza and Zervis for the list, but ultimately discarded both due to how they clearly cared about each other even as enemies. 

3. Falbi - Gabi Braun x Falco Grice (Attack on Titan) 

Falco's crush on Gabi was really enduring right off the bat. It was also really sweet to see the subtle shift in how she treated him as the series progressed. This pairing definitely started out as unrequited, but I seriously doubt that it was by the time the series ended. That does mean that it's only number three on the list, but it's also something that I, personally, am really happy about. 

2. Spuffy - Spike x Buffy Summers (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) 

Spuffy is actually my fandom-wide OTP. Their development over the course of the series, both as individuals and as a couple, is nothing short of exquisite. One thing that stuck out about it to me is how Buffy inspired Spike to be a good person despite it being firmly against his nature. Yes, they did go through a serious toxic patch in season six, but when you step back and look at it as a whole, Spike consistently tried to be a better person for her. Despite that, Spuffy doesn't get the number one spot on this list because - you guessed it - it doesn't remain unrequited. You can argue about exactly when it stopped being unrequited, but Spike's feelings were returned in the end, and I am willing to fight on that. 

1. 10 x Martha Jones (Doctor Who) 

I don't know what the ship name for this one is called, but it holds a special place in my heart where unrequited romances are concerned. That's because of what Martha managed to do. She left. Her heart was stolen by  this fantastic, breathtaking person who quite literally showed her the universe, and he kept throwing her little reasons to stay. And for a while, she did. But she also saw that he didn't have the capacity to love someone like that right now, and even if she did, she would always be competing with Rose's ghost. She saw that and realized that it wasn't healthy for her, so instead of sticking around and wasting her heart on someone who would never look at her the way she looked at him, she left. Words cannot express how much I respect her for that. In addition, in a world where it's so common for characters to stick around and pine and go through god knows what in the name of unreturned affections, it was really refreshing to see someone call it quits and put themselves first. 

#Answered #Musflight's top 10 #Destiel #Gajevy #Falbi #Spuffy #Martha Jones #Supernatural #SPN #Fairy Tail #BtVS #Attack on Titan #Doctor Who

[shelbyshoe]

Garden and Lace

I've done a ton of revision and edits on this one, so I'm posting the better version here. Enjoy!

By the end of their mission, Levy is over Natsu and Lucy's arguing. She decides to take matters into her own hands. To finally have some peace and quiet, she traps them in her little glass bottle that houses her secret garden. With lots of time to kill, Natsu and Lucy must make up, but Lucy has other sensual plans of revenge.

Rated: Explicit

Some Explicit Tags: Smut, Light BDSM, Restraints, Ejaculation Denial, Edging :)

Words: 3940

FFN

AO3

Technically they had succeeded in their mission, but Levy Mcgarden felt far from successful on their way back to Magnolia. They completed the job, but in usual Fairy Tail fashion, they did not receive a reward. This didn't bother her. She only wanted to get out of her house. What irritated her was her partners' constant fighting. Natsu and Lucy were her close friends that she would lay down her life for, as they have done for her on many occasions. At that moment, however, all she wanted was to shove her fists in each one of their faces. This jarred her, as Levy was the nonviolent type. She needed to devise the perfect plan to ease her headache and still make it to Magnolia in time to see the next sunset. Levy sighed as their voices rose over the trees. She could barely pick up the sound of wings fluttering above them. Even the birds could not tolerate them. She hadn't expected much from their simple escort mission, only to get out of the house. Gajeel had left with Lily on another stealth mission for the master, so she felt compelled to depart on her own. She'd originally felt grateful for the extended invitation from Lucy. Her friends became a couple only a week ago, although not officially. Lucy sat down with her before their mission to explain. At first, this amused Levy. She thought it would be a quiet mission with the two love birds. She would get her hands on some extra cash and get out of town for a few days. Instead, Levy heard nothing but arguing.

"You didn't have to destroy the whole building!" Lucy complained. The trio took a break and sat on rocks near a once peaceful river. The day hot enough without them spitting words at each other.

"What was I supposed to do? Let him get away?"

"You could have taken it outside!"

"I can't always control that!" Natsu retorted. Levy's head pounded from the constant noise. She understood Lucy's frustration, but she also empathized with Natsu. For this reason, she stayed out of the entire argument. At least they didn't drag her into their discussion. They needed a valuable time out together in a quiet space. Levy remembered the small bottle she kept in her bag. She pulled the bag over her shoulder and inspected its contents. Levy shoved her arm into the mouth of leather all the way to her shoulder, glad she had created a bag with such an immense extension. She continued to rummage around for the bottle. The bold letters on the front spelled out "bag" and moved along with her arm inside. At that moment, Natsu picked Lucy up and threw her over his shoulder. "That's it," he said.

"You put me down right now!" she exclaimed. Levy watched out of the corner of her eye as Natsu began to walk Lucy over to the river. They had completely forgotten Levy's presence. She needed to find the bottle quickly before Natsu did what she thought he would do.

"Ah-ha!" Levy called out too late, as Natsu hopped into the river, and Lucy screamed. A great splash followed the sound. Natsu threw his head back, water dripped from his hair, and laughed as Lucy stood up and outstretched her arms to grab him.

"That's enough!" Levy cried, stood up from her rock, and stomped to the river's edge, "I can't take any more of your arguing!" The small mage watched as they both glanced in her direction. They were hip deep in the river, completely soaked. "Now, you both get into this bottle and deal with your problems before my head explodes."

"Now Levy, we can talk this out," Lucy said, trying to reason with her in vain. They must have seen something dangerous in her expression.

"Yes, you can," Levy said, her smile evil and wide, "once you get into this bottle!" Their eyes followed Levy's quill, as she began to form words in the air. S-H-R-I-N-K.

"Wait!" Natsu called. The smoky words darted toward them and slammed them back into the air. The world around them spun with a gust of wind.

Lucy closed her eyes and waited for her body to land but didn't fall as hard as she expected to. The patch of grass she landed on was soft. She squinted her eyes in the dim light when the day turned to night. Lights twinkled in the distance through the trees. She sat up slowly and recalled what Levy had said to them. Lucy would apologize to her later. She didn't realize how much she and Natsu fought. As much as she loved him, Natsu infuriated her at times. His destructive behavior always got them into trouble. This time, all the reward money from their mission went to pay for damages the dragon slayer created. She did understand where Natsu came from, but the excuses never ended.

Lucy stood in cast shadows, and spots of lights rustled with the light breeze around her. They reminded her of little fairies dashing in and out of the brush. She shivered and wrapped her arms around her body with clothes still soaked from the river. The plants around her stretched out vast and foreign. Someone collected all of them and blended them together in one place. Lucy recalled the glass bottle in Levy's hand as the small woman lectured them. She must have sent them inside her bottle full of shrunken shrubs to get them out of her hair. Lucy brushed some grass off her blue skirt and pressed on through the strange foliage. Levy must have put a lot of work into her little terrarium. Some flowers Lucy had only seen in books. Some crawled up the trees, and some pushed through the dirt at her feet as she walked. She noticed the tiny purple petals sprouting from each step she took. She walked on with magic all around her—a chill against her skin. When the lights appeared closer, she moved a large jungle leaf to reveal the source of light.

A bright clearing between the massive plants revealed itself. An outdoor sitting area sat in the center draped in light netting. An inviting sizeable rug and pillows arranged on the lush grass. A short table with a turquoise tea set sat in the middle of the space. Above her, strung through the branches, tiny fairy lights lit everything in the clearing like stars. Bright insects weaved in and out of the tree canopies. Had Levy meant to punish them or reward them? Natsu. It was crucial she find him before he destroyed Levy's garden. Lucy inspected the opposite side of the clearing. She brushed the large leaves aside and stepped into the darkness.

"Natsu!" She waited for any other sound than the soft rustle from the wind through the trees. She heard something fall from a tree above her. With a small yelp, she backed up into the brush. Whatever fell from the sky had landed with a loud grunt. She heard a cough and knew what or who had fallen. "You scared me!" she said. Natsu lay on his back with furrowed brow and wet clothes. She stepped into the light and reached out her hand to him. His eyes opened slowly and gazed up at the tree where he had fallen.

"Lucy!" he exclaimed, taking her hand and hoisting himself up onto his feet, "Looks like there is no way out of here."

"What were you even doing up there?"

"Thought I could get a good look from the trees. Where are we exactly?" he asked.

"We're inside Levy's bottle," she replied, "I think this is her garden."

"How long do you think she'll keep us in here?"

"I assume until we get back to Magnolia." Lucy pushed past Natsu toward the sitting area. She wrapped her arms around her again with a shiver. He inspected her body with the movement. A light against her skin, warm and golden, cast shadows across her features.

"Lucy you're cold," he said. She continued to tremble; her eyes narrowed.

"Whose fault is that?" she accused. Natsu strolled around the sitting area—observed the plants around them. He squatted beside the tree line and squinted at a small twig that inched toward a bush like a caterpillar.

"This place is really cool," he decided. Lucy gazed at him from where she sat. His exquisite muscles moved suggestively beneath the soaked dark fabric against his tanned skin. The anger she felt for his usual antics subsided for the time being. Instead, her eyes darkened with the possibilities. She recalled all their intimate moments since they started seeing each other. She imagined the way his body moved beneath her thighs as she straddled him. If they were to spend hours together, trapped in a glass bottle of plants, she thought she would take advantage of it. Instead of pouting about Natsu's dunk in the river, her mind bloomed with ideas of revenge.

Natsu had never seen a place like this, more vivid than his own imagination. He wanted to ask Levy how she had created it all. Lucy might know. When he turned to her to ask, his mind silenced at the sight of her. Lucy's arms outstretched over the pillows, her hair draped around her in a golden display, and her eyes roamed his body like a hungry predator. Nothing grabbed his attention more than her white top, drenched from the river, clung to her skin to reveal hard pink nipples beneath the impeding fabric. Her eyes revealed no embarrassment, in fact, they invited him. He gravitated toward her like a moth.

"Lucy," he almost growled, "If you don't stop looking at me like that." If she invited him to take her here, could he promise her he wouldn't lose control?

"You'll what?" she teased. The look he gave her caused her to squirm. She'd play the temptress to catch him in her trap.

"Do I even have to answer that question?" he said. He didn't know what changed in Lucy to forget their argument, but he wasn't about to remind her. The hem of her skirt rose slowly to her upper thigh as she spread her legs. Natsu sunk down on his knees before her, desperate for the treasure between them. His fingers slid beneath her skirt when she stopped him.

"Not until I say so," Lucy said. She reached down and cupped his face in her palms and lifted his mouth to meet hers. His hunger seized her as soon as she pressed her lips to his. A soft breeze sent a shiver up his spine. The drenched clothes they wore now felt like heavy lead against their skin. Lucy placed both palms on his shoulders and guided his back to the floor. Natsu obliged without hesitation, his eyes heavy lidded, and waited to see what she would do. Lucy slid her fingers beneath his top to peel it from his skin. She tossed the fabric to the side without a glance, sat up, and gazed down at his bronzed skin. His arms above his head in surrender and chest bare as it rose and fell heavily with his excitement. His lips barely parted, invited her. She knew this look. A concentrated expression he would give his enemies, but with Lucy, it was to conquer not destroy. She had seen it whenever they made love. The images she conjured sent a wave of heat to her sex. Natsu's eyes darkened as he scented her, his length stiffened beneath her.

"Lucy, let me touch you." His voice husky with need and his hands curled into fists— fighting restraint. She only grinned in return. She reached around her waist, pulled off her belt, and tossed it to the side. Her familiar whip left in her firm grasp. He knew the custom leather weapon from every battle they entered together but never had he seen it in her hands with such a look in her eye. She pulled the leather between her fingers and leaned in to take his wrists, her breasts in perfect view. He leaned in and pressed his lips against one of them and heard a soft groan leave her body as he kissed her breast through the thin soaked fabric. She inspected the whip that firmly bound to his wrists together. Lucy slid her hands against his muscular chest. Her fingers leisurely glided against every ridge of muscle. Natsu closed his eyes with the irresistible sensation. This woman drove him crazy and surprised him every time they were together.

Lucy dipped lower to undo his belt, dropped the belt beside her own. His heart raced as she worked his pants open. With a firm grip on his waistline, she pulled down both his pants and boxers over his painful erection, starved for her touch. She gazed greedily at his body like a prize she had won and sat on her knees between his legs. Before she leaned into trail kisses down his chest, Natsu swore he heard her whisper, "lucky." He arched his back when her tongue darted out and trailed along his torso with her plump lips. The scent of her arousal permeated all around him. He groaned beneath her soft touch, his instinct screamed to claim her—to rip out of her precious whip and take her on the rug. "Lucy, please," he said between gritted teeth. He heard her chuckle before she wrapped a small hand around his cock. Natsu moaned with exquisite pleasure and bucked into her grasp.

The sight of him in her palm was one of the sexiest things she had ever witnessed. A powerful dragon slayer writhed in her grasp. Natsu lay naked, tied up, and completely helpless to her. The power intoxicating enough to embolden her. She rubbed his head slowly with her thumb. The tip glistened with his precum and throbbed with the need to release. Her other hand gripped the inside of his well-built thighs. Fuck.

"Don't worry Natsu, you'll like this," Lucy promised. She licked her palm and slid it over his immense length. His wrists struggled in their binding and his fingers dug into the grass. She gripped tighter over his velvet shaft and pressed her thumb against the vein beneath. He lifted his gaze to her hand in the way she worked. Her name fell from his lips as she upped the pace. Lucy wanted to burst into evil laughter with absolute power. She knew he was close when he bucked wildly against her hand and her name replaced with pleas. He finally seemed to fall apart when she cupped his scrotum and squeezed gently.

"I'm coming," he said, almost unable to speak the words clearly between ragged breaths. On a good day, Lucy would have happily obliged. Nothing pleased her more than getting him off and blowing his mind. Today was not a good day. She had prepared for this moment and almost pat herself on the back with how satisfying her revenge would be. Not only would she get her way in the end, and eventually allow him to come, but she would also punish him in the process. Plus, the whole thing was so hot she could feel her heat spill into her panties. When she felt the pulse against her palm, she tightly squeezed her fingers around the base of his phallus. Lucy knew the moment he realized what she was doing. His eyes grew wide, he moaned loudly and bucked his hips as hard as he could for the release that never came. When the ache subsided and his hips no longer moved, she let go of his shaft.

"Huh," she said, "It worked."

"Are you trying to kill me?" he demanded. She had expected the irritation in his eyes, but not the pure arousal from the act. He liked this.

"Maybe." Lucy needed him. She knew she wouldn't be able to last long without him inside her. Her core tightened to the point of ache as she sank lower between his legs.

"You're the death of me, Lucy Heartfilia." Natsu couldn't take his eyes off her, maddened with the need to bury himself inside her. Whenever she released him from his restraints, he swore, he would take her so hard she would scream his name. The anticipation set his blood on fire. She lowered herself between his thighs and trailed kisses down to his length, her mouth like flame against his skin. She gazed up at him in deep brown as she took his cock in her greedy hands once again. Lucy wrapped her lips around the head of his shaft, and her tongue lapped at the sensitive tip. Natsu arched his back again pulling at his restraints.

Lucy couldn't take her eyes off him. His chest moved up and down with his erratic breathing as he moaned. His face and chest flushed with the pleasure of her. The whole image so erotic she couldn't stand it anymore. She reached down with one hand to pull down her skirt and underwear. Natsu's gaze glued to the pair of pink lace panties. They were, in fact, his favorite pair. They fell before his eyes and lay on the ground beside her. Her hand moved to her weeping sex to touch herself, and he bit his lip at the sight. Don't lose control. He repeated the word like a mantra. She slowly took him into her mouth as she stroked her sensitive clit with her fingers. She was so wet, they slid easily over the throbbing nub. She couldn't help but moan against his cock. The vibrations made a curse slip from his lips. Lucy knew he was too big to fit entirely into her mouth, so she placed her other hand below her lips and squeezed tightly.

"Fuck. You suck me so good," Natsu said. She groaned when praises fell repeatedly from his lips, and she upped her pace. She sucked his shaft into her mouth with sloppy wet sounds in her ears and rubbed her drenched clit in a frenzy, spreading her knees wider for herself. She could feel her climax coming as his shaft began to pulse. This time she pulled her mouth away as he came and clamped her hand around the base of his cock once more. Without concern, she continued to reach her limit. Natsu shouted out with his denied release as she came against her own fingers. He watched helplessly as she rode her orgasm.

"Fuck," he groaned. His shaft cold and wet with the absence of her hot tight mouth. She stilled between his legs to catch her breath. Natsu took the opening and sat up. She gasped when he leaned into her and pressed her back to the ground. Natsu pulled free from his restraints while beads of sweat formed over his skin. With free hands, he placed both on either side of her head. "My turn." One hand reached up to restrain her wrists in a tight grip. With the other, he pushed his fingers between her folds and drove into her tight little cunt. She whimpered with his touch and thrust her hips into his hand. Natsu was relentless. He worked his fingers against her sweetest places until she became a puddle in his grasp. She cried out for her coming climax. Instead, he pulled his hand away and allowed her to wiggle her thighs together for relief. She groaned loudly at his gesture and frowned at Natsu's victorious grin.

"Natsu," she pleaded. He let her wrists go and moved down to her blouse. The fabric teased her peaked nipples since they got there, and it didn't sit well with him. He took little time to free them from her blouse. Natsu tossed her top over his shoulder, and his eyes roamed her pale and perfect breasts before lowering his lips to one of them. He sucked her chilled nipple into the heat of his mouth. Lucy cried out when his tongue lapped at them, and his teeth grazed against her skin. The sound like a melody in his sensitive ears. He left soft kisses beneath one full breast and moved to the other, pleased with her reactions. Usually, he'd take his time and savor her, but after what she did to him, he had no more patience. He released her nipples and positioned his cock against her entrance. Her mouth hung open in an empty cry as he sheathed himself inside her. Her eyes rolled back with the sweet feeling of him filling her to the brim.

"Fuck Lucy." His control shattered and he squeezed his eyes shut as her walls tightened around him in a vice grip. He knew he would come sooner than he would like, and it was all a part of her plan. He took a deep breath to calm himself, readied for what came next. As soon as she adjusted, he pulled out of her to the tip and proceeded to slam into her dripping sex. Her breasts bounced with the force and a resounding slap of wet flushed skin filled the air. She was the most erotic and beautiful woman he had ever seen. All he wanted was to show her how he would worship her body. His name tumbled from her lips as he rode her hard. Her fingers dug into his back—implored him to continue. Natsu slid his hands beneath her and grasped her firm buttocks. He pulled her hips up to meet his and buried himself fully into her. "God Lucy, I can't," he said desperately.

"Come for me, Natsu." With her words, he crumbled. Their cries echoed around them as they came together. Natsu rolled his hips with languid motion, her tight walls squeezed around him in her orgasm. He all but collapsed to the side and pulled her close to his chest. He wrapped his legs around her possessively with his sex within her.

"Are we even? No more fighting?" he asked breathlessly.

"No more fighting," she agreed. If this was how all their arguments ended, she may not mind.

It took them a while, beneath the darkened canopy of trees and foliage, to unlock from each other. Lucy picked up her clothes and began to dress, as she watched the fireflies dash in and around the fairy lights. The place was like a walk in a dream. The two lay in a heap amongst the pillows. Lucy spread her arms out and leaned her head back against their softness. Natsu laid his head in her lap gazing up at her.

"I'm beat," he said.

"Me too." They sat together for a while and talked about everything and nothing. They almost dozed off with the sounds of the forest when they heard footsteps coming toward them.

"Geez, you guys really fight, don't you?" Levy said walking through the brush. She was in a fresh set of clothes and followed by a tall dark shadow. They knew she made it to Magnolia.

"Damn Salamander, what do you do, get into fistfights with the girl?" Gajeel's familiar voice said, "You both look exhausted." Natsu and Lucy glanced at each other and laughed.

"Something like that," Lucy said.

#nalu #fairy tail #ft fan fiction #nalu fan fiction #natsu x lucy #garden and lace #my writing

[maprron]

Crush Culture| Ch. 1

Summary: Lucy is your average teenage girl... but she's not, it's complicated but not in a "OH I'm actually a supernatural being" but in a "OH I have to get married as soon as I turn 18" type of way. Problem #1 she doesn't like anyone and problem #2 she might have to marry her dad's friend's son... yay

Disclaimer: This story was created mainly for my friend and has no romance but they are gay so...  also like I barely proofread this so hope it makes sense :\

Lucy doesn’t need an introduction but she is getting one anyway. In all honesty if you went anywhere in this hell of a town, as Lucy calls it, and asked anyone if they had heard of her their answer would most likely be “yes”. She wanted to disappear from this world, start a new one with only herself. She wished that she could have been born another person and not the “heir” to the family business as her father likes to refer to it as. But of course her father is a misogynist so the word “heir” that he throws around so casually is actually referring to her future husband. The cherry on top of Lucy’s hellish life, of course, is that she is expected to be married by 18 and probably have a kid by 19. There is one problem with this “fantasy” world that Jude Heartfilia has in his mind, however; it isn’t how it is completely fucked up but that his daughter has never experienced love and doesn’t expect to for a while. While she would be lying if she said that she hadn’t found guys hot and women beautiful in her life, what bisexual 17 year old doesn’t, she could never say that she wanted to date these people. Long story short the idea he has in his mind of her marrying a decent man by the time she is 18 isn’t going to happen, unless of course he choses one for her which is plausible 

“Lu-Chan hurry up” Levy McGarden, she herself would need an introduction anywhere she goes. People call her forgettable behind her back but the fact they joke about her behind her back proves them wrong. She is the cliché “nerd” in any Hollywood movie. She has straight  A’s which is the only thing straight about her, she spends most of her time studying and hiding her face in a new romance novel that she seems to be reading everyday, she is most of the teachers’ favorite, she isn’t popular, and she doesn’t go to parties.

Well she didn’t go to parties but some things change, except not that much…?

Said party is being hosted by the one and only Erza Belserion because her scary mother is out of town. If someone needs an introduction to her just ask any guy in town and they will probably tell you she is “terrifying” due to the fact that at one point they have all bet that they could win in a fight against her, they were wrong. 

Erza is the definition of “sword lesbian” it is probably illegal to give a 5 year old a sword for her birthday but try explaining that to the lady who got the title of being “Erza’s terrifying mother (who is even scarier)”

“Levy, there is no need to hurry her” Lisanna Strauss, the only reason most people live. That isn’t 100% true but God she does deserve it. A lot of girls at school hate her because she was childhood friends with Natsu Dragneel and for some odd reason they were scared that she was going to ruin their chances with him. 

Jokes on them because she is a lesbian and he well… who knows?

Natsu Dragneel… how does anyone explain him? You don’t… so we are moving on

“Don’t worry Lis” Lucy giggled as she walked out of the bathroom in a blue sweater and a long white skirt “you guys ready?” Lucy giggled as she swirled around her skirt like a little kid

~~~

Erza knows a lot of people, probably too many. 

At one point Lucy got left in the corner of Erza’s kitchen. She strangely preferred it that way… being alone, not being thought of as only Jude Heartfilia’s daughter, not being thought of as the girl who has to marry a man when she turns 18. 

Guys like that fact.

But she is never alone because also standing in the kitchen is the one and only Natsu. She was honestly surprised that the same girls who attacked Lisanna hadn’t attacked her for even looking at him on the first day of school. 

She knew him not because she wanted to but because of course his father is a businessman just like her father. Their companies are close and have partnered together on many different occasions. 

This is a bad thing.

It is a bad BAD thing because that puts Natsu at the top of the list of people her father would force her into a marriage with and vice versa.

“You know it is rude to stare” he yelled to her over the loud music as he stuffed his hands in his sweatpants. 

Lucy hadn’t realized she was staring at him before and now felt quite embarrassed

“What gives? Why aren’t you drinking?” He chuckled as he walked over to her 

“I could ask you the same thing”

“I hate the taste, you?”

“Same” she sighed “why do you care?”

“I don’t, I am just surprised Erza haven’t made ya try something”

“…I haven’t seen her” she added, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear

“That’s a lie” he laughed at her 

“And why do you say that” she placed a hand on her hip as she shifted her weight to one side of her body

“Because she is obsessed with you, you sure you two aren’t in a secret relation-“

“WE’RE NOT!” Lucy was quick to blurt out, blushing at his words

“Now I really don’t believe ya” he furrowed his eyebrows today, mimicking her pose.

“Just drop it okay” she pushed him a little in hopes to get him to stop mimicking her “she’s like my mom, that’s gross”

“Okay…” he turned around to leave but stopped “you are awkward around me because of the whole marriage thing right?”

“Why would you assume that?”

“I don’t want to marry you either… you need to start working with me instead of against me” he grumbled, stuffing his hands even deeper into his pockets as if his hands were freezing, they weren’t because the weirdo never felt cold but still

“I’ll still have to marry someone” she mumbled, looking down at the ground

“And I couldn’t give a damn who it is, it just isn’t going to me” and with that he left the kitchen and she backed herself back into the corner this time sliding down against the wall, falling slowly against the tile.

~~~~

“I can’t believe he showed up” a group of three girls gossiped in the living room looking at the “kid” with blue hair who was curled up on the couch on their phone away from everyone 

“Did you hear the rumors about him?” One girl giggled

“Yeah, do you believe it?” Another giggled back through her words 

“I mean look at him” she pointed at said person “no man dresses like that” 

“Quit it you three” a deep yet soft voice said suddenly. The voice belonged to Gray Fullbuster

“Oh Gray we… we didn’t mean anything by it we were just uh…” one girl tried to explain 

“Get lost you three” he glared at the girls as they froze in fear before they ran off. Where they ran off to Gray couldn’t care less. 

The “kid’s” name was Juvia, but no one knew that yet

Gray didn’t say anything to her, he just smiled and walked away. No surprise. He was different from the rest, Juvia thought as she watched him walk away, but what was it?

~~~~

“Damn I know you don’t like parties but you don’t have to curl up in a ball on the kitchen floor like this” Cana laughed as she stumbled into the kitchen with Erza, the two girls quite underdressed for the weather outside as Cana wore a sleeveless crop top and Erza wore a blue bodycon party dress with only see through legging underneath.

“What’s wrong?” Erza ask as she saw Lucy lift her head up from her knees

“Nothing… I guess I am just thinking about things” she smiled weakly at two of her best friends

“Nah I don’t believe that one bit” Cana stumbled back up against the kitchen island with a hick up. 

Lucy just looked at Cana’s black Dr. Martens and her baggy blue jeans that had dumb scribbles in the cuffs from years of passing around a pin and telling people to go wild, most of her jeans are like that, one pair even being covered with drawings. She giggled at the words ‘Natsu Sucks’ written on the jeans probably by Gray or someone

“Are you okay?” Erza smiled weakly as she crouched down in front of the girl. 

“Yeah, don’t worry about me” Lucy only laughed it off

“Are you sure, love?” A new yet familiar voice entered the kitchen

The voice belonged to Mira Jane 

She walked over to the three girls. Lucy watched as her pink dress swayed with her hips and her high heels clicked along the tile. She too was probably underdressed with her dress that only went halfway down her thighs but at least this time she wore sleeves.

Lucy bit her lip, something making it impossible for her to lie to Mira. “I am fine really, I just sat down here after I talked to Natsu”

“Want me to beat him for you?” Cana blurted out as she glanced inside her cup before finishing it.

“No!” Lucy’s eyes widened as she looked up at the girl who was now hoisting herself up onto the counter to “we only talked about… about how we might have to get married because your fathers” she rolled her eyes

“Why Natsu though?” Erza thought out loud “doesn’t Gray Fullbuster’s dad work with your’s”

“He’s not my type but even if he was my dad wouldn’t allow was to marry for some reason ” 

“That’s odd” Mira said 

“Are you saying that Natsu fucking Dragneel is your type” Cana laughed as she drank straight from a new bottle that seemed to have appeared in her hands

“No” Lucy flipped Cana off while, Cana didn’t notice however through her drunken giggles

“I’m kidding” she finally stopped laughing and smiled down at Lucy. “But Mira is correct, that is…” she zoned out for a moment as she spoke “it is kind of odd.”

“Maybe he just doesn’t like him” Lucy shrugged from her place on the cold tile floor of the kitchen as she leaned back against where the wall and the end counter met.

“But why wouldn’t he though?” Erza questioned “Gray is more mature than Natsu by a longshot and your father of course… well you know” she crossed her arms over her chest as she looked back behind her, noticing Gray himself leaning up against a wall on the other side of the kitchen looking down at his feet with his arms crossed over his chest. He held a box of cigarettes in one of his hands while casually smoking one. Mira coughed a little as the smoke started to drift over to the group, the girl has always been unable to stand the smell

“He just doesn’t like me,” he said finally as he continued to stare intensely at his feet, fiddling with the small box in his hand “a lot of people don’t” he swallowed with a frown now present on his face

“Gray?” Erza whispered with concern in her voice

“Don’t worry, Erza” His frown quickly turned into a smile as he looked up from his feet as he uncrossed his arms. “Now…” he pushed himself off the wall and walked up to Erza, stuffing the box in his jean pockets before he clasped his hands together like her was Mira “I saw that Bisca got here before I walked in here, I figured you would want to see her”

“Of course I do!” she smiled as she walked with Gray out of the kitchen to go find Bisca. 

Lucy furrowed her brow together as she watched the two teens walk away together, puzzled on the meaning of his words.

#fairy tail #lucy heartfilia #natsu dragneel #Levy McGarden #gray fullbuster #Juvia Lockser #Cana Alberona #Mirajane Strauss

[eryiss]

Summary: 'Freed The Dark, God of Death and ruler of the Netherworld. Followed by a reputation as rotten and stinking as the corpses he gives a home; he had been ostracized by gods and angels alike. And as the war between gods got closer, and those he cared for are dragged into the fight, his seclusion begins to twist his mind against him. But as his darkest day approached, he was forced to choose where his morals lie.' - Levy McGarden: A Examination and Retelling of the Fiorean Gods. [Fraxus One Shot]

Event: Fairy Tail Reverse Bang (Hosted by @ftguildevents​)

This was made in partnership with the great @fairiesherefairiesthere​, who made the beautiful artwork that made this fic possible. You should show them and their work a lot of love, and reblog it from here.

You can read it on Fanfiction, Archive of Our Own, or under the cut. Hope you enjoy.

Once Dead, Now Judged

The God of Death. The God of Judgment.

His is a story many people believe that they know, one that has been spoken of many times. In the telling and retelling of this story, many aspects of what made it so important have been lost. The Gods have been diluted into a single trait, and their significance in the tale is often misunderstood or disregarded entirely. The story has been condensed into a point where it can be explained in a single statement.

'The God of Death wanted the war to end, so he ended it.'

Of course this is not the truth of the matter. This mindset disregards both the personal and the political motivations which led to these decisions. It disregards the humanity behind the Gods, the fact that they were people and had flaws and loves, all of which led to that famous moment. The moment where corpses walked upon water, where souls were ready to kill souls. Where a disrespected God had the world at his feet, and chose to save it rather than destroy it as it perhaps deserved.

The moment where Freed Justine, God of both Death and Judgment, shaped the future.

Artists have often tried to capture the moment in their work. Countless renditions of the battlefield have been painted, each depicting the shadow of the death God looming over the fight to put an end to it. These depictions of the moment, while both beautiful and important, often hide away the humanity behind the story. This moment wasn't the God of Death's. It was Freed Justine's.

One such painting that recognises this is called the 'Knight of Judgment'.

Knight Of Judgement. Artist Unknown. Date Unknown.

Though its artist is uncredited, it is clear that they see the story in the same personal light that I do. It shows the moment that shapes our reality, but not from the perspective of the battlefield. From the perspective of the man who made it happen. That is the story that I will be telling you all today.

The untold story of the man behind the God.

Of the human behind the revolution.

Of Freed the Dark, God of Death, and ruler of the Netherworld. Followed by a reputation as rotten and stinking as the corpses he gave sanctuary; he had been ostracized by Gods and angels alike. And as the war between Gods got closer, and those he cared for are dragged into the fight, his seclusion began to twist his mind against him. But as his darkest day approached, he was forced to choose where his morals lie.

Levy McGarden; An Examination and Retelling of the Fiorean Gods

~~~

"Bastards!"

Freed's words echoed throughout the chamber as he stormed through it. Darkness covered almost everything, with light filtering in through the stained-glass windows that circled his throne room. His footsteps reverberated through the room as an accompaniment to his anger, the heels of his boots slamming against the black marble flooring.

On his face sneered a scowl, his fists were clenched at his sides, and he made a sharp gesture towards the large wooden doors before him. They opened with speed, slamming into the walls, and cracking slightly, sending a gust of wind towards the God which lifted his hair and the long black robe that hung behind him.

"Sanctimonious ego driven bastards!" He roared into the nothingness of his castle.

How dare they? How dare they!

He shouldn't have expected anything more. He should have gotten used to his treatment at that fucking table. He should have long since forgone any hope of being treated as an equal before them all, because they didn't see him as such. To them he was nothing but a utility, the person who cleaned up the messed that their ridiculous infighting was responsible for. That was the only reason why he had been called to service, and it was the only reason would ever be called to service, because people were going to die, and they needed him accommodate them.

The Netherworld was nothing but their dumping ground. They saw it as justification for allowing their stupidity to interfere with people. A way out of feeling guilt for the people their fancies killed. They delude themselves into thinking the Netherworld was just another part of life for humans, and refused to listen to anything that would break that illusion.

And Freed: he was nothing to them. He was just the person who kept the gates closed, stopping the corpses and the souls from returning to life with the anger of being wronged by the Gods.

"Bastards!" He yelled for a third time.

With a snarl, he slammed his hand on the wall at his side. The impact created an almost soft cracking sound, and a fissure-like tear ripped apart the wall of the corridor he was walking down. Bricks split apart, and windows shattered into shards on the floor.

The sensation of destruction was cathartic, but only slightly.

A moment later, he heard footsteps behind him, running to catch up with him. It was Evergreen, who he had placed outside of his throne room while he communed with the other Gods. Communication was though the mind, leaving his body essentially empty, so it needed to be guarded. Once, a man had made the mistake of attacking him in that state; now, the attacker endured the sensation of acid being secreted directly into his skin as penance.

Freed always made sure someone was on guard now, predominantly because changing someone's genetic makeup in such a way was a tedious process.

Though at that moment, it sounded delightful.

Everyone seemed to understand that Freed was not a man to target. Though, most people didn't have the opinion of him to do so. So long as you didn't break his trust, he would show a level of decency towards you. Most understood that his decency was a kindness, and they wouldn't risk losing it.

He didn't slow his place, and took a small amount of pleasure from the glass cracking under his feet as he walked. Pushing his arm forward, he slammed another set of doors open, the hinges cracking with the strain of such fast movement. By the time he had reached the threshold and walked into lobby of his castle, Evergreen had caught up to him.

"Freed," She said, and he glanced to his side to see Evergreen had sprouted wings and was hovering slightly to increase her speed. The wings had an odd look to them, and Evergreen had once stated they resembled fairy wings. Freed enjoyed her eccentricities, as odd as they were. It made her more human.

Something the bastards at the 'Table of the Gods' would do good to understand.

"They see us as nothing but a way to distance themselves from responsibility," Freed snapped at her, uncaring for the lack of context. He slowed down a little so Evergreen didn't have to fly to keep up with him, though.

Evergreen was a demon, technically. Freed disliked the term, as there was nothing separating his demons with any other God's angels, other than the fact she lived in the Netherworld rather than in the skies. It was another way that the so-called Higher Gods separated themselves from Freed. They were Gods of the world and they had their angels. He was a God of the Netherworld who had his demons. Ridiculous political bullshit.

She was one of the highest-ranking demons in the Netherworld. Freed had placed her in control of the corpses, or fairies as she called them. Her particular magic allowed her to revitalise the bodies of the dead, as their own genetics failed to do so. Rather than having limbs fall off, she kept them healthy and functional. For those who wanted it, she would change what they looked like slightly to the persons ideal form of beauty. Freed never particularly understood why people cared that much for what they looked like, but it seemed to make his subjects happy so he wouldn't intervene.

Evergreen made up one third of the triad named Raijinshuu. Freed and Bickslow completed it.

"What happened exactly?" Evergreen probed, dropping to the floor and letting her wings flitter away.

"What always happens," Freed growled. "They politely informed me that there would be an influx of dead coming and I'm to accept it without argument nor question. And of course they tried to imbue their politics into the situation, claiming certain dead should be treated better than others."

"Ah," Evergreen said in recognition before echoing Freed's own statement. "What always happens."

She placed a hand on the Gods back in a soft touch. Given his situation, Freed didn't have the chance to get close to people on a human level; an issue faced by all Gods no doubt. But his two top demons were what he considered friends, and he had made a great effort to show that he didn't see himself above them. That couldn't work with all demons, of course, as he needed to keep a level of authority over his land. But the two of them were allowed to see him without any of his facades or defences.

Some of the other Gods who knew this looked down on him for this. But he had spoken to more humans than they knew existed, and each of them had stated the importance of connections with other people. They were more knowledgeable than any God about what made life worth living.

That was why Freed wished to be involved in conversations about dead. He knew humans as more than just a premise. They weren't just hypothetically alive. They had thoughts just as much as any God, they were simply more breakable than them. As the thought struck him, another wave of anger creeped over him.

He leant his back against Evergreen's hand. Physical contact with other people grounded him.

"Come on," Evergreen said, apparently noticing Freed's return to rigid posture. "We thought this might happen."

Eventually, after walking through many of the hallways in his home, he was guided towards one of the many sitting rooms. It was his favourite, given its large fireplace, the fact it was at the back of the castle, and the view overlooking the garden. It was the most secluded place in the building, and therefore the most comfortable for him.

When they walked in, Bickslow was waiting for him. The fire was roaring and crackling, the wooden shutters had been closed to keep the light inside, and a china teapot was steaming out of the funnel with three teacups resting beside it.

It was nice to have connections with people. People did kind things for you.

"There's the big scary God of Death," Bickslow said with a taunt in his voice. "Did someone get angry and demolish a corridor again?"

"Do you really think it's wise to antagonise me, Bickslow?" Freed said, the amusement almost unnoticeably seeping into his tone. "I control this realm entirely; I can force you to eat a human heart and drown on the blood, should the mood take me."

"I prefer a liver, really. Less messy," Bickslow said with a cackle.

Freed smiled a little at that, relaxing into the easy-going environment Bickslow always projected. Making up the final part of Raijinshuu – or the tribe of hell – he was of equal power to Evergreen, and equally important to Freed.

Whereas Evergreen looked after the bodies of the deceased, Bickslow looked after the souls. This was an equally important job, as both the soul and the body made life. Just like an uncared-for body would fall apart and crumble without care, the soul would spiral into darkness and insanity, becoming self-destructive and dying out like a star. Bickslow both used his magic and his personality – so he claimed – to keep the souls both sane and content.

The two demons worked together well. They needed to. Death was the process of splitting up a soul from one's body. For an afterlife to begin, the soul and the body needed to be brought back together. Evergreen and Bickslow were responsible for merging them both when possible.

They were quite affective at their work.

The process was often a tedious one, it must be said. Bodies and souls could appear anywhere in the Netherworld, and could often go unfound for centuries. Sometimes a body would be destroyed to the point where Evergreen couldn't save it, sometimes a soul had gone mad before anyone could even find it. Thankfully, this usually only happened to those who were truly evil, perhaps as some form of karmic punishment, but both Evergreen and Bickslow were still respectful in how they dealt with those cases.

Evergreen had created a forest, fertilised with what remained of the corpses. Bickslow had created a spell where the remnants of souls could be merged together, making an entirely new soul. It had happened thousands of times, and Bickslow had crafted only five souls out of these remnants. They had been assigned to little dolls, which followed the man around constantly.

"Since I knew you'd be all icy," Bickslow continued, picking up a teacup and proffering it to Freed. "I thought you'd enjoy this. Masala tea, nice and hot."

Freed took the cup with a word of thanks. He tried to keep the culture of the living at arm's length for most of the time, but he had once drunk tea and found it rather spectacular, and decided he would allow certain parts of humanity into his own life. He was allowed to have a weakness, and a warm drink was a good one to have.

"What happened then?" Evergreen asked, sitting at one of the red sofas opposite the God. "Specifically."

"There's a war coming, so they think," Freed sighed, placing the teacup down. "Apparently they don't intend to be subtle if it does happen, and humans will be killed in thousands. We have been instructed to make plans to accommodate the dead."

"Instructed huh?" Bickslow said with a small grunt.

"Indeed," Freed nodded. "Apparently the ridiculous feud between Makarov and his idiot son has boiled over. They expect the first casualty within months. And once one person is killed, either man will willingly do anything in return to prove their point."

"And they have to drag the people into it?" Evergreen sighed.

"I doubt that they have to, but they will," Freed mused. "They don't see the people as being alive any more than an ocean, or a mountain. They're just little creatures to them, barely thinking in comparison to a God. Why would the bother with the effort of keeping them alive?"

"They didn't listen to ya when you told them that, huh?" Bickslow asked.

"Ivan's exact words to me were 'Keep your corpse fucker mouth shut,'" Freed shrugged.

"He hasn't gotten any smarter, then, if that's the best insult he could think of," Evergreen muttered, and Freed laughed. It was a clipped, cynical laugh, but better than nothing.

"If he ever ends up down here, I shall need one of your souls to possess that ridiculous suit of armour he insists on wearing," Freed said, looking to Bickslow. "It would be a nice level of irony that the thing he wears to protect him ends up ripping his bowels out and crushes them as he watches. I'd find that pleasant."

"I'll get em trained up ready," Bickslow said with a grin. "But you don't think they can be cooled off. Makarov and Ivan I mean. They've never gotten along, you said, but they've never gone to war."

"Laxus is trying to calm them both down, but I doubt he'll be of any help. He fights with Ivan as much as his grandfather does," Freed lifted the teacup to his lips again, sipping at the spicy liquid and allowing it to warm his cold blood. "And it seems like their millenniums worth of grievances has come to return all at once. Laxus would have to be a saint as well as a God to get them to even consider being diplomatic."

"So we gotta play clean-up because their pissing contest is gonna get violent," Bickslow surmised, and Freed nodded. "And they don't even have the fucking courtesy to talk to you like an equal."

"They consider themselves to be the most important beings in existence. Annoyingly, existence seems to agree," Freed said with a tired expression. "Why would they care about the ants they're crushing? Or the people who try to help them?"

"Should we be expecting Laxus here anytime soon?" Evergreen asked.

"Perhaps, though not in the next few days. Calming them both will be his priority," Freed stood up, placing his tea in its saucer again. "I suppose they're right, though. We need to prepare if half the world is going to be slaughtered."

Bickslow and Evergreen shared a look.

"Tomorrow," Bickslow said firmly. "We start tomorrow."

"There's hardly any reason to prolong-"

"Tomorrow," The demons said in unison, and Evergreen continued talking. "You've not slept in days, if nothing else allow yourself a night's rest."

"A few hours ain't gonna affect anything," Bickslow added. "And we both know that anything you do while pissed off ain't gonna be as good as if you're calm. So take the night off and sleep."

Freed took a moment to think, then sighed and nodded. He returned to the chair like they so clearly wanted and allowed Bickslow to pour him another cup of tea. He brought it to his lips and watched as his friends smiled in contentment of their actions. It was important that he had these people in his life, and he was glad that they were there.

As tedious as they may be.

~~~

Often disregarded in the story of Freed the Dark is the people close to him. His relationships with both his friends and those he ruled were imperative to his overall decision to enter the war. As leader of the Netherworld, he was shaped more by humanity than any other God, and without this influence it is unclear as to whether or not he would have walked into the fight or not.

The closeness he held to those not of his blood was anomalous for a God, and was part of the reason as to why he was disrespected and looked down upon by some of his fellow Gods. They saw him as impure, tainted by the lesser beings of the land.

It is important to state that not every God looked down upon him. He was not the victim of complete ostracization, and certain Gods looked to him as an ally, friend and, in the case of Laxus Dreyar, a lover.

Laxus was the youngest son of the Higher God's, known colloquially as the Dreyar's. The grandfather and patriarch of the family, Makarov, was known to be God of Expansion and Family. He sat at the head of the God's Table, and was seen by all as the ruler of the Gods. Makarov's son Ivan, the God of Persona, and later the God of Tricksters, showed great levels of jealousy towards his father and tried on many occasions to usurp him, both through manipulations and violence.

The family of Gods were all-powerful and volatile.

However, Laxus showed himself to be different. After being manipulated against Makarov, Laxus chose to leave the skies. It is stated that he was unsure where Ivan's manipulations ended, and his own personality began. His exile was so he could become his own man.

It was during this exile he found himself in the Netherworld, walking through the garden of the castle.

Meeting the God of death, they quickly found solace in each other's company. Laxus understood better than most the hardships of being a God, particularly one involved in the politics of others. They could relate to each other on a level nobody else could, and what started as a mutual fondness quickly developed into love.

Their relationship was kept secret from most, with only those closest to the men knowing in the days before the war. Despite the secretive nature of the romance, both men adored each other. It cannot be overstated how important this relationship was in proceeds that ended the war.

Levy McGarden; An Examination and Retelling of the Fiorean Gods

~~~

Having loved the man for so long, Freed knew what to look for when Laxus was approaching.

Being the God of both Thunder and Lightning, when Laxus was around there was a certain feeling in the air. The slight presence of static, a partial increase of humidity, and a tiny chill to the air. Freed would compare it to the feeling of standing in a cloud that was just about to bear lightning. Most people either didn't notice the feeling, or saw it as an imposition. Freed rather liked the sensation, it was as if he was being wrapped up in the long fur lined cloak that Laxus wore.

The feeling arrived before the man himself. Laxus' abilities allowed him to become one with the clouds and lightning, and to form a cloud wherever he saw fit. So when he wished to visit Freed, he would summon a cloud into the castle, and bring his consciousness into it, his body following soon after.

In the first few instances of his arrival, the cloud had struck lightning and Laxus had formed out of that. Laxus later revealed it was an unnecessary level of showmanship, and he was showing off.

Freed looked back on that confession with fondness.

When the smoke coming from the fireplace started to pool in the air, followed by the sensation of static, humidity and a chill, Freed knew that his lover would soon be with him. The God placed his wine glass at the table beside him with a soft smile, waiting patiently for the cloud to dissipate and for his lover to be by his side.

"Mr Dreyar," Freed said pleasantly, watching as the cloud burst and left Laxus in its place. "A pleasure to see you again."

Laxus didn't say anything at first, but instead stalked over towards Freed and wrapped his arms around the man tightly. Freed couldn't be sure what had spurred the action on, but hugged his lover back with an equally strong grasp. They stayed like this for a moment, tightly embracing one another as the fire crackled beside them.

"Sorry it took so long to get here," Laxus muttered into Freed's shoulder.

"You needn't be," Freed replied almost automatically. "They're your family, and you have a responsibility to them."

It had been just shy of a week since the meeting of the Gods, and where Freed had yet again been dismissed by the leaders. Laxus had been in attendance at the meeting, of course, and Freed hadn't seen him since he had walked out.

The time since then had been mainly spent preparing the Netherworld for the inevitable influx of dead. His demons had been told to be vigilant for new souls and corpses, as when they would come was unknown. The dead had been told to begin preparing buildings and homes for the newly dead, as Freed would not allow for overpopulation. And everyone had been informed that their ancestors and relatives might die soon, and they would need their families to help them adjust, so to prepare themselves for that. It had all been busywork for Freed, and partly because he wanted to distract himself from his lover's absence.

"I should have come to you sooner," Laxus said, burying his face into the crook of Freed's neck.

"You're here now," Freed whispered. "And that's enough. And anyway, Bickslow and Evergreen have been keeping me sane. As has the work."

"I'll thank 'em later," Laxus mumbled, pressing his lips into Freed's neck in a kiss. "You sure you're okay?"

"I believe I've calmed down," Freed said with a nod.

"Can't believe you stormed out like that," Laxus said, removing himself from Freed's arms. "Don't think either of the bastards ever had someone do anything like that to them before, you should have seen their faces after you left."

"I doubt it'll change anything," Freed shrugged, picking up his wine again.

"You pissed 'em both off, that's something," Laxus said with a hint of a laugh in his voice. "You know when they realise we've been together for centuries, they're gonna think that you're the reason I rebelled against them."

"Finally I'll be credited for something worthwhile," Freed chuckled a little at that.

Freed was unaware of it, but Laxus looked towards him with a hint of sadness in his eyes. He had long since been aware of the disrespect Freed faced from both the Dreyar's and many of the other Gods. He had tried what he could to change that, so far as to defend him both before and after Freed had left the meeting a week prior. But the Gods were stubborn, and set in their prejudices. Laxus just hoped that one day they would change their ways.

"I'm sorry they don't treat you right," Laxus apologised, speaking softly.

"Don't be," Freed instructed, standing up and walking to the window. He was in a study overlooking the Netherworld, and looked out over the dead before him. "I should have gotten over it by now."

"You shouldn't have to," Laxus insisted, standing up.

"Maybe it's for the best," Freed sighed, tapping his fingers against the windowsill. "I'm sure if they paid more attention to me then they'd look upon this world with distain. No doubt they'd have hundreds of issues with how I treat my subjects. With their logic they'd want me to torture the good and kneel before the bad."

"And they'd be wrong," Laxus assured him, wrapping his arms around the man. "You're a good man, Freed, and a damn good God, too."

"There's a certain level of irony in calling me a 'damn' good God," Freed chuckled, turning around in his lover's arms, grinning.

He pressed their lips together, Laxus leaning into the kiss softly. They had not kissed in a month and, even with their seemingly endless lives, that was far too long a time to go without it. Freed adored his Lightning God, the beautiful man who split open the skies with a wave of his hand, and created the most spectacular tapestries of light on the canvas of a cloudy night. He was a poet in actions, even if he refused the claim, and Freed was enamoured with the man and wished to show it with his kiss.

Love was something the humans had taught him. He liked it.

When they pulled apart, they stood in each other's arms with content expressions. Laxus looked spectacular like this, with a soft smile and no falseness on his face. He had once confessed that he truly only felt himself when with Freed. Though the sadness of the statement was not lost on him, Freed was thankful that he and his kingdom could offer the man sanctuary.

"You chose to come here through smoke, rather than your own cloud," Freed eventually spoke, and Laxus looked down on him with a quirk in his eyebrow. "May I assume that was so you could hide how you felt."

Laxus sighed. His ability to control the weather was slightly tethered to his emotions. The more emotional he felt, the stronger the impact of his abilities. If he was emotional, the lighting would be more ferocious, the thunder would echo louder, and the rain would be heavier. It also affected the clouds, and the darker his mood, the darker the clouds. Had he not used the smoke from Freed's fireplace, the cloud he summoned would have been blacker than the nights sky.

"I needed to prioritise you without you worrying," Laxus sighed. "You were upset, I wanted to make you feel better."

"I appreciate that," Freed nodded, bringing his hands up to stroke Laxus' cheeks. "But you need comfort too. So would you like to discuss what's wrong?"

Laxus took a moment, before deflating slightly.

"They're gonna fight, Freed," He whispered, almost not believing his own words. "I couldn't talk 'em down from it. I thought I could; Makarov at least would have listed to reason I thought. But neither of them even looked at me, they didn't care. Gramps said that Ivan would turn the world to darkness if left to his own devices, and Ivan said he should have killed him a millennia ago. There was nothing I could do."

"It wasn't your responsibility to stop them," Freed spoke softly. "Don't you dare start blaming this on yourself."

"They're both getting troops together. And nobody else can stop them because they're scared of 'em, so they're just gonna keep dragging everybody into the fight. I don't even think it's gonna be a fight, it's just gonna be the two of them pissed off and sending people to slaughter."

"It's unfortunate," Freed sighed. "But I'll do good by the dead, if that's any consolation."

"It ain't your job to clean up after them. And it shouldn't be the people's job to fight for them," Laxus argued with a growl. "They should just fucking fight between themselves if they need to. Why do they have to drag people into it?"

Freed didn't have an answer to that, so instead took his lovers hand in his own and held it. The man was shaking, and Freed felt that it wasn't entirely because of anger. He looked at the man's face and his heart almost broke. Laxus was portraying anger, but Freed had looked at enough humans faces to know fear when he saw it. He pressed their foreheads together in a gesture that hopefully calmed the man, before he spoke.

"I won't let them take you if you don't want to fight," He promised softly.

"You can't stop them," Laxus sighed, leaning against Freed. "They'll invade this place and rip apart everything you've done if they want to."

"Perhaps they won't want to."

"He called me a strategic advantage," Laxus sighed. "Ivan, my own father, said having me on his side would be a strategic advantage. I command the sky, so having me fight for them would ensue a victory. And gramps didn't say it, but he knows that it's true. They ain't gonna let me hide away. And I'm not gonna let them bring their fight here because of me."

Freed wanted to argue the point, but couldn't. The fight would take place in the skies. Having someone bring lightning down on any oncoming army would be invaluable. But Laxus didn't need to hear that.

"You can stay with me for as long as you please," Freed promised. "But you're right. You probably will be brought into the fight, so I want you to make me a promise."

"Anything," Laxus nodded.

"Pick the right side," Freed said firmly. "There is cruelty in them both, but we both know who the better leader will be. And so long as you have the choice in who you fight for, you must promise me that you pick the right one."

"I will," Laxus promised, and brought both of Freed's hands to his mouth to kiss, as if sealing the promise.

"How long do you expect we have until the war begins?" Freed asked.

"Months, at most," Laxus sighed. "I don't know when exactly, but everyone seems to know this is gonna be important, and neither side is gonna want to make a mistake early on. So they'll take time to build up their support and make their armies stronger. But they both wanna make the first hit, so they can't be building forever. In a year's time we'll be in deep."

"Perhaps we could do something," Freed offered. "Sabotage them in some way."

"They'll have more defences than we can imagine," Laxus rebutted. "Right now, I just wanna sleep."

"My bed chamber is always open for use for you," Freed assured him, unwrapping himself from his lover's arms. "Take all the time you need."

"Only if you join me," Laxus said, voice firm. "Ever and Bix already told me that you've been working yourself hard, and that you've been delaying sleep when you can get away with it. So if I sleep, then you have to too."

"If you insist," Freed said with a smile. "And I suppose it's appropriate."

"What d'you mean?"

"Well, given that we're in the Netherworld, sleeping seems appropriate," He looked to Laxus with a mischievous grin. "Where else is there to rest in peace?"

Laxus barked out a disbelieving laugh. "You've the most fucking morbid sense of humour, it's fucking great."

And, in spite of the situation, both men smiled as they retired to bed.

~~~

I believe that the 'Knight of Judgment' is a unique painting as it shows what was important to Freed in the days of the war.

Located in the lower regions of the painting, you can see both Laxus and the Raijinshuu. They are shown to be sitting at a table, which multiple artists and historians agree signifies how they influenced Freed in his actions. In many ways, this is a representation of Freed's own Table of the Gods, with those he held close holding his council.

The location of them in the painting is also significant. They are placed in his stomach: they are a part of him that he carried with him throughout the darkest days of his life.

It is a great sorrow that he needed to be secluded from them for the war to end.

The affect that the war had on the Netherworld was unique. Although the realm was secluded and the battle never neared the doors to the Netherworld, the impact of the fighting was said to have been felt in different ways. An overall atmosphere of unease is said to have filled the land, and there was an obvious influx of the dead. Both humans and angels were being slayed at an alarming rate.

The horrors of the war were unseen, but not unknown.

It is said that Freed often found himself at the doors of the Netherworld, contemplating seeing the fray first hand. He stopped himself each time, instead putting his focus on the new wave of deaths that came with each day. At this time, he relied on his friends and lover for support. As often told, this reliance could only last for so long.

Levy McGarden; An Examination and Retelling of the Fiorean Gods

~~~

"I'm glad that you're here again," Freed said softly.

The God was lying on his large bed, arm in arm with his lover. Draped in velvet sheets, Freed couldn't help the look of fondness that adorned his features, nor did he care to try. It had been months since he had last had Laxus in his arms, and the loss of his lover's presence was starting to take effect. When he had felt the familiar static, humidity, and chill, he had worn a smile that could almost be described as giddy.

He had needed something to make him happy. The war had brought wave after wave of dead, meaning Freed and his demons were worked to the bone in accommodating them. Every day, hundreds of scared people were brought to his door, traumatised from their murder.

Every day, his anger at the fighting Gods increased.

Freed had worked himself harder than he'd ever needed to. Not only did he go about his usual roles as leader, but he also tried to assist his demons. Sometimes he would search the plains of the Netherworld to find lost souls. Sometimes he would work with The Raijinshuu to merge a body with its owner. Sometimes he would go to the city and build homes for the newly deceased. Ivan and Makarov had already taken their lives away, Freed should do whatever he could to keep them safe in his domain.

He and Laxus had spoken often, but not once in person. Laxus had been doing whatever he could to calm the fighting, even in the smallest of ways. He worked mainly with his grandfather, trying to veer him away from more destructive ways of attack. He had been successful for a while, but Ivan's power was growing and apparently it was getting harder for Laxus to keep Makarov's destructive plans at bay.

The longer the war lasted, the harder it was for Laxus to do anything really.

It was why he had come to Freed's castle. They both knew it.

"Sorry it ain't with better news," Laxus sighed, placing a hand on Freed's cheek with adoration in his eyes. "They're not gonna stop until someone wins. And I think they're just gonna get worse."

"So there's no point in trying to mediate anymore," Freed concluded.

"I think I have to join in first hand," Laxus said in a defeated tone, and Freed stroked his cheek with his knuckle. "I'm not doing anything on the side-lines anymore, they're both too focused on the fight to listen anymore. At least if I join in now, I get to choose which side I'm on rather than being dragged into it against my will."

"And, for full clarity, who's side will you be fighting for?" Freed asked, cautiously.

He was almost certain as to who Laxus would side with, but couldn't be sure. Ivan was a master manipulator and had unfortunately groomed Laxus into being his ideal child before Laxus had left him. It was always a lingering worry of Freed's that Laxus might be manipulated again.

He trusted the man, though. He had to.

"Gramps," Laxus said, nodding slightly to affirm his choice. "The way he's fighting is fucking awful, and he's not acting like he used to. But he's definitely the better of two evils right now. If Ivan wins control, everything he wants is so twisted and cruel. And if we can't get them in a room to talk it out, or stop it some other way, then we have to stop him with force. And, like he said, whatever side has me on it has an advantage. Might as well use it for some good, I guess."

"It's not right that they use you as a weapon," Freed sighed, pressing their foreheads together.

"I'd rather be a weapon for good, than nothing," Laxus mumbled, but there was a level of defeat in his tone.

Freed hated hearing his lover in such a state. His relationship with his father had always been strained, but Laxus had looked up to his grandfather and loved the man dearly. But the way he spoke of Makarov as of late made Freed think he was a shell of his former self. His defence of his values had made him cruel. Makarov preached love and family more than most Gods, and yet he sent people to die to keep these values. He had become a hypocrite of the worst kind, and it seemed to be hurting Laxus more than he would admit.

Placing a hand on Laxus' cheek, Freed looked at him with a soft expression. Laxus closed his eyes and leant into his hand, and it was clear how much strain the man was putting on himself. Freed let his face turn sad for a moment.

"He's not as he used to be, is he?" He eventually asked, speaking about Makarov.

"He's so focused on winning the fight, he's not paying attention to what he's doing," Laxus admitted. "Sometimes, I worry what he'll be like when the war's over."

"You need to make sure he keeps his humanity then," Freed said as he nuzzled further into his lover's grasp. "If you're going to be fighting with him, then you can at least try and keep him sane and kind."

"I'll do what I can, but I might have lost him already."

Before Freed could try to argue the point, Laxus shifted so he was sitting up in the bed. He made a gesture with his hand, and a dark cloud crackled to life in front of them, with lighting shimmering all over it. Freed recognised it as the same spell they had been using to talk when away from each other. It was essentially a looking glass into another location; Laxus was showing him part of the war, something Freed hadn't yet been privy too.

It was abhorrent.

The fighting was taking place over the ocean, and it looked near cataclysmic. Huge waves were sloshing and forming, higher than any wave should be. They crashed into oncoming soldiers with thoughtless ferocity, and Ivan's fighters looked practically ant-like against the attacks from the sea. They were washed away, most probably drowning. Despite knowing what the world would be like if Ivan's troops won, Freed felt something like sympathy for them.

In the centre of the spyglass stood Juvia, Goddess of the Sea, who was clearly controlling the ocean. Her expression was stern and face without regret. Standing either side of her were Natsu, God of Fire, and Lucy, Goddess of the Stars.

Lucy's eyes glowed and she raised a hand into the air. Suddenly the nights sky was plunged into darkness, as if all of the stars had been extinguished within a moment. Even knowing that behind the darkness was a hellish fighting, it was almost a moment of calm. Just the darkness and the sound of the ocean.

And then there was screaming. Fire spread through the enemy forces, illuminating their pain and nothing else. The removal of light had been a distraction that allowed Natsu to climb aboard the ships of the opposing troops. Some of them jumped over the edge of the boats, and found themselves churned up in a whirlpool of Juvia's creation. It was only when he saw the angels battered against the rocks did Freed realise how close they were to the coast.

How close they were to the humans, who had nothing to do with the fight.

It was sickening to watch, made worse by the fact Freed knew the three Gods responsible. Natsu and Lucy were some of the most optimistic people he had met, and had never judged him. And although he didn't know Juvia well, she had always been kind to him. Everything he watched contrasted with what he knew of these people.

"Gramps orchestrated this," Laxus sighed, flicking his wrist, and removing the spyglass.

"Yes," Freed agreed, voice quiet. "I expect it isn't easy to see."

"I told him not to do it," Laxus said with a growl. "I told him that he shouldn't do it near the coast, that people are gonna die because of it. And not just because they get dragged into the whirlpool, but because it's gonna affect the landscape. Juvia can't make water, so she's getting it from the clouds. It won't rain for months so crops are gonna die. And the fish ain't gonna be where they should be, so who fucking knows when they're gonna eat."

"Don't hold yourself accountable for that," Freed said firmly.

"But when I join the fight, it'll be my fucking fault," Laxus exclaimed with equal parts annoyance and exasperation. "But I can't let that stop me, because if I stay out of the fight then I'll either be complacent in it or I'll be dragged into it and forced to do the same crap against my own will. It's just… it's just shit."

Rather than speaking – there was nothing he could say to make it better – Freed kissed his lover slowly. Laxus moved his lips with Freed's, and it was almost in a desperate way. It was awful to see Laxus with such fear in his soul. Freed wished he could do more.

"Even in this war, you are still your own man, Laxus," Freed said softly, pulling apart. "You have your own mind, your own opinions, and your own morality. If you don't want to change, then you don't have to. Hold onto yourself, that's all you can do."

"What if I can't?" Laxus asked weakly.

"You can," Freed assured him. "You have fought against the influences of your family constantly, and you have become the best of them because of it. It will be difficult from time to time, I'm sure, but I know you Laxus. I know you well enough to be sure you will never change your values for anyone, let alone your father and grandfather."

Laxus took a moment to think, and Freed pressed their foreheads together. It was a silent reminder that he was there for him.

"Thanks," Laxus eventually said. "For being here, and for saying all of that."

"I mean it," Freed reaffirmed, stroking Laxus' cheek again. "You have a stubborn side like no other, it's rather an attractive quality for me."

Laxus laughed slightly, appreciating Freed's attempt at lifting the mood slightly. He pressed their lips together in a soft and chaste kiss, wrapping his arm around Freed's waist and pulling their bodies closer to each other. Laxus often felt more comfortable under the protection of Freed's sheets than he did in his own home. Freed's castle felt so far detached from the reality of what was happening, it was like a safe haven for him. The irony wasn't lost on Laxus.

"I'll talk to Gramps about what I can do to help," Laxus eventually said. "While I still can. And like ya said, maybe if I'm fighting on his side then I can try and keep him kind."

"It's probably for the best," Freed agreed, but the worlds felt like acid.

Of course he didn't want Laxus in the fight, but he knew his personal opinion wasn't needed now. If he could have his way, Laxus would happily reside in his castle for the entirety of the war. But that wasn't possible, and Laxus would make a difference. Freed just had to hope that Laxus' inclusion could shorten the length of the war and stop the deaths.

It was an unlikely hope, but all Freed had.

"Can I stay here before I do it," Laxus asked softly, almost weakly. "I need to be with you."

"For as long as you need," Freed promised.

When they fell asleep, they both felt sick with what was to come.

~~~

Many people begin telling the story of how the war ended long after Laxus had become involved. As Freed and Laxus' relationship is often disregarded and forgotten, many people don't see the significance of Laxus' choice to join the fight and leave the Death God in his realm. Most people just see this as another God being forced to take a side and fight, but it was much more.

Laxus leaving to fight was a further hit to Freed. The added work and general disrespect from other God's had already taken affect, and to have these Gods take his lover from him, and to hurt his lover in the way they did, was something of a breaking point.

In retrospect, this is possibly the moment Freed's descent began.

Of course we can only conclude this with the advantage of history. The story of how Freed the Dark got his title is one often untold, and therefore unexplored. But there is a general consensus that it was due to the seclusion he enforced on himself after those he loved were dragged into the fight. This was the first example of this happening for the God, and is seen as the first real hit the man's sanity took.

The change was gradual, and often his own tendencies were the most self-destructive. In the ensuing days and weeks, Freed's temperament got worse and his actions became more thoughtless. It is said that this wasn't clear to most at the time, but with the benefit of hindsight those close to him could see the affect his lover's absence had on him.

To truly explore how Freed became the man who stopped the war, we must explain his descent into solitude. The next step in that process came on the day he sent away the Raijinshuu, and left his castle empty.

Levy McGarden; An Examination and Retelling of the Fiorean Gods

~~~

Humans could be quite antagonising, Freed was finding.

He had always done this. As part of being the lord of the Netherworld, he tried his best to make the realm as pleasant for his subjects as he could. Being in complete control of everything meant he had abilities beyond the regular king, and therefore could be a better server to his kingdom. Because of this, he had always allowed his subjects to talk to him, make requests of him in ways that could improve their afterlife.

Today was one such a day. When the dawn had arisen, a queue of the dead had spiralled around the walls of the castle. The majority of them were recently deceased, and Freed knew the moment he laid eyes on them that they didn't want anything of importance, but rather childish requests that Freed had no interest in granting.

He was in a foul mood before he saw the first person. It did not get better.

The requests were ridiculous. Two ex-lovers had their homes in the same street and spent five minutes arguing that the other should be moved to the far end of the city. An adult man had asked for the water in his home to be turned into wine, and claimed it was because of religious beliefs and denying him would be an affront to his faith; it would be an affront to his alcoholism if anything.

And now he was forced to endure an elderly woman ranting at him, claiming her neighbours had been stealing her food provisions and should be punished for it. Her suggestion was that he and his family be starved for a week and to have his food supplies lessened permanently. It was absurd. He was a God, not a mediator for ridiculous arguments. It was tempting to starve her out of spite.

Still, at least he could let his mind wonder and drown out the obsessive whining of the humans for a little while.

With the hordes of the dead coming to his world because of the war, he hadn't had time to relax. Even when he did have a few moments to himself, his mind usually went to Laxus and whatever he might be doing. That was never for good.

It had been months since they had even spoken to one another. After Laxus decided to join the fight, they had spent a few days together before the blonde had returned to the skies to take his grandfather's side and join the battle. After that, they hadn't so much as seen one another. Freed had no idea what his lover was doing, if he was safe, or if he was in danger. The absence of the man he loved was starting to affect him.

In the past, even on the long stretches where they couldn't see each other in person, they could at least talk. But not this time, and Freed missed him. Now he just had idiot humans to distract him.

The amusement was wearing thin.

Because these ridiculous creatures were not treating him like a God. They were not treating him as something to be feared or looked up to. They were treating him as some odd wish granter who is supposed to care about their damn stupid problems!

"May I interrupt you, ma'am," Freed snapped suddenly, hands gripping the side of the throne.

Apparently the woman was the breaking point for him. She stopped, and looked to him almost affronted.

"Because if I'm completely honest with you ma'am, I couldn't give less of a damn about your problems, ma'am. In fact, ma'am, you're such a tedious person that I'm considering granting your neighbour twice the food than he gets now out of spite of you. So, ma'am, I feel as though it's in your best interest to shut your damned mouth right now before my spite becomes something more sour."

The woman looked at him with a gape. Freed glared at her. Did she not understand that he was a God?

"I allow you my council because I wish to make this place good for you all," Freed continued. He stood up from his throne and started to pace. Those in the room all looked towards him. "I make changes to accommodate you all. And this is what you want from me? To act as a ridiculous mediator for all your petty bullshit."

"Petty?" The woman had the arrogance to actually scoff as if offended.

"Quiet!" He yelled, and the glass in the room cracked at the echoing sound. His jaw clenched and he glared at the woman. "I am a God. I am above you, yet nobody seems to understand that. I am not a fucking serviceman; I am your better!"

Freed's tempered flared, and his eyes pulsated with darkness. From the corner of the room, Bickslow winced a little at the rise in anger. He went to speak but Freed interrupted.

"All of you leave," He roared at the congregated humans in his throne room. "Get out. Now!"

"But we've been waiting since sunset last night," One of the men in the line protested, and Freed turned his glare to him.

"Then you'll learn that next time you should get here earlier, won't you," He spat, acid dripping into his tone and he stalked towards the man. He cowered below Freed, and the God would be lying if he said it wasn't satisfying. When he next spoke, his voice was a calm, threatening tone. "If you have any further objections, I would be delighted to hear them. But be warned of the consequences if I disagree with you."

Bickslow opened the door to the throne room and ushered the humans out before anybody could speak further, shutting the door when it was just him and the God. Freed stormed towards his throne and collapsed onto it, eyes still a shadowy purple glow.

Rather than speaking, the demon simply waited for the God to calm down. Freed was typically a calm man, only reserving his anger for when he had met with other Gods, so to see him acting in such a way as a result of speaking with humans was unusual and concerning. Bickslow knew, when Freed's rage had gotten the best of him, that it was best to allow the man to decompress and let his anger dissipate without interrupting him.

The silence lasted a short while, and was only interrupted when the door to the throne room opened. Bickslow let out a held breath when he saw that it was Evergreen, rather than someone who didn't know Freed and might further his anger. She, too, didn't say anything and waited for Freed to calm, giving him a concerned expression; she must have seen the humans retreating.

"Mindless cretins," Freed eventually said, his voice quieter now. "I am a God, for fucks sake. Does nobody understand that?"

"What actually happened?" Evergreen asked, walking towards Freed and speaking softly.

"The same thing that always happens," Freed growled, though it was aimed more at his lap than at the demon. "I attempt to show an ounce of kindness to people and they see it as weakness. I am their God and they disrespect me, treat me like one of their own. Perhaps the idiots at that intolerable table were correct and I should treat my subjects with cruelty. At least then I wouldn't be forced to endure their mindless whining about their ridiculous problems."

"You know you don't mean that," Bickslow sighed, placing a hand on Freed's shoulder. "She was fucking stupid. You know some people are just up their own asses. There're thousands of people who respect you because you ain't some dictator."

"Perhaps," Freed said, though his voice didn't portray confidence.

"He's right Freed," Evergreen encouraged, sitting on the arm of the throne, and smiling at the God. "Remember what you told Laxus before he left. He has to make sure he doesn't change who he is. You have to do the same thing, keep yourself kind."

Freed didn't say anything, and deflated at the sound of his lover's name. Bickslow and Evergreen shared a look at that.

Though the two of them had known Laxus was important to Freed, they hadn't known just how much the God cared for him until recently. Freed's mood had changed slightly, and he was both more forlorn and had a shorter temper. It was clear that Laxus had been some kind of a light in Freed's life, in some sense, and to have him ripped away from him and into a warzone was harming Freed more than he let on.

The influx of work probably wasn't helping either and the God was facing more stress than he probably ever had before. They did their best to keep him happy, of course, but Freed insisted on keeping himself busy and making more work for himself than needed.

"He'll come back eventually," Bickslow said, in a voice almost soft. He patted the man's shoulder gently.

"He hasn't yet," Freed snapped, looking up with a glare.

"We know he hasn't, Freed," Evergreen sighed, placing a hand on his thigh comfortingly. "But you had to know that it'd take a while for anything to give."

"I suppose," Freed let his gaze fall again.

"You just gotta make sure you're still the man he loves when he comes back," Bickslow grinned. "And that's why you've got the two of us, right? So we can keep you on the straight and narrow for your man. That way, when he comes back covered in scars and even hotter than he was before, the two of you can pick up where you left off and start kissing each other. And you won't have to do it with Ivan Fuckface in charge."

"I suppose not," Freed chuckled, and it was only slightly bitter. "I do understand that what he's doing is important. I just miss him."

"Of course you do," Evergreen smiled. "I don't know what it's like, but the way you smile at him shows how much you care. But you just need to be patient."

Freed agreed with the statement, but didn't say anything. Selfishly he would have rather Laxus not go to the war. He would have offered the man safe haven in his castle and fought off the forces who tried to take him, and he would do so with both tooth and claw. But his demons were right; Laxus needed to fight for the more moral side and Freed couldn't stop him. If Freed were any other God, he too would probably be fighting on Makarov's side at that moment. But he had to look after his people, and doing that meant he had to allow his lover some trust.

"Thank you for putting up with me," Freed eventually spoke again. "I understand that it might get annoying listening to me complain about not being treated well, I'm sorry."

"We agree with you, idiot," Bickslow laughed. "The Gods are dicks to you and some of the new guys down here don't know a good thing when they see it, and they complain about it. You're allowed to rant at us whenever you want."

"Whenever we meet another God's angel and they talk about how they're treated, we realise just how good we get it with you," Evergreen laughed. "And that's quite a claim, because you can be quite annoying when you want to be."

"Oh," Freed raised an eyebrow. He knew Evergreen was baiting him to another, more cheerful topic, and he allowed it to happen. "Give me an example."

"I know," Bickslow grinned, voice loud again to lift the mood. The demons were doing what they always did to get Freed out of a bad mood, wait until he was willing to talk and then be optimistic and loud. "When you saw her looking at the Strauss brother with moony eyes so got him to work in the castle and then you made the climate warmer, so he'd take his shirt off to make Ever implode."

"Yes," Ever muttered. "That was annoying."

Freed chuckled, and his shoulders relaxed, and jaw unclenched. He relaxed in his throne and glanced to the window that had shattered at his shout. He waved a hand towards it and it slowly started to melt back into place.

Just like Laxus' magic was connected to the weather; Freed's was connected to the structure of the Netherworld. He managed to keep his destructive tendencies to the castle, and when he was calm he would fix anything he had broken in his anger. He didn't miss the shared smile of his demons when the window was fixed. They clearly knew that, to an extent, his mental wellbeing was reflected by the structure of his home. Laxus had storm clouds, Freed had crumbling stone.

"The two of you are far too good for me," Freed claimed, cricking his neck.

"You're only saying that because you haven't seen how obedient some of the other angels are," Bickslow chuckled.

Obedience was much less appealing than having friends. Freed wasn't going to say that, though.

"You're fine as you are," Freed assured them.

"That's good. I doubt we'll change anytime soon," Evergreen chuckled, smiling. "But, you do know that if there's anything we can do for you, you just have to ask. We know that this isn't easy for you."

Freed thought for a moment. There was, of course, one thing that he wanted to ask of his demons, but he couldn't. It was a purely selfish request and could endanger their wellbeing. He dismissed the thought almost as it came to him, but apparently his demons had seen the momentary flicker of an idea strike him. They looked at him expectantly, and that didn't stop when he made a passive motion with his hand.

"You needn't do this if you don't want to," Freed began. "In fact it's probably better if you don't. It's a fanciful idea at best."

"Tell us," Evergreen requested.

"Laxus. I need to know that he's alive, and safe," Freed admitted, weakly. "It's killing me not knowing what's happening with him."

"You want us to find him and make sure he ain't injured?" Bickslow concluded, raising an eyebrow towards Freed.

The God nodded, though had no expectations that his demons would indulge his ideas. Bickslow and Evergreen looked to one another and seemed to have a silent conversation between themselves; Freed had often wondered if his demons could actually speak without their voice and they just hadn't told him. After a few seconds of silent communication, they looked back to Freed with a concerning amount of determination in their expressions.

"Will you be okay without us?" Evergreen asked, and her voice was serious.

"You're considering it?" Freed asked. They both nodded, and Freed felt a mixture of sickness and relief. "I-I can merge souls on my own. That's most of your responsibilities as of late."

"We meant if you could look after yourself while we're gone, Freed," Bickslow sighed.

"If I can look after a realm of millions, I can look after myself," Freed spoke with offence shaping his tone. He knew of their reason for asking though.

"We'll leave in the morning," Bickslow stated, and Evergreen nodded.

Freed looked at his demons with shock. He knew they had respect and fondness for him, but hadn't expected this. He was asking his friends to walk into the most vicious battlefield in history, and all because he couldn't bear to not know what was happening with his lover. It was an almost pathetic request and yet they were happy to risk their lives for it.

"Thank you," He whispered, bowing his head to them.

They both smiled, and it made Freed's stomach ache. He loved them both, and they were too good to him, despite their protests. Anyone willing to walk through hell for him was worth more than Freed could give them.

And tomorrow, they would be gone…

He would be alone in his castle.

And he would have to deal with that.

~~~

It is unclear as to how long Freed expected his demons to be gone from The Netherworld, looking for his lover. Many of the records claim it was only meant to be days, but that is heavily contested and criticised. But no matter what the expectations, the time taken to gather any information on Laxus' state was long enough to have a great effect on Freed.

Again, this is something reflected in the 'Knight of Judgement' art piece. The flowers located in both the death Gods eye and heart are reflective of his emotional state.

Art historians claim that the flower located in Freed's eye is reflective of the beauty he saw in the world, and the people. The encroaching purple effect is a show of how, without those he loved to influence his actions, that optimism and beauty he saw in existence was slowly being taken away in his solitude.

The flower in his chest is said to be orange and red as his heart is stained with blood. It acts as a mirror for the more violent side of the man after his loved ones left, something that gets more and more prominent as his seclusion continues.

This can be seen in his interaction with the angel known as Jackal.

Jackal is known to be a cursed angel, a criminal of the war and part of Ivan's Tartaros Nine. He is responsible for some of the most brutal deaths during the war, many of which were humans who he saw collateral damage. He is said to be one of the most sadistically cruel of the angels on Ivan's side, and has often been shown as the man who encouraged Ivan into his most aggressive and twisted attacks.

The death of the angel was seen as a large victory for Makarov's side, and the strike of lightning that sank his ship and led to his drowning is sometimes accredited for a shift in the war. Many people think Jackal's story ends there, but this is untrue.

Jackal's story truly ends in the afterlife, with Freed. And for those with a sensitive disposition, I advise caution into reading the details of this meeting.

Levy McGarden; An Examination and Retelling of the Fiorean Gods

~~~

At the back left of Freed's castle was a tower.

Inside the tower was a room that often went unused. A torture chamber of sorts.

Often, those who might have justifiably occupied such a room were never given an afterlife. Luck seemed determined to spawn their souls and bodies in places where they couldn't be found, meaning the truly cruel people usually had their bodies composted and their souls fizzled by insanity before they could even near an afterlife. Fate must determine that death being permanent a larger punishment than anything Freed could have done to them.

That apparently wasn't seen as true with a certain person. Both the body and the soul of Jackal had formed at the foot of Freed's door. It was practically an offering, and Freed understood what he had to do.

An angel's death was similar to a human's, in the Netherworld. Although they were considerably rarer, the process was the same. Death ripped apart the soul and the body, and if they were brought back then they would be indistinguishable from humans. Other than the demons and Freed himself, nobody in the underworld was different from the other. That meant, whereas previously an angel would have a higher tolerance for pain, they were now as breakable and damageable than any human would be.

This was convenient, given what Freed was going to do.

He knew who Jackal was. The murderer of countless, the angel who bathed in the ashes of his victims, the Demigod of destruction. The titles he gained were overly dramatic, but were not exaggerated. Jackal was a murderer, and even the presence of his soul and body had seemingly sent a shiver down the Netherworld.

And he had been given straight to Freed. As a gift almost. The idea that the leader of the Netherworld would punish sinners was something greatly exaggerated, but Freed felt he could conform to the stereotype for now. It might be rather therapeutic.

Fun, even.

A welcome distraction too. After sending his closest demons into the warzone, he had been alone in the castle. The only interactions he'd had were with the people whose souls and bodies he had merged together, and he had dismissed them without a word. Being alone in his castle was something he hadn't experiences in millennia's, and he wasn't dealing with the situation. He was allowing his anger to permeate, with nobody to use as an outlet.

But now he had someone. His anger at how cruel the war had become, and how it affected those he loved, could now be directed at someone who has responsible for it.

Maybe that was why Jackal had been delivered to him where no cruel man had been before. Freed was now a fate worse than death.

The doors to the tower creaked and groaned as they slowly opened, and the light flittering into the room from behind Freed illuminated the dusty chamber dimly. Cobwebs cluttered the room, the stonework lacked the usual polish of the rest of the castle, and the only things that had any level of care attributed to them were the shackles, manacles and chains that were keeping the man contained.

Jackal couldn't move. Metal bands wrapped around his wrists, ankles, biceps, thighs, stomach, neck, and chest. A large metal plate blocked his mouth and, although it couldn't be seen, Freed knew that there was a rusted shaft of metal holding down the man's tongue and resting in his throat.

Freed looked at the man with no sympathy. He knew what he had done.

"Typically, the devil is meant to confront a person with their sins in a situation like this," Freed began, and Jackal looked at him. His expression was hidden by his bounds. "But I expect you lack the morality to feel guilt."

Jackal made a choking, raspy sound. He was laughing.

Freed's didn't show any reaction other than a slight tensing of his posture. He had heard stories about how Jackal worked. His sadistic nature was prevalent in everything he did, and one way he entertained himself was by toying with people. Many of the dead had been forced to beg for mercy by the man, only to have him kill them a moment later. It would be in keeping with his reputation for him to try and antagonise Freed, and he wasn't going to give the man the satisfaction of getting under his skin.

"No," Freed continued. "You much prefer the hands-on approach, I expect."

Clenching his fist, he slammed it forward in a sharp punch to the man's gut. It was a simple enough movement, but the God's strength mixed with the angel's newfound vulnerability forced out a small choking sound. Jackal quickly manipulated it into another throaty laugh, but the pain the action had caused was obvious. Freed looked at him with almost curiosity.

He punched the man three more times, in quick succession, hitting the same part of his stomach each time. His only partially restored body bruised easier than a living person would, and a purple mound spread from where Freed had punched. Jackal was still laughing.

The reaction was interesting to Freed. That was perhaps not what Jackal wanted from it.

"I'm curious to see what your intention is, with the laughter," Freed said, stepping back and looking at the man plainly. "Because even if you succeed in antagonising me, I won't let you out. You'll be here for as long as I want, and I'll hurt you in whatever way I see fit no matter how much you laugh, or how angry you make me."

He just kept laughing.

"Furthermore, if this is some form of manipulation to make me do something I might regret, then I must inform you that my mortality is not as rigid and clear cut as you might think. And with a man such as yourself, regret is unlikely to take effect."

He was still laughing.

And Freed didn't find himself annoyed by it, for the moment. He knew what a manipulator looked like; he had met Ivan after all. All men like that were clearly after a certain reaction and the worst outcome for them was to be denied it. So Freed turned to the side, looked at the large wheel that was attached to the chains containing Jackal, and began to turn it. The shackles tightened around the man, the chains started to stretch him, and the skin bruised beneath the metal.

"I expect you thought yourself above death, so you probably didn't bother to learn the rules of the Netherworld," Freed continued, removing his hands from the crank and looking back to his capture, who was wincing with his eyes. "Your body won't heal, at all. We have people with the ability to heal it, but they work for me, and they will not help you. So anything I do to you, will be a permanent fixture."

Freed absently ran a sharp nail down the man's leg. It split open as if cut by a knife, and Freed noticed the slight widening of the man's eyes.

Good.

"Of course I might heal you eventually. The definition of your muscles, and the lack of any blemishes, shows you keep pride in what you look like," Freed mused aloud, looking him up and down as one might assess their prey. "Ruining it multiple times in multiple ways might be interesting."

Jackal didn't react to that, but Freed had a feeling he would have a comment if he could speak. He thought only for a moment before placing his hand on the large metal gag, pulling it forward and taking the man's head with it. The leather straps flicked open at the pressure, and Freed pulled the rusted iron out of his prisoners' mouth. He didn't miss the raspy cough that Jackal allowed, nor did he miss his dried lips.

He was more affected than he was letting on. Freed almost felt some sympathy.

But he knew what this man had done. The purposeful attacks on the shorelines just to kill humans and hurt them. The joyous laughter he had projected as the skies lit up with death and anguish. The disregard for anything other than his own twisted amusement. This man had lost his chance at sympathy more times than it was possible to count.

"So you're the corpse fucker Ivan's always talkin' about," Jackal rasped.

"He's yet to come up with a more creative insult, it seems," Freed brushed the comment off. "A pity."

Before Jackal could say anything again, he grabbed the man by his neck and lifted him up. The chains fought against it, and strained their grip on Jackal. Freed's claw like nails dug into the man's neck and a slight trail of blood slithered down one of Freed's fingers. Now without the obtrusive gag, Freed could see more how the man was shaking and gritting his teeth to stop some kind of exhalation of pain. Freed's grasp tightened just a little.

"I'm conflicted on how to treat you, Jackal," Freed stated, forcing eye contact with the bound man. "Given this is a form of punishment, it seems only right there to be some kind of irony involved. Perhaps for everyone you've made cry, I should make you cry. For everyone you've left to burn, I burn you. Perhaps I could invite your victims here, use you as a form of entertainment for them. Have them flog you and laugh as you weep, which you will. Although, selfishly, it might be more fun if I were to make you my personal… plaything."

Jackal laughed hoarsely. "Heard that you were a pacifist. This is a surprise."

"Who told you that," Freed chuckled, pushing his claws further into the man's neck. Something popped under the pressure; he didn't know what, but there was more blood now.

"Everyone," Jackal said, and he gargled. Blood was coming from his mouth. "They say you got corrupted by those fucking half-life's you let in here and those little bitch demons. Say that they made ya weak."

"Perhaps they did," Freed mused. "But do you know what else they did?" He leant close to Jackal, grinning. "They left me. And now it's just you and me."

Freed pushed the man forward, as if throwing him to the side, but the chains kept him where he was. Blood slid out of some of the wounds Freed gave him, but he was still laughing weakly. Freed looked at him with intrigue, but didn't say anything. He let the man laugh for a little while before he tired himself out, then he spoke again.

"You see, I've had a lot of time to think as of late," Freed mused, looking at the man as the amusement was settled. "And I've decided, the war doesn't make me sad. It doesn't make me feel bad. It makes me feel angry. Because an imbecilic man and his equally idiotic father decided to take out their anger on the world. Just to destroy it. Not because they need to fight, nor because anything needs to change. Because they're ridiculous little people with so much arrogance that they think they're problems are the world's problems.

"And then there's people like you. The enablers. The puppet masters, perhaps. The people whispering in their ears, telling them they need to act larger. Get angrier and more destructive. To go bigger and stronger because that's what power demands and that's what happens in wars. And all just to feed your evil wank fantasies. You saw an opportunity and you took it, and expected no consequences."

Freed slammed his fist forward and punched the man in his gut again, and Jackal visibly deflated at the action, coughing up blood. The bruise on the man's stomach got larger, and Jackal's laughter was weaker this time.

"Interesting," Jackal commented, voice gravely and quiet now.

"Speak up," Freed demanded with a sharp tone.

"I said it's interesting. Which of the Dreyar's you chose to mention," Jackal cackled, looking up at Freed with a manic grin. Freed's posture tightened at the statement. "You talk about Ivan and the decrepit bastard. But not little Laxus."

"The point being?" Freed demanded, the sound of Laxus' name on the angel's tongue sounding wrong. Evil.

"We all fucking know about what the two of you fuckers do when he's down here," Jackal laughed manically, and Freed tensed. "And daddy Ivan isn't happy. And when he wins he's gonna come down here and get ya. And I've heard what he's gonna do to ya. And you're not gonna like it. And he's gonna make little Laxus watch as he rips open his demonic little secret."

"Don't assume you have the right to say his name."

"What are ya gonna do to stop me," Jackal giggled, allowing himself to go limp in the chains. "Lock me up. Torture me. It ain't working yet. And that'd be ironic – since ya like irony – that you'd be hurting me because little Laxus is away. Because that's why you're acting like this, and not just letting me die. Because you miss him. Ain't that just fucking sweet."

"Don't say his name."

"Or maybe you just miss him shoving his dick in your ass," Jackal cackled again, eyes wide and unhinged as he looked at his torturer. "You'll might have to get used to it. Because if Ivan has his way, there won't be much left of your fuck toy when the war is done."

Freed paused at that, then his gaze sharpened.

"What do you mean?" He asked, voice cutting. "What does he intend to do."

"Oh, I don't think I want to tell you yet," Jackal laughed. "I just heard that Ivan needs a nice little powerhouse for the rest of the fight and has his eyes on little Laxus. But once he's won, he doesn't need him anymore. And he had a lot of plans for traitors, and your Lightning God is the most traitorous little fucker of all. I won't tell you all of what he'll go through. But I think that it will be spectacular, I just wished I could see it."

There was a moment of silence. Then Freed saw red.

Everything that had happened since the war began flashed into his mind. The endless slaughter of innocent people. The forced involvement of his lover. The decisions made to force his friends into the fray. The slow but persistent chipping away at his kindness. The cruelty shown by all who were involved. Everything was twisted and wrong.

And here, before him, was Jackal. An orchestrator of this hellish existence. A manipulator and abuser.

Someone who deserved agony.

He slammed his hand forward again, eyes glowing. Darkness swirled up his arm and manipulated his flesh, replacing his skin with fur and talons and his hand with a claw. He reached out with a snarl, his drumming heartbeat drowning out the sound of Jackal's laughter. His claw dug into the man's chest, ripping open his flesh as if it were nothing. He dug in further, cutting through the flesh, muscle, and bone before finding his target, and he grabbed it.

The man's heart.

He pulled.

Jackal screamed.

Blood dripped from both the wound and the organ, before Jackal slumped. The removed of a heart was a way of killing the undead. It would ensure that the body and soul were split apart again, and couldn't be returned. The rest of the soul's partial existence would be agony. An infinite hell preserved by the last flickers of consciousness.

Freed dropped the organ, letting it fall to the ground. He spun on his heel and allowed the body to slump and bruise in chains, not sparing the angel another glance.

After leaving the room, his boots clicked on the marble as he walked down a corridor. Either side was a stained-glass depiction of both Evergreen and Bickslow, decorations that hadn't been there before. The castle was trying to tell him something, apparently. Either a warning or a judgment on his morality. Freed spared them a glance but stormed through it without much care for his friend's depictions.

At the end of the corridor, he slammed the door shut. The corridor crumbled to nothing behind him, destroying the glass visages of his friends as it did. It was just wreckage in his wake.

~~~

The hand with which Freed removed Jackal's heart was his right. The 'Knight of Judgement' art piece portrays his right hand as being overtaken by thorn like chains, showing the affect the darkness had on him. It acts as judgment for what he did, and when he allowed his cruelty to overtake him and taint his actions.

After that day, Freed was changed. This art piece shows it.

Although it is argued as to whether Freed's actions were justified or not, it is almost unanimous that this was the only time Freed acted solely out of blind rage and anger. This was the only time in the war where he lost himself entirely to his emotions.

Also often disputed is why Freed had destroyed the corridor leading to the torture tower. Some claim he did so because he wished the block his path from the room off so that he could move on from what he had done and not repeat it. Others claim it was a clear objection to the judgment of Bickslow and Evergreen through their stained-glass visages. Either way, the corridor was one room that was never fixed after its destruction.

Despite the fact Freed never acted out of blind anger again, his mind did not heal immediately. The following weeks, he secluded himself in his castle. No demons nor humans were allowed in. The doors were replaced by walls, the windows bricked up, and moat surrounding it filled with melted stones and magma. He had finalised his own prison.

His self-destruction and seclusion continued for a while longer, the precise time is unknown. What is known is that the next time Freed would see any other creature is the return of his demons to the Netherworld, which is often where the story of the end of the war is said to begin.

Levy McGarden; An Examination and Retelling of the Fiorean Gods

~~~

There was something wrong in the Netherworld.

It was the first thing that Bickslow and Evergreen noticed when they returned. There was a certain edge to the atmosphere that hadn't been present before. Whereas previously the Netherworld had been welcoming by design – death was jarring enough, why make the new environment hostile to the deceased – now it was darker and sharper almost. It was no longer the bustling city it had once been, but instead was a shell of itself, an endless expanse of buildings.

Two demons glanced at each other with concern. The people who should have populated the streets were nowhere to be seen, the ever-present sound of talking that came with humans had been lost, and the feeling of loneliness was practically palpable.

Their immediate concern was for their God.

As they flew through the streets, they could see the dead were in their homes. Some people were working the farms needed to keep food, but only the bare minimum. The Netherworld was a skeleton of what it once was, and everything the two demons saw were making them more worried for their friend. Freed had done whatever he could to make the place better than this, so to see what had happened in their absence was more than concerning.

"Maybe we should have stayed with him," Bickslow sighed. "At least one of us."

"There's no point in dwelling on that," Evergreen said, looking at the abandoned streets with a frown. "We should just get to him as soon as we can and try and help him."

"Guess we should."

The demons sped up their flight through the city, both wearing expressions of concern as they got nearer and nearer to the castle where their God resided. As the building became more than just a silhouette, they both looked at it with wide eyes.

Whereas previously it had been somewhat welcoming, it now stood both secluded and crumbling. The windows had been replaced by bricks, the moat had been expanded to the point where the castle was on its own island, and the drawbridge was lifted and bolted upright. The brickwork was cracked, and it was clear some of the more vulnerable pieces of stone had fallen to the ground below. Doors were removed and any form of entrance seemed blocked up or destroyed. It was entirely closed off, no doubt with Freed inside.

After flitting around the top of the castle in hopes of finding an entrance, their concern grew. Freed was secluding himself. Completely.

Of course, they couldn't allow this. Freed was a man more emotional than he would openly admit, and clearly the toll of the war was affecting him greatly. Worse, he was a powerful man, and it would be entirely possible that Freed's seclusion could lead to something more destructive. It would only take the wrong thing to happen before Freed's emotions contorted into anger, and he use it against his subjects.

It took a little while, but after flying around the walls of the castle, they managed to find a single unblocked door. It was at the back of the castle, and only allowed access to the private garden. The place where Freed and Laxus had met.

When they entered, they saw the state of disrepair was worse inside. Carpets were muddied, dusty and torn, curtains clumped on the floor having fallen form the walls, paintings were either destroyed or removed, light had been eradicated entirely and shards of brick and stone populated the ground. It was a wreck, and the fact that Freed seemed either unaware of it or simply didn't care sent a surge of fear through the demons.

The castle was a reflection of Freed. If he didn't care about the castle, he didn't care about his own wellbeing.

Guided by the light of Bickslow's glowing souls, they quietly navigated the silent castle. They checked Freed's chambers and the study that he preferred, but saw they were both unoccupied and equally as run down as the rest of the building. They then searched more of the rooms Freed could often be found in, before walking towards the throne room. They had hoped they wouldn't need to go there, that Freed would be elsewhere, but all signs pointed that this was where he was.

Freed was never in the throne room for a good reason. It was normally the source of his anger.

When they pushed open the door, they were greeted with the sight of their God. The room itself was more ruined than any other, with streams of light flitting in through the cracks in the walls, hitting Freed in various places. Every decoration was in tatters, burned away or non-existent. The only thing still in its former glory was the throne itself, and that made Evergreen and Bickslow look on in worry. Freed hated that throne, only used it when needed, and yet now it was the only thing he was bothering to keep immaculate.

Why he was doing that they didn't know, but it wasn't going to be for a good reason.

Freed himself looked different too. His face was emotionless, his right hand replaced with an obviously demonic claw, his clothing ripped and in the same state as the castle, and his right eye was pulsating in a dark purple glow.

"You've returned," He commented, looking at his demons enigmatically.

"What the hell happened here?" Bickslow demanded, looking around in almost disbelief.

"Progress," Freed shrugged, not moving from his throne. "I had something of a realisation. Call is an epiphany if you want to romanticise it."

"Okay," Evergreen said slowly, approaching Freed with something akin to caution. Freed raised an eyebrow at that. "And what did you realise."

"That humans brought this upon themselves," Freed said plainly. "They worship these Gods without care for the consequences. They build up their dammed egos to the point where they believe that their Gods can do no wrong, and the Gods believe them right back. They're complicit in their own destruction. They have a hunger for mistreatment, whether they're aware of it or not, and I have granted them their wish. I expect they're thrilled at what they've got."

"Freed, that ain't-" Bickslow began, but Evergreen put a hand on his arm to stop him. They needed the full story before they could help.

"Why did you let the castle get like this?" She asked.

"I didn't see the point in maintaining it," Freed stated, looking at his demons with almost curiosity. "Nobody but me is going to see it, and I don't particularly care for the frivolities of it all. Why waste the effort in making it look respectable if there's nobody to appreciate it?"

"And the moat?" Bickslow prompted.

"There were complaints about the way I was changing things, and people thought it wise to try and change my mind," Freed sighed, in annoyance most likely. "The moat acts as a deterrent. There's no way to approach me, and those who try will have their bodies boiled. It proved quite effective, after the first few attempts were unsuccessfully made."

"And why remove the windows?"

"Predominantly to further keep out anyone who wished to try their luck in speaking with me," Freed glanced at where a window had once been, then back to his demons. "And partly because the light seeping in was a bother. I can see without it; it was simply a functionality for the human's ease. Unneeded now."

The two demons shared a look. They had perhaps expected a blind rage from their God, but this calm, detached nature was a lot more concerning. It was as if all the emotion had been sapped out of him.

"What made you do this Freed?" Evergreen asked, stepping closer again. Bickslow did the same.

"I told you, I came to a greater understanding of the world," Freed shrugged. "Humans are addicted to pain and turmoil. They bring it upon themselves so it makes their short existences seem worthwhile; they force agony on themselves so that they can feel better when they get rid of it. I have been a crutch to them, and they haven't earned my help, so I have removed it from them. I have also removed their influence from me."

While Evergreen looked at their God with concern, Bickslow's eyes widened and he felt a rush of guilt wash over him. He had seen emotions of all type in humans, both repressed and volatile, and he knew what Freed was doing. He was a man of pride and duty, and he wouldn't allow his true feelings to be known to anyone. But it was plain to see that he was lonely.

Bickslow and Evergreen had left him alone when he was struggling. He was more alone than he had ever been, and he had closed himself off.

Perhaps he thought that emotions were the reason he was hurting so much on his own, and was trying to remove their influence from him. Perhaps he just wasn't thinking straight, and his self-inflicted seclusion from the world had led him to make stupid decisions. But it was very clear what was happening; Freed was angry and lonely and didn't know how to deal with it, so was lashing out at the world.

Walking up to Freed, he was met with an inquisitive eyebrow raise and nothing more. Before Freed could stop him, the demon wrapped his arms tightly around the man, pulling him into a tight hug.

Freed went rigid against Bickslow's chest and for a moment he was unmoving.

"I'm sorry we left you," Bickslow stated softly, and his voice quivered. "And I'm sorry you're having to go through all this shit with nobody to understand how hard it is for you. And I'm sorry that people constantly undermine you. I'm sorry we haven't been here for you and I promise we won't do that to you again. But we are here for you, and we love you."

A sob slipped through Freed's lips.

He wrapped his arms tightly around Bickslow, clinging to him as if he might disappear. Bickslow tightened his own grip, and allowed Freed to press his face into his torso for as long as he needed. He was probably crying, and most likely wouldn't end the hug until he stopped. That was fine, he could deal with that.

Evergreen had walked over and was gently stroking Freed's back, and the two demons shared a sympathetic look. They knew now that one of them should have stayed behind to look after him, they knew that Freed wasn't as in control as he liked to think and should have anticipated he might need help.

But like Evergreen had said earlier, they couldn't focus on that.

Eventually Freed did remove himself from the hug, and the dampness around his eyes told Bickslow that he had indeed cried. They didn't comment on anything as Freed rubbed the back of his left hand against his face, cleaning it slightly and making himself look more presentable. The glowing in his right eye diminished now, but the effect of his time alone was still obvious in both the castle and in his demonic right arm.

"I shouldn't need to rely on you," Freed whispered. "And I'm sorry that I do."

"Everyone needs people, Freed," Evergreen said softly. "And the people who think otherwise are the people who start wars and bring cruelty for no reason. You are not one of those people."

"But what I've done over the last-"

"Anything you've done can be fixed, Freed," Bickslow firmly stated, leaving no room for argument. "You're allowed mistakes, more than anyone. People can forgive you and move on, they're good at that."

Freed thought for a moment, before ducking his head in defeat. Evergreen patted his shoulder while Bickslow ruffled the top of his already messy head. Freed chuckled slightly at the action, though his heart was barely in it. The demons wished that they could do more to help their friend, but he could only heal himself. And, unfortunately, part of that healing process would involve the God's lover, something which Freed would soon find out about.

"We found Laxus," Evergreen said after Freed looked up again. The man's head snapped towards her. "And I'm going to need you to promise to keep calm."

"If he okay?" Freed demanded, regret replaced by a small mixture of fear and anger.

"He's alive," Bickslow said calmly, and the lack of affirmation of anything better made Freed tense. "A couple of weeks ago, he was captured by Ivan's forces. They're using him against Makarov, we're not exactly sure how, but they're managed to draw his lightning out of him against his will."

Freed's eyes went hollow as he thought back to what Jackal had said. If captured, they would use Laxus for as long as needed, before killing him.

"Are they hurting him?"

"Yes," Evergreen sighed, placing a hand on Freed in the hope of calming him. "We're not sure, but we think they're using some kind of torture to get him to use his lightning."

"We couldn't save him on our own, he's heavily guarded," Bickslow confessed, looking at the floor with an angered expression. "We did what we could, but we had to leave. We came here immediately because you needed to know. I'm sorry we couldn't save him."

"What exactly are they doing to him?" Freed said, standing up.

"They've got him in chains, and when we were there they were constantly beating him," Evergreen explained softly, watching as Freed moved. "There's these things, they look like crystals, which looked like they were coming from his back and his chest. Every time he was hit, and a spark of lighting came across him, the crystals picked it up and sent it into a metal structure. We think it's a weapon, a lightning canon of some kind."

"They're beating him," Freed echoed quietly. "They're torturing him."

Many things happened next.

The castle seemed to shift around them, stone cracking against stone, shards of glass and rubble lifting from the air and floating towards the walls, ruined tapestries and curtains reforming and returning to their previous places around the room. Light streamed into the room where the windows now reformed. The room was just as it once had been, in its perfected glory, and both demons felt the rumble of movement through the castle that told them the entire building was the same.

Freed himself changed too. Any signs of him being haggard or exhausted were removed, and replaced with perfection. He stood upright, tall, and proud. He was more regal and God-like in that moment than he had ever been.

Two sharp, curved horns twisted out of his head, parting his hair. His eye glowed bright as he looked back to his demons, an expression of barely restrained fury on his face. Air seemed to twist around him and darken, as if magically inclined to support his rage and passion. He was not just a God, at that moment. He was a warrior.

"I will speak to my people," Freed proclaimed, turning on his heal and started to move through his castle.

"And say what?" Evergreen asked, sprouting wings to keep up with him.

"To announce that we will no longer be passive in this war," Freed stated, motioning to the drawbridge which fell with a dramatic shutter, lava sloshing around it. "They have captured the man I love and are using his gifts to slaughter innocent people. His own father is responsible and will show no guilt nor compassion. This war has been happening for years and has twisted those who have been dragged into it. It is a blight on anyone who has seen it yet was born of the whim of two egotists. But it will continue no more."

"What are you gonna do?" Bickslow questioned as Freed walked out of his castle for the first time in months.

"I will bring hell to them," Freed proclaimed. "And anyone who dares try and stop me will do battle with the devil himself."

~~~

The day the doors to the Netherworld opened was the day the war ended. The day Freed ended it.

It was a momentous occasion, one which will forever be recognised in history. The day that the God of Death saw the war for the first time, and decided that he would end it. The day where the dead fought for the living. The day the leading Gods were shown for what they were; weak and uncaring to those below them.

On that day, Freed became a fighter. The horns he grew symbolised that, both as a reflection of the helmets worn by warriors as well as a clear declaration of his strength. The God was a weapon, something dangerous and to be feared. He had no weaknesses, no vulnerabilities. He was something that could not be destroyed by lesser beings, not could be looked down upon. Freed was often assumed to be an incompetent leader of the Netherworld by other Gods, but in that moment he was more devilish than any God could hope to be.

That day, everything Freed did struck fear into the hearts of Gods.

The day the doors to the Netherworld opened was often feared. In prophecy it claimed to be the day the dead rose to overtake the living, angered by their treatment and mortality. Even Gods were taught to fear the opening of hell.

And when it happened, a shiver went through the world.

And even a God as twisted as Ivan Dreyar felt fear.

Levy McGarden; An Examination and Retelling of the Fiorean Gods

~~~

Ivan was a bastard.

Laxus had always thought this, ever since he had realised just how much of his life had been manipulated by his father. The man was a cruel and vindictive person, doing whatever he wanted and hurting anyone he could just to get his own way. The only thing that he had ever thought of was the best way to achieve his own goals, all of which were only designed to increase his power and influence. He had never been a good person.

But now, he was more than just cruel. He was more than just a bastard. He was evil. There was no other term for what he was doing, no other way to describe him.

He had captured Laxus himself. He's set up a diversion, starting a battle on the land and murdering an entire town of humans just for the sake of it. Laxus had taken to the skies to stop the forces, but had apparently left himself open for attack, and Ivan had taken the chance. One of his angels had put Laxus to sleep, and the thunder God had awoken in his father's clutches.

When he had woken up, he was in chains. The room was small and filled with smoke, something of an engine room Laxus guessed. He didn't have time to dwell on that, as when he looked down to see a large, jagged blue crystal had been sewed into his skin. He had panicked instantly, lightning crackling across his skin. It flickered towards the crystal and was absorbed by it, skittering up a large metal column that he was wired up to. It wasn't hard to understand what was happening, this was some way for his father to steal his lighting and use it for whatever he pleased.

Bastard.

Over the next few days, Laxus had been forced to endure a lot. Ivan knew that his lightning was an instinctive thing, and that the easiest way to get it from him was to hurt him. Well, perhaps not the easiest, but Ivan didn't seem to care.

Beatings and threats came thick and fast, the intensity of them depending on how much lightning he needed. For one particularly large fight where the Lighting Dragon – the name he had given the weapon – was needed, Ivan had decided to take a knife to Laxus' face. No doubt a jagged scar would be there when Laxus next saw his reflection.

He tried not to think about it. He tried not to think much about anything that was happening, instead he was just focusing on trying not to show how his father was affecting him.

If nothing else, he would keep his damned dignity.

It was getting harder to do that, though.

Mostly, one of Ivan's angels had been beating Laxus, but Ivan himself sometimes did it. Today was one such day. The old man had rid himself of the metal armour he had constantly been wearing since the start of the war, and was holding something that Laxus had become all too familiar with. A two-pronged weapon that Ivan would have rested against an open flame. It was simple, vicious, and effective. So Ivan either wanted a lot of electricity today, or just wanted to hurt him.

"It really is a shame I have to do this," Ivan commented as he walked forward. "It would have been much easier if you had just followed logic and chosen to fight my side without objection. I wouldn't have had to kill you that way."

Laxus didn't speak. He wouldn't speak.

"Well, perhaps kill isn't the correct term," Ivan continued, gently running the sharp tool against Laxus' torso. "Because if I killed you, you'd go into the arms of that little harlot of yours. Rather, I'll force you into something akin to death."

Gritting his teeth, Laxus glared at his father. He didn't know how the man knew about his relationship with Freed, but it was now one of Ivan's favourite ways to torment him.

"I've a few ways in which I could do that," Ivan mused aloud. "There's burying you alive, of course. Drowning you then resuscitating you only to drown you again. I could do some experimentation on the ways in which a God can replenish their body after grievous injury. Or I could just keep you here and make an example out of you in case anybody had any thoughts about trying to usurp me. The possibilities are endless."

"Fuck yourself," Laxus growled, voice hoarse from lack of water.

"Oh, you're speaking today are you?" Ivan asked almost conversationally, pushing the prong against Laxus' new face scar. "What's got you so chatty?"

"You won't win," Laxus grunted.

"Oh I think that I will," Ivan chuckled, pushing the device further against Laxus' injury. "In fact, I think I'll win rather soon. My father is far too reliant on those angels of his. But I think by the end of the week, they'll be here with you. Think of it as a present, some company for you."

"He'll stop you."

"No. No I don't think he will," Ivan chuckled. "He's struggling already. It's why he hasn't tried to save you yet. Did you know that? There's not even been an attempt. Not even a single angel has been sent for you. Not one."

Laxus growled, and lightning flickered across his skin. The crystals hummed as they absorbed it, and Laxus winced at the fizzing sensation that he was forced to endure. Ivan laughed at the reaction, pushing the hot poker further against his sensitive skin. Laxus grit his teeth and did what he could to force back the shout of pain that was trying to fight its way out of him. His entire body was tensed up, but his father clearly saw the pain Laxus was in. He was almost revelling in it.

The sessions could last days. And with the sadistic glee that the man seemed to be taking in his pain told Laxus that today would be such a session.

He had a plethora of devices that he took delight in using. He had brought them all with him and looked through them, settling on one and raising it up.

Throughout his weeks in his father's clutches, Laxus had done whatever he could to distract himself from his pain. He focused on happier memories; those of his grandfather before he had started his war. His time in the underworld, laughing and relaxing with the Raijinshuu and his lover. It didn't stop Ivan's torture from hurting any more, but at least it was something of a distraction, as well as a comfort.

Even thinking about Freed was calming. Laxus could picture him perfectly. His sharp features, his long silky hair, his strong arms, his beautiful laughter, his ardent passion. Everything about him was perfect, and Laxus missed seeing him so damn much.

They should have spoken after Laxus had left for the war.

He might never see him again.

Shutting his eyes, he tried to let memories of his lover overtake him. The first time they had seen each other, in Freed's garden, where they had spoken about the difficulties of being a God that nobody seemed to talk about. The meals they shared together, where Freed was slowly introducing Laxus to more of the human's culture. Just lying in bed with him, side by side while relishing in the man's beauty. His everything.

He had such an overwhelming presence. When he walked into a room, Laxus could feel him there. Freed had once said that Laxus had an aura to him; something about humidity and a chill. Laxus thought Freed had one too; a level of coolness, like the feeling of running your hand through moss. There was also a smell of damp stone, which was slight and barely noticeable to anyone but Laxus.

It was almost like he could feel it now.

Then, after a moment, he realised he could feel it.

He opened his eyes to see that Ivan had stopped his torment, and was looking around with confusion. Laxus suddenly felt a familiar feeling of comfort overtaking him. The feeling he got whenever he had entered the Netherworld. It was like he was there, with Freed beside him. With his moss like coolness and his stone scent. It was as if the Netherworld was bleeding into the world of the land of the living.

Then, Laxus realised what was happening.

He couldn't help it. He laughed.

"What?" Ivan snapped, glaring at his bound son. "What is this?"

"You can feel it too," Laxus laughed again. "You wanna know what it is, huh? I don't think you'll like the answer."

"Tell me!" Ivan shouted, backhanding Laxus. The blonde kept laughing despite the hit.

"Guess you wouldn't recognise it, since you've not been down there. But that's what I feel like whenever I go down to the underworld," Laxus laughed at the look of panic that flicked onto Ivan's face. "And if we can both feel it all the way out here, I think you can guess what's happening."

"No," Ivan growled.

"The devil's coming out to claim the world," Laxus quoted from one of many prophesies about the Netherworld opening its doors. "I wonder how happy he'll be when he finds out what you've been doing to me."

Laxus continued laughing while Ivan slowly looked towards him, before flicking on his heel and walking out of Laxus' chamber. Laxus allowed his limbs to fall limp in his bounds, closing his eyes and allowing the sensation of Freed to overtake him. Even in the situation, with the residual pain from Ivan's attacks, this was the most comfortable he had felt in months.

Freed was coming. And, at least for Laxus, that meant hope.

~~~

Often, this is where people being telling the story of how the war ends.

The gates to the Netherworld open, the God of Darkness walks out of his domain and lays judgment on those who have caused slaughter. The suffering ends and the war is finished. In the retelling of the God's of Fiore, this is one of the most famous and important moments of history. This is reflected in poems, songs, artwork, and stories told about it.

Again, the 'Knight of Judgement' reflects this.

The dagger laden with an all-seeing eye is a reflection of the strength that he showed in these moments. It is often referred to as the Blade of Judgement. Both the way Freed saw the injustices in the world, and how he punished them. It encapsulates how, in that moment, he was both Judge, Jury and Executioner.

A role which ended the war and gifted him the title 'God of Judgement'.

Levy McGarden; An Examination and Retelling of the Fiorean Gods

~~~

The opening of the Netherworld was near apocalyptic.

From the depths of the ocean walked forward an endless army of corpses. They were all unkillable, without fear nor regret, and brandishing weapons that could kill angels and humans alike. Above them floated their souls, warping and swirling through the air as dark purple fire. The fire of a soul cannot touch a living creature, and thus acted further as weapons against the oncoming fight.

Waves sloshed and churned as the water was toyed with, the armada of bodies waling atop the surface. The boats of the already fighting fleets were taken on the whim of the seas, losing all control, and becoming useless. They creaked and moaned in protest, but the sound fell to nothing.

Instead, there was silence.

The shadow of the God of Death loomed over the entire battlefield. His size was monolithic, and he looked down upon the living with an expression of calm, quelling rage. He towered over both men and mountains alike, and the ferocious wind of battle hit him and flung back the endless green hair that seemed to merge with the cloak he wore. It plastered against the surface of the sea, and the Death God slowly walked forward, creating waves of tidal size with each movement.

The waves gained a purple sheen to them, both by the shade of the God and the aura he exuded. The sensation of death and the Netherworld was slowly tainting the land of the living.

In that moment, eclipsed by the sun behind him and looking on the living with a sneer, he was more of a God than he had ever been. And it seemed everyone who saw him wouldn't dare deny the fact, as they looked upon the man with fear.

With every step, the fighting stopped.

The Death God looked at the congregation before him. At Gods and angels and humans fighting a war that should have never happened. How they had been twisted by pointless agendas and how many of them had been turned to savages. How once good people now saw the removal of life as an everyday occurrence, or even pleasure, rather than the travesty that it was.

Life ending should not be seen as a possibility. It should not be seen as something required for the future. It should be seen as something that only nature and time should control. These Gods had removed fate's hand in death, and for that they must be punished.

"Stand before me, Gods," The Death God demanded, voice echoing through the ocean.

He waited a moment. Nobody came, it felt like nobody moved.

Lifting his hand, the Death God allowed swirls of magic to form around him. Runic lettering fluttered through the air, a language of the Gods often thought to be lost or dead, at his control. They shot off in two directions, hunting down the Gods responsible for the war. A moment later they returned to him, this time carrying two men in their grasps, who struggled against them. The bounds were tight around the ruling Gods, and the Death God looked to them with indignation.

The last time he had seen them in person was when he had stormed form their meeting. He had forgotten just how human they looked. How pathetic they looked. But they had caused such destruction and heartbreak, and all for nothing.

They were ants compared to him.

"Look upon your creation," Freed demanded, making a gesture which turned the two men around.

They were forced to look over the battlefield that they had made. A battlefield Freed had no doubt that neither man had stepped onto themselves. They saw the hordes of corpses Freed had at his disposal, the ocean of souls that had been ripped from their bodies because of the whims of the two men, the angels and Gods that would soon be dead as well, the blood that had stained both the hands of the fighters and the water itself.

"Do you deem your actions good?" He asked, voice loud enough for everyone fighting to hear.

"Not damn near enough," Ivan snarled struggling against the runes keeping him in place.

With a quick hand gesture, Ivan was flung forward. He was tiny in comparison to the Death God, and struggled under the intense gaze of the man who controlled him. He sent a defiant glare to the other man, who looked at him without pity nor fear. He showed no emotion at all.

"Repeat yourself," The Death God demanded.

"I said it ain't near enough," Ivan growled, and the runes tightened around him slightly. "This world needs to change, or it'll die, and I'm the man who's going to change it. And no corpse fucking Demi-God is going to stop me."

"Still with the same insult. You're a tiresome man, Ivan Dreyar," The Death God chuckled, but his face showed no humour.

"I will slaughter you like I have anyone who has gotten in my way," Ivan spat, wincing as the runic bounds got tighter still.

"Like you would your own son?" Makarov spoke up, voice gravely and a growl. "You're disgusting."

"You raised a deviant, old man," Ivan growled to his father. "How you can be proud of him is astonishing to me. You should have killed him at birth, for all the good he's done to either of us. I am proud I have done what is required of me, and once this imposition is dealt with I will finish my work and end his disrespect."

With closed eyes, the Death God sent another flurry of runes to find Laxus. It might take longer, Ivan no doubt kept him hidden, but they would find him.

"He is the only good thing you've done," Makarov continued. "And when I found out whatever you've done to him you will be beaten for each scratch you're responsible for; you can be sure of that."

"It's a shame that you will not live to see that opportunity," Ivan retorted.

"Silence!" The Death God yelled. "You are both unimportant, inconsequential in this war from this point on. Neither of you will make an order, demand, or bring further death. You are both to be silent. Unless you wish to fight me, your war is over."

"You couldn't begin to fight me," Ivan spat, looking to the Death God again.

"Yes, I could," The God snarled back, and Ivan flinched at the sudden emotion. "You, Ivan Dreyar, are nothing but a bug that I could crush beneath me. I have an infinite army of souls and corpses, all rotten by your manipulation. They feel rage and anger towards you that is unrivalled, and that fury will drive them to be more vicious and cruel than your most twisted of dreams.

"My soldiers are unkillable, and immovable. They cannot be reasons with nor can they be stopped. And with every life my soldiers take, we recruit another. And endless spiral of people who can and will put an end to your power, Mr Dreyar."

As the Death God spoke, the bounds around both Makarov and Ivan got tighter. The latter seemed to struggle with breathing now.

"I am more a God than you could ever wish to be, and I will do whatever is needed to end your tyranny on this land," The death God growled, lowing his gaze on the man with sadistic calm. "So help me I will bring rule on it myself if that is what's required of me."

And it would be easy, oh so easy to do it.

He could shape the world in his image, remove those who would cause harm and destruction onto it in the same way that Ivan had to him. He would remove the judgement and prejudices that had plagued his own life, and preach better ideals to his subjects. He could be both the king of the Netherworld and the living.

A flutter of runes suddenly appeared before him, and there stood Laxus.

The God was naked, revealing the extent of his injuries. Scars and bruises and cuts and burns populated his skin where previously there had been none. Marks that connoted restraints were still visible around his arms and legs, and his exhaustion told the Death God that Laxus had not slept nor rested since his capture. He looked more vulnerable than he had ever been, and something inside the God of Death's heart broke at the sight.

He couldn't be the ruler of the living.

Because wanting that might twist him into someone who could hurt another in the way Ivan had hurt Laxus.

All he could be was himself.

Freed made a motion with his hand, his body twisting to its normal size as he stepped through the air. He brought Laxus into his arms and grasped him tight, the two Gods holding one another as if their lives depended on it. They buried their faces into the other's neck, not speaking nor sobbing. But they both felt a rush of exhaustion, relief, and joy flood through them as they were brought together again.

Laxus shook in his arms slightly, and Freed made a quiet promise to him that he would do whatever he could to help the God. Laxus nodded into Freed's neck and pressed his lips against it, feeling a sense of safety that he hadn't in months. A sense of home.

"Fucking disgusting," Ivan rasped.

Pulling away, Freed removed his cloak and wrapped it around Laxus, who took in the warmth of the clothing readily. Freed looked towards the two elder Dreyar's with anger on his face again. Ivan had a sneer which he was trying to maintain despite losing his breath, and Makarov was looking at the display between Laxus and Freed with an expression of confusion and disbelief. Freed ignored it as best he could as he walked towards the two bound men.

"Ivan Dreyar," He began, walking to the struggling man first. Ivan stared directly at him in some ridiculous display of ego. "You are made of cruelty and nothing more. Your actions are done without repent nor regret. Your goals are selfish and the way you attempt to realise them are evil. You have shown no guilt nor understanding of what you have done. What do you say to this?"

"Fuck you," Ivan grunted, the bounds getting tighter and tighter.

"Very well," Freed sighed, raising his left hand. "You cannot be changed. You cannot be fixed. You cannot be trusted. Therefore, you will be killed."

"You can't kill a God," Ivan laughed, and Freed shook his head.

"No. You can't kill a God," He took a step forward. "I can."

The runes around the God started to glow, burning into him. They spiralled around him, their lettering blurring into purple bands that tore into his skin. The sound of their humming could only do so much as to mute out his screaming as his flesh was torn open and scolded. The process was soon covered by a blurring purple halo of runes, which died away a moment later and left Ivan's body desecrated, cut apart and scolding. His soul started to rise from his body, but Freed ripped it open with a flick of his wrist, dismissing it entirely. He would get no afterlife, nor did he deserve one.

Freed turned slowly towards Makarov, who was looking on the body of his son with a look more disappointed than grieving. He looked towards Freed and his expression seemed to be one of acceptance. At least he had some morality left.

"Makarov Dreyar," Freed continued. "In this war, you chose to fight for the freedom of the people you govern. But by doing so, you forgot the value of life. It became unimportant, and people just tools for your victory. Furthermore, you dragged other Gods into this fight and infected them with your violent mindset. You were both complicit and responsible for the deaths of many, and you will be punished accordingly."

"I understand," Makarov hung his head.

"Wait," Laxus said, voice slightly hoarse. "You don't need t'–"

"Let me finish," Freed put a gentle hand up to quell his lover, still looking at Makarov. "This world needs a ruler, and you were once a good one. Throughout the war you have been changed from who you once were, and you need to become that man again. You must relearn the value of a human life, and how important kindness and respect are. Furthermore, you must learn that you are not above the humans, rather their servant and protector. Do you agree?"

"I do."

"Then your punishment will be this," Freed continued. "You will walk this land, and see every inch of it. You will see every human that walks upon it. You will see heartbreak and joy and birth and death and understand it as every human does. No living creature will see you, and you will walk alone. You will use this time to reflect on your actions, and how better you will serve these people. Once you have seen every corner of the land, we will meet again, and I will determine if you're ready to rule. In the time before that happens, your grandson will take the place as Leader of the Gods temporarily, and I will act as his advisor."

Makarov nodded with his head bowed. He seemed to understand that this was a kindness. A mercy. Nothing more.

"Before you leave, I'm sure that your grandson will wish to speak with you. Take the opportunity while you still have it."

He released the runes that were holding Makarov in place, and the two Dreyar's walked through the air and towards one another. Freed watched as they pulled each other into their arms and hugged, Makarov whispering what Freed could only assume was an apology. Laxus seemed to have forgiven him, so long as he accepted what Freed was suggesting was the right thing to do. When Makarov assured him that he would come back a better man, Freed felt a sense of relief. He had mainly offered Makarov the chance at redemption for Laxus' sake.

After the two men had said their goodbyes, Freed made a gesture with his hand and the older God was swirled in runes, taken somewhere on the land that hadn't been completely destroyed by the war, so his punishment could begin.

Laxus and Freed walked towards each other, and rested their foreheads together. They stood in silence for a moment, relishing in each other's presence in such a way that they hadn't been able to do for months. To be together again, in one another's arms, was such a strong relief neither had expected, but both needed so damn much. Neither man was willing to let go, and Freed slowly leant up and pressed his lips against Laxus', uncaring of who saw it.

Kissing his lover was euphoria.

Evergreen and Bickslow, who had watched Freed's proclamations from the side-lines, slowly flew towards both men. When they broke their kiss and pulled the other close, both demons were dragged into the embrace with them. Freed felt tears prickle at his eyes because of it.

The three people he loved more than anything were here with him again. At his side.

"I love you all," He whispered into someone's head. "So much."

They stayed in each other's arms for a time, before eventually pulling apart and looking at the battlefield before them. The fighting had stopped – it felt like the world itself had stopped – and everyone was looking at them. Looking at Freed in particular.

He took a step forward from his loved ones, and made the proclamation to everyone involved in the fight.

The war, finally, was over.

~~~

It was in those moments that Freed gained the title of the God of Judgment. Where he looked at the actions of the two Gods and sentenced them for their crimes. He looked into their souls and saw darkness in one, and potential for good in the other. He used this judgment to change the course of history for the better, and for that the world should be thankful.

His judgment did not end there. In the ensuing days he had every major fighter of the war take council with him, from both sides of the fight. He judged them both on their ability to be good and the possibility for reformation. He devised punishments suited for them all.

Thus, he became the God of Judgement. This is reflected in the 'Knight of Judgment' art piece by the reflection of the scales of justice. The two skulls represent the value someone puts on a life, something pivotal for Freed's own judgment.

This is where some might end the story.

However, this is not an appropriate stopping point for the life of Freed Justine. As established, his actions were heavily influenced by those he loved. It is, in my view, important to explore how these relationships evolved and changed after he had ended the war. Thus, the story continues and ends more happier than some historians may tell you.

Levy McGarden; An Examination and Retelling of the Fiorean Gods

~~~

"At last, you're here!"

At Evergreen's exclamation, Freed chuckled. He walked into the garden of his castle, where a small table had been set up on the patio beside the pond. Both of his demons were already sitting there, and most likely had been waiting for a little while for both him and his lover to leave the castle to meet with them.

They did this once a week. They put aside an afternoon to meet up, talk, and share a drink.

Freed had been the one to suggest it. His time alone in the castle had made him realise a lot of things, and one was just how important his loved ones were. His castle was large, and felt larger when he was alone. He had relied on their support more often that he would have previously admitted, and wanted to treat them better than he had in the past. This was his solution.

There were rules for the meetings. No talking about their various duties. They couldn't bring a bad attitude with them. They had to try something new from human culture each time.

The reason both Freed and Laxus were late was, as the God's in charge of a post-war earth, they always had a lot of work to do. Today was no exception; they had spoken to two of Makarov's high-ranking angels about what they had done during the war and what they should do next to become better. It had taken longer than they had expected, but thankfully for no other reason than one of the angel's had arrived late. Laxus and Freed had done their job and walked from the throne room to the garden quickly, side by side.

"Apologies for the lateness," Freed spoke. "Apparently timekeeping isn't something Mr Fullbuster excels at."

"You know the rules. No work talk," Bickslow chastised, though he grinned.

"Yeah Freed," Laxus chuckled into Freed's ear. "You know the rules."

Freed shook his head, half tempted to point out their short walk to the patio had been dominated by Laxus muttering about the angel in question not arriving on time. Instead, he took his seat close to the pond and absent flicked his eyes over the table. It had been Bickslow's job to decide what part of living culture they would be exploring today, and he usually went for something that could be eaten. Today was no different.

Seemingly picking up on Freed curiosity, Bickslow handed him an empty glass and plate. He poured fresh lemonade into the glass from a pitcher, and then cut a slice of chocolate cake and placed it on the plate. Freed quirked an eyebrow at the cake.

"We're meant to try something new, with the intention of expanding our knowledge of their culture," Freed commented. "The last three times you've been in charge, we've had cake."

"Different recipes," Bickslow grinned. "And if you say it doesn't count, then you're disregarding the time and effort put into this recipe in particular. Which is a real dick mood if you ask me."

"You really are intolerable sometimes, aren't you," Freed chuckled, shaking his head.

After that, they fell into the normal routine of these meetings. They talked, joked, teased fun at each other and enjoyed an afternoon without responsibility. It was a welcome break for them all, and each of them were glad when Freed had proposed they do it. Particularly Evergreen and Bickslow, who had been taking on the slack that Freed's occasional absences had left in the Netherworld.

Although there was no setting sun in Freed's realm, it was clear that the evening was turning to night by the gradual quieting of the world outside the castle. People were returning to their homes to sleep, as their bodies demanded.

Returning the netherworld to its old state had been a large undertaking after the war had ended. First, Freed had been forced to merge the souls back together with their bodies after they had been split for his army, which had taken weeks of literal endless work. Then he had to get back to bringing the culture of the Netherworld to its lively state. The first thing he had done was to make a general apology to everyone for his angered and dismissive behaviour as of late. He then made personal apologies to those in particular he had wronged.

He did so reluctantly to the woman who complained about her neighbour stealing her food.

It was slow and somewhat arduous, but it was working. Slowly he was regaining their respect and improving the Netherworld from what it had once been. There were now more decorations lining the streets, as well as more placed to gather and be social. The open-air marketplace and cafés were particularly popular, and had been very helpful in making the Netherworld feel more human. They had been Laxus' idea.

"Okay," Laxus said, stretching his arms as he stood up. "It's getting late, and we all know that if we don't leave soon Bix'll start teasing Ever about the big guy she likes, and I don't wanna pull them apart again. So I think I'm gonna call it a night."

"I do not like him," Evergreen exclaimed.

"And teasing her about him is my favourite part of the evening!" Bickslow whined.

"Well, perhaps we'll allow you to do it when you don't decide to get us a chocolate cake for us to eat again," Freed said with a smirk, and Bickslow pouted at him. "I think I might be done for the night too."

The Death God stood up also, and moved beside Laxus. The Thunder God grinned and wrapped an arm around his lover, giving a curt wave to Freed's demons after they bid the two Gods farewell. Freed also wished them both a pleasant night as a pure white cloud appeared above the perfect garden, a stream of lighting slamming down and hitting them both, absorbing them inside of it and transporting them to Laxus' own home.

A moment later, they walked through to Laxus' bedroom. The entire place was open and airy, modelled after the architecture of the buildings from the Greek islands. It was a pleasant place, and Freed wouldn't deny he enjoyed the view from above the clouds.

Glancing down, Freed's eyes landed on a large map of the earth placed upon a plinth. It was partly coloured black, signifying where Makarov had walked as part of his punishment. He was making his way across the land, slowly but certainly. When he caught him looking at it, Laxus wrapped an arm around Freed's waist from behind.

"How long d'you think it'll take?" The Thunder God asked.

"About a year, at this rate," Freed said, turning in Laxus' arms and resting against his lover. "Do you miss him?"

"A bit, but he's gonna be better for doing it," Laxus shrugged.

"I hope so," Freed smiled, leaning up and placing his lips against Laxus' in a chaste kiss.

Both smiling with expressions bordering on lovesick, they pulled apart, slid out of their outfits, and climbed into the sun-warmed sheets of Laxus' bed. Laxus pulled Freed into his arms softly, pressing their lips together in another soft kiss before they both closed their eyes. Freed shifted closer to him, letting out a quiet yawn and allowed sleep to overtake him.

And, in the arms of his lover, filled with the warm love of his friends, the God of Death and Judgement found rest.

Again, the amazing artwork in this was made by @fairiesherefairiesthere​ and you should reblog it and show them so much love.

#fairy tail reverse bang #Ftrbb2020 #fraxus #freed justine #Laxus Dreyar #Bickslow #evergreen #freed x laxus #fanfic #fairy tail #writing #one shot #gods and goddesses #fariesherefariesthere #art #event #Morally questionable actions #descriptions of torture #happy ending

[fairysenshi]

My Top 10 Favorite Anime ships

(Canon and Non)

1. Gajeel Redfox and Levy McGarden

My love for them knows no boundaries and Fairy Tail really did do their character growth justice. I MEAN Gajeels happiness is literally Levy! The speech he gave as he was basically dying said everything about his love for her and how he has become a better man because of it!

2. Usagi Tsukino and Mamoru Chiba

From the first anime I ever watched. I have loved this pairing ever since my 5 year old eyes laid its sight on them. They are such a supportive and loving couple that were literally destined in two lifetimes to be together. Usagi may be a whiney cry baby, but Mamoru wouldn’t have her any other way.

3. Edward Elric and Winry Rockbell

Constantly rewatching FMAB for these two. Winry is absolutely perfect for Ed because she keeps both him and Al grounded. Their childhood bond has transformed into this mutual relationship of love, respect, and worrying over one another. I love that they aid eachother on their separate journey’s with zero questions asked. They truly are meant to be.

4. Haruhi Suzumiya and Kyon

This one isn’t necessarily cannon, but I ship it all the same. Kyon was the first person to really try and get to know Haruhi. Even though other’s see her as a psychotic nutball, he sticks with her through all the SOS Brigade antics. They have a totally unique dynamic that is so fantastic to watch in each episode.

5. Mai Taniyama and Kazuya Shibuya (aka Naru)

From the series Ghost Hunt. This series isn’t popular or even well known. Mai and Naru’s relationship starts with Mai giving him the nickname Naru due to his narcissistic nature. Throughout the series you can see how their interactions impact eachothers behavior. No one is treated like how Naru treats Mai. There is a form of compassion in the little things he does. THE COIN SCENE. If ya know ya know: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J02scUHpyX8

6. Eijirou Kirishima and Katsuki Bakugo

Hear me out. I know that these two are shipped with a lot of different people and are in NO WAY confirmed canon in Kiribaku. But for some reason I love their friendship so much that I could eventually see them dating. Bakugo doesn’t treat Kirishima with the same off-handedness he does everyone else. Especially after the Kamino incident he paid Kirishima back for those expensive nightvision goggles he bought. Midoriya even said that Kirishima had built up a relationship with him that no one else there had. I truly would enjoy the idea of them being a couple, but I won’t hate on any ship that may become canon in the future because both of them deserve love.

7. Tohru Honda and Kyo Sohma

Kyo Sohma is such an amazing character and I freaking love their love with all of my heart. He is so protective over her and she is the same with him. The way he gets flustered around her is so darn cute. How he cares for her when she’s sick and ESPECIALLY after the true form incident just solidified their feelings towards eachother. Not necessarily that they were in love, but there was a mutual  fondness that only seems to be growing. I will protect them with all of my heart and soul.

8. Daisuke Niwa and Riku Harada

Another anime that doesn’t get talked about as frequently- DN Angel. This is such a cute anime. Daisuke is originally in love with Riku’s twin sister, but it soon fades as he starts spending more time with Riku. Her tough exterior mixed with his shy and awkward one is sooo funny and I just can’t get enough.

9. Shizuo Heiwajima and Izaya Orihara

Don’t get me wrong, just by the GIF above this relationship is totally twisted. But my absolute favorite character is Shizuo and for some reason their sheer hatred switched to sexual tension in my mind and I can totally get behind the idea of these two crazies together. While I LOVE Celty and Shinra. There is just something about these two that get me going (in a non-sexual way).

10. Korra and Asami Sato

Korra and Asami are so fantastic and their love story is unique. First off, they DATED THE SAME GUY. At the end of the series they take a vacation to the spirit world together and give into their feelings, both understanding that the situation they had infront of them took president and that they would get to their feelings eventually. When they return from their vacation, they had become offical and shared their first kiss. Breaking it to Mako (their ex boyfriend) was such a touching scene and even better when he is supportive.

#gajeel and levy #fairy tail #usagi and mamoru #Sailor moon #Ed and winry #fullmetal alchemsit brotherhood #Haruhi and kyon #The melancholy of haruhi suzumiya #mai and naru #Ghost Hunt #Kirishima and Bakugo #my hero academia #Tohru and kyo #Fruits Basket #Daisuke and Riku #DN Angel #Shizuo and Izaya #Durarara #Korra and Asami #Legend of Korra #gajevy #edwinry #kiribaku #Kyoru #shiziya #korsami #anime #anime top 10 couples

[gruviafan-forever]

HIS QUEEN

PART:- I

A/N: Main pairing Gruvia and Nalu. Minor pairing Jerza and Gale.

In a far away land, there was a kingdom of Ice ruled by the Fullbusters for generations, currently being ruled by King Silver Fullbuster and his queen Mika Fullbuster.

Kingdom of Ice were neighbours to the Kingdom of Celestial which was ruled by the Heartfilias for generations, currently ruled by King Jude and his queen Layla Heartfilia.

Another neighbour was the Kingdom of Scarlet Blossom which was ruled by the Belserions for generations, ruled by their widowed Queen Irene Belserion.

These three kingdoms were allies and the rulers shared a great bond amongst themselves, both with respect to their business and political endeavors and personally, all three of them were good friends whom they have known from childhood.

These three kingdoms are forces to be reckoned with as they were prosperous and had an army of strong men and strategists who would predict the outcome of war which was always positive to them.

And that's why, other kingdoms feared this ally and would usually avoid war against them.

It had been 20 years since the current rulers ascended the throne. But now time has come to make way for future rulers to take charge.

"So Lucy, Was uncle finally convinced?" Erza Fernandez, daughter of Queen Irene Belserion who is to married the commander general of her mother's army, Jellal Fernandez with the blessing of her mother, asked the Heartfilia princess.

"Papa is almost convinced that Natsu would make a good husband and future king. I'm really grateful to Gray and Juvia if it weren't for them this wouldn't have been possible."

Lucy smiled genuinely and fondly remembered Juvia's words from two years ago.

"Lucy-san, I will wait till yours and Natsu-San's love issues get sorted out until then let Gray-sama continue being your fiance."

"Yeah! I'm sure both of them would be happy to hear this good news. Come let's go to Kingdom of Ice to share this news to your Natsu and Gray." Erza exclaimed happily.

"What? You are coming with us?" Levy Redfox, Lucy's personal maid and her best friend asked the Belserion princess. 

"Yes!! It's been a while since I saw them especially…" Erza stopped as soon as her mother entered the guest room.

"Good Afternoon, your highness" Levy bowed down in respect. 

"Hello Aunty" Lucy stood up and bowed down.

"Hello mother, is something the matter?" Erza asked.

"Good afternoon girls, did I interrupt your talks. Oh anyways!! Lucy dear, congratulations finally your dad has agreed for your marriage with that pinky boy.

And you know what, just now, I received his call and he informed me of this happy news. So as soon as your return to your kingdom, wedding preparations will commence. Congratulations dear."

Irene hugged Lucy and patted her back.

"I can't believe papa agreed wholeheartedly. When I left our palace two days back, he said he would think about it but he didn't give consent yet but I knew he would eventually. But I never thought this would happen this soon." Lucy said with a smile which she couldn't contain.

"He and Layla wanted to surprise you, that's why they didn't tell you when you left. Okay girls, enjoy your stay and once again, congratulations Lucy dear." Irene added and left the guest room.

The girls squealed in delight and had their group hug.

"Finally, ten years of a struggling love life has come to a happy end. Now, Lucy will become Lucy Dragneel." Levy exclaimed and congratulated her friends.

Lucy, Erza and Gray were childhood friends who did their schooling together in Kingdom of Celestial  in their prestigious academy "Fairy Tail" which was run by a wise old man, Makarov Dreyar who taught them every lesson pertaining to changing life and kingdom. 

He mainly taught them about family and it doesn't require blood to form bonds with someone. And everyone should be treated equally.

Even though, Jude and Irene dismissed that kind of knowledge and thoughts and were ready to stop the schooling.

It was Silver and Mika who convinced their friends and said that the old man was doing a perfect job of raising the future rulers in the correct path which the others reluctantly agreed to at the end.

Fairy Tail academy is the place where everyone students were seen in the same light. That academy is the place where Lucy met Levy McGarden, Gajeel Redfox and Jellal Fernandez and also Natsu for the first time.

Jellal, Levy, Gajeel and Natsu Dragneel, were the orphan residents of Celestial Kingdom. Natsu's personality was something Lucy hadn't ever come across.

He was always hyper, excited, funny and a very friendly person. He quickly gelled up with her group except Gray, as their personality was totally opposite. 

But with the course of time, even they became best of friends. Natsu shared a sisterly bond with Erza which even she felt the same.

But the bond he shared with Lucy was totally different, from best friends they became lovers.

At age of 17, Natsu confessed his feelings which he had bottled up since he first met Lucy and to his surprise, even Lucy felt the same and accepted his love wholeheartedly.

Since then, they have remained together and were ready to face any struggle in their path until they had King Jude and Queen Layla's approval.

But what came as a struggle in their path was a wedding proposal sent to Lucy's dad from Kingdom of Ice from Gray's father which the former agreed and wanted it to happen as soon as their children graduated from the academy.

When Lucy confronted Gray along with Natsu and other friends, all Gray said was he wasn't aware of this arrangement nor was he informed about this prior.

"See Lucy, I'm not heartless to snatch you away from Natsu. I know how much you guys love each other. Natsu, don't you remember how I encouraged you to confess your feelings to Lucy and don't feel that damn inferiority complex. Now you both are accusing me?"

Lucy still remembered how their accusations had hurt Gray which led him to not talk to any of them for a week.

But after a week, when Lucy and Natsu  apologised to him which he accepted and finally revealed a thing which he had been hiding for a long time,

"I'm in love with someone which I can't disclose now. But don't worry Lucy, I will call off this wedding. We still have a year left before we graduate. So be cool and I support you both."

"Lucy…..Lucy…." Levy was shaking her best friend. That's when Lucy regained her composure and smiled sheepishly at them.

"Don't go drifting away in your dreams. Now you have a huge responsibility of apologising to Gray's parents officially. I'm sure uncle must have informed them already about the wedding getting called off. But I think you should personally go and meet them. What do you say?" Erza asked as she poured the tea into her cup.

"Even I feel the same. Tomorrow morning let's leave to the Kingdom of Ice." Lucy added.

MEANWHILE 

"So these six years of engagement comes to an unsatisfactory ditch, huh!! That's what you are trying to say Jude." Silver sounded harshly.

"Honey, please cool down. Don't sound this harsh to our friend." Mika tried to console her husband.

"Okay! Fine, now at least you tried to inform me that's cool. Don't worry, I'm not angry at Lucy-chan for not marrying my son.

I see her as my daughter and at the end of the day, it's her decision as she's the one who's going to lead that life.   

    Fine!! Don't worry we will surely come for the ceremony and if you know any alliance for my son, do inform me. He's soon going to 24 and still unmarried by this age, I already had him. Okay bye." Silver kept the lacrima away and sighed.

"Honey!! I don't think we need to search for another alliance. I feel Gray is already seeing someone but I don't know who it is." Mika said as she sat next to her husband.

"Who could be that? I should have listened to him when he said at first that he was not interested in marrying Lucy-chan. 

     But I believed that he was okay with it as he agreed to marry her afterwards.

But should have known that wasn't the thing when he made trivial excuses to postpone the wedding.

Now look, he's the one now who is in the losing end. Whoever that girl is, I'm ready to get him married off if he wholeheartedly loves her." Silver said as he hugged his wife to make himself feel at ease.

"What if she's an ordinary person, someone without any background as such?" Mika questioned him.

"I don't believe in this high status crap. I'm not telling this because of Lucy-chan. The reason I felt she would be a good bride for Gray is because we have known her since her birth.

But Gray nor Lucy-chan felt that for one another. Now that's why, she chose Natsu who makes her happy and smiles in the way she wants. 

    If even our Gray has someone like that I will also choose the same path which Jude and Layla has chosen for their daughter. Dear, go speak to him and know the answer. And before that send those letters to the mail guard." Silver pointed at the table.

After breaking from the hug, Mika went near the table and took the letters. She checked them and took one out of it.

"We wrote letters to her every month for the past one and half years but she didn't even bother to write us back. Is she alright? Did we make a mistake by sending her to Bosco on her accord?" Mika asked out of concern.

Silver could clearly see worries wash over her face. "I'm sure Juvia-chan's alright. Because my heart says so. Don't worry, I have a hunch that we might meet her soon."

Gray, who was passing by his parent's bedroom, had heard all the things the couple had spoken about.

Once he reached his room where he saw Natsu Dragneel, his main bodyguard laying around eating a packet of chips. Gray groaned and scolded him, "Idiot, what are you doing littering my bed?"

"Ice-princess!! Why are you shouting? Geez, I was just eating chips."

Natsu yelled back and now both had their head smacked against each other and began to brawl by pulling each other's hairs.

Even if Gray was practically Natsu's boss, both were being friendly because they considered each other as their best friend.

It was Gray's idea to appoint Natsu as his main bodyguard after graduation so that Natsu could learn the life of royalty and prepare for his future life.

"Flame-brain, you could have told me that your wedding got fixed." Gray said and gave him another punch.

"Wow!! Wait who told you that? Luce told me yesterday that her dad has almost agreed but not yet still. But now you are saying something different. Is it true?" Natsu asked out of surprise which eyes sparkling and a big goofy smile on his face.

Seeing him Gray smiled and nodded in agreement, "Yes, your soon-to-be father-in -law has agreed. Looks like Lucy will inform you soon now." He smirked.

Natsu looked at Gray and hugged him which startled the former, "Thank you Gray. If it weren't for yours and Juvia's help, it wouldn't have been possible. Thanks man. Me and Luce are really grateful for your help. And sorry because of us you couldn't be with your…."

Before Natsu could finish, he stopped seeing the Queen mother and King. He soon broke the hug and bowed down to greet them..

"Good Afternoon, your highness."

"Mom, Dad... what do you want?" Gray asked as he folded his arms.

"So dear, it was your doing that now Jude has accepted your friend to wed his daughter, huh?" Mika asked as she raised her eyebrow.

"What are you talking about? I don't know anything?" Gray laughed sheepishly and tried to change the topic.

"Oh we heard your friend's speech, my son. What did you do to convince Jude?" Silver asked as he sat down on the couch opposite to the bed with his wife.

Natsu, who was about to leave the room, was stopped by Silver and told him to stay.

"Firstly, I made Natsu as my bodyguard which you agreed after seeing his talents and skill.

Secondly, I taught him some manners regarding the royal life which he's still learning.

Thirdly, I sent him to Lucy's dad for a year when someone sent a threatening letter to uncle Jude stating that Lucy would be kidnapped which was sent by Erza by the way.

Finally, I didn't call off this wedding for these six years since if we called off then Lucy's dad would have brought another alliance for her. 

  So that's why, every now and then, I made excuses to get married without breaking down the engagement while Lucy tried from her side to convince her dad about Natsu and their love for one another which she succeeded at the end."

Gray at last revealed the whole plan to his parents and looked at them expecting a bunch of scolding but was shocked to see his parents smiling and especially his mom tearing up.

Gray soon went near her and hugged her, "Mom, I'm sorry if I made a mistake. I thought I was helping my friends this way. I know I shouldn't have led you guys on this matter. I'm extremely sorry for making you guys disappointed."

Mika patted her son's back, "Dear, you are truly a gentleman. I'm proud that we have raised a son who is helpful and selfless. Don't apologise."

"So Gray, are you seeing someone? If yes, then share it with us. We will get you married to your dream girl." Silver asked for which Gray remained silent.

"And what was that you guys were talking about Juvia's help?" Mika questioned the boys whose faces became pale as the name was uttered by the queen.

#gruvia #nalu #fairy tail gray #gray fullbuster #fairy tail erza #fairy tail jellal #fairy tail lucy #fairy tail juvia #fairy tail natsu #fairy tail levy #fairy tail gajeel #gale #jerza #gray x juvia #natsu x lucy

[vannahfanfics]

Oooo, #7 please!

Yaaaas! I could scream about my OTPS until the end of time. Keep in mind that these are kinda normie, and more interesting ships of mine fall under the alternate question of rarepairs, so if you’re interested, someone ask ;)

Number Ten- Roxas and Xion

Kingdom Hearts is one of my all-time favorite game series. I actually began with Days, and Roxas has had my heart ever since then. Roxas and Xion’s relationship is just so pure and devoted, and it just has me some kind of way. 

Number Nine- Renzo Shima and Izumo Kamiki

(Ugh, there are no good GIFs of the two of them, so ignore Rin standing there like a moron and focus on my beautiful pink-haired boy and his purple-haired girlfriend). 

The manga could still go many ways at this point, but ever since their initial interactions, I just loved the idea of the two together. Kamiki is so serious and no-nonsense, while Renzo is just all-nonsense. Absolute perfection. Kamiki’s arc in particular had me feeling some kind of way about them, urgh, my heart! 

Number Eight- Gray Fullbuster and Juvia Lockser

Want to talk about made for each other? These fools. I could write a thesis just on the ways they’ve grown as characters just by interacting with each other. I mean, we’re just practically waiting for Gray to confess his love to her any chapter now! Juvia has matured a lot from “crazy stalker” and honestly, you go, sis. Their love is so deep and pure and it just makes me want to cry. I love them. 

Number Seven- Natsu Dragneel and Lucy Heartfilia

Ugh, another match made in Heaven. I could go on for days. Any implications of romance aside, their relationship is still so deep and loving and meaningful that it just brings a tear to my eye. You want to talk about ultimate trust and devotion? These two, right here. They are the literal definition of ride or die. My heart. 

Number Six- Naruto Uzumaki and Hinata Hyuga

Though the writing ultimately failed them, I still love this ship. Potential-wise, they are gorgeous. Two cute beans being cute together? Holy shit! Plus, I love that Naruto is an inspiration to Hinata and I love to think that he encourages her growth, and honestly, Hinata is the ultimate partner for him. He needs someone who can stand behind him and be a source of strength when he begins to doubt himself. They lift each other up in their own unique ways, and it’s just magical. Plus, they are so shy and domestic. Goals. 

Number Five- Gajeel Redfox and Levy McGarden

“You’re small, so stay beside me”? FUCKING ICONIC. To be honest, I always fancied the two based on the subtle hints Mashima gave us, but when that arc hit, man, I was on this ship for life. Then the kiss when he was drowning? The tearful confession when he thought he was going to die? Ugh, man, I’m in my feels. “The big, buff grumpy man is soft for his small wife” is the ultimate trope, confirmed. 

Number Four- Sanji and Nami

Honestly, most of the reason I like this ship is just pure aesthetic. I mean, look at them. Beautiful couple. Of course, at the heart of it all is how they treat one another. Sanji and Nami have such subtle, interwoven, masterful nuance that it’s hard not to envision some kind of connection between them. I love them!

Number Three- Tohru Honda and Kyo Sohma

Fruits Basket was the first anime I ever watched in entirety and the first manga I ever read. I was so excited to hear it was remastered for its anniversary, and that the anime would hopefully span the length of the manga! Honestly, this romance defined a generation. The way Kyo falling in love with her is just so masterfully written that it just makes me soft. God, my heart. 

Number Two- Denki Kaminari and Kyoka Jiro

This one snuck up on me. Before the infamous chapter, I fancied the two; their interactions were fun and aesthetically they’re an interesting combo, but that scene? Kaminari looking into the distance as he thought of the person most important to him, and it was her? Fucking blastoff, man, right up here. I love them so much it hurts. I want nothing but good things for them. I’m crying. 

Number One- Shikamaru Nara and Temari

Ultimate OTP. I will ship them in Hell. The most well-written and nuanced relationship in Naruto and I will die on this hill. They are just such a combo, two dorks who know nothing about love but somehow bungle into it anyway. The looks. The words. The subtlety of blossoming feelings all beginning with mutual respect. Perfection. 100,000,000/10. 

Honorable mentions: Roy Mustang x Riza (FullMetal Alchemist), Sora x Kairi (Kingdom Hearts), Uryu Ishida x Orihime Inoue (Bleach), Ichigo Kurosaki x Orihime Inoue (Bleach), Erza Scarlet x Jellal Hernandez (Fairy Tail), Ban x Elaine (The Seven Deadly Sins), Katsuki Bakugo x Ochako Uraraka (My Hero Academia), Izuku Midoriya x Ochako Uraraka (My Hero Academia), Shoto Todoroki x Momo Yaoyaorozu (My Hero Academia) 

#gajevy #shikatema #nalu #gruvia #naruhina #kamijiro #sannami #tohruxkyo #roxas x xion #renzo x kamiki #ask game #top ten ask game #ask me a question #roxas answers stuff #roxas answers things

[foreveransparrow]

Fairy Fear Week 2020 - Day 2

Hello, everyone! This is my submission for Fairy Fear Week 2020 run by @ftguildevents. I’ll post a short story everyday of the event. All short stories can be read on its own, however, i did my best to create one big story through the collection, so make sure to read all of them in sequence, if you’re interested in that 😊 This is my second time participing in an event and my third time trying to write a fanfic, so all feedback is highly appreciated, since i’m certain i’ll need lots of it haha Anyway, without futher ado... Happy Halloween!

DAY 2: TRADITIONAL. PROMPT: SPIRITS

“Ms. Heartfilia, if you are in need of a new wrist watch, may I suggest the Horologium brand?  They say you will never be late with one of those…”

The embarrassment Lucy felt prevented her of saying anything. In fact, it prevented her from doing anything at all, considering she must have stood at the door completely frozen for a whole minute, until her creative writing teacher, Mr. Capricorn, instructed her to sit down and get started on the assignment. The fear of being called out for a third time on a row seemed to do the trick as Lucy promptly did as told.

While she took her notebook and pencil case out of her backpack, she looked around the classroom. With ease, she spotted Levy McGarden a couple of rows to the right. Although her friend was one of the shortest students at Fairy Tail High, her vibrant blue hair made her stand out in any crowd, especially with the orange bandanna she made a point to wear every day to school since October started. Levy said it was her way to ensure Halloween was celebrated to its fullest, which meant, as the days went by, hinting the upcoming holiday even more with black-painted nails, spider rings and countless other subtle references.

Lucy was worried Levy might have been upset they didn’t get to meet before class, but one glance at Levy made her realized she would have to sort that out later. Levy was writing frantically, so intensely focused on her task that her nose tip was almost touching the paper, which gave Lucy absolutely no chance of getting her attention. Lucy sighed in defeat and tried to follow her friend’s lead to get some work done. Apparently, Levy wasn’t the only one drawing inspiration from Halloween, since the blackboard challenged the students to reinterpret the classic ghost genre with their own personal touch. Lucy reminisced about an old story her mother used to tell her. It was one of her earliest memories, if not the very first one she had. It was about the stars.

It was told each star in the sky represented a spirit from another realm. For a long time, it was believed the spirits didn’t take any interest in humankind. Being ancient beings with countless time in their hands, it seemed there was no reason why they would. It was certain that whatever admiration humankind felt for the stars would remain forever unrequited. That was until a little girl changed it all. Like many others before her, she was deeply in love with the stars. She wondered what they looked like, what they dreamed about and if they fell in love, even if not with humankind. However, unlike everyone else, she had never asked for her questions to be answered. In fact, she had never asked for anything from the spirits. She didn’t mind not knowing.

On a faithful night, her father woke her up in the middle of the night. He said her mother was calling for her and that what she had to say could not wait. The little girl was confused, nevertheless, she followed him. Her mother was laid down in bed. She tried to sit up when she saw her daughter, but failed to do so. For some reason that the little girl could not reckon, her mother was very weak. With a push on the back from her father, she got closer to her mother. From close distance, she realized her mother had sweat dripping from her forehead and that her breathing was erratic. Frightened, the little girl took a step back, which didn’t go unnoticed by her mother. Standing her hand towards her daughter, she finally spoke.

“Do you fear the stars, my love?” The little girl nodded in denial. “Then there is no reason for you to fear me now, because I’m merely becoming a star.”

The little girl said nothing. Instead, she reached for her mother’s hand and held it tight to her heart. When the sun rose, her mother was gone, just like all the other stars from the night sky. When night time came again, the little girl went to her backyard and, for the first time ever, wished upon a star. She wished the spirits knew what an honor it was to have her mother beside them. She wished they knew the only enviable thing about them was that they had countless time to be with her. She wished they knew nothing about love so they would learn from her mother what true love really is. The little girl wished as much as she grieved and as hard as she cried.

“We know, my friend.”

A deep voice resonated in the air. The tallest man the little girl had ever seen stood in front of her. His skin was a light blue and his eyes were dark red. His white mustache was so long it reached his broad shoulders. Two horns adorned his head and, placed between them, there was a golden star. Everything about his appearance was intimidating, but the little girl felt no danger coming from him.

“Do you?” She confronted him.

Her boldness made him laugh. “Yes, we do.” He assured her.

And as simple as that, the little girl believed him.

“I brought you something.” He showed her a silver key.

“What does it open?”

“A gate.” And with that being said, the man disappeared.

It would take years for the little girl to grasp what had happened. She was the first celestial gatekeeper to ever exist, people capable of summoning the spirits from their realm to the human. It was an honor granted to very few of those who wished upon the stars not for themselves, but for the ones they loved and cared. And when it came their time to join the spirits as a star, they would be welcomed as old friends, as if they were the same little girl who came before them.

That story was Lucy’s favorite and even though, as a teenager, she still had many years ahead of her to change her mind about it, she was confident that no other story would be quite special as that one. Lucy decided to use the tale’s premise of a world where the celestial spirits could be summoned to earth by humans as the background concept of her writing assignment.

When class ended, she was quite pleased with her first draft, in light of the short amount of time she had to work with after her delayed arrival. It was about the banishing of the zodiac sign of Leo, whose exile from the celestial realm had slowly drained his vital energy until he was a mere ghost waiting for his own vanishing. In her second draft, she was hoping to explore with more details the reasons and actions which led to his dismissal and assure her character had a redemption scene in which he safely returned to the celestial realm before ending the story. What could she say, ghost story or not, she owed to a certain little girl to guarantee all stars were where they rightfully belonged.

#ftguildevents #fairyfearweek2020 #lucy heartfilia #levy mcgarden #capricorn #fairy tail #fanfiction #likearrietty

[sunflowerheartwriting]

Dragonic 22: Fin

A/N: So...Its been a while. I know some of you may be mad or upset with me (completely understandable), but thank you guys so much for still sticking with the story and sending me such sweet messages urging me to continue. It's a long story why I've been gone for so long, so if you want to know there will be a short explanation(?) at the end. If you don't want to read it, that's cool too. I still love you guys and thank you so much for all your love and support!! <3  Read the Previous parts on FF.net and AO3! 

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Once dressed, Levy walked into the room to see Gajeel pacing, fiddling with his hands nervously running them through his hair. His amber eyes shot up towards her when he heard the bathroom door close behind her. It only took him one large step to make it to her, lifting her up into a tight embrace. Wrapping her arms around his neck, she held him just as tightly, breathing in his scent.

She didn’t realize how much she’s missed him until he had his arms holding her close with his face buried in her neck. There were no words, just the feel of each other’s warmth. He didn’t want to let her go and she didn’t want to either. Eyes burning with tears as her emotions overwhelmed her, she refused to hold them back, letting them dampen his dark hair.

“I’m so sorry, Gajeel.” She choked on a sob, hugging him tighter as he backed them up towards the bed so he could sit with her cradled against him. He was so gentle with her, it made the tears pour faster; only she get to see this side of him.

He immediately shushed her with his lips crushing onto her, proving how much he missed and craved her. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she kissed him back, their hands tangling in each other’s hair. Taking a much needed breath Levy backed away leaning her forehead against his, a small smile curling her lips.

“You’re here, you’re really here.” Gajeel sighed cupping her cheeks, swiping away tears with his thumb. “I thought I was going to lose you.”

“I’m sorry. I should’ve told you I wasn’t feeling well, it was silly-“

“No, do not apologize.” Gajeel interrupted, pulling back slightly, so he could look her better. His red eyes were burning with so much fear and anger, it made her own eyes grow wide with confusion. “I should’ve paid more attention. I was so wrapped up in what I was doing I wasn’t paying attention to how you were feeling.”

He wasn’t angry with her, he was angry with himself. That broke her heart even more. How could she let this happen; let him carry this burden. “It’s not your job to make sure I’m healthy.”

“And that’s where you’re wrong. It is my job. Lev, I love you and I would do everything in my power to make sure this never happens again.”

Opening her mouth to argue back, she immediately closed it knowing that look in Gajeel eyes. His red irises were sharp and unyielding telling her that he wasn’t going to back down. They could go back and forth all day if they wanted too, but she knew it wasn’t worth it. Knowing that this argument wasn’t going anywhere, with her definitely losing, she nodded her head. She would rather not fight right now anyway now that she was back. Instead, she would rather be smothered by her King and never leave his side.

“Ok, you win.” The smile he gave nearly made her heart stop, reminding her one of the reasons why she fell for him. Averting her pink cheeks from his gaze she took another look around the strange room, asking, “Where are we?”

“This room used to be Wendy’s when she was younger; it’s connected to mine.” Gajeel pointed towards a dark blue door beside the bed. “When she was afraid to sleep alone, I transformed this stupid concubine room to hers. I let her pick out everything, the colors, furniture and did everything myself. Never liked it before I changed it anyway.”

Levy laughed at his comment trying to imagine the almost sea themed room into something more…provocative. It seemed wrong now that it was fashioned for a child, and she was now curious as to why he never liked it before. She always thought the rulers treasured the concubine rooms, knowing they could have their pick of ladies just waiting for them.  

“What didn’t you like about it?”

“I didn’t want a concubine,” Gajeel said flatly as her attention turned back towards him. His eyes softened before he continued. “I wanted a wife.”

His words struck her in the heart causing her face to turn red and eyes go wide. He shot her a toothy grin, his signature laugh pulling a smile from her. Burying her face in his shoulder, she let out a muffled, “dork.”

“As long as I’m your dork.” He chuckled squeezing her sides affectionately earning a giggle.

-------

“LEVY!” Natsu shouted, pulling the small woman into a tight hug, lifting her off the ground. “I’m so glad to see you! You should’ve seen metal face pouting and brooding around the castle. It was like he was walking around with his own dark cloud.”

“Oi! Shut up flame breath! I was not!” Gajeel defended crossing his arms over his chest. Lucy laughed patting Gajeel on the arm shooting him a sympathetic look.

The three including PantherLily and Happy all sat down for dinner, Levy clearly famished. Afterwards, Gajeel took Levy on a walk, never keeping the small woman out of his sight or away from his side. They walked in comfortable silence, Gajeel leading her to a part of the garden she never noticed before, by the hand. She slowed when she noticed a statue of a great metal dragon seemingly made of iron, sparkling in the moonlight. It was beautiful.

The stature reminded her of someone, causing a light chuckle to escape her lips as she smiled warmly at it. She could feel Gajeel’s questioning gaze on her, giving her a firm squeeze on the hand to catch her attention. Without turning around, she kept her eyes on the statue a small smile curling her lips.

She wasn’t sure how he would take her meeting his father, but if he really loved her, he wouldn’t think she was some crazed woman. “I was . . . just thinking that this statue reminded me of your dad.”

“Oh yea, this was made for him by my mom. I’m surprised you caught on to it. A lot of people think it’s just our house symbol.”

“The dragon has his stern face, but I know your dad has a softer side to him. Just like you.” They were both quiet for a moment, Gajeel staring at her in confusion with Levy thinking back onto the conversation she had with Metalicana. “When I was . . . asleep, I guess you could say, I was in between life and death. With the decision as to what happens to me being mine. I was there for what felt like an hour or two, but during that time I was reunited with my parents and I met your dad. I also met Igneel and Grandeeney.”

Gajeel’s eyes were wide and his mouth hung open, with his hand squeezing hers a lot tighter now, but not enough to hurt. “Your dad intimidated and scared the crap out of me, with just a look. He just sat there staring at me and if I had anything in my stomach, I’m sure I would’ve puked right then and there. But then Igneel and Grandeeney interrupted his silent interrogation causing his demeanor to change, slightly. Grandeeney was super sweet and pretty. I can see where Wendy gets her personality from and the interaction between Igneel and Metalicana reminded me of Natsu and you. And, Melly is a super cute nickname for your dad by the way and I’m not sure if I can call him Metalicana ever again. Melly has such a nice ring to it and I’m sure he’s cursing me from the afterlife right now for saying it.”

She wasn’t sure it was possible, but Gajeel eyes got wider and his mouth dropped lower with a hint of recognition in his eyes. His mouth opened and closed like a fish out of water, before he finally decided to close it blowing a large breath shaking his head.

“You really met my dad, aunt and uncle?”

“Yes, and we watched you sing the most beautiful song. They told me what it meant and how could you make such a promise to me.” She blurted out hitting his chest with flushed cheeks at the memory of him singing.

Wrapping an arm around her waist, he pulled her flush against him, flashing his fangs with a smile. Her entire body flamed up at their closeness and the predatory smile that curled his lips.

“Because, you’re mine Levy McGarden and there’s nothing you can do about it.” He didn’t even give her a chance to respond before pressing his lips to hers sealing his confession with a passionate kiss. When they finally separated her mind was hazy and her eyes were dreamy, but she had only one thing on her mind at that moment.

“You said that in the common tongue. You’ve been practicing.”

Throwing his head back, he belts out a laugh. “I tell you you’re mine and the first thing you say is I’ve been practicing?” Running his hands through her hair he looked at her with such adoration she was sure she was dreaming again, but this time she got to be close to him. “There’s only one reason why I’ve studied hard.”

Her breath caught in her throat as she watched him get down on one knee pulling out a black box from his pocket. “Lev, will you marry me?” Her eyes barely registered the stunning ring that sat prettily in its cushion as she flung herself at him. Wrapping her arms around his neck, she cried for the second time that night, a chorus of ‘yes’ tumbling from her lips.

Picking her up, he spun her around, her giggles spreading throughout the garden. After her tears stopped and he put the ring on her finger, she asked him a question. “How did you learn it so fast? I’ve been teaching you for months, but I’m out for a few days and you can speak perfectly.”

She felt him shiver as he twirled her hair while she sat in his lap. “Erza can be quite motivating and I’m sure I have a permanent lump on the back of my head from it.”

Rubbing the back of his head softly she kissed his cheek. “I’m sorry, is there anything I can do to make it better?”

Tapping his finger on his chin, seemingly to pretend to think even though they both knew he already knew what he wanted to say. “How about spend the rest of your life with a grumpy dragon?”

Repeating his pretend thinking process, Levy tried everything to hold back the smirk at the little pout Gajeel had the longer she stretched her contemplation. “I think I can do that, only if Lily can be the ring barrier.”

“Deal!” He agreed quickly, this time Levy leaning forward to pull him down towards her to steal his breath away.

This is where she’s meant to be, with him. She may miss her parents, but she has a future right here with the man that showed her she can still have a family of her own and be loved. Pulling away she leaned her head against his shoulder taking a much needed deep breath. “Thank you, Gajeel. For everything.” She didn’t need a response him pulling her closer to him was enough for her. They had the rest of their lives for idle words, but right now all they needed was each other’s warmth and love.

            -----------------------------------------------------------------------------

A/N: If you couldn't tell by the title this is the last and final chapter. I really didn't want this story to end. I loved it and the characters so much I didn't want it to end. I also wanted a supreme awesome ending but couldn't find it in myself to pull that off. I've tweaked this chapter so many times it's sad but thank you guys again for sticking with me and waiting oh so patiently. These past few months...almost year lol has been hard for me mentally. My anxiety and depression sky rocketed and I couldn't control it. I haven't had a bad episode like that in years. It was hard to deal with my mental health and work in the mental health field. My job is mentally, emotionally and physically draining it made it worse, but I'm better now! Everything's fine and I just want to say to all my friends, readers, to you that if you're going through something, anything. You will get through this! Everything will be ok! You are loved and I love you! You can get through this! You will get through this! <3

#gajevy #gajevy fanfic #multigajevy #fairy tail fanfic #ftfanfic #fairy tail multific #gajeel redfox #levy mcgarden #gajevy fanfiction #gale #ft gale #gajevy multific

[be-dazzled]

She’s In Your Court #SIYC Gray Fullbuster, Juvia Lockser FFnet link: click here Tumblr: explore here Genre: Multi-Chapter, Romance, Comedy Rating: M for Sensitive Language

SUMMARY: Gray Fullbuster is a player both in love and in life. He plays Professional Basketball and is being groomed to be in line with Basketball Legends Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Kobe Bryant and Stephen Curry. 

There’s just one problem, Gray Fullbuster is a play-ah. His life is a giant mess of crazy parties, waking up with random women and waking up in random women’s apartments. Just living the life. The opinion of the public on him is waning. To save the million-dollar endorsements in the verge of disappearing, Gray needs to change his image. Therefore, Gray Fullbuster, Fiore Knight’s Team Captain and Most Valuable Player, will be in the next season of “My Star Can Dance”. 

There’s another problem: it seems like his star isn’t that bright since his partner, one of Fiore’s prominent ballerinas, doesn’t know him? His billboard is hanging in front of her dancing school! And it was a good billboard since all he was wearing was his six-pack and an Aztec bandana. How come she didn’t notice?

The days are bright and so are the nights. ‘Cause when I’m with you I'm grinning Once I was screwed now I’m winning No I won't let you go Now you know

– Heart on Fire, Jonathan Clay

Juvia Lockser held herself together until she finally got inside her house. But the moment the door clicked shut behind her, the memory of the kiss sapped all her strength in one go.

 The ballerina leaned against the oak door, heart trembling in excitement. She had no idea how late it was but Juvia Lockser was wide awake. Every cell in her body was electrified by the kiss. She lifted her fingers to her own lips. The warmth of Gray’s lips lingered and his taste stayed.

 Oh his taste.

 Juvia wondered if it was okay to let him kiss her and in such a way on what technically was their first date. (She finally gave up in the middle of it all and finally called it a date.) Juvia wasn’t sure. It has been a while since the last time she went on one.

 The following morning, as the memory of last night flashed before her eyes, a wave of shame hit her at full speed. Juvia ought to hit herself with the way she cradled her body against Gray’s; like it was the most normal thing to do. She probably looked too promiscuous. Oh, and how welcoming she was when he slid his tongue in. Juvia slapped her palms against her burning cheeks. She wasn’t her normal self. But it’s 2019. Kids nowadays were a bit straightforward and liberated. A kiss on the first day was normal, right?

 “Okay, Juvia. Just act normal.”

 The wall clock on her studio read 3:50. Its short hand stroke clockwise. Juvia could almost hear it ticking. Or it could have been her heart beating against her chest. She wasn’t sure anymore.

 From: BILLBOARD GUY

 BE THERE IN 10.

 Juvia prepped herself as she waited. She felt both nervous and excited. It was crazy. Why did she have to feel all conscious when it was her own studio?

 There was only one reason: last night she wasn’t able to sleep. Not just because she actually stayed up to google ‘kiss on a first date’ and something along that line. While the results shocked and comforted her, Juvia had one problem: she was going to face Gray in practice today and Juvia Lockser had no idea how to do just about that.

 Juvia expelled a long breath.

 “Normal.” She finally chanted. Yet, the fast hammering in her chest morphed into butterflies in the stomach.

 Was a kiss on a first date appropriate? The internet was divided. For Juvia, however, she wouldn’t normally do it. She’d save a light peck on the lips for when she was finally exclusively dating the guy. But last night’s kiss wasn’t a light peck. Suddenly remembering what transpired the night before, Juvia felt the heat rise up her cheeks.

 “Are you alright, Juvia?”

 Levy came up behind her and startled the ballerina.

 “Of course! Why wouldn’t I be?”

 Levy narrowed her brown eyes at the blushing ballerina. Her look was suspicious. Juvia had to admit, she sounded a little defensive there.

 “Anyway, what are you doing here, Shrimp?” Juvia quickly changed the subject before Shrimp had the opportunity to interrogate her about turning tomato.

 “Well, tallest woman around here…”

 Juvia smiled at the jab. Shrimp was learning to fight for herself.

 “We’re going to take a clip of you and Gray practicing. It’s for the AVP.”

 Juvia looked over her friend’s shoulders. It wasn’t really hard to do so because Juvia was taller than Levy. Behind the writer, the show’s crew was already setting up their expensive film equipment.

 “I called and texted to remind you last night, remember?”

 Of course, not. That part skipped her mind. With that thing with Gray happening last night, how could she remember anything else?

 “Right.” Juvia lied but Levy did not buy into it.

 Levy could tell when she was lying or trying to keep something from her. If there was one thing she’d learned within those ten years of friendship it’s that Juvia Lockser was a bad liar. But she had to give it to Juvia, the woman was great at avoiding topics; ignoring the poor “My Star Can Dance” writer included.

 Juvia walked back to the reception desk where her young assistant, Mary, busied herself around the computer. The ignored show writer trailed behind her. If Levy wanted to get some information, she would have to work for it.

 “So… you went on a date last night, huh?”

 “It wasn’t a date.”

 Juvia knew Shrimp would never back down. The latter was already phishing for answers. Also, didn’t she finally give up and started calling last night a date?

 “It’s all over the news you know. Even trending on twitter!” Levy squealed.

 The shorter bluenette took one of the seats at the reception desk and planted her elbows on the flat surface. She was going to get to the bottom of things.

 “It’s true!” Mary acclaimed, weighing in on the conversation. “It’s trending at Top 2 on twitter. Look, Ms. Juvia.” Mary all but shoved the phone to Juvia’s face who acted as if she didn’t care a whit. Truth of the matter was it got Juvia curious.

 “It’s giving us a lot of publicity.”

 “That’s good, then.”

 Juvia reminded herself to create her own twitter account later. Of course, she’d lurk around that site under an assumed handle name.

 “You met the Fiore Knights?” Levy’s brown eyes glistened with excitement. She could only imagine how it would have been to be surrounded by the men from Fiore Knights. Her high school fan-girl heart was leaping.

 “Yeah. They were nice.”

 It wasn’t the reaction Levy McGarden had in mind. She expected some squealing, high-fiving, excited shrilling: the full fan-girl experience!

 “C’mon! Spill the deets, Juv.”

 Talking to Juvia Lockser about her date was like talking to a brick wall. The woman wouldn’t budge an inch. Levy could not help but wonder when did her best friend get so secretive?

 “We danced and had fun, Levy. That’s all.”

 Poor Levy; Juvia wouldn’t give her the real thing. But Juvia wasn’t ready to throw it out to the universe, the real thing. She wasn’t even sure herself what last night meant. They went out, they had fun and they kissed. But that was all there was to it – just fun.

 Juvia felt a knot in her stomach. For all she knew, she could just be another name in Gray’s list. That possibility stung a little. Did she want something more from him? Could she expect more from Gray? Juvia had no answer. But if there was something she was quite sure of, she didn’t want to be just some fun night for Gray.

  Gray couldn’t sleep; he couldn’t sleep a wink. When he reached his uptown loft last night, he threw himself on the bed; heart leaping in joy. It has been awhile since he went on a date ‘date’ and not just some one-nighter with some stranger.

 Gray tossed and turned in his bed and screamed into the pillow. His body simply cannot contain the excitement from tasting Juvia’s kiss.

 “Should I text her?”

 The man bolted up from his lying position and searched for his phone. Fishing it out from his pocket, Gray started typing something in his mobile. But for some reason, the confident Fiore Knights Captain became so unsure of himself and it made him delete and retype his message over and over again.

 Suddenly, it hit him. It has been awhile since he went on an actual date and not just some hook-up with a meal plan. He forgot all about the SOP. Should he text her? Should he call? Should he just leave the woman alone?

 It was easier for one-night stands. He just left them ‘thank you’ notes and never saw them again. That was it. He did not like any drama. With Juvia it was different. Gray wanted to see her everyday. He actually looked forward to every meeting and every practice. He missed her the moment they separate. Like how he missed her now.

 “No. I should call her.”

 Gray scrolled through his contacts and ended at Juvia’s name. Just as he was about to click ‘call’, the current circumstances registered to him. His eyes darted on the desk clock sitting on his nightstand; it read four.

 “She’s probably asleep now.”

 As much as he wanted to hear her voice again, Gray decided against calling at that ungodly hour. He settled on just staring at the photo of him and Juvia from the party earlier. Natsu sent it to him but not before some friendly teases and violent threats.

 Gray remembered the moment immortalized in the paragraph. He had said something funny which earned a laugh from the ballerina. They looked so comfortable and so natural that Natsu called it cozy. Gray was looking at her, at Juvia who had her usually condescending eyes closed. Her nose crinkled too. Then his gaze fell on her lips and Gray remembered their kiss and how she tasted.

 Oh, her taste. How much he missed it.

 The following morning, Gray still had that foolish smile on his face. He looked for his phone first and pondered over sending Juvia a good morning text. He did, writing a short but sweet message. His heart hammered like crazy as he waited for Juvia’s reply. It almost jumped of his chest when not a minute later he received a reply from the ballerina.

 He waited not long to continue the conversation but his typing was interrupted by a call. It was Briar.

 “Oh, shhh*!” Gray cursed. He guessed he should save the texting for later.

  Gray walked into the gymnasium like some kind of a hero or a punchline of a joke. It depended on how he would take the teasing from his team. But he was such in a good mood he didn’t even give a damn. He used that energy to wipe the floor with his Vice Captain’s face.

 “Someone’s all fired up.” Natsu managed to say as he tried to catch his breath. He was the one guarding the Team Captain and was effortlessly side-stepped.

 “Try to keep up, Old Fart.” Gray patted his Vice Captain at the back, mocking him with pretentious concern.

 “Don’t be too smug.” Natsu yelled after him.

 Gray only shrugged at him. Then he pointed at the scoreboard. 15 vs. 5. Team White, headed by Vice Captain Natsu, got some catching up to do.

 “A man in love is invincible.” Loke, Fiore Knight’s Resident Playboy, proudly announced.

 “Are you on my team or what? Just get to your position.” Natsu hissed.

 “Geez. Who hurt you?” Loke thought his Vice Captain needed to get a girlfriend. And fast.

 The practice match ended with Gray’s Black Team winning by a landslide. He rushed over to the bleachers and searched for his phone in his duffel. On bat, he opened the message from Juvia.

 ‘HAVE FUN. CAREFUL.’

 The message said. It felt like Gray was back in High School exchanging texts with his first girlfriend. Butterflies fluttered in his stomach. He bit his towel to refrain from squealing.

 ‘YOU TOO. WILL BE THERE AFTER A FEW MORE ROUNDS.’

 Gray texted back.

 “So, what’s the deal with you and Ms. Lockser?”

 Gray raised a bow at his nosy teammate.

 “What? You went home together after the party, right?” Loke accused.

 Gray could see the interest in Loke’s eyes. Knowing the playboy, he was waiting to hear from him since this morning.

 “Well, you really want to know?”

 The orange head bobbed in anticipation; his eyes sparkled with excitement. Gray’s adventures had always been exciting. Natsu, who stayed behind, just shook his head. He knew where the conversation was going.

 “Come closer.” Gray invited, putting his arm around his small forward’s shoulder and pulled him close. He lowered his voice as if telling the man a secret.

 “I drove her home.” Gray purposely talked slow, playing on his listener’s anticipation. He paused for reaction when Loke, so invested with the story, impatiently pressed him to continue.

 “Then, we went to bed...” Gray hit the playboy at the back of his head. “Separately, you snoop.” He finished and the entire gym erupted in laughter.

 “Geez, man. You got me excited for nothing.” Loke complained as he nursed the pain at the back of his head. He didn’t get mad at his Captain’s violence. If Loke had to ask himself, Mr. Playboy deserved it.

 Natsu laughed at Loke’s misfortune. Knowing his best friend and Team Captain, he knew Gray would never kiss and tell. Sometimes, he did just to rub such fact in Loke’s face. They have some kind of stupid competition. Boys will be boys. Sometimes, he saved those details to himself. Especially when it came to a woman like Juvia.

 The sound of the whistle yanked their heads back to the coach. Coach Macao called the team for another round. Gray asked for an extra minute. He wanted to send Juvia one last text before he finished practice.

 ‘CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOU.’

 He just hit send when he felt a sudden contact with a hard object. It bounced off his head.

 “Hey!” His anger deflated quickly when he turned around and saw Briar glaring at him. Her hands were on her hips, eyes narrowed at him. Briar did not look happy.

 “Get your head out of your pants and focus.”

 Gray laughed it off like a bad joke. He knew he was in the wrong so he did not bother to cook up some excuse. Texting during practice was not professional of him.

 “Yes, boss!” He gave Briar a salute as he jogged past his manager’s murderous look.

 At the other end of the line, a certain blue-head choked on her bottle of water reading the last text Gray sent.

  Gray shook his hands and his entire body. The excitement and the familiar feeling were threatening to escape his body. The cool down exercises were not enough.

 A sharp breath escaped him. Gray needed to let it out. His heart was beating like crazy.

 “C’mon, self. We’ve waited the whole day for this.” He prepped himself before pushing the twin door open.

 Juvia’s beauty was magnet. Gray came upon that realization because the moment he entered Juvia’s studio, his eyes wandered over to where the ballerina was. From that moment, he couldn’t take his eyes off her.

 Gray walked over to the reception desk where two blue-heads and a pink one gathered. He met Juvia’s eyes and he recognized the slight surprise in them. Gray smiled at her, the yearning feeling bringing his feet to where she was. He was glad when she walked around the desk and toward him.

 Gray anticipated the friendly greeting, he wasn’t sure how Juvia would approach him. Would she give him a kiss? A hug? Either would not be so bad, Gray thought. They stopped in the middle, a few feet away from each other. Gray leaned in for a kiss but Juvia walked past him after saying, “get changed.”

 That was it? No kiss or hug or anything?  He was disappointed but the smile would not leave his lips. When he turned around he saw the show’s crew studying them.

 “Ah, maybe, she’s shy.” He told himself. He would let it pass for now. They both need to focus.

 When he returned after changing into his practice clothes, a few crew members asked for his autograph and took photos. Then the production director briefed Gray and Juvia on the scenes that they needed to film. Whenever he got the chance, Gray would strike up a conversation with Juvia. Every time, however, she found some reason to dodge him.

 Gray had enough of it. So, when he pulled the evasive ballerina against him per their dance routine, Hoopster discreetly asked.

 “Why are you avoiding me?”

 “I’m not.” Juvia answered point blank.

 “Yes, yes you are.”

 When he turned her around to face him, Gray saw Juvia inhale a breath. Her eyes landed on his lips. Then, she shook her head as if trying to shake away some thoughts. Gray was pleased. He knew she liked the kiss and, like him, she wanted more.

 The next section of the routine brought Juvia to face the audience with her back leaning against Gray’s chest. Hoopster seized the contact and leaned in to whisper something to Juvia’s ears.

 “I’m sure you remembered last night’s–”

 What he was about to say next was cut-off by Juvia, placing a finger on his parted lips. She then traced a seductive trail from his lips down his chest before she ended the choreography. Gray was caught off-guard at how she turned the table on him. He froze on the spot; his body went haywire from the simple touch.

 “That-that wasn’t in the original choreography.”

 Gray announced which drew laughter from their audience.

 “That’s going in the final cut.” He heard someone say.

  It was little over eight in the evening when the production director called it a day. His crew members gathered all their expensive equipment and bade goodbye to the stars of the day – Juvia and Gray. Levy stayed behind and chatted a little about the live performance. In the next few days, Juvia and Gray would be performing in front of a live studio audience.

 Mary was the last one to leave. Juvia felt a knot in her stomach when she realized that she was now all alone with Gray. Breathe in, breathe out, she ordered herself. She was going to face him whether she liked or not.

 What was she so afraid of?

 If Juvia was being honest, she was afraid that the kiss meant nothing to Gray. To her, there was something. That fear gripped at her heart. To Gray, she knew, she was easily replaceable. When she turned around, ready to face the music, Gray was already standing before her waiting for some sort of explanation.

 “So, should we talk about last night?”

 “There’s nothing to talk about.”

 It was Juvia’s defense mechanism – managing expectations. In order to protect her feelings and to stop before she began to feel something she shouldn’t, Juvia masked her fear with indifference. She’d pull back before it was too late. Gray was the kind who jumped from one lover to another, Juvia wasn’t.

 “Really? So can you please explain to me why you’re acting so distant all of a sudden?”

 “What are you talking about? I’m my normal self.” Juvia defended, looking everywhere but at Gray.

 She walked past him and pretended to arrange the stack of magazines on the counter. It was, at least, true. She was just back to the serious, no non-sense Juvia that she originally was.

 “Then look at me.”

 Juvia did as she was told, wanting to prove Gray wrong. The ballerina looked Gray in the eyes for a second but she couldn’t hold his gaze. Her eyes keep drifting away from his eyes and unto his lips. She caught herself drawn into his enticing lips.

 Last night’s kiss flooded her memory and it awakened a longing she had been fighting all day. Juvia pulled away before she revealed more of herself. But before she could turn away from him completely, Gray caught her by the waist and ended both their agony.

 Gray crashed his lips against hers. Juvia tried to pull back but he slid his hand behind and cupped her head, holding the helpless ballerina to him. She stopped fighting the voice at the back of her mind and surrendered to her feelings. Juvia kissed Gray back with the same fervor. His taste was as sweet and as heady as she remembered. Only this time, Gray wasn’t holding back and neither was she. Juvia softened into him and molded her body to fit his. She instinctively tried to get close to him as much as possible, unable to stand the idea of being apart. So did Gray. He held Juvia against him, afraid to lose her woman.

 The kiss was the type she never had before: satisfying and hungry at the same time.

 Juvia didn’t hear a knock but as soon as she heard her assistant’s voice, she pushed Gray with all her willpower.

 The arrival of the sudden guest stunned the two and the panic of getting caught rotted the couple on the spot. Juvia wished Mary didn’t see anything or she wouldn’t be able to live it down.

 “Mary! What brings you in here?” Juvia managed to ask as she tried to hide the red spread over her cheeks.

 “I just forgot the papers you told me to study, Ms. Juvia.” Mary answered.

 Mary threw the couple a suspicious look but Gray played it cool. While Juvia, Juvia was stuttering like a bad liar. If Mary didn’t know better, she’d think her boss was so eager to get rid of her with the way she was almost shoving the girl out the door.

 Maybe, Juvia Lockser was eager to be left alone with Gray Fullbuster.

 A sigh of relief escaped her lungs. Juvia’s legs almost gave out. She leaned against the twin doors after shutting them close, her back against the wood. She finally let out the breath she was holding. Next thing she knew Gray was right in front of her, just a breath away. She saw his intent and had only time for an indrawn breath when Gray pressed her against the door, his mouth was on hers. He was ready to pick up where they left off.

Writer’s Corner: Hi guys! I’ve uploaded the latest chapter per @justbeingtruemyself‘s request. Thank you for all your support especially @ship-ambrosia @thewritingstar @juviaesthetic. You guys make me feel special with all your comments. Hope you guys like this new chapter. 

To all other Gruvians, let’s keep the fire burning. #GruviaForever

#gray x juvia #gruvia #gray fullbuster #juvia lockser #she's in your court #siyc #gruvia fanfiction #gruvia au

[petri808]

We’ll Take Back Heaven a Nalu Yakuza Au

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 |

A loud slam of the organization’s front door caused Levy McGarden to pop her head out of her own office. Curious, she walked down the hallway and saw a light on in her boss’s, Lucy Heartfilia. Had the noise been Lucy returning? That was strange because it was too early for the woman to be back so soon. The party should have kept Lucy out of the office until morning. Levy knocked at the cracked door before entering.

“Lu, why are you here? Are you okay?” Levy quickly added when she saw her boss’s forehead leaning on the table. “Did you drink too much?”

“No… I ran into Natsu, and we had a fight,” Lucy answered without lifting her head. “He just makes me so angry sometimes, so I stormed out of there.”

“Aww, Lu.” Levy walked over and put a hand on her friend’s head. “I’m sorry.” Both Lucy and Natsu were childhood friends of hers, so she knew the history between them. It was just like a made for television movie plot and hard to stay neutral in at times because she loved them both. “Do you wanna talk about it? Need a drink?”

Having heard the loud noise, another associate Cana Alberona also came looking for the source and stumbled upon the beginnings of the conversation. “Did I hear the word drink?” She popped her head into the office. “Oh, baby what’s wrong??” She questioned at seeing Lucy upset. Cana quickly joined Levy next to their friend. “Who do I gotta kill?”

“It’s just Natsu,” Lucy mumbled. “So, no killing.”

“Oh… him.” Cana plopped her butt onto Lucy’s desk. “Ya sure? I bet I could get one of my girls to take him out of your misery.”

“He wouldn’t be interested,” Levy piped in.

“Right… he’s still—”

Lucy sat up groaning, cutting them off. “That’s enough. I really don’t wanna think about that shit right now.”

“Fine, fine, then drinks it is. Relax, babe,” Cana playfully pushed on Lucy’s shoulder before plopping off the desk. “Then you’re gonna dish about tonight.” Cana always kept a stock of liquors at her desk. So, she grabbed a bottle of high quality flavored junmai daiginjo sake, glasses and set the girls up for a gossiping session.

It was reasons like this that really spoke to the heart of their organization. Everyone in the top level of this girl’s gang had known each other from childhood or high school. They were close, a found family of sisters who all had one thing in common— a real dislike for Japan’s outdated notions of gendered norms, well that and a desire to make money. But not in a conventional way. None of them wanted to work a boring office job only to what, be subservient to the male status quo? No, thank you. So, it had been Lucy who’d first approached everyone with the idea of creating their own high-end crime organization. It was amusing at first to think about an all-girl gang similar to the Yakuza… Oh, they all knew why Lucy came up with the idea to spite Natsu and the Yakuza’s rules, but it was an appealing idea. Everyone except for Levy’s family had some kind of ties to the Yakuza, so they were in essence raised in the lifestyle without ever being able to be a part of it because of their sex.

Together they brought their strengths into play and under Lucy’s business savvy thanks to her father, within just a short couple of years they were on the road to making a real name for themselves. Levy McGarden was at the heart of the organization as a tech person, and her skills in computer language is the reason they’re able to control a massively successful money laundering operation. Cana Alberona had great people skills, so she handled the escort services. Another, Erza Scarlet was the security expert who oversaw anything to do with the protection of their assets and employees. She also kept contacts with law enforcement. Mira Strauss handled the bookkeeping and financial side, and finally Juvia Lockser managed their soapland operation. Lucy herself held everything together but was the face of the group when dealing with knew contacts and clientele. Six primary women running the organization with underlings or regular staff to manage, they were nicknamed the Yosei girls because of the various fairy-type tattoos they all had somewhere on their bodies. Lucy preferred not to show hers to outsiders, but it was a pair of fanciful fairy-like wings that took up a large portion of her upper back. Natsu used to call her his angel back in the day…

The three girls sat huddled around Lucy’s desk after Levy dragged over a couple extra chairs.

“Seriously?” Cana knocked back a shot of sake and planted it on the table. “So, you didn’t have a chance to hit any marks?”

“Nope.” Lucy sipped from her glass. “Sure, I talked to some people, but I never made it past my first cocktail. He even blocked me from getting some action tonight from the hot bartender.”

Cana cringed. “That’s even worse!”

Levy giggled at her friend, “of course, you’d take offense to that Cana instead of the job.”

“Well,” Cana shrugged nonchalantly, “girls gotta take care of needs too, right? And if he was hot, that’s a real shame.”

The comment sent both Levy and Lucy into a giggle fit. Lucy may have started this out irritated but leave it to her friends to bring her out of her despair.

“Oh,” Lucy sighed and finished her glass, “the guy Loke was a total playboy too. Perfect for a no strings attached night.”

“Loke?” Cana questioned. “Orange hair and glasses?”

“You know him?— of course, you know him,” Lucy chuckled. “Why am I surprised.”

“I’ve seen him at other parties bartending. Flirts with all— the pretty girls. Very easy to get into bed, and not bad while in it. I got his number if you want it.”

“Natsu scared him pretty bad. I think Loke recognized him.”

“Hmm, that’s possible too. But hey, what Natsu doesn’t know…”

“Oh, my Kami, Cana! You are just too much sometimes!”

“Hey, just tryin’ to help out my bestie here,” she winked.

“Nah, I’m not in the mood tonight, Natsu really killed my joy.”

“He really thought that the guys there were gossiping about you?” Levy questioned. “Just because you didn’t have an escort?”

“Yeah, and you know even if he was right, he didn’t need to be a dick about it.”

Levy sighed, “he was probably right. It sucks, but that level of men, they look down on women like us. You provide a service, so to them they’re still using you which makes you beneath them.”

“And how dare a woman show up without a man by her side,” Cana rolled her eyes. “Oh well, less guilt for me when I’m taking their money,” she laughed.

Levy and Lucy laughed too, then Lucy raised a glass. “To taking their money! Cheers!”

“Cheers!” The girls clinked their glasses together and shot down their drinks.

“Speaking of escorts, how are things going Cana?” Lucy asked. They called their employees escorts because that’s the only service they provided. Think of them like high-end modern geisha without the traditional look. Their employed women provided companionship for events or business executives trying to look good and we’re trained well in hospitality, etiquette, and such to keep their dates happy. The women were highly compensated for what they did, so it was very lucrative for everyone. Sex was forbidden on the job and if a client ever tried to pressure an escort or roughed them up, they would be immediately barred from the service. However, if the infraction were bad enough, that’s when Erza would step in and handle things. The group was lucky this rarely took place because the male clientele they had wouldn’t want the shame of embarrassment either.

“Going great. We’re already getting booked up for the holidays and that still 4 months away. I guess they wanna make sure they can get certain girls before it’s too late.”

“Suckers.” Lucy snickered. “We’re using their own social norms against them, and they don’t even realize it.”

Between the three friends, they drank about half the bottle before slowing down. The conversation switched between work related topics, private lives, and back to Natsu until Lucy would switch the topic again. She knew of her buddy’s willful infatuation in her decades old battle with the man, but she just wasn’t in the mood to talk about it. Lucy still had a lot to process privately about the issues and though she loved Cana as a sister, Levy was the only one she’d really tell her deepest feelings to and now wasn’t the time to rehash anything. A few hours passed by when a knock at the door came. Another of their group was dropping by before heading out to work.

“Hey Juvia!” The three tipsy girls giggle at the same time.

“Wanna join us?” Cana questioned.

“Juvia would but she needs to check on Faerieland.”

“How is our soapland operation doing? Any problems I need to know about?” Lucy asked Juvia. The Faerieland bathhouse was the lowest level of their operations since flesh services were considered distasteful. But nevertheless, it was a highly profitable and legal one. What set them apart from all the others was the high-end quality of services offered to guests, providing both male and/or female “bathers” that clients could pay extra for to have a sexual experience. However, for that service, the client was required to be vetted by an inhouse doctor prior to a booking to make sure they were free of STD’s. Again, that was just one reason Faerieland was considered so high end and very exclusive. Some might have found it inconvenient, but most of the regulars appreciated the health factor. It’s what kept them coming back. All the employed bathers were screened regularly by an in-house doctor, and contrary to societal belief, were there by their own choice. So, the combination of anonymity, safety, and level of service kept the soapland business running with very little down times in between.

Juvia shook her head. “No problems, just busy due to the heat this time of year. Private bookings are scheduled out into next month.”

“That’s good to hear,” Levy smiled. “It’s nice that things have been running so smoothly.”

“Agreed,” Cana and Lucy chimed in.

“There is one thing Juvia should tell Lucy.” Her voice lowered, hesitant. “Mr. Natsu has an appointment booked for the end of the month. And he… just made it tonight.”

Lucy rolled her eyes and her voice dripped with irritation. “So, who’d he sign up to bang?”

“Nobody. Mr. Natsu only booked the deluxe bath and massage package. No sex.”

“Oh—” Lucy caught her surprise before she could show it, waving her hand nonchalantly as if she didn’t care. “W-well good for him. Not that I care if we’re making money of it.”

“Juvia is so relieved! She was worried you wouldn’t like him using our bath house.”

“It’s rare that he does,” Cana tapped her chin. “Hmmm, I wonder why he made the appointment tonight of all days…”

Levy slapped Cana on the arm, glaring at the woman to behave and Juvia just stood there wide-eyed and confused.

“What?!” Cana laughed. “I thought it was funny.”

“Ha-Ha,” Lucy mocked Cana. “What Natsu does is his own business and it’s not like he was trying to relieve himself tonight, the appointment is what, two and half weeks or so away? I’m not gonna lose sleep over it.”

“Okay… Juvia is confused but needs to go. Someone can fill Juvia in tomorrow.”

“Sorry, Juvia,” Levy apologized for the others. “I’ll fill you in later. But don’t worry! Everything is okay.”

“That’s good. Well then. Goodnight, everyone!” Juvia waved as she left the office.

“Goodnight!” The three waved.

“Cana,” Lucy reignited the debated now that Juvia was gone. “I don’t care if Natsu sleeps with other women, how can I when I have no problem sleeping with other men. We’re not a couple. But what does irritate me is that of all the bathhouses to choose, why mine??”

“It’s probably because of our services…” Levy threw in to diffuse the tension. “We do provide the best.”

“Yeah, I know,” Lucy sighed, “it just— it feels like he’s doing it on purpose.”

“You know I’m just teasing you, Lucy.” Cana retorted. “But I think you’re also reading too much into it. He’s a guy and history has shown a clueless one when it comes to women, so I doubt he’s masterminded going to the bathhouse as a way to irritate you.”

Lucy exhaled. “You guys are probably right. I guess I’m just still too wound up because of the party.”

“Maybe what you need to do is to unwind Lu,” Levy suggested.

Lucy sat back for a moment mulling over the idea. Yeah, maybe she should. It sure as hell wouldn’t hurt. Maybe let off some steam and stop thinking about Natsu, and a one-night fling could do just that. “You know what…” she turned to Cana with a new resolve. “What’s Loke’s number?”

Cana whipped out her phone. “Now that’s what I’m talkin’ about!”

#nalu #nalu au #yakuza au #natsu dragneel #lucy heartfilia #nalu fan fic #nalu fanfiction #ch 4 #we'll take back heaven #petri808

[splendidlyimperfect]

Written for @fyeahstingsu​ Stingsu Event 2019 [super late entry I’m sorry!]; prompt: birthday

Also written for Nonbinary Month 2019 [Natsu + Trans, Sting + Trans]

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Sting's known for a long time that Natsu is who he wants to be with forever - ever since the day they met under a string of lanterns shaped like fireflies and kissed under the stars. The life they make together isn't always easy, but it's worth every moment.

Chapter Summary: 

Chapters (5/5): 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 Rating: General Audiences Relationships: Natsu Dragneel/Sting Eucliffe Characters: Natsu Dragneel, Sting Eucliffe, Lucy Heartfilia, Levy McGarden Additional Tags: Alternate Universe - Modern Setting, Flowers, Fluff, Domestic Fluff, Dorks in Love, they're adorable and i love them, Natsu is awkward as hell, and Sting loves him for it, Tumblr: FTLGBTales, Marriage Proposal, Weddings, Wedding Fluff, Trans Character, Trans Male Character, Pregnancy, Trans Male Pregnancy, parenting, Trans Sting, Trans Natsu, everyone's gay because reasons, Cute Kids, they're both awesome dads

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“I’m five.”

A little voice comes from the other side of the library information desk and Levy frowns, standing up from the computer and leaning over the counter. She’s greeted by a wild head of blond curls and serious blue eyes.

“Hey sweetie,” she says, giving the little boy a smile. “What’s your name?”

“Jacen,” he says, standing on his tiptoes and holding onto the counter. “I’m five and in kindergarten.”

“Wow,” Levy says, opening the gate and coming around the desk so she can crouch down next to Jacen. He’s wearing purple rain boots and a t-shirt that says you are my sunshine, and a clip with a sunflower on it is attempting to hold back some of his wild hair. “Do you need help with something, Jacen?”

“I needed a book,” he says, still looking incredibly serious for someone so little.

“What kind of book?”

“A book to give babies names,” he says. Levy raises her eyebrows, trying not to laugh as she stands up and offers him her hand. He stares at it for a second, then turns around and looks over to the other end of the library where a man with blond hair like Jacen’s is holding a little girl on his lap. The man looks up and waves at Jacen, giving Levy a smile.

“That’s my daddy and my sister,” Jacen says, waving back at the man and then taking Levy’s hand. “She’s two and boring.”

Levy laughs as she guides Jacen toward the nonfiction area, searching the rows of books until she comes to a section on pregnancy and parenting. She crouches down, running her fingers along the spines until she finds two books on baby names.

“Which one do you want?” she asks Jacen, holding them both out for his inspection. He peers at them with narrowed eyes. One is pink with a generic smiling baby on the front, and the other has a rainbow on it.

“I can have both?” he asks, looking up at Levy hopefully. Her heart melts at his sweet expression and she nods.

“Of course,” she says, and when his face transforms into a smile, she wants to pick him up and hug him. “Is your mommy having a baby?” she asks as she stands up and they both head back toward the desk.

“No,” Jacen says, shaking his head. “Papa has a baby.” Levy frowns, looking back over at the man with the little girl. Jacen gives her a spectacular eye roll and sighs. “That’s not Papa, that’s Daddy.”

“Ah,” Levy says.

Continue reading on AO3

She’s about to lead Jacen back over to his father when a voice says, “are you being polite, little man?” Levy turns to see another man with bright pink hair standing behind them and raising his eyebrows at Jacen.

“Papa!” Jacen shouts, throwing himself at the man. “Look! The lady finded me books to make a name for the baby!” Then he kisses the man’s stomach and turns back to Levy with a bright smile on his face. Levy realizes with the start that the man is pregnant, and it takes her brain a second to catch up with Jacen’s excited bouncing.

“I’m Natsu,” the man says, running his fingers through Jacen’s hair and then reaching out to shake Levy’s hand. “Sorry about him, he’s really excited.”

Levy shakes her head, smiling at both of them. “Don’t apologize,” she says, making a funny face at Jacen. He giggles, then lets go of Natsu and hugs her instead. “He’s much more polite than the last person who asked me for help.”

Natsu laughs, rubbing the back of his neck and nodding at the books. “He, uh… he has his own library card, but I’m pretty sure that’s not the kind of stuff kids normally take out.”

Levy waves off the embarrassed explanation, taking the library card that Jacen proudly holds out and running it under the scanner. “When are you due?” she asks.

“Oh.” Natsu’s cheeks turn pink and he looks back down at Jacen. “A month or so.”

“On Christmas!” Jacen says, staring up at Levy with a grin on his face.

“Maybe,” Natsu corrects, giving him a gentle smile. “Remember, we don’t know exactly when.”

“I know when,” Jacen says solemnly. “It’s my superpower.” Natsu rolls his eyes good-naturedly and is about to say something else when Jacen frowns at Levy’s stomach. “Do you have a baby too?” he asks.

“Jacen!” Natsu chides, reaching out for Jacen’s arm, but Levy just laughs and nods. She’s only showing a little right now, but Jacen’s not the first curious kid to ask.

“Guess what?” she says, crouching down next to Jacen again. “I have two babies.”

Jacen’s eyes widen and he looks back up at Natsu, who still looks vaguely embarrassed. “You can have two babies?” Jacen asks.

“Yep,” Levy says, smiling at him. “It’s called twins.”

“Papa, I want two babies!” Jacen says.

Natsu laughs. “No way, kiddo,” he says. “You and your sister and this little one are gonna be enough trouble.”

Jacen’s face falls, and Levy takes one of his hands. “How about when my babies are born, you can come see them?” she offers. Then she looks up at Natsu and adds, “if you papa says that’s okay.”

Natsu looks surprised, then smiles and nods. “Yeah,” he says, taking the books from Levy and resting one hand on Jacen’s head. “Yeah, that sounds good.”

~

“You making new friends?” Sting asks when Jacen and Natsu rejoin him at the play area of the library. Penelope looks up from the blocks she’s playing with and says, “friends!”

“Jacen got us a playdate,” Natsu says, helping Sting up. “With twins.” Sting frowns and looks over at Levy, who is sorting books at the desk. “In six months,” Natsu clarifies. “I’m pretty sure he’s forgotten how boring babies are.”

Sting laughs, kissing Natsu’s cheek. “All right, you two,” he says, reaching down and lifting Penelope up onto his hip. “You ready to go see Uncle Rogue and Uncle Gray?”

Jacen’s eyes widen and he jumps up and down, then grabs Natsu’s hand and starts to drag him toward the doors. Natsu tugs Sting along behind him, laughing at Jacen’s excited squeals. “Guess that’s a yes.”

~

Sting puts the kids to bed that night while Natsu dozes on the couch.

“God, I love you,” Natsu murmurs when Sting finally reappears. He tips his head back on the couch and smiles at Sting, pulling him down for a kiss. Sting laughs, rubbing their noses together. 

“I know you do,” he says. “You want popcorn?”

“Do you really need to ask that?” Natsu replies, curling up in the corner of the couch while Sting heads to the kitchen. Jacen and Penelope are both fast asleep, and part of Natsu feels like sleeping, too.

“You gonna make it through the movie?” Sting asks when he returns with popcorn. “Or should I put you to bed?” Natsu hums noncommittally, shifting to make room for Sting on the couch next to him.

“Maybe,” he admits, leaning into Sting. “You’re comfy.”

“I know,” Sting says, grinning and kissing Natsu’s head. He grabs a pillow and settles it into his lap so Natsu can lie down, then starts running his fingers through Natsu’s hair. “You’ve got peanut butter in here,” he comments, and Natsu just sighs.

“This is the last kid,” he grumbles, shifting to a more comfortable position. The baby kicks hard and he winces, then sighs when Sting starts rubbing gentle circles on his stomach. “That feels good.”

Sting doesn’t say anything, just gazes down at Natsu as he nudges Natsu’s shirt up and traces gentle patterns across his skin. Heat rushes to Natsu’s cheeks when Sting’s fingers run over the stretch marks across his stomach, but he doesn’t pull away. Sting likes him just like this.

“What if I wanna make out with you instead of watching a movie?” Sting asks, leaning down and kissing Natsu.

“I could be persuaded,” Natsu murmurs against Sting’s lips, reaching up and running a hand through his hair. Sting’s gentle touch moves further up Natsu’s side and Natsu hums happily, arching up into the touch.

“Good,” Sting says, kissing Natsu harder. Natsu nips at Sting’s lip and is about to suggest they head to the bedroom when the baby gives a particularly hard kick and he groans, tipping his head back into Sting’s lap.

“Sorry,” he grumbles. “They’re already interrupting us, and they aren’t even born yet.” Sting laughs, and when there’s another kick beneath his hand, he leans down and presses a kiss to Natsu’s stomach.

“I love you,” Sting whispers, and Natsu isn’t sure if Sting is talking to him or the baby, but it doesn’t really matter. The smile on Sting’s face is enough to light up the room.

There’s a familiar twisting sensation in Natsu’s stomach and he watches Sting’s eyes widen as he feels the movement under his fingers. “They’re doing gymnastics for you,” Natsu teases. He shifts again, groaning when he can’t quite get comfortable.

“Wanna come take a bath?” Sting asks, resting his head on Natsu’s stomach and gazing up at him. Natsu yawns, rubbing his face and nodding before looking over at the coffee table.

“What about the popcorn?”

~

Sting manages to run the bath without waking up either of the kids, and when they’re finally settled into it, Natsu breathes a sigh of relief. He relaxes between Sting’s legs, leaning back against his chest, and hums happily when Sting cups the water in his hands and starts to wet Natsu’s hair.

“You’re spoiling me,” Natsu murmurs, tipping his head forward as Sting’s fingers work out the knots – and peanut butter – from his hair.

“You deserve it,” Sting says, kissing the back of Natsu’s neck. “Plus, I’m not doing this for entirely altruistic reasons.”

Natsu laughs, reaching down into the water and running his hand up Sting’s thigh. The heat and gentle touches are making him sleepy, but he’s not quite ready to end the day yet.

“C’mere,” he says, tipping his head back against Sting’s shoulder and kissing him.

In a few weeks, everything’s going to change again. It’ll be loud and messy, and Natsu’s ready, this time – for the fussing and crying and the sleepless nights in the rocking chair. They’ll all be exhausted, and it’ll be entirely worth it, just like the other two.

But right now, Natsu’s warm and comfortable, curled up in his husband’s arms. They kiss softly, taking their time with each other because these simple, quiet touches are precious and so full of love.  

And Natsu will never get tired of moments like this.

#fairy tail #ftlgbtales #ftlgbtfics #nbm2019 #stingsu #stingsu2019 #nonbinary month #sting eucliffe #natsu dragneel #sting x natsu #prompt: birthday #trans characters #fanfic #my fic

[riverofmemoriesft]

Master List

Unreleased WIPs: 

Title: Between the Lines: Scripted in Iron Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: Gajeel x Levy Chapters completed: 2 Summary: “‘You did not ruin me, Gajeel Redfox.  You hurt me, broke my body in a way that even Porlyusica could almost not do anything for, but you did not ruin me.  You made me realize how much work I have to do to live up to others in my guild, but I am here.  I am alive.  I lived to fight another day.  When you came after me, you didn’t ruin me, Gajeel.  You ruined yourself.’” Notes: How Levy and Gajeel got together in the BTL-universe.

Title: In Tenebris {Rewrite} Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: Natsu x Lucy, Gajeel x Levy Chapters completed: 4 Summary: After discovering a trio of scientific experiments who are the equivalents of dragons, life for Lucy Heartfilia and Levy McGarden gets flipped upside down.  Apparently, protecting dragons brings a few others like them knocking and makes things crazy.  It doesn’t help that some of the “others” are a whole lot less friendly. Notes: Bet you didn’t think I was still working on this.  REWRITE!  This is gonna be a whole lot darker than the original. 

Title: Out of Reach Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: Sting x Rhith Vila (OC), Natsu x Lucy Chapters completed: 1 Summary: When a series of odd dreams leads Natsu, Sting, and Rogue to an anti-magic village in the mountains near Crocus, they’re alarmed to discover that things aren’t quite as peaceful as they seemed to be.  Acnologia’s returning, the entire truth of END is brought to light, the stars are going out, a supposed god has come knocking, and the dead are apparently coming back to life. Notes: Sequel to Not As It Seems.  Got inspired when reading reviews and drawing Rhith.  

Title: Withstanding Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: Natsu x Lucy Chapters completed: N/A Summary: When Makarov gives Natsu a small, in-town job, he doesn’t expect to find himself in a hostage situation.  Things take a dark turn, and Juvia, undercover, is devastated to realize she can’t help him, nor can anyone else until the demands are met.  Time is running out, and Lucy finds herself having to make an impossible decision she isn’t sure she can make. Notes: A story akin to A Game of Life and Obsessive Impulsive.  I’ve got plans, my friends. 

WIPs

Title: Between the Lines: Tales of Fiore Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: Various Chapters completed: 3 Summary:  A collection of stories from the universe of Between the Lines.

Title: Of Dust and Shadows Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: Natsu x Lucy Chapters completed: 38 Summary: After falling through time, Lucy Heartfilia finds that history – both the world's and her own – isn't as black and white as she thought it was. With the discovery of magic and the fact that she's arrived in a three-year period no one knows anything about, Lucy is determined to stop the devastation she knows is coming – all while being irreversibly tied to the one who creates it. Notes: A delight to write and share.

Title: Skinwalker Series: Supernatural Pairings: Dean x Alex Montgomery (OC) Chapters completed: 44 Summary: After confronting a young British woman about a dog that mysteriously appears at several crime scenes, the Winchesters gain an ally in their war against what comes knocking in the dark of the night. Except this ally may or may not be one of the very things they're determined to kill.  Notes: Let’s see if I ever finish this.

Title: Songcraft Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: Natsu x Lucy, various other pairings included throughout Chapters completed: 22 Summary: "Perhaps we were someone else, once upon a time. Perhaps we even hold their memories in our heads. Maybe it means something that we've found one another now for some strange unknown reason, but it doesn't mean we are them." Notes: Reincarnation AU

Title: To the Stars and Back Series: Doctor Who Pairings: 10th/11th Doctor x Jayden O’Connors (OC) Chapters completed: 17 Summary: Tagging along in the TARDIS after being rescued from a situation she was sold into, Jayden O'Connors finds that life isn't quite as pointless as she thought it to be. When the Doctor's involved, it's full of adventure and constant running. But the clock is ticking, and it doesn't look like running is an option - especially when you're facing death. Notes: Someday I’ll finish this one as well.  I have a lot of work to do.

Complete: 

Title: Between the Lines  Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: Natsu x Lucy, various other pairings throughout Chapters completed: 343 Summary: In a world that knows nothing of magic, there's a hidden society of people with incredible abilities. After joining the Fairy Tail guild and partnering with a crazy pyromaniac by the name of Natsu Dragneel as well as his flying blue cat, Lucy Heartfilia begins to learn that everyone has secrets - some of which even lie within her own family - and that nothing is ever as it seems.

Title: Not As It Seems Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: Natsu x Lucy, Sting x Rhith Vila (OC) Chapters completed: 18 Summary:   When Rhith Vila, an illusion mage employed by the Magic Council, is sent to investigate an influx of magic in Magnolia, she discovers that things are worse than originally thought. Meanwhile, Natsu and the guild are thrown into chaos when something that was never thought possible is discovered, leaving them brimming with determination to find their nakama and bring her home.

Title: Obsessive Impulsive Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: Gajeel x Levy Chapters completed: 20 Summary:   "'I've been trying to find you alone for weeks, but you've been avoiding me.' He clicked his tongue, as if scolding her. 'I tried approaching, but you always had someone with you to give me nasty words and looks. They turned you against me, Miss Levy.'" [Not for sensitive readers!]

Title: Oculto Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: Gajeel x Levy Chapters completed: 20 Summary:   When Levy takes a job requiring that she retrieve a treasure from ancient ruins, she doesn't expect there to be a guardian. In fact, she rejects Mira's offer of sending someone with her or even the idea that she should invite anyone other than Lily with her. "Good thing it's Mira, she's probably already sent Gajeel after us." {Gajeel x Levy}

Title: Paranormal Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: Natsu x Lucy Chapters completed: 31 Summary:   Living with a mostly friendly poltergeist and dealing with his "generous" acts of "kindness" is one thing. Figuring out just how he ended up there is a completely other matter that has Lucy's head spinning. And it certainly doesn't help that he's getting to be not nearly as friendly as time goes on. {WARNING: some of the content might not be for sensitive readers!}

Title: Paranormal: Tranquility Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: Natsu x Lucy Chapters completed: N/A Summary:   Saying goodbye is the hardest thing in the world. But sometimes, it's impossible, and Lucy knew that it was what trapped her there for so many years. {One-shot}{Semi-sequel to Paranormal}

Title: Redemption Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: Natsu x Lucy Chapters completed: N/A Summary:   There is a story rarely told, only beneath the comforting light of a full moon with a brightly lit fire as an offering to the demon they speak of. It is said to be a sacred tale that no man wishes to whisper unless it is done freely, beneath a blanket of stars that help to remind the demon of vows long since lost. A tale in which a demon breaks beneath the weight of redemption.

Title: The Game of Life Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: Natsu x Lucy, Gajeel x Levy Chapters completed: 13 Summary:   "You're new here, so I'll explain the rules once. Winners get one lash, losers die. It's quite simple. The last one standing gets no lash. We do one game a day here and you live as long as you can stand it. If you somehow miraculously try to get away, I kill you. It's quite simple really." [Not for sensitive readers!]

Title: The Traverler’s Song Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: Natsu x Lucy Chapters completed: N/A Summary:  "The song is not a popular one, only known by a select few that it has been passed down to. She's grateful that it was entrusted to her by the last member of the Fairy Tail guild before they'd passed away. It is known as the Song of Travelers and tells the story of a woman who travels with her lover and friends in search of help escaping from a bargain."

Title: The Twelve Days of Fairy Tail Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: Natsu x Lucy Chapters completed: N/A Summary:   "Every year, we do a little Christmas tradition that we call the Twelve Days of Fairy Tail. From the fourteenth of December until the twenty-fifth, one person will get on the nearest table at around ten in the morning and blurt out the song lyrics they've made for the song as well as the last set." In which Lucy experiences her first real Christmas in years and a guild tradition.

Title: Shattered Boundaries Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: N/A Chapters completed: N/A Summary:   The day Lucy was cursed, the Celestial Realm went into an uproar. Time shifted, the gates closed, and there wasn't much that could be done. Not that Loke didn't try.{One-shot}{Third in the Shattered Series}

Title: Shattered Dreams Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: Natsu x Lucy, various other pairings throughout Chapters completed: 25 Summary:   Lucy knew her dream of being a part of Fairy Tail was complete when they became her family, but sometimes when following your dreams, you forget that nightmares are dreams too. {First in the Shattered Series}

Title: Shattered Reality Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: Gajeel x Levy Chapters completed: 13 Summary:   As Lucy battles her nightmares, Gajeel, Levy, and Pantherlily set out to rid the world of the one behind them. Joined by someone they never expected to come across, it falls upon their shoulders to stop what could quite possibly be their demise alongside the destruction of Fiore. {Gajeel x Levy}{Spin-off of Shattered Dreams!}

Title: Shattered Souls Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: N/A Chapters completed: 8 Summary:   Team Natsu is a mess. And that's putting it lightly. {Last in the Shattered Series}

To Later Be Deleted...

Title: In Tenebris {Original} Series: Fairy Tail Pairings: Natsu x Lucy, Gajeel x Levy, various others Chapters completed: 29 Summary:  After purchasing a beautiful mansion for a ridiculously cheap price, Lucy and Levy are suspicious but can't find anything wrong with it...until Lucy discovers a trio of scientific experiments in a dungeon. Apparently, when confronted with the challenge of protecting people that are practically dragons from others like them, life tends to get a little crazy.

#fanfiction list #riverofmemoriesft #fairy tail #supernatural #doctor who

[furidojasutin]

Title: Challenge

Pairings: Frevy (Freed x Levy), Nalu (Natsu x Lucy

Universe: Canon

Rating: T (for suggestive themes)

a/n: A really spontaneous idea and I just had to write it out before sleep. Also I gotta fight my damn writer’s block that I’ve been having for so long. This has totally been written for @rougescribe btw! B) I hope this is something for you to enjoy once you wake up again hehe.

Levy bit her lower lip the same way Freed perceived as enticing. Quite frankly, it was absolutely unnecessary to try and get some sneaky good looks at her boyfriend after what they had done not long ago. She didn't need to hide it. He was standing there, naked, while she was still lying in bed covered by the blanket and her eyes just happened to wander.

It wasn't her fault that he had a nice butt, and a nice backside in general. Actually, she shouldn't start thinking about this again because she knew she'd end up just swooning over every part of him and her small grin widened. “I mean, I'm not complaining about the sight but I really didn't think that you would get up.“

Freed was still facing away from her as he grabbed his boxer shorts to put them back on but he was giving a silent smirk at her words. “You dared me to open the door, and you know that I cannot ignore a dare from you.“

“Because you're a sore loser.“

The rune mage huffed. “Don't get too cheeky now, Miss McGarden.“

“You know it's true,“ Levy grinned wider, a small chuckle following as she sat up. 

Freed quickly slid his dress shirt over his shoulders but let it remain unbuttoned. His hair was still in a pony tail but due to their previous bedroom activities it looked messy, many stray strands of hair sticking out.

When Freed turned around he looked her over, her loose hair even messier than his. She looked spent but at the same time her eyes were filled with joy and challenge, and he loved this look on her.

Noticing that she was holding up the blanket to cover herself, one edge of his mouth twitched. “That was the main course. We didn't have dessert yet. But we will have once whoever is demanding my attention is gone again.“

He had already turned around and put on a pokerface when a pleasant blush rose to Levy's cheeks. Freed knew how bashful she could still sometimes get even after intense intimacy, and he absolutely adored both sides of her – the side that was dominated by her confidence and teasing intellect and the side that got her those rosy cheeks and made her so much fun to mercilessly tease.

The script mage cupped her own face and then ran her hand through her hair before shifting so her feet dangled from the bed. He had gotten her with that but she too loved their banters as they felt so natural. Honest to god, she really couldn't complain about his implication either. She was exhausted, but in the most positive way that existed, and she bit her bottom lip again by the mere imagination of anything else their day off still had in store for them.

Meanwhile, Freed had made it to the door to see who was there and he realized what kind of impression he could possibly give when answering the bell like this. This is the reason why her dare was a dare after all.

So with his messy pony tail, his unbuttoned shirt and his boxer shorts he opened the door. It was safe to say that he was a little surprised to see Natsu and Lucy standing there.

“Hello Fr---eed,“ Lucy's cheerful voice dropped a little when her eyes obviously scanned his entire appearance. It had taken her off guard too much to see him like this.

Natsu seemed to care less because he just shot Freed one of his usual grins and waved. “Yho!“

“Good afternoon, you two.“ Alright, so this was an uncommon situation. But the Raijinshuu's captain would be lying if he said that he wasn't a little bit amused about Lucy's reaction. At this point he just knew little that she might have more info about the cause of his state already. “What brings you here?“

“Um-,“ Lucy began, her eyes meeting Freed's again. She briefly raised her hands to reveal a thick book in her grasp, then she gave a small sheepish chuckle. “I wanted to return this book I borrowed from Levy. She told me that she'll be with you the whole day so I thought that I could drop it off here since Natsu and I were near by and-“

Oh. Oh.

Freed blinked once as he processed the situation. His appearance might be more revealing than he had initially thought and he ended up clearing his throat. “I see, well-“

“So is, uh, Levy with you still?“

Again Freed blinked. But then the pokerface he had (kinda) managed to keep changed a little, eyes glinting. And he shouted. “Levy, you have visitors! It's important, come here quickly!“

There was no way she wouldn't hear. And thanks to his implication earlier he didn't think that she was anywhere near dressed up again. It made him smirk inwardly.

“She'll be here in a moment.“

“Great!“ Natsu grinned and was the first to step inside when Freed made a hand gesture to invite them in. Lucy followed and thanked Freed, her surprise still not fully seeped out of her face.

But it got even more awkward when Levy appeared.

Freed stood there with crossed arms and shot his girlfriend a very knowing and challenging look when she entered the room, her small body covered by one of his t-shirts only to cover most of her body as it was much larger than her own. She must have grabbed it quickly.

Levy returned his look but her gleaming cheeks were a feast.

“Lu, it's you- Hi!“ She grinned but scratched the back of her head as she came to stand next to her boyfriend.

Lucy gazed for a moment. She couldn't believe that she had possibly just run into her best friend and her boyfriend making love. Or perhaps they had been done already. Or she was overthinking things.

Yep, overthinking!

“Hey! I just wanted to drop off the book you borrowed me.“

“Oh! Thanks, Lu-chan!“ Levy smiled and took the book from her, hugging it to her chest. She didn't dare to look at Freed right now.

Even Natsu's expression had changed for a single moment but he was grinning again now. “Yho, Levy!“

Lucy really didn't know how he was doing this.

“Lucy's been swoonin' over this book the entire time. She ignored me for it!“

“I can't pay attention to you every single second!“ Lucy puffed out her cheeks.

“Ya should!“ Natsu cackled before looking at Freed and Levy again. “Sorry for burstin' in-“

“You're never sorry for bursting into somebody's room!“ Lucy gently slapped his side, cheeks still puffed out and slightly reddened from the entire situation.

It didn't faze Natsu one bit. “- Lucy would be so angry if somebody interrupted us. She gets all fired up every time, keke!“

The room was silent for a split-second. Somebody dare say that Natsu wasn't perceptive again. Or perhaps his great nose helped in this situation, too.

Then Lucy gave an incoherent sound, cheeks burning harder, and she hit his side again. “NATSU!“

Okay so not only had she walked into her best friend's love life but now her own boyfriend was making suggestive comments about her. Wow. Wow!

Not like she wasn't used to this from him because he had such a loose tongue but-

“Oh my god!“ The celestial mage rubbed her face, then she grabbed Natsu by his arm and dared to look Freed and Levy in the eye. “Bad timing! Okay! We should get going again. See you at the guild tomorrow you two?“ She was already half-dragging Natsu to the door of Freed's house and the sight was hilarious but also oh so lovingly typical.

Freed's subtle smirk was surfacing now and his eyes holding an amused glint. “You have nothing to apologize for. Thank you for the visit.“

“Thanks for bringing back the book, Lu-chan! See you!“ Levy had a crooked smirk on her face as well despite her still slightly flushed cheeks. Natsu basically saved her. Or the two of them. This could have gotten much more awkward if they had been brought more into focus after all.

And who was to blame as well? Her boyfriend who had to call her out of the bedroom while knowing what this would cause. Smug asshole.

When the door fell closed, Levy turned towards him and raised a brow.

Freed arched up a brow in return.

“You know what you did, Sir.“

“Oh? I don't believe I did anything apart from fulfilling the dare,“ he cheekily responded.

“You cheated! I wasn't supposed to join you!“

“I wouldn't call that cheating,“ he gave a hum. “I call that 'twisting the situation to my advantage'.“

“That's just the fancy wording for cheating.“

“Oh no.“

“Yes it is!“ She glared up at him though it was all in good spirits.

He just smirked, self-satisfied. “Who's the sore loser now?“

When she just averted her eyes from him in acted defiance, it only motivated him further to start another game. Or perhaps continue where they left off.

There was still the dessert to get.

Spurred on again, he reached out and gently cupper her right cheek with his palm. His deep voice dropped in volume just a bit to be noticable. “I think I want my shirt back.“

Levy instinctively leaned into his hand. The gesture was so soft but his voice and words suggested otherwise and it motivated her as much as it motivated him.

So she pulled herself away from him, shot him a look, and stepped back a little. “What if I want to keep it? You'll have to get it yourself. I might run away with it.“ She kept walking backwards.

“I have no problem chasing you.“

“I've got stamina,“ Levy responded confidently.

The rune mage gave a single chuckle. Stamina, huh? “Oh I know you do. But I do, too.“

Oh she knew. And perhaps she hadn't just referred to the stamina concerning running as he had probably noticed, if his chuckle was something to go by.

Freed slowly followed her lazy steps and his obvious smirk had changed into a subtle one, his eyes revealing more of his intentions this time.

This look made her feel hot again but it was intoxicating all the same.

“New challenge accepted.“

His voice sent a pleasant shiver down her spine and she didn't expect to get lifted up and slightly pushed against the wall behind her the next second.

She would have to apologize to the poor book that slipped out of her grasp when she instinctively wrapped arms and legs around Freed. But she certainly didn’t have any complaints on her mind right now.

#frevy #nalu #fairy tail #freed justine #levy mcgarden #natsu dragneel #lucy heartfilia #B) #miraAAAA #Sel writes #my stuff #freed x levy #natsu x lucy