Hey hope yall enjoy. leave a comment and if someone leaves a review I'll post another chapter tomorrow.
Lucy came rushing out of the estate's grand doors, her blue dress fluttering like a banner in the wind as she sprinted across the manicured lawn toward the gardens. Her ponytail bounced wildly, and her face was lit up with a bright, uncontainable smile that made her eyes sparkle like stars. "Varion!" she called, her voice high and breathless with excitement.
Varion turned at the sound, mid-conversation with Brandish about her Shrink magic, his crimson hair catching the afternoon sun. Before he could react, Lucy leaped into him with a giggling hug, her momentum nearly knocking him back a step. He caught her effortlessly, her laughter ringing out like music. The warmth of her embrace surprised him, her small arms wrapped tight around his neck, her face buried in his shoulder for a second before she pulled back, still grinning ear to ear.
"Lucy? What's going on?" Varion asked, his soft smile turning puzzled as he stared down at her. "You look like you just got a really good present."
She bounced on her toes, barely able to contain herself, her hands clasping his arms. "Mom said I can go with you to Fairy Tail! I can join the guild and everything! Isn't that amazing? We can adventure together, and train, and—"
Varion's eyes widened in genuine surprise, his mouth opening slightly as he processed her words. "You… what? Join Fairy Tail? Are you sure? Your parents are okay with that?"
"Yes!" Lucy nodded rapidly, her excitement bubbling over. "Mom convinced Dad—there are conditions, like writing letters every week and visiting once a month, and supporting myself, but I can do it! And she gave me three of her keys—Aquarius, Virgo, Taurus! The others are going to be scattered for me to find, like a challenge! Isn't it perfect?"
Varion's surprise softened into a warm smile, his hands squeezing her shoulders gently. "That's… incredible, Lucy. If that's what you want, Fairy Tail would love to have you. You're going to be amazing there."
Lucy's grin faltered just a fraction as her eyes drifted past him, landing on Brandish, who was watching the scene with her usual lazy amusement, one eyebrow arched. The realization hit Lucy like a splash of cold water—if she left for Fairy Tail, what about Brandish? Her new friend, who'd become like a sister in such a short time. The thought dampened her mood instantly, her shoulders slumping slightly as the joy dimmed in her eyes. "But… if I go, what about you, Brandish? I'd be leaving you here…"
Brandish tilted her head, her green hair shifting in the breeze, her expression thoughtful but not upset. She crossed her arms, considering it for a moment, recalling what Varion had shared during their garden walk, the chaotic fun of the guild, the training, the sense of family. A small smile tugged at her lips. "Actually… that sounds pretty fun. Shrinking stuff during fights? Hanging out with a bunch of weirdo mages? Yeah, I could get into that. I'll ask my grandma later, she's always saying I need more adventure anyway."
Lucy's face lit up again, brighter than before, as she rushed over and hugged Brandish tight. "Really? You'd come too? This is going to be the best!"
Brandish patted her back awkwardly, her lazy smile widening. "Sure, why not? As long as there's no early mornings."
Varion chuckled softly, watching the two with a fond expression. "Fairy Tail's going to be even more lively with you both."
Lucy, Varion, and Brandish sat under the shade of a large oak in the gardens, the afternoon sun filtering through the leaves in dappled patterns. Lucy bounced in her seat, still buzzing from her mother's approval, while Brandish lounged lazily against the tree trunk, and Varion leaned back on his hands, listening with a soft smile.
"So, the letters once a week—that's easy," Lucy said, ticking off on her fingers. "Visits monthly—no problem, Magnolia's not that far by train. Supporting myself… I'll take jobs at the guild, right? Like you do, Varion!"
Varion nodded. "Guild jobs pay well, especially if you're good and don't destroy stuff. Fairy Tail's got a request board full of them, everything from monster hunts to lost pets. You'll fit right in."
Brandish yawned, her green hair shifting as she stretched. "My Shrink magic would make for easy missions right? I could get into that. Again As long as I don't have to wake up early I'm good with just about anything."
Lucy giggled. "The guild sounds perfect! Varion, what's it like day to day? Do you all train together? Are there parties?"
Varion chuckled. "Every day's different. Mornings are quiet, unless Natsu starts a fight over breakfast. Afternoons, jobs or training with the kids mainly. Evenings are… yeah, parties. Makarov loves a good celebration and everyone that can drink normally ends up drunk and fighting."
They talked for about an hour, hashing out details—how Lucy would pack, what she'd bring (her favorite books, celestial magic notes, a few outfits), Brandish's grandma's approval (she'd likely say yes, given her adventurous spirit), and Varion offering tips on guild life. Lucy hung on his every word, her hand occasionally brushing his as she gestured excitedly, while Brandish threw in lazy quips that kept things light.
A maid approached then, her uniform crisp as she bowed slightly. "Miss Lucy, Master Varion, Miss Brandish—dinner is ready. Lord Jude and Lady Layla are waiting in the dining room."
Lucy jumped up. "Already? Okay, let's go!"
She grabbed Varion's hand, dragging him along with a beaming smile, Brandish following at her leisurely pace. They entered the dining room—a lavish space with a long mahogany table set with fine china, silverware gleaming under chandelier light, and a spread of roasted meats, fresh salads, warm bread, and desserts. Layla and Jude were already seated, Layla sipping tea, Jude setting aside his pipe.
As they took their seats—Lucy pulling Varion down next to her, still beaming—Jude cleared his throat. "Varion, Layla was the one who came up with the idea of lucy going with you, and I agreed after some… some discussion. We'd like Lucy to join Fairy Tail with you. But even though we want her to learn independence, we also want her to be safe. Would you be willing to let her stay at your house in Magnolia? We trust you after what you did for Layla and I would feel better knowing that she has someone looking out for her."
Varion paused mid-bite, surprised but nodding. "I wouldn't mind at all. She's welcome anytime. But… there's a bit of an issue. The house is already full with the five dragon slayers, plus Mira and her siblings now. Rooms are packed, some are doubling up as it is."
Layla giggled softly, her hand covering her mouth. "Oh, you sound like you have a lot on your hands already. Don't worry about it, we'll just pay to have your house expanded. Let's say five extra rooms. No problem at all."
Varion blinked, a bead of sweat forming on his brow. "Five rooms? That's… incredibly generous, but—"
Jude shook his head firmly, affronted at the idea. "Nonsense. Only five? How will he have room for a proper guest suite, a library for the kids' studies, or a training room? No, ten rooms at the bare minimum—the house is already small for that many."
Layla tilted her head thoughtfully. "You're right, dear. And perhaps a bigger kitchen—growing kids eat a lot. Oh, and a garden for little Wendy to practice her sky magic safely."
Jude nodded. "And a study for Varion—can't have the head of the household without one. Maybe expand the backyard too, for more space to run and train."
Varion sat dumbfounded, fork frozen halfway to his mouth, watching the two discuss turning his modest house into a sprawling mansion like it was the weather. "Uh… you don't have to—"
Layla waved a hand airily. "It's settled. We'll send builders tomorrow—no arguments."
Brandish smirked from across the table. "Looks like you're getting upgraded, hero boy."
Lucy beamed, squeezing Varion's arm happily, while he just stared, overwhelmed by the casual display of wealth.
Two days later, the Heartfilia estate buzzed with a mix of excitement and bittersweet energy. Lucy stood at the grand front doors, her suitcase packed to bursting with essentials—favorite books, a few outfits, her celestial magic notes, and the three golden keys from her mother. The rest of her belongings would be sent later by carriage, but she couldn't wait; her blue dress swirled as she bounced on her toes, ponytail swaying, eyes sparkling with anticipation. "I can't believe it's happening! Fairy Tail, adventures, training—it's all real!"
Brandish leaned against a column nearby, her own bag slung over her shoulder casually, her green hair tied back in a loose ponytail. She looked relaxed, as always, but there was a hint of curiosity in her lazy smile.
Layla and Jude stood before them, Layla's eyes misty as she pulled Lucy into a tight hug. "My sweet girl," she whispered, stroking her hair. "Be brave, be kind, and remember your promises. We'll miss you every day."
Lucy hugged back fiercely, tears welling up as she buried her face in her mother's shoulder. "I will, Mom. Letters every week, visits every month—I promise. And I'll make you proud."
Jude stepped forward next, his mustache twitching as he fought back emotion, pulling Lucy into a bear hug. "My little girl… the house won't be the same without you. Stay safe, and remember—your old man's always here if you need him."
Lucy sniffled, tears streaming now as she nodded against his chest. "I love you, Dad. I'll visit soon—I promise."
Brandish, meanwhile, said her goodbye to her grandmother—a stern but affectionate older woman with the same green hair, dressed in a simple maid's uniform. The elder hugged her briefly, patting her back. "Don't be lazy out there, girl. Use that magic of yours properly. And write occasionally."
Brandish shrugged with a smirk, hugging back loosely. "Yeah, yeah. I'll try not to shrink the guild hall or anything. See ya, Grandma."
The farewell was short and understated, true to Brandish's laid-back nature, no tears, just a wave as she stepped back.
Jude turned to Varion last, his expression serious as he shook the boy's hand firmly, his grip strong and paternal. "Varion… please look after her. She means the world to me, to us."
Varion met his gaze steadily, returning the shake. "I will, sir. I promise. And you're welcome to visit anytime, Fairy Tail's doors are open, and so is my home."
Jude nodded, a small smile breaking through. "We'll take you up on that."
With final hugs and waves, Varion, Lucy, and Brandish headed down the path toward the carriage waiting to take them to the train station, the estate shrinking behind them as new adventures awaited in Magnolia.
The train ride from the Heartfilia estate to Magnolia was smooth, the compartment cozy with its cushioned seats and rattling rhythm lulling the group into a mix of chatter and naps. Lucy sat close to Varion, her shoulder brushing his as she pointed out landmarks through the window, her excitement bubbling over. After her talk with her mom, she'd steeled herself—determined to win his heart, to "worm her way in" like Layla advised. It felt a bit embarrassing, this new boldness, her cheeks warming at the thought of being so forward, but she pushed through, resolving to start small. No hesitation, or she'd regret it.
A few hours skipped by in a blur of landscapes—rolling hills giving way to denser forests, then the first glimpses of town spires. The train slowed into Magnolia station with a hiss of steam, the platform bustling with mages, vendors, and travelers. Lucy jumped up first, grabbing Varion's hand firmly and pulling him along as they disembarked. "Come on! I want to see everything!" she exclaimed, her ponytail bouncing, her grip warm and insistent, fingers interlacing with his as if it was the most natural thing.
Varion blushed lightly but let her lead, his free hand adjusting his cloak. "Alright, alright—slow down or you'll trip."
Brandish followed at her lazy pace, hands in her pockets, watching Lucy drag Varion toward the town gates with an amused chuckle. "She's like a puppy with a new toy," she muttered, shaking her head but smiling.
Magnolia unfolded before them in a whirlwind of sights—the cobblestone streets lined with colorful shops selling magic trinkets and fresh-baked goods, the scent of spiced meats wafting from food stalls, mages demonstrating spells for tips, and the distant spire of Kardia Cathedral towering over it all. Lucy's eyes widened at every turn, pulling Varion closer to point out a floating lantern display or a street performer juggling fireballs, leaning into his side at a crowded stall as she exclaimed, "Look at that! And that! Oh, Varion, it's even better than your letters!" Her hand never left his, fingers squeezing occasionally for emphasis.
Varion smiled softly, his heart warming at her joy, though the constant closeness left him a bit flustered. "Glad you like it. The guild's just up ahead—wait till you see that."
Brandish trailed behind, her lazy smirk growing as she watched Lucy's affectionate gestures—leaning into Varion's side at a crowded stall, her hand never leaving his. "Subtle," she teased under her breath, amused at her friend's boldness.
Varion, Lucy, and Brandish approached the Fairy Tail guild doors, the familiar emblem looming above. Varion pushed the doors open, and the scene inside hit them like a wave of noise and chaos, a full-blown brawl raging in the center of the hall. Tables flipped, mugs flying, mages shouting encouragement or insults. At the heart of it all, Mira and Erza were locked in their first real fight, finally clashing after days of simmering rivalry, Mira's demonic arm partially transformed, swinging a dark energy blast that Erza countered with a requipped sword, sparks flying as they butted heads and traded blows. "Take that, armor freak!" Mira yelled. "Bossy witch!" Erza shot back.
The hot-tempered boys were in the mix too, Natsu breathing fire at Gray's ice shields, "Take this, ice stripper!" Gray retorting with "cool off, flame-brain!" Sting and Gajeel paired up, Sting's light fists clashing with Gajeel's iron clubs in a flurry of punches and grunts. They were too distracted to notice the arrivals, lost in the frenzy.
Off to the side, the more relaxed or innocent guild members watched from safety, Wendy, Lisanna, and Elfman huddled together with Levy and Cana, munching snacks like it was a show. Lisanna giggled, "They're at it again!" Elfman sniffled, "S-So intense…" Levy took notes in her book, Cana sipping ale with a smirk. And varion spotted rouge close by reading a book.
Varion sighed, shaking his head as he led Lucy and Brandish inside, Lucy's hand still in his. "This is normal," he muttered.
He walked to the bar counter, where the bartender, a young woman with black hair , wiped down a glass with a smile. "Master Makarov in?" Varion asked.
She shook her head. "He's out on business should be back soon. Need something?"
Varion smiled. "No Thanks—just checking."
He turned and started walking towards the group . Before he could wave, Wendy noticed him, her eyes lighting up. "Varion!" she cried, rushing over and flinging herself into a hug, arms wrapping around his waist.
He hugged her back warmly, ruffling her blue hair with his free hand (the other still held by Lucy). "Hey, Wendy. Missed you too."
Rogue had wandered over quietly, and Varion pulled him into the hug as well, the boy returning it with a small, content smile.
Wendy pulled back slightly, her eyes lighting up as she spotted Lucy beside Varion. "Lucy! Hi! I remember you from—"
Her words trailed off as her gaze dropped to their linked hands, Varion's fingers intertwined with Lucy's. She looked between the two, her small brow furrowing in confusion. Then, without a word, she latched back onto Varion's leg, wrapping her arms around it tightly. From her point of view, it was a fearsome glare, her eyes narrowed, cheeks puffed out in determination, but to everyone else, it was adorable, like a kitten trying to look fierce. She mumbled under her breath, "Mine…" while staring up at Lucy with unblinking intensity.
Lucy sweat-dropped, her eyes widening at the cute display, a nervous laugh escaping her. "Y-Yes, he is yours!" she said quickly, surprising Wendy, who blinked in confusion.
Lucy waved her closer with her free hand, leaning down to whisper in Wendy's ear so the others couldn't hear. "He's your big brother, Wendy. But I'm not interested in your position as best little sister, I'm aiming for a position a little different. So no competition between us, okay?"
Wendy's eyes widened in understanding, her glare softening. She nodded rapidly, a small smile breaking through. "Okay!"