Earlier when Issei and his party were at the beach.
Fairy Tail Guild, Magnolia
The Fairy Tail guild hall was alive in its usual way as rowdy laughter rolled across the rafters, tankards clinking together, cards slapping down on tabletops, and the low hum of magic crackling here and there. With Natsu and his usual whirlwind of chaos gone on vacation, the place felt… calmer. Not quiet but much peaceful.
At the bar, Mirajane moved with practiced ease, polishing a glass with her usual bright smile. Elfman was nearby doing Elfman things, talking loudly about being "manly" while simultaneously trying to help by stacking chairs and somehow making it look like a workout.
It was then that the front doors creaked open.
A few heads turned as Karasuba stepped inside, her long silver hair catching the light as her presence as always was sharp and unmistakable even without drawing her blade as if a knife was pointed directly to their neck. At her side walked the familiar, small, purple-haired girl holding her hand tightly. Sakura looked around happily with bright curiosity as she always thought that most of these weird uncles were pretty funny in their chaotic behavior.
Behind the bar, Mirajane Strauss looked up—and immediately lit up.
"Oh! Karasuba! And Sakura!" Mirajane called cheerfully, waving a hand. "You're back already?"
Sakura's face broke into a wide smile, practically vibrating with enthusiasm. "Mira-nee-chan!" She chirped, waving back with both hands before remembering she was still holding Karasuba's.
"Yo." Karasuba blinked once, quietly amused then allowed herself a small smirk as she guided Sakura closer to the bar. "Seems quieter without your resident fire hazard," She noted dryly.
Mirajane laughed softly, but her eyes flicked just slightly toward the door again like she expected another person to follow. "You have no idea how nice that is." Then she leaned forward slightly, lowering her voice with a shy tilt of her head. "So…" She said, doing her best to sound casual. "Um… is Issei coming by later?"
It was almost convincing. Almost.
A faint blush bloomed on Mirajane's cheeks right after she asked, like her own body betrayed her faster than her brain could recover.
Sakura's expression immediately crumpled into a pout, clearly dissatisfied. "Mama and Papa went to the beach…" She pouted, cheeks puffing, her little fists balled up. "And they didn't take me! I wanted to go too…"
Karasuba paused, then gently rested a hand on Sakura's head, rubbing slow circles ruffling her hair. "I'm sure they'll bring you next time. Don't start a war."
Mirajane blinked. "The beach?" Her expression fell in exaggerated disappointment as Mirajane's shoulders sagged. "Wait—they went on vacation without telling me?" She then tried to laugh it off, but the pout she made looked painfully genuine. "That's so unfair…"
Karasuba shrugged, unapologetic. "Tickets were won in a raffle by Tamamo. Only ten." She smirked faintly. "I was offered one. But I didn't feel like being trapped somewhere 'relaxing.'"
Mirajane sighed dramatically. "Ugh… lucky…"
It was then that Karasuba remembered why she was here as Gorou and Miki had asked her to take Sakura to her lessons with Levy while they did their own things. "Alright little one. It's about time you head out for your class." Karasuba says as she turned to Sakura and gave her a little push.
Sakura brightened a little as she remembered something important. "Right! I'm going to see Levy-sensei today!"
Mirajane perked up a little. "Oh! Levy's lesson, today?"
"That's right," Karasuba said. "Gorou and Miki asked me to walk her here."
Sakura then turned to Mirajane and bowed, just a little clumsily. "Bye, Mira-nee-chan! I'll be back later!"
"Have fun!" Mirajane said warmly. "And study hard! Levy's probably already in the library."
Sakura scampered off toward the library area. Politely saying hello to various members and the old master, her hair swayed behind her as she disappeared down the hall where Levy usually taught her lessons.
Karasuba watched her go, arms folding loosely over her chest. For a moment, she simply stood there, the noise of the guild washing over her.
"Mira! We need another round!" Came the voice of Macao.
"And food!" This was followed by Wakabe.
Mirajane snapped back into waitress mode instantly. "Coming right up!" She gave Karasuba an apologetic smile. "Sorry! Work calls."
Karasuba waved her off. "Do your thing."
Mirajane was quickly pulled away by a group of thirsty mages calling for drinks, leaving Karasuba alone near the edge of the hall.
She exhaled slowly. 'Great. Now what?' She had time to kill and wished she could do a quest. But she didn't know how long Sakura class would take. She would hate to make Sakura wait here, in the case that she didn't finish whatever the quest was about.
Her gaze drifted toward the library door, then away again. '…This is boring.'
And then—
"Oi! Swordswoman!"
Karasuba turned her head just in time to see Cana Alberona lounging at a table, one boot up on a chair, a giant barrel already half-empty in her hand. Her grin was sharp, lazy, and inviting.
"You look bored," Cana said, lifting a mug. "Care to have a drink with me?"
Karasuba stared at her for a long second. "Beats waiting around doing nothing," She muttered and took a seat.
Cana's grin widened. "That's what I like to hear!" She then gave her a filled mug.
—------------------------
A few mugs of beer later…
"…And then I told that idiot he'd regret doubting me!" Cana laughed, slamming her empty mug down.
Karasuba downed her own mug without flinching. "Pathetic. That barely counts as a story."
"HA!"Cana slapped the table. She then leaned in, eyes glittering with chaos. "Hey! Want to make it a competition."
Karasuba blinked. "A competition?"
Cana pointed at her mug like it was a sacred relic. "Let's see who can outdrink who."
Karasuba stared at her. Then looked at her mug. Then back at Cana. "…You want to compete with me?"
Cana's grin sharpened. "What you don't think you can handle more than me?"
Karasuba raised an eyebrow and scoffed. "As if."
A dangerous silence followed.
Then—
"MIRA! ANOTHER ROUND!" Cana shouted at once.
Mirajane looked up from the bar. "Hm?"
"Bring us more drinks," Cana announced like a queen making a decree. "A LOT MORE."
Mirajane blinked, then smiled nervously. "Cana, are you sure—?"
"YES."
Mirajane glanced at Karasuba like she was silently asking are you going to survive this?
Karasuba raised her mug in response, expression unreadable.
Mirajane sighed, already reaching for bottles. "Alright… but please don't break anything."
Cana slammed her mug down. "ROUND ONE!"
A cluster of nearby guild members turned their heads. A few wandered over out of curiosity.
—-----------------
Within minutes, the table was stacked with empty mugs. Cana leaned back, cheeks flushed, laughter echoing as Karasuba matched her drink for drink, her expression unreadable, posture perfectly steady.
The surrounding guildmates began to notice.
"Are they… competing?"
"Is Karasuba even human?"
"CHUG! CHUG! CHUG!"
The chant spread like wildfire.
Karasuba tipped her mug back again, setting it down with surgical precision. Cana followed suit—then wobbled.
"…Still standing," Karasuba said flatly.
Cana laughed, swaying. "You're insane… I like you."
The guild erupted in cheers as another round was poured, Mirajane watching with equal parts worry and amusement.
Somewhere in the back of her mind, Karasuba vaguely wondered if Issei would approve. Then she quickly dismissed the thought.
'He's at the beach,' she reminded herself. 'And I'm winning this.'
And in the heart of Fairy Tail, under roaring cheers and clinking mugs, the battle for which liver will survive raged on, loud, ridiculous, and entirely on brand as various other members decided to join the two women even while knowing that they wouldn't be able to reach their numbers.
—---------------------------
Meanwhile at the Library
The Fairy Tail library was usually one of the quietest places in the guild, a sanctuary of tall shelves, and the comforting scent of old parchment. Sunlight filtered in through the high windows, dust motes drifting lazily in the air.
So when Sakura stepped inside, she immediately sensed that something was… off.
Near one of the long reading tables stood Jet and Droy, both stiff with tension, their eyes fixed with unmistakable hostility towards the tall, spiky, black-haired man leaning against a bookshelf. His body was dotted with metal piercings and his posture was casual but there was a guarded edge to him. Strangely he gave the same vibe as her father and Mister Natsu.
Between them stood Levy McGarden, arms outstretched, clearly trying to keep the peace.
"Jet! Droy! I said knock it off!" Levy hissed in a whisper that still somehow carried authority. "This is the library!"
"He doesn't belong here," Jet muttered, fists clenched.
"Yeah," Droy added darkly. "Not after what he did."
Sakura blinked, confused. She looked from the angry pair, to Levy's stressed expression, and finally to the pierced man, who noticed her staring and immediately straightened, looking oddly uncomfortable.
"Um…" Sakura raised her hand timidly. "What's… going on?"
Every voice in the library died instantly.
Levy flinched. "S-Sakura! Ah—uh—nothing! Nothing at all!" She laughed nervously, turning to glare at her teammates. "They're just being dumb. That's all."
Jet sputtered. "Levy—!"
"Your being dumb," Levy repeated firmly, eyes narrowed.
Droy crossed his arms but backed off with a huff.
Levy exhaled in relief, then turned back to Sakura with a gentle smile. "Sorry you had to see that. Come on—let me introduce you." She then gestured to the spiky-haired man. "This is Gajeel Redfox. He's… a new member." Levy says this looking unsure.
Gajeel simply scratched the back of his head and looked away. "Oi… kid."
Sakura tilted her head, still confused but wanting to be polite, she bowed slightly, just like Mama had taught her. "Nice to meet you, Mister Gajeel. I'm Sakura."
Gajeel quickly stiffened as he felt awkward. "…Nice t' meet ya too," He replied gruffly, cheeks faintly tinted. There was no hostility in his voice, just more awkwardness. A very unfamiliar feeling for him. He then glanced at Levy. "So… who's the kid?"
Levy brightened, happy to move the conversation along. "Sakura's my student. I've been entrusted by her parents to teach her magic." Then she added, very casually, "She's also the daughter of Issei and Miya, the woman that defeated you when you tried to attack the guild ."
The effect was immediate as Gajeel froze, remembering the long purple haired woman in a Miko outfit. At how, with only a wooden sword, she had completely bested him .
"Her?" He repeated slowly.
"Yeah. The one who absolutely demolished you and made you run away." Levy nodded saying this with a smile, knowing the effect it will have on Gajeel.
Jet snorted. "Effortlessly."
Droy nodded. "Yeah! She didn't even break a sweat."
Gajeel snapped back to life. "Oi! I didn't lose!" He crossed his arms defensively. "That was simply a tactical retreat!"
Levy raised an eyebrow. "That's not what she said. She said you ran."
"…Strategically," Gajeel muttered.
Sakura's confusion deepened. "Wait…" She looked between them. "Mister Gajeel fought Mama Miya?"
Levy winced. "Ah…"
"And…" Sakura continued slowly, "He tried to destroy Fairy Tail?" The words came out small. Unaccusing. Just genuinely confused.
The library felt heavier.
Gajeel looked at the child, really looking this time. "…Yeah," he admitted quietly. "I did. Back when I was with Phantom Lord."
Sakura simply looked him straight in the eyes, not seeing any cruelty. "But… you're here now."
Gajeel nodded. "Yeah. I am."
There was a pause.
Then Sakura smiled. "Oh. Okay." She nodded once, decisively. "If you're here, that means you're trying to be better. Papa says that's what matters."
Levy's eyes softened immediately.
Jet and Droy exchanged glances, their anger wavering.
Gajeel blinked. "…Tch." He turned away, crossing his arms again. "Yer old man's weird."
"But he's really kind," Sakura said proudly.
Gajeel huffed. "…Yeah. Guess so."
Levy let out a quiet laugh, tension finally draining from the room. "Alright then. Class is starting. Sakura, grab your notebook."
Sakura beamed. "Yes, Levy-sensei!"
As the little girl scampered toward the table, Gajeel watched her go—then glanced at Levy. "…She's… not what I expected."
Levy smiled. "Neither are you."
—----------------------------
Two Hours Later, Fairy Tail Guild Hall
The doors that connected the library to the main hall of Fairy Tail creaked open.
Sakura stepped inside first, humming happily after her lesson in a good mood, hugging her little notebook against her chest while Levy chatted beside her about how well she'd done today. Jet and Droy followed like loyal shadows, still glaring now and then at Gajeel, who kept his hands in his pockets and pretended not to care.
Then they froze. The air smelled strongly of booze.
The guild hall looked like a battlefield after a war as tables were overturned, chairs scattered, tankards rolling slowly across the floor. Mages were sprawled everywhere in various states of unconsciousness, some face-down on tables, others hugging barrels, a few muttering nonsense in their sleep hanging off chairs, face-down on the floor with mugs still clutched in their hands. Someone had somehow fallen asleep standing up against a pillar. Another had used a jacket as a blanket and was snoring loud enough to rattle the windows.
"..." None who were sober could believe the sight.
Near the bar, Mirajane was the only one moving as she calmly wiped down counters and stepped over bodies with the tired grace of someone who'd cleaned up Fairy Tail's messes her entire life. It was then that her eyes landed on Levy and Sakura and she gave them a smile that was warm… and also carried the dead exhaustion of a saint.
"Oh! Welcome back," Mira said pleasantly. "Did class go well?"
Levy stared at the destruction. "…What happened?"
Mirajane Strauss sighed as she continued cleaning, clearly exhausted but still smiling gently. "A drinking contest."
Levy turned slowly. "Between…?"
Mirajane gestured with her chin.
At one of the few tables still upright sat Karasuba as she continued drinking.
A massive mug was clenched in her hand, her cheeks completely flushed red, her silver hair slightly messy, posture slouched but her eyes were still open, barely.
"Hhhh… heh…" Karasuba hiccupped. "Lightweights…"
Mirajane leaned closer to Levy and murmured, "She's been like that for ten minutes. She refuses to pass out." Mirajane then pointed at the over contestant.
Levy following Mirajane's finger was met with Cana, who was snoring loud enough to rattle nearby mugs, draped face-down over the wood, a mug still in hand like she'd died clinging to her greatest love. A small crowd of unconscious guild members surrounded her like fallen soldiers including the Guild Master.
"…She won," Levy's mouth opened. Then closed. And opened again. "And… the rest of the guild…?"
"They joined," Mira said simply, like she was describing the weather. "And it escalated."
Sakura stared wide-eyed. "…Karasuba-san?"
Karasuba's head snapped toward the small voice. Her eyes focused with great effort. Then a smile spread across her face, lazy, unguarded, and completely unlike her usual intense seriousness."Ohhh… hey, kid…" She slurred, raising her mug in greeting. "You… done with book stuff?"
Sakura nodded slowly. "Y-Yes…"
Karasuba grinned proudly. "Good… good… we go home then…"
She tried to stand. But she did not succeed as her legs tangled immediately, and she toppled sideways—only to be caught by the table, which cracked ominously under the impact.
Mirajane winced. "Oh dear… Be careful!"
Karasuba waved a hand, hiccuping. "I am… graceful…"
Sakura gasped. "Karasuba-san, are you okay?!"
"I'm great," Karasuba insisted, attempting to take another step. She instead tripped over absolutely nothing and nearly faceplanted again. "Floor's… just aggressive…"
Levy pinched the bridge of her nose. "Yeah… that explains it." She glanced at the unconscious Cana, then back at Karasuba, still technically conscious. "…You outdrank Cana Alberona," Levy muttered. "I'm impressed. And terrified."
Karasuba smirked weakly. "Told ya… hic… easy…"
Sakura's eyes stayed wide with a kind of innocent awe. "Levy-sensei! Why is everyone sleeping and what happened to Karasuba-san?"
Levy pinched the bridge of her nose. "Because adults are stupid sometimes." Levy then sighed, then knelt beside Sakura. "Okay. New plan. I'll take you home, Sakura. Karasuba clearly can't escort you like this."
Sakura hesitated, then nodded. "Okay…"
Karasuba gasped like she'd been betrayed. "I can… take her…" She tried to step again. But she immediately stumbled sideways and grabbed the bar like it was a lifeline.
Levy gave her a flat stare. "No you can't."
Karasuba squinted at Levy as if trying to solve a complicated equation. "You… doubt me…"
"Yes," Levy said instantly. "With my whole heart." Levy then turned to the boys. "Jet, Droy, Gajeel. Can you help carry Karasuba back?"
Mirajane's eyes widened slightly. "Um… are you sure that's safe?"
Jet swallowed. "She is kind of scary…"
Mirajane's eyes widened and she held up both hands. "W-Wait, I really don't think that's safe."
Droy blinked. "Why not?"
Mirajine with full seriousness and her voice lowered like she was sharing a terrifying secret. "Because she might… um… accidentally hurt you."
Before Droy could answer, Gajeel snorted loudly. "Tch. Please. She's drunk. What's she gonna do—fall on us?"
Mirajane opened her mouth. "Gajeel, wait—"
Too late.
Gajeel stepped forward and grabbed Karasuba by the arm. "C'mon, silverhead. Let's—" He never finished his sentence.
Karasuba's eyes snapped open—sharp, focused, terrifyingly lucid for half a second.
"Don't… touch me…" She said, voice thick with alcohol and authority.
Gajeel blinked. "…What?"
And then Karasuba moved and there was a blur of motion.
The next thing anyone knew, Gajeel went flying backward, smashing clean through a table and skidding across the floor.
"…WHAT THE—?!" Dory shouted.
Levy's eyes went wide. "GAJEEL!"
Jet screamed, "SHE'S STILL A MONSTER!"
Gajeel groaned as he rolled onto his side, his body had reflexively turned metallic just in time to avoid serious damage. "She—she hit me!"
Karasuba swayed on her feet, her sword, now on her hand, pointing shakily at him. "Rude… hic… manners…"
Mirajane stared in horror. "I told you it wasn't safe!"
Levy stared. "…She's drunk and still doing that?"
Gajeel pushed himself up, glaring. "Oi! That didn't count! I wasn't ready!" He charged again.
Karasuba tilted her head, swaying, blinking at him like she couldn't quite believe he was still moving. Then she smiled. "Ohhh… you wanna… fight?" She slurred, and somehow that was the most terrifying thing she'd said all day.
Mirajane immediately tried to intervene. "Karasuba, sweetheart, we're not fighting—"
Too late. What followed could only be described as a one-sided lesson.
Karasuba moved like a nightmare, unsteady, unbalanced, and yet impossibly precise. Every swing she threw landed exactly where it hurt most. Gajeel blocked, hardened, turned his limbs into weapons and still got sent crashing into walls, tables, and barrels.
"Why… won't… you… stay… DOWN?!" Gajeel shouted as he was slammed into the floor again.
Karasuba squinted at him. "You're… loud…" She simply raised her sword again and was about to swing before tripping on absolutely nothing.
Gajeel feeling even more ridiculed stomped forward, irritation flaring. "Fine. If that's how you want it." His skin rippled and turned to iron, metal plates forming over his arms and chest. "IRON—"
But Karasuba blurred forward again and Gajeel barely raised his guard in time.
WHAM.
Her sword struck his chest like a hammer. Even with metal skin, the impact launched him backward, boots dragging trenches in spilled ale and a massive cut was formed with blood spilled out.
Gajeel's eyes widened in pure disbelief. 'No way…' He planted his feet, snarling. "You think you can toss me around just because you're—"
Karasuba stepped in again, wobbling slightly, then snapped a knee toward his midsection.
Gajeel blocked.
She immediately followed with a sloppy-looking slash that was not sloppy at all when it slammed into his jaw.
Gajeel's head whipped sideways as he staggered, and the only reason he didn't crumple was because his metal body absorbed just enough of it to keep his head from being cut off.
Levy looked like she was about to faint. "WHY IS SHE THIS STRONG DRUNK?!"
Mirajane had both hands over her mouth. "Oh no, oh no…"
Sakura, meanwhile, stared with wide eyes. "Karasuba-san is… scary."
Gajeel tried to counter, swinging a metal fist.
Karasuba ducked—almost falling over—then somehow used the stumble as a spin and swept his legs.
Gajeel hit the floor with a heavy CLANG. His eyes bulged. "…WHAT?!"
Karasuba placed a foot on his chest, wobbling while she tried to look intimidating and somehow still succeeded. Her sword was dangerously pointed at his neck. "Stay… down…" She warned, then hiccuped. "…Or I'll… do… the thing…"
Gajeel glared up at her, furious and humiliated. "…What thing?"
Karasuba leaned in, eyes half closed like she was about to reveal a sacred technique. "…I'unno," She admitted, then frowned, like that answer upset her too.
Levy threw her arms up. "Okay! That's it! Everyone stop!"
She stomped forward and slammed both hands on the floor.
"SOLID SCRIPT: METAL BIND!"
Glowing letters exploded into the air and wrapped around Karasuba like luminous chains. The silver-haired woman blinked at them, then pouted. "Unfair…" she mumbled.
Mirajane let out the biggest breath of relief of her life. "Thank goodness."
Gajeel sat up slowly, rubbing his jaw, eyes narrowed. "Tch… I was winning."
Levy stared at him with dead disbelief. "You were on the floor."
"That was a tactical—"
"DON'T YOU START!" Levy snapped.
Karasuba froze mid-motion, blinking. "…Levy?" She slurred.
"Yes! Yes, it's me!" Levy said quickly. "We're going home. No more fighting."
Karasuba stared for a long second—then her shoulders sagged. "…Fine…" And then, like her body finally remembered it was drunk, her eyes rolled slightly. She slumped forward, still held up by Levy's magic chains.
Mirajane wiped her forehead. "Alright. New rule: Karasuba is not allowed to drink with Cana ever again."
From the table, Cana's unconscious body twitched like she'd heard her name but then resumed snoring.
Levy sighed, exhaustion settling in. "Jet. Droy. Help me carry Karasuba."
Jet swallowed nervously. "She… won't kill us now, right?"
Levy glanced at the glowing chains. "…Probably not."
Droy nodded solemnly. "If I die, remember that I died bravely."
Levy groaned. "Just pick her up!"
Gajeel lay on the floor, staring up at the ceiling in so much pain. "…I hate this guild."
Levy exhaled deeply, rubbing her temples. "Alright. Let's get everyone home before something else explodes."
Sakura looked back once more at Karasuba, eyes wide with awe. "…She's really amazing," she whispered as this was the first time fighting someone other than her papa and moms.
Mirajane smiled tiredly. "That she is, sweetheart."
And in the ruins of Fairy Tail's main hall, amidst spilled drinks and unconscious mages, the aftermath of Karasuba's victory settled in—loud, messy, and entirely unforgettable.
—------------------------------
Meanwhile outside the Lakeside Hyoudou Mansion
The late afternoon sun hung low over the massive lake, its golden reflection rippling softly across the water. The wooden pier, built by hand and magic creaked gently as the breeze passed over it, carrying the faint scent of fresh water and pine from the surrounding forest.
At the edge of the pier sat Gorou Hyoudou, a fishing rod resting comfortably in his hands. His posture was relaxed, shoulders loose, eyes half-lidded as he watched the bobber drift lazily on the surface.
Beside him sat Totomaru, his long two toned hair behind him while also holding a rod, his movements far more careful, as if he still wasn't fully convinced he was allowed to enjoy something so mundane.
"This is nice," Gorou said after a while, breaking the comfortable silence. "And very peaceful."
Totomaru nodded. "It is." He hesitated, then added honestly, "I didn't expect… this. After everything."
Gorou chuckled softly. "Life's full of surprises. Believe me, I know." He then vividly remembered the first time Issei came home bringing three women along with his new granddaughter. Opening Miki and his eyes and drastically changing their life and their world view.
They sat like that for a bit, the gentle splash of fish and distant birdsong filling the air.
Totomaru glanced sideways. "I meant what I said earlier," he said quietly. "You, Miki and little Sakura… you're good students. While not the most talented, you and Miki are patient."
Gorou smiled faintly. "Coming from a professional mage, I'll take that as high praise."
Totomaru snorted. "Compared to your son's wives?" He shook his head. "Absolute nightmares. Talented nightmares but still."
Gorou laughed outright. "Yeah… that tracks."
Totomaru allowed himself a small, genuine smile. "Still, I'm glad I can be useful. Teaching feels…nice."
Gorou didn't respond right away. He simply watched the water, then nodded once. "That's how it starts."
—---------------------------
A short distance away, on the grassy shore near the water, Miki Hyoudou knelt beside a truly ridiculous sight.
The massive black wyvern Kuromaru lay partially curled near the lake, wings folded neatly at his sides, tail swaying lazily. His enormous head rested on the ground as Miki gently brushed her hand along the smooth, dark scales of his neck.
"There, there… you're such a good boy," She murmured, still sounding faintly amazed at herself.
Kuromaru let out a deep, content rumble, eyes half-closed in pure satisfaction.
Miki laughed softly. "I still can't believe you're real," she admitted. "A dragon. Just… here. In my backyard."
Kuromaru lifted his head slightly and nudged her with his snout, careful and gentle despite his size.
"I know, I know," she said, patting him. "You're smart too. Smarter than some people I know."
The wyvern huffed proudly.
Miki glanced back toward the pier, where Gorou and Totomaru were quietly fishing together. A small smile crossed her face.
"This is my life now," She thought with mirth. "Magic, dragons, foxgirls… and somehow, it all feels normal."
She returned her attention to Kuromaru, scratching under his chin. "You keep watching over the house while they're gone, alright? You're the big guardian now."
Kuromaru straightened slightly, chest puffing out as he gave a low, resolute growl, almost like a vow.
Miki smiled warmly. "Good. I knew I could count on you." But it was then that Miki noticed movement along the forest path to Magnolia.
Her gaze shifted instinctively, and her expression softened the moment she spotted little Sakura, her small hand clasped tightly in Levy's. Relief washed over her, only to stall as her eyes moved further down the line.
"…Huh?"
Her brows knit together in confusion.
Behind Levy and Sakura, Jet and Dory staggered forward, struggling under the weight of a very familiar silver-haired swordswoman draped between them. Karasuba's arms hung loosely over their shoulders, her head lolling slightly, a deep crimson blush plastered across her face. Her usually sharp, piercing eyes were unfocused, her posture unsteady even while being carried.
Trailing behind them with a scowl and several very noticeable bruises was a tall, long black-haired youth, with metal piercings glinting along his face and body while carrying Karasuba's long sword. His boots scraped irritably against the ground as he muttered under his breath, clearly unhappy about… something.
Miki blinked once. Then twice. "…What happened?" She asked carefully, already bracing herself.
As if summoned by her confusion, Gorou and Totomaru stepped away from the pier, their casual fishing expressions shifting into curiosity as they took in the approaching group.
Levy, still holding Sakura's hand, offered an apologetic smile. "Uh… Karasuba might've had a little too much fun at the guild," she explained sheepishly. "There was a drinking contest. Things escalated."
Miki let out a slow sigh but instead of frustration, it was one of acceptance. "I see…" She rubbed her temple lightly, then relaxed. "As long as nobody's seriously hurt."
At that exact moment, the pierced youth let out a disgruntled huff. "Tch."
Miki's eyes flicked to him. "…And you are?"
The boy didn't answer—just scowled harder.
Jet adjusted his grip. "She, uh… knocked him through a table."
"Three times. He was losing badly." Dory added helpfully with a smile
Gajeel snarled. "I wasn't losing! I just wasn't expecting a drunk swordswoman to fight like a damn monster!"
Karasuba hiccupped softly, mumbling something utterly unintelligible.
Miki winced sympathetically. "That… does sound like her." She then smiled gently and gestured toward the mansion. "Well, thank you for bringing them all the way here. Would you mind taking Karasuba inside? She'll need somewhere safe to sleep this off."
Levy nodded quickly. "No problem. Jet, Dory—let's get her settled."
As they moved past, Totomaru's gaze met Gajeel's and the air shifted.
The two former Phantom Lord mages stared at each other in silence—one a disgraced fire mage turned prisoner, the other a reformed Iron Dragon Slayer still carrying the weight of his past.
"…Huh," Totomaru muttered. "Didn't expect to see you here."
"Tch. Same," Gajeel replied, arms crossed.
Gorou, completely oblivious to the tension, lifted Sakura easily into his arms and smiled warmly at the mages. "You two know each other?" He asked pleasantly. "If you've got time, why don't you come inside? Miki will be making dinner."
Levy's eyes widened. "Oh! That's really kind, but we don't want to impose—"
"Nonsense," Miki said with a warm laugh as she turned back toward them. "Just because Tamamo and Miya aren't here doesn't mean I can't cook. Besides, Sakura's had a long day."
Sakura perked up immediately. "Grandma's food is yummy!"
That sealed it.
Levy smiled, unable to refuse. "Then… thank you."
As they all headed toward the mansion, Gajeel glanced once more at Karasuba being hauled inside, then at Totomaru walking beside Gorou. "…Huh," he muttered again.
—------------------------
Lakeside Hyoudou Mansion, Evening
The doors to the mansion closed softly behind them, shutting out the cool evening breeze and replacing it with warmth, lamplight, and the comforting smell of home.
Gorou adjusted Sakura in his arms instinctively, her small weight familiar and grounding as she rested her head against his shoulder. She was quiet now, unusually so, her earlier excitement dulled by exhaustion and the strange events of the day. Her fingers curled into the fabric of his shirt, seeking reassurance without saying a word.
Miki glanced over her shoulder at the group entering behind them. Jet and Dory staggered slightly under Karasuba's weight, both visibly tense, sweat beading on their foreheads as they carried the silver-haired swordswoman like she was an unexploded bomb.
Karasuba, for her part, was… blissfully unbothered. Her cheeks were flushed a deep crimson, her silver hair was slightly disheveled, one arm hanging limply as she muttered something incoherent under her breath. "…Tch… lightweight…" She slurred, despite being the one unable to walk.
Miki pinched the bridge of her nose. "She really caused trouble, didn't she?"
Levy winced apologetically, still holding Sakura's hand. "Um… yeah. A little. But she technically won the drinking contest."
Jet snorted. "She didn't just win. From what we saw, she crushed Cana."
Dory nodded solemnly. "I've never seen Cana passed out like that."
From behind them, a low metallic scoff sounded. "Tch. All that for nothing," Gajeel muttered, rubbing a bruise forming along his jaw. "Next time I'm not grabbin' some drunk swordswoman just 'cause she looks harmless."
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Karasuba was carefully deposited onto a couch in the living room, where she immediately rolled onto her side and hugged a pillow like it was a treasured weapon. "…warm…" she mumbled.
Jet and Dory backed away instantly.
"Okay," Jet said. "Mission complete."
Miki rolled up her sleeves, already moving toward the kitchen. "Sit. All of you. Dinner will be ready soon."
Levy blinked. "You're… really okay with this?"
Miki glanced back over her shoulder with a small smile. "You brought Sakura home safely. That's more than enough."
Gajeel scratched the back of his neck, clearly uncomfortable. "…This place is weird."
Totomaru snorted. "You're telling me."
The table slowly filled. Plates were passed around. Steam rose from freshly cooked food, the clatter of utensils breaking the lingering tension.
Sakura ate quietly between Gorou and Levy, listening more than speaking, eyes drifting occasionally toward Karasuba, who was snoring softly in the background.
Levy leaned closer, lowering her voice. "She's… different when she's drunk."
Sakura nodded solemnly. "Mama Miya says everyone has a side they don't show."
That earned a soft laugh. But that ended as the two Ex-Phantom Lord members continued to stare at the other waiting for the other to speak out first.
"…So," Gorou said casually, lifting his cup as he noticed that the two acquaintances had trouble speaking up. "You two mentioned that you know each other."
Totomaru sighed quietly, then nodded. "Unfortunately."
Gajeel clicked his tongue. "Tch. Figures."
Levy immediately stiffened. "Uh—!"
"I'll explain to those that don't know." Totomaru said, raising a hand, signaling he'd continue. "After Phantom Lord fell," He began, voice calm but heavy, "I was captured. By them." He gestured vaguely toward where Karasuba was currently passed out.
Jet and Droy both sweatdropped instantly.
Levy forced a laugh. "C-Captured sounds a little harsh—"
"I was bound, interrogated, and wasn't given a choice," Totomaru continued flatly. "Death… or service."
Miki tilted her head. "You make it sound so grim."
Totomaru met her gaze politely. "Madam, your daughters-in-law are terrifying."
Sakura blinked. "Even Mama Miya?"
"Yes," Totomaru said immediately. "Especially Mama Miya."
Levy, Jet, and Droy exchanged looks, all three of them silently asking the same question: Is it really that bad?
Totomaru continued, voice gaining an odd mix of resignation and disbelief. "I was forced to teach magic. To this household." He took a sip of water, as if bracing himself. "They train like demons. No mercy. No breaks. 'Again' means until they collapse."
Jet whispered, "That… doesn't sound normal."
"It isn't," Totomaru agreed. "However—" He paused, glancing toward Gorou, Miki, and Sakura. "The husband, the child, and the parents are… reasonable. Shockingly so. They are the only voices of sanity in this house."
Sakura smiled proudly. "Grandpa and Grandma are nice."
Gorou chuckled. "We try."
Levy wiped her forehead. "I, uh… didn't realize you were living here."
Totomaru nodded. "I help around and teach."
Gajeel stared at him for a long moment, then scoffed. "Tch. Sounds like you got off easy."
Totomaru's eye twitched. "You were not chased through the forest at dawn for 'conditioning.'"
Levy, Jet, and Droy all sweatdropped again—harder this time.
"…Maybe it is bad," Jet muttered.
The tension shifted as all eyes turned to Gajeel.
"…What?" he snapped.
Gorou smiled kindly. "Levy mentioned you're part of Fairy Tail now."
Gajeel stiffened. "…Yeah," he said after a moment, scratching the back of his neck. "Old man Makarov Dreyar talked me into it."
Levy smiled gently. "You've been trying really hard."
"Tch. Don't say it like that," Gajeel grumbled. "I messed up. Bad. I know that." He looked down at his plate. "So I'm… making amends."
Totomaru studied him quietly. "And they accepted you?"
"Yeah," Gajeel said softly. "Some faster than others."
There was a pause.
Totomaru nodded once. "Then… perhaps you've chosen better than I did."
Gajeel snorted. "Don't get all wise on me." But the edge was gone.
Miki clapped her hands lightly. "Alright! That's enough heavy talk. Eat before the food gets cold."
The atmosphere slowly eased. Conversations drifted. Stories were shared, awkwardly at first, then more naturally. Even Gajeel stopped scowling long enough to actually eat.
Outside, the lake reflected the evening sky in shades of gold and violet.