For someone who hasn’t posted a chapter to any fanfic in quite some time, especially on fanfiction.net, I was pleasantly surprised to see I had a follow and favorite for myself, and from the same person, for Fata Donum...so thank you.
So after rereading Fata Donum today, I may have gotten inspired to write what I though would just be an epilogue. Turns out, it’ll be a mini series.
Fata Donum 1 Premise: Based off of aloosh_s's masterpiece found here on tumblr with the following description (written by illustrator herself but edited a bit by me):
"An AU where Zeref is a protective older brother of Natsu. He always takes an hour off from his tiring job to go take Natsu home after school, but he always finds his little brother crying while waiting outside. He would kneel down in front of him and ask him, with a warm smile, 'Why are you crying, Natsu?" "M-my…friends keep saying bad words about my pink hair…" Zeref would notice the kids in the distance laughing while eyeing Natsu, and his anger would start to snap, but he manages a way to hold it in. One day he decides to talk to his teacher…that is when he meets Mavis…"
Fata Donum 2 Premise: Continuing story of FD1, but not just them. Might a series of shorter type stories that all connect to FD1.
A/N: I am not sure how many chapters I am going to write. After thinking I had an outline set, I ended up combining what would have been two separate chapters (Natsu meeting Igneel's author and Zeira meeting one of Zeref's friends).
It was a normal day in Magnolia town. The sun was currently shining, but grey storm clouds were rolling in from the west, and the kids were just dismissed from school for winter break. The air was a bit cold and the local meteorologists were calling for a small snow storm, which made the children of the town excited even more for the upcoming holiday.
Mavis Vermillion, kindergarten teacher at Magnolia Elementary School, was making her way to her car with her bag of gifts from her students after tidying her classroom up for the break. Suddenly the boxes she was carrying was taken out of her hands.
"Oh Zeref. Thanks!" she replied after realizing who her savior was.
"It's not a problem. It's my job after all as a boyfriend." he teased and then leaned over to kiss her on her cheek.
She linked her arm into his as she carried her other bag.
"Where's Natsu?" she asked as they entered the office real quick to drop off her classroom keys and so she could sign out for the day.
"I told him to stay on the playground for a few minutes. I wanted to help you before we headed to our homes."
She nodded and smiled as she held the door for him exiting the building.
"What time were you thinking for dinner?"
"Well, we have a few days to decide, really, but he becomes an animal around four thirty and a beast by five." Zeref joked.
Mavis giggled at his description of his brother.
"Okay. Maybe four thirty will work then." she commented before giving him a quick peck on his cheek and then saying goodbye.
Zeref made sure she backed out of the spot she was in before heading back to the school's classroom and grabbing Natsu to head to the baby-sitter's house.
"Zeref?"
"Yes?"
"Why do I still go to the sitter's house when your girlfriend can watch me?"
"Because you need to limit your exposure to her. You still get crazy ideas in your head about me and her and she and I have only been dating for seven months." Zeref replied. "And you've always liked going to the sitter's house."
"I know. I just feel like it'd be better if I went to Mavis' house."
"Oh? You're on a first name basis with her now, are you?"
"Sorry, but she is your girlfriend now. And she's not my teacher anymore."
Zeref rolled his eyes and continued to drop him off. Then it was back to work as usual and then to pick him up again and go home.
"When is the new Igneel book coming out?" Natsu asked his brother once they walked into the living room.
"Next month I believe." Zeref replied. "I'll check the site later."
"Aw man! I was hoping I could get it for it for Christmas."
"You never know what Santa can get you." Zeref said nonchalantly with a smile. "Oh, but I do know there are new toys coming out too, all for the new animated movie that will be coming out."
"M- movie?" Natsu asked with a large toothy grin.
"Yup! Just heard about that too. Some big "to do" with the author and some company. They are making an animated movie, but it will be a direct to t.v. type movie. There may even be an animated series by April."
"THAT. IS. SO. AWESOME!" Natsu yelled as he ran around the room.
Zeref let out a small chuckle as he shook his head. Natsu ran upstairs to his room to play before dinner.
A few hours after dinner, Natsu was sleeping peacefully in his room while Zeref was busy online going through emails and having his Skype open. He received a notification of an incoming video call and accepted it.
"Are you there Zeref?" a voice asked softly.
"Ah. Hold on Mavis." he said as he started to close open windows down. "Sorry."
"It's fine." she said with a small giggle. "What were you doing?"
"E-mails. A lot of them."
"Can you talk?"
"Yes, they can wait. Mostly junk." he answered. "What's up?"
"Is Natsu sleeping?"
"Yeah, he crashed."
There was a small moment of silence before she spoke up.
"So, I just got off the phone with Zeira."
"And?" he curiously asked.
"She was wondering if the three of us wanted to go to Tenrou for the holiday. She's been bugging me for years to spend Christmas there. I've always declined."
"Umm. I don't see it as a problem. When did she want us there, and are there rooms?"
"Yes, to the rooms. She set two aside. And as soon as possible I think." Mavis answered.
Zeref nodded.
"Okay, let me call my boss real quick."
"Okay." she replied not really listening to his half of the conversation.
Zeref dialed Mr. Dreyar's phone and spoke with him quickly.
"My boss is okay with it, so I can go. I just have to bring my laptop just in case something pops up."
"Awesome! I'll let her know." Mavis excitedly commented. "How long do you think you can stay?"
"I'm not really worried about that at the moment. I'll pack for a week just in case. If I have to come back early, I will."
"And Natsu?"
"Uhh…I have no idea. We'll see when the time comes I guess."
She let out a small laugh realizing the predicament.
"Hey, has Natsu met the author yet?"
"Uhh..no, he hasn't. He will next month but he doesn't know that yet."
"How's that going to work?"
"He and I arranged for it as an autograph signing at a local bookstore here in town." Zeref answered and then got quiet. His phone buzzed and he looked at it puzzled.
"Who's texting you at this hour?" she asked.
"The infamous author." He joked. "Hold on. Just listen as I talk to him on speaker."
"Aye-aye!" she said with a joking salute.
Zeref called his friend.
"Hey Mard! What's up? And were your ears ringing?"
"Why would they be ringing?"
Zeref laughed.
"Mavis and I were just talking about you. That's why." Zeref answered before continuing. "Why the text to call you?"
"Because I just got off the phone with my agent. He's booked me a week's stay on Tenrou Island for mental prep before the new launch and book signing tour that he convinced me to go on."
"Really? Where are you staying?"
"Err…at the Red Lizard Inn I think."
"Cool. I'm actually going there as well with Natsu and Mavis for a week or so tomorrow."
"OOhh…wait…"
"Her friend's father owns the place. She asked us to come a little while ago and put aside two rooms for us. Don't get any nasty ideas in your head." Zeref stated slightly embarrassed as he looked at his screen. He could see Mavis trying not to laugh out loud.
"Oh. That's cool. Can you bring me to Hargeon then as well? I'm currently in Magnolia staying at the Fairy Tail Inn. I'm supposed to check-in tomorrow in Tenrou."
Zeref looked to Mavis who nodded.
"Sure. I'll pick you up before Mavis then since it's better. Say nine in the morning?"
"That works for me. Will they be okay with it?"
"I'm sure they will. This just moves up Natsu meeting you before the set date next month."
"I can play dumb for a month and not tell him if you can."
"Or we can arrange something while on Tenrou. Doesn't matter either way. It was going to be a belated Christmas gift anyway."
"Sounds good. See you in the morning. I gotta go." Mard replied and then hung up.
Zeref looked at his phone for a few seconds before putting it face down on his desk and getting back to the video call with Mavis.
"Mard sounds…nice." Mavis stated breaking up the new, and slightly awkward silence.
"He is." Zeref replied. "I'm just sorry it's taken me this long to introduce you two."
"It's fine." she said with a giggle. "Maybe the four of us can figure out how to surprise Natsu with him being Igneel's creator."
Zeref's attention was snapped to the screen.
"Four of us?"
"Yeah…you, me, him, and Zeira."
"Oh right. Just as long as nothing happens in the car."
"You and I both know your brother. He'll be asleep once I get in the car." she responded. "All you have to do is keep quiet until I get in."
"Ten four." he replied. "Let me log off and shut down so I can pack for Natsu and I. I'll bring some of his gifts with us and bury them in the trunk."
"And write a letter to Santa explaining where you are going."
"Ah! Good idea." he said with a smile.
After saying their good nights and such, they both decided to pack. Zeref quietly and carefully went into Natsu's room and pulled out clothes for a week's stay on Tenrou.
In the morning, Zeref woke up earlier than he had planned and loaded the car with some presents and the luggage. He hoped he left enough room for Mavis's and Mard's luggage, but he wasn't too worried. He woke up Natsu for breakfast, got him showered, and dressed and then started to head out of the house.
"But where are we going?" he whined. "It's too cold to go camping."
"Who says we're going camping?"
"The car is packed."
"Ah, yes, well there are other places to go for a week."
"B-but Christmas! And Santa!"
"Relax Natsu. I left a letter telling him where to find you. Don't worry."
"Really? Do you think he'll be able to go there then?"
"He stops there anyway. I just asked him to bring your presents to where we will be." Zeref answered as Natsu climbed into his seat.
"Who are we picking up, anyway?"
"My friend, Mard, and Ms. Vermillion."
"YAY!" Natsu said with a devlish smile.
Zeref ignored the look in Natsu's eyes as he buckled himself up and drove off.
It was a semi-quiet ride to Hargeon with Mavis and Mard in the car, and all because the adults didn't want to wake up the sleeping child.
Zeref dropped the group off with the luggage and then found the parking lot in town where he could leave his car for the extended period of time they'd be on Tenrou. He then headed back to the dock to join the three.
The boat met them at the dock and it Zeira who greeted them and helped them load their stuff after quick introductions were made.
"Uh. Oh." Mavis quietly commented to Zeref as she gently grabbed his forearm.
"Huh?"
"I think Zeira likes the look of your friend. Is he single?"
Zeref looked at how Zeira was fixated on Mard and smirked.
"Yes, but don't tell her."
Mavis smiled and boarded the boat with Mard's help.
A little while later, they were on Tenrou and Zeira hung around Mard more than she planned to. Realizing her mistake, she went over to Mavis and whisked her away leaving the boys to follow.
Mard picked up his pace and followed talking with Zeref.
"So, uh, she's your girlfriend's friend?"
"Yeah," Zeref started. "She's nice. Sneaky, but nice."
"I get the feeling you know something you aren't telling me."
"Of course I do." Zeref teased. "Come on. The inn is dead ahead." he stated and then turned to Natsu. "You okay, buddy?"
"I'm good." Natsu said as he took in the sights of the small island town they were walking through, although he was hiding his drained face.
Once they made it to the inn, Zeira checked the three rooms in and had a bell-hop take the luggage to the rooms.
"Follow me!" she stated as she handed them their keys. "I will give you the grand tour of the Red Lizard Inn. And it's history."
The small group followed Zeira around and listened to her as she pointed out some interesting facts, like how it used to be a bar and saloon type of place, with rooms upstairs to rent like back in the wild west. The bar and saloon were converted into a restaurant and the hotel had expanded.
Mavis just followed along, listened to her best friend, and chimed in when asked to or thought it necessary since she knew the history already.
Zeira guided them to their rooms and then let them settle in, keeping Mavis company.
"So, how do you like your room?"
"This is great. Still has the kitchen I see." Mavis commented as she took in the room's featured and toured it herself. "The view from the balcony is nice too."
"Only the best for my bestie, of course." Zeira commented. "Zeref and Mr. Geer also have like the same view and room style."
Mavis let our a small giggle.
"I'm sure you can call him, Mard, Zeira." she teased.
"I know." Zeira commented as she excitedly hopped on the bed. "I think he's handsome. I really like his look with his dark purple hair and dark mysterious eyes." she responded. "Is he one of Zeref's friends?"
"Yes, and he's the author of Natsu's favorite series." Mavis confirmed. "You can ask him to proof-read your blog entries before posting." Mavis teased.
"Ha. Ha. Very Funny." the brunette responded. "Is he single?"
"I'm not really sure." she answered lying. "You can either ask Zeref, or Mard himself." the small blond teased her friend as she was unpacking her clothes and hanging them up in the closet.
"No. No. No.I don't think I'd be able to do that." Zeira replied nervously.
Mavis smiled as she grabbed her toiletry bag and put it in the bathroom.
"You know, it's not the end of the world if the girl makes the first move."
"Funny. But after that last guy I swore I would never make the first move again."
"Okay, that guy was a creep. Even after you broke it off." Mavis agreed and shuddered.
"I think he thought that since I was so forward in confessing it meant that I would want to fast-track our relationship. I was not having any of it."
"He was a bit of a psycho." Mavis agreed again thinking of the horror stories Zeira would tell her. "I think Mard is nice. You probably could make the first move and he would be impressed, and not aggressive. And since you aren't a parent of a child who likes his series, it might be even better for you."
"Even though I know of a child who is utterly obsessed with Igneel?"
"Eh, he's a friend's brother. I don't think Mard really cares." Mavis shrugged off. "It's a different situation."
Zeira still looked conflicted.
"Or wait and see what happens while we're here. Maybe things will unfold on its own with you and him." Mavis added bringing a small smile to her best friend's face.
The was a light knock on the door and Mavis opened it to find Zeref and Mard outside. She waved them in puzzled at first, and then realized why. Zeira was still puzzled though until Zeref spoke.
~With Zeref and Natsu~
"This is cool!" Natsu said as he went around the room. "And Mr. Geer's room is right next door to ours, as is Ms. Vermillion's."
"That will come in handy."
"How?" Natsu asked confused.
"At least I know they aren't far so if you want to take a nap, I can go over and talk to them."
"Speaking of, can I take a nap Zeref?" he asked. "My tummy doesn't feel all that good."
"Oh, right. The boat. I should have let you nap once we checked in instead of taking you on the tour around the hotel." Zeref belatedly realized. "Go ahead, Natsu. You have your Igneel plush right?"
"Yup!" he answered as he tried to climb on the bed.
Unsuccessful, he instead backed up and little and gave himself a running start before he jumped up onto it.
Zeref smiled. He let Natsu lie down and made a barricade so he wouldn't fall off of the bed since it was higher off the ground than his bed.
"Why'd you do that?" Natsu asked confused.
"I don't want you to fall off and get a concussion." Zeref teased. "This bed is higher than yours and mine. It will hurt if you fall while asleep."
"Mmkay." Natsu agreed as he settled in with his Igneel plush next to him.
Once Zeref was sure Natsu was sleeping, he quietly made his way next door to Mard's room and knocked. He opened the door and Zeref waved at him to come quietly to Mavis's room.
Once they were let inside, the four moved into the room where Zeira was seated on the couch next to Mavis and across from Mard who was seated in the desk chair, while Zeref sat in the small recliner that was also in the room.
He carefully and quietly explained how he had wanted to surprise Natsu with meeting his favorite author, who happened to be Mard.
"Oh, right. We were going to do that next month, but since I am here too it makes sense."
"Yeah, since someone might slip up at some point." Mavis commented.
"We need a plan."
"What is Natsu doing now?" Zeira asked. "Is he in the room unsupervised?" she asked worried.
"He'll be fine. He's just napping. He's out cold. He gets motion sickness so the boat was fun." He answered with a small laugh. "And he knows the rooms next to us belong to people I know." Zeref answered.
Zeira nodded in agreement.
"Okay, well, maybe something can be done at dinner tonight to get it out of the way." Zeira commented as her gaze shifted from Zeref to Mard making Mavis giggle. "What?"
"Nothing." Mavis replied still smiling, but waving her hands.
I may or may not have finally gotten around to finishing the last chapter of Fata Donum. Now to figure out if I should post it tonight or tomorrow morning...
So I didn't forget to post the chapter this morning. I'm having a hard time getting in the groove of writing after a very busy weekend and then trip preparations I have for after Easter. Hopefully over the weekend I'll post chapter 18. And I am thinking of ending this at chapter 20.
Premise: Based off of aloosh_s's masterpiece found here with the following description (written by illustrator herself but edited a bit by me):
"An AU where Zeref is a protective older brother of Natsu. He always takes an hour off from his tiring job to go take Natsu home after school, but he always finds his little brother crying while waiting outside. He would kneel down in front of him and ask him, with a warm smile, 'Why are you crying, Natsu?" "M-my…friends keep saying bad words about my pink hair…" Zeref would notice the kids in the distance laughing while eyeing Natsu, and his anger would start to snap, but he manages a way to hold it in. One day he decides to talk to his teacher…that is when he meets Mavis…"
A/N: The title is Latin for “destiny’s gift.” I had no idea what to title it, and it may change, but wanted to put this out here on tumblr (also on ff.net).
The following week, after all had been said and done at the meeting at Fairy Tail Publishing & Printing Company, the employees were excited to only have to work half days in the summer, but get a full day's pay. Zeref was more than thrilled he could spend more time with Natsu, especially in the hot summer months.
He was on his way over to the Heartfilias to pick him up when his cell phone rang. Noticing it was Mr. Heartfilia, Zeref immediately pulled over and then answered the phone call.
"Hello Jude." Zeref greeted.
"Hey, Zeref. So, Lucy is insisting that you stay over and join in the barbecue festivities."
"Uh, okay."
"So if you don't have a bathing suit with you, you might want to pick one up."
"That's fine. I can swing by the house to grab one real quick."
"Good. See you soon!"
Jude hung up and then Zeref locked his phone before putting it down and getting back onto the road. Like he said, Zeref swung by their house and decided to change into his bathing suit and grabbed a towel before continuing on his way to the Heartfilias. Once he was there, he was welcomed in by Layla and followed her to the back deck and patio area where Natsu and Lucy were playing in the in ground pool. He then looked up to see that the Heartfilias had a few other guests, including the Fullbuster family. Mrs. Fullbuster was lathering on the sunscreen onto her son while Mr. Fullbuster was helping Jude. Also there were some of the other kids in Natsu's class and some older siblings, from what Zeref could deduce.
"ZEREF!" Natsu called as he and Lucy got out of the pool. "Watch this!"
Zeref smiled and nodded as he watched Natsu go behind the rock decorations only to see him at the top of the rocks.
"Natsu! Be careful!" Zeref scolded.
"I''m fine!" The little pink haired boy called and then turned to his right. "Ready Lucy?"
"Let's do it!"
Lucy went down the slide and Natsu timed it so the two of them would hit the water at the same time. He cannonballed into the pool and she slid down head first. Once they came up, they were both grinning from ear to ear.
"They've been practicing their timing on that one for a long time." Mrs. Fullbuster said from behind. "We've been keeping an eye on them, so you don't have to worry too much."
"Thanks, but knowing Natsu, he'd fall and get hurt." Zeref said with a very small smile. "But at least he's having fun."
"Yes, and I hear that you and Ms. Vermillion are dating?"
"It was one date so far." Zeref said cringing. "I suppose my turkey of a brother told you?"
"Nope. His little turkey of a friend." Mrs. Fullbuster stated as she thumbed over to Lucy. "But it's nice. Don't feel embarrassed about it. And call me Mika."
"Thanks. You can call me Zeref."
"Good, because I was going to anyway, as was my husband."
"Who are the other kids here? I only recognize a few from Natsu's class."
""Oh, right, so you know Lyon and Yukino. The trio with the white hair are all siblings. Mirajane is the eldest, then Elfman and Lisanna is the same age as Natsu and Lucy, but she was in another class this past year. As was Levy McGarden, the little blue haired girl who just arrived before you did. Then there's Evergreen and Bixlow, who are the same age as Mirajane." Mrs. Heartfilia slowly explained. "Come to think of it, Freed and Laxus aren't here yet."
"Laxus? As in Dreyar?"
"Yes. You know him?" Mika asked surprised.
"Yeah, I kinda work for his grandfather. Natsu and I had dinner at their house on Christmas. And Easter."
"Ah, so at least Natsu will know one of the older kids." A man stated from behind. "The Heartfilias actually invited Ms. Vermillion, but she declined."
Zeref went wide-eyed at the mention of Mavis.
"And they invited Gildarts Clive and his daughter, Cana, too. They should be here soon."
"What an odd group to invite." Zeref quietly stated.
"No, not really." Mr. Fullbuster commented. "You can call me Silver, by the way. And the Heartfilias have a long history here in Fiore, just as the Dreyars do."
"I did not know that." Zeref said calmly as Natsu approached.
"Zeref! Come in the pool and throw me!" Natsu pleaded.
"Throw you?" he deviously questioned. "Now why would I do a thing like that?"
"PLEASE?" Natsu begged as he folded his little hands together.
"Well, duty calls. Nice talking to you." Zeref said and then picked up Natsu who immediately started to giggle.
Zeref headed over to the deeper end of the pool and slowly lowered Natsu down while holding one upper arm and one knee before tossing his brother into the pool. Natsu ended up doing a belly flop and once he came up he was still smiling. Zeref jumped in the water and swam over to him.
"AGAIN!"
"ZEREF! Throw US!" Lucy called at the same time as she and Levy carefully swam over to Natsu's brother.
"Okay, if you want to." Zeref agreed. "Ladies first, Natsu."
Lucy swam over to him and treaded water.
"Actually can I jump off your shoulders?"
"Sure." Zeref agreed as he took her by the hands as she swam behind him.
Lucy carefully climbed up onto his shoulders and then jumped off.
The other adults watched as Lucy jumped off into the water, and continued to do so as Levy copied her.
"I think, my dear, we have a cheerleader on our hands." Jude commented to his wife.
"I think so too, but is that such a bad thing? After all, I was one myself."
"Yes, and I was the football jock."
"Jude, Layla, where did she learn that?"
"Probably from jumping off the rocks." Layla answered Mika. "I never told her I was a cheerleader."
"Good grief! Zeref probably could have thrown her in the air and she still would have been fine." Silver teased.
"I'd be more concerned with Levy. She's a bit smaller than Lucy." Mika commented. "Now that girl could get some serious air."
"ZEREF! That was fun! Can we do it again?" Lucy asked.
"Sure, but only until I start to get tired."
"OKAY!" two of the three kids exclaimed.
"You okay, Levy?"
"I'm fine." she shyly answered. "But I do want to do it again." she added with a smile.
So, for the next fifteen minutes, Zeref continued to toss the three kids into the pool. He then told them to take a break and join the other kids before he got out of the pool.
"Oh dear!" Layla stated as she came over to him.
"Something wrong?"
"You're going to need aloe, and a lot of it." She said with a pause. "You're a bit pink."
"Oh. It's okay. Sunburn doesn't really bother me too much."
"But don't you have a date this weekend with Ms. Vermillion?" Layla asked concerned.
"I'll be fine. It's only Tuesday. Two days of aloe and I will be good as new. Just watch."
Layla raised her eyebrow and grinned.
"If you insist. But you better believe I am going to check you on Thursday to see if you were telling the truth."
Zeref chuckled as he put his shirt back on. Everyone was called to come out of the pool to sit down and eat, and all of the kids enjoyed themselves. Mr. Dreyar arrived with Laxus, and who Zeref presumed to be Freed.
But what surprised everyone was that halfway into the devouring of the freshly grilled hot dogs and hamburgers, Ms. Vermillion actually arrived.
"MS. VERMILLION!" Lucy called as she ran over to her former teacher. "Welcome!" She greeted giving her a hug. "Come! Before Natsu eats all of the food." Lucy added tugging on her teacher's hand.
"And here I thought you declined." Jude commented. "Welcome to our house."
"Thanks. And I didn't really decline. I said I had some things to do before I could give a definite answer." Mavis said as she put her stuff down on one of the lounge chairs.
"Sit next to Zeref, Ms. Vermillion. It's the only open seat." Lucy directed grinning.
Mavis smiled as she made eye contact with Zeref and walked over to sit down.
"Hey!" He greeted after finally swallowing the food he had in his mouth.
"What's good?" the petite blonde inquired.
"EVERYTHING!" Natsu answered as he stuffed a forkful of the macaroni salad in his mouth. "When we're done, Lucy and I want to show you something Ms. Vermillion."
"If it's pool related, wait thirty minutes." Zeref scolded. Seeing the scowl on Natsu's face, Zeref continued. "You'll get a stomach cramp while swimming and I really don't feel like giving the two of you CPR."
"Oh? You know CPR?" Layla questioned.
"Yes. I learned it in high school and kept up with the certification. I actually have a class to go to Friday night at the local first aid squad, and this time I am learning the defibrillator."
"That's awesome!" Mika exclaimed.
"What's CPR?" Lisanna asked.
"And what's a de…fib..rill..a…tor?" Levy asked sounding out the word.
Zeref smiled.
"Well, CPR is mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. I would have to use it if one of you stopped breathing due to drowning or choking on sometime." Zeref answered. "And then a defibrillator helps the heart beating again by shocking the heart."
"COOL!" Laxus stated loudly.
"It's not that cool. It's serious stuff." Mr. Dreyar commented.
"Yeah, the AED machine is not a toy. And only those who are certified, like hospital staff and EMTs should use them if needed." Zeref agreed.
"Oh, okay."
"I should have you over here more often, Zeref. You could be our pool's personal lifeguard." Jude joked.
"It comes in handy when needed." the elder Dragneel said with a laugh. "I actually thought about being a lifeguard at the local Y, but never followed up on it."
After some more chatting, the kids all got up and headed over to the yard where there were other things set up like badminton and random toys laying around like hula hoops and such.
"At least they are all enjoying themselves." Mr. Dreyar stated. "I was trying to get here earlier, but Laxus didn't want to leave the house since Freed was over."
"What made him change his mind?" Silver inquired.
"Well, let's just say Layla's text saying that Bixlow and Evergreen were also here. They're all really close in school and it helped direct him to change his mind. Plus Freed wanted to come."
Zeref smiled. He could only hope that his brother would form such friendships with anyone in his class, if not all.
"How is your summer going, Ms. Vermillion?"
"Oh, it's going okay. My friend came in from Tenrou Island for a week, but she went home Sunday."
"Do you have anything planned?" Mika asked.
"Maybe just stay home. I may decide to go to Tenrou Island myself before school restarts, even though I was just there over spring break."
And so the discussion went before Natsu came running back over some time later.
"Can we swim now?" he asked his brother. "Lucy and I want to show Ms. Vermillion the thing."
Zeref looked at his watch and smiled.
"Yes. Your thirty minutes are up. Swim a little first to make sure no cramps form. Scream for me and I will get you out if it does."
"Okay!" Natsu said and then turned to where the kids were playing. "WE CAN GO BACK IN GUYS!" he yelled and then went to the pool and jumped in.
"So not how I wanted him to enter the pool." Zeref said shaking his head and causing Mavis to giggle.
"Aw, but he's a waterbug."
"Yeah, no kidding. Yet, the kid hates bath time."
After two minutes Zeref gave the two the go ahead and they repeated their small feat of Natsu jumping off the top and Lucy sliding down the stairs in perfect timing.
"They practiced that?" Mavis asked quietly. "It doesn't seem that hard." she added in a whisper.
"Yeah, well, it was more like them practicing being crazy and their timing." Zeref explained. "They have it down to perfection, I'd say."
"Me too then." Mavis said as she stood up and walked over to the edge of the pool and sat down with her feet dangling in the water.
"Zeref - can you toss me again?" Lucy asked as she swam over.
"Uh, sure. Just not so much." he answered as he took off his shirt and threw it on a chair
"I can't wait to see this." Mavis said with a huge smile.
"You know, Ms. Vermillion, Zeref could probably throw you too." Jude teased causing Zeref to go bug-eyed and Mavis to turn red.
Zeref continued to get into the water and Lucy joined him in the deeper end.
"Can you go under and push up again?" Lucy asked as she was climbing on him.
"Yeah. Like we did that last time?"
"Yes!"
Zeref shook his head as Lucy got a better grip with his hands. Zeref sunk under about a foot before propelling upwards and letting her go as she pushed herself off of him.
"Cheerleader moves?" Mavis questioned as Layla sat down next to her.
"Kind of. I never taught her. She got the idea all on her own." Layla answered. "Levy, why don't you join her and do the double you did once before?"
"Okay!" Levy answered as she went over to the pool and jumped in splashing Zeref.
Zeref shook his head as he smiled at her.
"I think you should go in too, Ms. Vermillion."
"I will soon, Mrs. Heartfilia. I need to let the food digest." Mavis said with a smile. She then turned around to face the adults, and with a louder voice, said, "And everyone can call me Mavis. I don't mind."
"Good to know. So, Mavis, what was your date like with Zeref? And are you going out again?" Silver inquired shocking the petite blonde teacher, and Zeref as well.
"Uh…well…it was nice. I had fun, and as far as I know, we're going out again Saturday." Mavis stuttered and then looked to Zeref, who gave her an 'I am embarrassed too' shrug.
"Ms. Vermillion! Come in!" Natsu yelled as he came over to her. "You didn't eat that much so thirty minutes must be too long." he added with a grin. "And then Zeref can throw you too."
Mavis let out a small laugh and then proceeded to stand up, slipping her shorts off and pulling off her tank top, revealing a pink bikini.
Zeref, if it wasn't for him in the water and treading water, probably would have sunk to the bottom and drowned at the site of Mavis in the bikini. Luckily for him, Levy helped get his attention back to where it should be.
"You asked for it!" Mavis yelled as she ran and jumped into the water in a perfect cannonball splashing everyone, including getting the parents sitting at the table.
Zeref thought Natsu was crying at first, but then he realized he was laughing as he and Lucy were splashing each other. Zeref tossed Levy real quick in one direction before choosing to dive under the water away from her landing zone. He swam under Lucy and started to come up under Natsu getting him on his shoulders.
"Hey! Zeref!" Natsu yelled as he tried to wiggle free from his brother.
"Listen you little instigator." he started causing Natsu to sheepishly grin. "Calm down."
"Okay."
"Good. Now we're going under." Zeref said as he sat down dunking his brother.
When he came up he swam over to the edge of the pool where Mavis had managed to get to and chose to talk with her while watching the kids, who were now all entering the pool.
A/N: Again, thanks for reading. And not to brag, but since I am a chapter ahead on my computer, I really think you are going to like what happens in chapter 15. =)
Oh, and if you have any questions regarding something in the chapter, shoot me a message, ask or reblog with it and I will answer, providing I see it.
I can’t believe I am almost done with posting this.
And I completely forgot that since my computer died and I had to buy a new one that I am now in need of writing the sequel I had again...UGH! I rewrote some, and thought I liked how it was going, but I may change it now. That kills me.
Also on ff.net and wattpad for your reading pleasure.
Chapter Ninety-Three: Plan Altered
After the utter shock wore off of Rani, she eventually said yet to Hitsugaya Toshiro, much to his enjoyment and pleasure. The newly engaged couple made the most of their time while on vacation and enjoyed the remainder of it in peace. Once the week was over, they headed back to the Soul Society to get on with their daily lives.
"So, how are we going to break the news to everyone?" Toshiro asked before they officially arrived from the Dangai Precipice World.
"What? You didn't plan for after you proposed?" Rani teased and then gave herself a few minutes to think about it. "Well, I suppose we could inform our closest friends." She started and then stopped short. "You might want to refrain from telling your lieutenant though."
Toshiro let out a laugh.
"Yeah, definitely. Once she finds out, the whole Gotei 13 will know within a week, maybe less."
"I'll tell Captain Kuchiki and the girls. You can tell whoever you think should know right away."
"Sounds good." He agreed as they finally arrived. "I am assuming you'll tell the girls tonight and your captain tomorrow."
"That's the plan."
After walking Rani to her quarters, Toshiro made his way out of Squad Six and to his own residence leaving Rani to her own devices. She unpacked her luggage to do the laundry. Once that was started she unpacked the other suitcase and made herself some tea before there was a knock on the door.
"Coming!" She called as she made her way over to the door and opened it. "Hello Captain Kuchiki." Rani said surprised as she greeted Rukia. "Come on in. Would you like some tea?"
"Hello Rani. And yes, please."
Once Rukia was inside, Rani made her way to the kitchen to prepare a cup of tea and then brought it out to the living quarters.
"To what do I owe this visit?" Rani inquired as she sat down.
"You just got back right?" Rukia asked nervously.
"Yes. Why? Is something wrong?"
"No." Rukia said with a high-pitched voice. "Um, I need your opinion on something, and I really can't talk to Byakuya about it."
"Okay, I'm intrigued."
"Okay, so I just got from a two day patrol and Ichigo just admitted to me that he loves me and wants to be by my side forever."
Two seconds was all it took for Rani to digest the information and process it before forming a small smile on her face.
"Did he propose?" She asked. Rukia shook her head. "Did you want him to?"
"I don't know. Ichigo and I have been through a lot, yes, but I never thought about this before."
"What did you tell him?"
"Surprisingly, I was calm when I told him we would have to see. I said I sort of had feelings for him, but there was a lot to deal with first."
"You were thinking of your brother's approval, weren't you?"
"Yes." She shamefully admitted. "I always think of him first before I commit to anything."
"Be honest - do you have feelings for Ichigo in that way?"
Rukia looked up at Rani eye to eye before taking in a deep breath and answering.
"I do." She said and then groaned causing Rani to let a small laugh slip. "It's not funny."
"In a way, it is. You've known him just as long as I have known Toshiro. For Ichigo to admit this now, it's a good thing in a way, no?"
"I don't know." Rukia replied and then decided to change the topic. "So, enough about me. How was your surprise vacation? Where did you go?"
"Sure, now we talk about me." Rani said sarcastically. "It was fun. He took me to an almost deserted tropical island. Very private."
"I know I am not one for gossip, but anything romantic happen?"
Rukia's question caught Rani off-guard. So much so that she didn't answer right away.
"If I told you something, would you promise to not tell your brother before I get the chance to?"
"Sure." Rukia replied worried. "What is it?" She asked as there was a knock on the door.
"Uh, hold on." Rani said as she got up and answered it. "Umeko! Chiharu! Kiyomi! You're all here! Why?"
"Well, don't let us stand out here. Let us in." Chiharu stated causing Rani to sheepishly smile.
Once they girls were all inside, they said hello to Rukia as they sat down while Rani got them some tea as well.
"I saw Captain Hitsugaya back in Squad Ten, which meant that you were also back. I got the girls and we headed here." Umeko explained and then took a sip of her tea.
"So, how'd it go?" Chiharu eagerly asked.
"Well, it was fun. Secluded. Out of the way." Rani started.
"And?" Kiyomi urged her on.
Rani formed a large grin on her face before answering.
"And he asked me to marry him and I said yes." She quickly stated causing the four other girls in her room to gasp in shock. "BUT I need you to tell NO ONE. I am pretty sure once I tell Captain Kuchiki, he'll bring up his offer that he told Toshiro months ago about using the Kuchiki Manor, but no one else is to know at this time."
"RANI!" Kiyomi yelled as she tackled her friend causing the other girls to erupt in a bit of laughter.
"This means we can plan the wedding." Umeko teased receiving a pillow to the face.
"You ladies are something else." Rukia commented as she joined in on the laughter.
"We know." Chiharu replied grinning.
The girls continued to discuss the whole thing and Rukia eventually left to head to Kuchiki Manor before Byakuya got worried, or mad at her being late.
Meanwhile, as soon as he knew the coast was clear, Toshiro made his way to Squad Five and headed right for Momo's quarters. He knocked on the door and it was soon opened. Instead of waiting for her to say anything, he barged right in.
"Okay, so welcome back. And I am assuming by the smile on your face, it went well?" Momo inquired as she closed the door and her turned around to face her.
"Yes. It went almost as planned."
"But?"
"But now what do I do? I really didn't think this through."
"Okay, so there are steps to prepare for a wedding, Toshiro." She replied. "Would you like some tea? I just made a pot."
"Sure."
"Okay, so as I was saying," She started as she poured him his cup of tea, "There are steps to prepare for a wedding. You and Rani need to discuss a variety of things from if you want it to be a traditional ceremony, or a western civilization theme, and then they have their own list of items to do from where you'll have it to who will be in the wedding party."
"That alone seems like a lot."
"We'll take it one step at a time." Momo smiled as she hugged him. "I am just glad that all of that planning paid off. Congratulations."
Premise: Based off of aloosh_s's masterpiece found here with the following description (written by illustrator herself but edited a bit by me):
"An AU where Zeref is a protective older brother of Natsu. He always takes an hour off from his tiring job to go take Natsu home after school, but he always finds his little brother crying while waiting outside. He would kneel down in front of him and ask him, with a warm smile, 'Why are you crying, Natsu?" "M-my…friends keep saying bad words about my pink hair…" Zeref would notice the kids in the distance laughing while eyeing Natsu, and his anger would start to snap, but he manages a way to hold it in. One day he decides to talk to his teacher…that is when he meets Mavis…"
A/N: The title is Latin for “destiny’s gift.” I had no idea what to title it, and it may change, but wanted to put this out here on tumblr (also on ff.net).
Waking Natsu up on Monday morning was no picnic. Zeref was happy when he was finally able to, but worried if this was going to be a repetitive thing whenever he went on a date with Mavis.
After getting Natsu ready, complete with a full stomach, Zeref drove Natsu to the Heartfilias where Lucy came running out of the door with Plue following closely behind. While Lucy greeted Natsu at the car door, Plue ran around to the driver's side and 'greeted' Zeref by barking.
"Hi Plue!" Zeref greeted as he let the puppy smell him. "I'm a friend, remember?"
The little white dog stopped barking and then headed back over to Lucy.
"Hello Mr. Dragneel!" Mrs. Heartfilia greeted as she came out of the door.
"Morning! Thanks for watching him today while I am at work."
"It's no problem. We enjoy his company."
After a small conversation, Zeref headed to work and got right down his to-do list for the day, which consisted of contacting his 'charges' to make sure they were doing their job of writing their novels, as well as contacting some graphic designers about the illustrations and covers for some new books that were to be printed by the end of the summer.
Once those emails were sent out, he went to check his emails realizing he never checked his personal account the day before, and he cringed when he did so, since Zeira had replied.
"Whoops!" Zeref said and then clicked on the email to open it.
"Dragneel!
What the hell? Desperate? I am not desperate!
…
Okay, so maybe there aren't many guys on Tenrou Island that I would even consider dating. Actually, most are creeps. So maybe I am a little desperate? If you wouldn't mind seeing about your friends, I would greatly appreciate it.
You should definitely kiss her – either on the next date or the one after that. But NO LATER! She might think you don't like her, and I am sure that is not the case. As far as ideas go, she's open to whatever. Just tell her next time in advance if you plan on taking her to 8 Island so she's not so dressed up. She was a bit embarrassed about the dress she wore. But she did look gorgeous! Right?
Shoot me an email before you take her out next time. I'll give you some ideas. When do you think you'll ask her for the second date? And when would you want to take her out? I only ask because if you were considering this coming Saturday, I would like to ask you to refrain from doing so. It's my last night here before I go back to Tenrou.
I'll talk to you later!
Zeira"
After reading, he quickly hit reply.
"Zeira,
I can wait an additional week for the second date, unless you wanted to make her gorgeous for me again. Only kidding! I was actually thinking of next weekend. I won't have anyone to watch Natsu until then. And I will email you for some ideas, although the Heartfilias gave me a couple. They mentioned The Serenity Lounge here in town and Love & Lucky in the next town. Those two restaurants are more fancy, but I may bring her to one of those.
And yes, Mavis looked beautiful on Saturday. As corny as this may sound, I am going to say it anyway: she always looks beautiful to me. You just enhanced it on Saturday. And I will be sure to let her know where I am going to take her so she can be well prepared and dressed appropriately.
Sorry for that 'desperate' crack. I probably shouldn't have sent it, but it was funny to me at the time. I hope I didn't get you too offended.
Zeref"
Zeref closed out the window and headed downstairs to see the status of the current project he was working on. When he got back to his office, he had three missed text messages all from Mavis.
MV: I just wanted to let you know I had a lot of fun on Saturday.
MV: Out of curiosity, you wouldn't happen to know why Zeira is acting all secretive, would you? She's been glued to her phone for a good majority of her vacation here so far, and it's bugging the crap out of me.
MV: Sorry. You don't know her that well.
Zeref smiled and cringed while he read the messages. He sent Zeira an email really quick with a screenshot of his phone and waited for her reply, which came moments later.
"Zeref,
I guess we should come clean eventually, right? She's onto us in a way, so it's only fair that I tell her the story, especially since I am the one who started the whole conversation. I'll let her know on Saturday.
Zeira"
He smiled and shot her a "Sounds good to me. Thanks" email before replying to Mavis's text message.
ZD: Sorry for the delay. Work stuff. I am glad you had fun. I can't wait to take you out again. Natsu was interested in coming along one time with us, but I said that would be up to you. I was thinking next Saturday for our next date so that you can spend time with Zeira this weekend.
ZD: Speaking of your friend, I don't know why she'd be acting secretive. I'd be lying if I said I wouldn't be glued to my phone either. Maybe you should just ask her?
ZD: And we'll talk about our second date when you want to. No rush! Enjoy spending time with your friend.
Zeref closed his phone and took in a deep breath and sighed. Mr. Dreyar came in soon after.
"Afternoon Mr. Dreyar." Zeref greeted. "How can I help you?"
"I wanted your input on something." The short man stated as he came in and sat down on one of Zeref's spare chairs.
"Okay."
"As you know I am not getting any younger, and a lot of our employees have small children of their own, or are taking care of much younger siblings, like yourself."
Zeref raised an eyebrow at the last part curious about his boss's following statements.
"So, I was wondering what you thought if we either only worked half days in the summer, or shortened our open time to only be Mondays through Wednesdays or Thursdays?"
Zeref couldn't help but smile. He had to admit even he wanted to spend more time with Natsu this summer, especially during the day, but the hours he worked just wouldn't allow it.
"I take it you want to spend more time with Laxus."
"Yes, and I am sure everyone would like to enjoy their summer."
Zeref sat back in his chair and gave the idea some consideration.
"Honestly, Mr. Dreyar, I think it's a wonderful idea. Both have their pros and cons, but maybe you should ask the senior staff."
"I can't stand those idiots. I swear they are trying to make this company run into the ground." Mr. Dreyar said with a huff. "I was asking you because you can relate more to my predicament, and for the others in the company."
Zeref smiled.
"Maybe have a mandatory meeting sometime this week to discuss it. I am sure there will be some people who will have questions to ask about it."
"Like?"
"Will it affect their benefits, earning vacation and sick time, and things of that sort."
"Right." Mr. Dreyar said with a nod. "I must put those into consideration. Thank you for reminding me."
"No problem."
"Okay, so I will organize a meeting for Friday, probably around one o'clock. All lunch breaks must be taken by twelve thirty so that everyone is back by one."
"Should I make a sign to post around the building?"
"If you wouldn't mind. You're creative like that."
"Will do. Where will we have it?"
"The largest conference room. I can have the tables removed and more chairs brought in." Mr. Dreyar said as he stood up. "I will send an email blast out as soon as I see the final flyer from you."
Zeref smiled as his boss then left him alone. At least now, Zeref wouldn't be twiddling his thumbs trying to find something to do. He opened a window and started to prep the meeting announcement with big, bold letters saying "MANDATORY MEETING" at the top of the paper.
It took him a whopping fifteen minutes to complete the announcement, which he laughed at as he emailed it to Mr. Dreyar for approval. Moments later, he received the go ahead to copy it and walk around the building hang it up in a multitude of places like the break room, where the main time clock was, the copiers, and the various bulletin boards. Working in a printer shop had its advantages. Zeref could make copies on a variety of paper colors, which he used to his full advantage.
On his way back to his office he swung by Mr. Dreyar's office. He gently knocked on the door to garner his boss's attention.
"Oh, hey Zeref."
"Everything is hung up around the building now."
"Great! You can call it a day. It's almost two."
"Thanks. I will once I check my emails a final time."
"Oh, right. Speaking of, does Natsu even know that we print the Igneel series, or that you know the author?"
Zeref sheepishly grinned.
"Nope. He probably would never figure it out unless he gets bored looking at all of the pages of his books. He usually just quickly goes to the first page."
Mr. Dreyar let out a chuckle before wishing Zeref a good afternoon, ultimately sending him on his way.
Zeref headed to his office and checked his emails, replying back to those who needed an immediate response. He then picked up his phone and grabbed his keys out of his top drawer before heading out the door.
MV: Natsu joining us sounds like fun, but maybe not on our second date. I hope he wouldn't be too upset. I have some ideas for our date, like maybe the Botanical Gardens, unless you think that's too cheesy, or not worth it since we'd only be able to go during the day.
MV: And I fully intend to talk to Zeira about her being so engrossed with her phone. It's not healthy. Or polite.
MV: Then who am I to say that since I have my nose stuck in my cell phone texting you?
Zeref let out a chuckle as he waved goodbye to Chloe at the front desk and headed to his car. He called the Heartfilias to tell them he was coming early to pick up Natsu before he sat down in his car.
ZD: We could do the gardens one day. It's been years since I've been there. I completely forgot about them. If you wanted, we could do that during the day and then close with dinner, but I think I would want to bring Natsu there, unless we make two dates there…
ZD: …I think I am getting ahead of myself. If you want to go there for our next date, that is fine. I know a place for dinner we could go to, but I know you have to dress up for that - like 'business casual'. No jeans, t-shirts, etc.
Zeref smiled and then started his car and headed to get Natsu. The pink-haired child came running outside once Zeref pulled up, and was bouncing around while the elder Dragneel got out of his car.
"Did you have fun?"
"Yes! I got to go swimming in their pool again. We even taught Plue how to swim."
Zeref scratched the side of his face as Lucy and Mrs. Heartfilia came out, with Plue following.
"You taught a dog how to swim?"
"Yeah, well, he is only a puppy. He had fun and they even had a life jacket for him."
"Hello Zeref." Mrs. Heartfilia greeted.
Zeref smiled, looked down at Plue, who was still in his life jacket, and then looked back up at Mrs. Heartfilia.
"Yes, he is wearing a life jacket. One of the things we found in the pet store the other day." She stated with a laugh. "I think he likes wearing it."
"How was it getting it on him?"
"An adventure." Lucy said with a large smile and a giggle. "Does Natsu really have to go?"
Zeref squatted down in front of the little blonde.
"Yes. I want to spend more time with him, and you'll be seeing him a lot this summer."
Lucy smiled and then got a glint in her eye, much like the one Natsu gets when he's about to be devious.
"Are you going on more dates with Ms. Vermillion?"
Zeref chuckled and nodded.
"Yes, our next one isn't until next week." He answered as he stood up. "So I may need that table at The Serenity Cafe." He hinted to Mrs. Heartfilia who smiled and nodded.
"Okay. You can have your brother back."
Lucy said her goodbyes to Natsu before excusing herself and going back into the house with Plue. Mrs. Heartfilia smiled and shook her head.
"Sorry."
"Don't be. I am just glad that she's enjoying spending time with Natsu. He's a handful for me."
"So is she. I think they match up quite well."
"Well, we had better be off." Zeref said with a sigh. "It may be early pickups all week, the way my boss is going."
"Sure thing. Just keep me posted."
"Will do. See you tomorrow."
"Thank you Mrs. Heartfilia." Natsu said before heading to Zeref's car.
Zeref made sure his little brother was buckled in before putting the car into gear and drove.
"Where do you want to go?"
"We can go somewhere?"
"Yes. That's why I just asked you."
"Oh, okay! Can we go to the park?"
"Sure!"
Zeref drove the car to the local park and the two walked through the trails. Natsu asked a variety of questions about each type of plant, and was shocked when Zeref was able to answer every single one of his questions. All of his time in school paid off, especially since he excelled in science.
It wasn't until they were back at the car when Natsu asked a question Zeref wasn't really expecting.
"How do you know so much about nature?"
"I read. A lot. And you learn about those types of things in science class."
"Really?"
"Yes." Zeref answered with a chuckle. "Learning about the earth is called the earth sciences."
"There's more than one?"
"Yes, quite a few actually. Biology is learning about living things. Marine biology is about anything that lives in the ocean. Geology focuses on rocks and stuff. Archaeology is about ancient civilizations."
"What's it called to study dinosaurs?"
"Paleontology." Zeref answered.
"Wow. That's a lot."
"Yes, it is. And this is a big world, so there is a lot to learn about." He stated and then paused. "There are a lot of other types too. For instance, learning about space is called astronomy."
"I can't wait to learn about all of that myself!"
"I am glad to hear that, but first let's get past learning how to ready, write, and do basic math." Zeref teased causing Natsu to smile. He then opted to change the topic. "I was texting Ms. Vermillion today."
"Really? Did you ask her about me going with you?"
"Yes. She agreed you could, but not on our second date."
"Okay." Natsu said, slightly sad. "Can we all go to the carnival when it comes into town?"
"I almost forgot about that. It should be coming soon."
"Mrs. Heartfilia said it will be here in two weeks. They are taking Lucy, and she's so excited."
"Hmm…okay, but I don't know how well you will do."
"Huh? What do you mean?"
"You get motion sickness in the car, that's why you have medicine everyday. Carnivals have a lot of fast moving rides."
"Can I at least try the rides? If I get sick, we can just walk around."
"Natsu?"
"Yeah?"
"Have I ever told you how much I love you?" Zeref asked causing him to grin.
Once inside their house, the two made their way to the kitchen, where Zeref made them an early dinner. As soon as they were finished, he put on a bag of popcorn in the microwave and then popped in a movie.
It didn't take long for Natsu to fall asleep watching it, and Zeref left him on the couch for the time being. Eventually he brought his brother to his room, tucked him in, and called it a night himself.
Zeref would be lying if he now said he wasn't looking forward to his second date with Mavis and the 'date' he'd have with her and his brother. When he went to bed later that night, he went to sleep with a smile on his face.
