#rook2020-fanworks

[rook2020-fanworks]

Chapter Update!

I‘ve actually added several chapters since my last post, but I’m not on Tumblr often. My bad! I thought I’d share a humorous snippet today, featuring Lucy fighting a mercenary.

"You chose the wrong guy to try to seduce!" he declared as he stomped towards her, knife raised to take her out in one savage blow, seeing no reason to hold back on account of her being a woman. Let no one ever say he didn't treat everyone equally.

To his amazement, she blocked his strike with little effort, causing his knife to fling away, crying out, "Who says I'm trying to seduce you?" before delivering a swift kick towards his groin.

Seeing the ease in which she'd deflected that blow, Godwin instinctively knew he wanted to avoid that incoming kick at all costs, and pushed her away as he retreated a fair distance from her feet. He eyed her more critically, rightfully assuming her change in attire had something to do with that enormous strength. While he calculated his next move, she shook out her hand, the one she'd blocked with, and pulled out a long whip.

She was muttering to herself as she pulled the whip taut between her hands.

"Seriously, even though I definitely was not trying to hit on you, I can't believe you wouldn't fall for my stunning good looks. What the heck is wrong with you bad guys anyway?! Is there some weird standard of sex appeal I'm not aware of? Freakin Gray attracts more men than I do!"

"What?"

"I mean, don't get me wrong, I can totally see the appeal. If I was a guy, I'd probably switch sides for him too, but Natsu and I have a chemistry, dammit!"

"The Hell are you going on about, lady?!"

"I'm talking about how this right here," she said as she gestured towards herself, "constantly goes over the heads of dimwits who don't know how to appreciate true beauty!"

Please follow the link above to read the rest of this chapter🤠

[theguildawards]

Term 1 2023 Fanfiction Winners!

Thank you to everyone who participated in the first term 2023 hosted by The Guild Awards! The mod-team is excited to see so much amazing fanwork and their creators recognized, as well as the love shown for this fandom!

Without further delay, here we are!

Click here for the Fanart Winners

Fanfiction Winners of The Guild Awards for Term 1 2023!

Best Action/Adventure Fiction: "The Curse of the Dragon Slayer" by FiveCentsFanFics (AO3) Best Alternate Universe/Reality Fiction: "Keep Me Safe" by Rosicamarica (AO3) Best Canon Fiction: "Former Arrangements" by @genavere Best Angst Fiction (tie): "Losing What You Never Had" by @pencilofawesomeness and "Let's Play the Quiet Game - Recovery" by Rook2020 (AO3) Best Dark Fiction: "Dead Stars" by @genavere Best Drama Fiction: "Monster" by MsKtK (AO3) Best Humor/Parody Fiction: "I'm Married" by Auburry (AO3) Best Oneshot (tie): "Part of the Family" by Leo_Wolf (AO3) and "Silly and intimate moments" by @jemmahazelnut Best Character Portrayal: "Monster" (Gajeel Redfox) by MsKtK (AO3) Best Romance Fiction: "taking the hint" by @tokkias Best LGBTQ+ Romance Fiction: "There is Love" by @sandwitchstories Best Serial Fiction: "Let's Play the Quiet Game" by Rook2020 (AO3) Best Ficlet" "Just Try To Get Rid of Me" by tiny_writes_stuff (AO3) Best Antagonist Portrayal (tie): "Fairy Tales Grimm" (Jose Porla) by DarkUnderworld (AO3) and "Rewrite" (Zeref Dragneel) by @thehylianidiot Best Completed Fiction: "Fairy Tales Grimm" by DarkUnderworld (AO3)

Congratulations to all the winners! Your awards are ready! Please send one of the mods or our ask box your preferred email address so we can send them to you!

As this term comes to a close, The Guild Awards will be taking a short hiatus. This time is always spent reviewing the process and seeing what can be revamped for the next term. We also love hearing from the fandom (ie: YOU!) for suggestions regarding any changes or additions.

We will officially be back in full swing on October 1st! We will still be around in case you have questions or concerns, but please take this time to read new fanfiction and find new fanart.

Want to stay immersed in all things Fairy Tail? Join our Discord! It's open to everyone!

As the day gets closer to the start of the next term, we will be keeping everyone in the loop when it comes to changes and updates. We wish you a wonderful summer! Thank you again for making this such a fun experience! See you soon!

~ The Guild Awards

[rook2020-fanworks]

A new story drop!

I wrote this based on a Fairy Tail head canon post on Tumblr. Hope you enjoy!

Pens and Swords Go Hand in Hand

Summary: When she was younger, Erza had a lot of issues with her hands. It wasn’t her fault she’d spent her formative years locked in a tower. She may have been able to handle a sword like a master, but she couldn’t write a letter to save her life. While recovering after a mission gone wrong, Gray offers to tell Lucy of the time he taught Erza how to write—and other things a kid ought to do.

[rook2020-fanworks]

New Story Drop! It’s a GrayLu fic! Enjoy!

Summary- Even though Lucy knew Gray was born in Isvan, she’s only ever known him as a citizen of Magnolia. Therefore, the possibility never really occurred to her that Fioren wasn’t his first language. What other surprises are in store as she’s given this rare peek into his shrouded past? A GrayLu one shot.

Excerpt:

“How do you say hello?"

"Saale."

"Salay?"

"Saale. Saa-, saa-. It's tonal. Hold it for two beats, and the le- is very short."

"Saale. Okay," she murmured, making a note of it, before pausing. She wondered, "If you didn't shake hands, how did you greet each other?"

"You're easily distracted."

"Hey! Learning a new language is all about immersion. So immerse me in your ways, oh teacher."

"Hmph! Depends on who I was greeting. There were simple head nods between friends; a short bow for older people, like parents and teachers. For elders, like my dåsje, you'd hold your hands like this," he said as he demonstrated, putting his hands out as if to receive something, "and wait for them to tap their fingertips to yours. Then you'd touch your forehead as you bowed deeply."

Lucy watched as he went through the motions, looking almost reverent as he bowed, lightly touching his fingertips to his forehead.

"It's supposed to symbolize a young man receiving wisdom from his elders."

"That's beautiful. Your village had such lovely customs."

"Yeah."

"So, um, you greeted friends one way, and parents another. How did lovers greet each other?"

Gray raised his eyebrow at that, and he didn't miss the hint of a blush on her cheeks, though she tried her hardest to look candid.

With an impressed grin, he faced her and answered, "A man would bring his hands together like this," he said as he brought his hands together as if in prayer," and bring them to his lips. He'd kiss his index fingers," again, he did just that, then brought them down, opening them as they came level with his heart, as if holding something, "Then the woman would do the same, bringing her hands together, but instead of kissing them, she'd fold them over her heart, receiving the love the man had bestowed."

Something in Gray's demeanor caught her attention. She wasn't sure if it was his purposeful movements as he'd positioned his hands, or the hopeful, inviting way he gazed at her now, but she felt a boldness come upon her as she replied.

"You mean like this?"

Her gaze met his as she brought her hands together, and neither noticed how her breath hitched as she brought them over her heart.

In his eyes, every move she made was flawless.

"Ise."

Yes.

**Please click the link in the heading to read the whole story.

[rook2020-fanworks]

New Chapter!

"It's really shady where we're walking, but you can see the sun peaking through the trees. Most of them are deciduous, with a few evergreens in the distance. The path is pretty smooth, with shrubs and wildflowers along both sides. It veers a little to the left up ahead, maybe thirty or so meters, but I'm sure it straightens out soon after."

Lucy diligently kept a running commentary of the surroundings as the team strolled idly through the forests between Magnolia and Peony Shire, the small village due east of them. Gray opted to wear his wrap around sunglasses during the mission, deeming the free use of both hands a very big asset in a sudden attack. It was simply a matter of opening his eyes, as opposed to having to remove a cloth barrier to his sight. Natsu was eagerly contributing his own observations, cheerfully pointing out and describing interesting flower groupings, calling out sudden rises or drops in the path, or locating the sources of all the different sounds one would expect in a forest.

"That's definitely a bunch of baby birds I hear. Sounds like six- no, seven. Oh! The mom just arrived! They sound pretty happy now."

"So do you. Why are you so giddy and talkative this morning?" wondered Erza.

"Why wouldn't I be happy. There's no train service in Peony Shire. We're not riding a stinkin vehicle! I can't remember the last time we all just walked to a job. I'm all fired up!"

"It usually takes more than a stroll through the woods to get you fired up," said Gray.

Natsu, never one for mushy feels, wouldn't elaborate the true reason for his mirth; that he was simply thrilled to have the whole team on this mission. Instead, he went for misdirection.

"Happy, look! Lizards! Let's see how many we can catch!"

"Leave the wildlife alone, Natsu," admonished Erza.

"Aw! I was gonna stick a few in Lucy's bag!" lamented Happy.

"You stay out of my things, you stupid cat!"

"Simply childish," Carla scoffed, turning up her nose.

Happy, quickly changing his tune, replied, "Yeah Natsu. You should leave Lucy's underwear alone!"

"Who mentioned anything about underwear!" Natsu cried back.

**Please click the link in the heading to read the rest of the chapter!

[rook2020-fanworks]

My four part series one for Best Serial!

[rook2020-fanworks]

Guild Award Nomination!

My works have been nominated for two “Best Of” categories in the TheGuildAwards Tumblr!

The “Let’s Play the Quiet Game” Series for Best Serial fanfic

And

“Let’s Play the Quiet Game-Recovery” for Best Angst fanfic

Voting takes place April 15-29, so please send your votes! You have to sign into google to do so, and your vote can be made anonymously. I’d really appreciate your support!

[rook2020-fanworks]

I know I’m late announcing, but my story won for Best Angst!

[rook2020-fanworks]

An excerpt from the latest chapter:

Looking around, Lucy wanted to break the strained silence, about to comment about the unsurprising upheaval of the house, when she glanced upon the memory wall. She almost gave it no second thought, but something caught her eye.

"Is that your winning bingo card?" she asked, smiling softly.

"Yeah. That was a pretty fun day."

"It was… We've had a lot of fun days lately, haven't we?"

"Of course. We always have fun together."

"We do. But it's especially fun when all of us are together, isn't it?"

Natsu grinned just the slightest bit as he said, "Yeah."

Lucy returned his grin, saying, "It's been really nice. Things have gotten better, haven't they? I'm glad you've been finding new memories worth cherishing again."

Her eyes were drawn to the tiny flame, surprisingly bright and warm for how small it was. It was so still, almost frozen in time, save for brief flickers whenever their breaths reached it. Seemingly trivial to most, to Lucy, this impressive display revealed the masterful control Natsu truly had over his flames. This only made her wonder.

"So why were you holding back?"

"… I used my powers when I needed to."

"That's not how you fight. You're always eager to let loose when given the chance."

"You really think he was ready for a Fire Dragon's Roar to the face?"

"I don't know what he was ready for, but I think you should have believed he knew, and given him the chance to tell you himself when he'd had enough. Instead, you did everything you could to—"

"—To do what?! Not risk burning the rest of his skin off?"

"He'd never let you do that."

"How could he stop me?!"

"With his powers. The ones you helped him regain."

"Hmph! What does that say about me? I can roast dark mages all day, and do it with a smile on my face. But when I try to use my powers to 'help' my friend, it sickens me... I stood right over him, Lucy. I smelled the smoke, and the cooking skin and muscle. I heard every pop and sizzle, every pained gasped, every scream I tore out of him. I wished every second that it wasn't me doing that to him."

"That just shows how compassionate you are, no matter how tough you try to act. And you know no one else could have done that for him. There may be other fire mages out there who can control their powers better than even you can, but you're the one Gray trusts the most. He's trusting you to help him now. You need to trust him, too. Trust him to be able to stop you from hurting him, because maybe if you believe he can, it'll be easier for him to believe it too."

*Please follow the link above to read the entire chapter*

[rook2020-fanworks]

Day 24- Caught in the Rain

*(Takes place between chapters 21, Longing to be Together, and 23, A Most Wonderful Time)

'Juvia spent far too much time in the bath house. She knew the rain was coming. Now she must hurry back to Fairy Hills!'

Juvia didn't take her self admonishment lightly. She'd known the rain was imminent, had sensed its approach since that morning. She could always tell when her own element was gathered in abundance, just as all elemental mages could.

But after being gone from Magnolia on that extended mission with Gajeel and Panther Lily for so many months, she really wanted to spend as much time as possible with all of her friends. Gajeel had informed her recently that they'd have to resume their mission right after Christmas, instead of waiting for the New Years as they'd originally planned. In that case, an extra long soak in the bath house, gossiping with all the ladies in the guild, had been absolutely called for.

But judging from the ominous looking clouds overhead, she would soon pay dearly for not heeding her usual precautions against being caught in the downpour.

How she hated the rain.

*Drip*

Right on cue, the rain was coming down; first as a gentle mist, but soon a heavy fall. She quickly took shelter underneath a store's canopy, among others caught in the not-so-sudden downpour. She kept her gaze straight ahead into the blinding torrent, a habit long held from early childhood, when her powers had manifested, and she'd had to suffer the many glares of consternation, and blame for the many ruined outings and once-beautiful sunny skies. Though this rain wasn't hers, and none of the citizens of Magnolia had reason to assume it was, since she'd had full control of her powers since before she'd made this town home; she still found it difficult to meet anyone's gaze, for fear of seeing those hateful looks from her past.

Those looks which she hadn't received since her Gray-sama had given her back the sun. That thought brought a smile to her face, as it always did. Some people who were approaching, also seeking shelter, must have seen her smile, for they returned her perceived greeting with the same, before disappearing into the store. That made her warm inside. It was silly of her to still feel compelled to avoid others' gazes. This was just an ordinary rain storm.

Noticing a change in the pattern of the rainfall, her sight was no longer as obscured as before, but she knew this was only temporary. She could tell right away that the heavy rain would return, could feel it in the atmosphere. But maybe she could take this lull to get closer to Fairy Hills. She had her umbrella. With how relatively light it was at the moment, it would be enough to protect her from the bitter cold of this mid-December storm. If only it was cold enough to snow. Then she could bask in the purifying nature of her beloved's element. Ice and snow were so much more lovely than this dismal rain.

Except her love would correct her about the rain. He'd told her himself, mere weeks ago, how much he's always loved her magic. He'd said her water was life-giving and benevolent, and would never mean him harm. Her heart had swelled upon hearing that, and all he'd said that day was forever imprinted into her soul, to remind her of how one person, at least, valued her powers. He valued her. She only wished she had that kind of optimism. He may lack sight, but his ability to still see the good in things, even after all he'd been through, was inspiring.

Those musings were interrupted when she thought she'd spotted something through the thick drizzle that had her perplexed. Narrowing her gaze, she peered through the haze as best she could, wondering if her Gray-centered thoughts were causing her to hallucinate. Upon closer scrutiny, however, she found she hadn't been seeing things. There, standing on the sidewalk at the other side of the street, under the downpour with just a hooded cloak for protection, was Gray.

'What in the world is Gray-sama doing? He could get sick out here!'

This was no exaggeration. She'd heard of his bout of hypothermia barely a month ago. She should have predicted how his loss of powers would have also meant he'd lost his cold resistance as well. She being away on a mission all this time did little to placate her guilt over the perceived oversight. No one else had predicted it either, and Lyon had been tight-lipped about having known since the beginning, feeling that it was Gray's business alone. After all, a mage losing their powers was considered a very sensitive topic to bring up.

To her growing worry, Gray seemed unwilling to seek shelter from the storm. The cloak he wore did little to keep him dry, especially as, for whatever reason, he'd chosen to not pull the hood up to cover his head. As she watched, she began to wonder if maybe he was experiencing one of those strange "drifting" episodes Mira had told her about, where he'd go really still and unresponsive. They were often the end results of severe flashbacks or panic attacks; but in minor cases, he wouldn't even lose consciousness. Such as in those instances, he was just standing there, head tilted slightly towards the sky, looking like he didn't even notice he was getting soaked.

His sudden movement made her jump, and she hadn't realized she was so fixated on her worry for him. He moved smoothly, no indication of confusion or panic at all. So he'd been standing like that on purpose? To her befuddlement, he folded his cane and stowed it somewhere within his cloak, then reached up to remove his sunglasses. She'd never seen him do that. She was aware that he was very reluctant to allow strangers to see his eyes, nor did he want to cause discomfort to his friends.

But right now, he was baring those scarred eyes for the world to see. And to her amazement, he was smiling! So freely, so unguardedly, she could swear he was a completely different person right now, and she felt like she was experiencing love at first sight all over again.

Gray was willingly and blissfully unaware of anything going on around him. All that existed in the world at this moment was the rain, its harsh, soothing waters cascading all around him. He wished he could say the cold didn't bother him, but compared to other discomforts he's endured, this cold was easy to ignore. He kept the feeling of peace this storm provided for him at the forefront of his mind, everything else pushed far away.

He didn't even have room to consider the agitation Lyon would doubtlessly feel when he came home drenched as he was. At least he'd thought to bring a cloak with him today, so the dressings which covered the skin grafts along his back wouldn't get soaked.

... Too much…

...

He was probably in for it now. Oh well. Small sacrifices. Surely Lyon would understand his need for this. Not even he had understood how much comfort he'd find in water, until he'd noticed how much better he slept when it rained. Or how frustrating it was to only be allowed to sponge-bathe each night, feeling bare trickles of water down his back while desperately wanting to be fully immersed in it. How simply dipping his fingers in a glass of water could have a tranquil effect on him now.

So who could blame him if he should take advantage of the storm he'd been anticipating all day? And just as he'd thought, the cold, refreshing rain falling upon his face was as soothing as he'd hoped. He needed to feel the water.

It was the only thing that would keep the fires away.

Juvia watched as Gray raised his arms, taking some kind of strange joy out of simply feeling the raindrops fall upon them. He then combed his fingers into his hair, slicking it back, still staring up at the sky. She knew she'd never be able to look into a storm like that with such elation. She almost envied him, how he found such pleasure from something she had seen as a curse for so long.

A chilled breeze made her shiver, and she could only imagine how cold he must feel out there, though she could tell he tried to deny it to himself, to prolong his time in the rain, no doubt. Well, she wasn't about to let him risk getting sick again. But how to approach him without setting him off like she'd done before? He hated it when people spoke out of no where. Lucy had said that the best approach was to make some kind of noise before she spoke, to get his attention first. The rain was too loud for a whistle or clap to be heard over it. Maybe—

Remembering her umbrella, an idea came. He's been training to use his other senses to perceive his world. She was sure a sudden change in the sounds of the rain would gain his attention.

Opening the umbrella, she slowly approached, crossing the street as she watched him. She was halfway across when she saw him become alert to her nearing presence. He looked more curious than worried. So far, so good. He must have recognized the sounds of rain hitting the umbrella. For all he knew, she was just a passerby trying to flee the storm.

Having gained his attention, she tentatively gave a greeting, but it came out as a timid squeak. Why was she so nervous?!

His head tilted, his brow knitted in confusion. He'd heard her, but wasn't sure who she was yet. But at least she hadn't frightened him. Yet. Clearing her throat, she raised her voice and tried again.

"H… hello, Gray-sam—ah, I mean Gray-san!"

She was shocked by the bright smile he gave her. He was acting like an excited child, eager to share a treasured secret with her. He gave her a short wave hello, then looked up again, basking in the rainfall, looking pleased that there was someone there with him to experience the joy he felt.

What surprised her, though, was that for some odd reason, she felt that excitement stirring as well. Little did she know that emotions could be contagious. How could she not be encouraged by how happy he looked? This was a whole new experience for her, seeing him like this.

But she was on a mission.

"Gray-san, it's awfully cold out. Shouldn't you go inside now?"

He made a weird motion, holding his hand face down, fingers loose as they sort of swept back and forth a few times. She had no idea he was saying, "Not yet." She'd never learned Gesture Speak. He must have been so caught up in his mirth that he'd neglected that. But she'd made the same lapse in judgment. How were they to communicate with each other?

*Continue reading in link below

https://archiveofourown.org/works/34193926/chapters/86360182

[rook2020-fanworks]

As promised, here’s the first chapter of my new story!

Summary: An ordinary mission turns life threatening when Natsu’s demonic nature is forced to the surface. With the others sent to separate locations to quell the damage, Gray is left to fend off END’s rage. It’s a rematch of Gray VS END. However, while END very much wants to see his foe dead, how does a demon slayer fight a demon he doesn’t want to slay?

Excerpt: 

-Now-

When Lucy felt the lock disengage, she braced herself against the old but sturdy door, noting the steel plates Natsu had needlessly requested Gajeel to add for reinforcement. Needless, and pointless. What could steel on wood do to keep a fire demon at bay?

Of course no one, least of all Lucy, saw Natsu as any such creature. She wished she hadn't had to use that cruel bit of reasoning to persuade him to stop insisting he be locked inside his home, with both sides of the door barricaded. He must have agreed to the futility of such a plan, for she felt none of the resistance she'd come to expect from previous visits. The door gave with little protest, the cry of the hinges sounding too loud in the oppressive silence she's become all too familiar with.

He was lying on the couch, facing away like always. The breakfast Erza had dropped off earlier laid half-eaten on a plate on the floor. Just eggs and buttered toast with a side of fruit. Erza insisted he start eating more protein again, though judging with how much food remained on the plate, it's good Lucy had come with her current offerings.

"Natsu? I brought soup today. It's creamy potato and leek. Mira made it from scratch last night. I sprinkled some cheese in it, just how you like it. She sent some homemade bread, too. It's still warm." She was sure the presence of chicken broth wouldn't deter him from eating it. She hoped.

Natsu grunted, but remained still. At least he was awake. She placed the food on the window sill behind the couch. Though boarded up, maybe the scent carried by the slight draft would be enough to entice him to eat this time. She saw how he'd tensed as she leaned down, not relaxing as she pulled away. Looking around, she saw no mess to clean, nothing to allow her time to stall, to remain here longer than necessary. Had he even moved from the couch since last night?

Bending down to pick up the plate from the floor, she observed how he tried and failed to control his body's sudden jerk. She remained in that pose longer than needed, unconcerned of what he might do, needing him to sense her lack of fear, wanting him to believe her silent insistence of there being no danger here.

Finally rising and backing away to leave, she could almost feel his tension as a physical thing dissipating from him the closer she got to the door. She stepped into the sunlight cast upon the floor across the threshold, the only light in the house now, at least until she'd close the door behind her as she left. Pausing midway through the exit, she couldn't bring herself to leave without saying something more. She couldn't allow him to sit in the dark, refusing food and company, without at least letting him know how much everyone cared.

"Happy misses you. He wants you to know he understands why you sent him away, but he also says you're being a big stupid jerk for thinking it was necessary. I offered to take him fishing the other day, but he's resolved not to go again until he can go with you. Romeo says he can't wait until you're feeling better. Asuka heard him say that, and offered to draw you a get well card. Mira says she'll bring it when she stops by with dinner tonight. Everyone sends their greetings and best wishes."

Natsu gave no sign of acknowledgment. Lucy sighed, looking down as she stepped outside, closing the door to a mere crack before she stopped again. She knew he'd hear her, even with the door closed, but she wanted no confusion of her parting words.

"He asks about you every day. He wants to see you."

Pulling the door closed, she didn't see how his whole body recoiled at that quiet declaration, nor did she hear his muffled cry over the turn of the key.

**Please follow the link above to read the rest of the chapter.**

[rook2020-fanworks]

Day 30- Fall Asleep in My Lap

Caution: The angst kind of got away from me in this one. Sorry for the sad feels. I'll try to make up for it next chapter.

*(Takes place soon after chapter 7, Our Own Traumas, while he's still in the hospital. This is really early on in his recovery, and things are pretty heavy in those early chapters. There are a fair amount of spoilers from the main story in this one.)

Gray didn't mind Natsu's unusual silence as he was helped from the tiny bathroom back to his hospital bed. It felt like he was being carried more than not, but with how much weight he'd lost since his kidnapping and subsequent time unconscious, he felt a perverse sense of relief that at least he wasn't burdening him in that way. He was sure Natsu could easily feel his ribs through all the dressings as he kept him steady, his arm flung over his shoulder the only thing keeping his trembling legs from giving out.

He'd woken up just over six days ago, shocked by how weak he felt, until he'd learned how long it's been since his rescue. This trip back and forth, so he could clean up before turning in for the night, was also the first time he'd been on his feet in well over a month. His whole body was swathed in gauze and bandages, from the dressings which covered the recently implanted skin grafts across his back, to the donor sites along his legs, from which thin layers of skin had been harvested to provide the grafts; and finally, the wrappings around his eyes.

The ophthalmologist on staff had examined his eyes that morning, before the grafting procedure. That must have been the doctor's first time seeing him, as he hadn't been able to resist gasping upon pulling away the final layer of gauze. If he had apologized for his lack of poise, Gray had missed it, having tuned everything else out after that. He'd already known they were a lost cause. At least his friends who'd been present could hear the truth from the professional, and spare him the needless denials they would have expressed otherwise.

Leo, Porlyusica, and Coleman, a male nurse who had gone above and beyond to make sure he was available upon learning about Gray's anxiety towards the female staff, all stood by the bed to help get him situated. Everyone else had been ordered to leave after Porlyusica had noticed Gray's growing unease throughout the day. With all that he'd been through, there was no telling how he's been processing everything since his return to consciousness. If keeping the number of females in his presence to a minimum would ease some of his worries, she had no qualms kicking them out.

The celestial spirit had volunteered to be here, under his own power, to serve as Gray's voice. While Natsu has found his eyes give him an advantage in reading the subtle movements of one's lips, he wasn't confident in his skills just yet. Instead, he'd be the first on watch, taking care of any needs throughout the night. Meanwhile, Porlyusica observed from a short distance, at Makarov's request. She had little doubt the medical staff knew what they were doing, but for the old guild master's peace of mind, she'd give her own take on how Gray's recovery was progressing.

Coleman eased Gray down, leaning him against the already raised head of the bed, a couple of pillows at his lower back, explaining, "If you want to lay sitting up, the head needs to be raised at this angle, no lower, and no more than fifteen minutes at a time. Otherwise, you can lay flat on your sides or stomach."

Reattaching the IVs, and the electrodes of the non-magical monitoring equipment—necessary in Gray's case, due to the anti-magic seals—Coleman continued.

"You need to stay off your back when you sleep," said Coleman, "You don't want to put too much pressure on the skin grafts for too long. It'll take a while for them to get fully established, even longer than usual because of the damage to your circulatory system. Lying on them would compromise blood flow. Do you think you're likely to roll over in your sleep?"

Gray had to think about that. He wasn't sure how much he tended to move when he slept now, but he'd overheard Wendy's tearful recollections to the others when they'd all thought he was asleep, about witnessing an incident involving him suffering from possible night terrors. Taking her account under consideration, he answered.

"I'm not a heavy sleeper anymore."

...

"Okay. Well, it's best to sleep on your stomach, or on your side with plenty of pillows to prop you up, but someone would have to be here to make sure you stay off your back either way."

"That won't be an issue," said a determined Natsu.

"Good. Then if no one has any questions or concerns, I can help you get settled now so you can sleep."

"He can't stay up a little longer? It's not even eight o'clock yet," Natsu asked, disappointed.

"It's been a long day for him," said Porlyusica, "The more rest he can get, the faster he'll recover." Turning to Gray, she asked, "While you were walking, did you feel dizzy or nauseous?"

"A little. No more than I was expecting."

"It'll take a while before you're able to adjust to the new medicines they're giving you. In a few weeks, they will have figured out the proper doses. Is there any pain?"

…

They waited for a response. He tended to zone out at times, which was something they were getting used to, but this pause was longer than usual.

"... Gray? You still with us?" asked Leo.

Natsu was no expert when it came to "tells", and with Gray's eyes covered and his voice silent, he couldn't rely on eye contact or the tone of his voice to give anything away. But from his posture, and the way his hands tensed, he wondered if they were wading into rough waters right now.

"... It's nothing I can't handle."

"You're looking at years of chronic pain because of what happened," tsked Porlyusica, "If there's any discomfort, there's no reason you should have to put up with it."

"… Doctor Crenshaw and I agreed it'd be better to keep my pain at a more tolerable level, rather than blocking it altogether. She sees the benefits of preventing me from becoming too dependent on the new pain meds."

Porlyusica was too old and experienced to feel irritated at the idea that this brat was preferring the recommendations of his primary case physician over her own expertise. That was his right. But if he was choosing this path because of some misplaced pride or something just as asinine...

"Don't be stubborn," she said, "You're already taking lower doses than most would in your situation. I understand your concerns about suffering through another bout of withdrawal, but now that you're awake, we can monitor you more closely than before—"

"—Let me f*cking have this!"

Leo was just as shocked as everyone else after he'd interpreted that outburst. The anger in his visage hadn't been enough to prepare them for his delayed words.

"After all that shit I went through, I know more than I ever wanted to, of how high my f*cking pain threshold is. I can't walk on my own. I can't talk, I can't see, I can't even take a f*cking piss without missing half the time! You can at least let me decide how much pain I get to live with for the rest of my life!"

Everyone, save for Coleman, who wasn't new to such outbursts from his patients, backed off to give him space. They'd actually expected something like this to happen, but the sudden shift in his mood, and the nature of his anger was very unsettling. It would be a task for everyone to learn how to navigate around these storms.

Gray felt bad, but at the same time, he couldn't bring himself to care. All they'd seen was the aftermath of his ordeal. They thought they could tell from his injuries what had happened in the chamber, and he wasn't eager to fill in any missing details. If they wanted to think the pain alone was the issue, he was fine with that. The less for them to worry about.

Porlyusica seemed to take a moment to analyze what he'd just said, and if by chance she understood anything he wasn't saying, she chose not to share. She gave a grim nod of acceptance, and said, "Very well. If that is your wish, I will abide by it. I have no more concerns, so if you have no questions…" she waited just long enough to realize he was either ignoring her or zoning out again, "I'll leave you to your friends."

Without another word, she left.

Those left behind felt rattled. Coleman, with great patience and calm, quietly asked Gray if he was okay with his help in lying down. With Gray's quick ascent, it became obvious that he hadn't been zoning out. Leo stood aside to allow the nurse to take the lead in positioning him onto his stomach, Natsu helping in any way he was directed.

Natsu felt like the odd man out. The other two had some kind of role to play here, a purpose. He could only stand on the sidelines and assist when asked. He was the type of guy who liked to take a more proactive role in any situation. He wasn't used to just having to sit around and wait to be called upon.

"I need to see to my other patients," Coleman began as he pulled a thin sheet to just below Gray's back, "If you need anything, you already know where the call button is. I'll be on duty all night, but if I'm busy, the nurses station knows to page me, or to send another male nurse. Try to get some rest."

Coleman's exit left the other two at a loss for what to do. As Natsu had pointed out, it was still rather early in the evening. But if Gray wanted to sleep, they didn't want to disturb him. Leo wished Lucy could be here. At least she would have brought a book, and he had no problem leaving her in peace to enjoy it, with the occasional peak over her shoulders at the more juicy scenes.

As Leo watched Natsu sit in one of the provided chairs, trying to keep from fidgeting, he wondered about the nervous way he kept trying to avoid looking at Gray. A few minutes of this had Natsu huffing as he rose and, for some curious reason, very purposefully pulled the sheet to cover his back.

Whatever Natsu had been thinking escaped Leo's understanding, but if he'd thought Gray was asleep, he was proven wrong when his breath hitched, and his brow furrowed in equal parts confusion and annoyance. Natsu looked sheepish, and when he saw that Gray was trying and failing to push the offending material off of himself, Leo's curiosity grew when the dragon slayer didn't even try to assist.

Gray apparently lacked the range of motion needed to rotate his shoulders to the degree necessary to remove the sheet, so he tried pushing himself to lay on his side first. His frustration grew at how little progress he was making, and Leo was done waiting on Natsu to act. He murmured a quick, "Let me help you," as he supported his weight, placing a number of pillows wherever he needed them to lie comfortably on his side without risk of turning onto his back.

Natsu by that time had snapped out of his fugue, and had even pulled the sheet down to just below his rib cage. Gray reached for the sheet again, about to pull it further down, but paused, as if having remembered something. Sighing heavily, he released his grip, leaving the sheet where it lay, keeping his abdomen covered.

Leo didn't miss Natsu's strangely relieved face, which he shook off before stating, "Sorry about that. I thought you'd be cold like before, but I guess that hasn't been a problem since your fever broke… Um… So, I thought you were tired. Oh, I didn't wake you, did I? I didn't mean—"

"—What the Hell is wrong with you?"

"... What do you mean?"

"..."

"...You mean with the blanket? Like I said, I thought—"

"—Stop. You don't need to say if you don't want to."

"I'm not hiding anything."

"*snicker* You've always sucked at lying—Loke! Will you please just stop?!"

Leo, having repeated those words automatically, did as requested; at least he assumed he had. All he'd been doing was repeating every word that fell from Gray's lips since he'd arrived here hours before. So he stopped, then wondered.

"Okay. If you want me too. Did I say something wrong? I'm sorry if I missed anything."

"You're just a damn echo, like a bratty kid who won't stop playing at being my shadow."

"... I apologize. I've been interpreting for you all day. I forgot Natsu didn't need help in understanding you."

"..."

Now that he wasn't focused solely on his lips, Leo could see how Gray was struggling to suppress an anger that had apparently been building for a time. He supposed it was understandable how irritating it could be, having to wait for every word you were unable to speak to be repeated; at having a voice not your own say your words. They knew this was just another thing to add to the growing pile of his vexations, but they needed to get him to calm down, for the sake of his heart at the very least.

"Gray, I know things are difficult now—"

"—I'm tired. Leave me alone."

"Okay. We won't disturb you anymore. If you need anything—"

"—I need you both to go away. Leave."

…

"You know we can't do that."

"Like Hell I'm gonna want you two hovering around me, trying to be quiet, doing God knows what without my notice. I told your master how unsettling that was."

Natsu remembered that, from Gray's second day awake. He'd probably be unnerved too, if someone he couldn't see was just quietly hanging around him.

" Someone needs to be here at all times—"

"—Just one."

If that would make him more comfortable, it was an acceptable compromise.

Before Leo could volunteer to stay, Natsu spoke up.

"I'll stay."

***Please follow the link above to continue this story.

[rook2020-fanworks]

Day 10- Pillow Fight

*(Takes place shortly after the end of chapter 22, Progress)

Erza came out of the kitchen to rouse Gray from a nap, and to let him know lunch was almost ready, but paused when she found him, not on the couch where she'd left him in the dining room, but out in the living room. And for some reason, he was Gesturing frantically at someone, but no one was there. She was worried. Was he seeing something? Some kind of hallucination? He seemed upset, but not frightened as she would usually expect. No, more like… annoyed?

He stopped Gesturing, standing there calmly, as if waiting for something. Apparently, that something didn't come, so he sighed and started Gesturing again. She wished she understood enough Gesture Speak to know what he was saying, but her duties as an S-Class mage gave her little time to master a whole new language. She thought she recognized a few words here and there, but his hands were moving so quickly. He usually slowed down when talking solely to her, knowing she wasn't as adept at the language as Lucy or Wendy were.

He stopped again, and waited. Now that she wasn't focused on his hands, she observed his face and posture. It wasn't obvious before, but she could now tell he was aiming his Gestures somewhat downward, into the chair in front of him, not straight across like she'd first thought. Was his illusionary guest sitting in that chair?

Clearing her throat to let him know she was near, she waited until he turned his head towards her in acknowledgement, and asked, "Gray? Who are you talking to?"

He brushed both hands up the front of his shirt. She knew that Gesture. It meant—

"Oh thank God, you were just talking to your cat!" she exclaimed, relieved at seeing the Gesture for joy. At least his sanity, regardless of the fact that he still seemed to think his cat could understand Gesture Speak, was still reasonably intact.

He seemed a little affronted, saying something short but quick.

"Please slow down. I didn't catch all of that."

Calming down, he slowly repeated, "What's that supposed to mean?"

Getting most of that, she backtracked herself, simply brushing it off with, "No matter. It's nothing to concern yourself about." Walking around the chair, she found Joy regally sitting in it, atop the Frosch-shaped pillow that all the exceeds had given him as a get well gift last month. She seemed unbothered by the attention, looking up at her daddy with great affection as she purred in content.

"She seems pretty happy. For a moment, I thought she'd done something to upset you. Why do you look so bothered?"

The question seemed to have set him off, because his response was once again too fast for her to catch.

"Gray?"

She said his name in a way that was way more calm and collected than she was wont to do, not wanting to freak him out with any hint of anger. But the simple reminder worked, and he once again repeated himself.

"She won't give me back my pillow!"

Erza blinked, then turned her head to stare at the tiny ball of fluff, before returning her gaze back towards Gray. Was he joking? No. Judging by the still present ire on his face, he was quite serious.

"You're… fighting with your kitten… over a pillow. But she can't weigh more than three pounds soaking wet. I'm sure you could easily take it from her."

Taking a deep, calming breath, he replied, "You try."

" … Okay?" Shrugging at the ludicrousness of it all, she reached down to pick Joy up by the scruff of her neck, and paused mid-rise when the pillow followed along. To her slight amusement, Joy had her claws firmly gripped into the fabric of the pillow.

Chuckling, she said, "I see. This is no challenge. I'll just pull her away—"

Gray's frantic signals to stop were obvious, and she was once again questioning his hold on sanity, until he very clearly told her, "Don't! She'll tear it!" She swore he was about to cry, he was so worried about that silly thing.

"Oh for goodness sakes, here!" Placing the Joy-laden pillow in his hands, she commanded, "Meet me in the dining room. It's time for lunch!"

A few minutes later, she found them both sitting at the table, Joy on the surface in front of Gray, still perched on top of the Frosch pillow.

She placed a plate down nearby and waited. In seconds, Joy perked up, and released her grip on the pillow, pouncing upon the serving of homemade cat food Gray made a point of preparing once a week (with Lyon manning the stove, of course). Gray, hearing his fur baby's happy growls as she devoured her lunch, noticeably away from the pillow, picked up the exceed plush and squeezed it to his chest, relieved in its safe return unharmed.

"Now that your silly fight is over, you can eat lunch as well. And afterwards, we are taking a walk to the nearest pet groomers to have Joy's claws trimmed. Sounds good?"

"Sounds perfect. Thanks, Erza."

Smiling, she responded, "If you want to thank me, you can finally learn to not fight with your friends."

A silent laugh escaped him as he replied, "Not even the occasional pillow fight?"

Her smile broadened as she said, "So long as I'm there to keep things civil."

His own grin softened as he Gestured, "Always."

Next Prompt: Love Notes

Featuring: Gray and Joy

[rook2020-fanworks]

New Story! END vs Gray

I had an interesting plot bunny take up residence in my head last month that just had to be written, so next week, I'm gonna publish a different story. It’s my own take on what could happen during an END Natsu vs Gray battle, without interference from anyone. I wanted to play around with their respective slayer powers a little bit. This is NOT the battle during Alvarez, but a completely separate event which takes place some time later, before 100YQ. Will it be angsty? Of course. Will there be hurt/comfort? So, so much. I'm still debating how I'm gonna rate it. Awesome fights, action, and drama? I like to think so, with just a pinch of humor to round the whole thing out. 

No worries. "Quiet Game" will still remain on it's biweekly schedule, while the other story, "Fault Lines in the Sand", will be posted during the off weeks. Hey, at least for the next little while, you get a weekly update from me!

Look forward to the first chapter next week! Can't wait to share it with you!

[rook2020-fanworks]

New chapter of “Let’s Play the Quiet Game” is out!

Later that evening, Gray was sitting on the couch, perusing through a number of photo albums Lucy and Mira had put together for him. His sight had returned shortly after dinner, and due to the short duration of ethernano absorption, he estimated it would leave him again before the hour was over, judging by how he could already feel that fatigue coming on. He hoped Wendy was right about building up his levels while he slept. Then he wondered how much ethernano he could store if he simply refrained from using magic at all. He'd long ago decided to limit his sight to when he really needed it, so that wouldn't be an issue. But would he be able to resist that urge to cast his magic, just to feel that intimacy again? If it meant building his stores enough to cast more powerful spells, it's not like he was a stranger to delayed gratification.

But such concerns could wait until tomorrow. For now, he was too absorbed in going through Joy's baby album. Seriously, they'd actually put together a baby album for her, with all the milestones filled out. Date of birth, hair and eye color, size and weight; even a clipping from her first trip to the pet groomer. It's a shame she'd fallen asleep over the first album he'd gone through. Literally. She was still sprawled out over the open book. Oh well. She wasn't all that interested in looking at photos anyway.

Within the baby album was a spot on the first page designated for "Baby's First Photo". That photo happened to be the one Lucy had taken way back when Joy had first opened her eyes. She'd captured that moment perfectly. Joy looked so tiny in his hands, so fragile and delicate looking. And her eyes! But she was so adorable! Even more so now. To think he'd seriously considered never allowing himself the chance to see her.

"That's one of my favorite photos of you."

He gave Lyon a brief glance in greeting, waiting for him to sit before he actually looked at his own image. He didn't see what the big deal was. It was just his face in profile, his eyes directed not quite at Joy as he held her close. His hair fell in such a way that most of the scars around his eyes were hidden. And now the thought occurred to him that he'd yet to see his own reflection. Of course he'd visited the bathroom a couple of times since this morning, but whether consciously or not, he'd somehow managed to avoid looking straight into any mirrors. Except for images conceived through touch alone, he had no idea what he looked like, and little desire to find out.

"I like that photo, because you look so carefree and happy there. Lucy really captured a wonderful moment. I remember thinking then, how it was the first genuine smile I'd seen on your face since you came home."

https://archiveofourown.org/works/34943098/chapters/97069335

[rook2020-fanworks]

Day 25- Cuddling & Snuggling

*(Takes place right after the events in chapter 15, Abandonment)

'She's so small. I don't think she'll make it through the night. The most we can do is keep her safe and warm for the little time she has left. But will it be enough for him?'

Standing over the threshold into the dining room, Lyon looked in on Gray, who had devoted himself to the care of a stray kitten they'd found earlier that day. The vet they'd taken her to had determined she was born premature, perhaps three days ago. The mother, unfortunately, had been killed protecting her, and there were no fosters available. She'd been given a low chance of survival, but anyone who's ever met a Fairy Tail mage would soon learn that low chances were met to be challenged.

So now he was on a mission. This kitten would live. That was the only criteria for mission success.

Gray was currently trying to feed her. So far, she hasn't been receptive. She has to be hungry. The vet said to feed her every two hours. They'd had her since early afternoon, and it was going on 11 o'clock at night. There's no telling how long she'd been on her own before they'd found her. That wasn't a good sign. If she wasn't even interested in eating, she may have already given up.

Sighing in disappointment, Gray capped the bottle and placed it in his shirt pocket. He'd try again in a little while. He then tucked her into a small scrap of fleece, and held her close, cuddling her against the exposed skin of his throat to keep her warm. That was very important. She needed to stay warm.

"You should try to rest. I can tell you're fighting the sedatives. I can take over for a while."

He shook his head no. Lyon wasn't sure whether this stubbornness was coming from mere pity for such a young life about to be cut short, or because Gray was seeing a little bit too much of himself in this creature. Found cold and alone, injured in the fight that had killed her mother, blind and missing an ear. Mangled and scarred. There was definitely some method in this obsession.

Lyon was scared to death that he'd wake up tomorrow morning to find she had passed peacefully in the night, and Gray would be inconsolable.

"Okay. It's been a long day, so I'm going to turn in. Try to get some sleep." It went unsaid that he'd be checking on them off and on throughout the night.

                                                         ooooo

Lyon turned away from the clock, which read 1:12 in the morning. Easing out of bed, he padded to the bedroom door, continuing on until he reached the writing desk in the corner. From there he could see inside the dining room, wanting to avoid the few squeaky floor boards scattered between there and his current position. Quietly turning on the desk lamp, he could now see what was still making that shuffling sound which had pulled him from sleep. He was correct in his presumption that the noise was Gray pacing across the floor.

With one arm braced against a wall, leaning heavily and obviously exhausted, he walked slowly to and fro, using his other hand to keep the kitten snuggled close to his chest. At some point he'd discarded his shirt, and the poor thing was now pressed fur to skin, with that scrap of fleece held over her for extra warmth. Even with his diminished cold resistance, he still preferred to stay cooler than most, but for her sake, they'd set the ethernano powered furnace a few extra degrees higher than normal. It must have been enough to break Gray's reluctance to expose a lot more skin than he was comfortable with; or her comfort was more important to him than his own.

It's not like he wasn't used to seeing all the scars which criss-crossed throughout his skin, or the burns which took up the majority of his back, or the hollowed space where his guild mark used to be. The latter two were kept dressed in swaths of bandages, so maybe that contributed to his willingness to disrobe instead of turning down the heat. But the fact that Gray was willing to go so far out of his comfort zone for that kitten was praiseworthy.

The bottle of kitten formula was left on the table, still containing the same amount as before Lyon had gone to bed. She still wasn't eating.

His ears perked up at the sound of soft clicks, coming from Gray. He must have been trying to get a reaction from her, and that was one of the few sounds he could actually vocalize. Reaching the end of the wall, he turned around again, now facing the door, switching his hands around as he moved along, and Lyon could now see his face. The only thing holding him back, and from rushing in to pull him into a hug, was his desire to maintain this secret vigil, so as to allow Gray this private moment. But he could tell he'd been crying at some point, possibly losing hope, and fearing all this effort would prove to be in vain.

His eyes were red and swollen, and dried tear tracks were visible on his face. His lips were moving, and Lyon wished he could read them. He was confident, though, that he was either talking to himself or to her, trying to convey whatever emotion or empty promise he could think of to keep both of them going; or he was praying that she'd miraculously live, or to join her mother in peace. Lyon was already making plans on preparing another resting place in the backyard, right next to where they'd buried her mother several hours before.

Not wanting to give himself away, and fracture this fragile, sacred moment, with his own displays of emotion, he retreated back into the bedroom, silently pulled the door closed to barely a crack, and tried to keep the sounds of weeping confined to within the soft down of his pillows.

                                                           ooooo

The sound he dreaded finally came.

Reading the clock, which read a few minutes before four o'clock in the morning, Lyon girded himself for what was to come, and climbed out of bed. Through the slim opening of the door, he could still hear the heavy breathing and hissing gasps that were Gray's cries. Now he felt guilty that he'd allowed himself to fall asleep during this trying time, leaving Gray alone with the dying kitten. How long would it take for his mind to make the connection that he was now in the presence of a dead animal; something that had sent him diving deep into the throes of a panic attack just that afternoon, when he'd caught the scent of the mother cat's decay.

He'd have to discreetly and delicately remove the remains as soon as possible, before it could cause Gray to suffer another episode. But first he had to do what he could to console him. He wished he'd had the fortitude, or rather the heartlessness, necessary to have shot down Gray's desire to try to save that kitten when they'd first found her. They should have left her with the vet to have her put to sleep from the beginning, instead of setting themselves up for such a devastating disappointment.

Having earlier left the desk lamp on, he slowly walked towards the dining room, expecting to find him on the couch. Taking a few deep breaths, determined to remain strong for him, he walked into that room, having to strain to see through the little light provided from the living room. What he saw nearly had him in tears.

Of relief.

Gray was crying, but he was laughing as well. He held that tiny kitten, so small that she could barely be seen, in his hand, while he held the small feeding bottle in the other. The kitten was latched on, eating as a famished creature would, growling in her eagerness to consume. They had reason to hope, now. An animal willing to eat was an animal willing to live. Soon, the bottle was empty, which Gray confirmed with a soft shake, and his smile was one of such gratitude and accomplishment.

He placed the bottle down and brought the kitten to his face, giving her a feather-light kiss on her head, right where her missing ear should have been. He then leaned back into the couch, the kitten snuggled close, and softly petted her satisfied belly. This was honestly the happiest Lyon had seen Gray in so long, and he was inclined to believe she may have saved Gray to some degree as well.

Lyon would never be able to explain what had happened that night. Had she grown stronger the warmer she'd become? Was she paralyzed by fear before, until Gray's gentleness and reassuring presence had lessened that fear? Had she been able to sense all the care, love, and affection Gray was trying to convey, which had reignited her will to live? Perhaps God had moved upon their prayers, having found the life of such an insignificant creature worth sparing. Whatever it was, Lyon would be forever grateful for what was to him a great miracle.

Finding no reason to interrupt such a happy moment, Lyon tiptoed back into his room, hoping to salvage what little sleep he could.

                                                         ooooo

Before the crack of dawn, Lyon found himself awake, too wired to sleep any longer. For the final time that morning, Lyon rose to check on his brother and his little foundling. Though he was the one who'd found her initially, it was very apparent who'd quickly grown more attached to her.

He crept into the dining room, switching on a lamp on a side table, and smiled at what he saw.

Gray had finally fallen asleep, face down on the couch, his soft breathing the only sound in the room. That is, until Lyon heard another sound that almost escaped notice. Curled into a tiny ball, sleeping on the pillow right next to Gray's face, was the softly purring, very much alive, kitten.

Lyon grabbed a thin sheet off the back of the couch and draped it over Gray, then knelt down before the pair. The kitten was sleeping peacefully, her tiny chest rising and falling rhythmically and very reassuringly. She was snuggled up close to Gray's chin, and her thin patches of fur ruffled a little with each breath he took. Her ear flickered a little bit, causing Lyon to chuckle.

Very quietly, with tender care, he reached a hand down and gently stroked her head with a single finger. Leaning in close, he whispered, almost inaudibly, "You did well. Get some rest now."

He wasn't sure whether he'd said that to Gray, or to their new companion.

No. On second thought, he had no doubt they'd saved each other last night.

They both did very well.

Next Prompt: A New Hobby Together

Featuring: Gray, Joy, Laxus, and Asuka