Fairies Arise (Fairy Tail Next Generation)

Chapter 17: Echoes of Unity

Nashi stared in awe. She knew the red-headed woman as "Aunt Erza", the fun but stern family friend who loved strawberry cake. She's never seen her so austere. Erza's prescence emitted an aura of power that everyone in the guild seemed to respect. As Nashi observed her guild master, she came to the conclusion that Erza was under considerable stress. Her posture seemed to be tensioned, her arms were crossed and her eyes — Nashi shivered — her eyes were hostile. Erza glared around the whole guild. The air thicked with unease as everyone knew they were in for a lecture.

"Listen up, everyone. I know we're a family, and that means we sometimes get carried away, but this is unacceptable. We're stronger together, but that strength must come with responsibility."

Erza locked eyes with Cedric.

"Fighting among ourselves only weakens us. We're here to support one another, not tear each other down. Each of you has the power to inspire and protect, and that includes knowing when to step back and resolve conflicts without resorting to violence. We've faced countless enemies, and we'll face more in the future. If we can't trust each other, we'll fall apart when it matters most. I expect you all to reflect on this and find better ways to communicate."

With a final, fierce gaze, she added:

"We are Fairy Tail. Let's show everyone what that truly means—together."

Guild members raised glasses and cheered. Cedric held out his hand to Nova and she reluctantly shook it. 

"Wow...that was...intense.", Nashi whispered. She expected worse, as Erza's mere presence was enough to shush the guild. But she had never known Erza's wrath before.

"You should have seen when your brother broke the treasure he was supposed to locate.", responded Dune without taking his eyes off the book he was holding.

"Oh, come on. You told me you had let it go already.", Igneel complained.

"If you hadn't insisted on coming with me, I would have handled it perfectly fine.", the dusty-haired boy said, putting down the flowers and the book. "You know that I work alone and that I only take those types of jobs. I know how to deal with relics."

"Dune has decided he wants to dig around in the dirt for a living . Apparently, uncovering ancient bones and artifacts is his idea of a dream job.", Arizona explained to Nashi in her ear.

"So, an inspiring arquelogist, huh? Have you found anything recently that has challenged your perspective on history?", asked Nashi in an attempt to defuse the to-be-fight. Her question seemed to take Dune by surprise, as he went red and fumbled on his bracelets. He ranted on a bit about the ancient people of Earth Land and their relationship with dragons, though. Nashi smiled as he went on his lecture. She enjoyed the boy's enthusiasm. 

"Hey, everyone. Breakfast ran a little bit late today. I hope I didn't miss anything important.", Alette said arriving at the table. She must have learned from her mistake yesterday and wore an off-white sweater and a floral skirt. She was carrying Nashi's jacket that she wore to walk home.

The six guild members worked on their floral arrangments, following instructions and guidance from books made available by Cedric. 

"You know, it's like each arrangement tells a story through its shapes and the empty spaces, reflecting the complexities of existence.", contemplated Nashi to the group.

"I can almost feel the energy of the plants guiding us. It's a reminder that, just like in life, balance and harmony are key. I can't wait to see how everyone interprets these materials! Each arrangement will be a reflection of our unique perspectives.", exclaimed Alette, looking over at everyone's pot.

"Who knew art could be this therapeutic? Just don't ask me to talk about my feelings while we're at it — I'm still trying to figure out how to keep my houseplants alive.", mumbled Storm.

It was soon lunchtime and the table enjoyed their meal. They munched on spicy cauliflower bites and discussed how the past shapes the present. The conversation deepened as they explored how societal norms affect their lives, with Storm's cynicism being challenged while Alette offered a more empathetic view, suggesting that change is gradual and requires patience. The six exchanged ideas about literature, nature, and the complexities of human behavior, ultimately finding common ground in their desire for deeper connections and understanding.