The once chaotic guild hall had finally settled down after Miya's terrifying intervention. Plates were cleaned, mugs emptied, and bruises tended. Most of the Fairy Tail members gave a wide berth to Issei's group after witnessing what the mom of the group was capable of.
Makarov Dreyar, third master of the Fairy Tail Guild, stepped back inside after his meeting with the Rune Knights. He paused mid-step, blinking in mild surprise at the immaculate state of the guild hall.
Tables had been repaired. Chairs were neatly lined up. The floor sparkled from fresh scrubbing. Broken bottles and plates—of which there had been many—were nowhere to be seen.
"Huh…" He raised a bushy white brow and looked around. "What happened here?" He knows for sure he heard the sound of his children starting another of their famous brawls. But there is no sign of their roughhousing.
He noticed that even Erza was standing rigidly beside the wall, her arms stiff at her sides. Her expression was carefully neutral, but her eyes filled with fear. That was new.
Makarov narrowed his eyes. "Erza, what happened while I was gone?"
"…Nothing of note, Master." She said quickly.
Suspicion crossed his features, but the master sighed, folding his arms. "Right. And I suppose the guild cleaned itself."
Behind him, Natsu, Happy, Elfman, Cana, Jet, Dory and Gray very carefully avoided making eye contact.
"I'll ask again later," Makarov muttered under his breath.
He turned back to Erza, voice returning to a more serious tone. "I need to speak with you in my office. It's about a… situation with the Magic Council."
Erza nodded without hesitation. "Understood."
"The Council wants a formal presentation. You'll be standing before them soon." He added, glancing over his shoulder.
As Erza strode silently, Makarov's eyes turned toward the rest of the newcomers—Issei, Tamamo, Yuuka, Matsu, Karasuba, Uzume, and the rest of their extended family now calmly gathered in a corner, sitting and observing. Some with wonder on how the guild members fixed the damages.
Issei caught his eye and waved a little awkwardly. He was sandwiched between Matsu, who was fiddling with a crystal radio she had "borrowed" from someone, and Sakura, who was currently braiding strands of Uzume's hair. Tamamo sipped tea like she was already part of the furniture.
Makarov smiled. "Alright then."
He turned to the bar, where Mirajane had just finished pouring a glass of juice for one of the younger guild members. "Mira," He called out. "Do me a favor, will you?"
She looked up and smiled. "Of course, Master. What do you need?"
"I want you to give our guests a proper tour of the guild. Show them around. Let them know where they'll be staying. Might help the rest of the guild calm down too."
"Happy to!" Mira chimed, already walking toward the group. "They'll be in good hands."
"Unless we provoke Miya again," Gray muttered.
"Oh god, not again." Lucy added, still trying to glue the handle back onto her mug.
Makarov waved it all off and headed back toward his office with a sigh.
—-------------------------------
Mirajane stood before the newcomers with her hands clasped sweetly in front of her apron. "Alright, everyone! Since you'll be with us for a little while, how about I show you around?"
"Who are you?" Tamamo asked, giving her a look both intrigued and amused.
"My name is Mirajane. I'm the barmaid and a senior member," Mira said cheerfully.
Karasuba narrowed her eyes. "You look… strong."
Mira tilted her head with a playful smile. "Oh, no. I'm not a fighter."
"And Miya is just a simple housewife." Yashima says sarcastically and instinctively took a step behind Issei.
Issei sighed, standing. "Lead the way, Miss Mirajane."
"Call me Mira." She winked, which Issei blushed as it came from a beautiful girl. His harem made sure to show their displeasure by pinching his waist.
As the group followed her on the tour of the guild.
—--------------------
"The lounge is where most of us hang out when we're not on quest," Mira explained with a laugh as they passed a wide-open space filled with tables, chairs and a few injured mages icing bruises.
Aika would've called it a nerd den. Uzume called it "a pretty chill vibe."
Tamamo nodded approvingly. "I wouldn't mind reading here sometime."
"Is that… a job board?" Matsu pointed ahead, eyes lighting up as she saw dozens of mission posters pinned up on a large wooden wall.
"Yep!" Mira said proudly. "Everything from monster hunting to babysitting. Though you'd be surprised which ones end up being more dangerous."
Yashima tilted her head. "Babysitting?"
Mira deadpanned. "One word. Twins."
Issei laughed. "We've got one. That's enough danger."
—-------------------------------------------
The next stop was the guild's modest but well-stocked library. Levy McGarden was sitting at a table, nose deep in a tome, but looked up and smiled when she saw the group.
"Welcome!" she waved shyly. "If you need help reading anything—especially in the old tongue—I'm your girl!"
Matsu's entire body jolted with excitement. "You have a library!?"
"I can already feel the danger…" Issei muttered under his breath.
Mira laughed. "Matsu, this might become your favorite room. But the rules are: unless you're a member, we can't allow you to read the books. But we don't really enforce that rule."
"Thank you." Matsu echoed as she was already talking with Levy about books that explain the basics of magic.
—------------------
Finally, Mira led them to the living quarters.
Each room was cozy and designed for comfort. Several already had names pinned to the doors, but six guest rooms had been freshly prepared for their use.
"You'll be sharing," Mira said, glancing between the couples. "Though from what I've heard, you're all… rather close anyway."
Issei flushed, but Yuuka pulled him into their room with a small smile. "Let them think what they want."
Miya, ever graceful, bowed politely. "Thank you for your hospitality. Truly."
Mira waved it off with that angelic charm of hers. "It's what Fairy Tail does."
—---------------------
Now, as the day turned to night, Issei and his group had retired to the guest rooms provided by Makarov. The rooms weren't extravagant, but they were spacious, warm, and surprisingly well-kept.
Issei sat at the edge of a large bed, idly running a hand through his hair as the events of the day settled in his chest. "What do you think of this world, Ddraig?"
(It's interesting to learn that dragons exist here. I wish we could have met them. Though I do wonder what this Igneel was thinking in adopting a human child.) Ddraig responded from Issei's hand.
"What don't tell me the big dragon wouldn't be able to handle a kid." Issei jokes and teases.
(I could raise a kid, just fine.)
"Ohh, then is there a little Ddraig out in our world after you died?"
(No. Unfortunately I never did have children of my own.) Ddraig said sadly and wondered why the memory of the Chaos Dragon came to his head. (What I am trying to say is that most dragons are not the most delicate species and humans, especially children, are quite fragile. It's a miracle he hasn't been accidentally stepped on. I'm also interested in this Dragon Slayer magic. To think the dragons of this world would give such a tool to humans to kill our species.)
"Huh. You're right, that is pretty weird. But didn't the biblical god do the same thing when he created the Longinus."
(That is true. I wonder what they were all thinking. Partner, I want you to ask the boy, Natsu, to teach you this type of magic. I wonder what the result will be, it might even give you a resistance to other Dragon Slayers. As you saw during your short fight it was enough to actually break the gauntlet. That could be useful for you to be stronger.)
Issei actually thinks about it as this magic could help him protect the girls. Soon the door creaked behind him.
Yuuka slipped in first, arms crossed,. "Tired?"
He nodded. "Mentally. Not physically." He chuckled softly. "Kind of used to the chaos now."
"You're getting used to it a bit too well," Yuuka teased with a raised brow. "Honestly, you should've seen your face when Natsu dragged you into that brawl. It was like watching a puppy caught in a thunderstorm."
"Yeah, well… that puppy almost got kicked in the nuts." He muttered.
Behind her, Tamamo gracefully entered the room. She took a seat beside him on the bed, tails swaying gently behind her.
"That Natsu boy," Tamamo said. "He reminds me of you. Except even more reckless than you and with no patience."
"Please don't compare me to that hotheaded." Issei said, raising an eyebrow.
Yuuka smiled and leaned against the wall. "Still… you held your own. I think that impressed them."
"It nearly roasted me alive," Issei admitted. "If not for the Boosted Gear and Ddraig's warning, I might've taken a direct hit."
"Which means you need to train more," Tamamo said sweetly, then added in a teasing whisper, "Can't have you get beat up in front of all your wives, can we?"
Issei blushed slightly. "You could offer support, you know. Not jabs."
"I am supporting you." She said innocently. "You're alive, aren't you?"
Just then, a knock came at the door. It opened a second later—without waiting for a response—and Miya stepped in. "We'll be preparing dinner downstairs shortly. The guild's allowing us use of their kitchen, but I thought I'd check in first. Is everything alright?"
Issei looked up, warmed by her presence. "Yeah. Just… decompressing."
Miya's eyes softened. "You've done well, Issei. Keeping calm in front of guild, protecting us all."
Yuuka and Tamamo exchanged a look.
Issei stood, stretching. "Thanks. It's… it's hard, you know? Being the guy everyone looks to. I'm just a high schooler. One with a gauntlet and too many girls."
Yuuka smirked. "And don't forget your daughter."
Tamamo hummed, tilting her head. "And your fox goddess."
"And your genius, busty inventor," Came Matsu's voice as she leaned into the doorway with a smug grin. "Also, we're hungry."
Uzume popped her head in too. "Yeah, hubby. Let's have dinner."
Yuuka tugged him by the collar and pushed him toward the hallway. "Come on. Let's eat before you faint."
"I'm starting to think I was safer fighting Natsu."
—---------------------------
The next day
Up in the guest wing, a gentle knock came at the door of one of the rooms.
Issei stirred first. The warmth of soft limbs draped around him and faint tickles of pink, black and brown hair reminded him that he wasn't alone—not that he ever was these days. On his left was Yuuka, holding his arm like a plush pillow. On his right, Tamamo had curled her tails around his waist like a living blanket.
He groaned softly, rubbing his eyes. "Why does every morning feel like I'm waking up after a training match with Karasuba?"
"I heard that," Came a muffled voice from the room next door—Karasuba herself.
Issei flinched. "Why are the walls so thin in this guild?!"
Tamamo yawned delicately beside him, then nuzzled into his shoulder. "Because it's not a love hotel, dear."
Yuuka stretched, clearly waking up, but not moving from her spot. "Can't we skip the whole 'getting up' thing? Let's just pretend today's a lazy day."
"You say that," Issei muttered, "but you know the others will barge in any second."
As if on cue, a knock came again—this time followed by a familiar chirpy voice.
"Isseiiii~ Breakfast's being made! Get up before we eat everything!" Uzume called. "And next time it's my turn."
"…There it is," He sighed, slipping out of bed as carefully as he could.
Yuuka gave a reluctant groan while Tamamo pouted and muttered, "Five more minutes…"
—-----------------------------------
Downstairs in the guild's kitchen, Miya had already taken over operations, despite the Fairy Tail cooks being more than capable.
"Please, let me," She said to one of the kitchen assistants, her voice as pleasant as her eyes were commanding.
Mira, watching from the bar, smiled warmly. "She really is a natural."
Matsu was nearby, already working on enhancing a cooking stove with some sort of mana crystal converter. Trying to test her new knowledge after spending the night in the library. Poor Levy had been forced to teach her the written language and spent all day and night explaining magic to the hungry Matsu. "If I can get this interface stable, we can use less wood for stronger flames. Efficient and eco-friendly."
"You're going to explode the guild," Yuuka warned as she entered with Issei, brushing her hair back into a simple braid.
Tamamo followed shortly after, fully refreshed and humming to herself.
The moment they entered, Sakura ran over with Yashima. "Papa! Mama! We're helping!"
Akitsu was behind them, her expression blank as always, though her sleeves were rolled up as she washed rice.
"Helping by eating snacks," Miya said dryly, pinching a mochi ball from Sakura's hand before handing her a smaller one. "Eat after breakfast."
Miki and Gorou were at one of the long tables, sipping tea and chatting quietly with Macao and Wakaba. The parents were clearly fascinated by the stories of the older members' adventures.
The peaceful morning broke again with a loud thud. Natsu crashes into the guild hall, grinning ear to ear. "Issei!" He shouted. "Let's go train! I wanna see if your gauntlet can block my fire now!"
"No," Issei said immediately, not even looking up from his cup of tea.
"Aw c'mon, you can boost and stuff!"
"I'm eating," Issei muttered. "And I like not being on fire."
"Come on. We are both dragon themed fighters. Let's hang out."
Issei stops and thinks about his talk with Ddraig last night and then remembers his dad's desire to go fishing. "Alright I'll train and spar with you, but only if you can show me a good place for me and dad to go fishing."
"Is that all? Me and Happy, know the perfect place." But then the doors to the guild were opéned again.
One by one, guild members filtered into the dining area—groggy-eyed, stretching sore limbs, and murmuring about leftover bruises from last night's chaos.
But their steps slowed the moment they saw the long tables laid out in elegant rows of unfamiliar, neatly arranged dishes.
"Uh… Mira?" Macao blinked as he eyed a bowl of natto suspiciously. "Where's the usual bacon and eggs?"
Mirajane, already seated with a plate and smiling like a proud hostess, answered sweetly, "Today's breakfast was prepared by Miya. It's a traditional breakfast from their homeland."
That answer made everyone freeze.
"Miya? As in... the mask lady?" Gray asked, poking his head in cautiously.
"The one who made Erza back down?" Cana added.
"She cooked?" Jet muttered.
"I thought she only knew how to terrify people," Droy whispered.
"She was really terrifying." Lucy muttered, glancing at her plate warily.
Despite the hesitation, stomachs growled and curiosity won out. Slowly, the guild members trickled in and took their seats—though more quietly than usual. The usual morning rowdiness was absent, replaced by cautious shuffling of chopsticks and whispered observations.
Issei, seated between Tamamo and Yuuka, tried to hide his amusement. "I think they're more scared of her than they are of Karasuba."
"I'm not scary." Miya said sweetly as she passed a tray of grilled salmon, wearing her apron and a gentle smile that somehow still made grown men sit straighter.
Jet finally braved the pickled plum and widened his eyes. "Whoa… This is amazing."
"You can taste the balance in the broth!" Levy gasped, already halfway through her second bowl.
"This grilled fish melts in your mouth," Happy murmured.
"She's super talented." Lucy said, astonished.
Even Natsu, who was halfway through devouring a mountain of rice, paused. "Miyaaaaa! This stuff is great! Got any more?"
"Eat what's in front of you first, young man," Miya replied, already placing another tray down in front of him.
Just as everyone began relaxing into the meal, Karasuba's eyes scanned the room again. "...Where's the redhead?" She asked suddenly.
The chatter paused.
Issei blinked. "You mean Erza?"
Karasuba nodded, spearing a piece of daikon radish. "She's the only one in this place worth a proper fight."
A hush fell over the table as Makarov entered the hall, arms raised in a yawn. He paused, sniffed the air, then gave a grunt of pleasure. "Oho? What's this delightful aroma?"
Mirajane rose to greet him. "Miya prepared today's breakfast."
Makarov's eyes lit up. "Well, well, she's full of surprises." He shuffled over to the nearest plate and sat down beside Issei's father, Gorou. "I'll take a bit of everything."
As he began to eat, Issei spoke up. "Master, where's Erza? Will she be joining us?"
Makarov sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Ah. She was summoned to appear before the Magic Council this morning. They want her to give an official report about Eisenwald and the flute incident. She should return by tomorrow."
That answer brought a visible frown to Tamamo's face. "And you trust her enough to go alone?"
"Erza's handled them before," Makarov assured her.
Karasuba grinned. "Pity. I wanted a rematch."
Makarov took a bite of the grilled fish and closed his eyes with a satisfied groan. "Mmm… By the gods, this is divine. If you ever leave your home world, Miya, you're hired as Fairy Tail's personal chef."
Miya chuckled behind her sleeve. "Flattery will get you seconds, Master."
—-------------------
The bustling heart of Magnolia's shopping district came alive with the sounds of bells and voices.Storefronts proudly displayed glittering wares meant to impress even the pickiest mage or richest noble.
Lucy Heartfilia led the way, her blonde ponytail bouncing as she chatted animatedly with Levy McGarden, pointing out popular boutiques and magical shops.
Trailing behind them were a Misuki, ever sharp-eyed and calculating; Uzume, practically glued to the shop windows with stars in her eyes; Matsu, scribbling furiously in her notebook while muttering formulas under her breath; and Yashima, her movements small and nervous as she followed, occasionally pausing at displays like a shy tourist.
"Oh my God," Uzume gasped, stopping dead in her tracks in front of an upscale boutique. "Look at these threads!"
Mannequins lined the front window, modeling robes that shimmered with runes woven into the fabric itself. Dresses that floated slightly off the floor. Suits that shifted color depending on your mood. And accessories—bracelets, earrings, chokers—that pulsed with gentle magical auras.
Levy leaned closer to the glass and tapped it. "That ring? It's got a silence spell woven into it. The wearer can block all sound for a few seconds. Great for concentration... or sneaking."
Uzume's eyes widened. "These enchantments are stitched right into the fabric. This is amazing!"
Matsu hummed as she scribbled in her notebook, eyes darting over the stitch patterns and energy signatures. "Hmm… Three-layer mana threads. Intermediate inscription runes. Resistance enchantment. I can absolutely reverse-engineer this."
"Don't say that out loud," Lucy whispered, glancing nervously at a nearby mage clerk who was fluffing scarves enchanted to change temperature based on the weather.
Meanwhile, Misuki stood near a rotating platform that displayed a shifting outfit—a blouse turned into a corset, then into a sleeveless battle tunic, then into a sleek business dress. She crossed her arms and tapped her chin, calculating.
"An entire machine that can automatically make clothes." She murmured. "And then mass-producing them? Uzume… we might need to bring some of these back home. Imagine having this sort of variety for the store—automated versatility."
Yashima hesitantly reached for a wide-brimmed sunhat resting atop a display. "Um… do I… look okay?" She asked shyly as she placed it on her head.
Lucy turned with a wide smile and clapped her hands together. "You look adorable. It suits your vibe."
Yashima blushed, the compliment clearly overwhelming her. "T-thank you…"
Uzume, now clutching a magical belt that slimmed your figure and adjusted your posture, sighed. "I want all of this…"
"Let's just get a few things to start with and—"
"—We can't," Misuki interrupted, frowning at the glass price tag on a pair of magical boots that hovered inches off the ground. "We don't have any of this world's currency."
Uzume and Yashima both turned with crestfallen faces.
"What?" Uzume whined. "But I want this color changing silk!"
Matsu tapped the back of her pen on her temple. "We don't even know the conversion rate between yen and whatever this place uses."
Lucy and Levy exchanged looks.
"Right…" Levy began, rubbing the back of her neck. "I forgot. You guys aren't exactly locals."
Lucy stepped in helpfully. "You can gain money from questing. If you're a registered mage with a guild like Fairy Tail, you can accept official requests from townsfolk, nobles, or businesses. Anything from monster-hunting and cargo protection to, uh, baby-sitting. Complete it, and you get paid in Jewels."
"Jewels?" Misuki echoed. "That's the currency?"
"Yep," Lucy nodded. " Most of us live entirely off the pay from missions. But if you don't feel like doing that, I'm sure we can find a job opening in one of these stores."
Uzume perked up. "Wait. You're saying that if we just... join the guild and do jobs, we can earn money and then buy all the magical fashion we want?"
"That's… the idea," Levy giggled. "Welcome to freelance mage life."
Misuki turned back to the rotating wardrobe. "Hmm. We'd need to register then. Build up credibility. Start small. But this is doable."
Matsu closed her notebook. "These are acceptable terms."
Yashima hesitated. "But are we even allowed to join?"
Lucy smiled. "That's up to Master Makarov. But he's already let you stay as guests. And Fairy Tail? We don't judge backgrounds. If you've got the heart, I'm sure you will be welcomed."
Uzume's eyes sparkled like she'd just won a lifetime discount card. "Then I'm in. Time to earn those shopping funds."
—-----------------------
"I'm telling ya!" Natsu grinned wide, thumbing toward the winding forest path. "It's the best fishing spot in all of Fiore! I come here whenever I want to relax—or take a nap."
"Aye!" Happy chimed in, floating beside him. "We even caught a fish this big last time!"
"You dropped it before we could weigh it," Natsu mumbled.
"You scared it when you sneezed fire!" Happy huffed.
Behind the duo, the rest of the group followed with a mixture of curiosity and amusement. Issei, decked out in casual clothes with Sakura over his shoulders, walked between his parents—Miki and Gorou—feeling oddly at peace.
"It's been a while," Issei said softly, glancing at his dad. "Since we did anything like this."
Gorou smiled, adjusting his fishing gear. "Too long. Glad we're getting the chance now. Even if we're… y'know, in a world with flying cats."
Miki chuckled beside them. "At least no one's trying to kill us. That's progress."
"Papa, that bird has so many colors." Sakura pointed with wide eyes at the strange birds, using her new height to see different animals.
Further behind, Tamamo, Yuuka, Miya, and Akitsu walked together, each throwing occasional glances at Issei, who was too caught up in his conversation to notice.
Tamamo flicked a fox tail thoughtfully. "We should use this chance. Fishing is slow… perfect time to cozy up."
Yuuka narrowed her eyes. "You mean flirt shamelessly."
"Exactly," Tamamo said with a grin.
Akitsu blinked slowly. "I also want to flirt with Ashikabi-sama."
Miya gave a serene smile. "Then we'll take turns. No pushing."
"Don't forget me," Karasuba said from the back, arms folded, walking with visible boredom. "I'm only here because he is."
"You could at least pretend to enjoy this peaceful day." Miya said lightly.
Karasuba scoffed. "This is me pretending."
—---------------------------------
The Lake
Eventually, the path opened to a breathtaking lake tucked between rocky cliffs and dense trees. Its water was crystal clear, reflecting the blue sky like glass. The shore was lined with smooth rocks and tufts of grass. Dragonflies hovered above the surface, and a few ripples indicated fish below.
"See?" Natsu declared proudly, spreading his arms. "Told ya it was perfect!"
Issei stepped up beside him and nodded. "I'll give you that. It's beautiful."
"It's so pretty." Sakura chimed as she looked at the lake. Issei soon lets her down and Sakura is quick to chase the dragonflies.
"Alright!" Happy cheered, already flinging his tiny line into the water. "Let's catch dinner!"
The group quickly spread out. Issei sat on a large, flat rock at the water's edge. His father joined him, the two casting their lines together in practiced rhythm. The silence between them was easy, comforting.
"You've grown up a lot," Gorou said quietly.
Issei blinked. "You think so?"
"You used to freak out if a worm touched you. Now you're traveling dimensions and keeping a family together."
Issei laughed. "I still hate worms."
Behind them, Miki chuckled softly while keeping her distance, chatting with Miya who was expertly laying out snacks.
Meanwhile, Tamamo gracefully settled herself at Issei's side, offering him a rice ball. "Eat while you fish, darling. You'll need energy."
"Oh… thanks," He muttered, cheeks a little pink.
Yuuka slid down on his other side, pretending to fix her rod but clearly inching closer. "If he eats your food, Tamamo, that doesn't mean he loves you more."
Tamamo sipped her tea. "Of course not. He loves me more for other reasons."
"I am right here," Issei said between bites.
"Noted," Akitsu said, suddenly appearing behind him and sitting down without a word, quietly leaning against his shoulder.
"…You're very sneaky," Issei muttered.
"I am cold. You are warm."
Natsu, watching all this with wide eyes from a few feet away, nudged Gorou. "Is this normal?"
Gorou just laughed. "This is mild."
Happy flew over to Karasuba, who hadn't even picked up a pole yet. "Aren't you gonna fish?"
She sat cross-legged on a boulder and closed her eyes. "I don't need fish. I'm here for the view."
Happy blinked. "What view?"
Karasuba opened one eye and smirked toward Issei's direction. "You wouldn't get it."
Hours Later
The afternoon sun shimmered across the lake. Lines tugged. Fish flopped. The scent of cooked rice and grilled vegetables filled the air. Laughter echoed among the trees.
Gorou reeled in a fat, silvery fish. "That's number three for me!"
"Show off," Natsu grumbled, having caught exactly zero.
"Let's just cook what we have," Tamamo said, already lighting a fire with a few magical gestures.
Miya and Miki teamed up at the makeshift grill, preparing the fish with practiced grace. Akitsu cleans the fish with disturbingly efficient knife work, Sakura looks at what Akitsu did and turns a bit green at seeing the blood and guts. While Karasuba finally uncrossed her arms and wandered closer—lured by the smell.
Issei watched them all, warmth growing in his chest. "Yeah," He murmured, smiling to himself. "This… is a good day."
—---------------------------------
The orange glow of late afternoon followed the group as they made their way back through the bustling streets of Magnolia. The warm laughter of children, the creak of shop signs in the breeze, and the clatter of carts filled the air.
At the front of the group walked Gorou, positively beaming, a string of freshly caught fish slung over one shoulder.
"That was the most fun I've had in years," He said proudly, patting Issei on the back. "Did you see the size of that trout? I thought it was going to bite me!"
"We did," Miki said with a soft laugh. "You screamed."
"Grandpa made a funny face." Sakura cheered.
"Like a hero," Gorou declared.
Behind them, Tamamo, Yuuka, Miya, Akitsu, and Karasuba walked at a leisurely pace, the satisfaction of a relaxing day evident even on Karasuba's normally stoic face. Happy floated lazily beside them, holding a smaller fish in his paws, nibbling contentedly.
"I still say that fireball fishing would've worked," Natsu muttered.
"No one wants roasted scales," Tamamo said without turning her head.
They rounded the corner toward the guild, where the large doors of Fairy Tail stood open. Inside, voices echoed, laughter rang out—and so did the sound of heavy boots.
As they stepped in, they were surprised to find the rest of their family had just returned as well.
Misuki, Uzume, Matsu, Levy, Lucy, and Yashima stood in the center of the guild hall, arms crossed or hands on hips, looking equal parts frustrated and thoughtful.
Uzume spotted them first. "Hey! Fishing party! Get over here."
Issei walked up, eyebrow raised. "What happened? You all look… mildly disappointed."
"We went shopping," Matsu said flatly, waving a notebook in one hand. "Found some amazing magical machines—outfits that change with the push of a button, some accessory enchantments I could tinker with and a few magic books on casting and chanting."
"And?" Tamamo prompted.
"We couldn't buy any of it," Misuki added. "Because we don't have the local currency."
"We even tried seeing if we could work out a trade, but…" Yashima rubbed the back of her neck. "They don't exactly seem thrilled for a change."
The group fell into thoughtful silence. Even Gorou's fishing joy dulled slightly as he glanced at his wife and daughter.
"Damn…" Issei muttered. "That stuff would've helped with the store, too."
Matsu pouted. "The tech alone is drool-worthy…"
Natsu scratched his head. "Uh… you do know how people make money here, right?"
The group turned toward him.
Natsu pointed a thumb at the guild crest hanging high above the bar. "Join a guild. Take quests. Complete them. Get paid. Simple!"
Happy floated up behind him. "And if you're gonna join one, why not the best one?"
"Fairy Tail," Natsu and Happy said in unison, puffing their chests out proudly.
Yuuka folded her arms, nodding thoughtfully. "That… actually makes sense."
Tamamo tilted her head. "It would also ease the burden of relying too heavily on the guild's hospitality."
"Exactly," Yuuka said. "Makarov's been nothing but kind, but it's better if we contribute."
Issei rubbed his chin. "It's not like we can keep living here. It's all temporary."
Miki stepped forward. "And maybe… we should build something more stable while we're here."
Everyone turned toward her.
"I'm not saying we're abandoning our world," She continued. "But we don't know how long we'll be in Earthland. Having a proper roof over our heads, one we own, would be smart."
Miya nodded sagely. "And if we're joining a guild, we need to decide who should. Some of us aren't combat-oriented or want to fight."
They looked between each other—each member weighing their strengths, their desires, and what made the most sense.
"I'm joining," Issei said immediately. "I've got the Boosted Gear, I've been training, and... well, Ddraig probably wants some action again."
(I would prefer seeing you actually fight something, Patner.)
"I will too," Said Karasuba, cracking her knuckles. "If there's battle, I'm in."
"I want to help," Yashima spoke up next, her voice soft but sure. "I've trained enough. I want to support our family."
Uzume stepped forward, striking a playful pose. "You know I'm not missing out on adventuring with hubby."
Akitsu simply nodded. "I follow Ashikabi-sama."
"I'm in." The room turned to Yuuka, who met their gaze evenly. "I said it from the start." She said, giving Issei a side-smile. "If you're diving into danger, I'm diving with you."
Matsu gave a dramatic sigh. "I'm joining but only to continue having access to their library."
Tamamo laughed. "You're not the type for roughing it."
Matsu huffed. "I could be!"
Sakura raised her hand. "Can I go too?"
"No," Issei and Tamamo said in unison.
"Maybe when you're older," Issei added.
Sakura pouted and leaned into Akitsu. "Mama Akitsu, convince them."
Tamamo soon goes to meet her daughter at eye level. "How about staying here with Mama. I believe we should continue your class on magic."
"Really!" Sakura responded excitedly.
"Yup. But that means you will be good to papa and wait here with me." Tamamo says with a smile.
"Okay!" Sakura agrees causing Issei and Akitsu a sigh of relief.
—--------------------
Issei Hyoudou walked with purpose, each step echoing faintly across the polished floorboards. His nerves curled in his chest.
Beside him, Yuuka walked in perfect sync. Her expression was composed, almost serene. Behind them followed the others—Karasuba with a predatory smirk, Uzume bouncing on the balls of her feet with suppressed energy, Yashima calm but focused, Matsu reading another book that she took from the library, and Akitsu, silent and unreadable, but every inch prepared.
The rest of the family had come to support them: Tamamo, cradling Sakura on her hip, Matsu scribbling something onto her portable notepad, Miya, serene and observant, Gorou, cheerful and proud, and Miki and Misuki, their eyes soft with parental pride and quiet curiosity.
Issei paused at the heavy wooden door, glanced back once at the faces of those who had come to mean everything to him, and gently knocked before easing it open.
Inside, Makarov Dreyar sat behind a desk stacked with ledgers, old tomes, and an open letter that curled slightly at the edges. A chipped teacup steamed faintly beside his elbow. The old man looked up as he heard the opening of his door.
"Well now," He said, leaning back with a creak of wood. "You all look like people who've just made a big decision."
Issei stepped forward, shoulders straight. "Master Makarov… we've come to ask officially. We want to join Fairy Tail."
A heavy silence followed. Not oppressive—but weighted, like something sacred.
Makarov's bushy brow lifted slightly, though there was no real surprise in his expression. He looked at them like a grandfather seeing a grandchild choose their path.
"Oh? What brought this on, I wonder?"
Yuuka took a step forward, voice calm but sincere. "Since arriving here, we've been treated with more kindness than we could have asked for. Shelter and food. But we don't want to stay as just guests."
"We want to stand on our own feet and contribute. Earn what we need through honest work." Issei added, glancing around at his companions.
For a long moment, Makarov studied them. His gaze didn't waver as he looked each one in the eye—from Issei's determined stare to Akitsu's blank expression, to Karasuba's restless anticipation.
Then, finally, he chuckled. "Well said, lad."
With a low groan and a stretch of his back, Makarov rose from his chair, his short frame still commanding the room. "Alright then. No fancy speeches. No unnecessary tests. If you want to be part of Fairy Tail, then we welcome you."
He motioned with his hand. "Come on. Let's go make it official."
—-------------------------
The Fairy Tail guild hall was alive with sound—mugs clinking, laughter echoing, and the subtle strum of a bard playing softly in the corner. But amid the usual chaos, the moment Makarov approached the bar, a ripple of attention followed in his wake.
Mirajane, ever radiant, perked up behind the polished wooden counter, her smile as welcoming as sunlight after rain.
"We're getting new members?" she asked, clapping her hands together in delight, her sapphire eyes sparkling with excitement.
Makarov nodded, his tone jovial but proud. "Indeed. A group from another world, no less. Let's give them the full welcome. Get the stamp kit."
Mirajane practically glided as she turned and pulled a polished, rune-carved wooden box from beneath the bar. Setting it on the counter with reverence, she opened it to reveal a collection of enchanted ink bottles, an ornate guild stamp, and a palette of magical hues glowing softly.
"Alright, everyone!" she called out cheerfully. "Where do you want your Fairy Tail symbol?"
The room fell quieter as the newcomers gathered, some glancing at each other uncertainly.
Yuuka blinked, her brow furrowing. "Wait. You mean an actual tattoo?"
Mirajane tilted her head, laughing lightly. "Oh no, sweetie! It's a magic stamp—completely painless. No needles. Just a beautiful mark that shows your bond with the guild."
Issei scratched the back of his neck, glancing down at the magic crest in the box. "Still… where we're from, this definitely looks like a tattoo. Our teachers would flip out."
"And our classmates would never stop asking about it," Yuuka groaned, folding her arms. "They already think we're dating, married, and raising a kid. This would not help."
"Sounds like fun to me," Karasuba chimed in with a grin, cracking her knuckles. "Let them gossip. It's more fun when people don't know the full truth."
Issei rolled his eyes affectionately. "Fine, fine… I'll take it here." He tapped his chest over his heart. "Left side. Easy to hide under the uniform."
"Same spot for me," Karasuba said with no hesitation.
Yuuka bit her lip and pointed to her lower stomach. "There. I can hide it with my blouse. Nobody at school should see it."
Yashima, still blushing faintly, lifted her sleeve. "My shoulder. Please…"
Uzume gave a playful wink and gestured to her hip. "Somewhere stylish, of course~ Can't ruin the silhouette!"
"Here, just add it to my hand." Matsu states.
Akitsu didn't speak. She simply extended her wrist, sleeve falling back, exposing pale skin as she silently waited her turn.
Mirajane hummed a cheerful tune as she carefully took the enchanted stamp and dabbed it in each chosen ink. She pressed it to each person's skin with gentle precision, her magic flaring in warm pulses. One by one, the Fairy Tail crest appeared in vivid colors unique to each member:
Red for Issei. Black for Karasuba. Blue for Yuuka. Soft Pink for Yashima. Deep magenta for Uzume. Pale blue for Akitsu. And orange for Matsu
The colors shimmered for a moment before settling—vivid crests now imprinted on each of them, a bond made real in glowing magic.
"There," Mirajane said with a satisfied smile. "You're now officially part of Fairy Tail."
There was a moment of silence as the group stared at their marks. Even Karasuba, who had worn many badges of violence in her life, traced her crest with an almost thoughtful expression.
Tamamo watched from the side, arms crossed but a soft smile on her lips. "Well, look at you all… wearing another world's mark like you were born to it."
"I feel… honored," Yashima said softly, eyes shimmering.
Issei chuckled. "Honestly? Feels kinda cool."
Behind the counter, Mirajane leaned toward Makarov and whispered with a wink, "They're going to shake things up around here."
Makarov chuckled and stood before the guild and raised his hands. "These six are no longer just guests. They are now our comrades—our Nakama! Welcome them, to Fairy Tail!"
A cheer exploded through the hall.
"Drinks on me!" Macao roared, nearly knocking over a table as he raised his mug high.
"You said that last week!" Shouted Wakaba, already reaching for the bottle.
"Don't drink all the alcohol again, Cana!" Mirajane called out from behind the bar with a laugh, her usual sweetness edged with practiced authority.
"Fairy Tail style, baby!" Shouted Cana, slamming an empty barrel beside her and popping the cork off a new one.
Issei stood stunned for a second, watching the chaos unfold. Then Uzume grinned, slinging an arm around his shoulder. "This place really knows how to party."
"Let's see how long they can keep up," Karasuba muttered, though even she had a smirk tugging at the corner of her lips.
Yashima smiled shyly and waved at a group of cheering members near the wall.
Akitsu simply nodded in quiet approval, her new guild mark glowing faintly on her arm.
Yuuka slipped her hand into Issei's, squeezing it gently. "Looks like we're really part of something now."
Issei looked around at the hall full of laughter. He nodded. "Yeah. Feels right."
As was tradition… the celebration lasted exactly ten minutes before turning into a full-on brawl.
"Natsu—NO—!"
Too late.
Natsu lunged forward and grabbed Issei in a headlock, grinning like a maniac. "As tradition, you gotta survive your welcome party!"
"I didn't agree to—ACK!" Issei choked, flailing as the Fire Dragon Slayer noogied him with unmatched enthusiasm.
Gray, shirt mysteriously vanished, launched a mug across the room. "Heads up!"
Karasuba, quick as ever, caught the airborne cup in one hand, spun it once between her fingers, and hurled it back like a missile. It whizzed past Happy, who screamed and dove for cover—nearly losing his fish in the process.
"Watch the food, lady!" Happy squawked, clutching his meal.
"Can't you people not fight for once?" Yuuka groaned, ducking as a chair flew overhead. She straightened her jacket with a sigh. "It's like dealing with toddlers with superpowers."
The rest of the Fairy Tail guild needed no encouragement. Cana started downing drinks like ammunition, using empty mugs as projectiles. Elfman shouted "THIS IS MANLY!" and charged into the fray like a freight train. Levy ducked behind the bar, giggling nervously, while Matsu, observing the madness, took notes on combat patterns as if it were a scientific study.
Soon, the newcomers were swept into the madness.
Uzume was flipping between dodge and dance moves, laughing as she blocked blows with a coat hanger she found nearby.
Yashima panicked and apologized to every person she accidentally bumped into.
Akitsu silently froze someone's drink midair and handed it back with a flat stare.
And through it all, Issei was still trying to get out of Natsu's grip. "This is not how welcome parties are supposed to go in my world!"
Amid the whirlwind of chaos, one person remained seated.
Miya.
She sipped her tea gracefully at a far corner table, expression calm but slowly… twitching. Her eyes drifted to a shattered plate. Then to a toppled table. Then to someone—was that Gray?—swinging from the ceiling beams.
Her smile trembled.
"That's enough."
It wasn't loud or angry.
But it sent a chill through the room.
Then came the mask—her infamous Hannya visage sliding into place with terrifying serenity.
The entire guild froze mid-brawl.
Natsu stopped mid-swing.
Gray slowly put down a chair he was about to throw.
Cana spat out her mouthful of beer.
Even Erza, who had just returned from the Council, paused with one boot inside the doorway and turned pale.
The tension could be sliced with a butter knife.
Then, just as casually, Miya removed her mask, smoothed her sleeves, and sat back down. "Thank you."
Silence lingered like fog.
Finally, Mirajane leaned over to Lucy, her voice a whisper.
"She's scarier than Erza."
Lucy nodded slowly, still sweating. "Way scarier…"