The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow across the coastline of Magnolia. The waves lapped gently at the shore, a soothing rhythm that contrasted with the battles and chaos that had consumed Fiore just days before. You sat beside Laxus Dreyar on a smooth, sun-warmed rock, the two of you soaking in the peace that had been so hard-won.

Laxus leaned back, his hands propping him up as he gazed out over the water. His presence, always so strong and electric, felt different now—calmer, more introspective. The years had changed him, softened the edges that once made him so distant, but the fire in his eyes remained.

— Ya know, He began, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth.

— I’ve been hearing your name all over Fiore lately. ‘The Hero of Magnolia,’ they’re calling you.

He turned his head, his sharp blue eyes meeting yours for a few moments before extending his thick arms into the air, stretching with a thick groan before twisting over to lay down his head on your lap while his legs relaxed softly on the warm, smooth rock. His gaze faced the night sky, the shining stars twinkling in the dark. A combination of the stars, the moon, and your eyes as well.

— Kinda makes me wonder if I should be a little jealous. Laxus chuckled, the sound deep and familiar, a vibration that seemed to resonate with the very air around him.

Soon, he slid his hand over to yours, carefully holding it and placing it over his face. He gave it a little kiss, before placing your hand over his chest, softly covering it with both of his hands now.

— Maybe, but it’s different. They talk about you with this... admiration. Like you’re some kinda legend. Not that you aren't-... you know. He paused, his expression shifting to something more serious, almost vulnerable.

— And it makes me think about what I could’ve lost if I hadn’t come back to Fairy Tail when I did.