#fairytailxreaderinsert

Warning - Graphic depictions of violence, blood

Y/N's POV

"Y/N... Y/N"

I heard a soft voice calling out to me but could not pin-point who it was. I like the voice, but who would be in my bedroom? Oh right.. I'm on a mission with Mystogan. Mystogan!

I sat up so abruptly, I collided with something.

"Ow"

"Ow"

Rubbing the sleep out of my eyes I saw Mystogan standing next to my bed, rubbing his head.

"Oh god I'm so sorry! Are you alright?", without thinking I stood to reach up and inspect his head.

"I'm alright, it's my fault for standing here," he chuckled but I swear I could see the faintest blush reach just up to his eyes.

Upon taking a closed look I could see that he was already full dressed, only missing his cloak. Even though his face was concealed by his mask I couldn't help but find him handsome. I must be out of my mind.

Without the cloak it was visible that although the tall man wasn't exactly brawny, he was rather well-built.

My eyes couldn't help but hover over his muscular arms covered in bandages as well as the abs showing the slightest bit through his dark shirt. Strands of his thick, blue hair fell into his eyes and that's where my gaze halted. Those dark green eyes were sharp but never held anything bus respect and warmth when they look at me.

Suddenly I felt guilty. Yesterday I assured him that I do not mind the mask, but now I'm overcome with the urge to rip it off his face. Get a grip Y/N.

I averted my gace quickly, hoping that Mystogan did not notice me staring. If he did, he did not show it.

"you did not exagerrate when you said you are a heavy sleeper," the man chuckled as he handed me my morning overcoat.

Only then did I notice that I was only wearing my nightgown.

"I'm terribly sorry. I only ever seem to trouble you," I hid my face in my hands.

"Don't say that," and not knowing what else to say Mystogan added, "Why don't we have breakfast and then you can show me the place where the latest monster attack occurred."

Giving him a nod I decided to let go of my embarassment for now and prepare for todays mission.

3rd POV

After breakfast the two mages left for the outskirts of town. Mystogan once again took notice of how different Y/N looked in contrast to her casual outfits.

Her H/C hair was tied up for convenience and she wore a F/C turtleneck top. Underneath the dark brown boots she wore black overknee thighs that ended only inches before her dark shorts. Between shorts and thighs, leather straps held two pouches in place. Her slender wrists and fingers were covered by gloves that only revealed her fingertips and a dark cloak protected her from the cold wind.

Not wanting to stare at his new partner for too long, Mystogan cleared his throat, "We're almost out of town. Please stay near me for now. We don't know what might await us."

"Alright, but please don't worry too much about me", Y/N reassured.

Outside the city borders a mountainous landscape awaited. Y/N took out her map and led Mystogan to the area of the reported monster attack. Once they arrived it was hard to miss. Fallen trees and snapped branches littered the ground.

The mages made their way to the center, careful not to trip over any of the rubble.

"Luckily only a few people were injured. They heard the monsters from afar and were able to make a run for it", Y/N explained as she inspected the surroundings.

"It looks like after they were here the monsters spread out in different directions, this makes it hard to say in which direction their nest is. If we're lucky it would be close to the guild quaters", the blue-haired mage deducted.

"Say, do you believe that the monsters are all gathered in the same place now?", Y/N questioned.

"I do think so. It appears they become most active starting evening which would mean that they are resting at this time. Why do you ask?"

"Should I locate them then?", the girl grinned at him.

Mystogan came to a halt and looked at his companion with mild surprise, "Can you?"

Y/N looked around and saw the bloodied spots on the ground and rocks in the area. She had heard that the citizens were out here to harvest fruit from the trees and collect herbs. But some of them also brought guns to protect the group from beasts. The guns didn't do much to fend off the monsters on their tail but it would be realistic to say that they must have at least lost a few drops of blood here.

Y/N really didn't know where this courage came from but Mystogan has been nothing but considerate and understanding towards her. She wanted to see if maybe she could show him this part of her. How was it fair for her to hope that the man would take off his mask for her if she wasn't willing to do the same?

"If I find even a drop of blood I can trace their current location", she explained while moving towards a bloodied spot on the ground. When her fingertips came in touch with the dried-up substance Mystogan approached her slowly, "May I watch?"

Y/N surpressed a smile, "You may", is all she said in response before drawing a magic circle into the ground covered in blood. Her eyes were closed when she muttered a spell. She turned to Mystogan and pointed her finger, the dried blood still evident on the tip, towards the forest entry. "It's this way."

The two made their way through the woords in silence as Y/N led the way.

"We're getting close", she whispered watching her fingertip that seemed to guide the way on it's own. Perhaps it did.

Mystogan nodded before using his arm to shiled Y/N's face from the branches as they entered a narrow path.

After several more minutes Mystogan was taken by surprise when Y/N pushed him into a tree. "We're there", she whispered.

The man followed her gaze beyond the tree to see a shallow valley and sure enough, easily a hundred monsters lurked below them. Mystogan tried hard to concentrate on the task at hand and not Y/N's hand on his chest.

"Well this is a lot", he noted soberly.

"Do we have a plan?", Y/N stood on her toes to lean up to him and speak as quietly as possible.

This became dangerous fast, Mystogan thought, not to mention the monsters waiting ahead of them.

"It would be good if I could go arround the valley to place traps", he leaned down to whisper into Y/N's ear and a shiver ran down her spine.

They agreed that Y/N would wait on this side while Mystogan placed the traps. Of course only after Y/N insisted that she will be alright by herself and call for help should anything happen. She tried to keep her eyes on her partner as he disappeared into the shade of the trees. When she couldn't see him anymore she made sure to keep her eyes trained on the valley.

Mystogan had just made it to the other side and had already placed two traps on the way when something hit him in the arm. Pain seared through his upper body as he gripped the arrow and pulled it out of his flesh. A hiss escaped his lips and almost too late he noticed the bushes rustling right next to him.

A monster of wolfish appearance charged right at him and he was only barely able to duck out of the way. He held up his staves but instead of fighting he had to lean on one of them for support as a wave of dizziness hit him.

The damn arrow, he realized beforethe beast charged at him again, successfully draggind him down the valley.

In no time Mystogan was surrounded by monsters of all kind. Hi immediate thought was Y/N. He couldn't protect her like this. But he had to.

With all strength left in him he propped himself up on one knee before casting the Five Layered Magic Circle Sacred Song. At this time Y/N was already sprinting down the valley. She had only noticed something was wrong when all monsters moved towards one spot. That was when she saw Mystogan at their feet, blood dripping from his arm.

She had almost reached the middle when she saw a beam of violet light take out numerous mosnters. However, over half of them were still alive and charging at the injured mage. Mystogan did his best to fend them off, even if it seemed impossible a task. He became weaker by the minute and was soon on his knees, using one of his staves to keep himself up.

Suddenly monster after monster started to explore from within, blood splattering everywhere.

And there, in the midst of utter chaos, Y/N emerged. Her hands were held up in a commanding manner and the colour of blood stained her clothes as well as her hair and porcelain skin.

Mystogan fought to stay conscious as he could not take his eyes off her. Her once bright E/C eyes had taken a crimson colour and her gaze emitted an authoritive if not dangerous aura.

The monsters could not even touch her as they kept exploding one after another. When Y/N's eyes met Mystogan's they immediately returned to their usual colour. Within seconds she was on her knees in front of him.

"Mystogan! Are you alright? Oh what am I saying, of course not. Were you poisoned?", she asked after one look at his wound. When he nodded she placed his arm around her shoulder in an attempt to help him up. Even the last of monsters had been wiped out at this point but there was no telling what might await them next.

"Don't worry, I'll get you out of here", she told Mystogan but it sounded more like she was trying to convince herself.

It was soon clear that Y/N was simply lacking the strength to move Mystogan away in time. She fought to move forward but it proved difficult as the hill was getting steeper. Her legs started to shake and her hands had a death grip on Mystogan's body to keep him in place on her back. At least until she inevitably fell onto her knees, almost getting crushed by Mystogan now lying on top of her.

Damn it I've really lost my edge it seems. And why is Mystogan such a giant?, Y/N felt frustration take over her mind instead of despair and gladly let it. Just when she was about to push both of them off the the ground again, Mystogan whispered into her ear. "Go on without me Y/N. We'll never get away in time with me slowing you down."

"The poison must have gotten to your head. Don't think for a second that I would leave you here", Y/N raised her voice. The tone of her voice left little room for argument.

Summoning every last ounce of strength, Mystogan used wind magic to alleviate the weight on Y/N's back.

"I'm sorry, this is the most I can help you in this state", his breath was laboured, "Although I'm not sure for how long I can keep this up."

Y/N wanted to protest and tell him to not strain himself, but she also admitted that her strength alone did not suffice. Not wanting to waste any more of Mystogan's strength she immediately got up and started running at full speed.

Now that it felt as though there was no additional weight on her, the H/C mage sprinted up the hill and into the forest.

When they were far enough into the forest Y/N was relieved to sense no presence in the area. However, this was also as long as Mystogan could keep up the spell.

All strength left him and the spell dissolved. Y/N was able to keep him up but had to lean onto a tree.

"I'm sorry", he whispered into the nape of her neck.

3rd POV

Y/N kept chatting with Mio seeing as how it distracted her.

"It seems to be a bad virus, probably transmitted through direct contact. Did you hurt yourself before you got sick?", she looked between Mio and her parents.

"She did cut herself on a broken pipe in the backyard. We really should have removed that rusty thing," the mother snivelled. 

Y/N checked the wound on Mio's leg and confirmed that it is not inflamed, proving her theory that a virus was probably transmitted through the wound instead.

"It is a bit worrisome that her condition has already come this far. I'm afraid of a possible sepsis if we don't start with treatment soon. I also don't believe just medicine will cut it at this point", Y/N explained her findings. 

"But will she recover?", the father demanded to know as she stroked his daughters hair gently. 

"That is my opinion, yes. There is something I can do. It's advanced treatment that should help Mio recover within the week. But I'll understand if you want to stick with more conservative treatment methods." The couple exchanged glances before asking Y/N to elaborate.

The whole time Mystogan was amazed at his fellow mage. Not only did she conduct herself professionally, she also did it in the most friendly and caring manner. Mio seemed rather shy and scared in the beginning, as any child would. But with each of Y/N's words and smiles, the girl relaxed and trusted her. Y/N explained the option of a prepped blood transfusion. For this she would take a small amount of Mio's blood, filter the affected cells out and replicate the healthy cells that already contain the properties and attributes to clear out her whole system once injected back into Mio.  Y/N gave them some time to think about it while she and Mystogan waited outside the lounge. "You're really incredible," Mystogan proclaimed as a matter of fact.

"I suppose this is one of te few positive uses of blood sorcery", she admitted quietly. 

"Not only that, but the way you offered your help without a second thought. Even after that doctor was so rude to you, the only thing on your mind was saving the child", Mystogan crossed his arms as he leaned against the wall.

Before Y/N could respond, the door opened to reveal the restaurant owners. "Please treat out daughter. We will pay any amount if it means our Mio will get well again", the man implored.

"My name is Misa and this is my husband Yusei. I apologize for our lack of manners," the mother bowed respectfully. 

"It's okay, I know you have other things on your mind. I'm Y/N and this is Mystogan", at this the blue-haired man behin her gave a small nod, "I don't require any payment, but is there any room I could use to prepare the infusion?"

The couple was so grateful, they immediately started to clear out the office on the first floor. Y/N informed that she would get some medical equipment from her room at the inn and then come back to draw Mio's blood.  Mystogan waited at the restaurant and helped Y/N set up her equipment once she returned. 

"Thank you for going along with this," she uttered as she took syringes and vial out of her small suitcase.  Mystogan took the items to place them on the desk.

"It's for a good cause and we don't have any more plans for today anyways." A smile graced Y/N's lips. Even if her new partner didn't speak much, there was no doubt that he is an extremely patient and considerate man. After desinfecting all equipment Y/N went back to the lounge. 

"Alright, I'll have to draw some of your blood. Just the tiniest bit, you won't even notice", she reassured the girl.  "And then I won't be sick anymore?", Mio had a hopeful, if tired, look on her face.  "Of course! You'll be full of energy in no time," the mage smiles as she patted the girl's head.  "All the other doctors said they couldn't help. Are you a fairy?", the child asked with wide eyes.

At this, the blue-haired mage cracked up, "In a way, she is." This earned him a mock glare from Y/N. However, Y/N was glad to have Mystogan with her. He did a splendid job at distracting Mio while she drew some blood. It surprised her to see Mystogan being so good with children. Little Mio was not scared of him, despite the fact that a tall masked man could very well strike children as scary. 

Afterwards Y/N locked herself in the office and Mystogan respected her wish to prep the infusion by herself.  Using her magic in front of others has always been a touchy subject. She could never shake off the feeling that blood sorcery is just so obscene, not to mention that it borders on dark magic depending on how it is used. The young woman would hate to show this kind of side to Mystogan. 

By the time Y/N was finished and gave Mio the infusion it was evening.  "Mystogan, was it? Although your girlfriend said she won't accept our money, please let us offer you dinner," Misa approached Mystogan who was waiting in the hall.

"O-Oh, she's not my girlfriend", he stuttered nervously, "But I'll speak to Y/N. Actually it would be of great help to us since we had not even thought about dinner yet." The middle aged woman seemed surprised, "I'm sorry for jumping to conclusions, it just seemed like-"

"Misa-san?" We are done," Y/N's voice rang behind the door. The raven-haired woman gave Mystogan an apologetic smile before entering the lounge. The masked mage was not sure whether he wanted the woman to finish her sentence or not. Y/N gave detailed instructions to the restaurant owners on how to proceed with the treatment. She also let them know that she would stop by for a check-up in a few days. The two Fairy Tail mages gratefully accepted the free dinner before they left for the inn.

"Thanks again for today", Y/N expressed softly as they entered their room. 

"It was no trouble. I admire how skillfully and selflessly you treated this child," Mystogan's gaze met hers. They bid each other good night and Y/N disappeared into her adjoining room.

3rd POV

Even though the sun was out, the weather in the north was harsher than Y/N is used to. Therefore she was happy to see Mystogan arrive at the market place shortly after her. She immediately waved him over with a smile, although she also seemed slightly dejected. 

"Did everything go well?," Mystogan asked, relieved to see Y/N free from any injuries. 

"Yes and no. Everyone was very nice but I didn't get any information on the dark mages. I do know where the latest monster attack happen though," she let out a sigh. When Mystogan told her that he was more successful in this regard Y/N felt her spirit rise even if she was a bit envious. She really wanted to show Mystogan that she can be helpful on this mission. 

As if she was an open book to him, the blue-haired mage scanned the area before suggesting, "How about we find a restaurant and have lunch? The wind is a bit cold and inside we can exchange information. I'm curious to hear what you found out." Y/N beamed at him and pointed towards a restaurant on the other side of the market place.

They found a secluded table in the corner of the room. After ordering Mystogan took a look around to ensure there weren't any people around to overhear their conversation.  "So, what do we have partner?", Y/N placed her face in her hands, propped up on the table.

"It seems the monsters in the mountains might be controlled by the dark guild. The guild exists, but the man who told me about this said that no one knows where the guild is located. However, members of the guild come into town and threaten the citizens regularly. They also extort protection money from all store owners."

"Those bastards!", Y/N exclaimed before clasping her hands over her mouth. Mystogan's eyes widened the slightest bit but soon held pure amusement when he watched the girl stammer apologies with a bright red face. 

"I see you must have spent a lot of time with Natsu and Gray," he chuckled.

"But it really is terrible. No wonder the people here are afraid to speak about it," Y/N's gaze help worry and sympathy for the people of Vecca.

"I agree with you Y/N. And what did you find out?"

At this, Y/N rummaged through her bag and pulled out a map. "Well, it isn't much but this here," she pointed to a circled area on the map," is where a group of monsters attacked three days ago."

Mystogan thought for a moment, "This is good information, we could take a look around this area tomorrow. Perhaps we'll find some hints about the dark guild." Y/N agreed and just at the right time the food arrived. Watching Mystogan eat his meal in a laborious way promted a snort to leave Y/N's lips. Her hand immediately moved to cover her mouth, "I'm sorry, I can't believe I've only been showing you such an unsightly display. The way you eat just looks so absurd, I'm not sure if I should laugh or pity you for this predicament."

"It's okay, you have been nothing but a delight. Actually I have to thank you," Mystogan admitted softly. 

"Oh, for what?", Y/N blinked. 

"For your consideration. Not once have you probed me about the mask."

"No need to thank me. It doesn't impact this partnership, so even if I'm curious it's none of my business. I'm sure you would tell me if you could, so don't worry about it," Y/N's smile was soft and reassuring. 

Mystogan did not move, maybe he didn't even breathe. It was as if he couldn't believe his ears, but seeing the earnest look in Y/N's eyes he relaxed visibly. "Thank you," he uttered before averting his gaze to his meal.  Meanwhile, Y/N's eyes were trained at the counter. There seemed to be a commotion but Y/N could only judge by the expressions on the faces of the owner and what must be his wife. The woman had tears in her eyes and through a gap in the door the mage saw a doctor with a stern look on his face.

"Even the doctor can't say what is causing her illness."

"Then we'll bring in another doctor!", the man whisper-yelled.

"What if they just tell us the same thing? We can't afford any more doctors," the woman sobbed.

At this point Mystogan has also directed his attention to the couple. He almost missed it when Y/N stood up and approached them.

"I'm sorry", she caught their attention, "I didn't mean to eavesdrop but I overheard that someone is ill?", she inquired politely.

"Don't worry, our kitchen is clean and steril," the man reassured without looking Y/N in the eye.

"Oh no, I'm not asking about that. I just travelled here from Magnolia and I specialize in healing magic," Y/N explained carefully. The man gave her a skeptical look which Y/N understood considering the kind of experience they have made with the dark mages here. He was about to say something when his wife grabbed Y/N's hands over the counter, "Please help my little girl!" She also nudged her husband and gave him a desparate look.

"I can take a look at her. Is she here?", Y/N asked to which the lady tugged on her hands to guide her around the counter. However, a hand on Y/N's shoulder held her back. When she looked back, Mystogan's face came into view, eyes golding a hint of worry.

"Is it alright if I accompany my partner? I feel restless leaving her alone for too long in an unfamiliar place," he requested respectfully.  The couple watched him quizzically but eventually agreed. They guided the mages into a small lounge at the back of the restaurant. Y/N's eyes immediately went to a small girl lying on a couch. Her black her was sprawled out in thin strands and her skin was ashen. Her eyes were closed her breathing was heavy. The girl was also so skinny that Y/N wondered aloud how long she has been sick.

"Over two weeks now. Three doctors have been here but nobody can find the cause, let alone a cure," the man explained. 

"And you think this woman can do more for the girl?", the doctor from earlier came up behind them.

"I can't know that yet, but my magic allows me to see things not visible to the sheer eye", Y/N explained calmly.

"Oh please. You think anything can be solves with a little magic, when you don't even have the slightest knowledge about medicine. An overconfident breat is just what we need," the doctor bellowed. Y/N was just about to respond when Mystogan stepped in, effectively shielding her from the doctor's glare. 

"My very much qualified partner will need a quiet environment to treat the patient. If you cannot remain silent perhaps you could also wait outside," the blue-haired mage declared politely but his voice was as sharp as a knife. 

Y/N had to bite back a smile and decided to no longer pay any mind to the rude doctor. She crouched down next to the couch in order to be at eye level with the girl.

"Hello, my name is Y/N and this here is Mystogan. May I ask for your name?", the young woman introduced herself softly.  Heavy lidded eyes fluttered open to reveal dull, sunken eyes. The colour still appeared topaz brown. 

"I'm Mio. Are you also a doctor?", the girl whispered in a raspy voice.

"Nice to meet you Mio. Actually I'm a mage. Is it okay if I touch you?" Mio nodded. Y/N placed her hands over the girls chest and stomach. "Body scan", she whispered before speaking to Mio.

"How old are you Mio?"

"I'm almost eight."

Mystogan's POV

Sitting on my bed I watched the sun rise, wrapped in dawn's colourful display. After going to bed early yesterday I woke up early but well rested. The same couldn't be said about Y/N. Not a single sound has left her room since last night, indicating that she was probably still asleep.

So I took my time showering and getting ready. When it was past eight and there was still no sign from my new partner, I grew worried. And so I knocked on the adjoining door only to receive no response. My hand reached the door knob before distancing itself again. This went back and forth as my though spiralled. Hoping that Y/N would forgive my invading her privacy, I finally opened the door. What greeted me was the sight of sprawled out on her bed, the covers only half shielding my view from her delicate form. She seemed to be sleeping peacefully and so I closed the door and went down to get breakfast instead.

When I came back, the door to Y/N's room was open and granting me view of her pacing about the room. In her nightgown no less. Luckily she was also wearing some kind of overcoat.

"Good morning", I greeted but it came out sounding like a question.

A shriek left Y/N's lips as she turned around so abruptly she lost her balance and stumbled over her travel bag. Instinctively I reached out and she fell into my arms.

"Is everything okay?", I asked while steadying Y/N.

Her eyes shot up to me. "You're safe!"

I blinked, "Why wouldn't I be?"

"Because I woke up and your room was empty, I was afraid something happened to you", she exclaimed and a blush crept onto her cheeks as she realized the misconception. My face also started to heat up but for a completely different reason. I noticed my hands still on her shoulder and arm, so I moved them up to ruffle Y/N's hair before averting my gaze. "I just went down for breakfast since there was no telling when you would wake up, sleepyhead."

Y/N's face started to awfully resemble Erza's hair colour. "I have a deep sleep! Just wake me up when we need to get ready next time", she stuttered.

"Okay, I will. I brought you some breakfast from downstairs", I motioned to the paper bag on the table, "Why don't you get dressed and have a bite before we go out?"

Y/N hummed in response and disappeared into the bathroom. While I waited in my room I couldn't help but notice how awfully sweet it felt for Y/N to worry about me like that. I've been working alone for so long, there hasn't been anyone to worry about me really.

She didn't take long to get ready and eat her breakfast and so we soon left to scout the town. After seeing the reaction of the bakery worker yesterday, Y/N deemed it best to dress casual and less like a guild mage. She wore a cute winter dress with the thigh high boots and hat to complete the look.

In the little time I've known her I couldn't help but notice that she looks good in anything really. Beautiful even. Pushing such thoughts aside I suggested that we gather information separately and meet up again later. Since Y/N already put effort into blending in and looking approachable, she will probably have more luck without me. Admittedly my appearance doesn't exactly strike trust in the hearts of regular citizens.

"Will you be alright by yourself?", I furrowed my brows at Y/N.

"Don't worry. As promised, I won't stray too far, won't go anywhere shady and will stay in public places with lots of people around", she snickered as she used her fingers to recite all rules I previously established.

I watched Y/N disappear into the busy streets, before making my way to my first destination.

Before long I was made painfully aware that all attempts to get intel on the dark mages were just as unsuccessful as yesterdays's encounter at the bakery. I've been to a blacksmith, three pubs and even a magical device store but none of the citizens would reveal any information. The people would always evade the question about any dark mages, only advising me to beware of the mountains behind the borders. At least I found out that there is an adventurers guid hall a few streets ahead. Independent mages and mercenaries get their jobs and intelligence from there.

Inside the building I first went to the mission board and noticed that although there seem to be monsters lurking in the mountains, none of the quests ask for them to be slayed or driven away. At the bar counter I was able to strike a conversation with a few adventurers and mages. However, when I brought up the topic of the monsters and dark mages everyone once again shut down and gave only vague answers, if any.

Letting out a sigh I left the building but was abruptly grabbed by my collar and pulled into the next alley. It was dark and narrow, so I couldn't see the man's face very well but he seemed to be an elderly man, perhaps a past adventurer even, judging by the appearance. Multiple scars littered his skin and the man still wore a leather belt with a small sword attached.

"Asking around town won't get you anywhere. Are you a mage?", the man ushered, keeping his voice down. He let go of me and stared at me intensely.

"Yes, I'm from Fairy Tail. Can you tell me anything about the situation here then?", I asked hurriedly, afraid he might change his mind.

"I can. But first, do you think you're up to it? It's going to be dangerous and if you're just gonna get yourself killed you better go back while you still can", the man grumbled.

"Do not worry. My partner and I are here to take down all monsters and and the dark guild. Last week I took out a dark guild in the west but it turned out to be part of a guild network. I believe another guild division to be quatered here", explained calmly and the man seemed to relax slightly.

"I'm sure you already know about the monsters roaming the mountain side. But those aren't regular monsters, it's almost as if they are commanded by mages..", and so the man explained the situation to me in detail. I didn't even get his name or the chance to express my gratitude. As soon as he finished speaking he left as abruptly as he appeared.

Checking the clock I noticed that it is about time to meet up with Y/N again and got on my way.

Alrighty, Chapter 3 is finally finished and I already got started on Chapter 4! :)  _______________

Mystogan's POV

The next day I awaited Y/N in front of her apartment at 09:00 sharp. When she opened the door and greeted me with a small smile on her face, I immediately noticed a change in her appearance. Yesterday's cute and homely dress was replaced by short pants and a turtleneck top that hugged her form just right. Y/N was wearing combat boots over her overknee tights and the cloak draped over her shoulders hid the various items attached to her belt. For a moment I could swear I saw a dagger reflecting the light.

Once again unsure of what to say, my eyes glanced down her form to her travel bag standing beside her. "Let me take that", I muttered as I picked up the bag. Putting it over my shoulder I turned around and started walking up the street. I could faintly hear the H/C haired woman chuckle before she caught up to me.

"So partner, where are we going?", she inquired glancing up at me.

"To the train station. I was able to find some clues before returning to the guild yesterday. Several dark mages were seen in a city north-west, which could mean that one of their divisions may be located nearby." As Y/N nodded at me in understanding, I offered to discuss possible strategies on the train ride.

After we boarded the train we sat in silence for a while as Y/N gazed at the moving scenery. My gaze, however, was on her. After Master explained her circumstances to me I still had a few questions, but he deemed it best if I were to ask her directly. I soon came to the conclusion that there was simply no good time to start this conversation and let out a small sigh. It was beyond me how she would have heard it through my mask but it seems she did. The girl sat up straight and looked me in the eye before saying, "You know, we were paired up so suddenly, I understand if you have any questions about me."

Taken by surprise I let out a chuckle, "Can you read minds?", my voice was laced with humour and Y/N stared at me with wide eyes and her mouth agape. Wow. I'm the slightest bit cheerful and people are shocked out of their mind. Perhaps I should re-visit my social skills after all.

"Not really. Although I can establish a link to someone through a ritual. It'll allow me to sense the other person's physical status and get a rough read on their emotions", Y/N explained calmly but her eyes looked uneasy. I could imagine that she is afraid of my reaction to her speaking of blood sorcery. Therefore I lieaned back in my seat and responded respectfully.

"That's an interesting magic. I have also heard of your superb healing abilities." When she broke into a smile I knew it was a good idea to start the topic by speaking of something she is comfortable with. Y/N chatted on about the ways she uses her power to heal. She would pause and apologize for her rambling to which I would assure that I don't mind in the slightest. I also answered any questions Y/N had about the spells I use and what kind of missions I usually do.

"If it's alright for me to ask.. what do you do for self-defense?", at this question the girl across from me stilled and I hastily added, "it's just that Master Makarov assured me you will be able to wipe out any monsters, but I just want to know what to expect if we face any other type of danger. I did promise to bring you back safe and sounds after all." I gave her a smile, hoping to would have any effect at all even with my mask covering my face.

She seemed to be deep in thought for a moment before her briefly strained features softened. "Please don't worry. Although I don't use sorcery on humans I have spent many years training combat and I've also taken up a few tricks." Since Y/N does seem like a reasonable person I felt relieved to hear that. Although I will keep an eye on her in any case. God knows what the guild would do to me if anything happened to her.

3rd POV

It was afternoon by the time the two Fairy Tail mages arrived at Vecca. They immediately started to look for an inn, but didn't leave out any opportunity to gather information.

Currently they were making a stop at a bakery. Mystogan didn't miss the way Y/N's stomach growled as they walked by and so he casually noted that the bakery would be a good source of information.

"Two melon pans, please," she beamed at the cashier. The man visibly blushed and returned her smile. "And sir, we're new here so I was wondering if you know an inn that would have us?", Mystogan added as he passed him the money. The man behind the counter gave them the name and directions to the inn.

"Thank you!", Y/N smiled softly before lowering her voice, "Say, is it true that this region is occupied by monsters and dark mages?", Y/N's voice was laced in fear. The man's expression morphed into one of fear. "I don't know anything about dark mages," he mumbled, "but the mountains are dangerous and monsters do tend to appear there. I advise you to not stray too far past the town borders." With a small nod he turned away and approached another customer.

Y/N and Mystogan wandered the streets, side by side.

"The bakery worker was totally hiding something", Y/N voiced as she happily munched on her melon pan. She had offered her second pan to Mystogan, which he politely declined. Y/N had a feeling that he just wants to avoid taking his mask off and so she wrapped the bread and insisted he keep it for later.

Mystogan couldn't help but feel delight at how considerate the girl was, especially towards him. She never questioned him. She never asked about his mask or secretive nature. The way she accepted him and even called him 'partner' sparked mixed feelings inside Mystogan. Although he couldn't name it, he did find himself smiling involuntarily.

"Let's not worry too much. We can rest for today and tomorrow we'll start to gather information," he assured Y/N before holding the door to the inn open for her. They were in luck and got two separate rooms connected by an intermediate door. This way they each had their privacy but could also meet up at all times. While Y/N thought this arrangement was convenient because they could discuss further plans in private, Mystogan was relieved to know that he can protect the girl at all times if needed.

"Good night, Mystogan", Y/N smiled as she caught his eye.

"Good night, Y/N," Mystogan spoke softly before leaving her bag in front of her and closing the door behind him.

The north was known for it's harsh weather but as Mystogan took off his mask and unwrapped the pan Y/N gave him, he felt strangely warm.