squisherific

[squisherific]

Ten years.

The first ever Gruvia Week was held in 2013. It is now 2023. Meaning, this is the 11th edition/Gruvia Week… but 10 years have passed since the creation of this blog and beloved event that’s been held on the exact same dates since the beginning (April 1st - April 7th). That’s right, the event date has never changed, never held early, nor late. To keep it this consistent and for so long is truly an accomplishment.

Thank you to all the wonderful fans that have kept this event alive for so long. It has been my pleasure to host this celebration for the last 10 years, and it’s because of you that I do so. All the dedicated Gruvia lovers deserve this. The fandom has changed a lot as time went on. People come and go. However, most notably, we have grown in more ways than one. Likewise, Gray and Juvia have gone through a tremendous amount of development in the last decade. They have confirmed mutual romantic love and a son that we have yet to meet in earthland, but still very much canon in the manga and drawn by the author (Hiro Mashima) of his own accord on multiple occasions. Despite this, we are still waiting for the day they “officially” get together. The setup and foreshadowing is there… He wants it, so Gray, confess to Juvia soon!

In the meantime, we celebrate the ship once again. Here are the official Gruvia Week 2023 prompts displayed in the image above. Just like in previous years these prompts are not complicated, but they are broad and meant to make you think. Be creative. Interpret them however you see fit. If you don’t know what a word means, look it up. Specific and basic prompts would result in different versions/entries of the same thing. That’s why Gruvia Week is so successful every year; imagination. Prompts for this event are always different every year. No repeats! See: Previous Gruvia Week editions

Those who are new to the week, unfamiliar, or would like to simply rehash, please click here to learn how to participate. Also be sure to follow the rules and guidelines. Feel free to ask questions, however please check this blog’s previous posts before submitting them. It’s possible your question could have already been answered.

Reminder: All pieces must be new. Old works will not be reblogged/included in the week. Be sure to specify the day/prompt used in your post. If you don’t have a tumblr, you can still participate. Post your work on any social media platform for that target audience. Participate anywhere; the more the merrier! However, if you’d like your work to be posted/featured here as well, be sure to submit it to this blog. Or submit the link to it (if posted on another platform such as twitter, instagram, wattpad, ao3, etc).

Reminders:

Tag your work with #gruvia week (with the space) within the first five tags.

Avoid using links in your post, as there is a chance it will not show up in the tags. Try using only five tags and no links if your post does not appear. If you must use a link, make sure it shows in the tags.

If your work contains an image or gif, make sure it’s within tumblr’s photo dimensions and size limits. Sometimes big images cause posts to not appear in tags.

It is YOUR responsibility to make sure your post shows up in the mobile and/or pc tags, so be sure to check if it does.

Gruvia Week will be held from April 1st - April 7th as always. Get ready and get creative!

Graphic/art by the wonderful and talented @goodnightlover. Thank you! ♡

[squisherific]

Thank you so much for the kind words!! They really mean a lot! 🥺💕💕And thank you for trusting me to make characters that are near and dear to your heart!! ❤️

A couple years ago I came across an amazing plush artist on deviantart that does commissions.

I've commissioned 4 plushes so far and have just been so incredibly happy each time. (One of them some of my followers might recognize as my Rejuv OC, who she did such an amazing job bringing to life in plush form)

I know I don't normally promo stuff, but I know how it feels to wish for a plush of a favorite character or OC, and the quality of these could almost be official. (Of course as to be expected there's a bit of a price and wait, but it was so worth it every time)

[squisherific]

HIRO MASHIMA’S GRUVIA DAY 2022 LIVE STREAM [SEPTEMBER 10TH]

A few days on twitter space, Mashima-sensei said he would be doing a live drawing stream for Gruvia Day this year, which is of course, September 10th (9/10) as always. Today, he officially announced it at the end of his youtube live stream (with the image above that reads “September 10th Gruvia Day Livestream”) AND on his twitter. Mashima-sensei is inviting all fans to send him your Gruvia art via DM on twitter, because he will show many of them on the livestream! Of course, do not send anything too explicit/NSFW. IMO, send your art before 9/10, at least by 9/8-9/9 so he has it before the stream (note the time difference between you and Japan as well). Old or new, send your best art! 🥰❄️ This goes without saying… only send YOUR art. Do not steal someone else’s hard work. Remember that it’s also Gruvia Family Day, so along with your Gruvia art, feel free to send Gray and Juvia with their son (Greige) art too if you’d like. Always nice for Mashima to see how much fans adore Gray and Juvia’s baby boy. 💙 From Mashima-sensei via twitter: 9月10日【グレジュビの日配信】やります！ それに合わせて皆さんからイラストを募集します。 頂いたイラストは当日配信で発表します。 （全部は発表できない場合もあります） イラストは僕のDMまでおねがいします！ “On September 10th I’m doing a Gruvia Day live stream! I’m asking for your illustrations for the live stream. The illustrations I receive will be presented on the day of the live stream. (I may not be able to present all of them) Please send me your illustrations via DM!” Let’s give it our all, and show Mashima-sensei how loved Gruvia really is! 🎉

[squisherific]

Gray, Juvia, and Greige ♡ ↳Hiro Mashima’s youtube live; June 25th 2022 & July 9th 2022 ☆

[squisherific]

Click image for better quality! 9 YEARS AND 10 GRUVIA WEEKS LATER, HERE WE ARE! WOW! Save the dates and spread the word, the official Gruvia Week 2022 prompts are OUT! It’s not exactly a “10 year anniversary” (that will be next year), however, it IS the TENTH Gruvia Week ever celebrated. Thus, the 10th edition. So, it really is some sort of anniversary after all. ♡

Those who are new to the week, unfamiliar, or would like to simply rehash, please click here to learn how to participate. Also be sure to follow the rules and guidelines. Feel free to ask questions, however please check this blog’s previous posts before submitting them. It’s possible your question could have already been answered.

Reminder: All pieces must be new. Old works will not be reblogged/included in the week. Be sure to specify the day/prompt used in your post. If you don’t have a tumblr, you can still participate. Just submit your work to this blog or submit the link to it (if posted on another platform such as twitter or instagram) and this blog will post it for you. At first glance you may think some of these prompts are “complicated”. They aren’t. These prompts are broad, and meant to make you think; be creative. If you don’t know what a word means, the internet is your friend. Google it. Specific and basic prompts would result in different versions/entries of the same thing. That’s why Gruvia Week is so successful every year; imagination.

Prompts for this event are always different every year. No repeats! Previous Gruvia Week editions

Reminders:

Tag your work with #gruvia week (with the space) within the first five tags.

Avoid using links in your post, as there is a chance it will not show up in the tags. Try using only five tags and no links if your post does not appear.

If your work contains an image or gif, make sure it’s within tumblr’s photo dimensions and size limits. Sometimes big images cause posts to not appear in tags.

It is YOUR responsibility to make sure your post shows up in the mobile and/or pc tags, so be sure to check if it does.

Gruvia Week will be held from April 1st - April 7th as always. Get ready and get creative!

Art by the wonderful and talented @chsabina. Thank you! ♡

#yay gruvia week!!

[squisherific]

Happy Gruvia Day / Gruvia Family Day 2021 💓❄️

[squisherific]

Gray’s love for Juvia developed gradually throughout the entire Fairy Tail series

Most of the time, those who dislike Gruvia are quick to say Gray was “constantly rejecting” and “constantly annoyed” by Juvia, and now “all of a sudden” he loves her, so it’s OOC. But that’s not true. Gray was not constantly annoyed by Juvia, nor did he constantly reject her. More over, he cannot be “forced” to love her. He isn’t so weak willed, and will say no to things he doesn’t like. He chooses to be with Juvia himself. Juvia is Gray’s main partner; someone who stands proudly by his side, and he wants her there. She is the only girl that he has romantic development with. Gray and Juvia spend time together of their own accord. Furthermore, these people are focusing way too much on the comedic moments, that are meant to be laughed at, and ignoring the ones that really matter. They also fail to remember that Gray falls under the tsundere character troupe. He is shy when it comes to romance, like most Japanese people are. Humor is subjective, but what falls under the umbrella of humor is not. You don’t have to think it’s funny, as long as you know it’s a joke. No, Gruvia is not toxic. Mashima likes humor, and that absolutely includes Juvia’s silly antics and Gray’s reactions to them. These things are exaggerated on purpose for dramatic effect. Japanese love this type of humor use in their mangas. This is also a fantasy manga, meaning it does not have to meet real life standards. Most of the characters have quirks that would not be acceptable in real life.

Gruvia is one of, if not the most romantically developed couple in Fairy Tail. All on panel. Gray being more open about his love for Juvia in the sequel, 100 Years Quest, makes complete sense. If the manga itself for some odd reason hasn’t shown you why, this post surely will. After all, I am using the manga to prove my point.

Before I begin showcasing Gray’s development, I’d like to recommend everyone read this post: Juvia isn’t a stalker. The message of Gruvia is not “stalk someone so much until they love you back”. Rather, it’s more along the lines of “love can turn someone’s life around”. Mashima has only ever portrayed Juvia’s love for Gray as a positive thing for both characters.

As you read through, notice how the scenes I chose (and it was hard, Gruvia has way too many panels) are mainly, if not all, from Gray’s side. The scenes displayed here are almost entirely serious ones, not comedic. Nor are they just panels of the two standing next to each other (in which there are also a lot of in the series, might I add, but I am focusing on moments that are actually meaningful). And looking at the amount of panels, it’s further proof that Gruvia isn’t all humor.

Now, let’s take a look at how Gray’s love for Juvia progressed throughout the series, step by step in the most simple way possible. I say simple, but the truth of the matter is this post is pretty long… ^^’

How Gray Fullbuster fell in love with Juvia Lockser.

I. Enemies

Phantom Lord.

Self explanatory—Gray and Juvia were enemies when they first met. Juvia was shunned her entire life, and was once a character who had forsaken love until she met Gray, who took away her rain and showed her the sunny sky. This is where their love story began.

II. Allies

Tower of Heaven.

When Juvia appears before Gray for the first time since their fight, he already knew who she was, her name, and that Phantom Lord had been disbanded. He personally doesn’t mind Juvia joining Fairy Tail, though he wonders what the master will say. The two now become allies, protecting/defending each other from Simon and when the blackout happens. They work together throughout the entire arc. Erza asks about the “element 4″ girl at the end, and Gray responds, “Oh, Juvia. She went home.” as well as mentioning she wants to join Fairy Tail.

III. Guild mates

Fighting Festival, Edolas.

Gray is happy about Juvia joining Fairy Tail, and the two are now officially guild mates. Makarov even thought it was good for them to go on a mission alone together. Plenty of small interactions between them occur throughout these arcs, but the notable ones are of the two making an ice water castle together, and Gray teaching Juvia how to eat caramade franks. Alzack and Bisca, a canon couple, note that Gray and Juvia are being lovey dovey. At that time, Alzack and Bisca actually wished they could be more forward, like the two they were watching. 

IV. Friends

Tenrou Island, Grand Magic Games/Dragon Invasion, Tartaros.

Gray and Juvia undeniably became close throughout these arcs. Gray thought about Juvia multiple times during the S-class exam, especially after she didn’t make it back to camp. He wanted to have a battle with her, therefore he was disappointed she lost to Erza. He was worried about her after sending her off to chase Zeref, and protected her during Acnologia’s attack. And of course, Meredy’s sensory link would not have worked if they weren’t close; she even comments to Ultear that Juvia is close to Gray. Like clockwork, Gray swoops in and saves Juvia from Ultear’s deadly attack. This is likely the moment that showcased Gray could eventually fall for Juvia. The two are no doubt, good friends. The Grand Magic Games was a long arc that showcased Gray and Juvia’s strong bond and teamwork that is unmatched. Gray would have accepted Juvia’s lunch date request if not for Lyon and his ridiculous bet that Gray didn’t even agree to. During the fight with Lyon and Chelia, Gray comforts Juvia by placing his hand on her shoulder, and she returns his touch. They do a unison raid, winning the battle, and both smiling at each other as they hold hands after. And of course, when the dragons attack, Gray sacrifices his life for Juvia without hesitation. Bonus: 413 Days special shows Gray, blushing and accepting the scarf Juvia made for him, commenting that it’s warm with a smile, one of the biggest signs his romantic feelings for her are growing. When Juvia offers Gray her “Gray-bread”, the only reason he didn’t want to eat it was because it had his face on it, hence why Juvia also made “Juvi-bread” too. Watching the interaction, Cana comments that she thought Gray shot Juvia down before, a reminder of his so called “rejection” right after the GMG. She notes that Gray’s actions (eating the bread Juvia made and being affectionate with her) contradict that “rejection”. Mirajane also affirms this, stating it’s back to status quo, confirming the “rejection” was indeed a red herring as nothing negative has changed between Gray and Juvia. Basically, Mashima was telling us to forget that “rejection” even happened. Further evidence that “rejection” meant nothing includes what happened following the bread scene; everything in the Tartaros arc and beyond. Gray holding Juvia’s hand stating “I’m here with you” is very intimate. Juvia having a significant panel/presence in Gray’s mind before attempting iced shell. Gray’s father, Silver, asked if Juvia was Gray’s woman and then said to take care of him. At the end of the arc, Juvia confessed to Gray it was her that killed the necromancer controlling his father, and said she had no right to love him anymore. She was about to walk away from Gray forever, a selfless act that no crazy “stalker” would ever do. But he didn’t let her. He grabbed her, and sobbed in her chest, thanking her for what she did. The two share an intimate hug as the snow falls. While I placed the Tartaros arc under the “friends” section, you could argue it became obvious Gray started to love Juvia romantically by the middle, or end of it. At the very least, it was clear if they were to end up with someone, it would be each other, no one else.

V. Lovers (romantic/love interest)

Avatar, Alvarez Empire (war), Fairy Tail Final Chapter. Fairy Tail 100 Years Quest (official canon sequel). By this time, it is absolutely clear that Gray and Juvia are meant to be each other’s love interests in the series. A character such as Gray would not just live with a girl (who is in love with him) if she was only his friend. Gray and Juvia shared a house together for 6 months, which again, is deep for this type of series. As we know, Gray leaves her without a word to infiltrate Avatar. I have my own issues with the Avatar arc, but that’s a different story. When the two reunite, we can see that Gray is truly sorry for leaving, as he has trouble looking at her directly when he apologizes. The two fight together, side by side once again. Juvia also picked up Gray’s stripping habit. Before the war, Gray was flirting with Juvia on a balcony, offering her the rest of his candy bar. In this scene, Gray himself trashes all anti-claims about him being annoyed she’s always with him. “I’m grateful to have you. You’re always by my side”. Yes, Gray wants Juvia there with him. Always. He is not repulsed by her, he does not hate her, she does not annoy him. A strong romantic vibe was felt during this moment, as Gray promises her an “answer” (which is presumed to be about his feelings for her) after the battle is over. He would not be saying this if his answer was “no” or if he didn’t have feelings for her. He would not make Juvia wait around for another “rejection”, that makes no sense whatsoever. Anyway, most people agree at this point Gray loves Juvia romantically. During their fight with Invel is when it’s 100% confirmed that Gray loves Juvia, through words AND actions. See the breakdown of the Japanese raw here, including confirmation from a Japanese native. But in sum when Gray said 「仲間を…いや…お前をキズつけたくない…」 “I don’t want to hurt a friend… no… I don’t want to hurt YOU”, “Nakama wo… Iya… Omae wo kizutsuketakunai”, he starts to say “comrade”, but then corrects himself (he actually says “no”), indicating Juvia is more than a comrade. The direct word order would be “A friend… no… it’s YOU I don’t want to hurt”. So now we have the word part down, let’s talk briefly about Gray’s actions. He and Juvia did the same thing (committed suicide) for the SAME reason. They did not want to hurt the person they LOVE. The manga speaks for itself; Gray’s screams of agony and tears upon thinking Juvia died, holding her close, begging her to wake up, beating Invel’s ass in rage mode, blaming Natsu (the book of demons) for taking Juvia away, and his passing out from relief of seeing her alive… that’s love. Period.

As for Gray’s “answer” this was it. I truly believe it was chapter 499. But I also believe because of what happened in this chapter, it caused Gray to hold back telling Juvia how he felt, since we learn later he feels guilty about the scar and that he’s not strong enough to protect Juvia yet. Onto the final chapter of Fairy Tail… I felt it could have been handled better, but I won’t get into detail. The point is, in Mashima’s mind, Gruvia was canon. The west and Japan have very different ideas of what “canon” is. See post: What the word “canon” actually means (Japan vs The West). Japanese fans consider “canon” couples to have clearly defined mutual feelings or are extremely obvious. Meanwhile, the west needs “canon” to be far more explicit, such as dating, marriage, and/or kids. But this is a Japanese manga, written by a Japanese man, and mainly geared towards a Japanese audience. Therefore, as readers, we must consider the Japanese point of view as the intention. Anyway, Gray and Juvia talk about their respective scars, in which Gray feels guilty for her receiving one. Gray said “Your body is mine”, but what he meant was “you’re mine”, all of Juvia belongs to Gray. You do not say this to a friend. Gray is shy, and his mumbling afterwards is irrelevant. Watch this video by a Japanese native to fully understand what Gray meant in the final chapter and why this means he loves Juvia romantically. Juvia herself knew what Gray meant also, hence her excited reaction. Thus, this was meant to be Gruvia’s canon moment, before the sequel arrived that is…

100 Years Quest

While it was confirmed in the original that Gray loves Juvia romantically, it became even more clear in the continuation. Those who say Gray did a complete 180 in the sequel and is now too “lovey” about Juvia must not have paid attention beforehand. Because Gray loving Juvia isn’t out of left field, it makes total sense given the development up til this point. Gray is more open about his feelings now. It’s wonderful character development.

This is the official sequel to Fairy Tail, taking place directly after the original left off. Hiro Mashima writes the story/draws the storyboard, meaning he creates the plot, rough drafts, and character’s lines. Since he’s very busy, he doesn’t have time to ink it too, so Atsuo Ueda does the art, which is very similar to Mashima’s as well. Mashima also promotes/endorses it on twitter and other places. There are flashbacks in the sequel that use panels/art directly from the original Fairy Tail. That is only allowed because he is the author of this (sequel) story. Anyway, everyone agrees that this sequel is canon. Continuing on…

I have never seen Gray blush so much over Juvia as I have than in this sequel. Even in general, Gray has never been so flustered before. He has really come a long way, and gained so much character development. To put it simply, his goal in the sequel is to be with Juvia, for good. When the topic of romance is brought up, Gray blushes with a dorky, but so-in-love smile thinking of Juvia calling his name. This scene confirms once again that Gray loves Juvia, since his comment was “ren’ai ne…/love, huh…” 恋愛 (ren’ai) = specifically romantic love. Following this, we see Gray interact with Juvina, Juvia’s doppelgänger from Fairy Nail. The point of this chapter was to take a look inside Gray’s heart, and for him to gain insight on how Juvia might actually feel waiting around for him. Juvina pointed out some key factors: Gray’s unhappy face thinking about her being a topless dancer because he doesn’t want other men seeing the woman he loves naked, the fact that he did not deny he loves Juvia, that Juvia won’t wait forever, that she feels bad for Juvia, etc. Juvina also told Gray about Glen, and how he acts reminds us of how Gray acts. Although we find out later Juvina and Glen are actually together, it seems like Juvina was simply trying to give Gray some perspective lol. And all those people who still claim Gray hates Juvia, he said “I don’t hate you!” (about Juvia) right in this very chapter. He then proceeds to say Juvia means the world to him, but he doesn’t think he’s good enough for her right now. We see him thinking of the scar she got from their fight with Invel, feeling guilty about it. While Juvina taunts that Juvia won’t wait for him forever, Gray says he knows that and so that’s why he wants more confidence in himself. Juvia’s smiling image comes to his mind again as he vows to become a man who can protect her, and declares he will make her his. What Gray said, “And then I swear I’ll make her mine/And go get Juvia no matter what” is a set phrase in Japanese with a romantic nuance. See the breakdown of the raw here, along with examples from other manga that use this phrase in romantic context. When Juvia appeared randomly on the train, Gray knew something wasn’t right. he even asked her why she was acting so different. Because Gray knows Juvia. Of course, they are always together throughout the white mage/Aldoron arc. The two fought Metro, and completed another unison raid. Gray saying Juvia is his power to live is also romantic because of the way he said it in Japanese. You do not say this to a friend, but we know at this point Gray is in love with her anyway. And because we know that, we know his line is romantic. Juvia knows as well, hence why she was so happy about it, wanted him to say it again, and teased him afterwards. The meaning in Japanese of “she’s my power/strength to live” is “because there is you, I am living”. After they win, Gray pulls Juvia in for a hug, saying he’s glad she’s safe while holding that typical Gray pout and tsundere blush. After the battle with Aldoron is over, Gray affectionally returned Juvia’s embrace in front of his guild mates, much to their surprise.

Edo Gruvia has a son, Greige. His name is actually very meaningful, as it’s a color (combines the colors grey and beige) like Gray and Silver, and a combination of Gray and Juvia’s actual names. For a more in depth explanation behind the meaning, see this post. Gray took a liking to Greige, calling him too cute and wanting to take him back to Earthland. And of course, imagining a blissful life with Juvia and his son during his final battle with Hakune. This said enemy brought out Juvia as the woman sleeping in the depths of Gray’s heart. He also thought about Juvia before battling neko-Wendy, who teased him about being concerned over her. 

Gray’s fantasy speaks for itself. It’s a happy life with his loved ones, and he said this is the world of happiness he imagined. That includes being with Juvia and having their son, Greige. Gray states he wants to stay there forever, but he knows he can’t because it’s just a dream. Gray breaks out of that false reality, stating he doesn’t need to be happy. He wants to make JUVIA happy. Gray is saying he doesn’t want fake happiness in a dream. He wants to make Juvia happy instead, for real/in reality. When you love someone, you want to make them happy. Also, context. It matters. The whole point of this line was to show Gray being selfless; he is putting the woman he loves FIRST. Placing Juvia’s feelings above his own. Luckily…  they have the same dream, lol. Juvia definitely wants to be married, and have Greige. At this point, no one can deny Gray loves Juvia without looking like… a fool. Gray wouldn’t imagine a happy life with Juvia, and having a son with her if he didn’t love her.

And in this dream, Juvia is completely in character. Even her “love rival” mode. Gray loves Juvia the way she is. She appears in Gray’s head multiple times throughout the story. And through his eyes, she is a gorgeous, loving woman with a bright smile. NOT some crazy stalker or annoyance. The volume 9 omake shows a scene right before Gray and Team Natsu got transported to Edolas. We see Gray apologizing for putting Juvia in danger, and her teasing him about his “power to live” comment. Gray promises he will definitely come back from the quest. He looks very determined, blushing, and was about to confess something about what would happen when he returned… but then he vanished. lol. Of course, Mashima/Ueda can’t be that nice, haha.

I know it was very long, but I hope this meta did it’s job of showcasing Gray’s character development in regards to Juvia, the progression of his feelings for her, and why it makes sense he is now in love with her. I look forward to his confession (of some sort, as it’s set up that way), and the hopefully eventual arrival of Earthland Greige!

#all of the truth #gruvia

[squisherific]

About Gray’s final words in chapter 84

I think the last time I wrote a meta about Gruvia was like… years ago for chapter 499/500, in the original story. ^^”  Today though, after reading certain comments about chapter 84 from FT100YQ, I felt like some people need to read this- I personally do not think that what Gray said needs an explanation. Gray has been and keeps being very blunt and crystal clear about his intentions with Juvia: juvia means the world to me, I wanna become a man who can protect her, and then I swear I will make her mine, she’s my power to live… okay, that’s a lot. it’s just a matter of reading comprehension and context at this point.  “I don’t want to be happy.”

I guess this is the “problematic” part. Context will help us: Gray had just had a taste of what happiness is to him: loved ones from his past (Silver, Ur, Ultear), loved ones from his present (Juvia) and even loved ones from his future (Greige) all gathering together as a family to celebrate a special occasion, his birthday. He had a taste of his perfect dream life and it’s important to notice that, not even once, he fell for this “trap”: he keeps saying to himself “it’s a dream… it’s a dream…” and finally “IT’S WRONG”.

Why is it wrong? Because he knows he’s living a FAKE reality, simply as that. Silver, Ur and Ultear won’t come back to him. He knows this is his personal utopia: the past is the past, what is lost is lost. It’s his selfish desire and he knows that accepting this fantasy means not only losing the present and future (real Juvia, Greige and the family he wants to start) but also dwelling on the past- and, after over 500 chapters from the original story and sequel, we all know he wants to look forward to the future and just be over it already. It’s a fact. Why should he stay in this fake dream, then? Why should THIS be his happiness? There you have it. He doesn’t want to be happy- he doesn’t want to be happy like this. Context. Many are interpreting it as he doesn’t want happiness in general because he’s either feeling guilty or because that bitch Juvia trapped him in a love story he clearly doesn’t want (lol)… but nope, his sentence just needs context.  Gray wants to be happy with Juvia and Greige.  The hallucination starts with Juvia as his wife waking him up lovingly and his son greeting him with a very sweet “daddy!”. This is what he wants, what makes him happy: having the family he’s always dreamt of, that family which was stolen from him as a kid by Deliora. This is his happiness- present and future. His very happiness is his power to live, his strenght… it’s that one woman he’s fighting for, he’s living for. It’s Juvia. And you know what comes next?

“I want to make Juvia happy.”

Her happiness is his. His happiness is hers. They love each other so deeply and it’s so crystal clear… as I said, it didn’t even need an explanation. If you love someone you want them to be happy- and in Gray’s case, considering the context of the chapter AND his ongoing development, this is his new hapiness. He’s not denying his own happiness as many said for the sake of Juvia: yes, she’s his priority right now, but he’s not really putting her happiness over his. They want the same thing and they will be happy together with wonderful kid(s) hopefully in a near future. 

I love Gray because his development is one of a kind in Fairy Tail. He’s a special person and deserves the world. Also, let me just say one final thing: with this chapter he definitely gets the crown for the most romantic boy in FT. A lover boy through and through like Juvina would say. haha! Enjoy this chapter guys, we’re in for something big.

#yessssss #this #gruvia

[squisherific]

Greige from the new chapter appreciation set ♡ What Gray wants ❅

#this chapter was heavenly #greige #gruvia

[squisherific]

Juvia isn’t a stalker

This is an old, very frustrating argument for Gruvia fans that shouldn’t even exist anymore. This post also shouldn’t exist because I am refuting something Juvia didn’t actually do, but this is what it’s come down to, sadly. The bottom line is that Juvia can not redeem herself for an issue that Mashima-sensei, the author, doesn’t believe exists (aka the non-existent stalking).

*Note: This post has been updated through March 2021.  Now includes the 100 Years Quest.

I. The amount of times Juvia watched Gray and why

Juvia did not stalk Gray EVER, but she did hang in the background. He and the guild had been the enemy. If she had walked right up to Gray and his friends, there would have been a backlash. It’s natural that she was afraid because of the damage she helped inflict. Despite this, she formed an affinity to Gray and Fairy Tail which she carefully approached to the best of her ability.

As it also shows in her memories, Juvia had a well-established history of being shunned because of her rain which further led to her tentative approach. Additionally, given the rejection and shunning of the past, Juvia lacked the developmental opportunity to refine social engagement. There was no malicious intent in her actions. She was afraid of being rejected again, so she kept her distance. 

And in fact, Juvia and Gajeel’s presence in Fairy Tail DID cause a backlash. Laxus and the Raijinshuu did get angry when they found out two former Phantom Lord members who had attacked the guild were allowed to join.

Yet, both Juvia and Gajeel made up for their former transgressions already against the specific members they had targeted by protecting them. Juvia protected Gray from Simon, and Gajeel protected Levy from Laxus. That was supposed to be their redemption…IT WAS THEIR REDEMPTION. As stated in the first paragraph, in bold this time: Juvia can not redeem herself for an issue that Mashima-sensei, the author, doesn’t believe exists (aka the non-existent stalking). 

Ultimately, Juvia did approach Gray when he was by himself to ask what he thought about her joining Fairy Tail.  This was their first direct meeting after they met in Chapter 56. Indirect encounters include chapter 67 where she observed from afar and delivered a bento and chapter 75 where we see her watching Gray and the rest of team Natsu at the resort.

It was at this point that Juvia approached Gray properly when she finally caught him alone, and they went to get drinks together. It’s supported by the manga that Juvia joining Fairy Tail would have caused a backlash, as even Gray was wary of her joining because of the things that they did, but he personally did not mind her joining.  Juvia then spent the rest of the arc openly helping Gray and his friends in the Tower Of Heaven. 

At the end of the arc, when Erza asked after Juvia, Gray was the one who knew her name, and where she had gone. Once team Natsu returned to FT, Juvia became a member, and Gray was quite happy about it. After chapter 75 Juvia has never in the manga followed Gray without his knowledge again until chapter 416, where she came to apologize for what happened to Gray’s father. 

When Gray seemed dismayed that Juvia had followed him to his parents grave, she immediately apologized. 

In fact, Juvia has apologized a few times within the series when she thought she upset Gray, including in 413 Days when she apologized for fearing that she ruined Gray’s day of mourning. But, in fact, Gray ended up also apologizing to her, because he thought it was his fault. He profusely apologized to her in chapter 416 as well while sobbing in her arms.

II. Gray’s feelings

Update: 100 Years Quest panels added as of March 2021. If Gray was so uncomfortable and disliked Juvia’s presence, the above scene would not have happened. He appreciates and is grateful for Juvia always being next to him, which by default completely annihilates the claim that he is disgusted by her. This is obvious because we see the change in their relationship throughout the course of the manga, on panel. I repeat, Gray likes the fact that Juvia is always by his side and wants her there.

Furthermore, Juvia’s comedic advances and Gray’s reactions (which have actually become softer/changed) are exaggerated on purpose. Japanese love this type of humor use in their mangas. It’s meant to be lighthearted, not give off an awful message regarding a pairing. As with many shounen, panel space is often limited for character interactions, so “dramatic” presentations are necessary for conveying points. Mashima-sensei has only ever portrayed Juvia’s love as a positive thing for both characters. Her love for Gray has saved not just Gray’s life, but also the lives of others on multiple occasions. 

While it’s true Mashima-sensei loves using Juvia for comic relief from time to time, it’s important to not let the jokes outweigh the serious moments. In reality, we are not supposed to put so much stock into comedy. Adding to the fact that Juvia’s fight with Meredy proved her love for Gray to be genuine, there’s another factor some people seem to miss.  

In the final chapter of the Tartarus arc, Juvia was about to give up on her love for Gray because she believed she did not have the right to love him anymore. She truly thought it was for his sake, and was prepared to be hated by Gray forever. An obsessive person or crazy stalker would never do this. But Juvia did, expecting this would ruin any chance she had with Gray, and was positive she would be loathed. However she knew confessing what she did was the right thing to do and came clean. Here, Mashima-sensei is showing the difference between an unhealthy obsessed individual and someone who’s love is selfless as they put the other person’s feelings above their own. Above all, Gray didn’t let Juvia give up on him. He embraced her, thanked her, and cried in her arms.

Chapter 499 speaks for itself, so I really don’t see the need to touch upon it other than the fact that the Japanese raw text confirms that Gray does see Juvia as more than a friend, aka, a love interest. As if his actions in the chapter and prior to weren’t enough. Double suicide in Japan is one of the most romantic acts of love based on samurai history.

In the official canon sequel, Fairy Tail 100 Years Quest, it’s confirmed on multiple occasions that Gray loves Juvia romantically. View posts here and here for the breakdowns. But the key lines are as follows. Gray says: “Romantic love, huh?” *thinks of Juvia while he blushes and smiles* “And then I swear I’ll make her mine”. “She’s my power to live”. And of course…. Juvina says… “But you didn’t deny that you love her” …to Gray, about Juvia.

Even in the final chapter of the original Fairy Tail (chapter 545) Gray tells Juvia that she is his. Juvia belongs to Gray, canon fact in the manga.

III. The definition of a stalker

a person who harasses or persecutes someone with unwanted and obsessive attention.

a person who harasses another person, as a former lover, a famous person, etc., in an aggressive, often threatening and illegal manner.

Neither of the above definitions describes Juvia’s character. Juvia would be the last person in the world to harass or threaten Gray in any way. The two times she watched him were harmless and there were justified reasons behind them. Back to the definition; Juvia doesn’t need to do any of these things, because she is Gray’s friend, and at this point, so much more than that. She’s a partner, they go on missions together, socialize together, and have even lived together. 

Real cases for stalking often involve the stalker having control over their victim, sometimes employing fear in a desperate attempt to maintain control, which Juvia has NEVER done. Admiring someone from afar is not the same as stalking them, especially when you don’t have the courage to talk to them. That’s why Juvia quickly threw the bento in Gray’s hands without trying to be noticed. She wanted to do nice things for him, but couldn’t do them directly out of nervousness. That’s not what stalkers do. And of course, as stated above, Juvia was about to give up on Gray. Stalkers aren’t willing to give up their ties with the person.

Juvia does not need to “stalk” Gray. She stands proudly by his side with no reluctance from him.

And even more importantly Gray has never expressed any adversity to Juvia’s presence. If anything, he has expressed the opposite. Gray of his own accord hangs around her. And Gray had mentioned once in 338 that he would say no to the things he dislikes from then on. Yet he had never said no before, nor after that statement. In fact, he contradicted his own statement later on by eating the bread Juvia offered him, and holding her hand in comfort during the Tartarus arc.  

We also have to keep in mind Gray falls under the tsundere character trope, which means his actions often contradict his words, and as stated above, his adverse reactions are often played off comedically, because he is not being honest about his actual feelings. Juvia’s earnest feelings towards Gray usually cause the cool and collected character to lose his composure. That’s the joke. 

IV. Conclusion

Juvia is often labeled a stalker while we look past Gajeel crucifying Levy or Jellal trying to murder Erza. All of these things occurred at the beginning, but have ceased to be current habits. That’s character development. It’s one thing to not like a ship because of the dynamic. But it’s a double standard to hail the development of one ship and ignore another. People simply cannot move passed Juvia’s first impression, and that is sad.

Every pairing has its shtick, such as Natsu touching Lucy inappropriately and breaking into her house, and Levy hitting Gajeel often. Humor is completely subjective, that’s true, however it’s obvious what Mashima-sensei intends to fall under the umbrella of humor, and that absolutely includes Juvia’s antics and Gray’s reactions to them. Saying they aren’t meant to be funny is just being purposely oblivious and contrary. You don’t have to think it’s funny to know it’s meant as a joke. Gruvia gets condemned by the fandom the most when it comes to their particular aspect of humor, and that is unfair. 

This is a fictional world, they are fictional characters, and they do not have to meet real life standards. Many of the characters within Fairy Tail have quirks or perform actions that are not acceptable in reality. Fairy Tail itself is a fantasy manga. The world and the characters are exaggerated for the purpose of drama and comedy. This fantasy world is also based on Japanese humor and storytelling conventions, and ignoring this fact can lead to misunderstanding characters. 

Juvia has not watched Gray from a distance without his knowledge since before she joined Fairy Tail. That was at least 11 years ago in both our timeline and the manga time line (counting the 7 year time skip). No one in the Fairy Tail universe, nor Mashima-sensei, seem to think Juvia’s actions from her introduction need to be addressed or redeemed, because it is a non-issue that only certain parts of the fandom can’t let go of. She will not vocally apologize for a problem that doesn’t exist. 

Someone comparing Juvia to a stalker, and claiming they “understand” because they have been stalked before (aka self inserting in a fantasy manga), is an insult to those who are real stalking victims. Don’t do it.

Gray, especially, has gone so far passed his initial relationship and dynamic with Juvia. It’s sad that so many fans are concerned on Gray’s behalf, but never truly take Gray’s actual feelings or words into consideration. He cares for Juvia, he loves Juvia romantically, and he is grateful she is by his side. He’s willing to go above and beyond, including sacrificing his life for her (twice) just to ensure her safety. Those are not the feelings of someone who is a victim of stalking. 

#still relevant

[squisherific]

The official Gruvia Week 2021 prompts are here! The first Gruvia Week was in 2013, so this is the 9th edition. Crazy how time flies!

Those who are new to the week, unfamiliar, or would like to simply rehash, please click here to learn how to participate. Also be sure to follow the rules and guidelines. Feel free to ask questions, however please check this blog’s previous posts before submitting them. It’s possible your question could have already been answered. 

Reminder: All pieces must be new. Old works will not be reblogged/included in the week. Be sure to specify the day/prompt used in your post. If you don’t have a tumblr, you can still participate. Just submit your work to this blog or submit the link to it (if posted on another platform such as twitter or instagram) and this blog will post it for you. At first glance you may think some of these prompts are “complicated”. They aren’t. These prompts are broad, and meant to make you think; be creative. If you don’t know what a word means, the internet is your friend. Google it. For example, “beguile” simply means “charm or enchant (someone), sometimes in a deceptive way” or “to help (time) pass pleasantly”.

Prompts for this event are always different every year. No repeats! Previous Gruvia Week editions

Reminders:

 Tag your work with #gruvia week (with the space) within the first five tags. 

Avoid using links in your post, as there is a chance it will not show up in the tags. Try using only five tags and no links if your post does not appear. 

If your work contains an image or gif, make sure it’s within tumblr’s photo dimensions and size limits. Sometimes big images cause posts to not appear in tags. 

It is YOUR responsibility to make sure your post shows up in the mobile and/or pc tags, so be sure to check if it does. 

Gruvia Week will be held from April 1st - April 7th as always. Get ready and get creative!

#gruvia week #yayyyyy

[squisherific]

Gruvia and NaLu Families ♡

Official art by Hiro Mashima and Atsuo Ueda

[squisherific]

❄️グレジュビ一家 Gruvia Family💧

Official Art by Hiro Mashima

[squisherific]

So detailed and well explained!!

Hi everyone!🤗

It’s been awhile since I posted my first video! Finally, I’m able to post another one. 

This time I’m talking about the conversation between Gray and Juvia in the final chapter of Fairy Tail (chapter 545).

Specifically this line: ”Your body is…” “…something…I care about…cause you’re mine…kinda…um… ”

What did Gray mean when he said “your body is mine”, “you’re mine”? 

Why was he a bit ambiguous?

I made this video based on my thoughts as a Japanese fan. Please have a look!

Also, it seems I am now able to update more frequently in the future, so by all means please subscribe to my channel!😎

[squisherific]

Remember the phone case contest from back in July? Yeah, we won. We knew we did. The company was honest after all. :) You can buy the case here, for several different iPhones: Official website: https://docollabo.jp/ More direct link: https://onlineshop.smt.docomo.ne.jp/options/search.html?category=11 Those who can, please support the company by purchasing the case! Congrats Gruvia fans!

#yay we won!!

[squisherific]

Gray and Juvia sketches + Gruvia Wedding sketch from Hiro Mashima’s Online Autograph session, October 17th 2020

[squisherific]

okay one more Like father, like son ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

*waits for earthland version even though Mashima technically already drew the earthland version*