"Natsu!" -Person talking.
"Natsu!"- Person thinking.
"Fire Dragon's Iron Fist!" -Magic.
Hello. I decided to take this story since the author who started it wasn't updating it anymore.
There is a small twist it from my own doing. I hope readers will like it.
The Pairing: Natsu x Erza x Mirajane x ? (I'm still thinking on who to add.) I will only have 3 girls in the Harem.
I do not own Fairy Tail or any of it's characters. It is owned by Mashima.
One Night in Magnolia- Saturday
A blinding flash of lightning flooded Magnolia as torrential rain raged unendingly on the peaceful Town. An instant later, the loud rumble of thunder crashed through the Town's graveyard. In front of a particular gravestone, a lean, muscular young man of average height with a slightly tan skin tone, black eyes, damp pink-colored hair sat down on his knees. He wore a sleeveless, gold trimmed, black waistcoat, left open and untucked, exposing his bare chest. He has a gold trimmed, black cloth around his waist that reached his knees, held by a leather brown belt with an oval-shaped silver buckle, he completed his outfit with white knee-length trousers with black ribbon ties and a black open-toed sandals along with a scale-patterned scarf around his neck.
Natsu Dragneel lifted his head slightly to stare with his dull, empty onyx eyes at the name imprinted on the gravestone.
Lisanna Strauss.
A week had passed since the cheerful, sweet and adorable Lissana died and at the age of fifteen no less. The tragedy struck the Fairy Tail hard making the once loud and lively Guild to become gloomy and sad. No one could believe what happened. But, no one was more shocked and sad as Natsu and Lissana's siblings. Mirajane Strauss stayed cooped up in her house, crying from the guilt of believing that it was her fault. Elfman has became withdrawn lately, blaming himself for killing his little sister. Natsu didn't even attend Lisanna's funeral -much to the surprise of everyone who knew of his friendship with the younger Strauss- as he waited for it to end before he visited the graveyard.
The Self proclaimed Dragon Slayer clenched his palms into fists with a stray tear traveling down his right eye as he thought back to events that took place a week ago...
Flashback a week ago
Natsu Dragneel had no idea that his day was going to go so bad when he wake up. It all started with him eating all of Happy's fish earning him the ire of the blue cat which struck a fight between them. They were fighting under a tree until Lissana stepped in.
Lissana was a young petite girl with short, white hair and blue eyes. She wore a red dress that reached her knees. She placed her hands on her hips and looked down disapprovingly at her 'family', "You two are fighting again?" she asked.
"Oh, Lisanna. You're back!" Natsu grinned as he greeted his long time friend. happy to see her again after She finished her job.
Unfortunately, Happy didn't share his happiness as he began to complain, "Natsu's being mean! He ate all fish!"
Lisanna was about to scold her 'husband' for bothering their 'son' but, a voice stopped her from doing so.
"Lissana!" Elfman shouted as he approached the group. Elfman was a large, muscular man with tan colored skin, extremely tall. He has long white hair that he kept styled upwards in long, wavy spikes, his dark eyes possessed no visible eyebrows and his rectangular, elongated face has a stitched scar running down its right side, crossing his right eye. His attire was a typical Japanese high-school hooligans: it consisted of a dark blue jacket with purplish blue inners, held closed on the front by a line of large buttons, with similar buttons on the sleeves' back and the zip located on the high collar left open. His outfit completed by loose pants matching his jacket, held up by a simple belt, and traditional Japanese geta sandals. He was accompanied with his and Lissana's elder sister, Mirajane Strauss.
Mirajane was a slim young woman of below average height. She has long, white hair which was curled slightly at the ends, with two bangs framing her face and reaching down to her chest. She has a large strand cover her forehead freely, and had most of her hair tied in a high, larger ponytail on the back of her head by a massive dark ribbon. She has large blue eyes and a curvy, voluptuous body, with large breasts. She wore a gothic-looking, overly revealing outfit matching the tomboyish personality she had. She donned a dark, skimpy sleeveless shirt adorned with some light curved motifs on the chest, a pair of leather shorts held up by a studded belt with a demonic-looking buckle and thigh-high boots with stiletto heels, each bearing a skull adorned by a flower on their upper front parts. She also sported a bracelet shaped like a demonic arm around her right wrist, a ring on the same hand's middle finger, and dark nail polish.
"We have a job to do!" Elfman said as he stopped in front of them.
"Eh? But we just go back!" Lisanna replied.
"It's an S-Class quest! Nee-chan took one!"
At the mention of an S-Class mission, Natsu jumped to his feet barely hiding his excitement, "What job it is?!" he shouted with a massive grin.
"It's an emergency job to get rid of a monster called "The beast" the so-called beast king." Mirajane was the one to response. She then gave him a wink, "You wanna come? It will be a good experience for you." she smiled at his more than eager expression.
"YES! I'm in!" the Dragon Slayer shouted as he bounced up and down in excitement.
Unfortunately for him, Elfman didn't agree with his big sister's proposition as he immediately protested, "A man should protect his family on his own!"
"Oi! Don't hog all the fun!" Natsu shouted as he stomped on the ground like a child before they began to argue until it was decided that he won't go with them.
Moments later, the Strauss siblings walked away from a dejected Natsu as he sat pouting in irritation. Glancing at the retreating trio, the Fire Dragon Slayer felt a deep chill go down his spine. He got a horrible feeling that something bad was about to happen.
Hours Later
Chaos was everywhere, The Town was completely destroyed. Flames were everywhere. Luckily the citizens were evacuated. The reason for that was the so called King of monsters.
Mirajane cursed herself for being so careless. She was on the ground bleeding and exhausted, her eyes took in the sight of the beast that was controlling her brother.
His size was exponential, with large arms that sprouted sharp claws, they were covered in thick fur, with his abdominal and pectorals prominent in the middle. His hair took on a mane-like appearance, his ears and canine teeth become pointed, and he had a pair of striped horns pointing upwards, starting from a plate on his forehead. His legs were dark hooves, and he also gained a pair of protrusions sprouting from his shoulders, similar in appearance to their horns. his eyes glow purple and the scar on his eye is much larger than usual.
After seeing Mirajane losing the battle against the beast, Elfman tried to Take Over it's soul but, the Beast's will was too strong as it still had some fight left. As a result, Elfman was the one who was taken over and was now rampaging through the town.
"Elfman! Pull yourself together!" Mirajane tried to reach her brother. but to no avail. Elfman approached her before raising his monstrous arm and bringing it down on Mirajane. The eldest Strauss closed her eyes waited for her death at the hands of her own little brother.
"Look out!" the sudden shout echoed through Mirajane's ears before she found herself being tackled out of Elfman's arm reach.
Looking up, Mirajane was completely flabbergasted when she saw who saved her, "Natsu... " she whispered.
Natsu grinned at her, "Just in time!" he said as he stood up and looked at the beast.
"W-what are you doing here?!" Mirajane asked in confusion. Still shocked at the turn of events.
"I had a bad feeling about this mission so I come to check it out." Natsu replied as he furrowed his eyebrows, "What happened?"
"I was careless. Elfman tried to Take Over the beast to protect me!" she told him while gripping her injured right arm, "But it's magic is too powerful! Elfman's lost control of himself!"
"What's going to happen to him?!" Natsu asked in panic. Fearing for his friend's safety.
"We need to get him to come to his senses before the beast takes permanent control!"
"I see! So we gotta beat him up!" Natsu declared as he prepared to attack the beast, "Snap out of it, Elfman!" he shouted as he started to fill up his stomach with flames. it grew out to an unusual size as he leaned back.
"No stop! You can't beat him in this state!" Mirajane shouted as she tried to stand, but her condition didn't allow her. She knew that Natsu was stronger than Elfman in normal circumstances, but now that the beast had taken over him. She doubted that Natsu would win.
Unfortunately, her shouts were ignored as Natsu placed his hands right outside his mouth in a grasping motion, "Fire Dragon's Roar!" with a yell, he let out at jet of flames from his mouth that were sent straight for Elfman. The attack hit the beast, engulfing it in flames.
Natsu smirked as he thought that the beast was beaten by his attack. His eyes suddenly widened when a monstrous arm headed straight at him and smacked him away, sending him flying like a rag doll much to Mirajane's horror.
"Natsu!" she shouted in worry. She won't handle it if he died because of her.
"Aghhhh!" Natsu groaned in pain as he clutched his abdomen, "Damn! That thing hit hard!" If it wasn't for his immense endurance, he would had been seriously wounded. He stood back up and slowly walked beside Mirajane.
"Idiot! What were you thinking?!" Mirajane exclaimed angrily causing him to flinch. She then blew a sigh, "Run. I will try to buy you some time."
"What?! Are you crazy?! I won't let you fight him alone!" Natsu immediately replied. He didn't come here just to get a beating and then running away like a coward!
Mirajane gritted her teeth. Why was he even doing this?! She had never been nice to him before! In opposite, she bullied and made fun of him! She was about to yell at him, but her little sister's voice stopped her.
"Mira-nee! I evacuated everyone in the town!" Lisanna yelled from the air as she was in her bird form, "What happened? And why are you here, Natsu?" she asked when her eyes caught Natsu after landing on the ground.
"Not the time for that! Run, Lisanna! Elfman was taken over by the beast!"
"No way!" Lisanna placed her hands on her mouth in shock. She turned around to look at her brother. She slowly walked until she was a few feet away from him.
"What the hell are you doing, get away from him Lissana!" Natsu shouted, but was completely ignored as the white haired girl began talking to the beast.
"What's the matter, Elf-ni-chan? It's me, Lisanna. Your little sister." the young girl spread her arms as if wanting him to hug her, "Have you forgotten Mira-nee too?" she continued as the beast's glowing eyes were fixed on her petite form, "You'd never really forget about us, would you? After all, Mira and I love you so much!" a bright smile adored her face as she reached for him, "Now let's go home... Elf-nichan!"
As she finished speaking, a loud whack rang through the area as Elfman's arm hit her with such force that she was sent flying a mile away.
"LISANNA!" Mirajane screamed in horror as she watched her little sister fly away. With sudden force, she dashed as fast as she could toward the direction of her sister with tears streaming down her face all the way there hoping for any deity up there that Lisanna was still alive.
Natsu was stunned into absolute immobility. His eyes couldn't get any wider then now. His lips and eyes trembling as he tried to call Lisanna's name but all what could get out of his mouth were breaths that came in short and quivering gasps. He tried to take a step forward, but he only fell on his knees and let out a gut-wrenching scream.
End of Flashback
Natsu almost broke into tears. The only thing that stopped him was the image of a smiling Lisanna. He couldn't help but feel responsible for her death, if only he was stronger. He could have stopped the possessed Elfman from killing her, she would still be here with them smiling cheerefully making everyone lively.
He clenched the dirt in his fists tightly. He had to get stronger! He had to become the strongest so he could protect everyone one precious to him but, he did not know how to do that, he had no one to guide him!
A few yards away, a young woman was walking down the street, using an umbrella to cover herself from the rain. She was a beautiful woman with long, scarlet hair and brown eyes. She has a slender, voluptuous figure. Her amazing figure was covered with a custom-made armor by Heart Kreuz smiths, a blue skirt, black boots, and diamond shaped silver earrings on each ear.
Erza Scarlet was completely baffled at the Storm. It caught her completely by surprise. Luckily, she stored an umbrella in her pocket dimension. As she walked toward her room in Fairy Hills. Her thought wandered over the events that took place in the week, she was saddened by Lisanna's demise, but she knew that Mirajane and Elfman were broken by now. She felt sorry for them.
However, it paled when she tried to imagine what Natsu was feeling right now. in fact, now that she thought about it, Lisanna was the only friend he had in the Guild. She felt a pang in her chest when she thought about how the death of his friend must be affecting the boy. She heard that he witnessed her death with his very own eyes. It reminded her of her own situation. The despair one would feel when they couldn't save someone they loved. She, atleast, was a kid when she lost grandpa Rob however, Natsu was a mage and a strong one at that but, even with his strength, he couldn't save his friend. As she was just passing by the graveyard, she caught something from the corner of her eye. A damp mop of pink hair.
Natsu? Did he come to visit her?
The Knight turned and walked in the direction of the Dragon Slayer. She noticed that he was in his usual sleeveless vest, and had nothing to cover himself from the rain, Isn't he cold? she idly thought, but resisted the urge to smack her face as she remembered that the cold and heat didn't bother him.
Erza decided that the best thing to do right now was to do what Lisanna always have done, instead of beating him up like she normally do. She walked up to Natsu until she was standing right next to him, and noticed that his clothes were completely soaked. She frowned when she noticed his dull, empty eyes as he stared blankly at Lisanna's gravestone. To any simple mage, they looked dull and empty of any life but, to her, she could clearly see the regret and grief in them.
"Hey Natsu." She said softly, but got no response from the pink haired boy who continued to look blankly at the gravestone, "Natsu?" She asked again, placing a hand on his shoulder, but she still got no response out of him. Letting a deep sigh, she was about to forcefully turn his head to look at her. Before she could do, Natsu's voice stopped her.
"I-If… only I was stronger… " His voice was hoarse and weak, clearly he hadn't spoken to anyone for a while causing Erza to frown, "D-do you think she'd still be here with us… with us… if I was stronger?"
Erza's eyes widened in shock, he was putting all the blame on himself?! She looked at him and was taken aback by the look on his face. His eyes were lost, and he looked confused about what he should do. She had never seen him look so defeated. "Natsu… You can't blame yourself for her de-" she tried to comfort him but he sharply cut her off.
"No!" Natsu shouted, his eyes becoming misty, "It's my fault! Because of my weakness, Lisanna died! I couldn't even protect her with my body!… if… if I was stronger, I would have defeated that beast… … and Lisanna would still be here!" he punched the ground creating a hole. He abruptly stood up and turned around. The red haired woman was shocked when she saw his appearance. His eyes had deep bags underneath them, his skin was pale, and his cheeks were hollow. His frame was weak-looking as if he didn't eat for days.
"Natsu… how long have you been here?" She asked but she feared what his answer will be.
"… Wednesday…" Natsu whispered after a slight pause. He didn't care about what would happen to him, all he wanted was a way to get stronger. He missed the shocked gasp that Erza let out at his response.
"W-Wednesday!? You've been sitting here for four days!?" Erza exclaimed in shock, "What did you do about food?! Where did you sleep, Natsu?!"
"I… I didn't." Natsu whispered, "I didn't sleep or eat…I don't need to anyway." he spoke and began walking away.
"What do you mean by that?! You have to take care of your health, Natsu!" Erza scolded, but she was ignored by him as he just walked. She was then surprised when he collapsed face first, with a gasp, she dropped her umbrella and dashed at him, "Natsu?! What's wrong?!" she placed his head on her lap and asked him but, she saw his eyes closed and concluded that he passed out. She swiftly lifted him and began walking to Fairy Hills. She wanted to take him there so he could rest, even if it was only a girls dormitory, she didn't care. Her friend come first.
As she walked, she thought back to Natsu's state. Erza never saw Natsu so empty, he was normally so cheerful and lively. Sadness didn't suit him the slightest. Her eyes gained a determined glint as she made up her mind right then and there, she would help Natsu. There was no way in hell that she would let him go through this again!
As they walked away from the graveyard and into the streets of Magnolia, they both failed to notice a man watching them with a serious look on his face behind a pillar. He was a tall, muscular man with shoulder-length slicked orange hair and a stubbly beard. His heavily muscular body was covered by his outfit which was rather simple; he wore a long, black, high-collared and tattered cloak with shoulder plates; around his waist was a simple belt. Gildarts also wore loose-fitting dark pants, complete with an armored waist-guard bearing plates similar to the ones on his shoulders, tucked inside simple boots. His black eyes followed Natsu's figure as Erza carried him away, He wants to get stronger, eh? A massive smile made its way onto the man's face, I guess I've found an apprentice.
Gildarts Clive was a very long 100-year quest. However, he briefly stopped the mission and come back to Magnolia. He was completely devastated when he heard about Lisanna's death, the young Strauss was like a daughter to him. His sadness quickly turned into worry as he remembered that Natsu whom he also considered as a son, had a very close relationship with the ivory-haired young girl. So he searched for the young boy and found him sitting down in front of the gravestone.
As he was about to go and try to help his son figure, Erza showed up and took his place. Gildarts then decided he would just let the youngsters have their moments. He turned to leave but, he stopped dead in his tracks when he heard Natsu's words. Looking back at the brat that always challenged him to fight, he could see his desire to get stronger, the determination to protect his loved ones.
Truth to be told, Gildarts knew that he was getting older, no matter how much he hated to admit it. He was already forty three years old and was getting even older. The 100 year mission he took was dangerous and Gildarts wasn't sure of returning from it alive. That's why he wanted to teach his magic to someone who was worth it, he decided to take on an apprentice. It was the sole reason of why he stopped his mission.
He didn't find anyone worthy of it in his travels until he remembered the brats in Fairy Tail. There was Gray, an Ice mage and Laxus, a very strong young man. However, they both didn't have the things that Gildarts wanted in his apprentice. Gray wasn't someone to learn his magic as he was an Ice mage, it couldn't match. Laxus was arrogant and if Gildarts taught him Crash Magic, his arrogance would be limitless. That only left Natsu. The hot headed Dragon Slayer that had an immense potential, also he had all the attributes that Gildarts wanted in his apprentice. Not just that, but his will to protect who he hold dear was something to respect.
He cut his musings off when he found himself in front of the Fairy Tail's doors. He grinned as he made his forward. Instead of opening the doors like normal people do, the doors glowed white before being reduced to small cubes that was sent flying everywhere inside the Guildhall. He looked around and saw that the guild was empty which didn't surprise him much since it was night time. Gildarts made his way up to Makarov's office, he wanted to talk with the old man about his intentions of taking Natsu with him on a training trip.
The third guild master of Fairy Tail, Makarov Dreyar was about to lock up his office door for the night, before he heard footsteps behind him. Makarov was an extremely short, elderly man. He has black eyes and was growing bald with only the outer rims of his head containing white hair. He also has a thick white mustache. He has a black stamp of Fairy Tail that covers his entire chest area. His outfit consisted of a white shirt with a black Fairy Tail stamp in the middle, which covered by an orange hoodie. His attire was completed with matching orange shorts and an orange and blue stripes designed jester hat.
He turned his head and was shocked when he saw Gildarts Clive, the guild's Ace. He couldn't believe that he was here, he thought that he had been on the century mission, "Gildarts?! What are you doing here?!"
"Hello to you too, Master." Gildarts said sarcastically.
Makarov just sighed, "Hello. Now, can you tell what you are doing here? I thought you were on the 100 year quest." Makarov stated, wondering what was going on.
"Well, there's something I want to talk to you about." Gildarts said with a sudden serious expression on his face, something that was rare for the orange haired man, the look caused Makarov to become serious too, if Gildarts was like, then it wasn't something to take lightly.
The old man raised an eyebrow, "Oh really? And what exactly do you want to talk about?" he hoped it was nothing bad.
"I want to talk to you about Natsu." The answer made Makarov even more confused. He knew the boy was having a hard time now and wondered what the Ace of Fairy Tail wanted from him.
"Natsu? What about him?" he asked.
"I want to make him my apprentice." Gildarts grinned widely.
Sweat started to cover Makarov's face, it was not looked like Gildarts was joking. A vision appeared before his sight: Natsu marching through the city smashing buildings with Crash Magic and breathing Fire from his mouth destroying everything left and right. Gildarts poker faced as the old man fainted from horror and shock.
With Natsu and Erza
Erza sighed as she watched Natsu sleep. Just as she thought, some of the girls tried to tell her it was against the rules for boys to be at Fairy Hills, but as soon as they saw how Natsu looked with a sharp glare from her, they stayed quiet and let the Titania carry the Dragon Slayer to her room.
After they arrived at her room, Erza had woke Natsu up and made him sit at her table while she made him something to eat, which the Dragon Slayer was grateful for, before she lead him to her room and let him sleep on her bed. Natsu practically passed out as soon as his head hit the pillow. Erza absently stroked Natsu's hair as she thought about the look on Natsu's face earlier. She could not forgot that lost look in his eyes for a long time, his state had hit her hard and she desesperetly wanted to help her friend, He looked so defeated, completely different from how he usually act. Just how hard did Lisanna's death hit you, Natsu? Erza mentally thought with a frown on her beautiful face. I never want to see that look on your face again, the Natsu I know should never look like that. But as much as she thought about it, she didn't know how to help him, she was never one to confort people when they were down.
Just how am I going to help you, Natsu? Erza thought in distress feeling useless for once in her life.
The Next Day
Natsu groaned as his eyes fluttered open, before he shut them when the light hit his face. He felt a soft surface underneath him and a warm blanket covering him, and wondered where he was. Memories from last night flooded his brain and his eyes widened. Erza must brought me here.
He heard the door open and saw Erza walk in. He saw a look of surprise cross her face before she smiled at him, "Glad to see you're up, Natsu. I thought you were going to sleep all day."
Natsu chuckled forcefully, "Yeah, well I feel like I could." he faked a chuckle hoping that she didn't catch it.
Erza frowned when she heard Natsu's fake laugh, He must still be feeling gave him a small smile, "Come along, Natsu, we're going to go get some breakfast."
"O-Okay, Erza." Natsu said before he got out of Erza's bed, noticing how wet it was. He turned to Erza with an apologetic and slightly fearful look hoping she won't beat him up for ruining her bed, "S-Sorry about your bed Erza, I'll clean it up." He said and was about to do so but, Erza waved him off much to his slight surprise.
"Don't worry about it Natsu, I'll clean it up later. Besides, I let you sleep in my bed so you shouldn't feel bad about it." Erza spoke softly, not wanting Natsu to feel worse than he already does. She had caught his fear and felt bad. She always hated it when he looked at her with fear filled eyes.
"Okay, Erza." Natsu gave her a small smile before he walked towards the door. He was caught off guard by Erza's attitude but didn't show it. She must feel pity for me. He thought.
Erza smiled at him and placed a hand on his shoulder, "Come on, let's go to the guild. I'm sure people want to know how you're doing, and if Gray tries to fight you, I'll have your back." she was sure that he won't be in the mood to fight now.
As they walked out of Fairy Hills and towards Magnolia, Erza kept glancing in Natsu's direction and frowned when she noticed that he still had a slightly lost look in his eyes.
They walked for about 15 minutes before Erza stopped in front of a café, prompting Natsu to stop as well. Natsu breathed in the sweet aroma coming from the café and felt his mouth water at the smell. He followed Erza inside and they looked at the menu on the wall before they ordered their food.
They sat down at a table and waited for their food to be prepared. Natsu forced a smile, "Thanks for letting me stay with you last night, if you didn't I would probably still be at the graveyard." His voice cracked a little at the end. He was in her debt and he will return the favor someday.
Erza frowned, "It was no problem Natsu, it was the least I could do for you." She said softly, placing her hand on his. Warm. She thought as she squeezed his hand.
Natsu gave her another forced smile, though this one appeared to be a bit genuine. Natsu looked down at the food that was set in front of him, and whispered "Thank you Erza, I can't thank you enough."
Later
The Guild was back to its usual rowdy self, though you could tell that people were still mourning the death of Lisanna. Currently, the Guild was having one of their infamous brawls, and that was the scene that Natsu and Erza walked in on. The two had to duck In order to dodge the flying tables and people.
They both ignored the brawl and headed over to a table and sat down, "Well, looks like the Guild hasn't changed much." Natsu commented, normally he would be the first to fight but now that Lisanna died, he couldn't.
"Yeah, though they were really sad, I suppose they decided that Lisanna would want them to be happy." Erza's words struck Natsu deep. She was right, Lisanna wouldn't like it if she saw him like that. He could almost see her smiling face in front of his eyes, her lips opening and telling him to move on.
A tear left his eye as he bowed his head to Erza, "Thank you so much."
"Y-you're welcome." Erza was a little shocked at his words. She didn't do anything that deserved his Thanks.
The two then heard the Master's voice coming from right behind them, "Ah, Natsu! Just the person I was looking for!"
They both turned and saw the Master wearing his usual outfit, and saw that while he looked laid back, there was a seriousness in his eyes that instantly made their backs straighten. "What do you need Master?" Natsu asked nervously, he hadn't destroyed anything in weeks! What did he want with him!
"Follow me to my office." Makarov said before he turned on his heel and walked towards his office, Natsu nervously trailing behind him. He waved at Erza one last time which returned.
When they entered his office, Natsu was surprised to see Gildarts there, who greeted Natsu with a smile on his face. "Yo Natsu! You've grown a lot!"
"What are you doing here Gildarts?" Natsu asked with a raised eyebrow, wasn't the geezer in a mission?
"Well, I have a proposition for you. Something that will help you get stronger." Gildarts declared and grinned when Natsu almost jumped at him.
"You can help me get stronger? How!?" Natsu practically yelled. This was exactly what he wanted! Getting stronger was his first objective now!
Gildarts smirked, "How would you like to become my apprentice?"
Natsu was shocked at Gildarts words. Becoming the apprentice of Fairy Tail's strongest mage? He didn't know what to think of this, could he become stronger if he take Gildarts to his offer?
The Next Day
"You're going to what?!" Erza asked in shock as Natsu informed her with his plans. She and Natsu was sitting on a table inside the Guildhall.
"I'm going with Gildarts on a training trip." Natsu repeated, "He told that he can make me stronger if I go with him. You know, I can't pass up an opportunity like this." his voice held such desperation that it made the red haired woman flinch.
Her stomach started to twist in knots. She knew that he couldn't pass this up. Too much was on the line for him. He believed that he could make it up to Lisanna. But at the same time, she was worried. She promised herself that she would help Natsu, but how could she do that if she couldn't be there for him? For a day, she was thinking of a way to help him and finally found a way. She would train with him and hopefully make him stronger than ever but, now that Gildarts offered him his help, she knew that it will be better. The Crash mage was an extremely powerful man and with his guidance, Natsu will surely become strong however, she was still worried. From what she knew, Gildarts was still on a 100 year mission, what if he decided to continue the quest with Natsu?, "How long are you planning to be gone?" She asked, trying to hide her worry but, Natsu saw through it and smiled sadly.
"Probably two years or so. I won't return until I'm strong enough." he replied honestly. He was going to train harder than anyone in Fiore. He felt Erza's hands on his and gasped slightly as warmth spread through his body. He locked eyes with her and felt all the pain and sadness melt away the longer he gazed into her brown eyes.
"Just promise me you'll be safe, okay?" Her request surprised him, he had never heard her say anything like that before. Sure, she always cared about the safety of everyone in the guild, but she had never used that much sincerity and worry in her words, his heart skipped a beat. It felt kind of nice seeing the usual strict knight worried about him of all people. He gave her his classic grin, lifting her spirits at the sight of it.
"Don't worry about me, Erza. I'll be back and better than ever!" his words relieved Erza, but she would always worry about him, she couldn't help it.
"You idiot, I'll always worry." Erza shook her head but smiled softly, "So when do you leave?" she wanted to spend some time with the Pinkette. The sudden urge to do so surprised even herself, but she just assumed that it was what friends would do.
"Oh, We're departing tomorrow. Gildarts said that we shouldn't waste time." Natsu regretted his words as he saw Erza lower her head in dejection. He quickly tried to tell her that he will ask Gildarts for more time but, the red head waved him off.
"No Natsu. Gildarts is right. The sooner you leave, the sooner you can began your training." she told him in rassurance which helped Natsu feel better.
The two were silent for a few minutes, the only noises filling their ears was the chatter of their guild mates. Erza then remembered a small matter that she forgot, "What about Happy, Natsu? Are you going to take him with you?" she asked. She would like to take care of Happy while he was gone.
"Hmmm, no I won't take him with me. I know the best person to take care of him." Natsu abruptly stood up, causing Erza's focus to immediately be drawn to him. He gave her a soft smile, "You have already done. I won't burden you with Happy."
Later
Mirajane Strauss was paying her respect in front of Lisanna's gravestone. She turned her head when she heard footsteps and was surprised when she saw Natsu walking with flowers in his hands, "W-What are you doing here, Natsu?" She asked, surprised that he was here.
"I thought I should at least pay my respects before leaving." he told her, smiling sadly as he placed the bouquet of flowers in front of Lisanna's grave.
Mirajane smiled at him, "I see. Thank you, Natsu." She told him, pulling her hair back behind her ears. She then gasped when she finally remembered his last words, "W-wait! W-what do you mean by leaving?!"
"I'm leaving on a training trip with Gildarts." he replied, getting the white haired girl to widen her eyes in shock.
"G-gildarts?! But isn't he on that mission?!"
"He interrupted the mission and come back, that when he asked me if I wanted to go with him." Natsu explained.
"I-I see.." Mirajane slightly stuttered. She wasn't going to admit out loud, but she will really miss the pink haired boy. He always made the Guild lively, how could they go without him for two years? She looked back at Lisanna's gravestone with a frown on her angelic face.
"I'm sorry...Mirajane.." Mirajane gasped at his apology and looked up at him. She couldn't see his face as he hid them behind his hair.
"Why are you apologizing for...Natsu?" She asked, confusion clear in her tone.
"It's for not being able to save her. To be honest with you...I'm blaming myself for Lisanna's death. I know I shouldn't, but that's how I feel." He told her as he frowned, remembering his friend's death, "I was there... Yet I didn't save her! I...I just can't help but blame myself...Lisanna was my friend and I..." His eyes widened when he felt Mirajane reach up and wrap her arms around him. She pulled Natsu closer to her in the hug. His head on her chest, "M-Mirajane.." he stuttered in slight shock. Mirajane, MIRAJANE was hugging him?! He almost thought that he was dreaming. Never in his life he thought that the mean and scary girl would hug him.
"Please don't blame yourself...Natsu..." Mirajane told him. Natsu could hear her voice being a little shaky. "Natsu...I didn't know that you blamed yourself for her death. But please don't...if anyone should be blamed for her death, it should be me..." Natsu's eyes widened at her words, "You and Elfman...both of you shouldn't blame yourselves. So, please...don't..." It was the last thing Natsu wanted to hear now. He placed his hands on her shoulder and pushed her back, surprising her as she gave a gasp.
"Then don't blame yourself either!" He yelled softly. Mirajane gasped at his words. "Mira-chan...If you want me and Elfman to stop blaming ourselves, then stop doing it too! Her death wasn't your fault!" he exclaimed as he brought his face closer to hers, looking into her wide blue eyes deeply.
"But..." Mirajane tried to argue, but she was cut off immediately.
"No buts! I'll stop blaming myself for Lisanna's death and so should you...so please...don't blame yourself..." He told her. Mirajane eye's widened. Tears started to fall down her eyes and when Natsu saw this, he pulled her back into the hug. Mirajane couldn't help but let her tears fall from her eyes as they soaked Natsu's vest. He didn't mind though. He knew Mirajane never showed it, but he had this feeling that she blamed herself for Lisanna's death. However, it wasn't her fault. It wasn't Elfman's fault. It wasn't his. Lisanna did what she did because she loved her brother and sister.
The two of them stayed like this for a couple of minutes. Mirajane's crying slowly came to a stop. She pulled away from him and wiped any remaining tears from her eyes. Natsu noticed a tear escape from her right eye that she missed and lifted his hand to her face to wipe it away from her. Mirajane blushed at the feeling of his fingers across her face and looked at him. He was grinning at her. "Thank you…." Mirajane answered, her face flushed. Her heart began to beat faster when he gave a warm smile, "When are you leaving?" she asked as she thought of an idea.
"Tomorrow. Why?" asked Natsu in confusion.
"Would you like for me to cook you some food before you leave?" she offered and was surprised when he wrapped his arms around her waist. She blushed at the closeness and could feel her chest pressing against his.
"Really?! That'd be cool! Food for me to take will be great! I don't think Gildarts know how to cook. So I will probably starve to death with him!"
With Gildarts
The Crash mage suddenly sneezed as he continued to think of the torture err training he should put his new apprentice through.
I wonder if I am getting a cold?
With Natsu and Mirajane
The white haired beauty giggled at Natsu's 'faith' in his soon to be mentor, "Of course, I will finish it by tonight."
"Oh Thanks! You're the best, Mira!" Natsu exclaimed in excitement as he unknowingly lifted the woman by her waist and spun her around. A small squeal escaped her mouth before it transformed into laughter for the first time in days.
Early Next Morning
Erza let out a dejected sigh as she waited for Natsu to come. She crossed her arms under her big bust and leaned against a pillar. She had the feeling that she was going to terribly miss him. The sudden feeling both bothered and surprised her. But, no matter how much she wanted him to stay, she couldn't get in the way of his ambition of becoming stronger. She stopped her thoughts when a person came into her view and she recognized her immediately.
Mirajane was slowly walking toward the place that Natsu told her her he will be this day. She was dreading the moment he would leave and she won't see him for two years. She knew that she shouldn't be so dependent on Natsu. But, couldn't help it as his mere presence did nothing but to calm and comfort her after her sister's demise.
That was when she caught something that catched her attention. jolting her out of her thoughts. She glanced ahead to see Erza.
"Erza?"
"Mirajane?"
They asked at the same time, causing an awkward silence to fell. Erza cleared her throat and spoke, "What are doing here, Mirajane?" she asked her rival or rather her ex-rival.
"I could ask you the same thing, Erza." Mirajane retorted.
"W-well, I come to say goodbye to Natsu." The red haired woman said before frowning, "And you?"
"The same thing as you." replied Mirajane.
"I see."
Another awkward silence fell between them. But, it was justified. After all, their entire lives, all they did was fighting and insulting each other. As to save them from the silence, Natsu appeared with Gildarts in tow. The Dragon Slayer was carrying a huge backpack that looked like it was going to burst from how much it was stretched. Gildarts had only a bag that he had on his right shoulder.
"Yo!" Natsu greeted with a grin as Gildarts raised an eyebrow when he saw the two young girls.
"We came here to see you off." Erza spoke to him as the two men stopped walking. She then bowed to Gildarts, "Please take care of him." she requested.
Gildarts sheepishly rubbed the back of his head, "Yeah."
They sighed as silence fell on them. It was time. Erza stepped up to hug Natsu first, "Stay safe and don't do anything stupid." Natsu returned the hug with a soft smile. Erza stepped back and allowed Mirajane to hug Natsu this time.
"Stay safe and try to not become a pervert like him." she whispered, causing him to sweat drop at her advice, like hell he will become a womanizer like Gildarts! "I will take care of Happy, don't worry about him." she whispered again gaining a nod of thanks from him.
"I will be back before you know it! Take good care of the Guild and make sure the others dosen't destroy it!" he joked, trying to lift the mood which worried as the two women chuckled at his ironic words.
Gildarts wiped an imaginary proud tear from his eye. His apprentice already took after him and become a ladies man! He already got two of the most beautiful women falling for him!
It was time and the two men began walking away. It wasn't long before the girls finally lost sight of the Pinkette and white specks in the distance.
Two Days Later
Natsu and Gildarts were seated at a campfire. They traveled for two days and so far all they had done was eating and sleeping. Natsu wouldn't have minded it so much if something interesting happened, but NOTHING happened. Not a single monster attack, magic battle, anything. It was starting to frustrate him to no end! "When are we going to start training?!" he finally asked what was in his mind for two Days.
"Huh, did you say something?" His 'mentor' questioned, looking up from his food.
Natsu facepalmed, he thought going training with Fairy Tail's Ace would help him, but so far nothing has happened. They were in the woods around Clover Town, camping out. Natsu had no problem with that part of the experience, he liked the forest. He grew up in one, which helped a lot.
Gildarts blew out a sigh as he saw Natsu's frustration, "Alright! We'll begin." he said much to his apprentice's joy, "First, time to see what you're made of. Just come at me with with all what you've got and we'll go from there on how to train these two years." he told his pupil who was more than eager. Gildarts then stood with a relaxed pose in front of Natsu.
"Alright!" Natsu shouted as he jumped to his feet. He ignited his fists in flames and grinned widely, "Here I come, Gildarts!" he shouted as he charged head on. He cocked back his right arm. His hand clenched into a fist that was engulfed in flames, "Fire Dragon's Iron Fist!" he shouted as he thrusted his fist forward aiming at Gildarts.
That's the first thing I need to improve in him. Not to charge at your opponent blindly. Gildarts thought as he blocked the fist with the palm of his right hand. An explosion rang behind the Crash mage but didn't bother him.
"First lesson: don't charge head on." Gildarts declared as Natsu was struggling to overpower him. He then grabbed his wrist and throw Natsu into a tree, causing it to break and fall.
Natsu grunted in pain, that old man was a damn monster just like he remembered! He then stood up and ignited his feet in flames, using as jet-propulsion he flew up in the air above the older man. He the spun in the air toward his opponent's head with a flaming spin kick, "Fire Dragon's Claw!"
Gildarts put an arm up to block the kick. The Flames disappeared. Natsu was shocked. Both by how easily his kick was blocked and the pain he felt from hitting the Crash mage's arm. It was like hitting a metal pole!
Fairy Tail's Ace then grabbed Natsu's ankle and twisted it to spin the boy once before slamming him onto the ground hard enough to crater it slightly. His speed need some work too. Gildarts thought as he retracted his arm.
Natsu growled as he quickly shook off the shock and lifted his body up by placing his hands on the ground and kicking himself up. He quickly brought his left leg, aiming a kick. But it was also blocked. Natsu didn't give up and continued to attack Gildarts with his fists covered in flames.
Every punch was blocked. No matter how hard Natsu punched, he couldn't land a hit. Sweat started to cover his body as fatigue got to him the more he continued his assault on the Crash mage. He finally ended his attack as he understood that it won't do much. He jumped backwards, making some distance between him and Gildarts.
Natsu gathered as much as magic as he could. His stomach bulged out. Placing his hands over his mouth in a grasping motion, "Fire Dragon's Roar!" Natsu released a large quantity of flames from his mouth that traveled straight at Gildarts.
You have progressed well in the past years, Natsu. Gildarts smiled as he stuck his palm toward the stream of flames. As soon as the attack made contact with his hand, it started to disassemble attack into tiny pieces flames as it slowly started to die down. Finally dispersing into the air.
Natsu panted heavily. His eyes were wide in shock at seeing one of his strongest attacks being broken so easily. He knew Gildarts was the strongest mage, but still, he should had at the least make him move from his stance.
"Wonderful, Natsu." Gildarts voice snapped Natsu from his thoughts. He looked to see the older man looking at him with pride. It confused him, he lost miserably. Why would he look at him like that?
"You have grown stronger than ever before." Gildarts spoke, and it was the truth. He still remembered how the little brat would challenge him to fight and get beat up within seconds and by simply a flick in the forehead, however, now he had to use his magic and fists to beat him, "I wasn't wrong when I decided to make you my apprentice."
"R-really?" Natsu was slightly surprised by his new mentor's praise. His face broke into a massive grin that Gildarts returned with his own.
"I will tell you this, Natsu. I am not an easy teacher, my training will be very brutal! Do you think you can handle it?" Gildarts smirked evilly.
Natsu wasn't fazed as he just continued to grin, "Bring it on, old man!"
The Crash user's eyebrows twitched in annoyance at the disrespectful remark, "That's not good. You should call me Sensei or Shishou." he needed the respect of his student.
"No way in hell, old man."