Sorry for the delay, but thank you guys for the support! And thank you for the reviews/alerts/favs/and such and such! I apologize for the lack of... effort? I dont know the exact word I should use. I've always had a pet peeve when I start taking a long time to release a chapter, I just start to rush ): So sorry! I also apologize about Sting's character being completely OOC... drat. I'll definitely attempt to get it, better? I hope... it makes me uncomfortable writing about violence that isn't comical or competitive... I hope you enjoy anyways and stick with this story til the end (: Thanks again ^^


Being held against my will, Sting had ordered Lector to forcibly take me to the training spot. I was still in a lazy, tired mood. Ever since I was young, it would take me forever to fully wake up after a long slumber, especially since I didn't exactly have the best day ever yesterday. Sting wouldn't trust someone like me to stay his place he calls his sanctuary. Smart of him, I guess.

"Neh... Sting-kun," Lector nudged his precious Dragon Slayer partner. His eyes were droopy and on the verge of just shutting completely. His legs were just as tired as he was, so he used Aera to get around. However, his flying was very unsteady. His altitude would not stay constant and often shift from high and low. "Can you carry this hog now?"

Lucky of him that I was too out of it.

Sting gestured his tuxedo exceed an approval to just slump me over on his shoulders like a piece of meat. I complained at the two of how they were treating me, but Sting never made an attempt to retaliate or respond in any way. It makes me feel awkward, but I suppose that even he has his moments in the morning... or he could be bi-polar. I mentality shrugged my shoulders at the thought.

It was just a normal field, the vegetation is decent, and not a single sign of civilization. Patches of grass and patches of dirt, was just the terrain. Few trees here and there, nothing blooming about this location. Some parts of the field were rocky and there were even ledges around the area. Surprising enough that Sting or Lector didn't try to throw me off one of them.

"Where is she?" I asked after being put down on my feet again.

Sting didn't speak, but he scanned the area like a child trying to locate the exact piece of candy he wanted. He squinted a little and pointed north after noticing a girl standing by a tree. Her back was turned so she probably didn't notice us. Slightly behind Sting, we walked up to her and finally heard our footsteps drag against the ground.

"I am honored to be in your presence, Sting-sama," she bowed in a respectful manner. The look in her eye was calm and apathetic, but glistening aura she gave off was full of excitement. I heard she has only been a member for a little over half a year. Strange how she is being treated like a new member so late into her recruitment. I suppose guilds vary. I don't really know the size of Sabertooth, so maybe this sort of thing is delayed. Erm.. I don't know.

Stupid Sting didn't make much effort to return her manners. He was being disrespectful and even more arrogant than he usually was with me. I was spacing out during their conversation and just started to stare at how the trees swayed in the breeze. Lector literally snapped me out. I quickly jolted my head toward them and saw the girl bow her head again.

"I am Yukino Aguria," she still had her head in an honorable bow. I've had people bow to me before while in Grimoire Heart, but that was because of fear. Lowering your head for just a casual introduction was just plain weird. I allowed Yukino raise her head back up. I let out my hand to her and she was visibly confused, almost to the point where she was uneasy.

She finally realizes the point of my gesture.

"Nice to meet you, I'm Clarion Ferez," we shook hands, something I haven't done in such a long time. Yukino and I exchanged respectful smiles which Sting just scoffs at. I ignore him.

Yukino seems like a really sweet girl, almost reminiscent of Meredy. Almost. I can't really judge the silver-haired Mage now though. Looks can be deceiving and for all I know, she could just be as bad as Sting.

Not many more words were exchanged after that. Sting, being a lazy ass, took the position of a referee, and a bad one at that. He explained that he wanted us to go all out and not to worry about damages that could be made on the field. He was still being a little rude brat with Lector being his miniature yes man. Rogue and his exceed were to come later on in the day, but I didn't really mind that.

"Remember, you are a member of Sabertooth and will be representing for it in the games," Sting said almost coldly to Yukino. She had a determined look on her face. "You know what that means right?"

"Yes," she responded quickly and proceeded to make the first move.

"Don't mess this up, she's a member of an opposing guild."

Nodding at her "superior", I heard light noises of jingling and clanging. It sounded like my padlocks, but much more subtle. Watching her move, Yukino pulled out a key and without another second to spare, she summoned a spirit.

The same Magic as Lucy Heartfilia, Fairy Tail's precious Celestial Spirit Mage.

"Open, gate of the heavenly scales: Libra!" A voluptuous woman appeared with scales hanging from her fingers. A rather humanoid spirit much like my own devils. Yukino commanded her to change my gravity. I smirked at this. Gravity related Magic is all too familiar and I almost felt bad for having the advantage at the moment.

Allowing the Magic to take affect, I floated up high into the air.

"Lock," I said to make my own Magic negate the Libra's gravity alteration. Even if gravity isn't visible to the naked eye, it still has Magic particles that surrounds its target, enough for me to lock up and store. Falling down back down, I could barely see that Yukino was going to open up another door.

"Open, gate of the paired fish, Pisces!"

Her upward position caused gigantic fishes to appear and soar right into my descending direction. They were beyond massive and I swear that they were going to eat me whole. Using my wits, and a little bit of luck, I had to unlock something. But considering that my Magic has been 7 years dormant, the Magic I've stored up is long forgotten and just turned into magical energy. Not bad, but not as effective or versatile.

Swiping my hands down swiftly, a wave of Magic appeared acting as a shield. The barrier was enough to deviate Pisces' incoming charge from coming any closer. Its head was now diverted and descending back to the ground. Carefully, I stepped onto one of the fishes' body and continue to run straight down. The second of the pair of fishes swooped right beside me as if it was racing with me to see who reaches to the bottom first.

"Open...," I heard Yukino's soft voice spoke. I got distracted and Pisces managed to throw me off, making me fall a rough landing. My attention was still on my opponent. "Gate of the snake charmer: Ophiuchus."

Ophiuchus? My eyes instantly widened at the name of a spirit that has been long forgotten. I wasn't even given time to think, and that gigantic snake was rushing right towards me. Its colossal size made me tremble. Zeref taught me a few lessons here and there about spirits in general. He told me that devils were just like celestial spirits, but different from each other in their own worlds. Subconsciously, I held my locks close to me and figured that I need assistance if I want to defeat the most powerful Zodiac gate. I was definitely against asking them for help, but getting a good, strong impression from Sting would be worth it. Picturing his shocked face and lowered jaw would be very much be in my favor.

"Unlock: Asmodeus," I held out Asmo's pad lock in front of Ophiuchus' rushing assault. My devil, the sin of lust, emerged from the gate between Earthland and the Devil Spirit World. As trained to do so, Asmo paralyzed my opponent without letting another second to go by. He is a bit over-powered, in my opinion, because of the Paralyze Magic he uses is on an extremely wide scale. Even if he was only focusing on Ophiuchus, everyone in the surrounding area could feel stiffness in their bodies.

"Wh-What is this?" Yukino's eyes were full of shock.

"What a cute one, Claire-chan...," Asmo's gaze drifted off to Yukino. It was always annoying of him to always get distracted in battle. I scolded him about his absent-mindedness and his tendency to flirt with girl, but he tuned me out.

"...," a visible anger mark was shown behind my neck. "Unlock."

Click, and he was gone. Asmo was all to use to my habit of rudely locking back my devils. When I was younger, he would usually get annoyed at me whenever I forcibly removed him. Nowadays, he just sighs and smiles. He didn't question the 7-years of absence. Its true that I rarely summon anybody, but I unlock them frequently enough for them to know that I am fine. I guess that if I am out of commission like under the effects of Fairy Sphere, then my devils are under than influence too.

The stun was slowly being dispelled, but it gave me enough time to aim for my opponent: Yukino. I ran straight towards her to give her the final blow. At the last moment, the Paralyze Magic wore off enough for the Celestial Spirit Mage to move out of the way of my oncoming punch. It was so close that Yukino was still unable to move much while collapsed on the ground. Her spirits were removed from the now, rugged battlefield. I lend her a hand to stand up and she looked visibly upset.

"I have stained the Sabertooth name..."

"Eh?" her sudden comment pulled me back a little. "That's an exaggeration, don't you think?"

I tried to console her, but it didn't seem to phase her. Sting slowly walked up to the two of us with Lector flying right next to him. He didn't look too happy, but I was prepared to make sure that things didn't turn ugly between him and Yukino. I understand that Sabertooth has a certain pride to them that they can't seem to tolerate anything but to make the world weak. He just stared at the both of us for a few minutes with a stare that could make shatter glass. Yukino, just by looking at her, is someone that would be fragile. Considering that she specializes in a Summoning Magic, she must've not focus too much on herself.

"Seriously? Is that all you got? You might as well be part of some other guild's trash," Sting directly scolded her without giving any sympathy. Sure, I can be harsh too, but that is only if I'm close to a person... or if I hate them. I was about to but in my Sting kept on going. "Sabertooth is not weak. We are the number 1 most powerful guild in Fiore and we will keep that title so long as the guild stands. There is no way that we would ever let some piece of trash cause change the guild's course in strength."

The wickedness of how he spoke was chilling. My body grew tense and this situation was making me feel uncomfortable... but at the same time... my temper grew as much as Sting's.

"If you can't even defeat an opposing member of a competing guild, then perhaps we should find somebody else to take place of the fair lady," he continued. "You are a weakling. Like Master says... to make skies roar... to make the Earth boil... to make the seas silent... THAT is Sabertooth."

"... yes," Yukino said in almost a whisper. She kept her head down in shame, hoping not to be forced to look at Sting in the eye. If that were to happen, then she would break down and shed tears of embarrassment. Crying... is a sign of weakness to most people. For her to ever show a backdoor to defeat to Sabertooth, would crush her dreams. "Please, I will be stronger. There is still time-"

"Time? TIME?" Sting roared. "What will a mere three months do to you! That amount of time will be nothing! It will not make you any stronger and it will just be holding the team back!"

Yukino was shaking tremendously. She lowered her body and went into a bow that begged for mercy and forgiveness. She was still shaking. I admire her will and ability to abstain from crying, but this isn't the right reason to do such a thing to yourself. Lector was no better. He was boldly witnessing this and not even trying trying to retort anything. With a battle between Yukino and Lector, she was sure to be the victor. If Lector was anything like Pantherlily, then he would've revealed that by now or use such a form to retaliate from my roughness. That made me angry. I'll understand if exceeds like Lector and Fro are there to give moral support, then Yukino would be exception for that sort of position. She greatly admired Sabertooth and worked so hard to get accepted. But when the time finally came to determine her worth, her hopes were shattered into tiny pieces of deteriorating dreams. Not caring about your comrade... was much like the characteristic of a dark Guild.

My stream of consciousness was cut off when I notice that Sting lifted his arm up. His hand was balled into a fist and I could tell where this was going to. Yukino cooperatively stood up slowly on her feet. Her eyes closed and prepared for punishment. Like how I always manage situations like this, I arrogantly let my instincts take over.

Coming between the two, I held Sting's fist full of hate in my own hand. He struggled a little, trying to get me to release my grasp. But I still held on, only to let go if this son of a bitch would calm down. We shared gazes. Unlike those other times where I would give him my death glare, the feelings would always be one-sides. At a time where both me and Sting are serious to the point of death, it felt different. We were so close to each other, just barely to the point where our bodies didn't touch. My heart was beating fast, but I felt nothing from his side. I hate that about how we communication... something is always one-sided... and I always make it so I was on the bad end. I absolutely can't stand him right now.

"Stay out of this...," his voice calmed down a bit, but he was still angry. By the looks of it, I was the one making his temper boil. "You aren't even a part of Sabertooth!"

"So what if I'm not? I'm not here to associate with this guild! But when I see someone that is being broken down by someone like you, I'll do what it takes to protect them!"

"Protect? What is the point of protecting trash?"

"She is not trash!"

"She is weak and fragile.. Sabertooth would be looked down upon if we allow her to-"

"Weak? Fragile? I bet my life that you were weak and fragile at some point of your life! The moment you are born and a little beyond that... infants, toddlers, children... small, tiny, and easily shattered."

"Shut up, what do you know about Sabertooth?"

"What do you know about strength? What do you know about pride? Reputation?"

"This is the way of the most powerful guild," Lector butted in.

"What the hell do you even know too?" I raised my voice considerably louder. "Between you and me, we both know who would come out of a fight."

I managed to shut him up with that notion.

"Don't you dare speak to him that way," Sting defended.

"I'll speak the way I want...," I said coldly. "What makes Lector so different from Yukino? Why does he get more protection? A guild is bound one another and will always protect their friends."

"Sounds like a pretty weak guild then."

"We will crush you."

"Prove it."

"Just. You. Wait."

"If you care so much about Yukino.. then why don't help her prove that three months is enough time to get her into shape for the games? Don't you like to make me eat my own words?"

"Gladly," I accepted his challenge only to realize after that I'll be stuck in this town for the rest of the time.

"Let's see who's right then."

"I won't lose to the likes of you."

Sting backed off a little and smirked with one eyebrow up. He grabbed me by the wrist and dragged me back toward the town. I struggled out of his grasp, but he won't let me go at all. Yukino thanked me before being sent back to her home. Sting went back to having petty bickering with me, but the awkward tension was still between us. Not before long, we were entering the head quarters of Sabertooth. The building was extremely large and entering in it was no different. Like the living quarters of Sabertooth, the inside was luxurious and very professional. Fairy Tail was always laid back and carefree. The atmosphere in this kind of guild was slightly off. Many looks were given and the sound of whistles pierced my ears. Sabertooth, the guild associated with the letter A: arrogance, annoyance, abnormality, awkwardness, antagonistic... asses. Maybe adultery in Sting's case.

"Master...," Sting bowed and greeted a muscular, old man. He like quite intimidating and didn't seem to like the presence of an outsider within in his guild. I didn't really like the way this was turning out. He turned his head to look at me. "This is Gemma, our Master of Sabertooth."

"Master...," I repeated quietly seeing the highest authority figure of the ass guild.

"What is it Sting...," he said it like more than a command rather than a question. Even his voice was intimidating that little droplets of sweat glided down beside my eye. I was getting more frightened rather than be angered at Sting. "How is the Aguria girl?"

"Oh that," Sting stood up straight to speak with his Master. But his grip on my wrist was still tight. He wouldn't allow me to embarrass him in any way. "I didn't want to dirty my hands. I let this girl spar with her."

"This girl?" it pushed my buttons when somebody doesn't like to acknowledge that they know me. I slightly raised my voice, causing most of the Sabertooth members to look into our direction. The Master didn't seem to be phased. He wasn't looking at me, but I could tell that he was thinking of me. He didn't say much for the next few moments.

Sting sighed as if he was sorry for bringing me here.

"What business do you have here, brat?" the Master turned on me. I flinched a little, but I couldn't show any sign of fear or weakness... or kindness.

"It's Clarion," I emphasized. Who likes to be called this girl, this brat, this person?

"Well, Clarion...," he rose from his throne-like seat. "If you would like to join-"

"Wha?" I interrupted him midway. "Join this guild?"

"Perhaps I made an assumption," he lowered back into a sitting position.

"I'm already in a guild and I'll never leave it."

"Tell me, how long have you been in that so-called guild?"

"... does that matter?" I looked away.

"People change, do they not?" his gaze was piercing and I had to give him eye contact to look confident. No way would I let Sting bring me to a place where I would show a weaker side. My fists were now clenched to the extreme and my teeth gritted.

"So what if I've only been in the guild for a few days? Things happen. I was wrongfully put in the wrong guild for most of my life. I am a descendant of the first Master and it is my honor to be in her guild. I'll protect the guild and everyone in it. The atmosphere is full of life, full of happiness and warmth. In here, it feels like a dictatorship. You either feel arrogance or fear. This won't be able to compete with my guild."

The entire guild was in utter silence. The sounds of small talk between members were now gone. The stage was us, and the leading role was me. Like an actor should do, you act in character.

"What is this guild you are in?"

"That doesn't matter."

"But do you know why your guild isn't the most powerful guild in Fiore?"

"I do know why," I said without hesitation. "Circumstances happened, but we are ready to climb back up."

"Alright, enough," Sting pulled my wrist. "Master, I ask you permission to show her the way of the strongest guild. How we run things around here. How we manage to be the most powerful. How we deserve the title. How we plan to always keep that position so long as Sabertooth will stand."

"You have my permission," he quietly said and then proceeded to drink the wine that he already had in his hands.

"You don't have mine-"

"I don't need your permission."

"Well, I don't give a rat's ass how Sabertooth works around here. You have your guild and I have mines."

He ignored me.

"Recently, we had a member of Sabertooth fail a job she accepted."

"So?"

"So... we will show you how we handle when there is failure and weakness among this guild," Sting smirked a little bit and pulled me over to the side. Eerie footsteps were being heard. I looked over to see it was a normal member of Sabertooth walking towards Gemma. I looked over at Sting with a concern look on my face. He seems moved back by my sudden expression, but I ignored his reaction.

"You're not going to beat her up are you...," I asked seriously but in a quiet tone so that no one could hear us that well.

"Do you really think we're a guild that's like that?" Sting responded in a whisper.

"Well...," I'm not going to lie... they do look like a guild that would beat up their own members.

"Well, if we were... we wouldn't be a legal guild," he said. "The Magic Council will never approve a guild that conducts physical abuse within their boundaries."

"I guess...," I rolled my eyes over to the woman. She was quite tall with long flowing pale, blonde hair. If you look close enough, she could be an older version of Mavis-dono. Her face looked much more mature within bright, blue eyes. The waviness of the hair paralleled Mavis-dono's hair. She looked promising if I were to ever fight her. She had a few cuts and bruises along with a cast on her arm. The job she has taken must have been a serious one if it caused her to get so beat up like that. "What are you going to do then? What makes it so serious that I have to watch?"

"This is just to make you shut up about us."

"What do I say?"

"You're obviously always critical of us."

"I apologize if it seems like that, but I honestly don't really care. You guys are just harsh in my opinion... it's not like you have to take it to heart. Aren't people entitled to have their own thoughts?"

"Just watch it okay?"

"Fine," I scoffed at him. I watched the scene behind a few Sabertooth members with an unamused face. "Can you at least let go of my wrist?"

"No," he said without looking at me.

"Why not?"

"Can't open up the possibility of you leaving my side."

I couldn't make out whether or not he meant that. My heart started beating a little bit harder. I could feel my cheeks feel a little bit warmer, but I quickly snapped out of it. There is no way that I could be flattered by such a comment. He just thinks that I would just leaving the Sabertooth building is all... and nothing more. The grip he had on my wrist loosened up a bit, and I could have just forced him to let go and stand there to prove him that I wouldn't leave. But I like the feeling a little bit... of him holding onto me... like that time where he was the first person to be there when I escaped that little, tight prison cell.

...

"What?" Sting looked at me.

I snapped my wrist out of his grasp. I didn't look at him, and I kept my eyes under the shadows of the bangs that fell over my forehead. I didn't say another word to him. Sting didn't try to grab my wrist again and sighed. It sort of made me uneasy seeing somebody that could look like my mother. Then again, I can't even picture my mother's face anymore.

Gemma yelled out her name and proceeded to openly state any flaws that he believes that she has. His voice was raised to the point where it was obvious that it was meant for every Sabertooth member to hear. One after another, he listed out everything that he dislikes about her. He had full confidence in his opinions. He said every word as if it were facts.

She pleaded for forgiveness. It was heart breaking seeing someone beg like that. Personally, I would never ask for mercy, for pity, for sympathy.

Gemma seemed to appealed to her, but decided to give her some sort of punishment. It disgusted me how she was being so submissive.

"Is that what you wanted me to see...? A punishment?"

Sting nodded.

"... can't you just tell me what happens?" I asked him, honestly not wanting to witness what could happen.

"Are you going to leave my side?"

I didn't say another word. If I left, he would never let it go. I forced him to free my wrist for the sole reason that I won't leave as he would think. My damn big ass mouth... I was afraid what will happen. If it was something that is going to scar me, then I didn't want to see it. As much as this guild annoys me with their over-the-top beliefs, I honestly didn't want to see anything that would cause me to hate Sabertooth. A guild is a guild and I want to experience how it feels to have sincere guild mates.

"What do you fear the most?" Gemma asked. The woman hesitated for a moment. Gemma grew more angry and demanded an answer to his request. Almost to the brink of tears, she finally gave in.

"I-I am... af-afraid of.. death," she admitted. She was visibly shaken and scared to the point where sweat kept dripping down.

That was my breaking point. No matter what it is, I couldn't bear to watch what they had in store for her. Even if torture is illegal within a guild, humiliation was something else. I don't even want to visualize how they would ever humiliate her with the fear of death. Illusion Magic perhaps, but I can't stand to see someone be forced to face their fears. All I could do was picture myself in her position. Being hit with something that you never want to face in your life, it is torture to me. Cupping my ears and shutting my eyes, I stormed out the Sabertooth building. I purposely let my footsteps stomp the floor to prevent myself from hearing Sting's footsteps come after me.

"Sting...?" I thought as I looked back. He wasn't there at all. It made me frown a little bit, but I suppose that I couldn't expect him to go after me or anything. I was a little familiar with the area and decided to go back to that training spot. I wasted too much time and I have to train harder. Sparring won't do much for me and I need to get into more advanced stages of my Lock Magic.

"Hey, there you are."

... Oh now he shows up, stupid Sting.

"... hey," I greeted him without looking at his face.

"You did leave my side," he sounded serious, but a little concerned at the same time.

"I don't want to see it, I don't."

"But-"

"No matter what it is.. it's going to cloud my thoughts. It'll make me think differently about Sabertooth... and make me think different about you... and Yukino... and maybe Rogue... and... stuff," the words were not coming out of my mouth the way I want it to. "I might be lying to myself... but if you guys have a dirty little secret, then keep it to yourself."

"I can't tell if you're being weak or just... if I am not use to being around someone like you."

"Why would I be weak?"

"You just make it sound like that you can't handle the truth."

"Well, you make it sound like everything is just a game. You don't seem like you never want to lose. Why are you investing your time into showing me around your guild? You purposely act harsh in front of me. Why is that?"

"A game... huh," his attention drifted off. He wasn't looking at me anymore as his gaze wandered past me. He looked lost in his own mind. It took me a couple of tries to snap him back out of his train of thoughts. When he did, he still looked serious and almost eerie. "This isn't a game get some fun out of you anymore..."

I took a step back, intimidated by his sudden comment. He crept closer to me. Our faces were close again, except this time, he looked as if he was intending to do something horrible. His face was so serious that I was afraid to do anything rash to him. I could feel my insides tremble. I couldn't move and I was terrified what was going to happen next. He just kept staring at me and I was getting restless to wait for the rest of his comment.

"It will be more intoxicating to break that protective barrier you put up around you..."

I took a step back.

"What... are you talking about?"

"You know exactly...," he stepped forward.

I wanted to deny it, I really did. Ever since Zeref had disappeared, I felt like I had to protect myself to the fullest. I couldn't let Zeref's care go to waste with me leaving this world. Blocking the world like how it blocks Zeref... is that all I have been doing? I never wanted to get hurt, at least emotionally. I suppose losing that one person that is important to me would break me down mentally... and to prevent it happening again, I would have to build walls around me... I am still being suffocated. I even reserve myself from my devils, the closest things I have to Zeref... but also his necklace.

But I have Fairy Tail now... I have Mavis-dono now. I have something new to protect and stay alive for. I have more reasons to get stronger. I don't need barriers. I don't need someone like Sting to try and break something down that doesn't even exist. I need to live up to my word. I'll never lose to the likes of Sabertooth. Keep my enemies closer, and I'll be closer to being stronger.

"What do you know about me?" I snapped back at him. The random change in character caused him to get startled a bit. But he was quite use to things like that and went back to his serious demeanor.

"I know enough that you are someone that is weak and in a guild that can never compare to Sabertooth."

"Go fuck yourself," I stormed off, but not before giving him another punch to his face. It was hilarious. I could tell that he was growling with anger behind me, but whatever with him.


Nothing was bright about the town except for the dim lights that were lit during the darkest time of the day. It wasn't that late at all, but there wasn't a single soul walking the streets... at least where I was at anyways. I still felt my body being all tense and it wasn't a great feeling. I constantly had to sigh to help let out the adrenaline that I felt in me. My heart was beating slowly, but harder than usual.

I suddenly felt dizzy and light headed. Maybe it was because of the heated encounter with Sting... or maybe not. My vision was getting blurred and I could feel my muscles stop functioning. I felt heavy and my legs gave out. The last thing I remember before completely blacking out was dropping to my knees and the feeling of being lifted away.

I was probably coming down with something. I expected myself to wake up in a bed or something. It was probably Sting again. He usually tends to follow me around and probably caught me not being myself. Then again, we did have that argument and I did hurt him. Though, when has he not been there so far? Even if he is stupid and a jerk, I would count on him on some situations... even if I didn't want to. He can be a good person... ugh, I should stop changing my mind about him.

My consciousness came back, but I still couldn't see anything. My vision was still out of commission, but at least I was aware now. I heard some footsteps and some conversation. My heart skipped a beat when I noticed that none of those voices was Sting... or anyone else I knew. I tried to move around, but I was bound to something.

"Now," I heard a voice. Sounded somewhat high pitched, but with a sinister tone behind it.

I heard an electrifying sound. My eyes widened, but I still couldn't see shit. My eye sight was still pitch black. As I heard the sound come closer, I managed to free myself from something that felt like ropes. But it hit me.

A surge of pain ran across my body... my vision became clear. At least I could see now... but I couldn't move as this thunder thing was attacking every inch of my flesh. It felt like my insides were being burned and I felt weaker and weaker. When the lightning thing was done, I fell to the floor, but I could barely move. I tried reaching for my locks, but they were gone. I looked up to see one of the guys twirl the ring around his finger. I attempted to stand on my feet, but another guy just stomped on me to keep me in place.

"Who are you guys?" is what my eyes were showing.

There were about five guys. None of them seem to be physically strong or anything. They all had the same facial expression that said that they will be doing something bad to me. To make up for their lack of strength, they were using dirty tricks. Striking me when I'm distracted, electrocuting me for paralysis, and taking away any possible threat against them. I notice a few Sabertooth marks on them. It angered me to the extent of giving it my all. I don't care if its going to be bad for my body, I've had enough of Sabertooth's harassment.

Lifting myself up, to the surprise of the guys, I destroyed almost everything inside that small wooden room. Thankfully, it wasn't small enough for me to feel any suffocation or choking within it. It was difficult for me to hit one of guys since my body is still groggy. I didn't realize that one of the guys was right behind me. He grabbed me from behind which I easily managed to kick him off. But then, three or two more guys came to grab me instead. I struggled a lot, but I was getting more tired.

The guy I kicked earlier approached me. He had a sinister looking face, almost as if he was tainted with insanity. I closed my eyes and braced myself. He grasped my neck in a choke hold, but didn't put any forced into it.

I felt my Magic literally be drained away. It was a scary feeling. If this kept going, I will have no strength left in me anymore. Pulling together the rest of my energy onto my leg, I kicked the guy between his legs. It was effective enough to have the grip on me loosen. However, one of the guys threw a punch at me without warning. I managed to cross my arms and block the impact, however, the forced made me fall over. Continuously, pain ran across my stomach and my back. I was getting kicked and stepped on with harsh movements. That bastard earlier purposely had my Magic sucked out to prevent me from using any form of it. I coughed out multiple times and bruises were being more prominent as time went on.

"Why...," is all that could come out of my mouth.

"Why?" one of the guys grabbed me by the neck and forced me up. He may seem weak, but he is strong enough to lift me off the ground with just one grasp. "We don't like you..."

"What did I even do?" the pain caused me to wince and talking made it even worse, but I had to say something.

"Ever since you came to this town, you've caused nothing but trouble," another guy said behind me.

"No one is allowed to associate with Sabertooth, especially someone like you."

"Not even a member of Sabertooth and yet you think you can do all that big talk? You are just a nobody."

"What do you even know..." I said under my breath as I slowly raised my head. There was a shocked expression of the assumed ring leader of the group.

"W-Why are yo-your eyes.. red? Weren't they just black?"

I completely lost myself. I didn't know why, but I felt a new brand of Magic had taken over my body. I felt strong and it was exhilarating. Using hand-to-hand combat, I fended off the Sabertooth members. It felt like Magic about to be released from my body. A white wave suddenly appeared from inside of me and swirled around the little cabin-like room. The wood was rapidly decaying much to their surprise and mines. As much as I was curious why I just did that, I couldn't let my guard down. The shocked members, now fearful, tried to run. I didn't allow it. I noticed that I was faster, stronger, and more durable than before. But, after just a few minutes, that sensation went away and I was back to being weak. The guys I pummeled were unconscious and those that were awake were too scared to even move. At least one of them ran off, and probably the one that had my locks. Fuck. Figures, the best thing I could now was to leave this shit hole. I left the only door opening using the nearly broken walls for supported. I had to be careful when putting my weight on it because it could give in.

When I went outside, it was the middle of the night. The little cabin place was not too far from the Sabertooth headquarters. In fact, it was literally behind a building near the edge of town. I felt extremely horrible, but I had to go somewhere. I notice that this place was pretty much on the outskirts of town. I limped over to that one training area to rest a bit before going anywhere else. I didn't dare go to Sting or Sabertooth for that matter... I'm already ticked at how they let guild members do these things to other people. Its disgusting... but also scarring.

I thought I've seen the worst in a guild... but experiencing this... just makes me wonder. How much of the world have I really been missing? Is this the reality that I've been stripped of?

I saw two little figures in the distance. Recognizing them, I tried to avoid it.. but I had no choice. I was in trouble and I still did not have my devils. I thought that my lack of Magic would summon at least Lucifer, but I suppose that they would only show up near wear their locks where. Well, this is not good.

"Lector...?" I recognized the red, tuxedo cat exceed with his companion, Rogue's exceed, Fro.

"Clarion-kun?" he calls me that to spite me, but I grew use to it. "What are you doing here?"

It kind of ticked me off how he's not question how messed up I look. I suppose the darkness of the night had to do with it, but the moonlight was still bright enough that he would see me... I don't know... limping and bleeding?

"You don't even notice that I looked like shit right now?"

"You look normal to me," he mocked as I visibly grew an anger mark.

"Fro thinks so too!"

"You don't have to agree!" the raise in my voice was taking a toll on my health, but my temper didn't allow myself to think straight. I grabbed Lector by grasping hold on each side of his unbuttoned vest. "Because of your dumb ass guild, I got assaulted!"

"Sabertooth? Assault? Don't make me laugh!" he didn't seem intimidated by me anymore. He sprouted out angelic wings, Aera, and proceeded to headbutt me. He landed an attack right on my cheek, causing me to fall back a little. The impact caused my head to spin around a moment before restoring itself to normal. Fro had also used his own Aera to try and hold back an unusually, aggressive Lector. "Why do you think that you can just insult Sabertooth like that? Who do you think you are?"

"I think... I'm a person entitled to my own opinions!"

I attempted to retaliate with a weak punch, but Fro used all his strength to fly Lector out of the way. I was going to fall over, so I grabbed onto Lector to take him down with me. I was tripping all over the place, desperate trying not to fall completely. However, there was a rocky ledge on the side of the field. Can anything else get worse?

Submitting to the gravity, I fell over and started rolling down the side. Lector and Fro came along with me since I didn't let go of Lector and Fro didn't let go of him. We started getting scrapes and cuts from the rocks and soon enough, the loosening of the rocks causing more of them to fall. The natural mosaics started coming apart and starting a rock avalanche. I saw a little opening to a cave down below, just before the end of the line. It was the only way to prevent ourselves getting crushed. It caused more pain, but I was able to wiggle a bit to move our falling path toward the cave. I held the two exceeds tightly in my arms and I braced for the impact. I successfully managed to squeeze into the cave, still holding onto Lector and Fro. The falling rocks fell over the opening and block the entrance completely.


"Sting... what is that?" Rogue came into the guild building not to long ago. Instantly noticing the bruise left off that Sting desperately tried to cover from his partner. He claimed it was nothing. "Was it... Clarion? ... again?"

"Shut it, Rogue...," Sting stubbornly said with a child-like expression across his face. He looked as if he was just a kid and was put in a time out. "Where's Lector and Fro?

"They went up ahead. They are to wait for us at the border of the town until we are finished with the preparations. The job is still being processed," he said and paused for a moment. "You two... have an interesting relationship."

"Her? I have no idea what you're talking about."

"One moment you two seem to like each other... and the next, you are both prepared to tear each other apart."

Sting shrugged off Rogue's comment and the two headed over to their destination. Their Master had ordered them to investigate a neighboring town due to recent reports that a group of guys are harassing multiple groups of people. There have been witnesses that claim that the men were of the Sabertooth guild. Gemma, of course, denies this. So, Sting and Rogue need to catch the guys and dismiss the claims.

"That's strange, they're not here," Sting looked in every direction of the field with no prevail. "Do you think they just went on?"

"It would appears so, but that seems out of character."

"Bleh, let's just go already. They were probably thinking that the faster we settle this, the faster we can get back home," Sting started to walk in a carefree manner. Rogue sighed at his partner's relaxed state.


Even if my eyes were shut closed, I knew it was dark, so dark. It was also cold... very cold. My arms were shaking uncontrollably. My teeth clenched and my tight squeeze on the two exceeds grew nondetachable. I was afraid to let go of them, but I also wanted to protect them too. It was a close off area. To be a little more optimistic, I don't feel as bad in a closed off area. If this cave was smaller, then I would probably go insane. It helps me when I remind myself that this sort of thing is like a room. I always had my door closed in my room... but this was obviously different. It makes me extremely uncomfortable when there isn't any possibility of communicating with the outside world. Like always, I feel trapped.

"C-Clarion-kun-" Lector thought I was asleep and tried getting my attention.

"I-I won't let go!" I impulsively said out loud. "N-No matter what, I-I'll get you guys o-outta here!"

"Fro thinks so too...," the little dressed frog said quietly. But the small, timid comment made me feel better. I slowly opened my eyes to see the heads of Lector and Fro turned back to look at me. They were both a little roughed up, but they were fine. At least, they looked better than me. The blood from my head, arms, and around my mouth had now dried up. The scratches and cuts were now scabbed over. And my bruises were still visible around my arms and legs.

Still holding them in my arms, I got up on my feet. My legs were struggling a lot and my body was still so sore. I went closer to the rocky wall to examine. Lector touched the barrier.

"It feels solid shut...," his head lowered at the disappointment. "I don't think we can call for help... even if we scream."

My head suddenly felt light-headed. My body suddenly felt like it was giving out. My knees were shaking and fell down to my legs, leaning against the side of the cave. My breathing became short and I found myself inhaling and exhaling repetitively. Even if I told the two that I wouldn't let go of them, my arms were next to give out. They didn't seem to mind, but it was nice seeing their concern over my deteriorating health.

"What's wrong, Clarion-kun?" Fro was the first to say.

They let me down to lay on my back. My head was starting to burn and trickles of sweat fell down. Why am I getting sick now? NOW? I never get sick, at least up to my knowledge. I remember Hades commented on my immune system before. He would say that my little piece of Zeref would always protect me, in sickness and in health or something. Which would make it odd seeing how I always wear the silver, circle-shaped necklace that Zeref gave to me.

I held up my hand to my chest and I felt nothing, something missing. I felt like my chest was going to cave in. My chest felt naked. I couldn't find it. Not even the string thing to it was secured. Fuck. Fuck. Fuck. It probably fell off when I went into that rampage back at that wooden cabin thing. I was starting to breath faster and faster. Talking a lot would cause me to lose my breath. I felt like I was in hell.

"Don't worry, Clarion-kun," that was probably the nicest thing Lector has ever said to me. "When Sting-kun and Rogue-kun realize that we're missing, they'll come find us!"

"That's great...," I weakly said along with a faint smile.

"Do you think they're there?" Fro asked Lector.

"Probably, we were suppose to go last night..."

"Wait... where?"

" The next town over," Lector notified. "We were suppose to dismiss a claim that members of Sabertooth were harassing some people over there. Of course, our members would never do that!"

"Fro thinks so too!"

"Never.. huh?" I looked down on my bodily injuries. "Get to know your guild mates before you make accusations..."

"Whatever," and we went back to the distance between us. It was nice while it lasted.

With that leaving off, I drifted to sleep.


Everything was dying around me. I don't understand why. A white wave of Magic was turning black around me. The trees were dying, the grass was decaying, everything in the air was the scent of death. I was on my knees, just witnessing everything that was going on.

"Zeref...," I said out loud.

"Clarion...," he responded, but no where to be seen. The swirling black Magic wave continue to surround me.

"What is all this?" I asked him.

"You will soon know the truth," his voice started to fade away. "With time, everything will start to come together."

Time. I always hated being patient. I was doing nothing but be patient these years. But then I soon questioned what is Zeref doing now. 7 years had gone by and who knows where he went. The feeling of his existence never left me. So he is somewhere on Earthland right now... doing something. But like how Zeref would tell me... I will know in time.


"WHAT? ARE YOU KIDDING ME?"

"This is..."

"These are pictures of the members of Sabertooth that victims claim to have harassed them."

Sting and Rogue met up with a representative of the town. He revealed photographs of the perpetrators of the recent incidents. The images were legitimate with the Sabertooth crest shown explicitly. Sting threw the pictures aside the table. He wasn't buying it, however, he also didn't want to believe it. Rogue had a similar belief but still kept his cool and calm facade. A good Samaritan and witness took the pictures and turned them in to the authorities. Others had witnessed the Sabertooth members return to their respective guild town, much to the shock of Sting and Rogue.

"Please settle this case given with an appropriate punishment," the man said closing his eyes and cupping his hands together in a mature manner. "Otherwise, I'll be forced to report this to the Magic Council. You don't want the number one guild in Fiore to disband, do you?"

"Sabertooth members don't do this... do they?" Sting, finally losing doubt, questioned his fellow partner. He couldn't bear to deal with the news that his own guild would stupidly threaten the reputation. So much was at stake and Sting knew very well that no member would risk that chance.

"I would not know. Even if we may be from the same guild, we are not close with one another. We go by strength in our guild, not by morals or values."

Sting had to admit it was true, but couldn't bear to show it. Leaving town, they realized that they still could not find their respective exceed partners.

"What if...," Rogue was about to bring up the worst. Sting shushed him before he could finish, however.


Finally entering their town, they notice the strange absence in the streets. Usually, many people would be walking around considering that it was noon. After walking around a little, they notice a few girls run towards the other side of town. Curious, they followed that direction to find a big crowed surrounding a wrecked, wooden shack. A few authorities, including some minor Sabertooth members, were trying to control the crowd. One member had recognized the duo.

"Sting-sama, Rogue-sama!" he called over.

"What's goin' on here?" Sting asked.

"Some guys from the guild were found inside and beaten up really badly...," he looked down a little. "They were sent to get medical attention... but right now, we're trying to find the person responsible."

"Let's go, Sting," Rogue walked by the two and entered the scene that was nearly going to collapse any moment. It was just him and Sting looking around the area. As Sting was walking around and kicking through the rubble, he heard a little cling and felt his foot move aside a small pebble. "What did you find?"

"A... necklace?" Sting held up the necklace, surprisingly still perfectly intact, and examined it. He seen it before. "It's... hers."

"Clarion?" Rogue turned around and Sting nodded. Standing up and putting the adornment into his pocket, he had a serious look on his face.

"She's not the type to just attack people without reason... and I don't see why she would ever come to this side of town. These guys must've been the attackers and she probably had to do all of this just to escape. The blood must be hers...," he felt saddened for a moment, but quickly went back to a determined look. He ran out of the debris and Rogue following behind him.

He was heading for his Master, Gemma, to report the members. If Sabertooth plays it right, their reputation still be solid strong if they make a proper punishment which was likely to be excommunication. Midway through their running montage, a figure stopped them in their path.

Pale skin. Somewhat, angelic appearance. Blue Pegasus member? Nah...

"May we help you?" Rogue was first the speak. Sting was a little more agitated and annoyed by the obstacle. "We are in a hurry."

"Where... is Clarion-chan...," his voice was able to send chills down the Sabertooth member's spine. Twirling between his fingers were miniature padlocks. Sting, recognizing this, became more hostile. Impulsively, he grabbed the stranger's wrist that had the ring of locks. The shared stares of death.

"Where did you get that?" Sting asked with the voice intent to cause bodily harm.

"A bastard had it in his possessions...," he stopped twirling the ring and held it tightly in his hand. "In the case of this, I would be attracted to the necklace of Clarion-chan... so why do you have it in your possession..."

"I'm holding it for her... I'm going to find her."

"I suppose we have the same intentions then...," he backed off a little. "Help me find my Clarion-chan, and I won't cause any destruction."

"Who are you anyways...," Rogue intervened.

"YOUR CLARION?" Sting blurted out, but his behavior was ignored.

The man, slightly taller than Sting, bowed in an elegant fashion. Then, lifted his head to speak.

"Lucifer, devil of the sin of pride, and I serve Clarion-chan."


(" o w o ) oh my... but... THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR READING, I REALLY HOPE THAT YOU ENJOYED! GAHAHFKALJFLASFA I WISH FAIRY TAIL WOULD UPDATE MORE OFTEN BLARGHIAHSHDFLA;SJDFL! DON'T FORGET TO FAVORITE/ALERT/REVIEW IF YOU DIDN'T ALREADY! IT REALLY MAKES MY DAY AND.. I'll stop talking in all caps now... hope you guys have a nice rest of your day, hugs and loves!