OSPREY….SWOOOSH

UO: (Looks outside) And that's why MLS doesn't play in the winter like most of the major leagues.

Natsu: Whoa that's a lot of snow!

Stephen: Geez this is as bad those storms back in 2010.

UO: Right (Looks around) Uh where's Grey?

Natsu: Stripper is enjoying the weather. A little too much.

UO: (Watches outside and sees Grey in his underwear like it was a sunny day.) Damn it. Wait (Sees Erza in the buff) Who dared Erza to do that?

Natsu: It was Lucy! Erza was being a terror in a game we were playing!

Lucy: Don't throw me under the bus!

Stephen: Uh…

UO: Someone do the disclaimer, Natsu toss Lucy out there

Lucy: Hell no! (Runs away with Natsu in pursuit)

Stephen: Um, Unitedosprey1991 doesn't own Fairy Tail or any teams mentioned, he only owns this plot and me.

(Lucy's shriek is heard as Natsu caught her. Moments later she was buried in snow) Let Me In!"

UO: Start the show

Normal text: Speaking or normal talking

Person's name followed by a colon: In-game announcer

"Quotes and Italics: Conversation over phones, T.V and computers.

'Apostrophe and Italics': Thoughts

Bold: Yelling

Underline: Location and Time in match

Chapter 7: Father Vs. Daughter: Acylpatha Town Vs Magnolia City

After the Oak Town Game September 30th about 9:30 PM

When we last left Magnolia City, they had destroyed Oak Town 7-1, including a six minute stretch in which they scored 4 goals. The home crowd was cheered for 90 straight minutes and even after the game, the team went into the stands and celebrated with the crowd.

Stephen was less enthusiastic to get into the crowds and want to slink off into the locker rooms. Natsu however was having none of that and dragged him over to the section of their biggest supporters. They were known as the Guild of Fairies, named for the merchant guilds that used to congregate where the team was founded.

"Come on! It's not often we get to celebrate with our fans like this!" Natsu persuaded.

"Natsu, you know I don't like crowds," The American growled.

"Well tough, your gonna meet our fans whether you like it or not!"

Stephen sighed and followed his roommate over. Some of the other players were already signing shirts and pictures. Mira was taking some pictures with the fanboys while Grey was signing his shirt and giving them to a young fan. Lucy despite being a newcomer was already winning over some of the fans, especially the guys in the crowd. Taking an extra pen from Natsu, he walked to the stands and two fans hand them pictures. One was the first team photo that had him in it and the other was of his profile picture from the team site. As he moved down the line, he saw a red headed girl holding out a picture. He widened his eyes when he realized it was his YouTube logo, a golden bird over a soccer ball and spear.

"Well what do you know, a fan before I became a soccer star? What's your name?"

"Lana," the girl told him. "I've been a fan of your channel for two years. When are you gonna stream again?"

Stephen chuckled. "Well if it works out, tomorrow I could do it, if not Wednesday, our next game is Sunday," he told her getting the fans attention. "That's right, to all the fans of my channel and of the team, I'll be streaming this week."

"What do you do?" A guy asked.

"Well this one's gonna be relatively laid back. I play a game, you guys watch and comment. I can actually talk to you in more…intimate setting. Who knows, I might get a couple of my teammates to say hello. Anyway, I hope you guys come see it, it will be fun."

This made some of them more intrigued at the prospect of watching him play. The concept of let's playing was starting to catch on across the world, but in Fiore it was almost unheard of. Stephen knew he could get his face out there to both Fiore and the fanbase of Magnolia City. This was a good first step.

Natsu patted his shoulder. "See now you can get people to watch your channel!"

Stephen conceded the point as he signed some more stuff. Some of the kids wanted to take a photo with him and he obliged even getting Lisanna it a couple. Off to the side, Lucy smiled at how easily Stephen was being embraced by the foreign fans. She figured out early on, he wasn't a social butterfly, especially compared to his roommate. She felt her sleeve being pulled and turned to see a six year old blonde girl holding up a picture of her.

"Hi there what's your name?"

"Rebecca," the girl squeaked.

"Rebecca huh? That's a cute name," Lucy told her. She scribbled on the picture. 'To Rebecca, keep your dreams alive. Lucy Heartfillia' Her neat scrawl impressed the six year old. Just then some of the fans got rowdy and to Lucy's confusion, the girl began to hold her ears and scream. Security was already on the way to break it up, while Mira and Lucy tried to calm the girl down.

Stephen was talking with a couple of fans about his channel when he heard the scream. Asking the fans to hold their thoughts, he scrambled over to the girl who was inconsolable by the mother and the girls. He immediately got down to the girl's level.

"Hey, its okay, the bad men are being taken care of," Stephen whispered. He turned to the mother. "Is there something she uses as a security blanket? Like a toy she's attached to?"

The mother gasped and reached into her bag and grabbed her bag. Reaching, she pulled out a pink plush lamb. "She's always calmed down hugging this. It's name is Aries like the constellation. I'm so sorry, she must be overwhelmed!" She cried.

Stephen said nothing and held it up to the girl. "What's wrong Rebecca?" He asked in a high voice. "Did the bad men scare you? It's okay. I'm here!" He said getting the lamb to dance.

The voice got through to the girl and she looked at her lamb dancing around. "Uh-huh! My ears hurt, it was so loud today!" She whined

"I'm sorry you feel that way. But the cheering was a good thing! Your team won right?"

The girl nodded and reached out to grab her friend. Stephen chuckled. "You going to be okay?" At another nod, the mother gently scooped her up. "There, there momma's here!" She turned to Stephen. "Bless you young man."

The American smiled. "No problem. Let me help you to the exit. Or at least to your party."

The two with girl in her mother's arms walked up the stairs away from the awestruck crowd. Once sufficiently out of ear shot, he turned to the mother. "Your girl is autistic isn't she?"

The mother was stunned. "H-how?" She stuttered.

"I know the signs, mam. She was tired, she wanted something to calm herself and she screamed because her senses were overloaded. How long ago was the diagnosis?"

Rebecca's mom sighed. "Not even 5 months ago. I was nervous bringing her here. She had a great time I didn't even think about it. Thank you so much!" She told him honestly.

Stephen smiled and turned around to head back to the field. "Anytime, for a kindred spirit. I hope Rebecca had a good time. Oh and here," He signed an extra shirt and handed it to her. "It's a signed jersey from me. I hope she can achieve her dreams." He waved back, not seeing Rebecca had woken up and waved to him.

On the field, he saw his teammates watching him come down the stairs along with the fans he was with. Feeling a little self-conscious, he asked. "What?"

Mira broke the spell. "That…was…SO CUTE!"

Stephen blushed. "Aww, it was nothing. She looked like she needed a way to calm down." He looked at Lucy. "You did nothing wrong, she had sensatory issues. I'm sure she'll enjoy watching you play."

The blonde who had been feeling down smiled. "Thanks. You handled that so well. It's like you've seen that before!"

Stephen chuckled and went over to the fans he was talking with. "You could say that."

After a half hour, the team was allowed to leave and go back to the dorms, a well-earned rest day the next day.

Next day about 4PM Fiore Time

The creature on screen roared as an explosion cut through its body. Upon crashing the ball attached to its tail, it spit up an orange ball and disappeared into the ground. The chat on the other screen was typing encouraging remarks and possible strategies to beating it.

The game in front of them was Metroid Prime 2: Echoes. Stephen was doing well in the game as far as he was concerned. He was already up to the first Temple Boss and knocked it down to about half health.

"Okay. That was two worms now comes the third. Thank god I already scanned this version," He mumbled, eyes dashing everywhere on screen. Seeing the ground churn up near him, he shifted his controller down to back Samus up as one of the humongous worms appeared above her. Stephen's fingers were fast to adjust his angle to chip of more of its armor. He immediately switched targets as another of the worms came up.

"Damn, this wasn't as tough as I remember. Trust me, this is one of the easier bosses. Next area has at least three I absolutely hate! Including the boss for the temple!" He shouted as he fired a Charge shot into the worm. The shots fired like a machine gun into the worms that jumped like large sand whales. Eventually, he stripped all three of their armor and moved onto the final phase of the fight.

"Running a little low on health." He sees a safe zone deactivate and his health decline rapidly. "Come on you bastard!" He shot the zone again before having to dodge out of the way of the beams. Turning back around, he fired off a couple of missiles which broke the head of one of them. Thinking quickly he activated Samus' morph ball and allowed it to suck her in. He then activated the bombs which finally did some damage to it. The worm screeched and flung its body up around.

"Alright that's one!" He grumbled. He glanced at the chat. "Use the Light Beam? I wonder how much that would cause?" He hit the c stick causing the gun to widen with light energy. He charged up the shot and fired. The shot did enough damage to blow the head off. "Wow! Never believed I could do that. This fight is a cinch. Thanks guys!" One more shot and the boss went down. A cut scene later and the body disintegrated.

"Nice. This suit upgrade will make exploring the Dark World a lot easier!" He said as Samus' armor turned darker after a few seconds of cut scenes. "The Dark suit protects against the corrosive effects of the Dark Aether. Lets me go longer outside the safe zones. Now it's time to get the temple's energy and find a save spot before I read off the new subscriptions and donations." He got into the temple's center and activated the Energy controller. The massive amount of energy flowed into the armor through the arm cannon like a straw. Once collected, sand began to blow across the landscape.

"Serves you right for trying to take this planet over." He said leaving the complex. A few moments later, he found a save station and activated it. He read of the subscriptions rapidly and then did some of the donations.

"Jamie489, Mr. Aran, and Dragonslayer 6 welcome to the Guild, we are all excited to have you aboard. And from Sans789, I'm glad you're able to stream all the way in Fiore, shame I can't watch you play soccer as Fiore's league isn't on her. But here's a little bit of bmoney for when the funds are tight. Thanks Sans, yeah, that sucks it's not on normal T.V. But what ya gonna do? Fiore is not like Germany or England or even Spain. Speaking of you guys saw the Barcelona game? Man that was awesome! Anyway, for those asking how long I'm gonna stream, probably till 8 or nine my time. I have one more break planned to get some dinner so hopefully it will be in a good spot for when that happens. For those asking, this will be a relatively laid back stream, I mean there is a lot of walking around so there will be time to talk as I figure stuff out from my memory. As for how complete, close to 100% of everything. So Items, monsters and Lore. I've already pointed out some of the onetime miss able objects."

He watched the chat as Natsu came in. "Hey Stephen."

He looked over his shoulder. "Hey Natsu. Come say hello to the stream. Guys, this is my roommate Natsu Dragneel. He's one of the forwards here at Magnolia City.

Natsu appeared over his shoulder and waved to the crowd. "Hey everyone!"

Stephen chuckled as the chat said hello. "I call my followers the Guild now cause of you guys. So I'm getting donations and subscriptions which will be an additional source of income in addition to the wage I get with you guys. Go figure today is payday. Speaking of Magnolia, people in the chat, be truthful how many are from Fiore? Put the team symbol if you're in Magnolia otherwise do the flag of Fiore. Actually let's extend that, let's see some country pride!"

Natsu watched as the chat exploded with different flags. Some he recognized, like Germany and the U.S. Others he didn't and it made his head hurt. "Damn, I didn't think you'd get this many people.

"I currently draw about 5 to 6K a stream, though 12K is the most I've had in a while. Some streamers and channels can pull 100K. With my little advertising spiel I actually am getting a bit more from Fiore. Though that could be because my normal viewers are on the East coast of the U.S and its school time. Which is why I upload the vods alongside the highlights of our last game. Anyway break time is over. Let's go put this energy back into its proper spot."

Before he made a move, his phone rang. "Huh?" He looked over and saw the number was from the U.S. "Wonder if Dad's calling me?" He picked it up and noticed the area code. "That's not Jersey, that's Chicago."

"Do you know anyone from Chicago?" Natsu asked.

Drew thought about it and something clicked in his mind. "Not directly, but there is one group that might call me." He answered the phone and put it on speaker asking the chat and Natsu to be quiet.

"Stephen Decatur, what's up?"

"Mr. Decatur, this is James Ingolsodt the U.S Soccer coach. How are you doing today in Magnolia?"

"I'm doing great sir! Just doing a little streaming in between games. You're actually live right now!"

"Oh well I can call another time!" The coach tried to hang up.

"No, its fine. What's up? I normally don't get calls from Chicago so this is probably huge."

"It is. As you know the U.S has already qualified for the World Cup."

Stephen smiled at that. The last 8 years have been a boon time for US Soccer. The last World Cup, held in Canada, they reached the Semifinals losing to eventual champion England. Stephen was too young to be considered for the National team that year. During this cycle, the U.S continued its dominance and qualified for the tournament beating Honduras and locking up at least the top 3 in their qualifying group. With two games left, they were considering calling up some players to get them some national experience before the draw.

"Yeah, congrats by the way. I wish I could have been there."

"Well, your going to get your wish. We've seen you do well in Magnolia and in the Champion's League. I'm here to offer you the opportunity to play for the national team. What do you say?"

Stephen smiled. "My answer is a resounding yes sir! Where do you want me to go to meet you?"

"Our last games are in Kingston Jamaica and then Metlife Stadium vs Mexico. You can come after your next game. Our qualifiers will be on Friday and Tuesday."

"So do I meet up in Kingston? Or meet up in the U.S?"

"Considering the time frame, I suggest Kingston. We're gonna fly there Monday. So if you can get there before Wedensday."

"I'll do my best, Thank you sir!" Stephen told him and James hung up. He looked at chat. "Well you heard him. This striker's gonna be part of the national team!"

Natsu patted him on the shoulder. "That's great man! Hope we get to face each other at the Cup!"

Stephen laughed. "That's if you can get to the Cup, you still have to play two more games!"

The American had a point. Fiore unlike the U.S had to go through arguably the toughest confederation, UEFA. They lucked out with their group, containing Poland, Israel, Malta, Latvia and Gibraltar. But the way the standings shook out, Israel, Fiore and Poland were still in contention for the automatic qualifier spot and the play-in spot. To make matters worse for the Poles and the Fioreians, they had to face each other on Tuesday as their last game. If Isreal won as expected against Malta, then the game against Poland would be for the group provided they beat Latvia which wasn't a sure thing as they'd be on the road. If it came down to that game, then Fiore had to win that game because a Tie would give the Poles the group on Goal difference depending on Israel's scoring.

"I know, but I won't have the rest of my team there. As far as I know, only Elfman, Mira and Erza have been called up with me. I have to deal with certain teammates like those forwards from United!"

Stephen nodded in understanding. When it came to rivalries in Fiore, few could match the ferocity of the Magnolia Derby. Stephen would get to play in his first at the end of the month but based on most of his team mates reactions, the feeling was similar to Natsu's.

"You need to suck it up. If you don't win out, you're not going to the World Cup. As much as I want to face you, that's over a year away and you can't lose what's right in front of ya!" He looked at the chat realizing he was still on screen. "That goes for everyone. Don't plan for stuff that you think will happen in a year. You got to own it, and make the future for yourself!"

The chat blew up as he finished. "Yeah, guess you're right. Anyway, I'm gonna go take a walk. Nice talking to ya guys!"

"Later Natsu!" Stephen replied high fiving him. Turning back to the screen. "Natsu is probably the one guy that could fire up any team. Glad to have him as a mate." He looked at a question. "Where's he going? Uh, probably trying to find our midfielder Lucy. There is a bet going on within our team when those two get together. I put after the Magnolia United game at the end of the month. Speaking of, I'm trying to see if I can get some of the games to be live streamed on my channel. Makarov, our owner, said I could but I need someone to be the commentator. That's later, let's get back making sure Aether has a future!"

Stephen got back into the game and for the next several hours he talked and struggled with the game. Overall, he felt it was productive and promised to try to get further in the next stream.

With Natsu

After Natsu left the room, he wondered the dorms looking bored out of his mind. Figuring that there was nothing better to do, he went to see if Lucy was available. Approaching the door, he knocked on it, learning from the last time he barged in.

"Lucy? You there?" He asked. Trying the handle, he found it was unlocked and he opened it. He hadn't been fully inside the apartment because he hadn't felt the need to come to Levy's room before.

"Bark!" Natsu turned to see Plue bounding up to him. "Hey boy!" He scratched the dog's ear. "Where's Lucy and Levy?"

The dog lead him into a side room. Peering inside, he whistled at the amount of books inside. Also prevalent were several characters Stephen said were from Japanese animation. He chuckled at the guys on the wall, but stopped. Why was it bothering him so much that she had anime stuff? Shaking his head, he spotted the blonde at her desk. Her head was laying down on its surface and her eyes were closed, breathing softly. Natsu was compelled to go over to her and watch her sleep. He noticed a stray hair on her face and he brushed it back. The light touch was enough to stir the blonde midfielder awake.

She blinked sleepily at the hand in front of her. Following the arm up, she saw Natsu with his normal goofy grin. "Hey sleepy head."

"Natsu? How did you get in here?" She tried to sound mad, but still in the doldrums of sleep, it came out as a yawn.

"Your room was open, Levy must have gone out. Whatcha doing?"

Lucy sat up and stretched her arms. "Nothing, just trying to write stuff and well I fell asleep." Plue trotted up to her and laid his head on her lap. She smiled and petted the dog.

"What're you writing?"

Lucy looked at her desk. "Just somethings I want to put down. I don't want a lot of people to read it yet. Levy's been a big help."

Natsu smiled. "Alright then. Want to grab a bite?"

Lucy tapped her chin. "Sure." The two left the room and headed out to grab some dinner. An hour and a half later Lucy was back in her room watching T.V with Natsu. They could hear Stephen cure as he's fighting something on screen and could only chuckle. As they settled to watch a movie, her phone rang. She looked down and frowned recognizing the number.

"Something up Luce?"

"Just a call from home. I'll be right back," She told him sweetly. She walked out of the room and into the hall. She clicked it on. "Hello Father," She said neutrally.

"Hello Lucy," Her father's voice greeted her. Lucy's father Jude was a serious man. He had cornered the market in the trains and shipping in Fiore. He used that wealth to purchase one of the current First Saint League teams, Acylpaha Town. The very team Magnolia City would be facing this week at the newly named Layla Gardens.

Lucy had been wanting to play for them, but she got into a massive fight with her father. Apparently he didn't think she could play for anyone despite some scouts suggesting otherwise. Instead, he wanted her to be arraigned to be married to another upper class gentlemen. Lucy had flat out refused and with some help from her mother, she was able to escape and get on the train she met Stephen on.

"I take this this isn't a social call. I thought I told you never to contact me!"

"Now Lucy, I'm sure you don't mean that. I mean we can let bygones be bygones after all," He smoothly told her.

"Get. To the. Fucking. Point!" Lucy Growled.

"I see your attitude hasn't changed. Well now, I have a proposition for you. You know Magnolia City faces my team on Sunday, Correct?"

"Yes. And I know my team will kick your team's sorry ass!"

"Heh, funny. I was gonna say the same thing. Because I have a way for Acylpaha Town to guarantee our win. And it's through you, my beloved daughter."

Lucy didn't like his tone as he continued. "All I want you to do, is make sure you cost Magnolia City the game. I don't care how you do it, just make sure they lose!"

Lucy snarled. "You have to be joking me! I won't let destroy this team because your team sucks!"

"Even it means reinstating you to the family?" Jude told her shutting the blonde up. "You make sure City loses and we can forget this little spat of ours ever happened!"

Lucy was close to blowing up but kept her cool. "Mother doesn't know about this does she? Don't care! You can forget your stupid deal. I'm a Fairy and I will be one until you see that I can play just as well as any of the women on my team! Good-bye and Good luck!" She angrily hung up and nearly threw her phone against the wall. She took a couple of deep breaths to calm down and headed back into the room.

Natsu looked up to see the blonde mad. "Something up?"

"Just my family being their worried self and I got frustrated at their worrying," she lied smoothly. "Anyway, I'm tired, rain check on the movie?"

"Sure. Night Lucy!" The forward told her and the blonde left the room. What they didn't notice was that Stephen's room had gone suspiciously quiet. The streamer had ended his stream about two minutes after Lucy left the room and was getting something to drink. He had heard Lucy's shouts and heard the tail end of her conversation.

'So Lucy's father wanted her to throw the game but she doesn't want to. Owner of Acylpaha Town huh? Time to do some research!'

With some random video he found on in the background, he delved into the background of their opponent. Pulling up the team bio page, he found it quite interesting. Up until Jude Heartfillia bought out the team seven years prior, they were languishing in the Fourth Saint League, highest tier where the teams were separated by regions. Coming from the northern tiers, they were on the verge of insolvency when the Heartfillia Corporation bought it out. Soon after the buy, he heavily invested the money he got from his shipping and energy company and bought in the best free agents they could get. It paid off as within four years he reached the top of second tier and eventually the First Saint League. It wasn't the first club to come back after heavy investment at a lower tier and reach the top but for a national company to do it was impressive.

It was at this top tier they ran into a wall. The skill level at any top tier European league was enormous and the First Saint League was no exception. He had aspirations for the top, but when you have teams like Magnolia City, FC Bosco and Alverez, it would take a herculean effort to even get into the European qualifying spots, much less winning it all.

Looking up the Heartfilia family, he smiled at the picture. It was with Jude, what he presumed was his wife and little girl he knew was Lucy. Looking at the mother, if it wasn't for the caption saying it was Layla Heartfillia, he thought he was looking at Lucy's sister.

"Damn, Lucy got some great genes," He admired.

"Who's got some great jeans?" Natsu asked coming in.

Stephen smiled. "Lucy. Take a look, the older woman is her mother."

Natsu walked up to the desk and saw the picture. He had to do a double take. Lucy's mother looked a lot like her, right down to her smile.

"Um…" He said with a blush. "Wow…"

"Yeah. Your girlfriend is gorgeous and her mother is not bad either"

Natsu looked away and grumbled. "She's not my girlfriend."

'Yet' Stephen thought. "Anyway, I was doing some research on the team and I came across some of this stuff. Was about to look up the company that owns the team."

"Wait Lucy's family owns the team?"

"Yeah, Jude's her dad. That right there sends up some possible red flags," Stephen told him. He looked up Heartfillia Corp and got news about potential money issues. "Their stock hasn't done so well, competition from among others, Kurosaki-Ishida and Souske. Also the fact that he's focusing too much on rails and shipping and they still haven't fully recovered from the Floods, especially in the Mediterranean. He shouldn't be investing so much in the team. So why would Lucy leave her family?"

"Maybe she's a gold digger and wants all that money?" Natsu theorized only to be punched in the gut.

"Don't think like that! Lucy would have gone to Magnolia United or another team if money was the issue!" Stephen growled. "I'm thinking, she had a falling out and because her mom probably still contacts her, she hasn't dropped her name. The fact we haven't called her out on her name is a blessing for her."

Natsu frowned, Stephen had a point. "So why the interest in this Heartfillia corps?"

"Cause I happen to catch bits of her conversation while you were in your room when I got something to drink. It sounds like she was upset with someone. Chances are, it was her dad."

"Still doesn't explain why your suddenly interested in them?"

"I think Jude asked Lucy to interfere in the game or baring that try to influence the refs."

Natsu gasped at the implications. "But why would he do that?"

"I don't know. But I need to talk to Gildarts in the morning about me going for the qualifiers. I could bring it up," Stephen answered.

Natsu nodded hesitantly. After a few more pages, Natsu got bored and went back to his room, leaving Stephen to contemplate further thoughts.

Two Days Later: October 3rd, Conference Room about 11AM Fiore Time

Gildarts watched the team settle in and frowned. He had just finished talking with a couple of players and would think about his formation carefully.

"Alright, this will be a standard meeting. We'll be going over our next game and the plans for the International games that are forthcoming. Those who are being called up to the national teams please let me know before Sunday."

He knew most of the team were Fiore born with the exception of Stephen who had already told him about his call up. Four members of his own team would be playing in the crucial set of games next week. Those being Natsu, Erza, Elfman and Mira. He also knew he would have to get everyone from the other teams to cooperate especially those from Magnolia United and AFC Alverez. One person he was glad wouldn't be available at least through this set of games was Natsu's brother Zeref. He got suspended due to a red card in the Israel game and would be out for the two games. To the outside observer, having one of the best players in the league benched would be a bad thing. But he knew most of the Fiore team would not work well with him.

"Okay now, for Sunday's game. We have it on the road against AcylpahaTown." He pulled up the projector and turned it on. "They're the middle of the pack at the moment. But don't let their record fool you, it can take one game to turn around a season. Anyway, they operate in a 4-3-1-2."

As Gildarts spoke, Stephen rolled his head, looking around the room. He typically tuned out the less important meetings, more interesting in other things. When his focus drifted he watched the other reactions to certain things. To his right, he saw Natsu bored but at least paying some attention to the briefing. Behind him Erza was taking diligent notes about their opponent.

"What!?" Lucy's scream to his left caught his attention and he winced. Sounds like Lucy got the bad news.

"Lucy, your ankle is still not 100% I don't want you starting. You'll still be on the bench but I don't think your ready to go 90 minutes."

Lucy huffed as Gildarts continued the meeting. "After the World Cup games, we have a Champion's League game against Wolfsburg. After our win against Barcelona, they'll be playing us tough. Don't let your egos cloud your playing ability. Dismissed."

Lucy stormed out of the room at that order. Stephen sighed and followed Natsu who was just as worried about the blonde's behavior. They reached a side room and she unleashed a tirade. "My ankle is just fine! How dare Coach Clive bench me like this!"

"Luce calm down, you're not exactly helping the coach's case!"

"Yeah so? Right now I'm the best scoring midfielder we have, and I want to get out there and support My Team!" She huffed. "I know the medical team cleared me to start! Why did he say no?"

A voice caught their attention. "That…might have been my fault." They turned to see Stephen walking in. "I asked Gildarts to at least keep you out the first half when I talked about the call up to the U.S Team.

The blonde looked betrayed. "Why?"

"Cause you weren't exactly quiet when your dad called you," He replied. "Based on your conversation, your dad offered something of value to do something related to the game."

Lucy's silence was enough for both of them. Stephen sighed. "I don't care what he offered, but if any other opposing team called a player specifically it's not good."

The blonde glared at him. "Why would you care? I wasn't going to take the deal! I can't believe you betrayed my trust like that. I thought you were my friend!"

"I am your friend and its because of our friendship I refuse to let you go down the path the rest of this league seems to be taking!" Stephen snapped.

Lucy's anger was replaced with confusion. "What are you talking about?"

"He's saying he's trying to find and root out the corruption from the league," Natsu tried to clear up. "Metal face thinks there's a cold war in the league and most of the teams have tried to manipulate the outcomes of matches."

"I suspect Oak Town might have tried to manipulate the betting in our curbstomp. If it's true that might have sent red flags to some UEFA representatives. I do know, however that the betting was cancelled due to the irregularities in some of the betting. But until they look, I need this to be only be need to know. Only three other people outside this room know at the moment, and that's Gajeel, Makarov and Gildarts."

Lucy finally sat down at the info dump. "So my father wants…I can't believe him. I always knew he was as a bastard." She sniffled and Natsu walked over to hug her.

Stephen sighed. "I'm sorry to dump all of this on you. But I assure you, Magnolia City will not fall if Makarov, Gildarts and I have something to say about it. They can research stuff in their own time. As a player and a foreigner, I can sneak under the radar. Right now, the important thing is play our games. I'm gonna see if I can find stuff when I get back."

"Maybe I can help too," A familiar voice startled them. They turned to see Lisanna walking up to them, shyly crossing her arms.

"Lisanna? How much did you hear?" Stephen asked.

The white haired girl looked away. "Enough to get an idea of what your saying. I can help too. I still keep friends on the streets. Some of them are in the more…dubious side of the law but they are good people. Maybe they know something."

"You don't have to do this," He told her.

"I want to. Besides, I get to do something with you. Saving our sport sounds fun!" She cheered.

Stephen smiled. "Alright." He turned back to Natsu and Lucy. "No one else knows until I say so. Only trust Gajeel, Makarov and Gildarts with this information."

Everyone nodded. Stephen turned back to the door. "Now then, let's get something to eat! I'm hungry!"

His friends laughed and walked out behind him. If anyone watched them, they would see Stephen's arms around Lisanna's waist and Lucy leaning into Natsu's.

Sunday October 6th an hour before game time.

Lucy sighed as she stretched out her legs. She looked around at the moderately sized stadium. Her father would name it after her mother, his wife. That was big stink with the supporters after the team got bought out because of the history. Most clubs around the world didn't get new stadiums or rename them. When there was a change, there was always a battle between the town, the supporters and the ownership.

The blonde stood up and saw Mira approaching her. "Hey Lucy. There's a woman here asking for you."

Intrigued, she followed the defender to midfield. As they got closer, she saw a familiar head of hair in a blue dress and immediately sprinted towards her. "Mom!?"

The woman saw Lucy approach and waved. "Lucy!" The two tearfully embraced in a hug. Releasing, Layla took a look at her daughter. "Look at you, I can't believe you're playing for a team like Magnolia City!"

Lucy giggled. "Thanks mom. It took a bit, but no I'm a regular starter." She frowned. "How's dad? I'm sure he's said something about today."

"Yes, well, he's been a bit more distant lately, but don't worry about your father. You're pursuing your dream. No one should stop you."

"Thanks mom," Lucy sniffled.

"Luce!" Natsu called out jogging over. He saw the blonde woman in the stands. "Oh I didn't know your sister was here."

Layla giggled. "Such a flatterer. No, I'm Lucy's mother. And you must be my daughter's boyfriend."

This got both of the players to sputter and made Mira giggle. "No, he isn't…at least…Your embarrassing me mom!" Lucy sputtered.

"Ms. Heartfillia p-please, we aren't l-like that!" Natsu answered while answering in his head. 'At least not yet!'

Layla pouted. "Shame, you would be so cute!"

"I know right?" Mira squealed. "Anyway, it's nice to meet you Ms. Heartfillia, I hope we can talk to her the game!"

"Me too." Layla told her. She turned to her daughter. "I hope we can sit down to talk soon. I miss you. Your father was an idiot forcing you away."

Lucy nodded and headed to the locker room. Layla sighed and was escorted by one of the servants up to the super box with her husband. Jude watched her come in. "I take it Lucy is doing well?"

"As well as she can be considering you drove her off," Layla said crossly.

Jude said nothing and turned back to the field. "Is she starting today?"

"No, something about her ankle. She might go the second half," His wife responded.

He said nothing and turned back to the field. Unseen to his wife, he gripped his chair in anticipation of the coming match.

Broadcasters

Chamati: Good Morning First Saint League fans! We are here at the lovely Layla Gardens for week 6 with Acalypha Town hosting League front runners Magnolia City. I am Chamati Lola and my partner today is Jason Thompson. Jason, Magnolia City continues to impress as they demolished early season favorites Oak Town, 7 goals to 1.

Jason: That includes 4 goals in less than 5 minutes. Two of those goals were by bundle of energy Natsu Dragneel. He has put the team on his back and has tearing through defenses like a sword. (Both goals against Oak Town are shown) You give him an inch, he will score quickly. And he managed to score twice in less than 90 seconds, he deserves the nickname the Fire Dragon!"

Chimatti: Both forwards have stepped up since Laxus Dreyer and in fact the entire midfield has contributed the tempo of the game especially with captain Scarlet prowling the midfield.

Jason: They are one of the most cohesive units in the league but one of the cornerstones Lucy Heartfillia won't be starting today. She had a flare up of the injury suffered in the Barcelona game and out of precaution will not play at the least the first half. So the coach's daughter Cana Alberona will take over. But with the way the other five are playing, it might not matter though not having a calming presence in the midfield might hurt them as Natsu is sitting on three yellows and Erza two.

Chamati: They can get a bit rowdy, but they wouldn't be Magnolia City otherwise. Speaking of Heartfillia, that's the name of their opponents Acalypha Town. They are owned by the Heartfillia Corps, run by patriarch Jude. The story is Lucy wanted to be independent of her father and well at least for the first half she isn't going to get that.

Jason: Acalypha Town was talk of the league three years ago when they broke through after near bankruptcy. But with the brick wall that is the top 5 in the First Saint League, they have struggled with consistency.

Chamati: Well if they can beat Magnolia City, they can certainly get on track to the top. For now let's send it down to the tunnels.

In the tunnels, Natsu was the last in line behind Stephen. He looked to where Lucy was supposed to be, in front of Lisanna, with a frown. The American glanced over his shoulder. "Lucy is still out there, let's focus alright? We are a deep team, Cana can handle it. Especially if she's sober."

"Don't worry, the drinking will be after the game," the brunette giggled.

Lisanna looked back at him. "Lucy will be fine, she can be in the second half."

Natsu smiled before the guards motioned the team forward. The crowd gave polite applause as the team took the field coming from the southern goal. On the other side of the field, the large screen came to life. Pat Benatar's Love is a Battlefield played over the speakers as the Home team took the field.

Stephen sighed. "Not the best song for them. Give it a five out of ten. I can imagine some of the other teams being metal songs.

Lisanna agreed. "I know two are from what I've looked up. But less focus on music more on the game."

"Right, right. Chill Lis," He grumbled.

"Where is your head at? You're acting worse than Natsu!" Lisanna asked as they lined up.

"Sorry." Stephen said sheepishly. He scanned across the opposing team. "No women. Guess Lucy was right about Jude not believing they should belong on a team."

"Politics later, game now!" The midfielder shouted as the opposing team took the kick. Unlike the game against Oak Town, this one was more conservative with few scoring opportunities. Acalypha Town was finding itself outclassed physically especially in the back line. Meanwhile, Magnolia City was getting opportunities into the box but they were making amateur mistakes. These mistakes would catch unprepared teams off guard, but Magnolia City seemed to be immune to the home team's tries.

The most notable thing happened about twenty minutes in. Stephen was going for the ball on one of the midfielders and tripped up the player. The ref saw it and marched over to hold up a yellow card.

"What the heck!? That was not a foul!" He snapped at the ref. Before he could get into the ref's face, Erza pushed him back.

"Calm down!" She barked. "Get back in line and focus!"

"That foul was not a foul and you know it!" He spotted the guy getting up. "He's not even hurt!"

"It happened and we'll move on!" She told him.

Stephen growled and went back to where he awaited the free kick.

Chamati: I think this is the first time the American has been carded this year. He's normally more composed than that.

Jason: It was a clean challenge from up here, but the ref didn't think so.

On the bench, Lucy groaned. "I wanna be out there! Stephen clearly needs someone else to calm him down!"

Levy overheard her. "Lucy you can't go out there with your ankle like that."

"My ankle is fine! Coach!" She waved to him getting his attention. Gildarts stepped over to her and leaned down. "What's up Heartfillia?"

"I need to be back in the game! Please coach!"

He looked back at the field. "I know you do, but I don't want you risking your body right now!"

Lucy was having none of it. "My ankle is fine! We both know why I'm not out there! I want to prove to my father I can play!"

Gildarts looked back out on the field and saw his daughter Cana. He suddenly found himself in Mr. Heartfillia's place and realized she was right.

"You do have a point. Mcgarden!" He called out to the petite girl. "Go with Heartfillia make sure her ankle is better. Get Bisca to take another look."

Levy nodded and brought the midfielder over to the green haired assistant. Even though Bisca had gone maternity leave she still wanted to help, so she became a nurse. Seeing she liked it, she decided to retire to take care of her daughter and focus on being a nurse. Makarov seeing her heart for the team, allowed her to be a doctor's assistant on the field. For more serious injuries they would turn to their on-staff doctor.

Lucy went through her routine to get her legs warmed up. It was quite cool, the Fiorian fall beginning to settle in, which with the Mediterranean climate meant it was breezy especially this far in. She knew with some of the recent rains it was also going to be humid, meaning there was a possibility for cramps. But she was more concerned to get her ankle ready. As the game approached half time, Bisca walked over and examined her leg.

"Hm…Looks good. Tell Gildarts you can go for the second half."

Lucy nodded enthusiastically and walked over to the coach. Gildarts caught her out of the corner of his eye. "You good?"
"Yep. Who's gonna come off?"

"Don't know yet. But I've seen how you work with Lisanna, Grey and Erza so it might be Cana."

Lucy nodded and two minutes later she followed the team into the locker room. The mood was more subdued, mainly because they didn't score in the first half.

Stephen was still in a bit of a bad mood over his yellow card. "Damn it, everyone knew that was not a yellow card. Stupid ref!"

Lisanna grabbed his shoulder before he did more damage. "Relax, it was just a yellow card. Don't blow your top and get another one."

The American sighed. "I know. Some of the stress is getting to be, just need something to calm me down after this."

"I'll help you out," the blue eyed girl told him. He smiled in gratitude. He spied Lucy talking with Natsu. "Lucy, you going in?"

"Yeah my ankle is better!" She said gleefully.

Stephen nodded. A few moment later, they were called back onto the field. As they left the locker room, Stephen grabbed Lucy's shoulder and whispered into her ear. "That should throw off any bettors and whatever your dad had. I hope you're ready to show him you mean business."

Lucy grinned, something that would not be out of place on Natsu.

Booth

Chamati: We are back at Layla Gardens for the second half. Its scoreless which might be a small moral victory for the Acylpaha Town.

Jason: I'm sure Coach Gildarts spoke to the group in the locker room and made the right changes.

Chamati: One of those changes is right now as Lucy Heartfillia takes over for Alberona. Yes as in Jude Heartfillia's daughter.

Up in the booth, Layla clapped. "Oh good, we get to see Lucy play dear.

Jude's eyes narrowed. "So it seems. Let's hope she doesn't embarrass our name."

"Jude, I swear to god your dumb pride is going to be the end of you," she snapped. You had a chance to sign your very talented daughter, but your misogynistic ways made her leave!"

The business owner said nothing and looked at the field. 'You may be right. But this match will show my daughter's ineptitude and her independence is nothing to the power we wield! Once they lose, she'll be crying to come back!'

On the field, Lucy narrowed her eyes at the booth where her dad was. Stephen saw it and motioned to Natsu. He took one look at the blonde and grinned. At the ref's whistle he kicked it to Erza who immediately kicked it out to Lisanna. She took it up field then passed it back to the American who one timed it to Lucy who was already in full stride and onside. She launched a rocket to the goal keeper's right and was already celebrating as it went in. All of that, from the whistle to the shot was 12 seconds.

Booth

Chamati: Ref signals to play and we are underway for the second half. Scarlet passes it up to Strauss. Speeds up, dumps to Decatur. He one times it to Heartfillia in Stride! She's onside and IN! 12 seconds after she comes on, she makes an immediate impact!

Jason: Well whatever issues she had seem to be long gone. That shot was amazing and just like that Magnolia City has life in them and that's a bad sign for Acylpaha Town.

Up in the super box, Layla clapped in delight. "Go Lucy!" J

Jude though clenched his seat in rage. 'That girl! I told her to make sure they lose!'

"That was a great goal right?" Layla asked. Getting no response, Layla huffed. "You're going to be eating your words soon enough.

Back on the field, Lucy was jogging back to midfield. She spotted Stephen across the field and pointed at him. He responded by giving her a thumbs up.

Acpalyha Town 0-1 Magnolia City

Heartfillia (MAGC) 46'

With Lucy's goal, Magnolia City seemed rejuvenated. They increased their pressure on the entire defense of the home team. They took a few shots, two of them even getting through to the goalkeeper. With each shot, they were getting closer and closer to getting another goal.

That goal came at the 65 minute mark. Magnolia City was given a free kick after a hard challenge to Natsu resulted in a yellow card for one of the defenders. The ball was placed about twenty yards out on the keeper's left and Lucy believing she can get the shot took it. She lined up and scanned the goal keeper. Seeing the keep too close to the side she was on, she picked her target. On the whistle, she marched up and launched the kick. The ball curved as it arc through the air. The curve was enough to carry it away from the goal and into the top corner.

Chamati: Heartfillia setting up the goal. The wall being set up. (Whistle) Ref gives the go. She lines up. Launches, curving Away! AND IN! That's 2 goals for blonde midfielder. There is a fire in this girl and it has spread to the other 10.

Jason: What a shot, Heartfillia is play like a girl possessed and that's two for the former hometown girl.

Acpalyha Town 0-2 Magnolia City

Heartfillia (MAGC) 46' 66'

Jude saw the goal and actually stood up to pace around. Two goals by his daughter? This was absurd. He looked back at the monitor and caught sight of his daughter smiling as she celebrated the goal. Something changed in him as his daughter celebrated with her team. "Is…this what makes Lucy happy?"

Layla heard him and smiled not even taking her eyes off the action. "You finally realized that huh? About time."

Jude grabbed his head. "Am I horrible father? I pushed her away because…oh my god I can't believe what I did.

Layla walked over to take Jude's hand. "You still have time to apologize to her. She wanted to pursue her dream and she was willing to forsake the future you planned out for her."

Jude sighed. "I know. All I wanted was someone to look after the company when I stepped down. I mean our fortunes haven't been the best lately, but I still want Lucy to have the best future possible.

"And she will. Maybe one day she'll settle down. Maybe with a nice boy from her team."

"Any boy wanting my daughter will be castrated to the highest degree!" The man growled getting his wife to giggle. "If you'll excuse me I have a call to make." He left the room and pulled out a phone. Dialing a number, he waited for the call to connect. When it went through, he smiled. "Isshin? This is Jude Heartfillia. I've decided to change my mind about our deal." (For those who don't know this is 5 months before the start of Bleach Grand Prix)

"Let me guess, your family is more important."

"Yes. I guess I had a change of heart. Are you still willing to negotiate a partnership here?"

"Of course. We aren't like Souske limited. We get minority share, you get the capital to stay afloat and advance your business. Sounds like a win win!"

"Yes. Well good luck next week in GP2!"

"Hehe we are already nearing GP1! My boys are great!"

"Yes. Well, I got to go, my team is getting their butts kicked.

"Right, right, we'll talk Monday!"

Jude nodded and hung up. Returning to the box, Layla noticed him smiling. "Something the matter honey?"

"No. Just securing our future so I can be something again."

"What?"

Jude smiled down at the field. "A father." He motioned to Layla to follow her down to the field. A few minutes later they appeared on their team's side. There was about four minutes left in the game at this point. They watched Magnolia City attack again. This time Natsu took into the box and fired a shot. It bounced off the keeper and Lucy was there for the rebound for her third goal and a hat trick.

Chapati: City on the attack again. Decatur passes it up to Dragneel! Onside! Fires off the keeper! Heartfillia gets it! AND THAT's 3! A spectacular hat trick for the rookie midfielder.

Jason: She came to play today and she has played beautifully. A hat trick for the Heartfillia midfielder. (Camera cuts to her parents) And look at the proud parents. I think there might be some reconciliation later.

Lucy was already in the arms of her teammates as they celebrated the goal. She happened to turn and catch her parents cheering. She wanted to cry but there was still three minutes plus extra time left.

Six minutes later the end of the game was called and Magnolia City celebrated the goal. Jude and Layla made their way to the field and headed towards Lucy. Lucy was in Natsu's arms and saw them approach. Feeling Natsu's arm wrap possessively around her, she patted his arm and approached them.

"Hello Jude," She said neutrally.

"Hello, my daughter. I wanted to congratulate you on your performance. You did wonderful."

"Even for a girl?" She asked keeping her temper in control with the cameras on her.

"Yes. I want to apologize. For everything. This old man made a mistake and I will understand if…" He was cut off by a teary eyed Lucy hugging him. "I'm sorry too dad! For everything! I love you!"

Jude sniffled and returned the hug. The cameras caught the embrace and focused on them. With the Magnolia City team, they all smiled at what she did.

"That was beautiful!" Mira squealed.

Stephen grinned. 'Great job Lucy. Guess your father can be changed.' He turned back to head to the locker room. 'Perhaps there can be change for everyone else. But it'll be long and hard. When I get back from the U.S I need to take this seriously. But for now, Natsu, you better win. I want to face you at the Cup!'

He left into the tunnel as Magnolia City celebrated. But there was a seriousness in the air as the final round of World Cup qualifying takes place in the coming week. Who will represent Europe in the tournament? Find out as First Saint League continues.

End of Chapter

UO: Why did this take so long?

New team:

Acpalyha Town: Founded in 1954, it was close to liquidation before Jude Heartfillia took over and promoted themselves all the way to top tier.

Emblem: A Red Lotus

Uniforms Home: Red shirt Green Pants Away: Green Shirt and white pants

Preview: The First Saint League takes a break as the Final rounds of the UEFA World Cup Qualifying takes place. Fiore faces Poland for their World Cup lives. Who will win? Find out next time

Next Time: World Cup: Fiore vs Poland

Next update is Nakama United and then a skip of this for 2nd Magnolia

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OSPREY...SWOOOSH