Chapter 6 - Seeking Answers
Outside the tower of heaven
Everyone was hanging on for their lives as the boat was being rocked back and forth by the waves caused by the collapsing tower. Even with Gray's ice shield, they could still feel the impact which made matters worse as the shield started to crack. However from everyone's point of view, they were unsure as to what was happening at the top of the tower as Simon managed to reach them and started sailing away before Erza and Natsu could recover.
Well Natsu wouldn't recover as his motion sickness activated upon entering the boat. No one could ever understand what was going on in Natsu's body to make him automatically feel and act as if he was on death's door upon entering a mode of transportation. Which didn't help as the boat was getting tossed around in the air before being pushed towards a safe distance away from the collapsing tower.
None of them were able to notice that Siegfried crashed into the water after being pierced the shards of the tower's lacrima. What they did notice was a giant serpent coming out of the water and heading towards the nearby rocks.
"What the hell is that thing!?" Gray asked as he saw the serpent wrap itself around the mini rock island before disappearing in a cloud of smoke.
Seeing as the rock formation was the closest thing to a plot of land. The group decided to paddle over there and recover until the water started to calm down. Natsu was the first one to celebrate as he preferred some random rock in the middle of the ocean over more sailing. However everyone's recovery was cut short by the sight of screeching and arguing.
"GRAH! RELEASE ME FOX!" a dark voice yelled.
Everyone snuck around to find a dark figure restraining Nightmare with several golden chains, "Hold still, you're only making things more difficult." the figure said.
"Remove my chains at once! There are many souls yet to be harvested!" Nightmare exclaimed as he tried to break free of his restraints.
"I'm going to suppress you now. This world doesn't need more threats, especially with the gaki being stuck as a jinchuriki for a second time." the figure said as he activated a seal that harmed Nightmare.
"The Nightmare will never end! I will drag you all to cesspool of darkness!" Nightmare yelled before he fell apart and revealed a badly injured Siegfried.
The figure sighed as he sat Siegfried up, "Shit, you really did a number on yourself. You overdid it with the gates didn't you?" he asked. "Well, I better drag your ass to Magnolia." he said while scratching his head.
"Hey! Who the heck are you!?" the figure turned to see Natsu.
"An old friend you could say. Now that you're here. You can drop him off at the old hut." the figure said as their face was covered by a hood.
"Then what are you doing to Naruto? Also what was that thing he turned into?" Gray asked as he got up into the figures face.
The figure pushed Gray back, "That creature is Nightmare. It's a cursed monster that inhabits Siegfried's mind." he said.
"Then take it out!" Gray ordered.
"I cannot due that. He wields the cursed sword and refuses to give it. However the sword has a mind of its own and has grown a liking to Siegfried here." the figure answered. He then turned back to Siegfried who was having feint breathes, "There is no more time for conversation. We must return to Magnolia town at once." he said.
The rest of the group hurried over to them as he said that, "Well Magnolia town isn't exactly a few minutes away." Gray said.
The figure immediately pulled out a tri pronged kunai, "With this, it will be in a few seconds." he said.
"Wait..." before anyone could object, they all disappeared in a yellow flash.
Magnolia town, at night
The group reappeared in the center of Magnolia town and were shocked by the drastic speed as well as feeling disoriented by the technique.
"What the hell was that!?" Natsu asked.
"Magnolia? This quickly?" Erza asked.
"I feel sick." Lucy said as Juvia nodded in agreement.
"I have no time for your ailment. Siegfried needs our assistance." he said.
"Hey, why do you care about Naruto so badly? We don't even know your name and yet you went so far for him." Lucy asked.
"All you need to know is I am a friend and my name, is Kurama." he answered.
"So... what should we do?" Wally asked as he felt awkward.
"We should assist, Naruto-san saved my life and I owe it to him that he received medical treatment." Simon stated.
"You are more than welcome to help carry him." Kurama said as he put Siegfried's arm over his shoulder.
Millianna had other thoughts as she grabbed Happy and hugged him tightly, "You boys are big and strong. So I'll stay here and protect Happy-chan." she said.
"I need help! Help me away from this lady!" Happy said as Natus tried to wrestle him out of Millianna's grip.
Meanwhile, at Porlyusica's hut
The elderly healing mage was calmly sitting at her table while drinking some tea. All while reading one of the many letters that her grandson left her.
"Naruto-kun, I am only limited to my imagination. I can never truly understand what emotions you've gone through." she said to herself as she read the letter.
Dear Granny Porly,
Today is August 12 I think, X780. I can't tell since the last boat took too long, but I got a free ride for helping move the cargo. Anyways, I ended up running into some weird blonde lady named Sophitia. She was really weird and before you say anything, let me tell you why.
She claimed to be some kind of messenger or disciple of a god. I'm no atheist or anything, but she kind of freaked me out whether her weird spiritual thingy. She was talking about how the sword would corrupt my soul and humanity and then the world. Well this Sophitia lady already freaked me out so I ran at the first chance I got. Then I fought her and won.
I know you don't like me hitting girls, but it was a self defense thing since she wanted to find the sword first. Besides, I already had to fight some tough ninja girl named Taki and this samurai guy, Mitsurugi. I was already having a tough time and didn't need to worry about getting ambushed and attacked all the time. Let alone some nutcase that was trying to ask me if I had time to read her weird book. Then again, she must be really serious and devoted since I almost got my butt kicked the first time since I thought she was a pacifist who scares people by waving a sword around.
First mistake, don't underestimate a woman. Second mistake, don't demean a woman. Women are scary, no offense granny.
Anyways, I should probably get to bed soon. I trained a lot today and learned about the sword's location. It's in the possession of some old pirate guy called Cervantes De Leon. I heard he's super strong and cunning. Besides, the sword he has can change shape and form so it might give him a power boost. There aren't too many mages here by the way, most of them are really strong and I bet some of the adults would have a hard time even though they rely on weapons and hand to hand combat. I remember almost losing my head when some lady with a spear knocked away my sword from my hands.
First rule of fighting, use anything to win and I need to learn some boxing or something. I bet you're probably going to be mad when I come back full of bruises and a dislocated shoulder.
Jokes aside, I miss you. I'm gonna try to write again after I find that Cervantes guy. Hopefully I also find a good mail courier to send these letters to Ishgar. I'm losing my mind when I'm pretending to talk to you, Levy and everyone else.
-Love S. Naruto.
Porlyusica smiled as she put the letter away and looked at the large stack she still had left to finish.
"I will continue tomorrow if I have time." she said to herself before hearing someone barge into her home.
This immediately ticked her off and she prepared to yell at her intruders until her heart stopped at what she saw. Coming in was Natsu who was helping Sho, Wally and Simon with carrying Siegfried who was bleeding out of his side.
"What have you miscreants done to my grandson!?" Porlyusica yelled as they laid Siegfried on a bed.
"It wasn't us lady! Ok, well we were a part of what caused it but..." Wally tried to say only for Simon to cover his mouth.
"Ma'am, your grandson was in an accident saving the lives of myself, Erza and Natsu. He was battling a former friend of ours and attempted to flee right after only to be caught near an explosion." Simon explained as the rest of the group entered the hut.
Porlyusica grimaced at the explanation, "Give him space, I need time to work and inform Makarov. He has the right to know. Levy too, she's the only other family Naruto has." she said.
"I'll tell Levy and the master!" Lucy said as she ran out.
"Let's get out of here. Not only to give the guy some space, but because I'm feeling really uncomfortable." Wally said as he scurried out with Simon and Sho behind him.
Then there was Millianna who was still outside and wrestling Natsu in an attempt to hang onto Happy, "Hey it's my turn to hold the kitty cat!" she said with a pout.
"He's not a stuffed toy! He's my friend!" Natsu argued.
"Gray-sama, will Naruto-sama be alright?" Juvia asked in a worried voice.
Normally Gray would be the usual ice cold jerk, instead he decided to tone it down, "I hope so Juvia. Naruto seemed like a distant jerk, but he had his reasons. It's just one of those moments where you have to let other people handle things themselves I guess." he said while stuck with his shirt half way down.
"Gray-sama, are you trying to take your shirt off or actually putting on?" Juvia asked.
"...I don't even know anymore." Gray said as he stumbled into a wall.
Juvia gently grabbed him and helped him out, "Let us go Gray-sama, before two people need medical help." she said as they left the hut.
Erza just stood there and watched Siegfried's unconscious form, "Is there any way I can help?" she asked.
"No, I need my space." Porlyusica answered as Erza nodded sadly and left.
"A-A-Alright." she said dejectedly before briefly looking back.
Porlyusica sighed as she began to work on patching up her grandson's wounds, "Why do you do this to yourself Naruto?" she asked.
In Siegfried's mind
Siegfried opened his eyes and found himself sitting on a chair. In front of him lied the woman in bandages. He could see that her eyes were wide open and her breathing was faint.
"Ma'am, are you feeling well? Is there any way I can help?" Siegfried asked only to get a grunt. "Would you like me to remove some of the bandages?" he asked and saw her nod slowly.
"Hn." she grunted as she pointed to the bandage around her mouth.
Siegfried gently cut off the bandage and started to hear her gasp for air, "Would you like some water or food?" he asked.
"Un... er?" she asked as she looked around and grasped the bruises on the side of her head.
"Oh... don't worry about the man. I put him in a cage. He can't hurt you anymore." Siegfried said as tears started to fall down her eyes.
"Is something wrong?" Siegfried asked.
"Mo... mo... mon..." she tried to say.
"I'm sorry I can't understand you." Siegfried replied sadly.
Her eyes started to water as she continued, "Monster... father call me monster..." she squeaked as she started to cry.
Siegfried gently lifted her up for a hug as he heard that, "You're not a monster. That man is not your father. A father who would hate his child has no right to be called or a man for that matter." he said before the woman started to cry loudly over his shoulder.
Back in reality
As Porlyusica worked on removing the armor and patching up the leaking blood. She looked up and noticed a stray tear falling down from Siegfried's closed eyes. The pink haired mage was unsure of what was happening, but decided to hurry with patching up Siegfried's wounds before wondering if any mental damage had occurred.
As she finished up, she was surprised by the sound of someone banging on her door rapidly. Porlyusica sighed as she opened the door to find Levy who was panting rapidly. The woman only looked down at the petite girl with worry as she could tell that Lucy gave her the recent news.
Closing her eyes, Porlyusica gestured for the bluenette to enter her hut, "He's on the bed Levy." she said.
"Thank you." was all Levy said before finding her brother figure unconscious on the bed. Levy watched with a sad face as many thoughts crossed her mind, 'You promised you would come back safe Naruto. Why do you keep getting hurt? You know I'm hurt whenever you're not here with me.' she thought tearfully.
"I know it hurts Levy." Porlyusica said as she placed a gentle hand on her shoulder. She watched as Levy held Siegfried's hand, "But Naruto isn't a little boy anymore. He would have likely wanted you to remain strong." she said hoping to comfort the blue haired girl.
Before realizing it, both women suddenly felt paralyzed and trapped in some sort of trance.
February X778
(Fate Zero OST - Grief)
After completing a mission, Siegfried decided to take a slight detour and visit a bookstore. Hopefully pick up something to help him develop some skills that could help him do better in future missions.
'Maybe Cana-chan would like something. Nah, she doesn't like reading and big brother doesn't read me stories anymore.' Siegfried thought as he looked through the aisles.
After a few minutes of rummaging and not finding anything catching his interest. Then again, his current reading level is very low for some of the literature. Siegfried ended up turning his attention to a little girl with blue hair at the counter.
"I'm sorry little lady. We don't take tabs here." the clerk told the little girl.
The girl kept digging through her coat's pockets, "No it's ok, I really have the money. It's just at the bottom here. I think." she said before pulling out a few coins and placing them on the counter next to some crumpled up bills.
"I'm sorry little lady, you're short about a thousand jewel." the clerk said.
The girl looked sad, "Well, maybe I don't need them all." she said as she decided which book to leave behind. After a couple of minutes the clerk started to look annoyed, "So hard to choose." she said when Siegfried suddenly placed money on the counter for it.
"Here you go mister. I didn't find anything I liked, so I'll pay for her so it doesn't feel like I loitered." Siegfried said as the clerk accepted the money and put the girl's books in a bag.
"Come again." the clerk said as he gave the books to the girl.
The girl watched with surprise as she wondered about the mysteries and generous boy.
With Siegfried
"Let's see, I think if I skip lunch I can still pay for the train to go back home." Siegfried said as he counted his money.
"Why?" Siegfried looked around to see the blue haired girl.
"Hi!" Siegfried greeted.
"Why did you pay for my books? You don't even know me." the girl asked.
Siegfried took a moment to think about it, "You needed help and I felt like helping." he answered bluntly.
The girl didn't like the answer, "If you're doing it out of pity. Then I should just return these." she said.
"Why? You wanted them and couldn't pay for them yourself. So what's wrong with a little help?" Siegfried asked.
The girl was stunned by the answer, "Just, who are you?" she asked.
Siegfried gave her a bright grin, "I'm Siegfried Naruto and I'm gonna be the future guild master of Fairy Tail!" he answered.
"Fairy Tail? What is that?" the girl asked.
"It's the best guild in all of Fiore obviously." Siegfried answered.
The girl puffed her cheeks at the answer, "If it's so great, than why haven't I heard of it?" she asked.
"Maybe you aren't a wizard like me." Siegfried said.
"I'll have you know that I use Letter Magic! But, I'm still getting used to it." the girl said.
"Ok, I hope that goes well for you. I should get going then, the next train to Magnolia is probably on it's way. Bye miss!" Siegfried said as he started to pack up and leave.
"Hey don't call me miss! You're older than me!" the girl said as she ran after him. "Also, can you tell me more about Fairy Tail!?" she asked while chasing after him.
"Sure, but first, you never told me your name miss." Siegfried said.
"Stop calling me miss! My name is Levy, Levy McGarden!" she said.
"Nice to meet you Levy Levy McGarden!" Siegfried replied.
A tick mark appeared on Levy's head, "Just Levy! Don't say my name twice!" she said as the boy laughed.
"Then you'll enjoy the guild Levy!" Siegfried said as he planned to invite her to the guild.
End
Levy blinked twice as tears started to come out of her eye, "Levy what was that?" Porlyusica asked only to see Levy's smile.
"Naruto remembered." was all she said before holding onto the older mage.
Three days later
"How is he Porlyusica?" Makarov asked worriedly.
The pink haired healing mage sighed, "Naruto is stable, but while I can see that shards of etherion pierced his body and opened up his wounds. Except it's worse than it is." she said as Makarov clenched his fist. "From the looks of things, he has a few compound fractures along with some torn muscles. It may take time for him to heal let alone wake up any time soon." Porlyusica added.
"I see." Makarov said before turning to a photo. "Ever since Naruto came back, I keep thinking about Mordred. About all the mistakes I've made and how she could have done better." he said while earning a frown from Porlyusica.
"Mordred would no doubt berate you for being a "cry baby" as she put it. Likely going on about how she's the "best thing" you've raised." Porlyusica said making Makarov's mood brighten.
Having heard that, Makarov just turned to the photo and envisioned Mordred speaking to him.
"Oh so now I'm a mistake? Old man, you gotta stop thinking about how much you screwed up and start making things right! Family is supposed to help each other right? So go fix our family!"
"Speaking of which, how is everyone else in the guild? Should I expect people intruding in my home?" Porlyusica asked knowing she didn't like visitors.
"Well you already know how Levy is. Cana is out trying to pick out a gift and Elfman, with encouragement from Mira, is trying to have everyone sign a card. While a few are solemn, a lot of the guild is just optimistic about him pulling through." Makarov answered.
"Well then, I can only hope that Naruto does pull through soon. I can only assume he's going to continue to be secluded upon hs awakening." Porlyusica said as she massaged her temples.
"I'm surprised that he wasn't secluded earlier. I should have at noticed Naruto's need for socialization after Laxus started to neglect him." Makarov said as Porlyusica placed a hand on his shoulder.
"Don't worry about then Makarov. Thing about today to prepare for tomorrow." Porlyusica said knowing how depressed her former teammate can be.
With Levy
Levy would often visit her brother and stay for long periods of time. Sometimes she would pass the time by talking to Siegfried as if he were conscious and was listening closely. Another thing that was on her mind, was that sudden memory of when they met.
"Maybe I was just hallucinating. Porlyusica was probably just going along with whatever I was on." Levy said to herself.
Before she realized it, someone else had entered the hut with her. Turning around, she saw Team Natsu coming in with a few weak smiles.
"Hi Levy, are we disturbing you?" Lucy asked apologetically.
"No, it's fine Lu-chan." Levy answered. "Although I'm sure Porlyusica hates having too many visitors." she said having known the elder mage for a while.
"So uh, how is he?" Natsu asked nervously.
"He has a few torn muscles and was pierced by a bunch of etherion coated crystals. I still don't get how the last one happened." Levy said.
"If it helps, Naruto kept me from eating some." Natsu said only for Lucy to hit his chest with her elbow.
"That's not helping whatsoever." Lucy said with a tick mark appearing on her head.
Levy giggled at the antics of her friends, "You two really compliment each other." she said.
"What's that supposed to mean?" Natsu asked.
"It means you and Lu-chan have great chemistry. While you're both different, you two know how to fill in the gaps of each other's strengths and weaknesses." Levy said as Lucy blushed while Natsu just looked further confused.
Then Gray spoke up, "That reminds me, Juvia also had something made for Naruto when he wakes up." he said as he pulled out a small teddy bear in a raincoat with a note.
Levy smiled as she looked at the gift and read the note. While it might be a bit messed up to read her brother's notes. She at least thought that she could be the protective sibling for once.
"Dear Naruto-sama,
This is Juvia, I wanted to thank you for giving me the opportunity to rethink my position in Phantom Lord. While I no longer have your shared memory. I can see we both shared pain in our lives and strived to make friends. Thanks to your letter, Master Makarov has given Gajeel-kun and I a new chance to start over.
Although it does break my heart to see that you've been injured. Just know that everyone in the guild is hoping for your quick recovery. Then again, we're likely not doing that anymore as you've already recovered since you're reading this. Anyways, I took enough of your time already. So don't be a stranger if you want to talk and I am not saying that because Gray-sama has rejected me whenever I asked him for a date which makes me feel very lonely.
From, Juvia Lockser."
Levy smiled at the gesture of kindness. Not even a few days in and Juvia wants to be friends. At least Levy doesn't have to worry about Siegfried having the chance to make new friends. Although she doubts Siegfried would be as open when he learns that Gajeel Redfox is a new member of the guild.
"Um Levy, has Naruto developed any progress in his recovery lately?" Erza asked nervously.
Levy frowned as she turned away from Erza, "Porlyusica stopped the bleeding and he's breathing normally, but that's it." she answered.
From there, the boys and Lucy noticed the awkward silence between the two. Gray had a good idea of why, Natsu didn't want to get into anything since he knew things were getting sensitive, but Lucy was a brand new member with little to no knowledge of her teammates. Also Happy has been oddly silent.
"Hey guys! Look, I'm a famous knight!"
Nevermind...
"Happy put that down!" Natsu said as Happy was wearing Naruto's damaged chest plate around despite it being massive.
"Hey Natsu, I get that the armor is crazy big and all, but I remember something. Wasn't Naruto all short? So why does he make you and Gray look like midgets?" Happy asked.
"Happy! You don't go calling me a midget! Naruto was probably drinking milk all the time and eating that healthy fruity crap!" Natsu said as he secretly felt jealous that the weakest runt in the guild was this big shot that's taller than him.
Happy laughed at his friend's jealousy, "Hey Levy, if Naruto's your big brother. Why didn't you drink milk all the time?" he asked.
Levy gave him a death stare that startled everyone, "Milk is the devil's latte!" she yelled.
"Don't you need milk to make coffee in general? So wouldn't it be everyone's latte?" Lucy asked with a nervous smile.
"I drink it black." Levy said as Lucy giggled knowing that kind of coffee doesn't need dairy.
All the while Happy was still going through the armor's contents. Which of course got Erza's attention as she felt uncomfortable trying to be civil with Levy. After all, Levy had loathed her the most after Siegfried had left.
"Happy what are you doing?" Erza asked in a stern voice.
Happy jumped in fear, "N-Nothing E-Erza, I-I was just making... making sure everything is where it should be!" he lied.
"Happy." Erza said.
Happy lowered his head in shame, "I was trying to see if Naruto had any fish. He owes me since he's my godfather." he said.
Lucy gagged at the idea, "I doubt someone as professional as Naruto would carry fish in his armor." she said.
"Well leave it alone Happy. Some people don't like having their privacy intruded upon." Erza stated.
"Then why do you, Natsu and Gray always break into my apartment?" Lucy asked.
"It's not breaking in if Mira gave us a key." Natsu said as he revealed a key.
"She gave me one too." Gray said as he also presented one.
Then Erza revealed hers, "Although it doesn't work as some strange barrier is keeping us out." she said.
Lucy groaned loudly, "Mira!" she whined.
"Hey Erza, Naruto practically uses the magic as you. So how do I put it back?" Happy asked.
"Well you can't, Naruto's requip is strange, but if it's like mine. He needs to manually send it back. Unless there's some seal or function that could send it back to it's storage location." Erza said as she scanned over the armor and found a strange seal on the back of the chest plate. "Here we go, maybe a little magic and here we go." she said as the seal lit upon channeling her magic onto it.
"Ok, so now what?" Gray asked only to see Erza disappear.
"Erza's gone." Happy pointed out. Levy shrugged her shoulders and turned back to Siegfried, "You aren't even worried Levy!?" Happy asked in a shocked tone.
"Erza gets herself into trouble all the time. Why should I be concerned?" Levy asked coldly.
Happy puffed his cheeks, "Why do you hate Erza so badly? I get she's scary, but she's like everyone's big sister!" he argued.
"Happy I don't want to argue with you about this." Levy said without facing him.
"Just leave her alone Happy. Levy doesn't have a good relationship with Erza remember?" Natsu asked as Happy nodded.
"Well that still doesn't explain where's Erza." Gray said.
With Erza
The armored wizard looked around to find herself in a strange room filled armor and many weapons that are placed inside display cases. The room looked furnished and had fine wooden floors and was well lit by a few hanging lights. There wasn't anything else particularly interesting as Erza focused on finding an empty case to place the chest armor.
"But I forgot the helmet and everything else!" Erza said while slapping her forehead. "I'll just place this back and figure out how to return home." she said before finding the correct case.
Grand Chariot
"Hopefully this is the correct space." Erza said as she carefully placed the armor on the rack inside the case.
Before long, the seal activated and summoned all the missing pieces and placed them together again. The nidaime Titania nodded at the impressive summoning technique before closing the case. Now all she had to do was worry about returning home before she breaks something.
"Although these are some impressive weapons and armor." Erza said as she looked at some of the cases.
Tribute Armor - Siegfried's replica of his mother's original armor painted in blue.
Knight of the Fairies Armor - Mordred's armor and it appears as she was a dwarf compared to her son. Next to it was Clarent, the sword Mordred always wielded in battle that carried the guild's sigil.
Armor of the First Dragon Slayer - The armor Siegfried wore when he appeared after Phantom Lord was defeated.
First Armor - It was hard to describe its appearance other than the fact that it's damaged and likely beyond repair.
Incursio - Silver armor with yellow eyes on the helmet. It comes with a cape and a spear like weapon.
Lord Fiore - A dark armor that bared the symbol of the king of Fiore. It looks incomplete and carries a large shield with it.
Dark Mage Slayer - Interestingly designed, it looks old and has two broken horns and each side. Erza frowns at the thought of the innocent child who wanted to befriend her had turned to murder.
"That's enough for now." Erza said as she left the room and tried to find her way out of the labyrinth that was Siegfried's storage space. After a long walk, Erza only found herself deeper into the space, "Where am I now?" she asked before turning toward another door.
Opening it, she found another room rather than an exit. Only this time she found some more interesting things. In the back was a book lying over a pedestal and on the side, a few piles of letters in a disorganized pile. Erza's need to create an organized environment was nagging her, but her common sense told her to respective Siegfried's privacy. Then her contradictory side said that common decency stopped making sense once she started going through another woman's panty drawer.
Erza sighed as she decided to take a look around anyways in hopes of finding an exit. If a seal brought here, maybe a seal or another device could help her leave. Instead, Erza did end up breaching Siegfried's privacy and found a photo on a wall. To her surprise, it was Siegfried before he let his hair grow and before he had his eye scarred. Another surprise, the young teen was smiling brightly as a pink haired girl with a horn on her head was sitting on his lap.
Taking it down, Erza turned over the photo and read the content.
"Franny, my one and only love."
Erza flinched for reasons she didn't understand, "No, Naruto has his own right to find happiness. Although, with how he's been acting. I suppose he thinks he's shared enough and wouldn't mention a girlfriend." she said before putting it back.
Turning back around, Erza decided to continue her search for an exit. She also glanced at the large book and assumed it to be full of novelty spells. Siegfried's only magic was duplicating himself despite the fact that the magic was rare to control and took a toll on reserves. Although rumor has it that the spell was copied off a similar technique from the ninja lands that Siegfried visited before. Maybe this was a book full of ninja skills?
Erza giggled at the idea, "I never expected him to be all serious. Although I don't think I would prefer him to be a literal ninja." she said thinking of Siegfried wearing black pajamas and throwing shuriken. "If it were Natsu maybe." she said knowing Natsu had an infatuation with ninjas.
Then she realized that maybe it still wouldn't be a good idea to go through the book. As far as Erza knew this could carry sensitive personal things that Siegfried wrote. At the very least it's full of bank account numbers and a lot of other personal information.
"I am willing to challenge many dark guilds and rarely the military and council, but I will never fight against a court for identity theft." Erza said even though her natural personality was compelling her to open it. "Damn it, I am Erza Scarlet! Titania of Fairy Tail, I will not in no way going to breach Naruto's privacy!" she said adamantly while raising her hand in the air as if she was saluting or something.
However Erza couldn't control her clumsiness as she ended up thrusting her hip the wrong way and knocked over the book. Thus her need nosy personality was fighting back once again.
"You cannot fight me Erza." said a voice.
"Inner Erza?" Erza asked.
"No, I'm snooping Erza. The side of you that likes to breach the privacy of others. You remember when you went through Lucy's underwear? That was all me." the voice in her head giggled.
"NO! I've hurt Naruto enough!" Erza argued as she clutched her head.
"Aw come on! I bet there's photos of Naruto without a shirt and showing off those abs. I bet he's big down there." said a perverted voice.
"Snooping Erza, what is wrong with you?" Erza asked.
"That wasn't me, that was Pervy Erza." Snooping Erza said.
"Yes it is, now let's see some pictures of our big boy before Mirajane snatches him! I'm tired of making you read those crappy erotic novels! Mama needs a real man!" Pervy Erza demanded.
Erza screamed at the top of her lungs, "LEAVE ME ALONE!" she yelled as the voices finally went away. Then she looked down and noticed that the book opened upon falling, "Well, it's not my fault if I look at what's inside. It was open after all." she said in denial as she picked up the book and read it's contents.
February XX, X780
I don't know what date it is since I lost track of time. I finally made it to Europe after finally departing from King Bahamut. I'm still kind of sad he couldn't give me cool magic like Natsu or tell me if he knew where Igneel is. Though at least now Natsu will want to be friends when I help him prove that dragons exist. Who knows? If I'm lucky I'll find Igneel and drag his scaly butt to Natsu.
King Bahamut said that it's possible that Igneel is like a green haired swordsman. They have no sense of direction and are too proud and stubborn to ask for help when looking. With that said, he said wyverns are dragons without arms. So everyone was wrong when saying dragons don't exist to Natsu. I bet Lisanna is already planning her wedding with Natsu. Maybe I'll be the best man unless I find Igneel. Wait can the father of the groom be the best man?
Who knows?
Once I find Soul Edge, I'll come back to the guild and everyone can respect me for being strong. I'll even make mama proud when I visit her grave.
Mama, you're not mad that I can't visit your grave anymore are you? I hope not, I just couldn't take it anymore and Erza hurt me too much. I love Erza and she hurt me when I helped her. Is this how you felt when my real grandpa hurt you mama? I wish you were here with me. Too bad Soul Edge isn't a wish granting sword.
And that was the end of the entry.
Erza covered her mouth as she let her tears free, "I... I shouldn't have read this." she said before her legs failed her and she slipped down. "I'm so sorry Naruto... all you wanted were friends... and I was the worst." she said in between sobs.
Before she realized it, Erza had been sent back along with the book in her hands.
Porlyusica's hut
Everyone was surprised to see that Erza returned but was sobbing uncontrollably. Which was a surprise for everyone as it was rare for a strong woman like her to cry. Erza wasn't this much of a mess when she went to the Tower of Heaven, which only left everyone wondering what got her upset. So all Erza did was show them the book only to lose the page that she read.
"Did the book make you cry?" Natsu asked.
"She probably realized it wasn't an erotic novel." Levy said bluntly without facing Erza.
"That makes sense." Natsu said as he was the only person besides Levy that is aware of Erza's favorite form of literature.
"It's n-not p-porn, I-I s-swear." Erza stuttered as she wiped away her tears.
Lucy bent down and looked at the book, "Erza does this belong to Naruto?" she asked.
"Y-yes... I guess I took it on accident." Erza answered.
Levy sighed, "Did you seriously steal from my own brother?" she asked.
"It was an accident. Please believe me when I say this! I couldn't find an exit either so the seal on the book sent me back!" Erza replied as she didn't want Levy to be angry.
"Did you read it's contents?" Levy asked with a critical eye.
Erza gave a bow of apology, "It was an accident, but I did. It's Naruto journal and likely details his journey for the past six years." she said as Levy nodded at obtaining the information.
"Fine, I guess I'll forgive you this one time." Levy said as she took the book and scanned over it. "Maybe, a slight peak would be ok." she muttered under her breath.
Suddenly she realized Natsu and Gray were looking over her shoulder, "She didn't mean you guys!" Lucy said as she grabbed her teammates and dragged them out.
"Hey where are we going?" Happy asked as he followed Lucy.
"I guess I'll be going too." Erza said before giving Levy one last look. "I know no amount of apologies will fix this Levy, but... I'm sorry anyways." she said as she left her alone.
Levy sighed as she glanced at the book and internally fought with herself as to whether or not to look inside. Taking a deep breath, Levy decided to open a random page and see what was inside. From the looks of it, it really was built like a journal and was filled with many pictures and drawings. Deciding to ask for forgiveness at a later time, Levy decided to give the page a read and not go further on.
December X779
Training has been intense, but I'm still feeling tense and feel like I need more time. It's not that I don't want to be go back to Fairy Tail, but I feel like I need the strength to be one of the top dogs at the guild. I bet Gildarts can still kick my butt though. The only person to ever beat him in a fight was mama even when they had a serious fight. At least that's what grandpa told me.
Mama was practically the strongest woman in Fiore in her age and it was pretty easy for her to be number one at the guild. Though it's probably because she had all her friends and family to support her. So I can't give up either! Grandpa and grandma are waiting for me along with Levy and Cana and baby Romeo!
If I have someone to fight for, than I can become strong too. I know King Bahamut and Kurama believe in me and that's what counts for now. So I should double my training with my sword before I move onto the taijutsu. Especially since I heard that everyone's going after Soul Edge. Kurama did say that something that "coveted" as he says will have a lot of competition.
So there's probably a lot of strong people with skills outside of magic. King Bahamut said, that using too much of one skill alone is bad since they can find my weakness fast. So it's a good thing I still have problems with my magic, but at least my clones make it easier to learn faster.
Just you wait Fairy Tail! Your future guild master is coming back soon and you better not cry when I become the strongest!
Levy giggled at her brother's antics at the time. Siegfried always spoke about becoming strong so he can be the next guild master someday.
"I bet you are a lot stronger now Naruto. You don't have to worry about anyone calling you weak." Levy said before kissing his forehead.
A week later
Siegfried hasn't awakened yet. The wounds are healed, but the mind is likely attempting to recuperate. At least that's what Levy and Porlyusica thought as there was nothing physically wrong with him. However a few things did change.
At some point during the past few days. Jet and Droy tried to threaten Gajeel for attacking Levy despite the fact that he was able to beat them before and they were still no match for him now. Instead Laxus arrived and called them both weak and Gajeel as unwanted trash before trying to electrocute Levy. Surprisingly, in an act of genuine kindness, Gajeel used himself as a body shield to stop Laxus from hurting Levy.
From there, an unlikely friendship was formed despite it being initially one sided with Gajeel wanting to avoid socialization. Then it got worse for Gajeel when he learned that Siegfried was her brother figure. Which made him want to avoid Levy even more for a while. At least until Gajeel calmed down and actually explained his initial fights against Siegfried.
"The first time... he hit me where it hurt. No not my groin, my pride." Gajeel said one day.
Then there was the assault on Phantom.
"I was excited, I would get back at the jackass. Instead you fairies got in the way and interrupted the fight again." he said.
And finally, Siegfried nearly killing him.
"I admit, seeing Master Jose having his mind turned to mush was not something worth smiling about. When he turned into that thing, "Soul Edge" I think it was called or maybe that was the name of the oversized knife he used. I can tell you, before he shot me with a laser. I was scared shitless when I felt that thing's killing aura." was Gajeel's final response.
From there, Levy decided that she needed some answers as she was afraid her brother was hiding something. Although to avoid breaching Siegfried's privacy to a certain degree. Levy decided to only go through anything that mentioned Soul Edge which was most likely the weapon or form that Siegfried was able to use.
From what the various entrees, Levy was intrigued to find out that it was a coveted weapon. However it seems as if Siegfried had very little knowledge at the time and only knew that many people were after it. Most of them hoping to gain power or a reputation by wielding such a powerful blade. From there on, it just documented the many opponents Siegfried had faced would either win or be set in a draw where he had to retreat.
Eventually Siegfried had one last entry where he said he came across a man named Cervantes who carried Soul Edge with him. The journal ended there for nearly a year.
April xx X781
The sword! THE SWORD IS ALIVE! IT'S NOT MAGIC! I DON'T KNOW WHAT IT IS!
I KEEP TURNING INTO THE MONSTER!
I CAN'T CONTROL IT EITHER!
ALL IT WANTS IS BLOOD! SOULS! IT CRIES OUT FOR SOULS!
I BEG AND I BEG AND I BEG AND NOTHING!
HOW MANY MORE LIVES MUST I TAKE BEFORE BEAST INSIDE RETURNS MY FREE WILL!?
OH GOD! *wet stain, most likely a liquid of some sort* I'M A DEMON AREN'T I? A MONSTER WITH NO REMORSE!
IS THIS MY PUNISHMENT? OH GOD, WHY DO I HAVE TO SUFFER! JUST KILL ME ALREADY AND DESTROY THE SWORD TOO!
Levy immediately slammed the book shut when she read that passage. The writing was crude and spelling was terrible, but it appeared as if Siegfried had been in a rush or really had lost his mind. Whatever Soul Edge was, there was something evil about it and Siegfried was hiding something.
Another week later
August xx X781
The sword can't be destroyed by normal means. I tried smashing it by various means and using other weapons. I've even tried pawning it off at one point, instead the buyer had lost their minds. As if Soul Edge had this ability to manipulate others, but instead of turning into that... that nightmare... their eyes turned red as if they had become possessed by demons.
Oh god help me, please someone. I can't even get rid of the forsaken blade without someone else losing their mind. I even tried hiding it and it somehow still managed to find me. It's like it needs me and I don't know why!
Why can't it bother someone else!? I'll need to throw it into the deepest part of the sea if I have to!
Levy sighed as she kept reading through the various pages to find out more about the sword. Only finding further evidence that her brother has almost lost his mind from the needless destruction that Soul Edge had put him through.
"Hey Shrimp, you learn anything new?" Gajeel said using the new nickname he came up with for the petite girl.
"No, just more of Naruto losing his mind. I'm really worried." Levy replied as Gajeel groaned.
"You'd be scared shitless if you saw the damn thing. At first I thought it was some kind of take over magic like what the Strauss guy uses. Except that thing had a mind of its own and won't care if it kills anyone since that's all it lives for." Gajeel explained.
Levy gave the book a sad look, "Well it would help if I could use my reading glasses, but Naruto put a seal on it that negates it. It's like he's still keeping secrets even though it's there for everyone to read." she said.
"Well he did put it in a personal space and like you said. Red likes to snoop around underwear drawers so..." Gajeel gestured for Levy to nod if she understood him. "You can't blame a guy for his privacy." he added.
"But I'm his sister! I may not be by blood, but besides Master Makarov, I'm the only family he has!" Levy argued.
Gajeel sighed as he cleaned out his ear with his pinky, "Hi Levy, it's me your big brother. By the way, I can turn into a psychopathic monster that I can't control and goes on random massacres without feeling remorse." he said while pretending to sound like Siegfried. "How does that sound shrimp?" he asked in a condescending tone.
Levy balled her fists knowing it was true. For an innocent boy like Siegfried to return one day and likely hiding secrets that could change the opinions of the people around him. From this point on, the journal just describes Siegfried's regret and his desperation to get rid of the sword.
"Well maybe I can figure out a way to lock it away. If only I had information like a chart. I feel like Naruto doesn't even know the full story." Levy said as Gajeel took the book.
"Here maybe you're reading it wrong. I bet the guy used invisible ink or something." Gajeel said as scanned the book. "Or maybe, we could skip ahead." he suggested.
Levy immediately started whaling on him, "NO! DON'T YOU DARE SKIP AHEAD GAJEEL REDFOX! BOOKS AREN'T MEANT TO BE SKIPPED LIKE DINNER! THEY HAVE TO BE KEPT ORGANIZED SO YOU DON'T NEGLECT THE IMPORTANT DETAILS THEY CARRY!" she shrieked which actually scared Gajeel.
"Forget it Shrimp! I'll do it myself, but first. A prayer to kami." Gajeel said surprising Levy as he placed his elbows on a table and put his hands together in prayer.
(Heaven's Choir sound effect)
"Oh father who art in heaven. Please hear my call and forgive me for my transgressions. For I am but a lost soul who is not making a request for himself. No, for I am speaking on the behalf of the one I recognize as Shrimp." Gajeel began to say as his head was lowered. "Please, awaken the one she calls brother and reunite the two." he added.
"Gajeel, I never knew you were this soft." Levy said.
"So that the one known as Naruto may not awaken and be filled with wrath. For I do not wish to be on the receiving end of a demon sword and be murdered. So if you're going to do one thing for me and nothing else. Please don't let it be my death! Come kami! I thought you were cool!" Gajeel prayed as he was already crying tears.
"There it is." Levy said while making a blank face and taking the book back. "You're right about one thing. Maybe there's a bit more to this." she said before Gajeel looked confused.
"So... we're not going to skip a few pages?" Gajeel asked.
"Nope, I really hate this idea. But I think we should check out his storage." Levy said as Gajeel started to cower.
"No way! That Naruto guy wanted to kill me for hurting you and those idiots. I'm not breaking into wherever he keeps his stuff!" Gajeel said adementaly as Levy sighed.
A while later
Since Gajeel is actually a chicken slayer rather than a dragon slayer. Levy managed to convince Lucy to come with her instead.
"Thanks for helping me Lu-chan." Levy said.
"It's fine, but uh... do you think Naruto will get mad that we're snooping around?" Lucy asked nervously.
Levy waved it off, "Naruto wouldn't get mad me. He loves his little sister too much." she said as Levy didn't feel any better.
A few minutes of looking around, the girls found the storage rooms containing the armor where Erza found herself earlier. Finding no leads there, they wound up in a room full of various weapons. Leaving Lucy wondering if Siegfried had a fetish for dangerous weapons. While Erza clearly appeared to have a lot more, these ones looked unique while Erza's were generic.
Excalibur Mimic - It looks like string for some reason.
Sword of the Kusanagi - The display case is empty.
Balmung - The original Siegfried's sword.
Hiraishin Kunai - A strange three pronged kunai.
Gunbai - A strange looking fan
Faust - The display said it's Siegfried's first sword, but appears to be heavily damaged.
Requiem - Another heavy sword in slightly better condition.
Ugetsu Kageuchi - An umbrella sword
Asauchi - A very plain and simple looking sword.
"You said it was a sword right?" Lucy asked as Levy nodded.
"Well there's a quite a few. Maybe he kept it somewhere else." Levy said thinking that Siegfried wouldn't leave a dangerous sword around somewhere where others could reach it.
Though he probably doesn't want anyone to be in his domain right now. So it would be best to to hurry and leave once they learn what they need.
After a long chase around the storage space. Both girls were about to give up until Lucy started hearing things.
"Are you ok Lu-chan?" Levy asked.
"Levy I hear someone." Lucy said as she gestured for silence. "It's like, someone's screaming or crying out loud." she said as she heard the voice and followed it.
Deciding to humor her friend, Levy followed Lucy who was chasing around the imaginary voice. Which lead to another room full of various books and strange objects. However Lucy's attention was focused on a golden key that was hanging on a wall.
"Aries!" Lucy called out as she grabbed the key. "Oh no, I can't summon her." she said as she could hear Aries continuing to plead to be summoned.
"Is something wrong Lu-chan?" Levy asked.
"Aries is one of Naruto's spirits. I think she's aware of his condition and wants to be let out, but I can't do it since I'm not the one who forged a contract with her." Lucy said as Levy could see the key shaking on it's own.
"Lu-chan, didn't you say that one of your spirits came out on his own when you were on the theatre job?" Levy asked.
"Levy that was filler! I'm not gonna remember filler!" Lucy replied as Levy scratched the back of her head sheepishly.
"Oops, I forgot that." Levy said before remembering the issue at hand.
Lucy tried to coo the key as if it were a baby, "Don't worry Aries, I'll bring you to Naruto once we leave." she said as she put the key away in her pocket.
Then suddenly Levy also started to hear a voice as well.
(Choices OST - This is One Case You DON'T want to solve)
"Where is he? Bring me to him!"
Levy started to shiver as if the air had become cold, "Levy I think we should leave." Lucy suggested as she also started to get the chills.
Levy was about to agree when she suddenly felt the air had become as cold as ice and the voice had grabbed her attention again.
"Fetch me the Azure Knight!"
Both girls turned towards the back and among the miscellaneous objects in the room. Both were horrified by the sight a large sword. The blade itself looked like it was made of flesh and was throbbing and to make it more disgusting and terrifying. It had a large eye that was moving around on it's own to prove that it was sentient.
"Lu-chan we need to leave! Like right now!" Levy said as Lucy nodded only to hear a loud growl.
"Levy I did not agree to enter a haunted house!" Lucy said as the growl scared her.
Suddenly both girls felt as if their legs had given up and refused to move. Leaving the two to hold each other in an embrace in hopes that the fear would leave their bodies.
"SAVE ME NATSU/GAJEEL!"
"Natsu? ReallY?" Levy asked.
"What about you? Gajeel just joined and he didn't make a good impression either." Lucy replied.
"Come to me."
Before they realized it, both girls found themselves elsewhere.
Unknown space
"You two look like you need a hero." both girls opened their eyes to find Siegfried was standing in front of them with a serious face.
"Naruto?" Levy asked.
"Who else?" Siegfried asked.
Levy couldn't help but to cry tears of joy as she lunged at Siegfried, "You idiot! You promised! You promised you would come back to me and instead you got hurt! You could have died!" she cried as she pounded her little fists onto his chest.
"It's fine now Levy. I'm not hurt and I'm here with you now. That's all that matters." Siegfried said. "Now come on, you girls should follow me. Otherwise you'll be lost within the sword's grasp. You're both lucky I showed up in time." he said as he grabbed Levy's hand.
"Hey Naruto, just how did you get here?" Lucy asked.
Siegfried chuckled, "I got here because I'm awesome like that." he said.
"Wow, someone sure is prideful." Lucy said while Levy looked worried. "Something wrong Levy?" she asked.
"Naruto, it's been so long since you laughed. Are you back to your old self?" Levy asked.
Siegfried scratched the back of his head, "Eh, no. I just don't like being social lately." he said with another chuckle.
"Ok there's nothing funny. That laugh is creeping me out." Lucy said as Levy looked like she's angry or something.
"Naruto, when did we meet again? I'm so old I forgot." Levy asked.
"We've known each other since we were little kids. Master Makarov was more than happy to have you onboard." Siegfried answered.
"Ok, so what is the one thing Master always talks about when he mentions Fairy Tail as a whole?" Levy asked suspiciously.
"To embrace the Will of Fire." Siegfried said as if it were trivial.
(Naruto OST - Avenger)
Levy stopped in her tracks and pulled out her arm out, "You're not Naruto!" she claimed.
"Levy?" Lucy asked.
"Little sister, do as your older brother says and follow me." Siegfried said demandingly.
"You're not my brother! Naruto is still in his coma! He would never call Master Makarov by his name or title and the Will of Fire was part of a speech he gave! Who are you!?" Levy demanded.
Siegfried growled as purple and black flames surrounded him, "You will bring Siegfried to me!" the sentient ordered as he tried to reach for Levy and Lucy.
"Stay away from us!" Levy demanded as the impersonator tried to approach her.
"Be still and be prepared to join the other souls!" he said as the whole world became a single platform surrounded by something out of a science fiction magazine. A moment later, the fake Siegfried turned into Nightmare, "Siegfried is my sacrifice and you will bring him to me!" he yelled.
"Levy stand back! That's the same monster that fought Gajeel at Phantom Lord!" Lucy said as she stood in front of Levy.
"Lucy you've seen this creature before?" Levy asked only to be interrupted by another figure.
In front of Lucy and Levy stood a short pink haired girl with a large horn sticking out of her head.
"Aries?" Lucy asked as the hair color and accessory confused her for the moment.
"Elysium!" Nightmare growled.
"Time to go you two!" Elysium said as she grabbed both girls and disappeared in a flash of light.
Thus leaving the wild animal shrieking before it transformed into a flaming skeleton.
"I WILL NOT BE DENIED! NOT BY ELYSIUM! NOT BY THE HUMANS! NOT BY THE AZURE KNIGHT!" Inferno yelled as it's screams could only be heard within the reaches of the Astral Chaos.
TO BE CONTINUED...