Kakashi's Apartment: Midday…
Kakashi had stepped out to gather everything he needed to make his favorite foods considering Cana had expressed interest in trying them. Just in case they weren't to Cana's liking, he had acquired recipes for more common soups of Magnolia. He also bought some wine.
When he entered his apartment, Natsu, Happy, and Romeo were in his living room with the Dragon Slayer waving. "Yo Kakashi!" He sniffed the air. "Oh, you got some good smelling stuff while you were out. What are you making?"
Honestly, this was starting to not phase the former Shinobi as he sat the bags on the table and got to work arranging everything. "If you must know, I am preparing a meal for Cana and me tonight as we will be having our first date here."
That seemed to shock Romeo and Happy since they didn't think the guy was interested in that.
"Huh, you and Cana are goin' on a date?" Natsu asked with a quirked brow.
"That is what I asked her." Kakashi replied.
"Okay, then I've got one question." Natsu stated.
"Shoot." Kakashi stated.
"What's a date?" Natsu inquired seriously.
At this, Happy and Romeo fell on the floor while Kakashi turned to look at the teenager with shock. Sure, the Dragon Slayer didn't seem to express interest in romance, but he had hoped someone would teach him the bare minimum.
"Natsu, you have to be kidding!" Happy exclaimed.
"Yeah!" Romeo nodded. "I'm younger than you, and even I know what a date is!"
"W-What's with those reactions?" Natsu asked defensively.
"Natsu, do you seriously not know what a date is?" Kakashi asked.
"Will you just tell me already!" Natsu shouted.
"A date is when two people who really like each other do things with one another, so they can enjoy each other's company without anyone else around." Happy explained.
"Oh, like when Happy and I go on missions?" Natsu asked.
"Natsu! Are you planning on one day marrying Happy!?" Romeo asked in disbelief.
"You mean like a mate?" Natsu questioned. "Ew, Happy and I are just bros."
"No complaints there." Happy commented.
Kakashi really needed to clear this up. He didn't know when and/or if the Dragon Slayer would ever become interested in anyone romantically, but it was still a concern.
"Natsu, think of it this way." Kakashi stated. "When two people are going out together, they're basically testing to see if they like each other enough to one day get married. In your terms, testing if they'll make a good mate."
"Oh, that's a date." It suddenly clicked for Natsu. "Hey, I totally knew what that was!" He beamed. "I just didn't know what it was called."
"What a relief." Romeo sighed. "I was worried there for a second."
"Aye." Happy agreed.
Kakashi sighed while shaking his head. "I'm still kind of worried about him."
"Shut up!" Natsu shouted angrily.
"Anyway, as riveting as this conversation has been, there is much I must prepare." Kakashi approached them while letting a small portion of his killer intent slip. "I would like to be alone. Of course, you can stay, but then you'll be arriving at the guild, tied up, for a week."
All three of them were immediately scared into leaving.
"Read you loud and clear Kakashi." Natsu stated.
"Aye!" Happy chirped.
Romeo chuckled. "See you later."
They sped out the door and Kakashi closed it. He wasn't certain how effective that would be, but at least he now had a way to get them out when needed. For now, the Copy Mage set about preparing everything.
Evening…
Kakashi had put all his years of cooking for himself to work in prepping dinner that night. Everything turned out right, and he was just running through a mental check list when he heard someone knocking at his door. Kakashi opened the door, and he was stunned.
Sure, Cana wasn't as exposed as usual, but she still looked rather beautiful. She wore a pair of black pants, a dark blue tank top, and a pair of white, moderately heeled shoes. It may be different from the look he grew used to, but Cana still looked rather good in it.
"Hello Cana. You look wonderful." Kakashi stepped aside. "Please, come in."
"Thank you, Kakashi." Cana stepped inside and could smell the food on the air while noticing that the space was decorated minimally. "So, this is the apartment Mira referred you to. It's pretty nice."
"It serves me well." Kakashi walked up to her. "Especially with Natsu, Romeo, and Happy dropping by rather often."
"I see." Cana looked at her clothes. "You really think what I'm wearing is alright?"
"Well, you look good in what your normally wear, but I can say the same for your current outfit." Kakashi nodded. "If you wish to go change, I wouldn't mind."
"Oh no, I was simply curious." Cana stated quickly. "It honestly makes me happy you like this outfit. I just thought it was a little weird for you."
"No, not at all." Kakashi assured. "You look as radiant as ever."
Cana's face heated up as Kakashi had just confirmed he found her attractive even normally.
She regained her composure. "Well, I am glad you think that way."
"Anyway, should we have a seat?" Kakashi offered.
"Of course." Cana stated.
They walked over to the table, and Kakashi pulled out her chair. Cana was certainly flattered and took her seat allowing him to push her in.
Kakashi then moved to his seat and began serving her. "I recalled you expressed some interest in trying some eggplant-mixed miso soup, so I made that along with another favorite of mine known as salt-boiled saury." He set a serving of each before her and went about getting his own.
"Of course, I want you to be honest if you do not like them as I also have the more common soups of Magnolia prepared." He set his servings down before pouring some wine in a couple of glasses. "Naturally, I have some alcohol here as well."
"He really is taking this seriously." Cana thought impressed that he was thinking of her and not pressuring her into liking his foods. "Although, this really does smell great."
"Of course, one of the advantages of eating here is that you can have as much as you'd like." Kakashi sat down. "Understandably, this may not be the ideal first date, so we can always go out if you…"
Cana ate a bit of everything before speaking up. "Kakashi, this is perfect, so please stop fretting."
Kakashi gave her a small smile. "Whatever the lady wants."
They started eating. This date was just getting started, but Kakashi was turning out to be a great one. Well, she did have her hopes about him, but she never imagined how much of a gentleman Kakashi could be.
"If you have anything in particular you wish to ask me, feel free." Kakashi offered. "I will answer whatever you desire to know… within reason."
"Well, Minato told us about you, but he didn't really go in depth." Cana stated. "What is your family like?"
"Well before I was an adult, I was rather alone in that department." Kakashi replied.
"O-Oh, I'm sorry for asking such a question." Cana immediately stated.
"Oh no, it is quite alright." Kakashi smiled. "I'm proud of where I come from, and the world of the Shinobi is a dangerous one. My mother passed away shortly after giving birth to me, and I spent most of my formative years with my father.
I won't go to in depth with him at this time as I would not want to ruin the evening, but I will say there was a time when I had no respect for the man he was. Looking back on what he did, I can say he was a Shinobi I could be proud of."
"I'm relieved you didn't hate me asking that." Cana stated. "I-I had thought for a second that you somehow didn't feel comfortable answering me."
"As I said, I will answer anything you wish… within reason." Kakashi gave her a comforting smile. "I've come to terms with what my past is, so don't worry about it."
"What about anyone else important in your life?" Cana questioned. "Friends or those students you spoke of."
"Well, I was on good terms with many Shinobi." Kakashi replied. "Some people that come to mind are Asuma and Kurenai. When I trained my first team, they were Sensei of fresh Genin as well. They were loyal comrades and some of the best choices to be Sensei.
Then, there was Guy who trained a squad one year our squad's seniors. He was also my rival and best friend once Obito Uchiha was perceived dead. He managed to surpass me in the end and almost ended the Fourth Shinobi War himself."
"He sounds impressive." Cana commented.
Beyond them, there was my team." Kakashi smiled fondly. "Sasuke was the best young fighter in the Hidden Leaf, Sakura was our sharpest mind, and our Number 1 Hyperactive Knuckle Head, Naruto. Big problems arose, but last I saw, they were on the right track in the end."
Cana nodded in understanding. "So, is there anything you'd like to ask me?"
"Well, we've been talking about where I come from, so I suppose I'd like to know what your story is." Kakashi stated.
"H-Huh?" Cana uttered in surprise. "You really want to know?"
"I can't say I'm not curious." Kakashi stated. "Especially after our stroll shortly before I left for Galuna Island. Naturally, you made it apparent it's not easy for you to talk about, so if you don't wish to share, you don't have to."
"No." Cana looked down. "I-I want to tell you, but you have to promise that what I'm about to tell you stays between us, okay?"
"Shinobi are rather good at keeping secrets." Kakashi nodded. "I won't reveal a word unless you say it's alright."
"On a rainy day, roughly twelve years ago, my mother passed away." Cana began. "When her will was read, I learned my father was still alive, and he's a Fairy Tail Wizard. At the time, all I knew was that his name was Gildarts Clive."
"The ace of Fairy Tail is her father." Kakashi was shocked, yet he concealed it.
"My mother must have never kept contact with him because he didn't recognize me." Cana continued. "No one knew how long he'd be gone, so I constantly came back to the guild waiting for him until joining up. Sometimes, my father wouldn't come back for months.
When he did, he'd end up taking another job. The one thing I couldn't say eventually became a crushing weight I couldn't ignore. I learned how to read fortune telling cards, so I could predict when he'd return. The guild members and Master Makarov were so supportive.
They took note of my talent with fortunes and helped me learn the magic I use today. Truthfully, I took to it like a fish to water. I hoped mastering it would bring me closer to him, but it didn't. My father is the guild's best wizard. He was on a pedestal, and everyone basked in his radiance.
I ended up buried beneath them. Out of sight and out of mind. Years went by, yet I still couldn't tell him who I was. After all this time, I started to fear telling him. What if he rejected me? What if I wasn't good enough? Then, the candidates for that year's S Class Trials were announced.
I was chosen and decided I'd tell my father the truth when I became S Class like him. Four years in a row, I've only known defeat. Laxus, Mystogan, Erza, and Mira surpassed me. I'm nothing but a failure. That's why the next S Class Trial will be my last. If I fail, I'll leave for good."
"I understand." Kakashi nodded. "I won't go into all the details, but, for a brief time, I got to talk to my father one last time. While he's now free to rest, I would give anything to speak with him again. I'm not going to say your fears are unfounded. Only that you should reconsider.
Even if you won't, as I said, I was an Elite Jonin of the village, and I'm growing stronger every day." He looked at Cana. "What I'm saying is, how about we become training partners? Then, when the time comes, if we can, let's partner up for the trials."
"You really want to help me?" Cana asked in shock.
"Yeah." Kakashi stated. "I've gotten to know you just as well as my team, and Fairy Tail wouldn't be the same without you. In that sense, I do want to help you, but it is also selfishness on my part. Let me help you."
The honesty and compassion for her brought tears of joy to Cana's eyes.
"Are you okay, Cana?" Kakashi asked concerned.
"Of course, I'm okay." Cana wiped her eyes. "I'm simply happy you care enough to offer your help. I'd love to have it."
Magnolia Streets, Night…
The pair had finished their dinner in a rather comfortable silence before Cana decided it was time to leave and Kakashi came with to at least walk her near Fairy Hills. They agreed it was best he didn't get to close considering quite a few girls wouldn't take kindly to it.
Cana spoke up. "Kakashi, I'm sorry if I ended up ruining this date." She looked at him. "I'll understand if you want to retract your earlier offer and never want to see me like this again."
"Cana, don't be ridiculous." Kakashi stated surprising her. "I'm honestly honored you decided to confide the truth in me. Both of us have our past, and that's something we should understand. Honestly, I wouldn't mind doing this again?"
"You really mean it?" Cana asked. "Does this mean you want to be boyfriend and girlfriend?"
Kakashi stopped them. "Cana, can I show you my answer rather than saying it."
Cana could guess what he'd do, and she'd be lying is she said she didn't want it. "Whatever you have in mind, do it."
Kakashi closed the distance between them and leaned in before kissing her conveying the affection he was feeling for this Card Mage. Eventually, they had to pull apart. Cana was blushing as they both looked into each other's eyes.
"Cana, I'm not sure where we'll end up, but I do know that I want to start this journey with you." Kakashi stated. "So, I want to be your boyfriend."
"K-Kakashi." Cana couldn't believe this was happening, but she couldn't be dreaming. "Thank you."
Near Fairy Hills
Fairy Hills could be seen in the distance, and the nearby path would take Cana safely there.
"I had a good time Kakashi." Cana was beaming.
"It was a very nice evening." Kakashi gave her a small smile. "With practically everything in the open, next time should be even better."
The Card Mage still couldn't believe Kakashi was willing to give her more dates. Even if he honestly said what she did was fine, it was simply hard to believe. Hey, she wasn't going to keep questioning him on it.
"Before I leave, there is something I should give you." Kakashi stated.
He gave her another kiss before pulling back leaving Cana dazed. "W-Well, see you tomorrow Kakashi."
Kakashi nodded. "Yeah, see you tomorrow."
He walked away and Cana watched until he was gone. Once she was alone, the Card Mage made her way over to Fairy Hills feeling like she was on cloud 9. Kakashi couldn't help but smile at how tonight turned out. Perhaps, this was the happiness Obito hoped he'd achieve.
Fairy Hills: Cana's Room
The Card Mage sat near her window staring at the clear night with a smile which radiated joy. "This will always be one of my best memories."
This evening with Kakashi may not have gone as she expected, but it turned into so much more. It's not like she hadn't kissed anyone before, but that kiss she shared with Kakashi was unlike all those other times.
Just thinking about it, and that second kiss they shared, made her heartbeat faster and her face heat up. It's not like she didn't ever feel happy with Fairy Tail. In fact, she loved the guild, but this evening with Kakashi was one of the few truly joyful memories she had.
"Kakashi, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for tonight." Cana smiled. "Hopefully, there are many great times ahead for you and I."
Magnolia Streets: Days Later…
The same group of Fairy Tail Wizards who had originally set out to defeat Eisenwald decided to go on a job request together. This time it had been a simple job Romeo had intended to do by himself.
"Well, that was an awesome job, eh?" Natsu reasoned.
"The client sure seemed to think so." Happy commented.
"Face it, you're just lucky I decided to come along." Gray said calmly.
"We're lucky you 'begged' to come with us?" Natsu questioned. "How do ya figure?"
"Because you're about as helpful as one of Erza's suitcases." Gray replied.
"That's a rough insult to Natsu, Gray." Kakashi commented. "I'd say he's far more helpful than Erza's suitcases."
"Are you insinuating my suitcases are useless?" Erza questioned defensively. "I'll have you know I pack everything needed to complete a job request."
"I've been on enough quests to understand they're nearly identical to missions assigned back in the Elemental Countries." Kakashi stated. "Notice how I get by with a single backpack Erza."
"It's never hindered me before." Erza countered.
This sparked an argument between Kakashi and Erza, while Gray and Natsu were butting heads, and Happy contently sat back watching this all with a smile. The last member of their group opted to point something out.
"Hey, uh guys." Romeo spoke up. "Look, it's not that I didn't appreciate how willing you were to help, but when I took this job, I was originally intending to do it alone."
"Romeo, come on." Natsu declared. "We're Fairy Tail's strongest team, so we got to stick together no matter what."
"Aye sir!" Happy chirped
"Don't you forget it." Gray added.
"Indeed." Erza said.
"As the old saying goes, a village of one is no village at all." Kakashi stated.
Romeo could help but smile at such strong wizards considering him part of this team. Sure, he was on a team with Natsu and Kakashi, but this was two extra, high level mages right here.
"Well, if we're a team, don't you think we need a team name?" Romeo questioned.
The group adopted an expression of thought at his question. After a short while, their Dragon Slayer snapped his fingers directing all eyes to him before he spoke.
"I've got it!" Natsu declared. "Kakashi and I were technically the start of this, so how about Team Kakashi Natsu?"
Kakashi decided to speak up. "From my experience, we usually named our teams after the leader or by number when it comes to a Genin team. I say we take that, Natsu's idea, and the naming conventions of this world to create a name. How about Team Silver Flame?"
"Well, it beats Kakashi Natsu." Gray stated. "Even if it doesn't represent us all, I will concede you two were technically the first members of this team."
"Silver Flame?" Romeo smiled. "It sounds cool like Shadow Gear."
"That does roll off the tongue better." Natsu admitted.
"Aye!" Happy agreed.
"It should serve us well." Erza agreed.
As they walked through the mildly populated streets that led towards the guildhall, people were staring at them and whispering in hushed tones. It didn't seem to be the usual, positive comments they had to say about the guild.
"Why is everyone staring at us?" Natsu wondered aloud.
"Considering they know you and I have good ears; I'm not really picking anything up." Kakashi stated.
Maybe it's your hair colors?" Happy offered. "I mean, silver and pink aren't that common,"
"I don't think…" Erza trailed off.
The whole group could now see the guildhall's outline in the distance, and it looked like there were large, metal beams sticking out of it.
"W-What the hell?" Gray muttered.
"The guildhall…" Natsu trailed off in shock.
"We must hurry back at once!" Erza exclaimed.
She was already running, and the others followed.
Fairy Tail Guildhall
"What happened?" Gray questioned in disbelief.
Before their eyes laid the guildhall battered and desecrated. Even Kakashi couldn't ignore this which was odd given the Leaf had rebuilt after Pain, but this was different from a village. This was a home for people who didn't have one. Even those who did still called this home.
"Someone did this to our guild!" Natsu growled.
Natsu was smarter than most gave him credit for. He knew this wasn't an accident of any kind. There was clear, malicious intent behind this and even a blind person could see it.
"Who would do such a thing?" Erza questioned.
"Clearly someone who doesn't like living." Gray growled.
Mira had come up behind them. "It was Phantom."
"Phantom did this?!" Natsu inquired angrily.
"We couldn't do anything to stop them." Mira continued as tears came to her eyes. "They got us good."
"It's alright Mira." Gray was immediately by her side holding her. "Whoever did this will pay."
"Thank you, Gray." Mira stated.
"Look, I don't like that this happened any more than you guys, but this world's laws operate differently." Kakashi looked to the building. "An attack like this, back in the Elemental Countries, would have been answered swiftly, but I'm not sure that can happen now."
"What do you mean?" Natsu questioned. "These guys attacked us."
"No, Kakashi's right." Mira had pulled away from Gray and started walking. "Just come with me and I'll explain along the way."
Guildhall's Basement
Romeo shook his head. "I can't believe we were attacked by a legal guild."
Mira informed them that the guild known as Phantom Lord, or at least someone affiliated with it, was responsible for the destruction. The only solace was that no one was hurt despite the substantial damage. At this point, the number of perpetrators was unknown.
Kakashi had read that the two guilds were at odds mostly over the title of Fiore's strongest guild. Fairy Tail was their equal in terms of strength, but many would say they were stronger. This reminded Kakashi of what provoked the Sand to unite with the Sound and attack the Leaf.
"We've never been on the best terms with those Phantom Jerks but come on." Jet declared.
"Want to teach them a lesson?" Droy asked.
"Back off guys." Levy stated. "Don't you think we're in enough trouble already?"
Lucy sighed. "Still, I'm not sure this is all they will do."
The newly dubbed Team Silver Flame approached Makarov who was drunk. "Sup kids!"
"Why is everyone just sitting around doing nothing!?" Natsu exclaimed angrily.
The master seemed to ignore him. "How'd it go, Romeo? Did you finish the job like a good boy?"
"I-I guess…" Romeo replied at a complete loss.
"Master, do you understand the gravity of the situation?" Erza questioned.
"What're ya getting so worked up about?" Makarov downed some more alcohol. "I mean, it's not the end of the world.
"What?" Natsu/Gray growled simultaneously.
"If ya ask me, it goes to show how cowardly those dunderheads at Phantom really are. They hit us when no one was here." Makarov added.
"Does that really make a difference?" Kageyama had walked over. "They attacked the guildhall and beat the living hell out of it. I know it's not my decision, and I've come to respect your authority; however, I want to know if you really think letting them get away is best?"
Most everyone picked up on the tone of the former Dark Wizard as well as the general look in his eyes. From Kage's perspective, he wasn't trying to give off the intent to enter conflict with the master. He just needed to understand the guy's feelings.
Makarov flashed him a drunken smile. "I do."
Kage studied the old master for a solid minute before sighing. "I admit I'm not as up to date on how legal guilds operate, so since you genuinely think we shouldn't attack them, I'll back down."
Kage could tell this isn't what the master wanted, but the look in the old man's eyes said it all. The guildhall was precious, but it wasn't enough. Taking this straight to Phantom Lord would be too costly given the circumstances.
Still, this had become Kage's guild. Sure, there were people lukewarm to him, but he was steadily proving himself every day. If this happens again, he wouldn't care about the master's ruling. Kage would act as the Dark Wizard he was and drag that bastard back here himself.
Natsu destroyed a nearby wooden crate in anger. "Well, I still don't understand!" He looked to the master. "How can you be fine with this!?"
"I don't wish to discuss this anymore." Makarov stated childishly. "Job request will be handled down here until the upstairs is repaired."
"You… you…" Natsu began.
Erza put a hand on his shoulder. "Natsu, if the master wishes for us not to retaliate, we must respect it."
The Dragon Slayer released a slight grunt before angrily storming over to a remote corner of the basement to calm down. That reaction was perfectly understandable given who Natsu was. He was passionate about the things he cared about.
Outside Kakashi's Apartment: Night…
"What happened to the guildhall isn't a good sign." Kakashi thought. "Sure, Phantom Lord could stop at the destruction, but I don't think that's where it'll end." He opened the door only to see his team had made themselves at home. "Nope, not even this surprises me."
He walked in and closed the door.
"This is a pretty nice apartment." Erza commented.
"Yeah, it sure it." Kakashi sighed as he joined them. "Look, I can wager a guess as to why you're here, but my room is mine alone. I'll warn all of you, Erza included, that I will throw you out if you're in there when I intend to sleep."
"Hm, duly noted." Erza stated rather calmly. "Why do you think we're here?"
She seemed rather curious if Kakashi picked up on their reasoning.
"The guild was attacked last night, so it's not a stretch to assume enemy Wizards may still be milling about." Kakashi replied. "No matter the strength of the Wizard, there is safety in numbers. If I were to wager a guess, I'd say you weren't the only ones with this idea."
"Hm, you are quite astute Kakashi." Erza sipped some tea. "With all of us here, we can better relax rather than constantly being on guard."
"This is no time to relax." Natsu commented frustrated.
"Natsu, remember the last time you disobeyed gramps." Romeo reminded. "Next time, I don't think he'll go with buckets and keeping you from taking jobs."
"Aye!" Happy chirped.
Natsu grumbled to himself as he crossed his arms.
"Also, if you don't want to be kicked out for stinking, all of you will be taking baths or showers." Kakashi let his killer intent do some of the work. "That's not up for discussion."
Erza was rather calm as she sipped some tea. "I will be sure to take either of those as a respectable house guest."
Gray, Romeo. Natsu, and Happy immediately flinched away from him before running to the bathroom in quick succession.
Gray got there first and slammed the door. "We're working on it!"
"Hm, I didn't take you for one to use intimidation much like myself." Erza commented.
"Back in the Elemental Countries, I still used it." Kakashi shrugged. "It's just become far more frequent here in getting certain teammates to heed my words."
The Copy Mage then poured himself a cup of tea.
Magnolia Streets
Team Shadow Gear was on their way to Lucy's place to bed down together like most of the other Wizards were doing in other places.
"Are you sure this is okay?" Droy asked. "We wouldn't want to be a bother."
"Not to mention, you and Levy would probably be safer in Fairy Hills with Laki and the others." Jet added. "Safety in numbers and all that."
"I wouldn't have offered if I weren't fine with it." Lucy stated. "No offense to the others, but I do trust you three the most."
"Yeah, no way we should split up our team at a time like this." Levy stated.
Two young men stood on the nearby roof. The first was tall and muscular with long, spiky black hair. He has red eyes with slitted dark pupils and no visible eyebrows. He wore a shabby, black, sleeveless tunic, studded belt around his waist and loose, beige pants.
The second had fair skin, green eyes, and short auburn hair. He lacks distinctive pupils or eyebrows. Another version of him had black rings around his eyes and the kanji for love on his forehead, but this one lacked those features.
He wore a long-sleeved crimson coat, full-length dark trousers, a grey vest held in place by a single strap over his left shoulder, and two buckled belts which he also uses to carry a large gourd made of sand and full of sand.
"I am uncertain if this is a wise course of action." The auburn-haired guy stated. "Should we really be starting war with Fairy Tail?"
"Are you getting cold feet Gaara." The black-haired guy asked sternly. "Master Jose has always questioned your loyalty."
"Phantom Lord is my guild, and if this is the path it treads, I will follow." Gaara crossed his arms. "Still, it is precisely my loyalty that provokes such questions, Gajeel. The Magic Council will not look favorably on us once they catch wind of this."
"That's precisely why we'll just have to win." Gajeel smirked. "That so called council wouldn't dream of disbanding us once we're the top guild. Remember, we're good at eliminating Dark Guilds, and losing what will be the strongest guild in Fiore wouldn't do them any good."
"If that is what the master believes, then I shall believe in him." Gaara closed his eyes. "I'm going to move into position."
"Yeah, you do that." Gajeel then smirked once he was gone. "This is going to be fun."
Gajeel lept down and charged Team Shadow Gear who only just noticed him. There wasn't any time for the group to even react, but before Gajeel could reach them, a kunai landed in between them. Minato appeared a second later with a sphere of magic in hand.
"Rasengan!" Minato slammed the sphere into Gajeel's chest sending him spiraling into a nearby building. "I've been waiting for one of you to make a move against my guildmates." He started walking towards the recovering wizard. "As long as I'm here, you aren't getting them this easy."
Team Shadow Gear were glad to see Minato. If he hadn't come along… they didn't want to think of what could have happened.
"You realize this means war, right?" Gajeel laughed. "I don't think your master will be pleased with the fact that you instigated it."
"Right, like you were just minding your own business." Minato stated. "Phantom Lord has always been pushing Fairy Tail. Trying to get them to start this war, but you had to start this. In the end, I suppose you'll get the reaction you wanted from our master.
Still, your guild will be the one at fault. When Fairy Tail ends this conflict, and the Council comes to see what happened between us, the evidence will show that. All you've done is start a war which will end with Phantom Lords disbandment."
"We'll just have to see how things go." Gajeel smirked. "That said, did you honestly think I came alone?"
"Sand Devil's Rage!" Gaara called out.
Minato kept his gaze on Gajeel, but Shadow Gear turned to see Kageyama flying off the roof of a building. "Shadow Pull!"
Not even a second latter, Gaara had been pulled toward Kageyama who immediately grabbed him and turned him towards the ground before they crashed down.
"Did you think I came alone?" Minato returned.
Kage and Gaara stood and faced off with each other; however, neither of them moved. They were presumably waiting for Minato and/or Gajeel, respectively, to make the call.
"You got what you want." Minato declared firmly. "Fairy Tail will be paying Phantom Lord a visit, so I suggest you take this kindness I'm extending. Leave now…" His eyes turned into that of a toad, and he gained the markings under his eyes. "… or you fight six on two."
Since he came to Earth Land, it hadn't taken Minato long to figure out that clones were a convenient way to access Sage Mode. He was glad to still have it in this world to.
Gajeel smirked. "I like those…"
Minato seemed to vanish from his sights only to appear behind Gajeel before punching him into the ground. "Kage, step aside." The shadow user did as he was told, and Minato kicked the opposing wizard to Gaara who caught him. "You want to keep trying?"
"Gaara, don't you dare." Gajeel grunted out.
"We're not retreating Gajeel." Despite his reluctance to do this, Gaara was serious in his loyalty to the guild, so he glared at Minato. "We're simply regrouping to better welcome our soon to be guest. Sand Carpet!"
Dark brown said appeared beneath Gaara lifting him and Gajeel into the air. Everyone there watched as the Wizards vanished from sight.
Kakashi's Apartment
Everyone that needed it took a shower before reconvening back at Kakashi's table.
"Hey Erza, would you mind answering a question for me?" Kakashi inquired.
"You may ask away." Erza replied.
"I've read that Phantom Lord is rather concerned with being the best guild in Fiore, but I don't see that as a logical reason to attack Fairy Tail. Considering I've only spent months here, I wanted to know if you had any ideas."
"I can't say I really know the answer. You haven't experienced it, but we have had our fair share of scuffles with them in the past. Admittedly it's never been anything of this magnitude." Erza replied.
"If gramps wasn't so scarred of them, we could wipe out those punks for good." Natsu griped.
"Come on, you know the master isn't afraid of them Natsu. He's one of the Ten Wizard Saints, remember?" Gray questioned.
"The Wizard Saints are the ten strongest wizards on Fiore, right?" Romeo asked.
"That's right." Gray nodded. "Gramps may not rank the highest, but they're usually just as strong as each other. Where it really gets up there is the top four."
"That just means he's being even more spineless than I thought." Natsu sneered.
"Not at all, Natsu." Kakashi stated. "From what I read, Jose, Master of Phantom Lord, is one of the Ten Wizard Saints as well."
"Not to mention, the strength of their guild rivals ours." Erza stated. "Their master is only one piece of why I say that. They have an elite group of S Class known as the Element Four. Though, they're biggest threats are Black Steel Gajeel, Desert Wave Gaara, and Sand God Minoru."
"Pardon my interruption, but has this Gaara or Minoru ever mentioned hailing from the Elemental Countries?" Kakashi asked.
"That may be where they were originally from, but their records prove they were born in a rather large desert city." Erza replied. "Gaara uses Sand Devil Slayer Magic, Minoru uses Sand God Slayer Magic, and Gajeel uses Iron Dragon Slayer Magic."
"Figures Those first two would learn a magic similar to what they had in the Elemental Countries." Kakashi stated.
"Did you know Gaara and Minoru Kakashi?" Happy asked.
"I didn't know Minoru, but he was the Third Kazekage. The Sand Village called him their strongest Kazekage. He developed the ability to manipulate sand ability from a Jinchuriki much in the same way Minato Sensei derived his Rasengan from a Tailed Beast Bomb.
As for Gaara, not as well as my student Naruto, but I can tell you he eventually became the Kazekage of his village." Kakashi replied. "He had a troubled upbringing but came out of it willing to give his life for those who shunned him. In fact, he did lose it before coming back."
"In the end, we can't go to war with Phantom over something like this because the risk would be far too great. Should anything else happen, we will give it special consideration. Until then, the master's hands are tied." Erza stated.
Near Fairy Hills
Elfman had escorted Cana to as close as he could get to Fairy Hills. She was his teammate after all, so it was only right even if Kakashi had made the offer himself. After ensuring she was home safely, he started walking back towards his home where Mira was with Alzack and Bisca.
They had offered to accompany him, but there was no way he'd leave his sister unprotected. Sure, feeling her magic a couple nights ago was something, but that same feeling hadn't returned since that night. Yeah, no chancing it.
Suddenly, Elfman felt a weight on his back only to immediately relax when he heard a familiar voice. "So, this is what it's like to get a piggyback ride from someone as tall as you are Elfman."
A lean man of average height with shaved black hair and turquoise eyes had suddenly appeared on Elfman's back. He wore a pinstriped jacket with distinctive loose brown arm warmers, simple black pants, and white shoes.
"Ah, it's just you Mest." Elfman picked the guy up and sat him down. "You really shouldn't do something like this with how tense Magnolia's become." He looked at the guy. "Do you even know what's happening?"
"Huh, oh yeah that is why I came out here." Mest remembered. "I stopped by your place to say hi only to be informed of what Phantom Lord's done. Mira asked me to find you as she didn't like the thought of you being out here alone."
"That sounds like big sis, but you honestly should have stayed with her as extra protection." Elfman declared. "I'm a real man who can take care of myself."
"I had to do it." Mest declared drawing Elfman's attention to a tree. "I had to know what it felt like to be a bird without wings."
A tall man with a fair complexion stood on the tallest tree in the area watching these Wizards. He had short, messy dark-blue hair and narrow yellow eyes. He wore a black, sleeveless shirt with matching pants, and earth brown cloak.
The guy jumped from the tree while holding out his hands. "Sand God's Tornado!"
A massive tornado of black sand whirled around the two mages.
Magnolia: Southgate Park: Morning…
Kakashi, Gray, Natsu, Erza, Romeo, and Happy stood ahead of most of their guild members and before a large tree. They were currently rendered speechless out of rage, sadness, or disbelief as two members of Fairy Tail were hanging from a tree. Their bodies were battered and beaten.
They were Elfman and Mest. Kakashi didn't know that last guy, but he overheard people talking about him. Apparently, the guy was Mystogan's apprentice, and while he was odd, he was as well liked as anyone else within the guild.
The most glaring thing about them was their crucified appearance as they were held up by black sand bindings. The Phantom Lord insignia had been tattooed onto both their torsos. Seeing this, Kakashi felt genuine rage despite all he's seen in his time.
"Elfman and Mest…" Romeo was practically on the verge of tears. "…Elfman got better. His power returned and Mest is Mystogan's apprentice. They shouldn't be up there."
Natsu was particularly enraged, so Gray put a hand on the kid's shoulder to steady him.
"Phantom Lord did this…" The Dragon Slayer growled.
Immediately after this was said, the master himself began to walk towards the tree in his Wizard Saint attire. Despite his usual, carefree nature, an aura of rage and anger exuded from his being.
"Master." Erza uttered in a tone of disbelief, unable to take her eyes off her comrades.
"I can deal with our guild's headquarters being trashed, but I will not tolerate harm coming to my children without taking revenge!" Makarov roared angrily while snapping the wooden staff. "Phantom Lord attacked my children twice last night, and I will not stand for it!"
"Elfman…" A voice no one there wanted to hear spoke up and they turned to see Mira staring at her brother in shock as tears came to her eyes. "Elfman." Her gaze fixated on the Phantom Lord insignia. "Elfman!"
"Mira." Gray was immediately in front of her. "Mira, it'll be okay. We're going to…"
Suddenly, every wizard there could feel an overwhelmingly strong magic coming from Mira. For most of them, this was familiar. This was Mira's magic. Currently, Mira wasn't hearing anything as her mind showed her images of Lisanna's death.
Mira screamed as tears streamed down her face while Gray gently put his hands on her arms. "Mira, we don't know if your body is ready for this. Calm down…"
Kakashi grabbed Gray and pulled him back as a huge, black magic circle appeared above her. This was reminding him of when Naruto would lose control. After hearing how he hurt Sakura, unintentionally, when they went after Orochimaru, he wouldn't let that happen to Gray.
"I know you want to help her Gray but stay back to assess the situation!" Kakashi yelled. "We don't know what this stimulus will do to her upon a transformation!"
"Mira." Gray thought worriedly.
"Get everyone back now!" Makarov shouted. "This much magical build up is dangerous!"
All the wizards immediately moved back while watching on in shock as Mira glowed with a golden light. It then turned pitch black before dissipating to reveal Mira in her Satan Soul form.
A full-on crater had formed from Mira's initial release, and there was a cold expression on her face. "Phantom Lord."
The model then flew off in the direction of Oak Town. Everyone couldn't help but look after her retreating form in awe. Mira did have the right idea, and it's not like Fairy Tail could leave Mira to fight Phantom Lord.
Mira: Mira essentially had her power restored the same way she did in canon with a little help from the prior chapter. In canon, it was Freed continuing to hurt Elfman beyond the point he could not fight back and then threatening to kill him. Here, we had last chapter which established her power is still within her followed by seeing her brother in this injured state.
Minato & Kage's Interference: I could have had Shadow Gear take the same L as canon, but there are more characters that are capable of doing something. At the same time, it would be illogical to assume they could protect everyone that night hence why Elfman and Mest were the ones to take the L here.
Mest Gryder: A common criticism levied against him is that he was barely set up, so I figured now was a good time to introduce him. As for his role in canon, I've also read there were a considerable amount of varying ideas the author had in mind, so maybe I'll use one of those instead of his canon story. We'll see about that. Either way, he'll been introduced now.