I have been informed that Cowboy Bebop has a Netflix adaptation that is coming out next month...oh dear.
Note: You do not need to read this fic to understand Earthland's Gamer, this does not need to be read to follow along with the main story.
"Into your houses! All of you! It's for your protection!"
The command was repeated once more as the sounds of marching troops echoed like the beating of a drum. The town of villagers tried to scramble out of their path, but some were simply tossed aside as a result.
"All those that seek to aid the guild will be condemned for treason!"
They traveled through the main road, not slowing down whatsoever, even when the path towards their destination steadily increased in altitude. Children playing outdoors were ordered home by their parents as they locked their doors, cutting themselves off from the outside world. Shops shut down completely, boarding up every window and entry point into their property as they could. The only light that illuminated the darkened night were streetlights as they were powered through technological means.
The rain proceeded to spill from the sky, as the thunderclouds seemed content with bashing against the armored men.
Their target was a small building on the outskirts of the town. It was a relatively short hike, met with no opposition as they pursued onwards.
The windows were boarded, while its front entrance had been shut tight with an array of chains. Through the small holes littered throughout its exterior, there wasn't any sort of light emitting from within.
"Hold your positions here, I will inform them of their crimes," The standing officer declared, prompting the soldiers to halt without a word.
The officer, known as Joshua, wore a grayish cloak that concealed most of his garments; bar the short sword, was given a speaker, and stepped forward in front of his troops.
"Due to the royal decree and newfound evidence, Lamia Scale has been deemed guilty of unauthorized use of magic. However, the king, kind as he is, will free you of those charges if handed over all magical items in your possession."
He waited for a rebuttal from the guild, but to no avail.
"We know you are there, hiding is futile."
Their small platoon remained patiently. Only the turbulence of a downpour pounding the dirt could be heard.
"It looks like they aren't saying anything, Mr. Joshua." A soldier remarked.
"Just like Blue Pegasus, you don't respond? Fine then."
Joshua lifted his hand, motioning to the soldiers, who simultaneously had unsheathed their weapons.
"In the name of King Faust, Lamia Scale is to be abolished from the kingdom."
He signaled to the troops while they began encircling the structure, denying any sort of escape to those who could be inside.
Joshua withdrew his blade, and along with several other men, began to shred aside the meager defenses of the guild's front door. The chains clattered as they were cut apart, falling to the ground in shambles. Pulling his leg back, the officer kicked down the door and unveiled the interior of the guild.
"Search the area, find anyo-''
He was compelled to cease his order, skirting to the right, and eluded an arrow that sunk directly into someone else's head, killing them immediately.
"Shields up!" Joshua bellows while the soldiers behind him follow his word, gradually progressing forward as more arrows rain down from above.
"Magic is meant to be used by everyone!" One of the guild members shouted, firing an arrow that bounced off the shields of the royal troops, "That fool of a king has no right to take it from us!"
"You ignora-"
"Ignore them, focus on the task at hand," Joshua muttered as they inched closer to the barricade that the guild had made for themselves, "Be ready to charge at a moment's notice."
Like the rainfall outside, Lamia Scale continued to shower the guildhall with arrows that killed some of the troops that undeviatingly advanced in defiance. They endured blow after blow onto their shields. Some were simply overwhelmed by the sheer number of people that emerged from the shadows. Clearly, they had planned this right from the beginning.
"On my signal," The officer said, as they deliberately encroached on the heart of the building, "Now!"
With permission to move in, they stormed ahead and launched their counterattack. The guild responded in kind, equipping their weapons in retaliation.
The result was brutal.
Lamia Scale moved like rampaging beasts in a corner, bulldozing their way into the troops, and blood began to splatter onto the guild's floor. Bodies dropped on both sides as they strived to annihilate the other.
Joshua parried a sword swing and used his blade to plunge it into the man's neck, letting him choke until his impending demise. He battled onward, slaying a multitude of enemies as his comrades fell all the same.
Some of the platoon stationed behind the guild had eventually joined the fray, clashing against the archers posted on the floor above. With them occupied, Joshua pushed his troops to advance, attempting to carve a pathway inwards.
Just then, a massive man with a profoundly muscular figure, distinguished by his bald head, a pair of oval-shaped black marks just above his black eyes, and by his absence of eyebrows, crashed through several of his men. He was covered in a densely crafted iron armor, with fur incorporated around his joints.
"Jura is here!" Someone shouted as the hulking man's axe evolved into a sword.
It was as if the world had slowed down for Joshua, watching the man immediately stampede his way towards him.
He swerved to the right, utilizing his more nimble body to evade attacks from the larger man. Jura attempted to strike him down, but Joshua guided the sword away with his own, allowing it to crash into the floor. The well-known Lamia Scale member sustained his relentless bombardment as the officer avoided becoming a smear on the ground.
"I will not permit you heathens to take away our rights," Jura avowed with disdain.
"With a bloodbath?!" Joshua openly scowled at the man in revulsion, "The king is seeking to preserve magic while we still can! There won't be anything left if you continue using it!"
He unconditionally detested when situations devolved into chaos, for he was an advocate of negotiations and agreements. But once again, just like the various guilds before them, they ignored the offer to cooperate for anything. Alternatively, opted to use magic without any regard for the populace, and forced the king's hand.
From what he's heard, the higher-ups had concocted some sort of device that let them produce magic, but required the masses to cease using it for their project to succeed.
The common individuals and groups had listened to the call. It was the various guilds' reluctance to adhere to that, which caused the dilemmas to arise.
Why can't they just be reasonable?
"Enough of your games," Jura scoffed, readjusting the sword in his grasp.
The officer only frowned as he watched him rush ahead once more.
Joshua went into a stance that he'd practically ingrained into his body, weaving around Jura's onslaught while striking the man at his most vulnerable.
He was reckless and a brute, but it's been made apparent that his stamina hasn't waned in the slightest. The constant swings were just as vicious as they were when the fight had initially started, while Joshua's own was steadily declining. The rest of his troops knew that if they were to try and assist him, they'd be flattened immediately.
Another stroke of Jura's blade forced him to lean back and narrowly elude being cleaved in two.
He couldn't parry whatsoever, as the Lamia Scale member had the clear strength advantage, coupled with what seemed like never-ending stamina, it'd be nigh impossible to try and match him head-on.
Joshua knew he was a good fighter, but he wasn't as talented as the little Knightwalker was. Everyone knew she'd grow up to be a monster, and that was evident. He was just a soldier, a fairly good one, but a soldier nonetheless.
Jura raised his sword again as it turned back into an axe. This time, connecting with Joshua's shield, shattering it in the officer's grip, forcing him to let it go.
"You're growing weary," The bulky man noted while smirking, "Maybe you should rest."
A few troops charged at him, not wanting to stand by while their leader was being pushed to exhaustion. Jura glanced over at them, grinning as he did so.
"Appetizers."
Their valiant effort to support was cut short, quite literally in fact, as it didn't take long for them to be mercilessly dissected. One of them lunged first, but Jura's axe slammed into his throat, letting blood spew out every time they tried to breathe. The blood scattered onto another's face, blinding them, and providing the eyebrowless man with an opportunity to sink his weapon into their head.
Joshua moved anew, his body ached with each step, but the cries of his men compelled him to push onward.
He ducked under a swing and used the opening to thrust his blade into Jura's stomach, who wailed in agony.
The officer snarled, twisting his sword as it embedded itself into the man, "I'm sick and tired of idiotic human beings attempting to go against the law. King Faust's word is absolute."
Joshua fell to one knee, weariness finally catching up.
Jura spat his blood onto his face, casually grinning as he willingly pulled the weapon deeper into his stomach, "And I'm sick and tired of idiots thinking they can order us around. At least you'll be out of the way."
"What are y-"
In just a moment, Joshua felt a sharp sting through the neck from behind. He felt himself freeze in place as his pain receptors sought to catch up, and was promptly kicked to the ground. His body fell flat as a red puddle formed under him. A faint gasp escaped his lips as he pressed a hand against where he believed the injury to be.
The world slowed down to the officer for the second time.
Joshua recognized a losing battle, especially when it involved himself. Whether it was through Jura's hands or outside interference, the outcome was inevitable.
He had joined Edolas' Royal Army to ensure peace and stability throughout the kingdom, particularly in this day and age. Robberies were currently at an all-time high. Businesses had been declining in revenue due to the surprisingly large tax rates, and guilds were refusing to help with anything. They were simply too concerned about hoarding magic.
Despite all of that, Joshua was a vindicator for justice, and he would be until the last of his days.
"Di...Did I do g-good Mr. J-Jura?" Someone stuttered, it sounded like a kid.
The man in question simply coughed up more blood, trying to implement tension into his injury, "Very good Lyon, I'm proud."
Joshua's eyes gently swayed toward the other figure.
He was a slim child of average height with a muscular and toned body for his age. His hair was bluish silver hair, most of which were spiky strands that jutted upwards on top of his head, except for some which kept pointing down and partially covered the upper left part of his face.
The silver-haired child pulled the blade out of Jura's stomach, applying some clothes to pressurize the damage. Sheathing his knife, Lyon carefully endeavored to support the man up as they started to move away from the fighting.
The officer's attention lingered on the boy.
Jura brought a child into this, merely to strike him down. It's obvious that Lyon didn't fancy being anywhere near this battle, but he did so, and was likely ordered to.
Conjuring as much strength as he could feasibly muster, Joshua crawled to his sword and latched onto it with his right hand. He elevated his arm at an angle, positioning himself to where the pair marching away could still be viewed. The officer muffled out the rampaging fight going on, solely focused on the heavily injured man, and lining up a shot.
He was in agony.
Every movement of his body screamed at him to stay down, and yet, he proceeded to endeavor ahead. Joshua was a soldier, and even at the brink of death, he'd carry on his duty.
His breathing steadied as he eyed the target, slowly increasing the distance between them, like the wind drifting leaves apart from the tree in which it came.
He flung the sword into the air, observing it spinning across the room akin to a ceiling fan.
Right on target, it landed on Jura's back as the man hardly reacted with a faint gasp, and shortly collapsed to the floor with a thud.
He was dead, those expressionless eyes he'd seen far too many times were the giveaway.
"Mr. Jura!" The white-haired boy screamed in dread, hastily removing the blade lodged onto his back, "Mr. Jura, wake up!"
Lyon yelled, clutching his bloody armor, tears cascading down like the rain that continued to rage on in the background. The child stood up, blood-red eyes gazing into his fatigued one's, and grabbed the discolored sword.
Joshua knew it, from the look he was being given, that it's the end of the road. For if it wasn't the boy, then surely he'd succumb to his injuries.
Mustering enough strength to gently open his necklace that had a small picture placed inside of it, which he caresses in his hand. The image of three people, an older man, and a woman with a little toddler smiling in the photo.
The running of footsteps caught his notice as Lyon rushed at him, the blade that was thrown earlier in his hand.
He couldn't move.
The officer was bleeding out and was utterly debilitated, struggling to even breathe. The battle within the guild had spilled outside, soaking his troops and the guild members in the rain. He didn't know how long the battle would last, but he knew it wouldn't end any time soon.
With that, Joshua simply stared at Lyon as the grief-stricken boy slashed the sword downwards, and only darkness followed.
I tapped my finger repeatedly against the chair's handle, kindly swaying a cup filled with wine in my other hand. The Royal Guards littered around the edges of the room, standing firm in their place, not budging an inch unless necessary or directed to.
The kingdom was splintered between those who wished to maintain things as they are and the people who remained by the nation. Guilds all around Edolas have voiced their opinion towards his methods, and it was beyond bothersome. Although, some of them have shown their allegiance to him. Patience was something I'd long since grasped as a necessity given my position, but moments similar to these push it to its limits.
"King Faust, it appears he's returned and is ready to report back to you," One of his advisors, named Byro, stood before him and bowed his head.
"Send him in," I commanded as he nodded, gesturing to the guards stationed at the entry point to open the door.
Entering the Royal Chambers was a tall, middle-aged man distinguished by his massive, extremely muscular physique, untarnished despite his advanced age. He had long light hair, which tidily gathered on the back of his head and tied in a braid, reaching down below the middle of his back, and was secured near its end with a large knot. He wore a mildly loose and dark kimono with thin edges and bands secured around his waist.
"Jiemma, what a surprise to see you here now," I wasn't expecting him to arrive so soon, but I suppose some things have to go my way, "I'd imagine you'd return to your guild first."
The man dropped down to a knee, just as my advisor did before him.
"Anything that could hopefully serve you will eternally be the priority, my king."
I smirked, observing him tilt his head downwards.
"How is your son Marvin? I understand he's been training quite extensively."
"Indeed he has. The boy yearns to join the army once he's old enough," Jiemma replies, visibly pleased with his child's prodigious nature, "If that is what you wish?"
"And he shall, as soon as you consider him to be ready, I'm certain Erza would be keen on working with him," My hand moves to take a drink from the cup in my possession, "But enough of that, what do you have to report?"
He composes himself swiftly and addresses my question, "Sabertooth has dismantled Quatro Cerberus as they were not compliant with your decree. Lamia Scale was likewise placed in a comparable situation based on the statements I've collected, and we expended an extensive number of soldiers while doing so, but they too were overthrown."
"And their tools have been seized?" I inquired, narrowing my eyes in anticipation.
"Of course."
"Good," My lips jerked upwards, before it sank back to its neutral position, "Anything else you'd like to add?"
"Fairy Tail is still maintaining their guerilla approach. Regrettably, we're unable to pinpoint their precise location as the guild building they occupy seems to teleport when we get close."
I hummed in response, "And my son?"
"We…" He faltered momentarily, then sighed, "We're still searching for him, and we'll deliver any information that's discovered back to you, my king."
I scowled at the news, but sustained my composure.
Jellal disappeared over a week ago and it's beginning to become worrisome, if it wasn't already, that is. I suspect he's been abducted, potentially from a guild or those pesky Exceeds and their esteemed 'omnipotent' queen.
Launching an offensive against Extalia was a viable option, considering that their island was directly above the kingdom. However, given the inhabitants are all capable of utilizing magic and the ruler allegedly held futuristic powers, it would be unwise to gamble anything with those odds.
Thankfully, Lily had imparted that information to us, which was one of the reasons I've allowed him to become a general. It was also to spite his kind, but that's hardly something to ponder about.
"Well done Jiemma, I hope Sabertooth preserves their devotion to the kingdom and its citizens at large," I stated, nodding at him as he lingers in his kneeling stance.
"As long as I'm the guild's master, they will continue to go beyond expectations," He answered with the utmost conviction in his voice.
"See to that, you're dismissed."
The older man rose from his stance, bowing to me once again, and vacated the room.
His guild was one of the first to declare its loyalty to the kingdom. They've completed virtually every mission sent to them without much difficulty. And considering the debacle we're currently in, that's quite remarkable. It's precisely why I've employed a hands-off approach with this guild specifically.
Sometimes a tiger simply needs to be let loose.
I'm certain that they'll continue their exceptional services.
"My king, shall we head over to the scientists?" Byro stepped forward, gesturing to the hallway on my left, "They should be waiting."
"Very well, let us make haste."
It was a short stroll down the corridor. Two guards were following behind us as I'd instructed them to do so. The hallway itself was littered with paintings of my ancestors, flaunting their magical prowess as if it were nobody's business. I inwardly cursed somewhat, shifting my eyes towards the doorway that led to where we were headed.
The guards stationed at the door adjacent to the entrance relocated elsewhere, authorizing our entry into the room.
A middle-aged man with oddly shaped arrow-like eyebrows, and rumpled long darkish-purple hair with one thick lock of white bang near the front right side, immediately hurried over from his workbench.
"King Faust, you've arrived! We've been expecting you!"
"As you should've, Jacques" Byro remarked unfazed as I side-eyed him, "I believe he seeks to discern how your team is developing at their task."
"O-O-Of c-course!" The purple-haired man stammered, gesturing us further inwards.
My observations drifted to the left, perceiving about a dozen or so scientists operating on a colossal-sized lacrima being pressed together by five statues that nearly touched the ceiling.
"That would be the Anima," Jacques stated, nodding at his fellow workers as they returned to their duties.
"It's much bigger than before," I recalled the device standing approximately about a fraction of the size as it is presently.
"We've made some updates not too long ago," He explained with a smirk, "I'm certain you were too busy with other affairs at the time."
"Quite extraordinary improvements you've made," His advisor affirmed, satisfied with what he was examining, "Very impressive."
Jacques' beamed at that as he motioned someone to retrieve something for him.
In his grip was a very long scepter, nearly my height. It was plain-looking, with a light pole that ended in an intricately decorated part. Two long protrusions were at its lower edges, and a smaller pair on the upper part with the Edolas symbol, each holding two rings hanging from it.
"This would be yours," He handed over the staff as I clutched it firmly, examining the design with my hand that grazed the finer patterns.
"What exactly is this?" I questioned, still inspecting the item.
"I'm glad that you asked. It's an intricately modeled scepter fueled by magic that can discharge concussive blasts at anything you wish."
My eyes widened at his words. However, he wasn't finished yet.
"And it's wirelessly powered by the Anima, meaning as long as it's still up, there's no need for a recharge. Once we have enough magic in the air, they can absorb that as an option."
"Splendid," I simpered considerably, my mood was at a record-breaking high.
Ordinarily, the magical devices were secured into the Anima once they were thoroughly exerted and needed to rejuvenate their reserves.
With this, that won't ever be required or become a problem out on the field.
I returned my attention to Jacques, who was strangely frowning.
"Is something wrong?"
"Well…" He nervously scratched his head.
"Spit it out," Byro ordered, effectively startling the man.
"There were initially supposed to be more staves, but…" He gulped while massaging his wrist, "They...uh...went missing."
"Missing?" I lifted an eyebrow at his proclamation, "What do you mean by that?"
"We don't know where they went, one day it's there, the following morning, they've disappeared," Jacques clarified, tensely fondling his hands together, "We've interrogated everyone in the facility, but we're still searching for them."
"A shame," I stated as the two of them looked at me confused, "I'll leave you to that then."
"As you wish, my king," The purple-haired man mumbled somewhat confusingly, while my consultant was visibly perplexed.
"Are you sure that's wise?" Byro furrowed his gaze at me as I only smiled, "It's a weapon that could be used against us."
"Sometimes entrusting your citizens is the most reliable decision to make."
Truly, it was. For you can't be a ruler, let alone the leader of any organization, if you don't possess some confidence in your subordinates. A community cannot flourish when those anchoring from behind feel deceived.
For my kingdom, I'd do anything to ensure its prosperity.
We've been stripped of our birthright, and it's our ethical obligation that we attempt everything within our capability to take it back. Edolas must preserve and endure until the blazing golden age of the past returns in all of its glory. If the dark guilds intend on halting prosperity in the making, then they forsake both themselves, and the mourning civilians who yearn for a more normal life.
As long as I'm the king, nothing will prevent me from guaranteeing that they receive everything this world has to offer, even if I ought to taint my own hands to do it.
But first…
"Keep working on the Anima, I want it operating at maximum efficiency," The kingdom desired strength and I shall make it so.
"And what about the other thing, my king?" My advisor hinted, knowing how I felt when I heard its name.
I noticeably grimaced, "Keep the routine searches as per usual, but silently, don't allow the populace in on anything concerning that...creature."
He nodded, perceiving that as his indicator to vacate the room.
My hand deepened its grip on the staff as I glimpsed Byro fading out of my eyesight.
The world was a place of never-ending developments, filled with hindrances that craved propelling disorder into the assumed 'status-quo'. Edolas demanded to be better, and it shall, for I'm willing to die securing that certainty.
My sights gravitated to the Anima as it gleamed blindingly in the chamber, indicating that it's currently being utilized.
The world will understand success, even if they detest the method.
An everlasting kingdom awaits beyond the torrenting storm.
The beam of light subsided as my feet settled down on what I assumed to be dirt.
A familiar gust of wind allowed the trees to sway in one direction, while I took in my surroundings, noticing a settlement I didn't know the name of in the distance. The staves were rattled to the rhythm of my small footsteps that resisted against the sloppy mud. Each step I took fought versus the soil that wanted to swallow my foot whole, a stark contrast to the home in which I came from.
My eyes drifted skyward, viewing the twisting dark clouds where I descended, gradually dissipating into nothingness.
"Thank you, Lily," I whispered somberly to the now blue oasis.
I took a deep breath, gazing into the vast forest that spread out in all directions. There was no end from my vantage point. Only the small hamlet to the east was distinguishable.
Earthland was the name of this world.
Gone were the floating islands, and the endless amounts of royal troops monitoring every crevice they could. Convicting, if not outright killing, anyone found using magic of whatever sort, especially towards those that fought back. Guilds had either been driven into hiding or exterminated. Only Fairy Tail and a few others survived as their methods of fighting were hit-and-run tactics.
Magic was scarce, and the kingdom used the opportunity to steal from this world. Something I've taken upon myself to end at any cost.
From what the exiled Exceed had revealed to me, the process of creating the machine was sped up due to an unforeseen enormous spike from this dimension. Coupled with the panic of losing its magic, the country completed the 'Anima' much faster than both myself and Lily had originally anticipated.
I'll forever be in debt to him for saving me, costing his residence in Extalia for doing so. Even more so following the training sessions I've undergone.
'Jellal, I think you should come up with a different persona while you're in that world.'
'What do you mean, Lily?'
'It would be sensible to conceal yourself, since you're royalty, it's plausible that your counterpart is someone of importance.'
I rearranged my dark blue bandana and the silver forehead protector, while the green mask was left in the same spot.
My footsteps made themselves known to the sulky ground, as I sprinted towards the village, intent on acquiring some knowledge about this world.
"No pathway connecting two places like the machines back at home," I muttered, astounded at how vastly distinctive Earthland was to Edolas, "There's so much dirt…"
Preventing myself from advancing any further, I peered over the cliff's edge preceding the bustling village, with its residents walking about gleefully.
I wasn't particularly good with people, but I at least had some skills taught to me. Being the prince of the largest kingdom in the world came with some perks.
Activating the staff containing [Air Magic], I floated down to the entryway, making sure that I'm out of view beforehand.
The settlement itself was a fairly meager one, but I reckon my naivete on the topic could have played a part. I've lived pampered inside the palace, incapable of truly comprehending the outside world. Comparing it to the capital of a kingdom would be impractical.
Slowly entering the village through the main road, I observed the wooden structures scattered about. They were still in construction, from businesses to simple houses, the village demonstrably desired to broaden its territory to attract more people.
"Oh? And who might you be?"
I whirled around, eyeing the being who approached me.
It appeared to be a senior man, roughly around my father's age, but he could be older than that. He wore a bright yellow jacket and black boots that nearly eclipsed his knees, with bluish jeans with a dark-brownish cane being used as a walking stick. The man's hair was a mixture of white and black, which makes sense given his elderly appearance.
He appeared to be somewhat confused staring at me, but didn't perceive a reason for concern.
"Just someone passing through," I replied, soothing my emotions as he wasn't a threat of any sort. At least, from what I've noticed so far.
"Are you a mage perhaps?" He asked, glancing at the staffs latched onto my back.
"I am."
The man, who I still didn't know the name of, hummed at my answer. He encircled me, only faintly stopping to peer at my magical items, before returning to his original position.
"What guild are you from child?" The old man questioned, gathering both of his hands onto the cane.
"I do not affiliate myself with any guild," The truth, and only that. Earthland was already a vastly different landscape compared to Edolas. Coupled with the difference in power, as magic was indeed a large player in that, I needed to be alert, lest everything that'd been set in motion for me to be here was for nothing.
My frigid outward demeanor hadn't subsided whatsoever. It'd be more beneficial if I played ignorant on the matter and had him describe it rather than gamble blindly, "I don't know what guilds are like, never really joined one."
"Worry not lad, for a second there I thought you were a part of Titan Nose," He sighed while shaking his head, "They're a group of troublemakers around these parts, I tell ya."
My curiosity was getting the better of me as there wasn't any malice in his voice, just a casual vexation.
"What exactly is a guild like?"
"It depends on where you are. Some are supportive, while others simply thrive on destruction," The elderly man clarified, revealing a blade underneath his garments, "But don't believe someone through words, understand them with your eyes. A retired Rune Knight like myself isn't unbiased like you're wishing."
"A Rune Knight?"
"A long time ago, but that's something I'm certain you don't want to listen to me babble about."
A factual statement, as even though it'd be interesting, that's not why I was still here.
"They're an organized faction created by the Magic Council to 'uphold justice' and is the primary military force for Ishgar in many countries," He frowned as his face seemed to somber, "Sadly, they've lost their way throughout the years, a shame."
So not strikingly horrendous as opposed to Edolas' Royal Army, however, it requires improvement.
"What about guilds? What do they represent?" I inquired, seeing as the man was reasonably well informed given his former position.
"The ability to alter one's destiny."
He brushed a hand against his sword, clearly reminiscing about something.
"It was an opportunity for the populace to actively be involved in helping their community with their own hands, at least, that's what I think Elfeseria desired when he created the first guild."
I nodded at his explanation, pleased at how cooperative he was.
Given the way he nonchalantly explained how guilds are meant to function and the differences they were compared to my home, I'd wager that considering Fairy Tail was the most well-known dark guild in Edolas, here it'd convincingly be...
"Do you perhaps have a map with you? And can you mark where Fairy Tail is?" I needed to confirm it myself, with my own eyes.
"A Rune Knight always has an extra spare, even in retirement," He chuckled, revealing the map from within his cloak, and gently placed it in my hand, "And that wild guild would be….right here."
He marked a town named 'Magnolia', located approximately at the bottom right portion of the map.
"I believe that's all, correct?"
My body relaxes somewhat, as I study the unusual man in front of me.
I found it odd how trusting he is, especially to a stranger such as myself. If someone had tried to act as I've done in Edolas, they'd likely be questioned at the very least. Hesitancy was my first counter to anything I haven't confronted before.
"I know you're weary of things child, but if you continue down that road, you'll grow even older than me," He laughed, though it was one imbued with sorrow, for I've seen that far too much.
"So just go to Magnolia and I'll find it?" I queried doubtingly.
"Just look for the loudest group of people, it shouldn't be that hard." My eyes observed him curiously as he chuckled.
"What is your name?"
"Joshua Pravda," He replied with a smile, but quickly implored a question of his own, "And yours?"
"I…" My lips curved downwards as I scrambled for an answer.
For all the planning Lily had arranged for me, he forgot the actual codename. Saying to come up with something was harder than many might think. Sometimes it's easier to just stick to the basics.
"You're a mysterious child, that's for certain. The type to be gone within a moment's notice," Joshua remarked, not waiting for a response, "In any case, if you don't want to divulge that information, it's fine."
"Thank you, Mr. Pravda," I was truly grateful for this man.
He only shrugged at my gratitude, waving me off after pointing out on the map where the closest train station was.
I went quicker than I appeared, using [Air Magic]'s mist body to enshroud myself from any spectators.
Leaving the developing village wasn't much of a dilemma now that I owned a guide, though I still desired to examine more of this world and its surroundings, but that can be arranged for later.
Using the magic within the staff, I hovered into the sky, keen on getting to my destination with haste.
Money was something I haven't ever had to bother myself about, for quite obvious reasons. Royalty has its many upsides, and capital was one of them.
Father would always shower me with gifts, except it didn't seem to truly come from the man, but someone who bore his face.
He wasn't always like that, wearing a facade to satisfy the masses. Many unknowingly were forced to pick a side, either obey the commands, or be judged as traitorous to the kingdom. Dark guilds existed before this period, but they were notably thin, and not on the scale as it is presently.
Faust Fernandes used to be a kind man, someone who listened to the calls of his people, and utilized his energy into creating a world meant for the future.
Then...it happened.
I don't remember much, but I do recall my father being infuriated about something. Whatever it was incited him to divert the majority of his workers away from technological progression and into what's now known as...the Anima.
He was absent more often than not, only coming to check up on my progress with the several tutors he's hired. I could see it in his eyes, his son was simply someone used to further his plans for obtaining magic.
Some may call me selfish and egotistical for thinking this...but I...I only want my father back...that's the biggest reason why I'm doing this.
"Papa, why don't you have the people make the food instead?" I asked, staring at him intently.
"Well...there's a sort of beauty in creating something yourself," He replied with a soft smile that I've grown used to.
"Isn't it easier for someone else to do it for you?"
"Easier doesn't always translate to better. Don't you feel accomplished when the thing you've been working hard on is finally done?"
My eyes drooped at the reminder, feeling my head slouch against the train's window.
Money.
It was one of the first things Lily and I discussed. The Exceed had figured out the solution to our plight not too long after. Magic and the side effects of random debris weren't the only things shoved into the Anima...but actual people.
I was thoroughly sickened when I was told that.
Innocent bystanders were dying because of greed and it only propelled our agenda even further.
The black cat had pickpocketed them throughout the years and handed me the total of about 50,000 'Jewels' as this world calls it.
Whilst I detested the methods of gaining these funds, it'd no doubt aid me in terminating the overarching problem.
"WE HAVE ARRIVED AT MAGNOLIA STATION!"
The conductor's announcement caused the train to slowly come to a halt, authorizing its passengers to exit.
The town was a large built-up area, extending over a large, rectangular surface to the shores of a lake. Splitting the place vertically and horizontally was a series of large roads. The buildings themselves are mildly reminiscent of an older Edolas.
It was a bubbling town with shops littering every corner, with people moving about, seemingly lacking any worry. I could perceive people laughing, while kids even younger than myself were running around like they owned the place.
While Magnolia was on a smaller scale compared to the Royal Capital, it felt more alive, an obvious contrast to the fear-stricken citizens of my homeland.
Moving into an alleyway, I applied [Air Magic] to conceal myself from view and marched towards the supposed Fairy Tail guild.
As my destination grew near, I could see the building exactly where the map had marked it to be.
It was an imposing structure consisting of what appeared to be two floors, possibly three.
At the center was the guild's name, topped by a protruding, stylized heart shape and flanked by a pair of carved fairies with...tails?
From the outside, I could hear people yelling and fighting, though it was akin to roughhousing more than anything.
Strange, but I supposed it's fitting for how the former Rune Knight had described the guild to be.
Grabbing another staff and setting the other back into place. It was a long wooden staff similar to the others and its head is a three-spiked fork holding [Sleep Magic].
With a mental command, it radiated bright blue and swept over the building.
"Hahaha! I'm the king of the w...orl.." I overheard someone muttering before a crash followed after, likely from them collapsing.
Like dominos, the sounds of people dropping continued for a few moments until complete silence, signaling to me that I should enter.
The inside was similar to a large lunch hall, mainly consisting of a contrast between dark and light wood. Several long benches and the related tables stretched across with many people laying on it, snoring as they were unconscious.
I strode into the guild, glancing around every so often. While I was convinced they were asleep, it's better to be on the safe side.
I had to remind myself that this was one of the strongest guilds in the country, and I was about to walk into the lion's den, if I hadn't previously. With how powerful they were alleged to be, the master would unmistakably be a monstrosity in their own right.
It was silent as my footsteps echoed throughout the large room, moving to where I speculated would be the 'leaders' room. My hand proceeded to grip the door handle and with sufficient enough force, I swung it open.
Holding my breath in anticipation, I quickly had to halt for a moment as on the other side of the room was an extremely short, elderly man. He had black eyes and was growing bald with only the outer rims of his head containing white hair.
He eyed me indifferently, without significant care, which was odd given how I had moments ago knocked out the guild.
His posture was laid back, but it was as if the man's sheer presence coerced me to sustain the weight of the world. Suddenly, without warning, the feeling lifted as I leaned myself against the doorway to ensure that I didn't crumble.
Then, the dwarf-like man eventually opened his mouth.
"How may I help you, child?"
I gulped, not at his relaxed demeanor, but because of the stare he's giving me.
If my father was a 'wise man', then this man would be all-knowing.
"Are you the guild master?" I questioned, already knowing the answer.
"That would be correct...and you are?"
For a moment I played with the approach of hiding my identity from everyone, even Lily had entertained the idea, but thinking about it rationally made the whole thing problematic.
It'd be impossible to conceal myself completely if I wished to join, unless my presumptions concerning them were inaccurate, trusting at least the leader would suffice.
So...I took a risk.
"Jellal Fernandes."
"Makarov Dreyar," He acknowledged the reply with a smile, but nothing out of the ordinary transpired.
Is my counterpart not well-known?
Interesting.
"Well Jellal, I'd ask you why the guild is unconscious, though I have a feeling you're not here to stir trouble."
Perceptive.
Very perceptive.
However, I imagine being the head of a 'strong guild', at least that's what the brochure in the train proclaimed, compelled one to be insightful.
Nevertheless, not getting straight to the point would only be detrimental.
"Forgive me, I have no intention of harming anyone," I removed the cloth, granting him a distinct view of my appearance, "I simply desire secrecy."
"Oh? And what for?"
"I...I am not of this world…" I said truthfully, expecting him not to believe me.
"Are you now?" He leaned forward and listened curiously, however, I noted that it wasn't out of skepticism.
"Yes, it's a society running out of magic, stealing from this one to feed their own using a machine called the Anima," A sigh escaped my lips for what felt like the hundredth time, "At first everything was pointing towards using technology and gradually shifting the magical aspects out of the limelight."
My father wanted it in fact, he was a man that believed in advancing the world. When everything was leading one way, he'd adjust without hesitation.
He wanted to make everyone happy, even if that was nigh impossible.
Now I can't even recognize him anymore.
"Something just...changed. I don't know what happened, everything was going great and then...then…"
"Breathe Jellal," Makarov assured with genuine concern, "You're safe here."
My breathing steadied as he instructed, feeling the turning in my stomach lessen.
"Edolas is currently undergoing a civil war because King Faust ordered all magic use outside of the ones he deemed essential obsolete. And if you disobey his mandate? You're made silent...permanently."
It made me nauseous, even more so with me being the prince of the kingdom.
I had no say in the matter…
"So you've come here to stop the king from absorbing magic so that they'd return to advancing technology?"
"And in turn, ending the bloodshed," I added.
The guild master's eyes narrowed momentarily, "You're doing this all alone? It'd be you against an entire kingdom then."
"As long as I know that I'm doing the right thing, that's what matters to me." Those words would be ingrained into me until I die, that I'm certain.
He hesitated, only for the smile from earlier to return twice as wide.
Makarov...believed me?
"You're telling the truth, that I have no doubt," He chuckled, taking a sip of his coffee.
"How do you know I'm not lying?" If I was in his position, I'd be doubtful about everything I had spoken.
"Because I know someone who came from your world, don't ask me who, let's just say they wish to be left alone. I'll let them know about you, they're trustworthy."
Someone from Edolas arrived here before me?
How is that even possible without the Anima?
Despite that, I nodded at his words.
"Well then, I'm assuming you're here to join the guild?" He suspected accurately.
"I...yes, that is my intention," Pausing momentarily, I gave him an inquisitive look, "If that's alright with you?"
"Of course, why would I deny a child with such a heavy burden?" He snorted and shook his head, "Master Precht would be ashamed of me if I did."
I let out an exhalation of relief, feeling some sort of comfort after everything.
"Are you sure?" Makarov observed me with some concern, "You're just a child, to be traveling all on your own will be dangerous."
"I assure you, I will be fine." I told both him and myself, "I am the only one capable of closing the gates."
And it was my duty to do so.
Truly the Anima was a despicable thing, one that I hoped to personally destroy. If the mission takes me decades to complete, then so be it.
'Jellal, I think you should come up with a different persona while you're in that world.'
'You're a mysterious child, that's for certain. The type to be gone within a moment's notice.'
My lips thinned while the memories came to the forefront once more, but this time, I knew my answer.
"Mystogan."
"Hmm?"
"For now, it would be best if you referred to me as Mystogan," I informed him, understanding that it would become a problem, "I likely have an alternate version, and it would cause confusion if I were to have the same name."
Mysterious and...gone.
Mystogan.
A fitting name, I suppose.
While my counterpart wasn't an established person presently, he or she could conceivably become so later. An unnecessary gamble in that department would be foolish, especially if someone recognized me.
"If that is what you wish, then I will not stop you."
He affirmed with a sigh and proceeded to take another sip of his coffee.
The guild master was powerful, even without the ability to feel magic, he had an aura to him that preached experience and strength.
His eyes softened while I stiffly watched his gaze as Makarov finally spoke.
"Welcome to Fairy Tail...Mystogan."
I like worldbuilding, and Fairy Tail has so many different avenues to choose from I'm surprised there aren't more fics for it.
Me and my Beta (Mori) had planned to do a side-story for different characters in the series affected by Danny's existence, whether it be directly or indirectly.
It's not necessary to read this, only that it'll expand on certain things that aren't mentioned or glossed over in Earthland's Gamer. EX: The Makarov and Mystogan scene happens at the end of chapters 13 - 14, but I've lengthened it.
This Edolas is much...MUCH darker when compared with the original due to magic draining faster than normal. Once people get desperate, that's when their ruthless side begins to show.
Why is magic draining quicker than in canon? Well...that's for me and my beta to know.
The OC of Jacques, for those who haven't guessed yet, is Hughes' father as he isn't old enough to be a captain yet.
I enjoyed writing from the perspective of a random soldier 'Joshua' in Edolas for a bit, then having Mystogan meet his counterpart with the same name.
Anyway, remember to follow and review!
Until Next Time!