Chapter 27: A Gathering of Powers I - Convergence

"Relax, take a deep breath, aim for the target, and release your hold on the arrow."

Yukino did as she was instructed. Taking in a deep breath that calmed her mind, she released the string holding the arrow back and sent the projectile towards a makeshift dummy that shattered upon impact.

Pleased with the results, Yuzu patted the silver-haired girl for an impressive try. "Good job, Yukino. You have a real talent for archery."

A little embarrassed by the compliment, the Celestial mage still accepted the praise from her adoptive aunt. "Hehe…thanks."

"I know we just started a week ago but with this level of improvement, it won't be long before you get your own variation of the Heilig Bogen powered by magic."

"Still, creating a spirit bow requires much more concentration than I expected."

"It's often the first and most difficult thing for a Quincy to master." Yuzu showed her Quincy cross tied to her wrist. "That's why we have these crosses that serve as a focal point to gather our energies when we form our signature weapons. You already have good control over your magic power, so a little refinement is all we need for you to master spirit weapon creation."

"Are there other weapons Quincies could construct aside from bows?" Yukino asked, curious about the types of weapons a Quincy could conjure with their power.

"Yeah," replied Yuzu. "A faction of Quincies known as the Wandenreich was known to have a variety of weapons aside from the standard Quincy bow. Longswords, sabers, claws, crossbows, javelins, a sniper rifle, and even a machine gun. The only factors you need to consider are which weapon best suits you in terms of long-range and close-quarters combat and what weapon are you more comfortable with."

"I see," voiced the adopted girl in fascination. She never realized just how diverse Quincy powers were. "So, once I master my bow and gain my own Heilig Bogen, will you be teaching me how to construct other weapons as well?"

"Yup!" answered the youngest Kurosaki sibling with a cheery tone. "We'll be teaching you that along with Hirenkyaku, Schatten Schritt, and many more. We'll also be giving you your very own Leiden Handt once you reached a certain level and finally… achieve the pinnacle of Quincy abilities."

"Which is?" Yukino asked, excited to hear what this ability could be.

"The Quincy Holy Form…Vollständing."

"Wow," expressed the mage. "I never knew there was so much to learn about being a Quincy."

"I know," agreed the Last True Quincy. "Even I learn new things every day." She then conjured her own spirit bow and aimed at a neatly placed boulder just a few meters ahead. "Come on," gestured Yuzu to Yukino. "Follow my lead."

"Right." Yukino conjured her own bow and aimed at the same boulder.

This training session, which was being done in their backyard, was devised by the Kurosaki siblings and started about a week ago just a few days after they arrived from Crocus. Before they proceeded with her training, Ichigo let Yukino get used to being in their house to which she adapted quite perfectly. After the ordeal that was dubbed "The Eclipse Conspiracy" by the media, they needed a breather from anything strenuous.

The girl's regimen consists primarily of archery lessons, control exercises for magic power, and some hand-to-hand combat for now. Once Yukino advances in her training, she'll be going to the advanced set until finally, she becomes ready to master her Vollständing. All of this will be taught by Yuzu under the supervision of Ichigo.

While Yuzu and Yukino were busy with the latter's Quincy lessons, Orihime was busy with her own student to teach. A while back, her husband had suggested to Lucy that she might learn a thing or two from the Fullbringer since her Celestial spirits were somewhat similar to the Shun Shun Rikka. The stellar spirit wizard obliged, hoping to gain knowledge from powerful warriors like the Kurosaki matriarch.

"Alright, Lucy," Orihime began while removing her hairpins and placing them on the table next to the blonde's Celestial keys. "Give me a brief description of your magic. Let's start from there."

"Right," the stellar wizard nodded. "Basically, my magic lets summon Celestial spirits to help in battle. So far, I can summon at least three spirits at a time before I start to tire out."

"What's your relationship with your spirits?"

"They're my friends!" replied Lucy jovially. "I don't see them as tools. They have their own thoughts and feelings. To treat as anything like lesser creatures is an insult not just to them but to me and the bond we share."

A smile made its way to Orihime's face. The answer she heard was what she would also give if she were to describe her connection with her pixies. "That's a great answer, Lucy."

"Thanks," the blonde wizard cheerily replied.

"That said, I get the impression that your Celestial spirits have the same characteristics as my pixies."

"Ichigo did mention that back in Crocus," Lucy remembered that short conversation with the reaper.

"I could even argue that your bond with your spirits could be similar to a Soul Reaper and their zanpakūto."

Lucy's interest in the topic grew after Orihime said that. "Really?"

"For a Soul Reaper to grow stronger, they must commune with their zanpakūto to better understand the intricacies of their powers. The deeper the bond between master and spirit, the stronger they become," explained Orihime. "The same principle could be applied to my pixies and your Celestial spirits. In my case, my powers are virtually limitless and the thing that makes them strong is my willpower. If I doubt myself, then it means I'm doubting my pixies and thus weakening their capabilities."

Lucy was quiet. She was so engrossed in the discussion that her entire focus was solely on the woman in front of her.

"If you somehow manage to deepen your bond with your spirits even further, you might access skills unique to each spirit and use them in tandem with said spirit during battle."

"Wow," exclaimed Lucy. After hearing the Fullbringer's explanation, she felt greatly enlightened regarding the potential of her type of magic. "Hey, wait a minute!" she yelped as a memory from long ago resurfaced. "I just remembered something from my first mission as a Fairy Tail mage."

"Oh?" Orihime was interested. "What is it?"

"During my first mission as a member of the guild, we encountered another Celestial wizard by the name of Duke Everlue."

"Who's that?"

"Some rich creepy fatso with an obsession with ugly women." Lucy and Orihime cringed at how low this Everlue person's taste in women is. "Well, anyway, he used to have Virgo's key. He had this ability to dig holes in the ground, just like Virgo. Maybe his bond with Virgo was strong enough for him to have her abilities."

"That's a good observation, Lucy," Orihime remarked, impressed at the blonde. "The only advice I could give you regarding your spirits is to commune with them. Deepen your bond with them to fully unlock your potential as a Celestial wizard."

"I will, Orihime," Lucy complied with a fist raised in determination. "Thanks so much for that advise."

"It's no problem. However, what you need to learn are some fighting skills."

"Huh?"

"While it's true that you try to compensate for the things you lack, you're still a bit reliant on your spirits."

Lucy's chipper mood quickly plummeted. "Aww…" she groaned after Orihime reminded her of her weakness.

Seeing as the blonde mage's demeanor took a nosedive, Orihime quickly cheered her up. "Don't be so glum, Lucy. Everyone has a weakness or two. And besides," the Fullbringer made a goofy Karate pose, "…with me as your sensei, you'll be kicking bad-guy butt in no time."

A blob of sweat dropping, Lucy remembered that Orihime can be weird sometimes. "By the way, what will you be teaching me?"

"I'll be teaching you some Karate and Judo!" replied Orihime excitedly. "I'll have you know that I'm a Black Belt at both."

"I don't know what Karate is but I do know crazy," remarked the blonde. "So, where will be practicing?"

"Well, our lounge is big enough," Orihime said aloud, a finger tapping on her chin. "There's also the massive secret training ground under our house. That would be good."

Lucy's eyes almost pooped out of her head when she heard the second sentence. "Did you just say 'massive secret training ground'!?"

"Huh? Oh, yes," nodded the Fullbringer innocently.

"How? When? I…You know what? Never mind." The Celestial mage just sighed. She should've known this family would have something out-of-this-world given what they really are.

Meanwhile, Orihime noticed two figures walking toward them. Upon closer scrutiny, she identified the individuals to be Jura Neeks and Master Makarov.

"Huh?" Lucy also saw the two powerful wizards' approach. "What's Master Makarov and Jura doing here?"

"I don't know," answered Orihime. "They must be looking for Ichigo or something." Going with that idea, the motherly woman waved her hand at her husband and called out his name. "Ichigo! We have visitors!"

The man in question stopped the training of his daughter and began walking toward the two newcomers with Yuzu and Yukino behind him. "Old man, Jura," said Ichigo. "What can I do for you?"

"Good day, Sir Ichigo," the bald rock mage greeted formally, causing the reaper to groan in annoyance.

"No need to be so formal, Jura," the hybrid said, hoping to be addressed casually.

"Nonsense," exclaimed the Wizard Saint. "I'm merely showing respect to a man of power such as yourself."

"Well, whatever. So, what's with the visit?"

It was Makarov who answered this time. "Jura came and invited me for a Wizard Saint's meeting."

"Okay?" Ichigo was confused. If Makarov was invited then what were they doing here? "What's that got to do with me?"

"You are also invited," the old man answered flatly.

Upon hearing this, Ichigo let out a tired sigh. "So, it's finally come."

"That it has, my boy," the third master agreed.

Among the listeners, Lucy was curious as to why Ichigo was supposed to attend this meeting. "Umm…how come Ichigo is invited? Isn't it supposed to be just a meeting between Wizard Saints?"

Jura answered the blonde. "That would be the case if it were an ordinary gathering, Miss Lucy."

"I don't follow."

The bald mage then explained, "While it's true that there will be a meeting between Wizard Saints, it is only a small part of what could be the largest gathering of important individuals in all of Fiore."

"How big are we talking about?" Lucy inquired.

"Not only will the Wizard Saints be present, but so will the guildmasters of every legal guild in the kingdom, the Magic Council, and even the Royal Family will be in attendance."

For a second time today, Lucy was bug-eyed. All of that prominent people will be present? What could be so important to have such a grand gathering?

The blonde mage wasn't the only one surprised. Yukino let out a muffled gasp when she heard who will be attending. That said, she was curious as to what would be the agenda in this congregation. She had a good guess of what could be the potential topic of discussion.

"Dad?" the Quincy trainee called. "Does this meeting have to do with the Grand Magic Games?"

"It does," Ichigo answered.

Makarov then added, "Specifically, the sudden release of reiatsu that covered the entirety of Ishgar. No doubt the council, as well as the rest of the attendees, want answers."

Both Celestial wizards shivered when they were reminded of that day. Their eyes darted toward the Soul Reaper as the phantom pressure from his reiatsu made them clutch their elbows.

"So, when would this congregation be?" Ichigo questioned the two Wizard Saints.

"Two days from now," Jura answered. "That would give all invited attendees time to convene in the city of Era."

Ichigo nodded then turned to his guildmaster. "Is it possible to bring all of Fairy Tail to the gathering?"

Makarov raised a curious eyebrow at the request. "What for?"

"It's time I come clean," Ichigo answered with a resigned tone. "The guild already has some idea that I came from another world. It's only fair for them to finally know who I am and my family."

"I see." The old man then looked at Orihime and asked, "What are your thoughts on this, Orihime?"

"We've already discussed this a while back," the Shun Shun Rikka user began. "All of us, even Kazui, have agreed that it was only a matter of time before we reveal ourselves to the world. So, no, I don't have anything to say other than we're prepared for this."

"If that's the case, then I'll be informing the rest of Fairy Tail once I return to the guild hall." The old mage stared at the husband and wife with respect for their decision. "Know that no matter what happens, the guild has your support."

"Thanks, master," Orihime thanked.

"Then we'll be seeing you in two days," Jura interjected before bowing to the family. "Farewell Sir Ichigo, Lady Orihime, and Lady Yuzu."

With that, the two Wizard Saints left the Kurosaki premises.

Orihime leaned in on Lucy and asked. "Is Jura always that formal?"

Lucy nodded. "You have no idea."

"Hey, Dad," Kazui tugged his father's sleeve to get his attention. "What's going to happen once all these people find out who we are?"

The people the young reaper was referring to were the many guildmasters present within the halls of the Magic Council HQ. The Kurosaki family expected a lot of people attending but the numbers they projected weren't this much when the day they had to face the Magic Council came.

"Is that them?"

"I think so."

"So, that massive pressure came from him?"

"He doesn't look so tough."

"What's with the oversized swords? Is he compensating for something?"

"Ooh, la la! Look at those pair of knockers!"

Those were just some of the whispers and murmurs Ichigo heard from the gathered people, with the last one popping a vein on his head for being directed towards his wife. Going back to his son's question, he answered, "To be honest, I don't know."

Kazui looked to his mother and aunts for an answer.

"I'm sorry, sweetie," Orihime answered. "I don't know either."

"Me neither," Yuzu added.

"I have no clue whatsoever," Karin replied.

"Bummer," muttered Kazui, a little disappointed. The boy noticed that someone was missing. "Hey, where's big sis?"

"Oh. Yukino is with the rest of the guild," the mother of the boy answered. "Since she's a native to Earthland, Yukino doesn't have to be with us for the questioning."

"I see."

Just as they reach the meeting hall, they were greeted by a small squad of Rune Knights led by a man Ichigo was familiar with.

"Ichigo Kurosaki," Lahar greeted, holding a hand out to the family head.

"Marshall Lahar," Ichigo returned the greeting and shook the official's hand. "It's been a while."

"Not that much, though. I must thank you for helping us in subduing Raven Tail during the Grand Magic Games."

"I only did my part. Anyways, are you the welcoming committee?"

Lahar nodded. "That's right. The Magic Council has instructed us to guide you inside the meeting chambers. They thought that since this is your first time in Era, a little guidance would be needed."

"And my family appreciates it," said Ichigo with a respectful tone.

"Come along, then," gestured the officer. "My squadron prepared some beverages in a nearby lounge since some of the Wizard Saints and other dignitaries have still yet to arrive."

"You don't need to do that," Orihime expressed, seeing the kind gesture to be a bit excessive.

"It's the least I could do after what your husband did for us, Lady Orihime. Besides, this is all on me."

Ichigo and Orihime looked at each other. Their eyes shifted toward the others who just shrugged. In any case, who were they to reject a time to relax before a potential interrogation? With that decided, the family followed the commander of the 4th Custody Enforcement Unit to their designated common room before they proceed to the meeting hall.

Jura gazed at the gathering of guildmasters outside the Magic Council HQ. The 5th Wizard Saint was currently inside one of the building's private lounges, reserved only for the Wizard Saints. Currently, there were already seven out of the ten who were present. It was when the rock mage noticed the arrival of Fiore's monarchy that one of his fellow saints approached him.

"To think that a gathering like this would happen," commented the individual with an almost mechanical voice. "Truly, this Ichigo Kurosaki must be so powerful that all these people would be present just to confirm that he was indeed the source of the immense pressure."

The person who spoke was the 6th Wizard Saint, Centurion of Quatro Puppy. A member of the Machias race standing at nine feet, the living machine was covered from head to toe with pauldrons and his cuirass bore additional plating that protected his elbows and thigh joints. His guild mark was located on his right shoulder. A set of robes extended from his waist like a loincloth, and finally, his head resembled that of a crusader's helmet.

Known as the "Devastator of Evil," Centurion was famous for his Blast Magic. The Machias channels his magic into his gigantic swords, allowing him to create a chain of explosions that devastates anything in its path.

Literally, magic that screams, "Screw everything in that general direction!"

Acknowledging the presence of the sentient automaton, Jura described his experience during that fateful day. "You should've seen it, Centurion. The amount of pressure he released was unlike anything I've ever felt. I don't know how to describe it myself. For someone to exert his fury upon not just the capital but the entirety of Ishgar is just unfathomable."

"I don't doubt you, Jura," Centurion remarked. "I felt that pressure myself and I must say, nothing from my encounters with powerful wizards comes close to it."

"Can we even consider him a wizard?" posed Jura.

"That is a question only he can answer," the Machias admitted.

Jura only nodded, agreeing with the living machine. "I couldn't agree more."

However, somebody decided to join in on their conversation.

"My, my," an older voice sounded behind Jura and Centurion. "It seems this Ichigo Kurosaki has stirred quite a commotion."

Turning around, the 5th and 6th Wizard Saint noticed the presence of the 9th ranked within their circle, Solaseed.

Dubbed the "Warrior Nun," Solaseed is a woman in her late forties in an armored nun attire with chainmail serving as her main armor, a gladius forged from Damascus steel, and finally, a holy book she keeps as a token of her faith. She was once a prominent member of the Zentopia Church's Legion Corps, serving as its commander before Byro Cracy took her place after her retirement.

The former legionnaire uses the magic Arc of the Heavens, lost magic that allows her to wield purifying white light that extinguishes darkness and demonic opponents in battle. Truly, a form of magic that matches her religious background. However, what most people don't know was that Solaseed served as the foster parent of Sting Eucliff and Rogue Cheney before the twin dragon slayers joined Sabretooth.

"Lady Solaseed," Jura acknowledged the nun. "It's good to see you."

"Likewise, Jura," Solaseed answered. Her attention then fell to the Machias warrior. "How goes your hunting of dark guilds, Centurion?"

"So far, most guilds under Oración Seis and Grimoire Heart have either disbanded, been captured, or switched allegiances to Tartaros," answered Centurion. "I recently had an encounter with a budding dark guild that was rising in power known as Avatar."

"Avatar?" Solaseed questioned in mild surprise. "Right before I retired, I had an encounter with that guild. I thought I finally got rid of them."

"Then perhaps the core members managed to escape capture," Jura interjected.

"Not this time, though," Centurion commented. "I apprehended their guildmaster, Arlock. It's safe to assume that we won't be hearing anything from Avatar from now on."

"That's good," remarked Lamia Scale's ace. "With two of the Balam Alliance gone thanks to mostly the intervention of Fairy Tail, we are one step closer to achieving the peace we strived towards."

Solaseed chuckled at the mere mention of the infamous guild. "Fairy Tail," she muttered. "No matter where they go, they always make the council scratch their heads. Why I remember my last visit with the Legion Corps and seeing Byro training his soldiers to the ground. Though he somewhat lightened up after that whole Infinity Clock incident, he was still miffed that he lost to a bunch of rowdy mages."

"Where were you during that incident anyway?" Centurion inquired. "I would've thought you'd be involved with the conspiracy within Zentopia regardless of your retirement."

"I was in the Kingdom of Stella," answered the nun. "I only got the call a day after I returned to Fiore. Anyway, what's going to be the topic of discussion?"

"Aside from Ichigo Kurosaki? My guess would be the sudden increase in activity among dark guilds associated with Tartaros as well as what to do with Master Makarov now that he's back," answered Jura.

"I hear he was demoted to 10th rank," said Centurion. "Still, I wouldn't underestimate the old man just because his rank got lower."

"Well said," remarked Solaseed. "Where is the old geezer, by the way?"

The 5th and 6th ranked Wizard Saints pointed in the direction of the Fairy Tail master. Makarov was conversing with Warrod Sequen, the 4th-ranked Wizard Saint known by the epithet "Nature's Shepherd" for turning barren wastelands into lush forests with his Green Magic. Unbeknownst to the younger generation of Fairy Tail, Warrod happens to be one of the founding members of the guild along with the first master, Mavis Vermilion, Precht Gaebolg, and Yuri Dreyar.

"So, Mackie," Warrod began, "…any thoughts on getting demoted to 10th rank?"

Makarov just scoffed at the mention of his ranking. "Aside from the bragging rights, I could care less if they removed me from the roster altogether!"

"Well, that would be a shame then," said Warrod a little disappointed. "I'd have fewer people to talk to if you were removed from the Wizard Saints. Hyberion likes to keep to himself while Wolfheim can be a stick in the mud."

Makarov deadpanned. "Are you sure you should be saying that to Wolfheim?"

"IT'S A JOKE! IT'S A JOKE!" was the reply the whimsical Warrod gave.

The third master just groaned at his predecessor's strange behavior and smacked a hand on his head. "I just want to retire and leave all this stuff to someone younger."

"You and me both," the tree-like mage agreed. "I've been alive for at most a century and I always believed that we should let the younger generation take over."

"I know. It's just that nobody in the guild is suited to lead it."

Curious, Warrod probed. "How so?"

Makarov started enumerating. "Well, Erza's too young. Laxus still needs to mature a bit after what he did." The old man referred to the hostile takeover his grandson attempted a while back. "…And don't even get me started on Gildarts! That idiot immediately handed the position back to me after I named him 5th guildmaster."

"So, technically, you're the 6th guildmaster," Warrod asked. When Makarov gave a dejected nod, the century-old mage burst into a fit of laughter. "Yup. Just as how I remembered Fairy Tail…unpredictable."

With a hefty sigh leaving the wizened mage, Makarov came to an idea regarding a potential candidate to take over his position. "On second thought, there is someone who could become my successor."

"Oh? Who might that be?" Warrod got a knowing stare from the dwarf mage. It didn't take long for the founding member to realize what Makarov meant. "Really?" he expressed. "I dare say, that's quite bold of you, Makarov."

"Out of everyone in the guild, he is the only one with the heart, experience, compassion, and resolve to lead Fairy Tail into the future."

Warrod merely smiled, respecting Makarov's choice. "Then you have my support for your chosen successor."

"Thank you, Warrod," Makarov said in gratitude. However…

"IT'S A JOKE! IT'S A JOKE!"

"Oh, for goodness' sake," muttered the balding old mage.

"But seriously, though. You do have my support."

Gray was confused. While walking towards the meeting hall within the Magic Council HQ, he noticed something bizarre. Natsu and Lisanna were sticking close to each other. And by close to each other, he meant clingy like they don't want to be separated. The ice wizard wasn't the only one, though. Every member of the guild noticed this and simultaneous question marks popped into their heads. When the heck did this happen? Well, nobody had the answer to that. However, there were at least three who had an idea.

Being a dragon slayer meant you get enhanced senses. Enhanced strength, speed, agility, and in this case, heightened sense of smell. They could discern different scents and identify which one belongs to whom. Right now, Laxus, Gajeel, and Wendy were all registering the scent given off by Lisanna. It was still hers but it also had Natsu's all over it. That alone made them realize that the pinkette had marked the youngest Strauss.

…And no. It's not some cliché physical mark that magically appears on someone. Marking means leaving your scent all over someone that's yours, thereby letting everybody else know that the individual is off-limits. However, such an act needed thorough contact between the pair. This only means one thing…

Natsu and Lisanna had done the deed.

It was surprising, to say the least, that the most clueless when it comes to relationships get to taste heaven first. Laxus and Gajeel initially felt jealous that the idiot got some action before them but eventually felt proud of the "accomplishment."

"Well, I'll be damned," remarked Laxus with a knowing grin.

"I guess the fire breather isn't as clueless as I thought," added Gajeel.

As for Wendy, she knew what her two fellow slayers meant. This made her blush up a storm while the thought of Natsu and Lisanna doing something…intimate occupied her mind rent-free.

"Ummm, Wendy?" Lucy called, noticing the face of the little dragon slayer matching Erza's hair color. "Why are you so red?"

The girl didn't answer. Instead, she just cupped her cheeks as her mind lingered on her fellow dragon slayer and his white-haired partner's recent "activity."

"Leave her be, Lucy," Carla advised. "I'm sure that with her senses, she must've caught something that made her this flustered." It was just a random guess, but little did the cat know how right she was.

Meanwhile, Elfman was gritting his teeth, seeing as Natsu was too close to her baby sister. "I'm going to pulverize him," muttered the big man while cracking his knuckles.

Mira, on the other hand, wasn't all that bothered with how his sister and the dragon slayer were close. They've been close since they were kids. So, it wasn't at all surprising for them to grow even closer. "Come on, Elfman," the white-haired beauty said with a serene smile. "There's nothing wrong with Natsu and Lisanna spending time together. They've done it in the past, so what's the difference now?"

"I swear," Elfman had this dark aura as he grits his teeth. "If Natsu does something inappropriate to Lisanna, I'll tear him apart, put him back together…AND RIP HIM AGAIN!" That last part startled the rest of the mages, making them back off from the hulking man in fear of his wrath. Much to Elfman's chagrin, the couple was way passed that point.

Speaking of the couple, Lisanna suddenly felt dizzy. Natsu saw this and quickly offered a hand to help her from falling over.

"Are you alright?" Natsu asked his partner with worry.

"I'm fine, Natsu," replied Lisanna even if she was still feeling a little lightheaded.

"Come on," the dragon slayer directed. "Let's find you a seat so you could rest."

The teen didn't complain since she was feeling a little under the weather. Natsu, with an arm around Lisanna's waist, guided her to a nearby chair to give her some much-needed rest.

This interaction between the two definitely raised some suspicions among the many members of Fairy Tail.

"Yup. Something definitely happened between those two," Gray thought.

"I wish my beloved Gray would show the same care towards Juvia," mentally cried Juvia as her fantasies ran rampant again.

"See, Elfman?" Mirajane pointed out. "We have nothing to worry about."

"Still, I'm not letting my eyes off of them," answered the burly man.

While everybody else was busy thinking about Natsu and Lisanna, Yukino was worried about her new family. She was told to stay with the rest of the guild while they were being questioned. The silver-haired teen agreed, albeit with much convincing.

Yukino lifted her hand to gaze at her wrist. There, dangling from its bracelet, was the Quincy cross her foster family crafted specifically for her. Though little and frail-looking, the item would be considered her most valuable possession, maybe as valuable as her keys. The cross was the first gift she had received from them, symbolizing their acceptance of her into their family as well as her first steps into becoming Earthland's first Quincy.

The Celestial mage sighed, worried about the outcome this gathering might come to. She knew that people tend to fear the unknown. The power Ichigo unleashed upon the entirety of Ishgar was beyond anything magic could ever accomplish. It was only due to her pleading that the death god ceased his reiatsu to flow. However, the damage was done. Despite the truth of his kindness and willingness to protect the innocent, the magic community was afraid of the man behind the unspeakable power that permeated the entire continent.

"Yukino?"

"Hmm?" Hearing Lucy's voice, the Quincy trainee turned to her fellow Celestial wizard. "What is it, Lucy?"

"You seem kind of down," Lucy observed. "Is something on your mind?"

"It's nothing," Yukino dismissed. However, her fellow stellar mage didn't buy it.

"It's about Ichigo and the others, isn't it?"

"Am I that easy to read?"

"Not really, but who wouldn't be worried about their parents?"

"Anyone would," answered the Quincy trainee. "It's just that, people tend to be afraid of what they don't understand. Ichigo…Dad is the nicest person I've ever met but I'm concerned that the people will only see a monster instead of the kind man that took me in."

Lucy was about to answer Yukino when somebody joined in their conversation.

"As far as I can see, he doesn't care if he was viewed as such."

It was Erza who answered. The redhead still remembered the short discussion she had with the reaper and it was what influenced her view of Ichigo as a person.

"From what I understand," the knight began explaining, "Ichigo will help anyone regardless of who they are. That's just his nature. He will protect the innocent and risk himself for the sake of others despite the consequences it might bring. However, he is willing to go far and beyond for those closest to him."

"It sounds like what you're saying came from Ichigo himself," Lucy commented. She guessed right.

"It is," answered Erza to Lucy and Yukino's surprise.

"When did you have this conversation?" inquired a curious Yukino.

"You were still held captive back in Crocus when he and I talked about this," replied Erza. "He was moments away from killing Minerva after gutting her in front of a live audience."

The two Celestial mages gasped in horror at the brutality Ichigo did. "H-He d-did what?" the blonde mage stammered.

Erza continued, "It was a good thing I managed to stop him. To be honest, I at first questioned why he would resort to such methods. Then I realized the loss he and his family suffered. All that he has left and everything he has gained; he will protect it all by any means necessary." The redhead paused, replaying that encounter with Ichigo and his answer. "He said that protection is all about sacrifice and I have no doubt that he has sacrificed so much more than the guild combined. Ichigo won't hesitate. He will kill if need be. Sometimes, we have to get our hands dirty for the world to stay clean. He will sully his hands, be the one to take on the shadows, and even cross the line so that we never have to. That's how far he's willing to go to protect those he cares for. That's his resolve."

After hearing the knight's words, Lucy and Yukino had their head down in deep contemplation. The latter never imagined Ichigo to go to such lengths for them. As for the former, she knew all too well what kind of price the man will pay at the end of his life. The blonde still believed it wasn't fair. However, that was Ichigo's choice. That's how much the reaper was willing to sacrifice to protect them. He will bear the world and even be viewed as a monster but in the end, Ichigo wouldn't care as long as everybody is safe.

"He really is 'The Protector'," murmured Lucy.

Yukino heard the fellow wizard and simply nodded. Still, she didn't want her new father to bear such a self-imposed burden upon himself. She wanted to share it as a way to thank him for his kindness.

That said, the newly-christened Quincy was still a long way from accomplishing this. She needed to get stronger because now, she had a new goal to accomplish along with her original one. With a determined gaze, Yukino promised herself, "I will get stronger. I will find my sister and after that, I will help Ichigo protect this family. It's the least I could for becoming my father and welcoming me into his family when I needed it the most."

"You've got to admit, this place is fancy," Karin remarked after taking a sip of the beverage provided by Lahar's contingent. "They even have the latest issue of Sorcerer Magazine!"

"You're enjoying this too much, aren't you, sis?" Yuzu deadpanned. She then looked at the various paintings of past chairmen displayed in the common room they were in. Her eyes stopped on the previous chairman before Gran Doma. "This is Crawford Seam, right?"

"Yeah," Ichigo answered. "He led the Magic Council before the Etherion incident forced him to retire. Ultear and Jellal really did cause some ruckus back then."

"At least they're reformed now," Orihime chirped. "I'm glad that they helped us deal with the whole Eclipse incident back in Crocus."

"I am too," Ichigo agreed. "Say, honey, have you managed to fix that sword I gave you?"

Orihime nodded. "I did," she replied. "However, I left it at our house."

"That's okay. We did seal the place with a barrier Kidō in case some nutjob tries to break in." Ichigo was referring to Natsu's habit of breaking into people's houses. Surrounding their home with a protective spell would prevent the rowdy fire mage from entering their place without permission. "Poor Lucy."

"Hey," Karin called the others. "I just remembered that a Sorcerer Magazine reporter will visit the guild tomorrow. Mira said that the guy, Jason was his name, will be doing a series of short interviews with the participants of the Grand Magic Games. You know what that means, right?"

"Ugh…" Ichigo could only groan in annoyance. "This is one of the reasons why I didn't want to go public."

"Oh, Mira also mentioned that the reporter was searching for some new models for the magazine. She recommended you and Orihime," Karin added.

Ichigo was drinking a glass of fresh juice but spat that out after hearing what Mira did. "She did what!? WHY!?"

"Mira said you and Orihime were the hottest couple right now. So, she submitted your names for the shortlist."

Sighing, the carrot top just palmed his face and dragged his hand over it. "Where the heck does that girl get her crazy ideas from?" As far as he's concerned, he wasn't interested. Heck, he didn't want the attention, period. However…

"I think it's a great idea," remarked Orihime.

Ichigo could only stare in surprise at his wife. After ten seconds, he shook his head and asked the woman, "You're not serious, are you, sweetie?"

"It'd be fun to try something new," was the only reason Orihime gave.

"Listen, honey…" Ichigo was about to persuade her to rethink but instead, saw something he wished his wife didn't use. "Ahh…shit. Not this."

Orihime was making the most adorable face she could muster. Her eyes began to sparkle and her cheeks were rosy pink. This was the same expression Kazui uses when he wants something and guess who he learned it from.

Ichigo tried to squirm away but Orihime inched closer. The woman was right in his face and he couldn't say no to it. "Oh, goddamn it!" Sighing in defeat, the man of the family reluctantly agreed. "Alright, honey, you win."

The woman in question cheered before hugging her husband and giving him a quick peck on the cheek. "Thank you, dear."

Not far from where the couple was, Kazui just giggled at his father's unfortunate predicament. "Teehee."

"Not a word, young man," Ichigo grumbled at Kazui. The kid quickly stopped his teasing and began whistling innocently.

After that little scene, the Kurosaki family was back to doing their own thing. As for the patriarch, his mind was wandering around his conversation with Makarov while on the way to Era.

***FLASHBACK***

As the members of Fairy Tail began their journey to the city of Era, Ichigo conversed with Makarov regarding the Wizard Saints. He never met any one of them except for the master and Jura. It'd be good to know who he'll be dealing with while they're headed to the Magic Council HQ via carriage ride.

"Hey, old man," Ichigo called. "Mind giving me the names of the other Wizard Saints? I have a general idea of what they are but I haven't got a clue on who is recognized as one."

"Well," Makarov began, "…they are recognized as the ten strongest wizards in Ishgar by the council. The four strongest were so powerful that they aren't even considered human, giving them the moniker 'The Four Gods of Ishgar.' Meanwhile, the mage who ranks 5th is considered as the strongest human mage; a title held currently by Jura."

"Well, that's a bit over the top," remarked the reaper.

"That said, they are the mages recognized by the Magic Council. This means that there could potentially be other wizards who could make the roster who are either unknown or intentionally avoiding attention. Gildarts is an example."

"I can see that…"

"…And, although your power isn't magic, you could still be offered a position since you just demonstrated you're stronger than Jura," commented Makarov. "Heck, you could even overpower the top four considering the majority of your strength is sealed away."

"Let's not get ahead of ourselves," Ichigo interrupted. "Although the offer would be flattering, I don't think I'd like that kind of attention."

"Understandable," Makarov mumbled. "Anything else?"

"Yeah. How do the Wizard Saints function? Are they some sort of team or something?"

Shaking his head, the wizened Titan mage replied, "As a matter of fact, the saints are anything but a team."

That got Ichigo's attention. "What do you mean?"

"Despite sharing the same title, the Wizard Saints have never once operated as a cohesive group. They prefer to mind their own business and do whatever they please such as performing solo missions or running a guild like myself. The only time when all Wizard Saints are together was during meetings and even then, not all would attend."

Ichigo frowned after hearing this. Despite holding such a prestigious title, the Wizard Saints act more like glorified asshats. It got him to suspect something. "Maybe that's why none of them bothered to come and help with the Eclipse Conspiracy."

Makarov had to disagree. "It's not that simple Ichigo but you aren't wrong either. Some of the saints get sent on high-level missions in foreign nations sanctioned by the Magic Council itself while others hunt down the most dangerous dark guilds. Though some would indeed dismiss the incident at Crocus, the others would quickly offer assistance during that tumultuous event."

"At least you and Jura are decent people," remarked the reaper, making Makarov chuckle. "Say, Makarov, do you know some of the Wizard Saints aside from Jura?"

"I personally know Warrod Sequen, one of the Four Gods of Ishgar," answered the Titan mage. "In fact, Warrod is actually one of the founders of Fairy Tail."

"Really?" Ichigo asked, a little surprised at that info.

"He is a kind man who loves nature," Makarov described. His face gradually morphed into a deadpan. "Although, the geezer might irritate you with his rather strange sense of humor."

The carrot top just shrugged. "It won't be the first time I've dealt with weirdos," Ichigo said referring to his father, Isshin. He then let Makarov continue.

"As far as I can remember, the positions previously held by Jose Porla and Jellal were left vacant when the Tenrō crew went under for seven years. The Magic Council must've at least filled out these spots during that time."

"How about your position?"

"I won't be surprised if I got demoted or removed from the roster altogether. The individuals who I'm certain retained their standing were the first four. I already told you about Warrod, so I think I should mention the other three.

"Taking the third spot is Wolfheim. I'd warn you right now that the man has some anger issues. He wields the magic known as 'Ultimate Destruction Incarnate' which lets him turn into a raging beast of unrivaled strength, earning him the name 'Beast Lord.'

"Next is Draculos Hyberion. From my few encounters with the man, I can say he is very sophisticated and very open-minded. However, do not underestimate the man because of his approachable demeanor. He possesses what's called 'Vampire Magic,' giving him a variety of vampire-based powers. It's the reason why he was called 'The Ultimate Vampire.'

"So, we basically have a Count Dracula knock-off," thought the Kurosaki patriarch with a snicker. "Who's the last one then?"

"God Serena." Makarov's reply was somewhat restrained, like the mere mention of this person invoked absolute authority. "From what I've gathered, he is similar to Laxus."

"A second-generation dragon slayer," Ichigo guessed.

"Correct," confirmed the old mage. "Rumor has it that he was a product of a secret experiment conducted by the Bureau of Magical Development under the supervision of Brain called Project Hybrid Theory. They implanted eight dragon king lacrimas into God Serena's body, turning him into the most powerful dragon slayer of this generation."

The adult reaper was actually surprised. He had sufficient knowledge on the subject and he knew that infusing a lacrima into the body was risky. To think that God Serena had survived having eight implanted into him was astounding. That said, power like that can go into someone's head.

"He's a jerk, isn't he?" Ichigo questioned.

Makarov's face scrunched up into a distasteful expression and said, "The biggest one!" shouted the wizened mage. "That pompous buffoon thinks he's on top of the world just because he's number one. What I'd give to knock him down a peg or two."

"Easy there, old timer." Ichigo tried calming down the irritated Makarov. "Being this pissed isn't good for your heart."

"Hmph! If I had my way, you'd easily make the top spot among the Wizard Saints."

"And I'll say it again, I don't like the attention it will bring."

"That stunt you pulled in Crocus was attention-grabbing at its finest."

Hanging his head in defeat, Ichigo had no rebuttal for that one. "You got me there."

"Well, anyway, that's all I could give you. Of course, there's Solaseed, Cassandra Brosnan, and two new members that I have yet to meet."

"I see." Letting the information sink in, Ichigo leaned back into his seat and thanked Makarov for telling him about the Wizard Saints.

***FLASHBACK END***

Ichigo's thoughts were disturbed when a knock came on the door. Turning his attention to the sound, the adult reaper and the rest of his family saw Lahar enter the lounge.

"It's time," was all the marshal said.

Knowing what it means, the carrot top stood up and proceeded to exit the common room along with Orihime, Kazui, Yuzu, and Karin.

Following Lahar and two Rune Knights, the Kurosaki finally reached the entrance to the conference hall, barred by a massive double door of intricate design. The soldiers following the marshal took one door each and pushed it forward.

The interior design felt medieval yet sophisticated. On either side of the room were balconies that were currently occupied by the Fiorian Royal Family on the right while the Ten Wizard Saints sat on the left. In the middle of these balconies was an elevation where the ten officials of the Magic Council stood. On the ground were raised seats occupied by the members of Fairy Tail while across it was the same raised seats taken by the people making up the Guildmaster's League. In the center of the hall was a podium which the Kurosaki family stood behind as they faced the councilmen.

The current chairman of the committee, Gran Doma, raised his staff and slammed the bottom tip to the ground, thereby silencing all who were present.

"With everyone in attendance, let us begin this conference."

A/N: I'M BACK! After three months of planning and writing, I bring to you, my beloved readers, the return of Reapers Among Fairies. First and foremost, with the help of ExcaliburShooter and Warmachine375, I have added a few elements to the story that was missing in the cannon Fairy Tail; mainly the vacant seats among the Ten Wizard Saints. After much deliberation and input from Warmachine375, I've added a few OCs that would help move the plot forward, especially during the Alvarez Invasion Arc. He provided me with names and powers for the new Saints as well as added power sets to the Four Gods Ishgar whose abilities were vague at best. For the Tartaros Arc, I have three OC Arrancars that were already mentioned in Chapter 25, and with the aid of ExcaliburShooter, everything needed for the battle against the Etherius is ready.

Above all else, let us all celebrate the return of Bleach and IchiGOAT! After ten long years of waiting and ridicule from the anime community, we finally get to see the anime in all its crisp and vibrant animated glory. I know some of you have already watched the first episode but I still haven't yet. That's why, for now, I will be leaving you to enjoy the first chapter of this story after three months while I watch the first episode of Bleach.

As always, leave a comment or like the story if you find it enjoyable (I know my old readers will be ecstatic about this return).

See you next chapter.