Chapter 12 - Interlude of Battle
Fairy Tail Guild, hours after defeat of Laxus
The needless fighting was finally over. Laxus was beaten and his three associates from the Raijinshuu were turned into pigs and awaiting punishment from Makarov. It was hilarious to say, but it looked like Laxus was getting off easy as his wounds were very serious. Leaving him to be tended to while the pigs were forced into a pen to wait for their master.
What was worse was that despite having bandages over his mouth. Natsu was salivating as he gazed upon the three wizards with a look of hunger in his eyes.
"You should not attempt to devour them. They may give you indigestion." Circe said as she was checking her nails.
"HMMM HMMM HMMM!" Natsu said likely trying to say that he didn't care what she thought and wanted to eat them right now.
"WRYYYYY!" the three pigs squealed knowing Natsu is very hungry right now.
However things quickly got silent once Laxus appeared. Everyone stared at him with angry stares. Some full of loathing and others full of disappointment for his actions. That despite proving himself to be tough, Laxus went as far as to harm his own guild members to take a guild by force. Now that he realized the error of his ways, he couldn't help but feel shameful as he walked up to his grandfather's office after he was discharged from the infirmary.
All the while hearing the murmurs about the guild asking why he was still here after what he did.
Makarov's office
As expected, Makarov did not look too pleased. The old man loved his grandson, he really did but this was a dangerous and stupid act. So Makarov couldn't be merciful as this wouldn't help Laxus learn in the future and would only encourage everyone else's rampage of destruction.
"You know why you are here Laxus." Makarov started off.
Laxus nodded, "It's pretty obvious old man." he said already knowing what might happen.
"Then you should understand the dire consequences Laxus. You may be my grandson, but for some unforeseen reason you disregarded the guild's teachings passed down since the first master, Mavis Vermillion. As well as put the lives of not only your fellow wizards, but innocents as well." Makarov explained reminding Laxus of the ramifications. "However I do not want to belittle you. No, instead I realize this is my own fault." he said blaming himself.
This greatly surprised Laxus.
"Perhaps I haven't done my best after excommunicating your father. So you often blamed me for that as well as thinking you were only in my shadow." Makarov said as the guild didn't end. "However today's events made me realize I've been too soft on you." he said.
'Here it comes.' Laxus thought with a sigh.
"Be mindful, I did think about this for a good length of time and Lucy did put in her two cents." Makarov said once again surprising Laxus. "Seeing as your situation lead you to use rather shady and dangerous equipment. I think what's best is a suspension." he continued.
"Suspension?" Laxus asked sounding very confused.
Makarov nodded, "A temporary excommunication. I was surprised hearing this from Lucy who you've done a poor job of welcoming. So with her own experience and expertise on the matter. I believe you should have one last chance, after this I can't accept more trouble my grandson." he said making Laxus hang his head.
Laxus gave a weak smile, "I was saved by some girl dressed like a fantasy miko then. I guess I'll take the punishment old man. I'll leave this afternoon." he said only to be stopped for one more thing.
At the same time, in the Throne Room of Mateus
The Oracion Seis is a powerful group of dark mages. What they lack in numbers and resources that some dark guilds have, they make up for it in strategy, achievements and power. Cooperation being a major reason behind the fear and caution they've created in Fiore. Though not as large and dangerous as Grimoire Heart, Oracion Seis isn't something to take lightly.
Their leader, a powerful and intelligent mage going by the name Brain. His five subordinates being composed of an artificial dragon slayer, Cobra. A speedster named Racer. A greedy earth mage named Hoteye. A beauty dressed like an angel named Angel. Finally a mysterious androgynous yet sleepy named male named Midnight.
Currently, these six were waiting for the Emperor himself who had recently joined the Balam Alliance and was hoping to meet with them.
"What the hell is taking this upstart so long?" asked Cobra who was getting impatient by the minute.
"Be patient Cobra. This may be important." Brain said having heard rumors of the emperor's power.
"He's probably some rich guy wanting a lot of control like every other wannabe." Cobra said believing the emperor to be a weakling hiding behind wealth.
His insults ended once Mateus came in and sat down on his throne. With his guards standing by his side and prepared to tear down whoever wishes to harm their leader. The dark mages were also unaware of the many faces of Hassan who were watching in the corners and shadows of the room.
"Finally!" Cobra said.
Mateus did not like this tone, "Is there a problem? I invited you to my abode and you speak as if waiting a few minutes is the same as agonizing pain." he asked in a challenging tone.
"Well it would help if your pompous ass hurried up. Did run out of your name brand lipstick or something?" Cobra asked only to feel a heavy amount of magic pressure aimed at him.
Though it was perfectly directed at Cobra. His fellow members were feeling a searing pain through their bodies from how much energy was leaked. Though it was Cobra and his snake, Cubellios who took the worst of it as he was drenched in sweat and on his knees from the intense power he felt against him.
'This man is stronger than he looks. The appearance of a monarch hides his true power.' Brain thought as he feared the man.
"I recommend you learn patience and manners. As for the rest of you, I expect you to keep your pet human on a short leash." Mateus said Hassan started peaking his head out to further intimidate him.
Making everyone as stiff as a board.
Brain stepped forward with a bow of his, "I take full responsibility for Cobra's actions your majesty. This will not happen again." he said bringing the fear of god onto Cobra.
"I would expect nothing less." Mateus said with his words sounding more like a threat than a warning.
Racer and Hoteye helped up their pseudo dragon slayer but gave him a warning, "When I wanted to be fast. I never said I wanted my life to end fast!" Racer whispered.
"I can't earn the money I need if you kill us!" Hoteye also whispered.
Then the attention was back to Mateus, "As I was planning to say. In time, the legal guilds will arrive in attempt to defeat the six of you. Knowing this, you have a good chance of winning due to experience and willingness to not hold back as those wizards typically have more... morality." he said unsure of what else to describe such weaknesses like compassion.
"Of course your majesty. Wizards fight for "justice" or some crap right?" Racer asked earning a nod.
"I see not all of you are fools." Mateus said as the group earned some points in respect. Matues adjusted himself on his throne as he continued, "However, even with the assistance of the small platoon of your dark mage guilds working under you. I'm afraid winning may be much more difficult." he said earning confused looks.
"Your majesty, if I may." Angel said hoping not to invoke his wrath for interrupting him. "Is there a reason you lack faith in us?" she winced expecting some anger.
"I was going to explain that. Yes I lack faith, but not because the wizards are potentially powerful foes. No, for no doubt a certain powerful mage I know will be involved. If not, then I do have the "game changer" as younger people would call it." Mateus explained.
Soon enough, another member of the faces of Hassan appeared. The masked assassin revealed a box and opened it to reveal several cards. Class cards to be exact, but unfortunately nowhere near the perfect capabilities as the ones Ventus created. For even the ones Laxus and Bickslow had were able to function but had difficulty controlling due to poor connections to the user. At best, Mateus was giving them another sword and shield that are rusty and could break.
"Playing cards?" Racer asked.
"No." Mateus said with the shake of his head. "Class cards, they grant you the ability of ancient warriors of a forgotten time. Many with powers that are beyond modern man for history had shaken the world in its heyday." he explained.
"So in other words, abilities of warriors that potentially surpass many of the modern day. How intriguing." Brain said as the concept made him curious.
There are many powerful wizards and figures in history. Many long forgotten but had an effect on the world in some shape or form. Unknown to him, many having abilities granted by the gods themselves with others growing strong on their own to potentially challenge the gods on equal ground.
"Sounds useful, it's free and efficient. Unless there is a catch that is." Hoteye pointed out.
"Nothing specific yet, just a way to establish partnership with the Balam Alliance. After all, I'm not the only one with powerful allies." Mateus responded cryptically.
Brain picked up on this, "You said someone you know would potentially arrive. One with allies that you mentioned?" he asked curiously.
Mateus nodded, "By chance, have you heard of the Holy Maiden?" he asked.
Back at Fairy Tail, Parade
The festivities are going off to an amazing start. Thanks to some charismatic words (lies), everyone believed that the explosions that came from the lightning lacrima were actually poorly time fireworks along with a complicated story behind the cathedral's destruction. Nonetheless, Fairy Tail was able to continue their festivities despite having to temporarily exile Laxus. Though it could be worse, much worse than the rest of his team who have to live as pigs for two weeks.
Along with listening to Gajeel's singing rehearsals.
(NOTE: R0tatcid Productions is not responsible for any war crimes caused by Gajeel Redfox's singing.)
While Laxus did give into the mysterious donor who gave him corrupted and incomplete class cards. He did give into the idea that he deserved to be guild master and that the guild should live by the standards of a harsh code revolving around strength dictating morality. However the funny part is Laxus completely forgot that despite his immense speed and strength, Gildarts is several leagues ahead of him in being the strongest.
Regardless, this was a good time for him to reflect and see if he's worthy of returning to the guild. Hopefully becoming stronger in another way besides using his muscles. For now, he was watching over the parade as Fairy Tail was doing it's best to provide a fancy show to entertain the massive crowd that arrived.
Watching the wizards on their floats, flaring their magic and just having fun. The servants finding a way to participate as well. Laxus could see Circe holding onto Robin Hood's arm as they ride a chariot being pulled on by his teammates in pig form.
"Hurry up!" Robin Hood shouted.
"We're trying!" Bickslow shouted back only for Circe to bust out a whip.
"Is that necessary!?" Freed asked fearfully.
"Yes, now hurry up you swines!" Circe yelled as she kept whipping them.
Right behind them was Gilgamesh sitting on his aircraft, Vimana. With Ishtar, Erishkigal, Sakata Kintoki and Quetzalcoatl throwing candy bags for the children from the sides. For the first two goddesses, it felt strange as Lucy took a long time to make a temporary homunculus body for one of them to use. Nonetheless, they were both stuck with candy duty while Gilgamesh waved around like the Great King he considers himself to be.
It's a good thing he was in Caster form as he was less rude and more concerned with citizens than his pride.
"Thank you my amazing subjects! Your appearance alone warms my heart!" Gilgamesh said earning some cheers.
Sakata snickered, "He's so golden." he said continuing to throw candy bags.
Ishtar scoffed, "Stupid humbled demigod." she says before Gilgamesh throws a bag at her head. "Hey!" she whined.
"I apologize goddess. I did not see you there." Gilgamesh said lying through his teeth.
Earning the ire of the Goddess of Heaven, "Why you!" she yelled only for Erishkigal to hold her sister back.
From there, many of the lily servants were wearing adorable outfits and dancing around with Jeanne, Atalanta and Medea supervising them. Though there were issues with keeping Medea away from some of them as she wanted to keep dressing them up. Especially Artoria Lilly who was at this point, very afraid of her.
Meanwhile, Laxus was looking from far away with tears in his eyes at the next thing.
Makarov raised his hand and pointed at the sky while presenting the back of his hand.
"When we get seperated, I'll do this. That way we can never be apart grandpa." were the words of a younger Laxus in his childhood.
Reminding the man that even if he's gone today. Laxus still had a home to return should he decide to strengthen his own heart. Rather than his muscles or his power.
"Goodbye grandpa." Laxus said before turning his back and leaving for new horizons to clear his mind.
Though unaware of Arthur who was watching him from a distance. At the same time, staring at the photo he showed to Lucy and Makarov of the timeline where Laxus married Lucy.
"Goodbye... father." Arthur muttered before turning and heading back to the parade.
A few days later
As the festival ended, the guild returned to its normal self. Meaning back to the usual roughhousing and people celebrating in their own ways. Both usual scenes unless some of them actually planned to take a job request. Nab being a prominent wizard who was constantly working ever since Dark Lucy scared him since the Eisenwald incident. Though while routine does feel old, Lucy and some of the others preferred to rest and drown out the sounds of insanity.
Like Natsu who was dancing around on a table with Plue and Happy by his side.
"It's never a boring day in Fairy Tail is it?" Lucy asked.
"Do I need to answer that question Lu-chan?" Mira asked back.
Lucy giggled, "I guess this is the definition of peace for the guild." she said now having her question answered.
Mira giggled before looking around, "Hey where's Shirou and the other boys?" she asked.
"Arthur needed to borrow Virgo for reasons I've yet to be told and Shirou is with Ventus somewhere, but Vincent is watching them." Lucy answered.
With Ventus
Ventus stood outside of a new ramen shop that just opened up. It was strange but apparently the owner bought the place just as Fantasia took place. It didn't make a lot of sense but he was hungry and decided to have his future nephew follow him inside. Though Vincent was a bit suspicious as well and kept his guard up and his gun fully loaded.
Just as Ventus and Shirou took their seats. Vincent couldn't help but to feel a familiar aroma. Maybe he felt some nostalgia or something around the food in the shop. However, his senses kicked into overdrive the moment he would hear Ventus scream in terror.
"Welcome to Kotomine's Ramen shop, may I take your order?" asked a young female.
Ventus put down the menu, "Yeah, can I have a... AHHHHHHH!" he screamed fearfully as he fell off the stool and crawled backwards.
Vincent jumped in and drew his gun, "What's wrong?" he asked.
Ventus pointed at the girl, "The devil! The devil is here!" he yelled frantically.
Vincent turned his head only to holster his gun, "How peculiar to see you here Lady Caren." he said before turning back to Ventus. "Ventus, be nice to your girlfriend. You can't call her a devil." he said.
"She is a devil!" Ventus argued only for Caren to giggle.
"Oh Ven-kun, such a joker. Please, sit down and let me cook for you." Caren said in a seemingly angelic tone.
While Ventus was still fearful, Shirou looked confused, "Who's that?" he asked.
"Caren Hortensia, if she's here then no doubt her father Kirei is somehow here as well." Vincent said just as he heard a bowl being placed.
"Yes, I am the one serving the ramen." Kirei said revealing himself and his ever present stoic face.
Vincent immediately looked down on the ramen, "Shirou you don't wish to eat that." he said.
Shirou chose to ignore his mother's guardian and ate from the bowl anyways.
A few seconds later
Shirou was unconscious as he was face first on the bowl of ramen.
"I'm guessing too much spice?" Kirei asked while actually looking curious.
Ventus groaned, "Lucy is going to get mad when she sees this." he said as he wasn't meant to handle children.
Then Arthur appeared while holding Virgo's hand, "This place looks nice I think..." he stopped as he saw Shirou and everyone else inside. Along with Shirou being unconscious, "I think we should go elsewhere." he suggested.
"Should I be punished?" Virgo asked.
Back at the guild, a few minutes later
Natsu was still being his silly self. No one was sure if he was just too energetic or was craving attention. Yet it ended with Gray running up to the table he was standing on.
"Hey flame head! Fight me!" Gray demanded.
"You want another beat down snow princess!?" Natsu asked before tackling the ice mage.
Once again starting another brawl in the guild, "It's that time of the day again." Mira said. Though surprisingly enough she saw Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla throwing punches at each other, "Um Lucy." she said.
"Scientists hate each other Mira. They contradict each other especially if the get jealous. It could only get worse if Michelangelo was here and got into a fight with Leonardo." Lucy replied as Mira stared at the artist in the female body.
"Hey Lu-chan, while we're talking about art. How's the next book?" Levy asked.
Lucy gave a weak chuckle, "I've been a bit behind and with the fiasco. Though, thanks to Carmilla winning for me. I think I came up with a good way to speed up my writing efficiency." she said.
Then the girls turned to see Elizabeth and Carmilla arguing. From the looks of it, the pink haired dragon was glaring at the taller vampiress.
"It's not fair, it should be my win! I'm the real Elizabeth Bathory!" Elizabeth argued.
"You are just a little girl that the Throne of Heroes created. I am the true Elizabeth Bathory and the winner of the pageant! Therefore this blue ribbon belongs to me!" Carmilla explained.
"You're just some old hag from a book written by an Irishman!" Elizabeth accused as she tried stealing the blue ribbon away.
"I take offense to that!" yelled Cu Chulainn, Diarmuid, Fergus and Fionn who all sounded angry at the insult.
Elizabeth scoffed, "Why are there so many Irishmen?" she asked.
Carmilla pushed her counterpart away, "Probably because they don't like annoying little girls who can't keep their hands to themselves." she said.
Lucy groaned, "This used to hurt my head when I started collecting them." she said as Levy gently patted her friend's head.
Then finding another headache as Ventus came running in with Shirou on his back screaming, "The devil has arrived!"
Lucy groaned loudly as she sat up, "What happened?" she asked now sounding too tired.
"The devil big sister! The devil has returned!" Ventus shouts while pointing at the door way.
Revealing Kirei and Caren, "What the heck?" Lucy asked as she rubbed her eyes.
It took about a minute for Lucy to register what she saw, 'Ok, my old teacher is still alive and his daughter is here.' she thought as she wondered how to handle this. A moment later she just patted Ventus's head, "Be nice to your girlfriend." she said.
"She's not my girlfriend! She's evil!" Ventus continued to shout.
Lucy then realized Shirou was unconscious, "What happened to Shirou?" she asked.
"Ramen, now hide me!" Ventus said as she ran behind the bar where Mira was.
Lucy gently picked up Shirou and gently patted his back. Then standing up as she went to catch up with the her old contact from the past.
A few minutes later
From what Lucy learned, Kirei and his daughter survived using a technique similar to what was used on Ventus to keep them alive. Only the timing was random and they had awakened about a couple years ago. Which explained to Lucy why Carin looked slightly older as she was younger than Ventus in her original lifetime.
However before the conversation continued. It looked like Natsu and Gray moved onto throwing large objects at each other. Both not really caring as Erza wasn't in the guild and they weren't too cautious as to avoid summoning Dark Lucy. It also helped that Makarov was too drunk to care and had plenty of alcohol left in the barrel next to him to worry. So long as Cana didn't steal it away from him.
"Take this Ice Prick!" Natsu yelled as he threw a table at him.
Gray narrowly dodged it as he started freezing up a pillar just to rip it out, "How about you take this Pyromaniac!" he yelled as he tossed it.
Natsu could have broken the pillar using one of his attacks. He instead chose to avoid it. Which lead to the worst situation they chose to ignore. Even more so, it appeared that Caster Gilgamesh's eyes flickered with concern. His clairvoyance flaring and warning him of a horrible danger in the near future.
"Everyone return to the throne!" Gilgamesh shouted as he and all the Heroic Spirits returned to Lucy.
Before Lucy could question why her servants were so fearful. Only to find herself being crushed by the giant pillar. Kirei only briefly avoided the object flying at him. Seeing his mistake in not taking Lucy with him. The man ripped off his coat and proceeded to use all his strength to remove the piece of the building. Only to find his own creation under it instead.
And he didn't mean Carin, because Ventus surprisingly saved her by carrying her like a bride... only making things worse for himself.
No, Kirei spotted white hair, golden eyes and a familiar smile.
"I see Dark Stella is still here." Kirei said keeping his stoic face on.
Dark Lucy proceeded to crawl out from where Kirei was lifting the pillar from. Her smile slowly transformed into a frown as her second stage had activated.
"Which one of you fools threw that?" Lucy asked.
Everyone minus Natsu and Gray started to run. Just as they felt the whole guild go cold. To the point they could see some ice building up on the walls.
With Erza
Currently, the Titania was leading Juvia back to the guild. Currently talking to the girl who was looking quite sad as she stared at her purse.
"Look Juvia, I understand you feel a bit desperate. Gray is an idiot, but you shouldn't buy potions from shady men." Erza said having had to catch the salesmen that scammed Juvia earlier with a bad potion.
"Erza, I just love Gray so much I can't help it if I can't grab his attention." Juvia said while also grateful for getting her money back.
"Juvia, Gray is practically my little brother and so is Natsu. I know them like the back of my hand and I'm willing to help you two communicate better." Erza suggested.
Juvia sighed, "Even if Orion is trying to convince my beloved to peak on girls at the hot springs?" she asked.
Erza nodded, "Yes even if Orion is... I will speak to the Grand Archer later." she said now sounding furious.
As they arrived at the guild, they witnessed the influx of guild members running from the guild. Looking very terrified which wasn't entirely new for Erza. Mainly because they feared her, but never had the nerves to run away from her. Mainly because Erza herself would chase after them and punish them for escaping her wrath and discipline.
Erza would quickly find the reason behind the fear as she approached the guild. Finding the wall covered in ice. Before considering that Gray was freezing up the guild and thinking of a proper punishment for him. Erza spotted Lucy freezing Natsu and Gray up to their necks and likely preparing for some sort of mental torture against them.
"Oh good, Lucy is keeping the guild in check." Erza said nodding in approval.
"Lucy-san is torturing my beloved!" Juvia yelled fearfully.
"SAVE US!" Natsu and Gray yelled.
Juvia adjusted her hat and marched in, "I will save you beloved!" she said before Dark Lucy turned her head and faced Juvia. The water mage immediately spinned 180 degrees back, "After I run my errands!" she says as Dark Lucy scared her.
An hour later
Once it was clear to return to the guild without fear of Lucy destroying anyone. A few of the wizards returned to find the guild flooded from having the ice melted, Natsu and Gray on the floor looking unharmed but mentally scarred (their eyes rolled to the back of their heads) and Dark Lucy Stage 2 kneeling in seiza position and touching her forehead against the floor in front of Kirei.
"I apologize my master. I have yet to reach your level of disciplining these idiots." Dark Lucy said apologetically
Kirei waved her off, "That is ok my student. However you may need to clean up. Nobody can work or relax from a hard day's work in a mess such as this. Can you do that for me?" he asked.
'Does he expect her to act like a dog!?' everyone who was still conscious thought incredulously.
Suddenly Dark Lucy went down to Stage 1 and smiled, "Okie dokie!" she said before running around and cleaning up the mess.
Including the amount of destruction Natsu and Gray caused. Among the various fights and partying everyone else was responsible for. At least those two were gently seated back, but not without Gray slumping down onto Natsu's pants. Making it look like he was fishing for something with his mouth. This comedically caused Juvia, who came back, to run away in tears.
"No Gray-sama! You can't like me as well!" Juvia yelled as she tearfully ran away.
As Dark Lucy and everyone else was distracted. Happy took this opportunity to grab a camera and take several pictures for blackmail purposes.
"Lucy have I ever told you that you're my favorite?" Happy asked before being given a raw fish.
"Nay sir." Dark Lucy answered in the opposite manner as Happy's "Aye sir".
Things were so wrong on so many levels. However Makarov was the first one to recover and approached Kirei. Seeing as it appeared that Lucy referred to him as her teacher and it appeared that he knew her dark side very well.
"It's a balance. In her past life, Lucy, formerly Stella, was kind hearted person who rarely took offensive action or become angry. However, holding the Throne of Heroes leaves her with room full of spirits with free will and various personalities. Especially the most evil and disgusting of them." Kirei explained.
"Ok, Lucy has a headache and so do I but that doesn't meant I turn insanely evil." Makarov replied.
"As I trained Stella to handle the scary world outside her home. The many Avengers and other evil spirits spread across her mind as did the many good spirits. Thus to create perfect harmony, Dark Stella, now Dark Lucy was born." Kirei finished just as Dark Lucy fell on her back and reverted to her old self.
"Ow! My head!" Lucy whined as she rubbed the back of her head.
"What about the memory issue?" Makarov asked.
Kirei shrugged, "Most teenage girls, regardless of discipline, are just airhead that quite forgetful." he answered.
"Ah, why is Gray... doing that?" Lucy asked as her actions actually didn't affect the awkward situation those two are in.
Makarov sighed, "Well Lucy, I think you have a lot of catching up to do with your friend here." he said.
"As well learning new methods. I couldn't really find myself to think of a good punishment outside of getting physical myself." Erza said as she was impressed with how quiet Natsu and Gray are.
Elsewhere
A young girl of likely 12 or 13 years of age walked through the doors of the train she was boarding. With her were a stack of books she struggled to carry. The girl eventually made it to her seat where she was next to a white cat similar to Happy.
"You're almost late child. Did you really need to pick up that many books?" the cat asked.
"The new releases are out in this town Charle! I just had to get them since they take so long to reach us!" the girl replied.
The cat now identified as Charle sighed, "Do you really need them Wendy? What is so special about A Maiden's Voice?" she asked.
Wendy smiled, "They're the stories about amazing humans that once existed. So the Maiden wants to remind the world of their legend." she replied happily.
"Wendy those are either myths or misconceptions. They could just be fictional characters based on other stories." Charle replied.
"You're so negative Charle. If you read one of the books then you would understand. It's not about believing, but understanding who these people were." Wendy explained.
"Fine, give me one and I can put away your nonsense." Charle said hoping to convince Wendy to drop her love of the series.
A while later
As the train travelled from the station in Magnolia. The girl and the cat remained silent as they were entranced by the stories of individuals they read. For Wendy, she read The Original Holy Maiden, the story of Joan of Arc. The female saint who lead her country to victory claiming that she heard the voice of God in her mind. Charle on the other hand read In The Mind of The Ancient Beauty, the story of Queen Cleopatra. The last pharaoh to have ruled Egypt and the story of the tragedies in her life.
"Alright, I admit this monarch is an interesting one. To have strength and charisma to captivate many people. For a woman to have so much ambition is fascinating." Charle said forgetting her claim on the stories being fictional.
"See Charle? I told you they're interesting. We can learn so much from these people." Wendy said happily.
"I better not find you dressing in a scantling outfit young lady. You're too young to be seducing men and building empires." Charle said making wendy blush.
"I'm won't!" Wendy exclaims.
Charle turned the page of her book and continued, "Though I doubt you have the grace and charisma at your age to make such a feat." she said making Wendy whine from embarrassment.
Back at the guild, a while later
After waking up, Natsu and Gray were forced to sit down at the bar area where Kirei presented two large bowls of his spiciest ramen. It appeared that there was some sort of special sealing magic keeping the noodles themselves from burning through the bowl. Meaning it was very dangerous and hazardous to their health.
"So food is our punishment?" Gray asked.
Lucy nodded, "That's right, you two hit me with a pillar so now you have to eat the ramen of doom." she said.
Natsu grinned, "Cool! I'll get this done in one bite!" he said energetically.
"Not so fast! I'll be done first!" Gray said sounding competitive.
Ten seconds later
The two croaked as their faces were mushed against the ramen. No doubt trapped in some sort of coma from not handling the spicy food. Giving Happy more time to keep taking photos for blackmail. However Juvia stopped it all as she pulled out Gray and lied him against her knees.
"Don't worry Gray-sama, your future wife is here and she will save you!" Juvia said as she put her lips against Gray's and started giving him mouth to mouth resuscitation.
Happy giggled, "That's right Juvia, give him the kiss of life!" he said as he kept taking photos.
Lucy shook her head as she and Shirou stared at Natsu's form, 'I'm guessing this is the timeline where Arthur is born.' she thought sadly.
'How did mom fall in love with this guy?' Shirou thought as Natsu looked far from respectable right now. He shrugged as he thought, 'Maybe he'll improve as time goes on. Mom likely has her reasons.' he thought.
The next day
Once again, despite the strangeness that was Kirei Kotomine's ramen shop. One that was so spicy he melted most of Magnolia's city block.
Putting that aside, Arthur asked Virgo on another date. Though Virgo was hoping to convince her date to punish her when this was over much to the chagrin of her master's son. Now they were currently entering 8 Island, a restaurant owned by Yajima who started his business after the Magic Council fell apart due to Jellal's destruction of it from the inside under the guise of Siegfrain.
Just as they took their seats and pulled out the menus. They were greeted by their waitress.
"Hi there! Welcome to 8 Island, how may I take your order?" the waitress asked just as Arthur looked away from the menu.
"Yes, I'll take the... mama?" Arthur asked.
"I'm sorry wha... Arthur?" asked the waitress now revealed to be Lucy in a very revealing uniform. The surprised Lucy turned to face Arthur's date now turning her surprise into shock, "Virgo!?" she asked.
Virgo did not show any emotion as she stared at her master, "Would you like to punish me for dating your son? I have no regrets either way." she asked.
Lucy sweat dropped, "We'll talk about this later. Though, I'm... really surprised. How did this happen?" she asked as she remembered the brief time Arthur blushed when he saw Virgo at the Tower of Heaven.
Arthur covered Virgo's mouth before she could answer, "It's a long story, but do you mind if I make my order first?" he asked nervously.
Lucy narrowed her eyes, "Nothing with too much sweets young man." she said.
"Yes ma'am." Arthur replied.
"You too Virgo." Lucy added.
"Yes Mother-in-law." Virgo replied.
"Don't call me that!" Lucy said with a shocked face.
More time later
Things went well until Natsu and Gray somehow screwed things up again. Then Erza may have crossed the borderline of pleasure and harassment with the customers. Luckily Yajima was mostly satisfied with the job done as his restaurant was still standing in fine condition. Though a few strengthening seals helped keep the place in great shape regardless.
"Well it was messy, but I can't really expect much else from Makky-chan's guild. Nonetheless, you were all amazing today." Yajima said sounding grateful.
"Hey old man, why are you running a restaurant? Weren't you a part of the Magic Council?" Natsu asked still unaware of the news.
Of course, Yajima had to explain it to them as Gray, Happy and Arthur didn't know either while Erza and Lucy kept up with the latest news. Once again reiterating the issue with Jellal's betrayal and the destruction of the council. Therefore leaving most of the governing world of Wizards in Fiore kept mostly unchecked. As they still had the capital to watch over them but still lacking in authority as their duties were stretched then as is. Hence the reason why the Magic Council was created in order to govern and manage the guilds and to combat the dark guilds.
"Which reminds, I think Makky-chan had an important discussion to give all of you and the rest of Fairy Tail in regards to the Balam Alliance." Yajima said.
"That sounds familiar." Lucy muttered as she put a hand under her chin.
"They're an alliance of dark guilds. Kind of a big group that kept them organized." Erza explained.
Lucy nodded, "Oh yeah, I think I remember now." she said still lacking some knowledge of the dark guilds and their organizations.
Natsu grinned, "Whatever it is. It must be really big if the old man wants to talk about it. So that means there's more bad guys that need a beat down!" he said sounding excited.
"Aye sir!" Happy said in agreement.
"Well if Flame Brain is excited, you know what that means." Gray said as everyone else nodded.
Back with Mateus
The emperor stared at a large map in a war room of sorts, "Seymour, do you have any news for me?" he asked.
A blue haired man in an exotic robe that revealed his tattooed chest had appeared, "Yes your majesty, we have found the location of Nirvana and are very sure we can reach it. So long as we can properly heal the one known as Jellal." he said.
Mateus nodded, "Good, prepare the spirits. No doubt Stella's reincarnation will get in the way along with some of those wizards." he said. "While you're at it. Tell those scientists to improve on those class cards. As much as I would prefer them to be ready as possible. Tools cannot function if they break so easily." he added.
Seymour bowed his head, "Yes your majesty, right away." he said as he left the war room. But not without having his own malicious thoughts, 'Be patient Seymour, the time will come when that human falls like he did the first time. Even with so much power, he could only handle so much. After that, I can claim Stella for myself and make her my bride as I intended all those years ago.' he thought with a devious smile as he walked down the halls.
TO BE CONTINUED...
OMAKE: Virgo's Gift
Lucy and the others were still at the guild. So that left Arthur alone with Virgo at the apartment. Though the amnesiac from the future was hoping to improve his relationship with his crush. It turned out that Virgo felt the same way and much more for a very odd reason.
Because Virgo started smiling as she lead Arthur to the closet. The blond boy was very afraid of what Virgo was about to present to him. So embarrassed himself for anything strange related to her desire to be punished or in case she got him a pet. Deep down Arthur thought Virgo might be one of those reckless people that get him dangerous things as gifts. So there could be the slight chance there's something that Virgo defines as a puppy but is actually equivalent to a rabid wolverine.
Instead, Arthur got something equally scary but weird.
"MMMMPH! MMMPH!"
Arthur groaned, in the closet was a dark haired woman with fair skin, and a red and blue outfit that did little to cover her her legs and shoulders. This was an ancient and powerful amazonian warrior. The daughter of Queen Hippolyta and the God Zeus, Princess Diana of Themyscira.
And she was not one bit happy as she was tied up with her own lasso and had a rag tied around her mouth. Likely to keep the landlady from being disturbed and finding Diana. What confused Arthur is how did Virgo find and overpower a powerful Ruler Class heroic spirit.
"MMMMMPH!" Diana continued to scream through her gag.
"Don't worry Arthur, I took away her Noble Phantasms. Her tiara and gauntlets along with her rope currently used to restrain her." Virgo said ignoring the glare from Diana.
"Why did you kidnap her instead of bringing her to my mother!?" Arthur asked.
"I wanted to give you more mates. So I wanted to teach Diana the joy of being punished." Virgo answered.
"MMMPH!?" Diana asked.
Arthur sighed as he looked down at Diana, "I apologize Princess, you don't deserve this treatment and need to be freed right away." he said. Diane smiled seeing how kind Arthur is, "Which is what I would do but I have keep you here and hope mom doesn't notice you until I come up with an explanation." he said rapidly as he slammed the closet door.
Diana let out a loud growl as she tried kicking the door.
Only for Arthur to open it again, "Sorry, here's some food. I swear I'll help you out soon." he said as he dropped a plastic bag with a sandwich beside her.
Diana continued to struggle in her lasso as she continued to curse at the two. Promising to deliver painful discipline before approaching Lucy. Mainly because she adored the girl in the past life and was a very close friend. Hopefully their meeting would sate her anger of being kidnapped.
Meanwhile Virgo wondered if this was remotely a good idea, 'I should hide the other two gifts.' she thought.
Meanwhile in the guild hall cellar
Himiko and Matahari were both bound and gagged because Virgo wanted to use them as a backup plan for Diana. Now both were screaming and begging for someone to release them from captivity. Hoping Virgo wasn't as much of a sadist as she was a masochist.
'Someone, please here us!' Matahari thought.
'I'm so hungry. Someone please find us.' Himiko thought.
Suddenly Makarov spoke up, "Everyone, there's a problem in the cellar!" he said getting their hopes up. "I need you all to make sure it stays locked and add magic to those silencing spells. I don't want someone breaking in and taking all the alcohol again. That and there might be mice making some noises." he said.
"MMMPH!?" both girls exclaimed.
"Aye sir!" everyone said as they heard the doors lock.
"MMMMMPH!" both girls kept screaming and trying to break free of their ropes.
Perhaps Virgo should have asked them if they wanted to share. Making it closer towards a more normal relationship than outright kidnapping. As it would appear that the ropes nullified their magic and strength. So they wouldn't be able to contact Lucy or transport themselves back to her in spirit form.
END OF OMAKE
NOTES: There's a new poll out guys. You should check it out and vote.