Chapter 16 - A Break From The Action
Fairy Tail Guild
Shirou was feeling very uncomfortable and the reason for this is the albino girl who said she was his big sister. Shirou really wanted to get rid of Ilya but she refused to let go of him as she stroked his head. Meanwhile Ventus was trying to hide from Kotomine's daughter, Carin. The seemingly nice girl who was very sadistic, actually had a hard time trying to find him. Her only reason that she knew that Ventus was nearby is the natural talent that almost every woman has.
The ability to smell Fear!
Carin Hortensia
Fear Detection: A+++ Rank
Leaving poor Ventus to hide somewhere so that Carin would not find him. Or anyone like Mirajane who would sell him out. The last thing he needed is that white haired mage to sell him out. It didn't help that Mirajane liked to play matchmaker and even made a copy of Lucy's apartment keys. Which Lucy was sure she would get back at Mirajane for. Not by hurting her, no. Lucy would probably mess with her and make life slightly more difficult for her.
Like making Astolfo a temporary waitress at the guild.
"How can I help you, pyon?" Astolfo asked, for some reason making himself a bunny themed waitress.
"Oh well, let me think." Wakaba said with a blush.
Then Mirajane appeared, "I can help you too." she said with a bright smile.
"Kind of busy here Mira." Wakaba said dismissing her, making Mirajane looked shocked.
"Okay then… I'll just stand here." Mirajane said feeling dejected.
"What about you?" Astolfo asked, looking at Macao who looked away from him.
"This one." Macao said as he pointed at the menu.
"Good choice!" Astolfo said before running to the kitchen.
Everywhere else, the whole guild was energetic as usual. Even though Erza was here and attempting to enjoy her favorite strawberry cake. She willingly ignored the guild for now so long as they did not bother her or her cake. However there was someone being punished at this time and it wasn't Natsu for once. As the sounds of screaming could be heard outside if you were to ignore the usual rowdiness within the guild.
"I said I was sorry! Please stop!" the person in question begged.
"I don't hear sincerity." sang a familiar voice.
With Black Lucy
Black Lucy was on the loose again and she was holding Gray upside down with a gravitational magic. Gray in question was being punished for being an idiot. So idiotic, that it made people question if Natsu was secretly hiding some intelligence just to make Gray look better. Right now, Lucy was grinning and holding a lava whip with the Phantom of the Opera standing beside her.
"I do not think he has learned his lesson mistress." the Phantom said.
"I did! It's Natsu's fault anyways! He shouldn't have forgotten!" Gray yelled.
"Gray, I was a kid and seeing as you remembered. Why didn't you tell anyone from the guild?" Natsu asked, almost sounding smart.
"They would not believe me!" Gray argued.
"Did you try?" Lucy asked as she tilted her head. Gray stayed silent, "More punishment! Natsu-kun, get the lobsters!" she commanded.
Natsu shrugged, "I don't know why, but these were super easy to find." he said as Happy munched on a fish.
"Hey, I'm the one that found them." Happy said, having scouted the nearby beach for Natsu to collect them.
"Whatever little buddy, just eat your fish." Natsu said as Happy nods.
Why was Gray being tortured you may ask? He almost caused the destruction of Magnolia town by almost giving Natsu to a psychotic woman named Daphne. Who wanted to use Natsu as a battery for a mechadragon. As if Gray believed that Natsu could overpower the monster while trapped and likely drained. So when Lucy arrived with help and summoned Bahamut along with several other heroic spirits. The whole group destroyed the mecha before it could reach Magnolia.
Now Gray was being punished for doing stupid things without telling anyone. Hopefully this would encourage Natsu as well so that he would be more cautious in the future.
The night ended with the sounds of Gray screaming for help. Along with the sounds of angry lobsters pinching him.
"SOMEONE SAVE ME FROM THIS MANIAC! I'LL EVEN ACCEPT HELP FROM JUVIA! WHERE EVEN IS JUVIA!?" Gray asked.
Sadly, while Juvia always loves to be within a 3 to 10 foot proximity of Gray. She had bills to pay and that involved needing to take jobs. Meaning that she went away on a job and would not be back for a while. That didn't mean Juvia could suddenly sense that Gray was in severe pain and desperately wanted to finish as to return home to him quickly.
The Next Day
Juvia did return quickly and proceeded to nurse Gray to health as he was covered in bandages. Now the ice mage was lying on her lap as she checked his injuries.
"I'm sorry Gray-sama, but perhaps you should let others know of your plans before doing something reckless." Juvia said.
"How was I supposed to know that lady was planning on torturing Natsu into becoming a battery for a giant mecha?" Gray asked.
Juvia sweat dropped, "Just rest my love." she said as she stroked his head.
Unfortunately, while those two were fine and dandy. It appeared that Charle was being too strict again and had an argument with Wendy. From the sounds of things, Wendy wanted to go on a mission or something and Charle apparently did not want to participate because she did not have faith in Wendy's independent skills. For Charle wanted Wendy to take more easy missions with a large group leading her, instead of letting Wendy grow and try to take the lead.
"Fine Charle, if it's like that. You don't have to come." Wendy said.
"When you realize that you are lost child, I will be waiting right here." Charle said having little faith in Wendy.
Wendy then put the request in front of Mira, "I want to go on this one please." she said.
Mira smiled at the girl, "Okay, but I think you should take someone with you just in case Wendy." she said.
Wendy looked around the guild before noticing Shirou hiding behind a table, "Shirou!" she called out. "Do you want to help me on my job?" she asked.
"Okay!" Shirou said coming out of hiding before Ilya appeared and tackled him.
"You can't go yet Shirou! You're too little!" Ilya whined.
"Ilya-chan, let Shirou go. Maybe you can go on a mission with him next time." Lucy said as Ilya pouted.
"I'm still packing you a big lunch." Ilya said as she let go of her brother.
Lucy giggled at the antics of her children, "What about a servant Wendy? Maybe one of them can give you advice on the way." she said as she saw Wendy frown. "Hey don't give me that look. Do you think I made a name for myself without making mistakes?" she asked.
Wendy thought about it, "Okay, learning on the go is important." she said realizing that a servant isn't a crutch.
But that didn't mean she would borrow someone who is overpowered.
"How about her?" Wendy asked as she pointed at someone.
"That's a boy Wendy." Lucy corrected.
"EH!?" Wendy asked.
"Don't ask me why. Astolfo is weird and I tried asking Charlemagne but he hardly has any answers." Lucy said before waving over to the pink haired waitress.
"You called-pyon?" Astolfo asked while making a peace sign.
Lucy ignored his antics, "Wendy here wants to know if you can help her on her very first job." she said.
Astolfo smiled brightly, "Sure thing! I needed a break anyways, some of those guys have been leering at me. Even the girls too." he whispered out the last part.
Lucy sighed, "He's a guy everyone!" she said outloud making a lot of men belch.
"And what's wrong with that?" asked someone way in the back.
Lucy sweat dropped, "I guess everyone has their preferences. Anyways, let's get you three ready." She said.
A while later, outside the guild
A small group appeared to say their farewell to the trio, "Good luck you guys and stay out of trouble!" Lucy said.
"Yeah, beat up every dark mage and bandit in your way too!" Natsu adds.
"Bye everyone!" Wendy said as the three of them walked away from the guild with the Hippogriff.
"I still don't like this, why can't that girl listen to me?" Charle asked sounding angry.
"Because you have no faith in her Charle." Happy spoke up.
"What do you know Tomcat?" Charle asked.
"It's about experience Charle. Natsu has been hit a lot of times and so have I." Happy answered.
Charle sighed, "What does you being stupid have to do with anything?" she asked.
Happy grinned, "It's a learning lesson called life Charle. You can't shelter Wendy or else bad things happen." he said.
"I think Wendy would be perfectly fine so long as she listens to me." Charle argued.
"Aren't you younger than her?" Happy asked.
"Yes, why do you ask?" Charle asked, despite thinking she had more mental maturity than Wendy.
"I think what Happy is saying you lack the most experience." Lucy spoke up. "Happy may be annoying sometimes but he has a point. You might know some things but you need knowledge, not just wisdom." she said.
"And the difference is?" Charle asked.
"Wisdom is just perspective and putting things together like a puzzle. You need knowledge to understand things completely." Lucy answered.
"Besides, you didn't even know Cait Shelter was full of Thought Projections. What the heck kind of smart person lets something that small get past them?" Natsu asked.
"Well I…" Charle had no answer.
Lucy sighed, "You need to let Wendy grow. Besides, you can't say much if you yourself lack knowledge and can't fix your own flaws." she said making Charle think.
The next day
Unlike what Charle predicted, Wendy came back fine. With the worst part only being some issues in the desert between Magnolia and the town Wendy was heading towards.
Fiore has a strange ecosystem.
With that out of the way, Charle had to let go of some of her pride and realize Wendy was not a child and neither was Charle. Both had to grow up and see the world for what it is instead of just assuming whatever and thinking their predictions will always remain accurate. However today was not for debate or strategic planning. For this was the time of year for the yearly race in Fairly Tail which Makarov uses to play a punishment game. Where the loser who places last place is given a secret punishment.
It was another one of Fairy Tail's important events where many citizens arrived to witness the races begin. Along with the arrival of Jason from Sorcerer Weekly who is covering the race live via a lacrima at the guild hall.
"I hope you are all excited as I am for the race because everyone is ready to start! So cool!" Jason exclaims. "We have everyone in the entire guild minus Master Makarov himself and Mirajane Strauss participating in the race today!" he adds.
"Wow, I guess the excitement never ends." Lucy said as she witnessed the race for the first time.
"You should feel excited too Lu-chan. I see you got a tracksuit too." Levy said noticing Lucy's change of attire.
"Yeah well, I can't run in a large skirt or my Dress of Heaven. Not in this crowd anyways." Lucy said while scratching the back of her head sheepishly.
"Really? I'm actually interested in seeing Heroic spirits run loose." Levy said, not yet regretting what will happen.
"I don't think that's a remotely good idea." Lucy said just as everyone got ready.
Then Makarov appeared, "Remember everyone, you all have 24 hours to finish this race. Follow the course's route and back. You may use any magic, except for flight." he said eyeing Happy, Charle and Lucy. "No one is allowed to drop out of the race. Whoever finishes last, will receive the ultimate punishment and this includes anyone tying for last!" he adds.
This only added a bit more pressure for everyone to finish. As it was not completely about winning, rather about not being punished as it was mandatory. Since the elderly guild master knew when and how to be scary.
"Now, begin!" Makarov said as everyone started running.
"Careful Lu-chan, everyone here treats each other like family but that doesn't mean they won't be aggressive." Levy said.
Lucy laughed it off, "I'll be fine Levy-chan, I've been through worse than this." she said.
A few minutes later
Lucy looked worse for ware and was not one bit happy. As she was repeatedly turned into a pinball several times during this race. With Levy having to pick her up a few times.
"Wow Lu-chan, you sure know how to take a hit." Levy said.
Lucy's eyes started to twitch, "I hate this race already." she said.
"Sorry, but remember what the master said. You can't drop out and if you lose, you get punished. Trust me, the master always changes the punishment every year and it's never good." Levy said. Lucy's eyes twitched even more before her eyes flickered into the color yellow, "Oh please no!" she pleads.
"You like hitting people, I love hurting people!" Lucy yelled as her dark self appeared.
"No evil Lucy, now is not a good time!" Levy pleads.
"I'm not evil Levy-chan, just authoritative. Right Carmilla?" Lucy asked as the vampiric version of Elizabeth Bathory appeared.
"Uh, what is she doing?" Levy asked when a random guild member ran into Carmilla's iron maiden.
"Punishing those who hurt milady." Carmilla answered as she squeezed the guild member.
"Isn't that a bit much!?" Levy asked.
"It's never too much!" Black Lucy yelled as she cackled like a maniac.
With Macao's Group
Macao was laughing as Wakaba and Cana fell behind him, "Sucks to be you two. While you've been smoking and drinking, I've been keeping myself in good health." he said only for Anastasia to appear a hundred feet away from them.
"Hey kid! Move out of the way!" Wakaba yelled.
Anatasia raised her arm, "Big sister is angry and I will make her happy again." she said as she turned the entire road into solid ice.
"Woah! Woah! Woah!" Macao yelled before falling down and sliding.
Causing Cana and Wakaba to fall on top of him. With the two both having great difficulty trying to stand back up and continue the race. Cana having the worst of it as she felt cold and could not stand.
"You should have worn a sweater with shoes that have flat soles. Instead of dressing like a floosie." Anastasia said very coldly.
"Don't judge my fashion sense!" Cana said ignoring everyone who mocks her bare skin.
With Freed's Group
Freed was grinning as he was about to invoke a trap for Evergreen and the racers behind her. Only to find Heracles wearing a blindfold and wielding a club as a tiny pinata was being held over him by Achilles and the rest of the Argonauts.
"You got this Heracles! Just aim lower and the left! More left! More more more!" Jason said.
"RARG!" Heracles yells as he turns and sends Freed flying back to the start.
"THIS IS UNFAIR!" Freed screamed as flew away.
"What the?" Evergreen asked before the pinata exploded.
Sadly, she and everyone else were far too close to the impact of the hit. Causing Evergreen to be sent flying by the earthquake that Heracles created.
"Good job Heracles! You won the candy!" Medea Lily said as Heracles gave a thumbs up.
With Elfman
"You can't keep up with me! Because I'm a real man!" Elfman shouted.
"I bet I can run faster than you Elfman!" Nab argued.
"Wrong, you two should focus more on cardio!" Warren said as he sped past them.
When suddenly they heard the sounds of police sirens behind them. Looking back, the three men could see Diarmuid driving a police car while in uniform while Tamamo no Mae was also in costume and on speaker.
"This is the police! You are all under arrest!" Tomamo announced.
"What for!?" Elfman asked.
"You have clearly taken more than the legal dosage of protein shakes!" Tamamo answered.
"Hey! I don't even drink protein!" Warren argued.
"You are under arrest for not drinking enough protein!" Tomamo adds.
"That is so unfair!" Warren yelled as the three continued to run.
Tomamo gently placed a hand on Diarmuid's arm, "Diar-kun, could you speed up so we can catch the suspects?" she asked with a seductive look on her face.
Diarmuid sighed as he tried to ignore her, "I have to obey traffic laws." he replied.
The fox pouted, "You are no fun." She said as she crossed her arms.
With Natsu
Natsu was speeding up as he enhanced himself with fire in his arms. He was laughing as he had faith that he could reach Jet and beat him. Only to stop as he saw a carnival barker standing next to an elderly version of Li Schuwen who was drinking tea.
"Step right up! Beat the champion and win a stack of delicious meat!" the barker yells.
Natsu's stomach rumbled when he heard the news, "I'll take that challenge!" he yells as he runs up to the barker.
The Barker stepped back as Li stood up, "Are you ready child?" he asked.
Natsu grinned, "I'm fired up!" he said as he swung at Li.
Only for the old man to side step. As his fist tapped Natsu in the abdomen. Causing a loud cracking sound to be heard. Natsu immediately fell onto the ground and rolled around in pain.
Li shrugged, "Oh well, maybe someone else will fight me." He said just as Gray arrived.
"I will also take that challenge!" Gray said, unaware of how badly Li's martial arts can hurt him.
With Makarov
Mirajane looked worried, "Master, isn't this a bit too much?" she asked knowing how overpowered some servants are.
Makarov shook his head, "There will come many trials Mira. Thus it is up to our fellow guild mates to overcome them. Plus it adds to the excitement." he said making the barmaid sweat drop.
Jason looked excited though, "Sorry to say this, but there is no disqualifications. You guys have to keep going! And those other guys, so cool!" he adds.
Mirajane sighed, "I think Lucy's appearance made things even more crazy." she said.
Later that night
Arthur, who chose to participate in the race, finally made it to the half way point. Where he found the next part of the race. Which is taking a wyvern scale and bringing it back to the finish. As he took one, he noticed Happy struggling. While the cat was annoying, he still had a goo heart and it was only fair to help since Happy's only magical skill was the ability to fly.
Which Makarov just mentioned is against the rules.
"Here little guy." Arthur said as he lifted up Happy.
"Thanks Arthur." Happy said as he grabbed a scale and jumped back down. "So many people already showed up. There's no doubt Natsu is on the way." he said as he could see fire in the distance.
"Yeah, well good luck. I don't want to imagine what punishment will be." Arthur said before hearing a train coming.
"What is that?" Happy asked.
"Arthur help!" Arthur ran towards the train to find Virgo tied to some train tracks.
"Virgo!" Arthur called out as he tried to untie the ropes.
"Arthur, do not worry about the train. Worry about the ropes." Virgo said.
"I know!" Arthur said.
"Good, because they are far too loose." Virgo said making Arthur stop.
"Eh?" Arthur asked.
Virgo sat up straight, "The ropes are ready to fall apart. I cannot be punished if my ropes are loose." she said.
Arthur sighed as he tightened her binds, "Fine, but I don't even want to know how this happened to you." he said.
Virgo kissed Arthur on the cheek, "Very well, I will not say anything." she said.
"Arthur's got a girlfriend!" Happy said teasing him.
"Yeah, and where's your girlfriend?" Arthur asked, making Happy blush.
"Charle my love! I am coming for you!" Happy yells before running off.
Arthur snickered, "Come on, I guess I have to carry you away." he said as he lifted Virgo up like a bride.
Virgo faced the other direction with a look of determination, "To victory!" she said as Arthur carried her away to victory.
Then Bickslow started catching up behind them, "Hehe, there's no way I'm losing. I'm gonna be the winner of… AHHHH!" he screamed as the train finally appeared and sent him flying.
The next day
Jason, along with everyone else who was somehow awake, continued his live announcements, "And it's been almost an entire day since the race started with everyone pushing past their limit. But who will win!? And where is Jet!? He was leading the race and there's still no sign of him!" he exclaimed.
"That is a good point, Jet was so confident." Mirajane said.
"Jet knows how important the race is unless he's a masochist for punishment." Makarov said as he had not once moved from his spot except for beer and a bathroom break.
For a man over 80 years of age. Makarov does not really display the physical health of an average geriatric. Who knows what his exercise plan is.
"And it looks like the racers are coming close!" Jason announced as he could see some people running towards the finish line.
With Natsu and the others
Natsu was fighting with Gray, Gajeel, Erza and even Jet who tripped and lost his balance. All of them fighting for first place. For some reason, Erza was in a bunny suit. Not the sexy bunny suit on a playboy magazine or seen at restaurants. Rather, it was a real bunny costume and somehow Erza believed it helped her run faster.
"This year's winner is going to be me!" all of them yelled before all of them crashed.
Falling right in front of the finish line. Just as Happy arrived and jumped over them. Despite looking exhausted, he was very determined to finish the race.
"And this year's new winner is…"
*SNAP*
"Happy!" Jason announced as Happy fell down over the line. "And here comes our runner ups!" he says just as Wendy and Charle arrive with Shirou running slowly behind them.
"Aw man." Shirou whined as Wendy and the cats were being congratulated.
"Better luck next time Shirou, but look how far you made it today." Mirajane said just as the other racers arrived.
Before long, everyone who almost made it to first place had been run over by the stampede of Fairy Tail wizards. Somehow Erza managed to get up and quickly make her way to the finish line. Ignoring the shame and pain of losing her chance at first place. While urgently avoiding Master Makarov's planned punishment.
"Wow Erza made it, how did she get there?" Jason asked.
Meanwhile Lucy was finally coming to her senses, "Ow, why does my magic hurt? My circuits feel like they're on fire." she whined.
Levy laughed nervously, "Your dark side came out Lu-chan. I think she made a deal with the master since he didn't say anything about them running loose." she said making Lucy feel scared.
"What!? Why!?" Lucy asked as she noticed many servants running around on their own.
"I think it's best not to ask." Levy answered.
Unaware that Makarov spoke to Lucy's dark side while she was torturing Gray with lobsters. However, lobsters were the least of everyone's worries along with rampaging heroic spirits. As the timer for the race had just started ringing, signalling that it has ended. The race ending with several Fairy Tail wizards losing the race and tying for dead last.
"It's over people! For the first time! We have a four way tie for last place!" Jason announced.
Natsu, Gray, Jet and Gajeel looked shocked and scared upon hearing that announcement. Although Jet felt somewhat better as he saw Happy running around with excitement.
"I guess it's not all that bad. Happy woke me up half way through the race." Jet says as took a nap earlier because of his massive lead in the race.
"I am glad you feel that way Jet. Now that I have to reveal the punishment for all four of you." Makarov said making everyone grimace and anticipate what the master will say.
"Here it comes!" Natsu said as he closed his eyes, almost as if he expected himself to be beaten to death.
"All four of you will dress up like beautiful women, partake in interviews and participate in a photoshoot for Jason. All for the next issue of Sorcerer Magazine." Makarov announced, making the four pale in fear.
Now Natsu would prefer to be beaten to death. It got worse as Kotomine appeared, wearing one of his aprons.
"You all get one free bowl of ramen for effort as well." Kotomine said as he put down the bowls.
"Screw that! I'm out of here!" Natsu yelled as he ran.
Only to crash into Karna who was flanked by several servants, "There is no escape." Karna said as lifted up Natsu by the scarf.
"Hey put me down! I don't want to be in a girly photoshoot!" Natsu shouted. "Help me guys!" he pleads only to see the other three knocked unconscious.
"You put too much hot sauce again Kotomine." Lucy said.
Gajeel, Gray and Jet were unable to move due to trying the ramen. Unaware of how spicy it was. Causing them to lose consciousness and make it easier for all the losers to be taken to their photoshoots. With Natsu being forcefully dragged away.
"Well at least everyone had a good time. That's all that should matter." Lucy said with a smile.
Then Carin grabbed onto Ventus', "And you win the secret raffle Ventus." she said.
"WHAT!?" Ventus asked.
"You have to take me out on a date." Carin said before dragging him away.
"SOMEONE HELP ME!" Ventus pleaded.
"Should we do something?" Levy asked.
Lucy sighed, "Young love is complex. Don't worry about it Levy-chan." she said waving it off.
A week later
With the men having faced their embarrassment and Ventus surviving a forced date with Carin. Fairy Tail returned to it's normal level of insanity to fit the usual setting of Fairy Tail. Despite having gone through some small missions to cover some apartment rent. Lucy felt happy with her current state of living and Natsu was still his happy self. Ignoring all the recent bad things that has happened to him lately.
Right now, the Dragon Slayer was doing something called the "Plue Dance" where he was shaking his butt with Plue and Happy.
"Those guys never seem to be down." Lucy comments.
"They never have a reason to." Mira comments.
Lucy could not help but wonder what motivates such a positive attitude. As she sat back and relaxed. She overheard some random voices in the near distance. Normally she would not be able to discern chatter until she heard some unique phrases and terms that combined into something seemingly odd.
"You know I heard Natsu might be crushing hard."
"Why would that matter?"
"It means he's looking for a girl to confess to I bet."
"I still fail to see why this concerns me."
"Come on, isn't this the least bit funny to you?"
"No, not really."
"Just saying, there might be a good betting pool coming up."
"On who the brat likes? What are you? Mirajane?"
Lucy rolled her eyes and ignored it. She briefly looked at Shirou and sighed at the memories she received when she met the boy. Causing her to keep quiet when she knew about the boy's secret origins. For a while, she legally registered his name as Shirou Emiya until a few months before she arrived at Fairy Tail. By then, Lucy already made a name for herself by destroying a good number of small dark guilds.
To be fair, despite her strong magic and wisdom she gained over the years. Lucy would describe herself as a better strategist than a fighter. Then again, Lucy admits she would not handle fighting someone on Erza's level without help.
Now, it leaves her feeling a bit strange that she was able to recognize Natsu after getting to know him. Before being shocked with learning who Shirou's father is as well as Arthur's. Both being from separate timelines, sent here by an anomaly Lucy had yet to understand.
'Then again, it's not like Shirou would disappear would he?' Lucy thought as she looked at the child who was eating. 'It doesn't help that my other self feels attached to him. I swear, this is probably Kiyohime or Kriemhilde's fault.' she thought as she could hear more rumors about Natsu's alleged crush.
"By the way Lucy, how's the book series?" Mirajane asked.
"It's good actually. I think I might be able to release ones for Leonidas and Karna next. Then maybe I can finish up Kiyohime's story." Lucy answered.
Luckily Levy was out on a mission. It was a good thing because now Levy would be very surprised by the release of a new story.
On the roof, with Archimedes
On the roof of the guild stood the famous Greek mathematician and Astronomer, Archimedes. The Caster class heroic spirit took the liberty of finding silence and seclusion at the top of the guild so that he would be able to study the stars. While there was no chance of the universe changing within centuries of change. Archimedes did like to find a new subject for his studies. With this setting, he would not worry about anyone bothering him.
At least until he heard someone else climb up to the rooftop. Archimedes sighed, deeply hoping it was someone else hoping for seclusion and science as well or at least silently enjoy the stars as to not bother him.
"A good space and a vacant… a not so vacant space I see. Lady luck has chosen to forsake me and give such a space to another." said a dramatic voice.
"You are free to sit here as well William, just do not disturb me." Archimedes said as he recognized William Shakespeare's voice.
"Thank you Scholar of Syracuse." Shakespeare said as he took a spot on the roof. "Now then, where was I?" he asked himself as he silently read over his works.
Archimedes managed to ignore Shakespeare who muttered very quietly and the sounds of a pen writing were not too loud. As Archimedes was mesmerized by his own studies. There was also the fact he did not bother communicating with someone unless it was absolutely necessary. If possible, he would prefer a hand written note over speaking to a real person.
At least until Shakespeare brought up a good question, "Archimedes, I have a question. With Stella reincarnating and becoming an author. What would you say to having your own story written?" he asked.
"I care not for a place in history. Unless it is some of my works or my ideas being shared for other like minded scholars." Archimedes answered.
Shakespeare frowned, "I see someone never wishes to achieve the lead role in any story. In fact, you would probably audition for the understudy of the understudy of a tree." he said.
"I have no desire for fame William. I only wish to achieve my own goals. I do not want anyone impeding them or ruining my work. As I told the Romans when they marched into my home." Archimedes said, as his last wish was for the soldiers not to damage his notes and experiments.
"I see then, not everyone wants to be special. No rush for the lead role, not even to be a side character either. Yet where is the fun in that!?" Shakespeare asked.
"The "fun" as you put it. Is achieving one's own desires. To find satisfaction in your own way without worrying about others micromanaging or critiquing every detail about you which they do not like." Archimedes explained.
"Then I suppose you do not care for tragic endings then." Shakespeare said.
"Fate is the route we build. One thing leads to another unless a new path is made. Tragedy and success can depend on one's perspective." Archimedes continues to explain.
Shakespeare yawned, "A good point, but I guess some people just want to live a boring life." he said as he looked in the distance. "Hey does that telescope work for landscapes too? I think I see smoke." Shakespeare said.
"What are you on about now?" Archimedes said as he adjusted his telescope.
Archimedes narrowed his eyes as he saw a strange animal. Some sort of amalgamation of a lion, snake and something else. He heard of crossbreeding but Archimedes never had an interest on a subject. As he saw no reason to force nature into creating weird creatures. If it happened on it's own, Archimedes would not care as it was logical for nature to change with the passing of time.
"This is something worth some concern." Archimedes said.
"What do we have here?" the two men turned to see Leonardo da Vinci climbing up. "Here I am looking for a place to relax. Yet all I see is a meeting of the greatest minds in history." she said so happily.
"This is not a party nor is it a time for festivities. Something unnatural is in the mountains and it may be causing trouble." Archimedes said as Leonardo looked through the telescope.
"My my, I need to get you a new telescope Archimedes. Still, it's very clear despite the darkness that such a creature should not exist." Leonardo said feeling concern.
"Let me see, who is the antagonist of this story?" Shakespeare asked as he took a peak. He grimaced as he moved back, "A strange chimera to say the least. Perhaps ask Lucy for a band of heroes to journey up there." he suggested.
Archimedes already prepared a letter, "I think this note should be enough." he said only for Leonardo to take it.
"A quick illustration would help with our situation." Leonardo said as she proceeded to make a sketch of the chimera.
With Lucy a short while later
With the guild calming down as night approached. Natsu approached Lucy looking like he had something important to say. Meanwhile Mirajane grinned in the background as she predicted certain things would happen. Only to be slightly disappointed.
"Hey Luce, do you think you can meet me by the tree at the park? There's something really important I wanted to ask you." Natsu asked.
"Sure Natsu, you can ask me anything. Except for my personal stuff." Lucy said giving him a blank look.
"Noted." Natsu said remembering when he and Gray almost destroyed the final draft for one of her books.
"Good." Lucy said.
"Just promise not to bring any lobsters." Natsu said before hearing Shirou pull out a glass tank. With a snapping turtle inside, "No turtles either!" he yells.
Lucy signaled Shirou to put it down, "It better not be trouble Natsu. Otherwise I'll see you then." she said as Natsu grinned.
"Thanks Luce!" Natsu said before leaving.
Mirajane giggled in the background, "He just asked you out on a date." she whispered.
"Mira, don't pretend I don't know that you copied the key to my apartment." Lucy said making Mira shut up.
The last thing Mirajane Strauss wanted was for Astolfo to take up more of her tips. To the point that not even Wakaba flirted with her anymore. Although that's a good thing on it's own as Wakaba was creepy for his age and he was already married and had a child to care for.
Both girls stopped thinking as they saw a paper plane entering the guild and landing at the bar. With what looked like William Shakespeare's signature on it.
"I wonder what William wants." Lucy said as she saw the report from Archimedes along with Leondardo's illustration of a chimera.
"Is something wrong Lucy?" Mirajane asked, seeing a worried look on Lucy's face.
"Just a small issue Mira. I'm going to go right now." Lucy said as she took the note with her.
The next morning
Lucy looked over the note once again and through one of Leonardo's telescope. She shook her head as she used the strong tool to see the chimera among other creatures making a mess near Mt. Hokobe. There was no doubt that those things had to be stopped. Yet Lucy could not help but wonder where those things came from.
"Maybe I should get some help for this. A few extra hands wouldn't be so bad." Lucy said to herself as she tried to think of a way to combat the creature. Just then, Lucy saw Juvia run by, "Hey Juvia, do you mind helping me with something?" she asked.
"Lucy-san, I really am busy. I have plans with Gray-sama and…"
"Hey, what's up?" Gray asked, suddenly appearing.
"Put on some clothes Gray! I am not your wife and your soon-to-be wife is not ready to see you naked!" Lucy yelled.
Gray looked confused, "What are you… why!?" he asked, now noticing that he was in his underwear.
Juvia blushed, "Beloved, we're too early to do this!" she said.
"We're not doing anything!" Gray yelled as he looked for his clothes.
"Ignoring Gray being a pervert. Do you think you guys can help me with something? There's an issue going on in Mt. Hokobe that needs to be dealt with." Lucy explained.
"What could be so bad?" Gray asked.
A few minutes later
After traveling with some of the riders to the mountain. Gray and Juvia saw the Chimera coming out from a cave. It's freakish unnatural appearance made Juvia feel nervous and Gray a bit sick.
"What the hell is that?" Gray asked.
"Some sort of chimera. A fusion of multiple monsters." Lucy answered.
The beast then roared and pounced on the, "Ice Make: Spear!" Gray yelled as he threw a spear at lion head.
The chimera roared as it crashed just as Juvia trapped it, "Water Lock!" she called out as the chimera struggled in it's prison. "Gray-sama, I cannot hold for long!" she said.
"I'll just freeze it and we can smash it." Gray said as he used his magic to freeze the orb of water.
Once the chimera was frozen solid. Gray created a giant ice hammer and repeatedly bashed it against the dome until it completely shattered. Leaving only fragments of the monstrous creature. With no way to harm any nearby people or animals.
"That was easy. Was that it?" Gray asked before hearing several roars.
"Gray-sama, you jinxed it!" Juvia cried out.
Gray sighed, "How many are there?" he asked.
Lucy shrugged, "Quite a few I think. I needed some extra hands to contain them." she answered.
"Okay, just set me up with Orion or something." Gray said knowing the fight won't be easy.
A few more minutes later
Gray cursed his luck, "Damn, I need some winter clothes. Something that stays on." he said as he was shirtless again.
"Gray-sama, here's your shirt." Juvia said as she shivered.
"Crap, unlike me, you haven't been exposed to so much snow and your new outfit isn't helping." Gray said.
"I'm sorry Gray-sama!" Juvia said as she made this outfit to impress her love.
Gray sighed, "Hold on, maybe I can tear up some pieces or something." he said.
Orion started laughing, "That won't do at all. Literally, it won't." He said. "Look my friend, I will show you how real men stay warm. Only if Juvia-san is okay with it." he said as he saw Juvia shiver.
"What do you want me to do?" Gray asked.
"We are going to skin a mighty beast into a fine coat!" Orion said just as he heard a roar. Orion laughed again as he saw a chimera appear, "Good, and if it fails. We at least have dinner." he said as he aimed his crossbow at the chimera.
"We're skinning that thing!?" Gray asked with a shocked face.
"This is how we hunt! Right Artemis?" Orion asked the teddy bear that was on his back.
"Right dear, remember to go for each head." Artemis said.
Juvia then turned to her own servant, "Atalanta-chan, can you help?" she asked, not wanting to wear a chimera's skin as a coat.
Atalanta sighed, "Sorry, this is just how things are. Survival of the fittest means using every aspect of the hunt." she said making Juvia cry anime tears.
The chimera roared again as it jumped down, "Our prey is no coward! Prepare yourself ice man!" Orion cried out.
"I don't want to do this anymore!" Gray yelled.
At the same time, with Lucy
Lucy had split up with Juvia and Gray to form her own party with Anastasia, Sitonai, Achilles and surprisingly Loke/Leo.
"So what? Just a scary monster like the vulcans?" Leo asked.
"Worse." Lucy answered.
Sitonai looked around as she sat on top of her polar bear, "I don't see anything. Did they really move this way?" she asked.
"Who knows, this mountain is freaking cold. I wish Karna or Tomamo were hear to start a fire." Achilles said as he shivered.
"Stop complaining Achilles, you've been through worse." Lucy said.
"Lucy if you want, we can huddle up together for warmth." Leo suggested flirtatiously.
Lucy did not want any part of that, "Actually I have a date tonight." she said.
"Are you serious!?" Leo asked with a sad face. "Can you at least set me up with that dancer girl? Mata was it?" he asked.
Lucy's eye began to twitch, "I should have summoned Aries instead." she said thinking the girl would have given her wool for warmth.
"Hey don't be like that. I'm just kidding!" Leo said trying to convince her.
"Uh huh, keep your eye out for wild monsters and not pretty girls." Lucy ordered.
Leo sighed, "Yes ma'am." he replied before hearing some howling. "Does hearing wild monsters count?" he asked as White Chimeras jumped down to their level.
"Hey Leo, how much you wanna bet I can take out more than you?" Achilles asked arrogantly.
"You're on!" Leo said forgetting his fear.
"Focus!" Lucy ordered, making the boys straighten up.
With the message made as clear as day. The celestial spirit and servants got to work with destroying the chimeras. With Anastasia using the snowy elements of the mountain as her weapon and Sitonai firing arrows from the top of her polar bear. Followed by Achilles quickly rushing in and decapitating a few heads with Leo lagging behind him.
"Hey, stop stealing my targets!" Leo complained.
"Stop being so slow." Achilles argued back.
Lucy sighed at the stupidity, 'Maybe I should have asked for the Knights of the Round Table or even the Romans." she said as the two boys fought like kids.
"Regulus Impact!" Leo yells as he smashes his fist into a chimera who then crashed into another chimera. "Beat that." he said.
"Already have." Achilles said as he somehow skewered two chimeras before sweeping the legs of a third one.
"They are so immature." Sitonai complained.
"Ignore the fools." Anastasia suggested.
"Okay." Sitonai said before rolling up her polar to be used as a weapon. Before accidentally letting him roll towards Achilles and Leo, "Oops!" she said the polar bear crashed into the two.
"Hey! Where did this polar bear…" Leo was interrupted by a claw to the face.
"Careful, I don't think he's friendly!" Achilles said before he was also clawed.
Lucy sighed again, "This is going to be a long day." she said before hearing a chimera snarl at her from behind. "Random Ball!" she casts as her spell blasts the chimera away.
As the fight from this side continued. Lucy wondered if Juvia and Gray were doing any better.
Back with the couple
Gray hissed as he held his shoulder, "These things bite hard." he said as he started to bleed.
"Let me help you Gray-sama." Juvia said as she tried to stop the bleeding.
"Thanks Juvia." Gray said before wincing again as Juvia tried to stop the bleeding.
"Hold still beloved, it hurts me more than it hurts you." Juvia said.
"Whatever… ow!" Gray said before Artemis slapped him. "How does a teddy bear even hit so hard!?" he asked.
"Be grateful dummy." Artemis said looking angry.
Orion chuckled, "I forgot to mention, Artemis tends to hate most men. As she invented the concept of an amazon." he said.
"Oh now you tell me." Gray said knowing he has to be careful with Artemis as he is with Erza and Lucy.
*CRUNCH*
*ROAR*
Gray quickly held Juvia against the snow, "Where are they!?" he asked.
Orion laughed again, "Don't worry about it. I got it. I wonder if I can sell their pelts." he asked as he held up a large chimera.
Gray sighed in relief, "False alarm Juvia." he said before realizing how close he was to her.
"Gray-sama?" Juvia asked with a flushed face.
"Do you two need space?" Atalanta asked seeing how close their faces were.
"Let's just go!" Gray said as he quickly pulled up Juvia.
"Oh? I thought you two needed more time." Artemis said with a blush.
"Not now Artemis-sama, I'm still not ready!" Juvia said, also having a blush on her face.
Artemis giggled at how adorable she thought Juvia is. All the while muttering about young love. Secretly giving Orion a scary smile to warn him about cheating on her and peaking on nude girls when she isn't around. For the Grand Archer, he clearly had a weakness when it came to his goddess.
It would be at least another hour before they killed off the remaining Chimera. At least they assumed this was the end of the monster infestation in Mt. Hokobe.
"Water Whip!"
"Ice Make Lance!"
Several crashes were heard as yet another Chimera had fallen. With Gray panting as he took a seat in the snow.
"That better be the last one." Gray said as he felt exhausted.
As well as hungry as Juvia heard his stomach growl, "I can make something! Um, is there something besides the chimera I can cook with?" she asked.
Atalanta fired an arrow into the air, "Maybe there's an elk or a deer." she said as several arrows came crashing down around them.
Followed by a loud animal scream.
"That was likely it." Atalanta said before hearing a human scream.
"Who shot me with an arrow!?"
Gray looked curious, "Is that Loke?" He asked as he saw his former guild mate roll down a hill with an arrow on his back.
"That womanizer deserve more than an arrow to the back." Atalanta said coldly.
"Wow, I wouldn't have whined if I knew a pretty lady shot at me." Leo said in a daze.
Atalanta glared at him as she fired more arrows. Making Leo stand up and run away.
"Can we get that elk already?" Gray asked, ignoring Leo's screams of terror.
"Optateshke Okimunpe!"
"What is it now?" Gray asked as Sitonai's polar bear appeared.
The polar bear proceeded to tackle a wyvern before firing multiple arrows at it. Before finishing it off with a quick sword slash. Sitonai hopped off of her polar bear and patted him on the head.
"Good Shirou, good boy." Sitonai said.
"Anyone interested in wyvern meat?" Orion asked.
A short while later
Instead of eating with the others. Achilles and Leo had to lift every chimera body and drop them into a large pile. Where Lucy proceeded to light them on fire. Saying that such unnatural creatures are both an offense and sign of harm within nature.
"Firaga!" Lucy casted, setting the bodies ablaze.
"Won't this melt the snow?" Achilles asked.
"Not with the way I told you to pile them up." Lucy said as he bodies burned.
"Still, where did those freaky things come from?" Leo asked.
"I think I have a good idea, but a place of origin is all that's missing." Lucy said as she thought about Mateus.
"Well if there's nothing we can do about it now. Just hit me up again if you want to hang or if trouble finds you again Lucy." Leo said before returning to the celestial world.
Achilles yawned, "You think the wannabe emperor did this?" he asked.
"Probably not personally. It's hard to tell what he approves or what he dislikes these days." Lucy answered before heading to the campfire where everyone else is at.
Orion let out a burp as he finished eating, "Here love, you take over and enjoy yourself." he said as he turned into a teddy bear and Artemis turned into her goddess form.
"Thank you." Artemis said as she took a seat and ate. She giggled at how good the meat tasted, "If Demeter were here now, she would be complaining about this being unhealthy." she said.
"Lady Artemis, with all due respect. Lady Demeter is said to be motherly and watches out for humans." Atalanta said.
Artemis waved her follower off, "Atalanta, my aunt does not know how to control her motherly instincts. That's one of the reasons my sister Persephone settled down with Hades." she explained.
"What happened?" Gray asked.
"The romantic story otherwise known as Stockholm Syndrome." Achilles said as he took a seat.
"May I hear this story?" Juvia asked.
"No! You, just sit here and enjoy your cooking Juvia." Gray interrupted as he wrapped a fur coat around Juvia.
"Okay Gray-sama." Juvia said as Gray wrapped her tightly.
"You need to stay warm, otherwise you turn into an icicle." Gray said as he clutched Juvia in his arms.
Lucy smiled, "That's adorable, I knew you two would get together." she said.
Gray then got mad, "We're not together! I just don't want Juvia getting sick or something!" he argued.
"Do not raise your voice at me Gray." Lucy said as her eyes turned yellow.
"Yes ma'am." Gray said feebly.
"And don't listen to me. Listen to your future wife." Lucy adds.
"But you just said…"
"Gray." Lucy said sternly.
Gray sighed in defeat, 'Women are so confusing.' he thought.
"Big sister, that boy fails to understand responsibility." Anastasia said adding to Gray's ire.
"I know Anastasia, but Gray will learn the hard way if he has to." Lucy said.
"You people are mean." Gray said.
"And you are an exhibitionist. Such things are not elegant and lack class." Anastasia said pointing at Gray's half naked form.
Gray yelled in surprise, "How!? I was just warming Juvia up right now!" he yelled.
"This is a doomed marriage unless the rain woman changes him for the better." Anastasia said.
"I will help and stand by my love!" Juvia said.
"Don't encourage her Juvia!" Gray exclaimed.
Back at the guild, later at night
Lucy was walking by the guild wen she remembered that Natsu said he wanted to see her. As she ignored Mira's suggestion and failed attempts at playing matchmaker. Lucy decided to be curious and hear what Natsu wanted to say to her. When she found Natsu idly standing by a tree with a shovel in hand. As if he was waiting for her.
"Okay Natsu, what's super important?" Lucy asked, ready to hear whatever nonsense the Dragon Slayer had in mind.
"Hey Luce, you know. I heard about this rumor going on in the guild." Natsu said.
"Oh yeah? I think I know it." Lucy said.
"So you see, I kind of wanted your help to uncover it." Natsu said looking a bit bashful for some reason.
"Oh?" Lucy asked, almost believing the rumors around Natsu being true.
"Yeah so uh… you know. I wanna dig up this ground." Natsu said confusing Lucy. "I heard there's a lot of blackmail material here. With embarrassing photos and stuff. I thought maybe we can dig it up together, maybe with Virgo's help." he said as if he were suppressing his sudden anxiety.
Lucy sighed, "I can't Natsu, she's with Arthur again and apparently she doesn't like being disturbed outside of that." she says noticing Natsu starting to look around nervously. "So is this what you want Natsu? Just a few dirty photos or maybe a magazine hiding under there?" she asked.
"I don't trust anyone but my close friends to help me so that's another reason." Natsu said as he started digging.
Lucy did not believe him, "Quake." she casted, making the ground in front of him split.
Natsu grinned, "Let's see what everyone is hiding!" he said as he pulled out a box.
Only to find some old magazines of old photoshoots. Natsu was sure that some of these were Mirajane when she was younger and still acting like a punk. She was against it but the master encouraged her to do for the guild and likely earn some pay. Clearly Mirajane was born to be a model with how things turned out.
That and a few mankini magazines with some of the guys on the cover. It was gross to say the least but it would be something funny to hold over their heads later. With that, Natsu decided to leave as to not make things any more awkward with Lucy.
"Hold up Natsu, you already know I can sense most emotions." Lucy said, as it was one of her more useful skills meant for battles.
"Uh, so?" Natsu asked.
"Why did you really want to bring me out here?" Lucy asked, sounding a bit demanding.
So Natsu played the annoyed person act, "Hey, I just wanted to hang out Luce! Don't be so superstitious!" he yelled when suddenly Lucy lost control.
Once again, Black Lucy decide to take over, "Natsu~, don't play those games with me." she said whispering into his ear. "If you wanted to ask me out. All you had to do was ask." she said sounding sultry.
Natsu began to shake as his cheeks turned red, "I wasn't doing anything like that!" he lied.
"Don't lie to me Natsu, it makes a bad impression." Lucy said sounding slightly more aggressive.
"I won't I'm sorry! GAH! I'm new to this okay! Are you happy!?" Natsu asked.
Black Lucy giggled, "At least you are trying to be honest." she said before kissing him on the cheek. "Next time, try to take me somewhere nice. It doesn't have to be flashy and expensive, just thoughtful." she said with a giggle.
"O-Okay Luce." Natsu said as he felt a weight leave his chest. Only for Lucy to revert and land on his chest, "What? Do you just switch on your own or are you messing with me!?" he asked angrily.
Lucy whimpered, "Did Black switch with me again?" she asked.
"Yes." Black Lucy whispered.
Lucy groaned, "Okay sorry Natsu, I don't know what happened but maybe I let myself lose control." she said only to hear her dark side laugh.
"It's cool Luce, I just wanted to hang. So uh, do you want to maybe hang out again some other time?" Natsu asked confusing Lucy. "Just us I mean." he said.
Lucy blushed slightly, "Okay, sure." she said feeling unsure about this.
"Do it!" Black Lucy commanded.
'Shut up!' Lucy mentally yelled.
"Cool then, I'll pick out a good place." Natsu said as he hugged her.
"Um okay." Lucy said as she hugged back.
Both not noticing how close they were all of a sudden. At the same time, neither of them noticed Shirou and Ilya hiding in the bushes.
"Teen romance is weird." Shirou said as he looked at his soon-to-be parents. "But it's still unfair. How come I can't remember them?" he asked, feeling depressed that he can't remember adult Natsu and adult Lucy who raised him.
"There there Shirou, nee-chan still loves you." Ilya said as she hugged her brother and patted his back.
The next day
It looked like love was in the air or something as it wasn't even Valentine's Day. A good thing Carin was busy with her father on some task Kotomine gave her. So Ventus was free to relax at the guild. While others were on their own dates or just hanging out with their friends.
"Wow this place has a few familiar faces." Arthur said as he lead Virgo inside.
As they made their way to a table. They saw Kriemhilde giving Siegfried a sickly sweet smile as she held (crushed) his hand at one of the booths. Ironically Brynhilde was with Sigurd in the booth next to him. Sakamoto Ryoma who was trying to make Oryou smile with a good time. Then there was Ozymondias who looked at the couples and pretended not to be lonely and depressed as his own wife was not a heroic spirit. Surprisingly, Artoria was also there with some of her knights just so she can eat some new food items off of the menu.
Arthur chose to ignore them and picked an empty table for him and Virgo.
"Here let me help you." Arthur said as he pulled out the chair for Virgo.
A few minutes passed and the two enjoyed small meals. Arthur started to think about how much time he started to spend with Virgo. Thinking about when he first met her during one of Lucy's summons of her celestial spirits. He thinks it was during a time when they had to clean up the apartment when all of Team Natsu decided to break into the apartment when Lucy's barrier was down.
From there, he tried interacting with her a few times. Although they were difficult as Lucy did not always call on her celestial spirits and did not want to force them to do mundane things. However, there were a few times where he was able to sneak away with Virgo. Which lead to him asking her how a few times.
'I think we've been on two or three dates before mom figured it out.' Arthur thought. For a moment, Arthur thought about his past, 'I know so much, but I can't remember it. It's not memory, just knowledge.' he thought as this time phenomenon was strange to say the least.
"Arthur." Virgo said interrupting his thoughts.
"Yes Virgo?" Arthur asked back.
Virgo looked away for a moment as she reached below her, "I have never pursued a romantic relationship. So pardon me if do not know how to treat these feelings." she said.
"I'm not going to punish you in public Virgo." Arthur said.
"No, I just thought that this would be appropriate to give to you." Virgo said as she handed him a small box.
Arthur's eyes widened, "Hey, I didn't get you anything. Don't you think I'm being unfair if I accept this?" he asked.
Virgo shook his head, "I will be equally happy just for you to accept this." she said.
Arthur smiled, "I'll open this when we get home." He said as opening gifts right away is bad luck in some cultures. "This kind of makes me feel better." he told her.
"How so?" Virgo asked.
"Lately, I've been feeling a bit lost. Sort of out of place with everything going on. So sometimes it s bit hard to get distracted." Arthur said as Virgo reached for his hand.
"I may not understand your experience, but I am always willing to listen. Do not be afraid to speak out to anyone including myself." Virgo said.
"Thanks Virgo, I really appreciate…"
Arthur was suddenly interrupted as the building began to shake. Then suddenly, he noticing many of the servants disappearing as if they were being recalled by Lucy. Leaving him to wonder if something was wrong where his mother needed them back.
"Earthquake? Has Magnolia had an Earthquake before?" Arthur asked.
"We should check, Princess must think trouble is coming." Virgo said as the two exited the store.
"Hey! who's going to pay these bills!?" The manager asked as he saw everyone disappear.
Outside
When the couple exited the restaurant, they saw the entire town being split. Not in a way where an earthquake would destroy them. Rather, it looked like two sides were being pushed away from each other.
"What is this?" Arthur asked.
"We should ask at the guild." Virgo suggests as they head to Fairy Tail.
Where a lot of people got excited as they saw a tall man arrive from the center where the town was splitting.
"He's here! He's finally back!" some of the wizards exclaimed.
"Who's back?" Arthur asked, wondering what warranted all of the shaking in Magnolia.
"Gildarts!" everyone shouts just as the man enters the guild.
Only for this Gildarts man to look around in confusion, "Excuse me, am I in the wrong place?" he asked, having not been in the guild for so long that he was unaware of his guild's change in structure.
When Makarov spoke up, "You are in the right place Gildarts. It's good to see our old Ace come back." he said surprising Arthur along with the rest of Lucy's group.
TO BE CONTINUED…