Chapter 29: A Gathering of Powers III: Trial


The whole kingdom wanted answers.

The tragedy that was the Eclipse Incident caused an uproar among the Fiorian populace. The news spread like wildfire the day after the incident, giving rise to kingdom-wide protests and demands to bring those responsible to justice. The death toll during the battle with the dragons and their time-traveling master wasn't as high as expected thanks to the intervention of one Orihime Kurosaki and her city-wide healing spell, but it still didn't lessen the people's call for retribution.

Now, as the dignitaries reconvened within the chambers of the Magic Council, King Tōma E. Fiore and his daughter, Princess Hisui, stand on the center podium awaiting the start of the trial.

The two royals knew that this day would come. Hisui was willing to accept whatever verdict the council would befall upon her. While it's true that she was manipulated by the future version of Rogue Cheney, the princess was the overall mastermind behind Project Eclipse, thereby making her the prime suspect. Her father, the king, who knew of the plans, would likely be labeled as an accomplice.

As the last person arrived, Gran Doma slammed the bottom tip of his staff on the ground, signaling the need for silence.

"Let us now proceed with the trial." The old chairman's eyes fell on the Royal Family before recounting the events that transpired. "Through multiple testimonies from the wizards and knights involved during the Eclipse Incident, we have deemed the Fiorian Royal Family the primary suspect behind the aforementioned tragedy. However, we will not blindly condemn the king and his daughter without undergoing the proper proceeding nor hearing their side of the story." Gran Doma gestured to the high nobles and said, "Therefore, we would like to hear from His Majesty, King Tōma E. Fiore."

Once the prime ruler of the kingdom heard his name, King Tōma stepped forward. "Before I explain our actions, I would like to express my sincerest apologies to those who lost loved ones during the Eclipse Incident." Humbled and solemn, he continued, "What happened during that fateful day was never our intention. However, what we say or do cannot bring back those who have perished. Any punishment that we are meant to receive this day, we will gladly accept."

Gran Doma closed his eyes and nodded at the king's humility. He may be royalty, but Gran Doma wouldn't play favorites just because he's the ruling monarch of Fiore.

"Your Majesty, we would begin asking a series of questions regarding your involvement with the incident. Know that any form of dishonesty, regardless of your status, will be given due punishment. Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes, chairman."

The king had no reason to lie. He and his daughter are willing to face the consequences of their actions.

"First off, who is the true mastermind behind the Eclipse Project?"

King Tōma glanced at his daughter and got a nod. He then looked to the council chairman again and replied, "While my daughter, Hisui, was the one overseeing the day-to-day operations, it was the future version of the mage Rogue Cheney who was behind the conception of Project Eclipse. I simply provided the funds."

"Is this true?" questioned Gran Doma while looking at the gathered wizards.

"It is, chairman," replied Karin. She and the rest of the Kurosaki family now stood beside the rest of Fairy Tail since they were no longer in for questioning. "I along with some of my guildmates have personally fought the mage and he admitted that he was the one behind the Eclipse Project."

"I see." Gran Doma then stepped back and let Org step forward.

"May I call on Her Majesty, Princess Hisui E. Fiore," requested the old councilmember.

The princess stepped forward without hesitation.

Org began his questioning. "Princess Hisui, is it true that you are the one who oversaw the overall operations of the Eclipse Project?"

"I am," replied the princess.

"What made you initiate such a plan in the first place?"

Hisui sighed. "It was the threat of annihilation that prompted me to undertake such a task."

"Explain," Org stated.

"It was seven years ago that I started Project Eclipse," the princess began. "The future version of Rogue Cheney warned me of the impending invasion of dragons that would arrive on the 7th of July this year. Fearing for the safety of my countrymen, I followed his instructions and used the Eclipse Gate as a weapon against the dragons.

"As you all know, the Eclipse Gate needs an extraordinary amount of magical energy to be operational and can only be activated using the 12 Zodiac Keys. Those requirements alone were too high for us to use the gate. So, along with my father, we organized the Grand Magic Games as a way to gather the necessary energy for the gate to become operational."

"You mean to tell me, Your Highness, that the sole purpose of the Grand Magic Games was to siphon the magical energy from the participants?" Councilman Babaraki posed.

"Yes."

Hearing this admittance appalled the gathered guildmasters. To think that their mages were unwittingly used as a power source for such a device.

Hisui resumed her explanation. "The Eclipse Gate has a function of gathering magical energy from any source whether inanimate or living. On its own, it will siphon magical energy from the atmosphere. However, once it detects a strong power source such as a mage, it will redirect its absorption to that instead. That is why we placed the gate within the deepest confines of the palace."

"Still, what you have was an artifact created by the Black Wizard," reminded Councilman Saban. "That alone is enough to warrant multiple sentences for the illegal possession of forbidden magic artifacts."

"Not only that but the device is also made up of a large amount of Maginium," Councilman Mazuu added. "How Zeref managed to procure such a large amount of magic-resistant metal to create this wretched gate is still a mystery."

"Be that as it may," Gran Doma interrupted, "I would like to know where you procured the device in the first place. I would also like to know if this was used before the events of July 7th."

The two royals looked at each other. The king gestured for his daughter to let him answer.

Those present were also eager to hear how the Royal Family obtained such an item and if it was activated before.

The most eager among these individuals were the two Celestial wizards in Fairy Tail. Lucy and Yukino needed to close the gate when it opened, and it was only with the golden gate keys that they managed to stop the emergence of any more dragons.

"The Eclipse Gate has been entrusted to us Fiores since its creation four hundred years ago," King Tōma began. "We do not know of the reason why this was done but considering the debt and relationship of the Fiore Family to this clan, we accepted out of good faith."

"Then answer my question, your majesty, was the Eclipse Gate used before the events that occurred in Crocus? And what of this clan you speak of?"

"Yes," admitted the king. "It was also on the 7th of July, Year x777 when the device was last used."

The mere mention of the date made the dragon slayers widen their eyes. Natsu, Gajeel, Wendy, and Sting who represented his guild wondered what their dragons' disappearance would have to do with the Eclipse conspiracy.

"We opened the gate so that an individual from the past would arrive in our timeline. I do not know the purpose of her arrival, but my associate ensured me that they mean us no harm."

"And who might this associate of yours be?"

The king sighed. His eyes darted to the wizards of Fairy Tail, specifically their resident blonde Celestial wizard.

Lucy was curious why she was suddenly under the king's attention. From the look on his face, he seemed hesitant to answer. However, she could also tell that whatever his answer would be, it had something to do with her. So, she would listen closely and find out who this mystery person could be.

What she didn't expect though, was that this person was someone very close to her heart.

King Tōma finally returned his gaze to the Magic Council and gave his answer.

"The person whom I helped open the gate fourteen years ago…was none other than Layla Heartfilia."

Lucy's heart sank and her eyes went wide. "W-What? Mom w-was involved?" That was the last thing she expected. Her mother, whom she loved with all her heart, was involved in a conspiracy. "But why?" That was the million-jewel question. Why would someone like Layla Heartfilia open the Eclipse Gate in the first place?

The blonde wasn't the only one surprised at this revelation. Her guildmates were now looking at her curiously.

"By Layla Heartfilia, you mean the late matriarch of the Heartfilia Konzern?" Org questioned which was answered with an affirmative by the king. "If that's the case, then who was the person she opened the gate for?"

"She didn't give me specifics, but I do have a name for the individual; Anna Heartfilia."

Again another bombshell on the Heartfilia heiress. Lucy was familiar with the name. If she recalled correctly, Anna Heartfilia was one of her ancestors from four hundred years ago. Why would one of her forebearers travel to her timeline? Was it similar to Madeline's and prevent a catastrophe?

"Miss Heartfilia," Gran Doma called the blonde, making her flinch at the commanding voice. "Do you have any involvement regarding your mother's conspiracy with the king?"

"Wha– NO!" Lucy adamantly replied.

Seeing as one of their guildmates was being questioned, the members of Fairy Tail became riled up from the unwanted suspicion.

"Hey! You can't just suddenly question Lucy like that!"

"Yeah! That's not fair!"

"How do you even know she's involved in the first place!?"

"She was just a kid back then!"

"SILENCE!" the chairman yelled.

Most of the guild wanted to retaliate but Ichigo stopped them.

"Hold on."

"What!?" Natsu yelled at the reaper. "You're just gonna let them blame Lucy for something she didn't do!?"

"This is a trial, Natsu," answered Ichigo. "Whether you like it or not, everyone who is related or has connections to the suspects will be questioned. However, not once did Gran Doma outright point Lucy as the culprit."

"But…"

"Calm down. I'm sure Lucy is innocent, and the council believes that, too," Ichigo stated while glancing at the officials. "But all of us, one way or the other, will be put into questioning since we were the primary guild that fought against the dragon invasion." He then looked at his guildmates and said, "That goes for all of you. So, let's all be civilized. Besides, the last thing I need is trouble."

He kept that last bit to himself.

Org was inwardly thanking Ichigo Kurosaki for diffusing the situation. It would've been disastrous considering the reputation Fairy Tail had when it comes to protecting its members. The old man had to admit though that the chairman may have been forceful in his questioning of Lucy Heartfilia. With that in mind, he thought that it'd be best if he took over the inquiring for now.

"Miss Lucy, I must apologize if we came across as assertive, but I will assure you that we do not hold you accountable for what transpired between your mother and the king."

The blonde Celestial mage felt a little more at ease now that Org was the one doing the inquiry. "Thank you for the assurance, Councilman Org," she replied.

"You're welcome. Now, if I may be so bold, what do you think could be the reason why Lady Layla would open the gate to let one of your ancestors into our timeline?"

Everyone was now attentive to what Lucy might say. As for the Heartfilia girl in question, the only thing she could remember about her mother was how kind and loving she was. She was also the reason why she wanted to become a Celestial wizard in the first place. Then again, there were still things regarding her mother that she didn't know about; things that the woman kept secret from her.

"Wait a moment! Could the Eclipse Gate be the reason for her death, couldn't it?" she questioned. That moment of realization seemed to connect the dots of her mother's sudden fall to illness.

Org noticed this and was quick to garner the blonde's attention. "It seems you have something to say, Miss Heartfilia."

Lucy nodded. "I do, councilman. Regarding my mother, she was a very sweet and kind individual. She was the reason why I wanted to become a Celestial mage considering she was one. The keys that I have now – well, some of them – were hers. She was the light of our family and when she passed, everything crumbled."

"I'm sorry to hear that, Miss Heartfilia."

"There's no need for apologies. That said, I may have an idea of how my mother fell ill." The one-eyed councilman urged her to continue. "The Eclipse Gate functions by draining the magical energy of anything near it, right? His majesty, the king, revealed that my mother was involved in opening the device years back. I speculate that her illness was the result of the Eclipse Gate siphoning her magical energy when opening it, severely draining her of her power."

Listening to Lucy's explanation, Ichigo found her reasoning sound. "That reasoning makes sense."

"I agree," Erza said. "It completely adds up considering the effects of Eclipse and the circumstances of Layla Heartfilia's passing."

"It was just like what happened to me when I tried using my shikāi," Kazui added. "It also weakened Aunt Yuzu's reishi absorption."

"So, it even affects our Quincy abilities," Ichigo mused. "It makes me wonder if the Eclipse Gate was created using the knowledge of not just magic, but the supernatural world too."

"We can only speculate for now," Loke expressed. "That said, the evidence definitely points in that direction."

"The question here is how Zeref managed to obtain such information to even construct the gate in the first place?" Ophiuchus questioned.

"Honestly? I don't know." Loke's admittance got him looks of slight surprise. "Look, I may be at least a few centuries old it doesn't mean I know everything."

"Well, he's not wrong," Ichigo said, ending the discussion. His and everyone else's attention returned to the trial below.

"So, let me repeat what you said; Layla Heartfilia fell ill when she used up her magical energy to power the Eclipse Gate, thereby letting one of your ancestors, Anna Heartfilia, here in the present. Is that right?"

"Correct," Lucy confirmed. "Other than that, I can't think of anything else about my mother."

"Then we thank you for your input, Miss Heartfilia." Once Lucy's questioning had ended, Org returned to the ruling monarchs and asked, "Are there other details you have left out, Your Majesties?"

"There is one," King Tōma responded. "After Anna Heartfilia exited, five bright lights shot through the gate and flew into the sky before dispersing and disappearing."

While the revelation alarmed the council and its implications, the princess, on the other hand, recalled a vivid memory from childhood.

"Those lights came from the Eclipse?" Hisui wondered. However, there was a small discrepancy between her and her father's claims. "…But I saw six. Was I seeing things or was there more to that day than it seems." She sneaked a glance at her father who continued recounting the events of July 7, x777. There was more than what meets the eye in this conspiracy that even she isn't aware of and, unlike before when she was in the dark, she would do everything she could to uncover the truth.

But for now, as the chairman of the council declared a recess for them to convene and evaluate their findings, Princess Hisui will have to prepare for the judgment that will befall her and accept the ramifications it may entail

It was a short interval; a mere thirty minutes before the Magic Council returned once more to give their verdict finally.

The ten officials stood on their respective platforms, looking down on the Fiore family as they glanced at each other before judging. The Ten Wizard Saints, the guildmasters, and the members of Fairy Tail all waited – some anxiously while others with apathy – for the fate of the king and the princess.

Gran Doma eventually stepped forward, eyeing the two suspects before speaking. "Based on the evidence, testimonies, and eyewitness reports gathered by the investigation team, we, the Magic Council, have found the Fiorian Royal Family guilty of the following crimes: illegal possession of forbidden magic artifacts, extracting magical energy from various mages to power said artifact, conspiring with a dark mage, and finally, causing the deaths of hundreds of mages, knights, and civilians."

Hisui and his father lowered their heads in acceptance. They expected this, and now, they will be accepting the punishment their sentence may entail.

"As such," the chairman continued, "they will be sentenced to ten years of house arrest under twenty-four-hour surveillance from Rune Knights. We will also be confiscating any and all magical artifacts in their possession and forbid them from acquiring anymore until they have served the time. Any person involved in the Eclipse conspiracy or associated with the convicted will also be arrested and stripped of any rank or title. However, we do understand that the kingdom still needs its rulers, so, we will not impede your functions in governing all of Fiore. This verdict is non-negotiable and cannot be rescinded unless the council says so. Am I clear?"

Although a little harsh, those who were present found the punishment sufficient for what the Fiore family committed. While it's true that they were merely puppets, they were still responsible for the execution of Project Eclipse and the decisions that led to the disaster that followed.

"We accept," the king replied humbly. Ten Rune Knights then appeared and escorted him and his daughter out of the conference hall.

There was no resistance whatsoever.

And with that, Gran Doma raised his staff and slammed the tip into the ground. "With the questioning of the Kurosaki family and the trial of the ruling monarchs now concluded, I hereby declare this gathering adjourned." He turned and left the gathering room followed by his fellow councilmen. However, the duty of the Magic Council didn't end there. There are still matters to be discussed regarding the sudden rise of dark guilds and the recent activity of the Alvarez Empire.

As for the other individuals present, the guildmasters who have no other matter to attend to left the Magic Council Headquarters and returned to their respective guilds. The same can be said for Fairy Tail; however, the members couldn't help but feel sympathy for Lucy. None of them, especially the blonde herself, expected for Layla Heartfilia to be involved in all of this.

"You doing alright, Lucy?" Lisanna asked the stellar mage who seemed lost after hearing what her mother did.

"I…honestly don't know," Lucy answered truthfully. She really didn't know. It was all so much for her to take in. "I thought I knew my mother but, all this time, she was keeping secrets from me. She may have kept this secret from father, too."

"Well, this whole Eclipse thing was an absolute clusterfuck," Gajeel expressed, something that was shared by everyone in Fairy Tail. "July 7, year x777; that date keeps coming back."

"I know," Wendy nodded. "It was the same day our dragons vanished."

Natsu was also thinking about the whole incident. while it's true he wasn't as smart as some of his guildmates, he wasn't blind to notice the coincidences regarding the incident and the disappearance of their dragons. "It's just too much to be a coincidence." He looked at his fellow dragon slayers and said, "I think…I think our dragons, the Eclipse gate, and…" he looked at Lucy who looked at him back, "that Anna Heartfilia lady is all connected."

Everyone stared at the pinkette all baffled. This was the first time Natsu actually came up with something conclusive.

"Wow…" Gray said in mild surprise. "Flamebrain's actually using his head."

…And, to no one's surprise, the ice mage got a fist to the face.

"What did you say, ice princess!?" Natsu shouted at the downed Ice Make user.

"That was a compliment, idiot!" Gray retorted and lunged at the Fire Dragon slayer. The next thing that appeared was a dust cloud of fists and feet from the two dunderheads.

Erza had a tick mark appear on her forehead out of annoyance. They were in the headquarters of the Magic Council and these two buffoons had the nerve to cause a kerfuffle right here?

"Natsu, Gray," the redhead seethed as her glare stopped Natsu and Gray's scuffle. "Of all the places to start a bruhaha, it had to be here."

The two were now terrified. They forgot that Erza, Yuzu, and Ichigo were there. However, the female knight was enough to invoke the fear of the Soul King in them. Erza summoned a massive oak club from her Requip space and raised it over her head.

"…Help," the two idiots squeaked while hugging each other.

Too late.

SMASH!

A loud crash thundered within the Magic Council HQ and its casualties were a couple of nincompoops now unconscious and being dragged away by an irate woman.

The other members of the guild chuckled at the scene. Even Lucy was feeling a little better after that.

The blonde sighed. While it's true that her mother did keep this secret from her, she couldn't fault the woman. After all, if one of her ancestors were here, then it must be for a good reason. The only way to find out, though, was to confront Anna Heartfilia.

But it wasn't today. For now, Lucy will enjoy the rest of the day with her friends. Someday, for sure, she will have her answers.


"Are there any updates regarding the activities of the dark guilds?"

Wizard Saints and the council have gathered in a separate hall to discuss the recent escalation of events of the last seven years: the sudden reappearance of Acnologia, the emergence of various artifacts connected to the Black Wizard, the recent spike in dark guild activity, and finally, the mobilization of forces from the Alvarez Empire.

It is distressing that the dark forces of the magic world are now making their move. This is one of the many reasons why this meeting after the trial of the Fiore family and the revelation from the Kurosaki family was held – to prepare for the potential battle between the light and darkness.

Centurion stepped forward.

"Centurion," Gran Doma addressed. "What do you have for us?"

"It concerns the Crime Sorciére, specifically, the many dark guilds that managed to evade them."

The mere mention of Jellal's band of miscreants made half of the council groan. The majority of the council, as well as some of the Wizard Saints, were adamant about apprehending the former dark mages. There are others that seem to be neutral in this regard while a small number were actually sympathetic to them.

Case in point? Warrod and Makarov.

"Speak," the chairman commanded.

The Machias nodded and began his statement. "Just as expected, the remaining dark guilds that were under the allegiance of either Oración Seis or Grimoire Heart have switched sides to Tartaros. Others simply disbanded."

"Yes, we have observed such developments from our own investigations," commented councilman Loewen. "Is there other news you have found?"

"It pertains to a rather new dark guild called Avatar," answered Centurion.

"Isn't that the dark guild Solaseed encountered a few years back?" councilman Sid questioned, remembering the name.

"Yes," confirmed the warrior nun. "Right after I left the Legion Corps, I fought Avatar and apprehended most of its members. Hearing from Centurion that the dark guild was still active to this day meant some of its prominent members managed to escape."

"Not anymore," Brosnan chirped. "With their guildmaster in custody thanks to Centurion, which would be the last we'll see Avatar."

"Moving on," Org stated. "One of the guilds under Tartaros, Succubus Eye, has recently acquired a new member. The identity of the individual is still unknown; however, they seem to be active near the desertic part of the kingdom, specifically in a rather mountainous area that was that underwent reforestation through Warrod Sequen's magic."

The mentioned wizard fell into quick contemplation. "I think I remember that place," Warrod revealed, confirming the council's report. "That place was home to a village of giants!"

The mere mention of giants was enough to warrant the full attention of Furena, the 8th Wizard Saint. "Are you positive of this, Warrod?"

The old mage nodded. "I am, my child."

Her suspicions were confirmed and the purple-eyed woman frowned, worry etching her face. "That's the Sun Village," she divulged. "That's the place I was raised along with Flare."

Makarov glanced at her. "Flare? As in, the Raven Tail mage?"

Furena sighed. "Yes, that Flare." The commander of the Rune Knights bowed before Makarov and humbly apologized. "I am truly sorry, Master Makarov, about Flare's actions during the Grand Magic Games. It was only recently that I found out she had left the village and joined Raven Tail. Rest assured I will personally deal with her."

"It's alright, Furena," Makarov said to the 8th Wizard Saint. "While Flare did do those things, it was at the behest of my son, Ivan. She only needs guidance and the right people beside her."

"Thank you for your generosity, Master Makarov."

The next on the council's agenda was the state of the Rune Knights and the various improvements added to their arsenal.

"What of the flying fortress we procured from Grimoire Heart?" questioned councilman Sid.

"The airship has been modified to suit the army's needs," Furena answered since she was the overall commander of the Run Knights. "Thanks to Captain Cypher of the 1st Custody Enforcement Unit, it now serves as our mobile base of operations. More functions were added to the magic flyer through Captain Cypher's Machina-Make magic.

"Currently, the researchers from the Bureau of Magical Development are tasked to reverse engineer the vessel to one day create our own fleet in the hopes of fighting off Alvarez's fleet considering the recent mobilization of their military."

"Speaking of Alvarez, we've been receiving reports from the border towns of soldiers bearing the Alvarez colors. This is very concerning."

"Indeed," councilman Babaraki agreed. "They might attempt another invasion just like a decade ago. The only things that deterred them were Etherion and Face. We no longer have our magic weapon and activating Face would be suicidal."

"Have steps been taken to strengthen our military?" the chairman finally spoke after listening to his subordinates.

"Recruitment seems to be at its all-time highest, chairman," councilwoman Noura replied. "That said, it won't matter if our forces aren't trained properly." She then focused on the commander of the Rune Knights. "Furena, have you intensified the training of our knights?"

"I have, councilwoman," answered the commander. "In fact, 2nd Custody Enforcement Unit Captain Shiverpeak has sent out a request to assist in the training of her troops." Furena turned her gaze towards Makarov and said, "Once the truth about the Kurosaki family was brought to light, I specifically ordered her to alter that request and ask for Yuzu Kurosaki's help."

"Oh? Why her if I may ask?" Warrod questioned the officer.

"It must be because of Yuzu's proficiency in archery," Makarov replied instead. "Quincies were known to be elite archers and, considering that the 2nd Custody Enforcement Unit focuses on long-range assaults, she'd be the perfect instructor."

"She will be rewarded handsomely, Master Makarov," Furena stated. "Her payment would be 90,000,000 Jewels paid upfront."

The third/sixth guildmaster nearly stumbled upon hearing the ridiculous sum of money. "THAT MUCH!?"

The Rune Knight just shrugged.

"How about you, Lady Brosnan?" Jura asked the guildmistress of Mermaid Heel. "Anything to report to this meeting?"

"Nothing of interest," Cassandra Brosnan said. "The only thing I did was deal with port merchants in the port city of Chaldea." She then sighed. "I really wished I was there during the Grand Magic Games to support my guild. While it's true that win or lose, I'll be proud of them, I still find it disappointing not to see their Kagura and her guildmates' performance up close."

"There's always next time, Cassandra," Hyberion expressed. However, his expression turned a little serious when he began recounting his investigation. "My sources have told me that Tartaros is managing a few laboratories across Fiore." The others urged him to continue. "What research they've been doing? I'm not sure. What I am certain of is that Tartaros is working with four individuals."

"Who could they be?" Solaseed asked. "Are they dark wizards?"

"That was my original hunch but when I crosschecked the intel I gathered, it doesn't seem so."

"What do you mean?"

"They look like humans but that's about it. My hunch is that they are demons of some kind, and they are the ones overseeing the operations of these facilities."

Gran Doma was stroking his beard while pondering the information revealed by Fiore's second-strongest wizard. "Did your sources manage to get their description?"

"They did," answered the vampire-themed wizard. "These four individuals all wear some sort of white tunic carrying swords – suggesting their proficiency in sword combat. What was most striking, though, was that they all wore broken masks on different parts of their face. Three of which looked like a bird's while one, presumed to be the leader, had what looked like a pincer-like jaw on his left cheek."

"Keep us informed, Hyberion," Gran Doma requested which was accepted by the 2nd God of Ishgar. "Anything else? Centurion, you seem to have something to say."

"I do," stated the living machine. "During my hunt for dark guilds, I stumbled upon a base filled to the brim with scrolls. Curious, I used my scanners and found out that they were once human." All attention was now on him. "The intriguing part of this was the trace of unknown power that acted like magic, but its inherent properties were different."

"Could it be this spiritual energy mentioned by the Kurosaki family?" Mazuu, another council member, suggested.

"No," replied Centurion. "I've analyzed spiritual energy during the meeting with the Kurosaki family and what I found during my hunt was completely different." He clarified.

This was concerning. The majority of the Wizard Saints were worried about what this meant. Maybe Tartaros was involved? Most probably since they're the only major dark guild left from the Balam Alliance.

"In light of these events, I would order the Rune Knights to increase their vigilance of any suspicious activities of Tartaros," Furena promised, and she wasn't the only one who did.

"I'll be using my connections within Legion Corps to help in this endeavor," Solaseed added.

"As you should for you are the continent's Wizard Saints," declared Gran Doma with his commanding voice, reminding them of their role as the kingdom's protectors. "If no other intel will be presented, then I hereby close this meeting." Slamming the tip of his staff on the ground, the chairman left the conference room and was followed by his fellow council members.

As for the Wizard Saints, they still had another thing to attend to…

And it involved a certain god of death and his family.


"Is this absolutely necessary?" Ichigo questioned as he and his family (now including Yukino) followed Makarov to the private lounge reserved for the Wizard Saints.

"Not really," Makarov replied. "However, the other saints requested your presence. Some are actually eager to meet all of you."

"Well, we are from another world but the novelty of that usually disappears quickly," Karin remarked. "It's not like they don't know that other worlds exist. You have that Edolas dimension that's basically the flipside of Earthland."

"While it's true that the existence of Edolas is known within the higher echelons of the magic community, it's the fact that your people have direct influence over the cycle of life and death that held their interest," the old guildmaster explained. "Only the likes of Anhkseram have dominion over the cycle of reincarnation."

"It could cause major belief systems in Earthland to be upended," Yuzu stated. "Imagine the public outcry that their long-held faith was wrong and that the true gods of death walk among them."

"Not to mention that Quincies could literally destroy souls," Makarov added. "So far, only forbidden spells and lost magic could accomplish such a feat. Yet all of you, maybe even Yukino, could do it like it's second nature."

Yukino looked at her father out of curiosity. Would she really gain the ability to annihilate souls?

"I know what you're thinking, Yukino, and yes, you will gain that ability," Ichigo answered knowing what her daughter was about to ask. "It's like a side effect of gaining Quincy powers."

"Oh," exclaimed the Quincy trainee. "I'm not sure I'd like having that kind of power."

"It is what it is, honey," Orihime said. "That's why we're training you to control your new powers. Discipline and self-restraint are the hallmarks of any great warrior, after all."

Yukino nodded in understanding.

"It's like that comic book Dad used to tell me," Kazui chimed in. "With great power comes great responsibility!"

"That's not technically what the saying meant but it's close enough," Ichigo told his son with a sweatdrop.

A few minutes later, Makarov and the Kurosaki family eventually arrived at the common room where the Wizard Saints had gathered. Inside, the distinguished wizards were mingling with each other, talking about certain events that were occurring within Ishgar as well as everything that had transpired earlier. When the doors finally opened, they were greeted with the arrival of the most famous – or rather infamous – family in all of Fiore.

"Mackie!" Warrod called rather excitedly especially after seeing Ichigo. "And you brought Ichigo with you! It's a pleasure to finally meet him and the rest of his family."

Jura approached the family of six and offered his greetings. "It's good to see you, Lord Ichigo and Lady Orihime."

"Ugh, whatever," groaned the adult reaper at the overly formal wizard. "Likewise, Jura."

The other Wizard Saints followed suit, curious and intrigued about the spirit warriors. One by one, they all began introducing themselves.

"A pleasure to meet you, Ichigo Kurosaki. My name is Centurion, a member of Quatro Puppy and the 6th ranked among the Ten Wizard Saints." The living machine extended his hand which Ichigo politely took.

"It's a pleasure," replied the patriarch. "Are you, by any chance, a robot?"

"Hahaha!" Centurion laughed. "I knew you'd ask that. To answer your question, yes, I am a living machine. I'm part of the Machias race."

"Cool!" Kazui exclaimed in excitement. Suddenly a woman in a fancy red dress dropped down to his eye level and looked at his young face. "Ummm…hello?"

Without warning, the woman grabbed his cheeks and pinched them hard. The boy yelped in surprise until he was finally let go to massage his now mildly swollen face.

"You are so adorable," remarked the well-dressed woman. "And judging by how gorgeous your parents are, there's no doubt you'll be popular with the ladies when you hit puberty."

Karin snickered at her nephew's predicament and decided to add more teasing to the mix. "Kazui already has a girl who's head over heels for him."

"Wendy is not head over heels for me!" Kazui snapped back at his aunt, unknowingly falling into her trap.

"I never mentioned it was Wendy," Karin reminded with a smirk. This made Kazui red-faced and stammer some incoherent words.

The woman who pinched the boy's cheeks laughed at the awkward, yet cute predicament Kazui found himself in. "He sure is a spry one," she commented before introducing herself to Karin. "I'm Cassandra Brosnan, guildmistress of Mermaid Heel and the 7th ranked Wizard Saint."

"A pleasure to meet you." Karin held out her hand. "Karin Kurosaki, Soul Reaper."

"I dare say, I never expected death gods to look like you."

"We get that impression a lot," the reaper lady rolled her eyes at the stereotyping.

"Your brother outmatched my best wizard during the Grand Magic Games. I wouldn't be surprised if you're just as skilled as him."

"Heh, I know I'm good but I'm nowhere near Ichigo's level."

Meanwhile, two women were introducing themselves while they shared a meal near the window. Specifically, it was Solaseed conversing with Yuzu about Soul Society and the Soul King.

"Fascinating!" Solaseed exclaimed after hearing the Quincy's explanation of the afterlife. "I never knew the afterlife had so much of a rich history. However, I do wonder – do sinners go to Soul Society too?"

"No," Yuzu answered. "The purpose of a Soul Reaper is to purify souls and send them to Soul Society. If the person has done so much crime in his life, then he will be sentenced to Hell."

"Then the wicked truly get punished." The nun felt relieved after hearing this. While the Zentopia church held a different perspective, she was glad that there was indeed a creator. The only thing that dampened this was that said deity was dead…and at the hands of his own son, no less.

Finally, Orihime was busy chatting with the oldest mages of the renowned group, specifically Makarov, Hyberion, Warrod, and Wolfheim. The Weaving Maiden happily munched on the usual weird food combination on her plate while answering some questions from the elders.

"How has Earthland treated you, Lady Orihime?" Hyberion asked as he sipped some red wine. "I do hope it is to your liking?"

"It's nice," happily answered the Fullbringer. Although, being addressed like a noble was still making her a bit embarrassed. "After learning the language, it was great interacting with everyone."

"You humble us with your kind words, milady."

The rusty-haired woman was waving her hands out of embarrassment when Wolfheim decided to ask her. "I'm curious. How'd you managed to remain hidden for fifteen years? People like your family tend to stick out like a sore thumb with all the power you possess."

"It was hard, at first," Orihime began to explain, "Ichigo was the one who stood out the most since he could barely control his power when we first arrived here. It took at least until Kazui was born before he managed to reign in his spiritual energy."

"The more I hear about Ichigo, the more I become impressed at the man," Warrod commented, a genuine sense of pride in his voice.

"That he is, Warrod," Makarov agreed before suddenly adding, "But don't you dare say it's a joke!"

"Nonsense, Mackey! Hahaha!" the tree man simply laughed.

A little over an hour passed. All members of the Kurosaki family were having idle chats with the Wizard Saints. The tense atmosphere that ruled over the courtroom was absent and only the air of lighthearted banter between family members, gossip among the women, and funny joking from the comical. All in all, it was what this gathering was supposed to be.

"So, this is the famed Death God? I am not impressed."

Sadly, someone had to ruin it.

Walking pompously into the hall was none other than God Serena, Fiore's strongest mage and the number one Wizard Saint. Immediately, his fellow saints found his presence annoying and would rather he never attended. The arrogant mage strutted like he owned the place, looking down on the other wizards. However, his attention was focused more on the family who was the center of this little get-together.

"It is not wise to talk like that to our guests, Serena," Hyberion reminded the 1st-ranked saint but it fell on deaf ears.

"And you should know that's not the way to talk to your betters, old man," stated God Serena.

Karin was watching this happening and just looking at the God Serena, especially when he did some over-the-top silly pose, she already doesn't like him. "Oh great," she moaned in annoyance. "A blowhard."

The Wizard Saint heard the insult. His attention was now on Karin and waltzed towards the female reaper. "Did you say something, woman?"

Karin, and by extension the rest of the Kurosaki family, was well aware of the power behind God Serena. The mage's reserves were greater than anyone in the room. However, all members (even Kazui) were confident that they could take on this prick even without Bankai or Vollständig.

"For a supposed dragon slayer, your ears don't seem to be functioning," Karin sassed.

This angered the proud wizard and got up close with the reaper, thinking he could intimidate her. He didn't.

"You should know your place, you fake."

"Fake?" questioned a confused Karin.

"Claiming to be gods of death…how absurd!"

Apparently, God Serena didn't like being upstaged by anyone. He is the undisputed strongest in all of Ishgar and with it comes the respect he thinks he deserves. A vain individual, the powerful dragon slayer always wanted to be the center of attention and would even do exaggerated poses just to emphasize his point. His arrogance was so high that any criticism directed toward him was taken as a compliment. Yet despite that, he held incredible power and remained as the continent's strongest.

However, it all changed when that unfathomable pressure embraced the entire continent. That power…oh so overwhelming, eclipsed God Serena's very own by great miles. The difference was literally heaven and earth. The dragon slayer could not take it. Such power existed that surpassed the mighty Eight Dragon God Serena? And when he learned that these beings, especially the one person who unleashed that otherworldly weight who claimed to be gods, he just had to see it for himself and prove to them that nothing can stand up to his power.

Ishgar's strongest sneered at the black-clad reaper's defiance. "You are nothing but mere men and women making false claims. To have appeared out of nowhere and proceeded to declare yourselves as the masters of life and death? You are but an upfront to magic world and fakes who do not fit within Earthland."

"That's enough, God Serena!" Makarov chastised. "They have done nothing to warrant such aggression from you."

"You such your mouth, weakling!" God Serena yelled back. "I will not take kindly the words from someone who got demoted to a mere tenth in our little league." His attention then returned to Karin. "And as for you and your family, these lowlifes may believe that you are gods but not me. Your measly 'spiritual energy' is nothing compared to the might of eight dragon kings residing within me," boasted the man.

"Really? Then where the fuck were you when Crocus needed help?" Karin questioned, driving up a good point that all the other Wizard Saints wondered about.

However, the prideful wizard merely dismissed Karin's question and retorted, "Like I, God Serena, would ever answer the questions of an upstart like you!"

"Now, now." The gentle voice of Orihime captured the focus of the two arguing adults. "We came here to enjoy ourselves and get to know each other," she said trying to diffuse the quarrel. "Let's just leave all of this behind and continue on with the feast."

"As if I'd listen to you," spat the haughty dragon slayer.

Orihime meant no harm in her actions and even the rest of the saints could see that. Nonetheless, God Serena did the one thing a sane person would ever do…

"Bitch."

…insult someone's wife.

Yuzu cringed. "…And he's dead."

Even Karin began feeling pity for the idiot. "This isn't going to end well…for him. Not that I care, though."

The moment Ichigo heard his wife getting insulted, he immediately saw red. It was one thing to mock him directly considering he doesn't give two shits about other people's opinions, but to insult Orihime – the woman who stood beside him in his darkest times and gifted him their son – was the ultimate mistake anyone could make against him.

To make it simple: God Serena committed suicide.

"What did you say, asshole?" Ichigo's voice was low, but there was hidden anger within it.

"Well, if it isn't the man himself." God Serena had this smug look of condescension. "What does a freak like you want with someone of my stature?"

Ichigo got into God Serena's face, still seething in silent fury. "I don't care if you don't believe what we said during that conference but I'm not about to let you insult my wife. So, here's what you're going to do; you're going to apologize to her right in front of everyone here."

Unsurprisingly, the dragon slayer scoffed. "As if I would apologize to the whore of–"

God Serena didn't say anything further when he was suddenly backhanded by the reaper.

"Damn," Karin muttered. "The tool got bitchslapped."

As for the man who got slapped, he was left stunned. No one has ever laid a finger on him, and this individual dared slapped him? Him? The God Serena, the mightiest of all in Ishgar.

"You," growled the now irate mage. His power suddenly skyrocketed, shaking the room they were in and leaving the other Wizard Saints ready to intervene if things go out of hand. "How dare you slap me, you mongrel!" His pride taking a critical hit, God Serena decided to show this insect who was superior. "You asked for this! Gale Dragon…"

Every Wizard Saint scrambled.

"God Serena, stop!"

"You fool!"

"Don't do it!"

Unfortunately, the wizard didn't listen and continued powering up. But, before he could finish, a hand suddenly covered his face and slammed his head into the ground. God Serena's dragon breath vanished, and he was left staring at a pair of golden irises swimming in a sclera of blackness. It was then followed by the same pressure that blanketed all of Ishgar, the only difference was it was all focused on him and him alone.

"Listen to me and listen well," Ichigo commanded, his voice now hollow-like. "I could care less if you believe that we're death gods or not. I don't even give a flying fuck if you keep that stupid title of yours." The reaper's face inched closer to the mage. "But, insulting anyone from my family, especially my wife, son, and sisters, is a line you should have never crossed."

All that bravado God Serena had completely disappeared. In its place was an emotion he never thought he would experience.

Fear.

This person before the strongest of Ishgar's gods was no human. The feeling that he gave off wasn't that of any wizard he encountered. There was this sense of dread emanating from the reaper and his eyes showed no hint of hesitance to take a life. The dragon slayer could fight, but from the pressure Ichigo exuded, there was no doubt that there was more to it than he let on. He couldn't do anything. Like a rat, he was cornered by a ferocious beast out for blood.

For God Serena who was powerful, in the face of absolute power, he was powerless.

"Ichigo, stop."

The pressure lifted thanks to Orihime's sweet voice. Ichigo let go of his hold on the arrogant mage and slowly went to his wife's side. He checked on her, wanting to know if she was alright. Thankfully, the Fullbringer didn't let those mocking words get to her. As for Ichigo though, he decided that they might have overstayed their welcome.

"I think it's time for me and my family to leave," he stated after facing the other mages. "It was nice getting to know all of you…well, some of you," he said after taking a quick glance at the petrified dragon slayer.

Karin, Yuzu, and Kazui followed the two to the door but before they exited, the Kurosaki family bowed, showing their gratitude for the time and meal they were given. After that, they finally left.

No words could describe what just happened, but one thing was certain: God Serena was finally put in his place. To think that it took a literal god to give the high-and-mighty wizard a reality check. For the Wizard Saints, it was a long time coming that even the grumpy Wolfheim couldn't help but chuckle that the pompous tool got knocked off his high horse.

For the 1st ranked Wizard Saint, on the other hand, he was never humiliated in all of his life. His initial fear gradually morphed into rage. In a fit, he quickly got back up and stormed off to his personal chambers to make a call to someone of importance.


"I received the message, God Serena," an old bearded figure answered through a communication lacrima. "I must say, this Ichigo Kurosaki and his family are quite interesting."

"I don't care if he's interesting or not," replied the furious dragon slayer. "That mongrel humiliated me in front of the other Wizard Saints, and I can't stand that!"

"Calm down, boy," said the old man in the device. "Do not let that anger get the best of you."

"You weren't there, August. That…man, he didn't feel human. I actually felt powerless before him."

"Then that only means he is a threat to his majesty's plans and that of the empire."

"I don't care what kind of contingencies you'll have for him. Just promise me one thing…"

The man, now identified as August, raised a curious eyebrow. "Oh? What would that be?"

God Serena stared intently at the image of his superior. No one dares embarrass the mighty Eight Dragons and get away with it. He will show this Ichigo Kurosaki that there is only one god, and it is him.

He made up his mind. What better way to put that heathen in his place than with his bare hands? His anger devolved in anticipation and his scowl became a malicious grin.

"Let me be the one to kill him."


A/N: ModernRogue11 here and this took a lot longer than I wanted. At least, I get to continue this story and present some new characters to boot. It was thanks to Warmachine375 who provided the names for the OCs that would fill up the vacant wizard saint position. Props to you, my man!

Now, talking about the anime, all I can say is HOLY SHIT, EVERYTHING IS ABSOLUTE FIRE! Bleach has never looked this beautiful and Episodes 5-7 absolute peak. There's no doubt in my mind that this season will undoubtedly be the best.

With all that said, please leave a like and comment if you have some things to share. Any opinion is always appreciated...just make sure it's constructive and not outright bashing.

Anyway, see you then.