Hi people! Thanks everyone for your reviews, I'm glad to see them. Many thanks.
Here are the answers for your questions.
Toaneo07 Ver2.0: Yes and no. As far as I understand the "god spells" as you called them were created to declare the parental deity for an artificial god slayer. But Natsu is Shin [True] God Slayer – he was raised by a real goddess, so he does not need some spell to give a name for his parent god. However, Morrigan will be mentioned in the name of Natsu's ultimate spell by her nickname – Phantom Queen.
Sable1212: Yeah, future arcs will be altered more than Eisenwald's arc.
FanFictionHunter: Thanks man.
Guest: I'll reveal the story about Natsu's arm during Phantom Lord arc or Tower arc.
NNeko: I thought about it but in the end I decided that it will be a confusing factor for readers.
fred872: Many thanks. Just remember – social interactions are secondary in this story. There will be many of them of course but I want to focus on adventures here. This chapter is exclusion.
Everyone: Thanks for the reviews people, now let's continue. This chapter is completely original and contains the story of Natsu's maturing. I'm intentionally did not include Erza's thoughts here – there will be other chapters for her memories. This is the mostly social chapter, so even Natsu/Erza fight won't be too detailed. Also, I had to move the FT timeline slightly. I'm afraid this chapter did not become as romantic as I wanted but… Oh well, I'll try to compensate it later =)
Omake – Let's talk about dragons.
Erza: "Hey, Mr. Author – why can't you just leave me with the Flame Dragon Spells?"
Author: "Because flame is just too simple, my dear. This world isn't simple, so simple flame won't fit a main character. Don't worry, I'll find a proper magic for a graceful girl such as yourself."
Erza (blushing): "Thanks… but which dragon will fit me then?"
Natsu: "Hey, I got an idea! Make her a War Dragon Slayer! She could feed me with her magic."
Author: "Don't get smart. You should be thankful that I didn't make you a Sewers God slayer. Try to imagine yourself drinking a sewers water to replenish your strength."
Natsu (with green face): "Screw you…"
Erza: Burst of laugh.
Author: "Stop laughing or I'll make you a Perfume Dragon Slayer with Ichiya constantly swirling around you…"
Erza: Fainted…
Author: "Now, let's go for the chapter."
Chapter updated 30/11/2016
Chapter VIII – Natsu's Diary
…
July 13, Year X784, 2:00, Magnolia's outskirts, Natsu Bloodfallen's bedroom.
Erza suddenly woke up. She was breathing rapidly, her face was covered with cold sweat. The girl perplexedly looked around herself. She was in Natsu's… no, in her bedroom. Since Erza and Natsu have to hide their relationships no longer, they are going to live together from now on. Tomorrow she is going to move from Fairy Hills into this house. Natsu peacefully slept beside her, his face buried in the pillow. Erza instinctively touched him, as if to check that he is real.
"You had that nightmare again?" The god slayer asked through his pillow, before turning to his fiancée.
"Yeah… I'm sorry to wake you up…" Erza replied. Once again, in her dream, she saw the Tower of Heaven, the cultists, and heard Jellal's voice as her eleven years old self trembled in fear and tried to cover her tiny body from insane cultists.
"It's I who should be sorry for not making you exhausted enough and, thus, allowing you to see any dreams at all…" Natsu said as he sat up in bed and embraced his beloved. Without any clothes, her porcelain skin shone beautifully under moonlight.
"Ecchi…" Erza said, but a little smile beamed on her face. Natsu released her, hopped out of the bed and started to dress up. "What are you doing?" She asked in confusion.
"Is it not obvious? You won't be able to sleep for some time and I do not want to sleep without you, so I'm going to the backyard for some training. Come on, join me," Natsu said, putting on his coat.
Erza smiled thankfully. She did not even try to convince him to resume his sleep or to say that he does not have to do it; she already learned that it wouldn't work. It was not her first nightmare that woke her up when she was in his bed and he always woke up with her and always was able to find something to do for the two of them to distract Erza from wandering further into her memories, from thoughts about that damned tower. "Almost three months since the last nightmare… Damn you Siegrain…" Erza was sure that it was his appearance that provoked her past to pop up in her dream once again. She ex-quipped her normal white shirt and blue skirt, and took Natsu's hand. "All right, lead the way…" She smiled again.
They walked outside and Erza looked to the night sky. "The stars are especially beautiful tonight… Looks like they are lighting up our way to our new, joint life," Natsu pointed up, making his beloved to giggle.
"Who would have thought that you are such a hopeless romantic…" Erza said, tightening her grip on his palm. 'And I'm so happy that you showed to me this part of your personality…' Titania did not intend to even try to imagine how her life would've looked right now without Natsu, her body and her soul now belongs to him.
"Hey, my mother is one of the top-ranked deities of the dark pantheon, so some light symptoms of a bipolar disorder should not be an issue…" The god slayer smiled. "However, you should be a very, very special girl to see this part of me. It took a lot of time for both of us to see each other outside of our common behavior…" Natsu added, causing Erza to smile too. "Do you remember? How we met for the first time?"
Titania chuckled. "As if I could forget. You made quite an appearance back then…"
Flashback
Natsu's diary: …at last I made it to the town of Magnolia. I decided to stop at one of the town's hotels for now. At tomorrow's morning I'm going to speak with Fairy Tail's master. I think this town will fit me just fine. It's not small enough to be under feudal rule, but also not big enough to cause me a constant headache from too many people around. Oh, I'm really hope that this journey was worth it…
May 21, Year X781, about 9 o'clock, Fairy Tail Guildhall.
"At least Mirajane and Erza calmed down for a bit, I'm so tired of their constant brawls…" The dark-blue eyed young man said to a tall white-haired fellow.
"Yeah, I can't deny Mira-nee's manliness (hey, she's a girl!), but her fights with Erza have become too intense recently…" Elfman agreed as Gray shook his head.
"Gray, where are your clothes?" A miniature blue-haired girl asked.
"Gaaah! Why does this keeps happening!" Gray screamed in panic as he heard Levy's question.
"Hey! Where's my strawberry cake?!" An angry girl's voice called out, gaining unconditional attention from at least half of the guild. "Don't tell me that this whore stole it again!" The scarlet haired girl shouted in frustration.
"What did you call me?!" Another girl's voice shouted as Mirajane jumped down from the second floor. Immediately the two girls slammed their foreheads against one another's, spitting different insults toward each other.
"Not again…" Cana muttered as she realized that another brawl between those two S-class girls is inevitable. Mirajane passed the S-class exam about half a year ago, at the age of sixteen, and Erza passed the exam about fourteen months ago, at the age of fifteen.
Suddenly, the guild doors opened and someone appeared on the guild's doorstep. A salmon haired boy, about fifteen years old, made a step into the guildhall. He was dressed in snow-camo army pants, black leather boots and black/gold one-sleeved coat. His left hand was encased in a dark-brown, leather glove. But that boy's most remarkable detail were his eyes. His left one was burning with cold, dark blue flame as his right one was glowing with crimson light.
The boy began to look around, ignoring the fact that he became the center of attention, even Erza and Mira stopped their arguing and now were staring at him.
"So, this is Fairy Tail… Not too impressive, don't you think?" The boy asked as the last addition to his weird image appeared and landed on his shoulder. A small, glowing skeletal creature shook his boney skull.
"Let's not judge the book by its cover," Sin suggested.
"Okay, let's find the master…" Natsu agreed.
"Hey, who the hell are you!?" Gray came closer to the strange visitor.
"Does that matter?" Natsu asked indifferently as he stepped forward. "I did not ask why you are in your underpants, though it reeks of exhibitionism. Is this a guild of perverts?" Natsu inquired, making several guild members to laugh.
'Hmm, this guy reacted just like Erza back then…' Macao thought, remembering Erza's reaction at Gray's habit to strip to his underwear.
"What?! Listen, you… I won't let you mock me and our guild! Aisu Meiku: Sōdo!" [Ice Make: Sword] Gray created a sword made of ice and pointed it at Natsu. "Apologize to me!" Gray demanded, but the god slayer remained indifferent.
"No," Natsu said and took another step forward but Gray blocked his way with his ice sword.
"So, you are an ice mage…" Natsu sighed, "In our world, there are different kinds of ice, you know?" The god slayer said as he grabbed Gray's sword with his left hand. It started to glow with dark blue light as the salmon haired boy said "Zetsurei" [Absolute Zero]. The air around him became so cold that even Gray shivered.
"What the-?! The ice-mage is freezing?!" Elfman exclaimed in surprise as Gray's sword started to become dark-blue. It became so cold that the ice-mage had to remove his hand from the sword's hilt. Several seconds later the ice sword crumbled to pieces.
"He… He just froze the ice sword to the point that it crumbled?!" Levy asked in shock as the sword's slithers fell on the floor. Natsu took several steps forward, before his way was blocked once again, this time by Mirajane.
"If I were you, I would not turn up your nose too high," The platinum blonde stated boldly.
"If I were you, I would shave my armpits before putting on revealing clothes," Natsu replied, with the same indifferent voice, "You're a grown-up girl, you know? Or it's only in this department?" He added, shifting his gaze at Mirajane's chest, which was already pretty remarkable in terms of size.
Mirajane's face instantly became red as the whole guild became silent (and Erza chuckled a little). The she-devil growled angrily and without saying anything tried to punch Natsu in the face. Everyone was able to feel a slight shockwave from her fist, but Natsu easily blocked her and caught her fist with his palm. Mira made another attack but her second hand also has been caught.
"Pathetic attempt…" Lil Dragon commented from Natsu's shoulder as latter slightly pushed the girl away, releasing her arms. The whole guild was shocked by the fact that Natsu easily matched Mirajane's power and speed.
"Stop it!" Erza demanded, addressing Mirajane.
"Now, as we all have learned that none of you are match for me, can I speak with the guild master?" Natsu asked, ignoring the angry she-devil. "Or does anyone else want to challenge me? I have a sword, too," The god slayer addressed Erza, noticing the sword at her waist.
"No, thanks," Erza retorted, keeping a stiff upper lip. She had no intentions to do… well, anything with this weird person (persons?). "Master is not here at the moment, you can wait for him there," She waved toward the hall, meaning that Natsu can choose any table and sit there. Natsu nodded slightly and moved toward the farthest table.
"Who do you think you are?!" Mira shouted at Erza, irritated by the fact that knight-mage allowed this weird person to pass, acting as if she is in charge here.
"Stay down. If he came to speak with the master then it means that it has nothing to do with you," Erza stated, turning away.
Natsu and Sin retreated into the farthest corner of the guild. "Hey, have you noticed?" Little boney creature asked.
"A lot of things," Natsu replied, "Care to specify?"
"The little girl with a sword," Sin's glowing pupils, which were floating inside of his empty eye sockets, snuck a glance at Erza, who, by the way, wasn't little at all. She actually hit 16 about six weeks ago, and seemed quite grown-up, especially in certain places.
"What about her?" Natsu wondered, "You mean her inborn magical attribute?"
"Yep," Sin nodded.
"Yes, that was a bit surprising…" Natsu agreed. "Quicksilver, a combination of fire and metal… Rare by itself, but having such a perfect balance. As they say – only one in ten million is born with such a balanced combination. To think that I'll find one in such a remote place…"
"And she has such a big manapool…" Sin shook his skull, "Too bad, in this forsaken region, it's so difficult to find a fitting magic type to fully unlock her potential…"
"Well, in any case, it has nothing to do with us," Natsu concluded and Sin nodded.
Natsu's diary: ...As I suspected, the members of Fairy Tail mostly are ordinary and shallow-minded people, most of whose also are mediocre mages, at best. However… there is something in that scarlet haired girl with the sword. It's not about her very rare attribute, it is something else… she is not like the others… her soul… is special… Seems like even I can't find proper words to describe it… Oh well, it's not what I came here for.
Natsu's diary: ...Well, joining the guild was a simple task, as they have no admission tests or something, which explains the overall quality of their members… A short talk with the guild master and mentioning Gildarts' name appeared to be enough. Of course, master noticed strange energy, emanated by my arm, so I had to explain my situation to him, I told him a short version though. Master Mak… damn names… he didn't inquire for any specific details, so there are no issues. His magic power is impressive, for this place at least. Would he born in outside world, he'd got a chance to become an elder in one of those super guilds, but here… Anyway, I think he deserves my respect, so now there are at least two mages in the guild who have earned my esteem…
On a side note, it seems I'm in luck. Though right now I'm far too weak to use Okā-sama's techniques, I think I found something that I can use as a temporal substitution, as well as a preparation phase. The scarlet haired girl – Erza (somehow, I managed to memorize her name pretty quickly) – appeared to be a Ken no Mahō [Sword Magic] user. I've seen her training yesterday, and she seems to be pretty good with her sword spells, which is quite explainable, considering that she's a so well-balanced quicksilver… Regardless, I'm quite certain that I'll be able to deconstruct her magic and adapt her spells for my own sword technique. I just need to take a closer look…
(Time skip)
Natsu's diary: ...Two months have passed since I joined Fairy Tail. What can I say about my new "colleagues" after prolonged observation? Well, most of them are noisy, stupid and weak. Excluding master Makarov (at last I've managed to memorize his name) and Gildarts (who visited the guild about three weeks ago, but left for another journey, just a few days after), only four people here are able to provide some challenge to my strength…
However – and this is the weirdest thing – I've managed to find a friend inside the guild. Her kindness and friendliness seem attractive, even for me. Strange, she is a mere human being and a rather middling mage (summoner-type shape-shifter with the light/wind attribute, what an imbecile chose that magic type for her?) We have almost nothing in common… yet her presence somehow makes me feel myself… less lonely? I can't say that I like this development… Since when does loneliness began to bother me? I was just fine with Sin, and sooner or later I should be able to summon my bodyguards, so I have no practical need for friends here, yet… This guild has a strange influence on my consciousness... I should be more careful, I cannot rely on locals.
July 23, Year X781, about noon, Fairy Tail Guildhall.
"Natsu, did you hear?! Today master is going to announce the candidates for the S-class trial!" The blue eyed girl with short, white hair said excitedly as she ran to him and sat down beside the god slayer, "I'm sure you will be one of them!"
"Morning, Lisanna," Natsu nodded slightly. "Yes, I know – I had a talk with the master about it yesterday. But, no, I won't be one of them."
Lisanna's eyes widened, "But why?! Surely you have more than enough power to become an S-class mage!" She exclaimed.
"Indeed I do, but I don't have enough desire to become an S-class mage, I've declined the invitation, so to say," Natsu replied simply. "Yesterday master asked me how I feel about becoming a senior mage and I've honestly admitted that I don't think it's worth my time. I have calculated everything – effective income from S-class missions is lower than from common missions. Also, S-class mages should perform some guild duties, and I do not want to bother with it," Natsu explained. Moreover, he knew that S-class missions could be used as a merit for guild's prestige, and failure would be quite shameful. In other word – additional responsibility with almost no profit…
"But Natsu…" Lisanna tried to argue but Natsu cut her off.
"Relax, Lisanna, it's just a worthless title," Natsu waved her off. "Take Gildarts, for example. He traveled more than a year to complete his SS-class mission, and earned how much? About thirteen million jewels? About one million per month – It's just not serious… During those two months that I'm here I've earned more than seven millions. So, money is out of the question. What else do I get with S-rang? Oh yeah, access to second floor…" Natsu pointed upward. "But almost no one else can go there, which would leave me in company of that moron Laxus, boring red-haired girl… Oh, yes, and this one…" Natsu sighed.
"Lisanna! How many times do I have to tell you that you should stay away from this psycho?!" Mirajane exclaimed angrily as she came closer to Natsu's table.
"Why are you so wound up?" Natsu asked indifferently. "Are you afraid that your sister's breasts might become bigger than yours when she'll grow up?" Both girl's faces went bright red, Lisanna's from embarrassment and Mirajane's from rage as Natsu retained his indifferent face expression.
"Natsu!" Another girl's voice called out for him. "What is the meaning of this?! Master just told me that you do not want to participate in the S-class exam!" Erza walked up to him and slammed her fists on the table.
"It means that I am not interested in getting the S-class rank," Natsu answered passionlessly.
"Why?!" Erza demanded an answer.
"Do I really need to explain that to everyone?" Natsu sighed. "It's just a formal title, nothing more. S-class is an internal guild title, for those who're not belong to the guild it's meaningless. I'm well aware of my strength, I don't need to prove myself to anyone. A simple title won't make anyone stronger, and, by the way, it won't make anyone more famous either. You're both S-class, yet I've never seen you before. I've joined the guild just two months ago, yet my photo already appeared in Sorcerers Weekly twice."
Mirajane twitched as if she got a slap in the face when Natsu said 'never seen you before'. She seemed discouraged, but Erza wasn't ready to give up yet. "Magazine have nothing to do with that! It's a great honor to become an S-class mage! You can't decline the exam!" Erza exclaimed indignantly.
"You can take my place then. Go forth, pass the exam one more time, maybe then master will make you an SS-class mage," Natsu stood up and looked right into her eyes. "I'm not the one who you're trying to convince about that useless exam, right? You know as well as I am that S-rank will not make you feel better…" The god slayer stated and headed to the guild's door, leaving Erza and the Stratus sisters behind, speechless and confused.
Natsu's diary: As expected, that strange guy, named Mysto…someone, passed the S-class exam. He's weird… He always casts the sleep spell over the entire guild when he comes to the guildhall, so no one can see him. Seriously, does anyone want to see his face? Too bad for him I was able to deconstruct his magic. I can't reproduce his sleep spell, but I found a way to completely neutralize it. Most ironic of all is that I am the one least interested in his face… The really interesting thing about him is that he has no magic attribute. Nothing at all. Really, the chair on which I'm sitting right now has more magic in itself than that guy… I've never heard about something like this. Honestly, I'd like to learn more, but I doubt he'll allow me to take a good look… besides, the idea of examining another male seems… well, quite disgusting, to put it mildly.
End of Flashback
July 13, Year X784, 2:20, Natsu Bloodfallen's house's backyard.
"So, how was it?" Erza asked. She just performed a series of Flame Dragon Slayer's spells while her beloved god slayer mindfully watched over her performance. Now she was sitting on Natsu's lap as he was calculating something inside his mind. To be honest, Erza could not understand what exactly Natsu was trying to learn from her techniques.
"Um? Ah, it's good…" Natsu answered indistinctly, trying to hide his concern.
"Natsu," Erza said with a raised eyebrow, "What is going on?"
"No, nothing… it's just… ah well, forget about it…" He tried to act calm, but he actually was concerned.
Erza smiled. She knew that the last thing he wanted right now is to make her worry about something else right after she had a nightmare about the Tower of Heaven. "Natsu, please. If it somehow related to my magic I must know about it," She asked softly but seriously as she looked into his eyes.
Natsu sighed, he just could not hide anything from her, not when those bottomless eyes were so close, shining under the moonlight. In addition, he could not deny the logic of her request. "Alright… I just have a strange feeling about your magic… During our fight with Zeref's beast I noticed that your flame spells made you exhausted… Well, much more than they should. And now, when you performed the series of spells – you again spent much more magical energy than you had to…" Natsu explained.
"Well, I'm just a starter, you know. You should not expect me to perform all spells perfectly just three months after learning the magic," Erza reasoned. Natsu smiled as he heard her words. "Why are you smiling?" She wondered, smiling back.
"Well, you just admitted that you are still a novice wizard. Who could imagine that I'd be the only person you would show your soft side to?" Natsu asked as he gently kissed her earlap. It was her sensitive spot so his gentle touches elicited a pleasurable moan.
"Umm… Yes… From the beginning our relationship quickly became… strained, to say the least… Do you remember? Ahh…" She gasped when Natsu softly bit her neck. "You were not the sweetest person in the world back then… Umm…" She was melting from his gentle touches.
"I do," Natsu replied and his expression become a bit strange, "As well as I remember about that incident. That was some kind of a turning point, after which a lot of things between us have changed …" He pronounced as Erza embraced him tightly.
Flashback
Natsu's diary: ...How annoying a girl can be? Yesterday, Erza noticed me watching her training and she just can't leave me alone since then, despite that I've already invented at least a dozen of good excuses… I think I have to buy a telescope if I'm going to continue to watch over her training sessions so I could steal more of her spells…
By the way, it seems that I actually can tolerate Mirajane's presence for more than five minutes. Also, she has become less annoying. I'm pretty sure she is acting less aggressive toward me mostly for Lisanna's sake, and vice versa, but it is working somehow.
Anyway, it seems I'm going to stick with this guild for a while, so yesterday I bought a plot of land outside the city. I'm going to build my new house there. Today I'm going to meet with the contractor.
October 10, Year X781, about 11 o'clock, Fairy Tail Guildhall.
"I'm really glad to see that you and Mira-nee began to get along better with each other," Lisanna said happily.
"Yeah, she really has become less frustrating, however, as if to compensate that, Erza became much more annoying…" Natsu sighed heavily, causing his fourteen years old friend to giggle. "What's so funny?" He wondered.
"Natsu, your mind is so weird, you know? You are brilliant, yet you are unable to see the obvious things… Mira-nee is Erza's old rival. And now, when your relationships with onee-chan became less strained, Erza began to think that Mira-nee is trying to become your girlfriend…" Natsu chocked a little. "It's not true… I think… But you know Erza, she is very impressionable," Lisanna explained with smile. "So now she is a bit angry at you because she's thinking that you took the side of her rival."
Natsu stood with a face-palm gesture for about two minutes before speaking. "Idiocy. Where from those people are getting so much of free time to think about so weird things? Can't they just go and try to improve their magic if they have nothing better to do?"
"Oh Natsu… You are incorrigible…" Lisanna rolled her eyes, "There's nothing good in being obsessed with magic, you know?"
Natsu completely ignored that remark of hers.
Natsu's diary: ...It seems that I really can get along with Lisanna's sister, too. Surprisingly, she seems to have become more mature. She's a talented mage as well. She has a darkness attribute, best for both summoners and shape-shifters, and if she'll continue focusing on demonic shape-shifts – she's going to get decent results.
…I'm getting tired from Erza's attitude, it looks like the fact that I'm not afraid of her drives her nuts. How many hang-ups can one girl have?
November 14, Year X781, 18:00, Magnolia's park.
"Hey Natsu!" Lisanna's voice called out for the god slayer who sat at one of the park benches.
"What's up?" He asked, waving his hand as the youngest of the Stratus siblings came closer to him.
"What are you doing here?" Lisanna asked.
"I'm waiting for the contractor, my house is almost finished and he is going to show me the progress," Natsu said. It was a lie, though. In fact, Natsu was intending to spy on Erza once again. She recently bought a new sword – Benisakura [Crimson Cherry] – and now she was close to mastering a new spell – Yōtō [Demon Blade], and Natsu wanted to be there so he could copy it for himself.
"Hey, Lisanna! We got a job to do!" Elfman's voice called out as he and Mirajane appeared from the park's alley.
"But didn't we just come back?" Lisanna asked in surprise.
"It's an S-class, too! We'll back up nee-san," Elfman explained with an enthusiastic smile.
"What kind of job is it?" Natsu wondered, mostly to keep the ball rolling.
"Emergency Suppression. We're heading toward the king of monsters, "The Beast" Mirajane answered. "Natsu, you wanna come with us? It might be an interesting experience," The she-devil said with a wink.
"I'd like to accompany you people, but I'm too busy right now, sorry, Jane," Natsu replied. "Besides, he does not want me to be with you," Natsu pointed at Elfman.
"He's right, I'm against that. A man should protect his family on his own," The white-haired lad confirmed.
"But Natsu…" Lisanna tried to convince him but the god slayer interrupted her.
"Lisanna, you are the family, go, I don't want to be a fifth wheel. You'll be fine. When you get back, I'll show you my new house," Natsu waved his arm towards construction site. 'This mission is just a waste of time. This "Beast" has nothing to offer apart from his worthless hide… Splitting the reward with three other people… It's just not worth my time,' God slayer decided.
"Okay, see you soon, Natsu," Lisanna waved her goodbye.
"All right…" Mirajane said, she seemed disappointed a little.
"Take care," The god slayer replied.
Natsu's diary: …I have to admit, Jane's becoming quite a chick. Interesting, will it look too bad if I use my friendship with Lisanna to get a closer relationship with Mirajane? Ah, who cares how it would look. She is almost seventeen and I wouldn't mind having her as my girlfriend… not that I really need one, but it can be a nice boost for my reputation.
Natsu's diary: …My house has finally been completed. I'm pretty satisfied (unlike Sin) with the result. Tomorrow Lisanna should be back from her mission and I'm going to show her my new house. I think I can use some of her advices about furniture.
Natsu's diary: …This morning Mirajane came to my new house… She was in deep shock and completely broken… Her eyes were blank, as well as her soul. It seems that she was barely conscious of where she is and what she's doing. She informed me that yesterday her mission went terribly wrong. Elfman was severely wounded, he's still in the hospital, in town where their mission took place, I can't remember the name. Also, she told me that Lisanna died on the mission.
The more the weirder. It seems that I'm the first person who was informed about the incident… I can't get it, why? There is a whole guild, full of people who cared about her much more than I ever did, yet she came to me… I had no choice but to help her to get back to the guild by myself, otherwise, if left alone, she could go astray in the town in her current condition…
Natsu's diary: …It is weird, but… for the first time in my life I'm actually not sure about what I actually should be doing now… I know for sure – all that happened had nothing to do with me… then why I feel like it was my fault? Damn, Lisanna… She was a mere human… I'm higher than this… Higher than these pathetic human's emotions like "regret" and "grief"… I should not feel anything, but… why then my hand is shaking?
I can't stop thinking – I came to this region for a very important reason. I'm definitely not obliged to babysit every incompetent wizard from the guild, but… could I do something else? Could I tell her that she's using incompatible magic? Could I try to convince her to switch for fitting magic type? Or I just had to try to convince her to simply quit being a mage? It is against my convictions, but Lisanna's carefree character doesn't fit the merciless world of magic… damn, I guess I should stop writing about her in present tense…
November 17, Year X781, 11:07, Kardia Cathedral's graveyard.
Elfman was released from the hospital yesterday, so he was able to participate in the burial ceremony. Lisanna's body was never found, so an empty coffin was put into the grave. Natsu decided to not to go to the ceremony itself, he was not interested in watching an empty wooden box and dozens of mournful people.
A lonely figure stood near the tomb under hard rain. Despite his protests, Elfman was forced to go to the guild's sickbay and take some rest, but Mirajane just could not leave the grave of her sister, not yet. She turned around as she heard heavy squelching footsteps behind her, only to see Natsu approaching.
She stared at him with a blank expression; she still was in deep shock. "Sorry I did not come to the ceremony… but I would've been one too many there…" Natsu said, looking at the tombstone. Suddenly, Gladius Terminus glinted in Natsu's hand as he plunged his sword into the ground right in front of Lisanna's grave and fell on his knees.
"Eh?" Mira gulped as Natsu looked into Mira's eyes before speaking.
"Mia clementia denar esto… Mia elevatum est crudelis," He said, of course Mira did not understand a word of it. [A/N: Not Latin]
"This is a language of gods, it means 'I beg you for forgiveness… I was proud and heartless…' well, something like that…" Sin explained as he landed on the ground near Natsu.
"Forgive you… for what?" Mira asked blankly.
"For that I could help, but missed that opportunity," Natsu replied with sigh.
"Oh Natsu! I… I was… It's not… not your… It was my entire fault!" Mira cried as she too fell on her knees and buried her face into Natsu's chest and started to sob. Natsu wrapped his right hand around Mira's head and pressed her to himself. Mirajane did not understand what Natsu meant and for what he's apologizing, but somehow his presence finally allowed her to sob out her grief and pain.
They stood like this for about half an hour, until the poor girl was able to get a hold on herself at least a little. Her coat was dripping wet long ago and the November's wind was making her shiver from cold. At last, Natsu stood up, helping Mirajane to stand up too. "C'mon, we should leave. The last thing she needs now is our mournful faces. Let's leave her in peace," He stated, turning around. Mirajane obediently followed him. She did not care where exactly he leads her.
Natsu's diary: …I brought Mirajane to the hotel room where I used to live until my new house was finished, since I still have to buy a furniture for my home. She fell asleep almost instantly, it seems she didn't sleep for almost four days…
…I can barely feel Jane's magical power. She told me that she lost her powers, but I know that this is not possible to just lose magical power, at least her Mahōsui [Magic Sleep], Mahōhenkō [Magic Change] and her meridians are still intact. Perhaps the problem is with her Mahōton [Magic Release]? As far as I understand, her own mind simply doesn't allow her to use magic, because she thinks that her powers were the reason for Lisanna's death in the first place. If I'm right, then getting her magic back is possible, but it will be an extremely challenging task, especially because she does not want her powers back.
…Maybe it's not the best time to think about it, but this incident made me to learn something strange about myself… Mirajane is here, in my room. She is obviously beautiful as well as extremely vulnerable right now… I'm sure I could kiss her several times and she wouldn't resist. She could've become mine… But… I did not kiss her. And not because my beliefs or something did not let me to do it… I just didn't want to kiss her. That is really frustrating… What the hell is wrong with me? One of the most beautiful girls I've ever seen is here, at my complete disposal, and I do not want to at least kiss her?
Year 781, November 18th, 9:15, Fairy Tail guildhall.
The entire guild was silent as most of the guildmembers were still mourning Lisanna's death. She was so kind, cheerful and still so young. Her death was a terrible blow to everyone, but the weirdest thing – to Natsu's great surprise and confusion – all of the guild members paid their respects to him too, because he lost his best, and, most likely, the only real friend in the guild.
Natsu's diary: …I can't get it. I always treated these people like a trash and I definitely did not deserve their kindness… Yet they all tried to cheer me up… not that I really need it, but still… Probably, one day I'll be able to return a favor…
Next time, when someone from the guild get in trouble and I won't be having any emergent task, I shall help…
"Poor Mirajane…" Warren mumbled. "I can't even imagine how hard it could be for her…"
"Yeah," Max nodded, "I think she's blaming herself too hard… It was not her fault…"
Natsu raised his head. "Max, please, quit being a fool…" The god slayer said with deep sigh, as if he grew very tired from saying obvious things.
"Hey, what are you saying?!" Sand wizard exclaimed resentfully.
"I'm saying that you should open your eyes, all of you should – it was her fault," Natsu replied with his signature emotionless voice, and of course, he instantly became the center of attention. "She is an S-class mage, she was in charge of this mission and she was not strong enough to defeat the enemy. Lie will not change anything and will not help anyone. She failed this mission, so she had to be one dying there, not Lisanna… and those aren't my thoughts, by the way, but hers. Remember this next time you'll try to cheer her up," God slayer said.
Of course, his words sounded like a peal of thunder, so entire guild was rendered silent as all the members now were staring at him. "Denying the truth won't do any good to anyone, especially to Mirajane and Elfman…" Natsu continued his speech as he stood up, "But Lisanna's death shall not be in vain. We all have to learn this lesson and do everything we can to not let this story repeat itself. This is what happens when you lack power, and luck, on the other hand, may be quite an unreliable asset…" He finished his monologue and headed towards the stairs to the second floor.
"Hey! Hold it right there! You can't go to the second floor!" Erza exclaimed as she dashed toward Natsu to stop him, because he just ignored her words. She did not notice that crimson energy already engulfed Natsu's right hand and blue flame engulfed his left. When she got close, Natsu turned abruptly and slammed both of his fists into her armored chest with full force. Taken by complete surprise, Erza was smashed into the opposite wall as she made a hole in it, flying out of the guild building. She was knocked unconscious. The whole guild gasped as they saw that scene, as Natsu continued to walk up to the second floor.
"And you definitely did not learn anything…" God slayer said darkly as he climbed to the second floor and stopped in front of the S-class request board. He noticed one of the requests and came closer to examine it. 'Vanquish the mysterious cult'. "Yes, this will do just fine," He said to himself. Natsu did not take the request, he just memorized the directions to the "cult" lair's possible location. "Sin, c'mon, we're leaving," Natsu called for his familiar as he walked down the stairs.
"Natsu, wait! You can't take the S-class mission without permission!" Gray tried to remind him about guild rules.
"I'm not taking anything," Natsu replied, showing his empty hands. "I'm just going for a walk. And if, during that walk, I'll accidentally stumble across something suspicious and find a gang of criminals… well, as a mage of legal guild, I'll have to take measures, right? And if, because of that, I'll get something that will help me increase my powers… well, that will be just a lucky coincidence, am I right?" The god slayer laughed joylessly as he already stepped over the doorframe. "Oh, and when she return, tell her I'm sorry…" He added, then vanished from sight.
"Damned insane psychopath!" Wakaba exclaimed as soon as Natsu disappeared.
"Where is he?!" A furious Erza demanded the answer as she appeared in the door frame. Her armor was shattered and she stood holding to her chest. It seemed that Natsu broke one or two of her ribs.
"What's going on here?" Makarov appeared on the second floor. He slept in his office but commotion in the main hall woke him up.
"Master! It's Natsu – he went to the S-class mission!" Gray informed the master.
"What?!" Makarov's eyes widened as he quickly looked at the S-class board. "What are you saying? All of the requests are at their places."
"Well, he did not take the request, but this maniac went to the mission's place, I think he wants to rob someone…" The ice-mage clarified his previous statement.
"Master, we have to bring him back!" Erza exclaimed angrily.
"No," Makarov replied simply. "Taking an S-class mission without permission or without an S-class mage in team is prohibited, but since no requests were taken – no rules were broken."
"But master…" Erza tried to argue but master cut her off mid-sentence.
"Let him be Erza," Makarov said before examining the girl closer. "Is this his doing?"
"Yes…" The scarlet haired girl answered grudgingly.
"Go see the doctor. He still broke one rule when wandered to the second floor. As a punishment, I'll make him to compensate the expenses for your treatment and repairs of your armor when he'll get back," Master proclaimed before returning to his office, leaving Erza and the other guild members at a loss. But even though Natsu joined Fairy Tail just recently, Makarov already knew that, among all of the Fairy Tail members, Natsu is the one most cautious.
November 19, Year X781, 3:40, somewhere in Fiore, not too far from town of Onibas.
A cave network, lightened by torches, was filled by wounded, frostbitten and dead bodies. Some of them were deprived of several limbs – Natsu's interrogation methods were not too civil. "I can't believe that… just one man… destroyed our… entire operation…" One of the survived cultists croaked.
Natsu was not interested in the cult's intentions or ideas or anything, he only wanted their knowledge and their belongings. Right now, he and Sin were inside of a so called "sacred chamber". Natsu was worn out after pretty violent battle, but quite satisfied with himself. He and Sin were searching for any magical items or books that Natsu could use to learn some new techniques. Of course, his god slayer's magic could be improved only by intensive training, but he thought that illegal cult might own some Kuroi Geijutsu [Black Arts] secrets (he had nothing to lose anyway – he was already a black arts user).
"Hey Sin, take a look at this!" Natsu called for his familiar. He just smashed some sort of an altar and found a secret treasure underneath it. "If this is what I think it is – we're extremely lucky…"
Natsu's diary: …After searching out the hidden 'temple', I found two extremely valuable items. If I'm correct, this is the dragon lacrima – the crystal that contains a part of an ancient dragon's soul, which could be used to increase a person's magic powers and grant him an access to the Metsuryū Mahō [Dragon Slayer Magic]. Also there is an ancient grimoire which contains the inheritance of an Enryū [Flame Dragon], which could be used to learn En no Metsuryū Mahō [Flame Dragon Slayer Magic], even without lacrima. Together they could be used to create a Dragon Slayer!
Natsu's diary: …Alright, it seems I got two problems. First one – I can't use the dragon lacrima. After doing some research it appeared that there are quite a limited number of ways to use this lacrima, and among them there are no practical methods to empower myself. This lacrima can be used to turn humans into dragon slayers or to increase the power of an existing dragon slayer. Since I'm not a human and not a dragon slayer – the only use I have for that lacrima is to drain its essence and slightly increase my manapool – and only temporary – using a dragon lacrima just for that would be a total waste of a very valuable item…
The book, on the other hand, was partially useful. I found two spells that I certainly can adapt for my own Metsujin Mahō [God Slayer Magic]. I'll keep the items for a while, maybe I'll find some use for them later.
…the second problem is Erza. She's still extremely angry at me and now she's acting as if I do not exist at all. However, sometimes I have a feeling that she is spying on me… Damn girl, I'm becoming paranoid because of her.
…moreover, I think Mirajane too feels slightly offended by me… well, because I did not try to comfort her with a kiss… and it seems that she actually was expecting even more than just a kiss… Looks like her feelings are very messy right now… I said that my honor did not let me kiss such a vulnerable girl… I did not find the courage in myself to say that I just did not want to do that…
End of Flashback
July 13, Year X784, 3:10, Natsu Bloodfallen's house's backyard.
Natsu was sitting on a bench, once again examining the grimoire that Erza was using to learn her dragon slayer spells. She was sitting near him with her hands wrapped around Natsu's right arm and her head resting on his shoulder. Natsu was so consumed by his research that he did not even notice that her head became heavy and breathing became steady. She fell asleep.
"Damn, I can't get it. I'm pretty sure we have done everything right… yet your spells consume your magic ineffectively… And you chocked when you consumed fire… Dragon slayers should not choke consuming their element…" Natsu muttering to himself. "With your 'quicksilver' attribute, that has fire as its component, your compatibility with this magic is excellent…" He just couldn't understand what's wrong.
"Can you perform several more spells, Erza?... cara mea?" At last Natsu noticed that his beautiful scarlet dragon was sleeping. He smiled. She looked so cute and peaceful as she was smiling in her dream; now she sees anything but nightmare, that's for sure. Careful to not wake her up, Natsu picked her up bride-style, brought back to their bedroom, and placed her in their bed.
"Damn armor, how should I remove it without waking you up, amica mea?" Natsu asked quietly. To better perform her spells, Erza equipped her Flame Empress Armor. But then he smiled before speaking, "It reminds me… how hard it was to remove your armor for the first time… Do you remember, Erza?"
Flashback
Natsu's diary: …I've a talk with the master, told him that I have revised my position about S-class mage rank. He told me that he was expecting it. The next exam will be in eight months. That suits me just fine – rush is the last thing I need right now…
Jane became the guild's waitress since she can't earn money as a mage anymore. To be honest, I can't imagine anything more humiliating, but it seems she's actually enjoying the peacefulness of the guild hall. Will it last, I wonder?
I refuse to leave it like that. She surely is a talented mage, I won't let her waste her life. There are Kuroi Geijutsu that allows to manipulate with people's consciousness. There's much to learn for me yet, but I'll become better. I'll bring back Jane's magic, even if that means I'll have to brainwash her…
(Time skip)
Natsu's diary: …Jane has changed drastically. If I did not know for sure, I would never believe that she once was called a she-devil. She's become a nice, gentle and very caring girl. Erza, on the other hand, did not changed at all, and I'm already sick-n-tired of her…
…yesterday I passed the S-class exam. It was not too difficult, to be honest, even easier than I expected – nothing to compare with the trials I had to complete when I was learning from Okā-sama… Nevertheless, now I have the official right to watch over guild members and keep them in check. Will I be able to find a jewel among these cinders… time will show.
(Time skip)
September 22, Year X783, 16:35, Fairy Hills dormitory.
Several girls were taking onsen-like bath, sharing their thoughts and latest gossips. Right now girls were discussing potential pairs among guild members. Word after word, Erza's name came up onto agenda, as she wasn't among those girls right now.
"Erza… honestly, I can't imagine any potential boyfriend for her…" Bisca shook her head. "She probably needs someone who enjoy rules as much as she does, but none of our guys match…"
"I don't think so, Bisca," Levy replied. "Books usually says that girls are looking for that they're lacking within themselves…"
"What, you think that Erza actually might be looking for a 'bad boy'?" Cana chuckled.
"Actually, something like that," Levy replied seriously. "Not 'bad boy' though, more likely she might be looking for a rebel, the one who has the courage to break the rules when needed… an 'antihero' type, maybe…"
"Well, most of our guild's male mages ain't that good with following the rules, but I think Laxus and Natsu are the most explicit examples…" Bisca smiled. "Too bad Erza hates them both…"
Agree…" Cana giggled. "But Laxus… He's rebelling not against guild rules, he's rebelling against us…" She sighed. "And Natsu. He doesn't break the rules, he just ignores them. He's not a rebel, he's an anarchist…"
"Poor Erza…" Levy was honestly worried about her friend being left without boyfriend, Erza was the oldest one among girls...
"Don't worry Levy, she'll figure something out," Cana cheered her up. "Speaking of which, what type of boys do you prefer, Levy?" She asked with cunning smile.
"Um… Eh…" Bookworm stuttered.
(Time skip)
Natsu's diary: …I just hate this girl. I really do. I don't know why but…
…Ah, okay, I have to stop doing this. Deceiving my own diary is the stupidest thing I can do. I have to admit that I've fallen for this red-haired girl…
…She is obviously beautiful, but that was obvious since we met for the first time… No, her beauty isn't the most important thing about her. My ability to distinguish souls of living beings has greatly improved during the last two years, and now… I just can't divert my eyes from her. It is as if she's not even a human – there are simply no words to properly describe the majestic beauty of her soul… and its fragility. It's no wonder that she tries to hide her very tender soul behind the suit of armor… but instead she only locked her pain inside of herself…
…It's apparent that she had a very difficult childhood, yet she found the strength to live and even smile sometimes… She's a bit gawky but it only makes her more charming… Strong and independent – she is exactly what I need, but… from which side I should approach her? During the past two years I've done everything I could to make her unable to stomach me…
…Moreover, for some reason she's been acting especially aggressive toward me during last few months. It might be an issue – despite that I like her, I can't let her, or anyone else, hurt my warrior's pride, I'm the son of the supreme war goddess, after all. Maybe it's childish – but I have to protect my honor.
October 13, Year X783, about 8 o'clock, Fairy Tail guildhall.
Today Erza was especially annoying – the baker, who usually makes her favorite strawberry cakes, got sick, so she was depraved of this dainty luxury for three days now. Every guild member tried to act as quiet and inconspicuous as possible, yet she constantly pestered someone.
"Macao, Wakaba – stop chatting so loud, your mumbling is annoying."
"Cana, get rid of these empty barrels."
"Max, why the hell there is a sand all over the floor?"
Then her eyes locked onto Natsu's. "Don't even think of it – we have nothing to talk about whilst you behaving like this," The god slayer said even before Erza opened her mouth. Her cheeks became slightly pink from growing anger. "Why are you so wound up?" Natsu asked as he stood up and moved toward the request board, asking his familiar to follow him with a gesture. Sin landed on Natsu's shoulder as the Crimson Cardinal began to examine the requests. Natsu decided to keep himself as far away from Erza as possible until the supply of her cakes resumed… but his attempt came too late.
"Naturally, Natsu, you are the limit..." Erza growled angrily.
"What do you want from me?" Natsu asked, turning around as he looked at her with his signature indifferent sight.
"I want you to stop being an asshole," She answered, pointing at Natsu.
"You're blaming me?" Natsu inquired. "Maybe it's time for you to carefully look around yourself? All these people are almost dead to the world just because you can't shut up…" Natsu took a step toward her as Sin relocated himself to the bar counter – he decided to watch from a safe distance.
"Speak for yourself!" She parried. "You constantly walk around with that arrogant expression of yours – 'I'm so cool' 'I have a nice sword' 'I was raised by the goddess' – you think you are better than us, Natsu?"
"You dare imagine what I think? And leave Okā-sama out of this…" Natsu replied, his eyes flashed with crimson light.
"Hah, considering that she's only exists within your sick imagination, leaving her out of everything is just…" She was cut off mid-sentence.
"Senjin no Dogō!" [War God's Howl] Once again Natsu's eyes blazed with crimson light as he released the flow of crimson energy, almost point-blank. Erza was smashed into the guild hall's wall, which crumbled, and the knigh-mage has been thrown out of the building. However, it was not the Erza from two years ago – despite taking a direct hit she was just barely scratched. Natsu followed her through the hole, out the building and tried to land another blow "Senjin no Saiken!" [War God's Crushing Fist]. Erza dodged the attack by performing a back flip. "You were asking someone to teach you some good manners for a long time… If it has to be me – so be it. Let battle rejoice!"
"Tenrin no Yoroi: Za Naito!" [Heaven's wheel armor] Erza shouted, ex-quipping her four-winged armor. "Come on then! It's time to settle this! Toriniti Sōdo!" [Trinity Sword] She swung her sword, slashing Natsu in a triangle formation.
"Shinunoru Tōryūgi: Fukushū Kōsō!" [Vengeful Frost] Natsu swung his own divine blade, making almost the same move as Erza. 'I will know what you're truly capable of… Let's see how you can handle your own spells…' God slayer looked at his opponent with his glowing eyes.
All guild members ran out of the guild to spectate the battle between two S-class mages.
Two spells clashed, effectively neutralizing each other. 'What the? His spell… It was exactly like my own!' Erza thought in surprise, she actually never saw Natsu using the sword magic before.
"Oh, don't be so surprised – there are so many things you do not know about me…" Natsu mocked as he noticed Erza's confusion. "Now come, let me take a good look at what you're made of…"
"Hishō no Yoroi: Za Naito! [Flight armor] Let's see if you'll be able to match my speed!" Erza shouted as a magic seal appeared and she ex-quipped another armor. This one was extremely revealing, this armor featured very few armored parts, it was more like fancy attire bearing reminiscence to a cheetah. "Sonikku Kurou!" [Sonic Claw] She dashed towards Natsu at high speed.
Natsu slightly gulped at this sight – not because he was worried by her speed but because this armor revealed so much of her perfect body. 'Damn, she is magnificent…' Natsu thought, yet he wasn't that easy to distract. "Sentō Chūkaku!" [Combat Core] Natsu shouted as his body was cloaked in an aura of crimson light. Natsu increased his own speed too, not to the point to match Erza's speed but enough to let him avoid or block most of her attacks.
The fight continued in form of hand-to-hand combat for at least 40 minutes, yet no one was able to take the upper hand, but at least ten townhouses, one restaurant and part of Magnolia's marketplace were destroyed or severely damaged.
'She is as stubborn as an entire flock of mules…' Natsu thought as he got a short break from Erza's attack. 'No doubts, that's one of traits that made her the woman I like, but… I've come too far now. It's now or never…' God slayer stood calmly as if he was having everything under control. Information is the first principle of war, and now Natsu had total informational advantage as he was spying on her for two years, studying her almost every spell and technique.
'Damn, that's impossible! It seems like he has a countermove for almost all of my spells! Oh…' Erza thought desperately. She tried several dozens of different moves, yet Natsu was able to counter or block all of them. She managed to land several successful attacks but got several blows in exchange, too. 'All right, it seems I have to use everything I have… Master will be pissed off, but I can't lose to him now!'
"Kureha no Yoroi: Za Naito!" [Black Wing Armor] A scarlet magic seal appeared beneath Erza's feet as she ex-quipped her black-wing armor. She dashed toward Natsu, with her sword ready to strike. "Kureha: Gessen!" [Moon Flash]. She swung her sword, sending a powerful shockwave toward Natsu.
"Shinunoru Tōryūgi: Byōhen Rimyō!" [Morbid Dawn] Once again Natsu used the same attack as the knight-mage, his sword produced a deathfrost shockwave of the same pattern as Erza's. The two spells clashed, producing a very concentrated magic vortex, which quickly collapsed and created a powerful blast. At least three more buildings were damaged, as townsfolk ran away in panic.
"It's useless, Erza – just give it up. There's no way you can defeat me, not in the state you are now…" Natsu said with his signature emotionless voice.
"Fuck you!" Erza shouted angrily. She was confused and enraged because Natsu not only somehow managed to use the same spells as she did, but he also took a defensive position, provoking her to attack and she could not understand – why?
"Such inappropriate words for a young lady… Mind what you're saying, or I'll wash your mouth out with soap…" Natsu warned as he dashed forward. "I'm tired of this game Erza, maybe it's time to show me your best armor? Senjin no Bakusō!" [War God's Explosive Spear] Natsu hurled a crimson energy spear toward Erza, making her to jump away. She barely avoided the attack, her magic and physical powers were on wane.
'Okay, I have no choice – he left me with very few options…' She thought before ex-quipping her strongest (to date) armor. "Rengoku no Yoroi: Za Naito!" [Purgatory Armor] Erza ex-quipped the black armor, decorated with many spiked features and a menacing appearance; even her hair spiked outward to match the design of the armor. "Behold! This is the Purgatory Armor – no one has seen this armor and lived to tell of it!" She announced, swinging around a large black mace that also had a spike-like design.
"Which means you're going to use it for the first time?" Natsu asked indifferently before dashing toward Erza as dark blue flame engulfed his sword. "Shinunoru Tōryūgi: Massatsu!" [Obliterate] Natsu shouted before launching his unstoppable attack. Erza ran toward him too, with her mace ready to strike. Gladius Terminus clashed with Erza's mace and shattered it to pieces, leaving Erza weaponless and shocked.
"H… How? You fiend, how much magic do you have?!" The knight-mage exclaimed in frustration. She used her magic relatively frugally, yet she is being almost at her limit, but he – he has not only nullified all of her magical attacks with same-looking spells, but also was hurling his own god slayer spells hit and miss, yet he did not seem as exhausted as she.
Natsu sighed disappointedly as he shook his head. "You still did not understand anything, have you? The point here is not about me, my magic or other arts… It's about your armor. You're a smart girl, why can't you understand that this eggshell of yours is not protecting but binding you? You cannot hide from fear inside the suit of armor… Until the chick breaks the shell he will never fly. I'm going to finish this battle… Can you break that eggshell of yours and fly, Erza?" Natsu asked as he finished his speech and raised his sword to prepare for the final attack.
Erza listened to his speech with mixed expression of confusion, anger and pain. Natsu managed to get under her skin. 'Is he capable of reading thoughts?! How the hell does he know so much about my emotions?! But… He is right, is he not? He has no armor at all, yet I feel myself much more vulnerable than he is…' Erza thought with her eyes closed before a magic light covered her body. As the light faded, Erza appeared in red and yellow textile pants with bandages around her chest and only one sword equipped – Benisakura. "You were right, I was afraid…" She said simply. "But I am afraid no longer. And now I'm going to discards all of my defenses for this last attack to defeat you!" She shouted, charging toward Natsu.
Natsu was ready, he raised Gladius Terminus to meet her attack.
"Yōtō Benisakura!" [Demon Blade Crimson Sakura]
"Shinunoru Tōryūgi: Mōi no Sōtai!" [Fury of the Frost Emperor]
Their swords clashed, as Natsu and Erza both tried to overpower each other. Natsu breathed heavily, this time, the strength of Erza's attack was quite decent. "Not bad, now I can feel your real power, but… there is one more lesson you should learn before you'll have a chance to defeat me…" Natsu said emotionlessly, though there was a shade of irony in his voice as cracks started to web across Erza's blade. "You should stop buying these cheap swords…" As he finished his phrase Erza's sword crumbled to pieces and she fell to her knees, defeated. Natsu opened his mouth to say something but, suddenly, a broad light beam smashed both of them into the nearest rock.
"ENOUGH!" Makarov's angry voice shook the whole street and made all spectators to run away in panic.
Natsu's diary: ...master got us. He dragged us back to his office, where both of us were scolded for two hours straight. Worst part of it – we actually are guilty… Two S-class mages, fighting against one another with magic… not to mention a lot of damaged property… There's no place for excuses… Damn, this is the downside of an S-class rank I was worried about…
Poor Erza, it seems she took it closer to the heart than I did… I think I understand her feelings. She always tried to be a model mage and now… I admitted that it was I who started the fight but it made little difference, we both received a penalty. First of all – we have to compensate the damage we've done to the town, from our own funds. Moreover, from now on, if I try to use any spell against Erza I'll have to pay 200,000 jewels to the guild's purse. And if Erza will try to use any spell against me, she'll has to take a topless photo for the magazine…
…Oh Erza… What shall I do with you… Ah, screw it. I'm going to tell her about my feelings now. Come what may… Maybe she'll laugh at me… but… I do not know why, but... I have a good feeling about it… In the end, fate is one of my mother's domains…
October 13, Year 783, 15:25, Magnolia.
Natsu found Erza near the channel, at the same spot that she used to hide from the others when she had just joined the guild (Natsu learned about that from Gray). First, he made some preparations, and afterwards he approached the lonely girl.
"What do you want?" She asked passionlessly as she felt his presence. "You still want to punish me for what I said about your mother?"
"No," Natsu replied, and Erza heard some sort of compassion in his voice. "You've already been punished more than enough… My monetary penalty is unfortunate but tolerable, but yours…" Natsu added as he came closer, "No, right now I just want to ask you about something."
"Go ahead…" She said, turning to Natsu, her left eye was red from tears, but the right one was normal. That was pretty odd but Natsu decided to postpone unimportant questions for a later time.
"Since Lisanna's death, I've tried to change, to become a better man. I really think that I succeeded – I won't say that those people from the guild became my friends, but I managed to establish normal relationships. But you… For some reason you were acting more and more aggressive toward me, day after day. I just want to know – why? The only bad thing I've ever done to you was when I broke your armor, and that was two years ago. I don't believe that you're holding the grudge since then. What's going on, Erza?"
Erza smiled sadly. "You really do not understand? You, the brilliant minded and so perceptive, almighty Natsu Bloodfallen, can't understand such a simple thing?" She sighed deeply. "I'm acting like this because I like you…" She said honestly, looking right into Natsu's eyes. "When I watch you sitting near the counter, when you and Mirajane are happily chatting with each other… I just can't bear it…" She turned away from him. "Go on, laugh. I have nothing more to say to you…"
"Me and Mirajane…" Natsu sighed deeply, he was the master of hiding his emotions. "You know, after Lisanna died I was the first person she came to. Even more, I even let her sleep in my bed…" Erza shivered a little when she heard that. "But nothing happened, we never even kissed. Yes, we became very good friends, but that's all." Natsu couldn't see it but the small ray of hope flashed inside Erza's eyes. "Come here, please, I'll show you the reason for that…" Natsu asked her to follow him to the little mound.
Erza had nothing to lose, so she just followed him. Then they both climbed up to the mound Natsu pointed to the flower field below. Erza looked that way and her eyes widened. Part of the field was frozen, and the frozen flowers were formed into words: "I LIKE YOU, ERZA SCARLET" Obviously – Natsu prepared it beforehand.
Erza tried to say something but a huge number of contradictory thoughts were swarming inside her head right now. For her it was absolutely unexpected. Suddenly, Natsu took her hand and started to pull her somewhere. "Come on, let's go," He said.
"W-wait! Let's go? W-where to?!" She stuttered.
"I'm inviting you on a date," He replied simply. Since she already confessed her own feelings, Natsu decided to take the initiative.
Actually, it was nothing special – just a simple walk, but they both enjoyed it. They chatted about some guild events and their habits – nothing serious, as it should be at the first date.
"Okay, it's already late, see you tomorrow," Erza said smiling, she obviously was happy. May be not too much – she knew too little about this man to make any plans… but now she had hope (though, aster this date, she'll involuntarily make a huge number of plans). She already turned around and started to walk away but Natsu called out for her.
"Erza, one more thing before you go…" He said as he started to unzip the glove on his left arm. Two seconds later Natsu removed it, revealing the fleshless bones, covered with dark blue flame.
Erza gasped in shock at the sight of it. "Wh…what is this?!" She made several steps toward Natsu to take a better look at his arm.
'She's shocked but not scared, a good sign,' Natsu thought. "This is what happens when you're lusting for power too recklessly…" He answered Erza's question. "I'll tell you the story one day. But now I'm showing it to you for different reason. I do not know what exactly happened to you in the past, but it's obvious to me that it is very difficult for you to trust anyone. And I just want you to know that you're not the only one with dark secrets from the past. Believe me, I know how you feel… And my remark about an eggshell… A young girl sacrificed her life to break the eggshell of my arrogance. I do not want someone else's death for breaking your eggshell of fear… Especially your death," He said, putting his glove back and turning around.
"Natsu, wait," She exclaimed, taking several steps toward him. Next second their lips met for their first kiss. It was short, about five seconds long, but it caused a hurricane of emotions for both Natsu and Erza. "Thank you…" She whispered silently.
(Time skip)
Natsu's diary: …after our second date we decided to hide our relationship from the others. Not that I like the idea, but Erza said that she needs some time to better understand what it means to be in relationships. If she needs it – so be it. Basically, I have to act as before, showing no emotions about anything she's doing. Shouldn't be too difficult, though, hiding relationships from my own familiar will be a challenge…
…Erza feels very awkward about the whole thing, it will be a hard task to gain her complete trust, but I'm patient and she is definitely worth it…
…What really bothers me is how she'll be able to hide her feelings from others. She's an honest girl, lie is against her nature… Probably we should try to avoid being inside the guild hall together for too long and too often…
(Time skip)
"Don't you think we are moving too fast?" Erza asked, trying to catch her breath after a kiss that lasted for almost two minutes, "Kisses with tongue at the third date…"
"I think we're going just fine," Natsu smiled, wrapping his hands around her waist.
"Then what we will do at our fifth date?" Erza wondered.
"I can give you an idea," Natsu winked to her. "Try to imagine it: in the hotel room, lighted by three candles, you lie on the bed, in your underwear. Your eyes covered with a soft silk scarf… The blade's edge sliding across your body, hurting you a bit and leaving a slight red trace on your skin. You try to move your hand, but you can't move, because your hands are tied to the bed… The blade's edge touches your bra and slices its straps… …Erza, are you okay? You're drooling…" Natsu asked as Erza's face became red and sight became unfocused, she was breathing heavily; this girl has an overactive imagination…
(Time skip)
Natsu's diary: …Damn, I don't know what is going on with me, but I can't wait to get in bed with her. She's really magnificent… Her body is so hot, it practically makes me burning with anticipation. She's quite a shy girl in her regular life, but I'm sure she'll be a tornado in bed as soon as I turn her from a girl into a woman…
(Time skip)
Natsu's diary: …today she told me that she loves me. Damn, once again she went ahead of me with her feelings' confession… what a pathetic boyfriend I am…
(Time skip)
Natsu's diary: …after three months of dating, Erza finally opened her heart to me and told me the story of her life. I knew her past was dark, but I couldn't imagine how many hardships she actually met during her short life. In exchange, I told her my own story and about the forbidden arts I unwillingly got. I told a short version though. Not that I do not trust her – that story can turn one's world upside down. I've to make sure that she's mentally prepared to hear every detail, that experience can be… traumatizing…
…I also told her that I'm a magic deconstructor and I spied on her for two years and stole most of her spell to adopt them for my combat style. She chased me for half an hour, probably with intentions to strangle me with her bare hands, but somehow, we ended up in bed, doing what a man and woman should do when they are in the same bed…
…we both had sworn to keep our secrets. Too bad I can't help her right now, but sooner or later he will make his move. Jellal Fernandes, know this, you are sentenced to death.
…yesterday we walked around the town and I noticed her staring into the bridal store. She wistfully looked at the wedding dresses… I think it's time to order a wedding ring, if she again will get ahead of me and propose to me… that would be a real shame on my head, I have to hurry…
(Time skip)
Natsu's diary: …years ago, when we met for the first time, I said that likes of her is one in ten million… I was so wrong. She's one of a kind, there are no others like her, neither in this entire region, nor outside of it.
…today, during our date, two unfamiliar girls approached me and asked for my autograph. Most likely they saw me in the magazine and wanted an autograph of a famous mage… nothing special, that wasn't the first time… But thanks to that encounter I've learned about quite an unexpected part of Erza's personality… When we announce our relationships to the guild, I'd better warn other girls about that...
(Time skip)
She said "yes"!… and again… and again… and again… then asked me to propose to her once more… and she said "yes" again… and again… in total I proposed to her 57 times and got "yes" answer for 487 times. I just adore this woman and how emotional she actually is... Despite placing a "seal of the first apostle" on her two weeks ago, which is actually much more than a wedding – she is happier than ever that we'll have an official wedding ceremony, guests, wedding gifts, etc… She is a normal girl, after all.
…at last I found a good use for the dragon slayer's artifacts. I'll make Erza a dragon slayer! She resisted for some time, but gave up in the end. I want her to become stronger to ensure her safety. I love her…
End of Flashback
July 13, Year X784, 9:00, Natsu Bloodfallen's house.
Erza opened her eyes and yawned sweetly. She just saw a dream, a good one – she was flying on a dragon's back, the dragon that Natsu gave her so she could fulfill her childhood dream of flying in the sky. She looked around and saw Natsu sitting beside her on the bed. She also noticed that the entire bed and at least half of the room's floor was littered with some papers, manuscripts, scrolls, etc… Natsu still held the dragon grimoire.
"Natsu? What is this… You're still up with this book? You… you did not sleep the whole night?" Erza asked, throwing the papers off of her bed.
"It's already morning?" Natsu vacantly looked out the window. "Then yes, I did not sleep the whole night…" He replied, looking back at the book.
Erza sighed deeply. This was one of Natsu's idiosyncrasies that made him the man she loves, but sometimes it was irritating. When he becomes so obsessed with some idea, he won't leave it until he solves the task.
"What are these papers?" Erza asked, she was still in bed, without any clothes, and she was slightly offended because Natsu still did not give her a 'good morning, my love' kiss.
"These are all the documents that I took from those cultists along with the dragon lacrima and this book. I want to know what's wrong with your spells," Natsu answered, still looking into the book.
Erza sighed again as she realized that it is useless to try to talk to him now. She hopped off from the bed and looked around to find her underwear. "Okay, I'll leave it to you then. I'm going to the dormitory – the other girls agreed to help me move my stuff to our house from my dorm room, but it's better for me to be there and watch over them, especially Cana. That drunkard could try to attach the wrong shoulder pads to the wrong chest plate…" Erza chuckled a little as she took her panties and started to put them on.
Suddenly, Natsu slammed the book shut and stood up, making Erza to look at him in surprise. The god slayer jumped toward her, grabbed her by armpits and lifted her up as if she weighs nothing. Erza swung her arms from unexpectedness and accidently threw her panties into the open window. "Erza! You are brilliant!" He announced as his bride looked at him with saucer-wide eyes while her still naked body hung limply in Natsu's arms.
"What a moron I am… We have done everything right, but the very idea was wrong! Now I got it!" Natsu suddenly became excited, it was so rare for him to show so many emotions. He lowered his beloved on the floor and kissed her very passionately. Erza first was taken aback but then responded to his kiss, she opened her mouth and entangled her tongue with his. When he released her lips, Erza was breathless but satisfied.
"Okay, that will count as a morning kiss…" She smiled. "Okay, now I have to get dressed…" But she was cut off mid-sentence as Natsu roughly threw her on the bed and sat over her body, pressing her to the mattress.
"You'll be late a bit…" Natsu said, his voice laced with lust.
"But Natsu, I told the others…" Once again he does not let her finish speaking.
"You're not going anywhere, I want you, now!" He said unbendingly as his grip on her wrists became painful.
"Okay…" Erza realized that resistance is useless as lust started to fill her too. "But… ahh… at least tell me… umm… what you found…" She started to moan from the pleasing pain.
"I found that you performed all off the spell properly, your attribute's compatibility with magic is excellent and your dragon slayer lacrima is perfect…" Natsu glanced at the grimoire "…but this is the wrong book."
Spell List:
Aisu Meiku: Sōdo – Ice Make: Sword
Zetsurei– Absolute Zero
Ken no Mahō – Sword Magic
Metsuryū Mahō – Dragon Slayer Magic
Metsujin Mahō – God Slayer Magic
Senjin no Dogō – War God's Howl
Senjin no Saiken – War God's Crushing Fust
Tenrin no Yoroi: Za Naito – Heaven's wheel armor
Toriniti Sōdo – Trinity Sword
Shinunoru Tōryūgi: Fukushū Kōsō – Death Knight Combat Style: Vengeful Frost
Hishō no Yoroi: Za Naito – Flight armor
Sonikku Kurou – Sonic Claw
Sentō Chūkaku – Combat Core
Kureha no Yoroi: Za Naito – Black Wing Armor
Kureha: Gessen – Moon Flash
Shinunoru Tōryūgi: Byōhen Rimyō – Death Knight Combat Style: Morbid Dawn
Senjin no Bakusō – War God's Explosive Spear
Rengoku no Yoroi: Za Naito – Purgatory Armor
Shinunoru Tōryūgi: Massatsu – Death Knight Combat Style: Obliterate
Yōtō Benisakura – Demon Blade Crimson Sakura
Shinunoru Tōryūgi: Mōi no Sōtai – Death Knight Combat Style: Fury of the Frost Emperor
Well, that's it people. Chapter eight has been completed. I hope it was enjoyable. Do not forget to leave a REVIEW! See you in the next chapter – To the Cursed Island.