Disclaimer: This modest man doesn't own Fairy Tail nor it's characters. Else he wouldn't bother to write this story, honestly life is not fairytail hence the plot and setting of this narrative belong to me solely. Let's get this show on the road then. Historical references that I use in my story are borrowed and do not necessarily correspond with facts we know today.

Indomitable Heart

Chapter 3: The Machinations Of Everyday Life

What was the reason of increasing trips to Conlinia in the last years? The city was mostly in the shadow of the capital Tibrus. But not a half decade and public started showing more and more interest. Maybe it was the newly opened Arena than now held the title of the largest in the Republic, at least until Senate decided on what to do with the one in from the capital (heavy remodeling was needed but the funds were currently lacking a great deal with them being diverted to other, rather pressing matters). Tibrus was getting somewhat crowded and that caused many bureaucratic problems. Not enough houses for the plebeians, the shortage of food and water supply, spreading of infection in the more remote parts of the city, some say even the air became 'congested'. Or one could say that those polemicizing-loving fools were doing their jobs poorly.

In order to lessen the damage as much as possible Conlinia had to share some of the burden. And it did an amazingly good work at it. Plaza was renewed with the market, new settlements were added in a unused free space that the town offered, the new Arena was simply magnificent with it's largest capacity of a sixty (some would say more) thousand. The presence of the traditionally good Ludus was only a plus. Unlike the capital, the Lanistas here definitely knew how to give an outstanding entertainment, provided by their best gladiators of course.

Naturally every major place had it's dark side. The slum district, black market where one could by a merchandise unavailable in the legal place. But the man had to be a good trader, to be skilled in a ways of dicker, keen eye and certainly some good connections to the place. Discretion was like a given here, for the proper amount of coin that is. Yes one could acquire a good deal of anything, from information to slaves at the better prices and other notions of pleasurable services.

''It's still a pisshole. How can they breathe here?'' Were the thoughts of a Quintus Marcus Marcinius as he walked, at the slightly higher pace than usual with his two men, through moon-lighten streets of Conlinia's infamous 'rat nest'. ''If knowledge on who comes to this place came to light, the stir with the public would have been unimaginable.'' As long as no one gets caught or a large amount of credible evidences are presented, there is no place for concern. What the public doesn't know can't harm them. Not that it happened often, quite the opposite. Money does wonders in making people forget.

''Let us pray to Gods that this gives result. And that he was right on the matter.'' A hint of troublesome thoughts came to his mind, but has decided on this action, there is no backing away like a frightened little kitten. The success would guarantee a good future, no a stellar one if all his plans fall into place. But one step at the time for now.

His companions had some thoughts akin to his own, but not with the same path for the future in mind ''This is the sight of Conlinia's nightlife. Being at the Ludus is more inviting.' Are the thoughts of Ganicus, as he walked some steps behind Dominus, Igneous walking beside him no doubt keeping a sharp eye on the surroundings. He certainly had better senses than Ganicus. 'He did experience these parts in the past.' Igneous is one of the fewer fortunate bastards to survive that and came to where he is now. Small part of him wished to see the look on his face, Ganicus was sure that some memories of the bygone time were still fresh even after all these years.

Unaware of Ganicus' cogitations, Igneous kept his eyes trained on every detail that might cause alert. These parts are dangerous and he knows that the best. Not much has changed, he was sure that he could find all the places he knew of from his previous development in here. ''Truly deserving of a name 'The Pantry of Pluto''. He thought as they passed a few of the people, probably some tramps or some vagrants sleeping on the streets. Night wasn't that cold at all. It was still late summer anyway. ''I wonder if that place exists here? Not surprising, but probably located much deeper.'' He mused to himself.

They came to a crossroads, and at the corner a man was waiting. With a few simple waves of gesture, a code of sorts, followed by a short whistle the man came to them. Much like them he wore a dark cloak with red linings showing on the ends.

''Is everything according to design?'' Marcus asked of the man, his tone hushed.

''Everything goes as per the agreed. He shall soon finish, and at the opportune moment the act must take place.'' The man responded in an equally hushed tone. Igneous could swear that he had hear that voice before, so he stayed on guard.

''Good, good. We must make haste, else all the planning end like squashed shit.'' Dominus said and beckoned his two gladiators to follow as their guide lead them some further down the street.

After a few minutes of walk they stopped behind a corner of the street. Marcus and the guide peered around the said corner to see a dimly lit place with it's door opened. A whorehouse. Every city or town has at least one such place, some more conveniently located then the other. ''That is the place?'' He asked of the man next of him.

''Yes, have faith Dominus.'' The man responded.

''Ohh, faith is not of concern here.'' Marcus retorted. A half-lie.

Now Igneous was sure of it. So that man has a hand in all this scheming as well. He really shouldn't be surprised.

''Something of notice.'' Came a whisper from Ganicus.

His comrade knows him well to grasps the situation quickly. ''If assumption proved truth. The night is still young.'' He supplied the answer.

Ganicus gave nod to that. This night will turn to be interesting.

''It is time.'' The man said, and started walking toward the brothel. There came out another person, looking quit the satisfied. A man of average height with light brown hair, blue eyes dressed in a higher standards grab. He was clearly not from around nor a simple plebeian.

The blue eyed man noticed the approaching figure and turned to him. ''As punctual as claimed. Now take me away. Despite the good service, I wish no longer stain eyes and nose with this place.'' He said in a rather disdainful tone.

The man in front nodded. ''Of course, Dominus. If you would follow.'' He started walking with the man going on his right side. ''I trust the services of Conlinia's famous sights were per your tastes.'' He made small talk as he lead him.

''Quite. Not Paestum or even Tibrus could compare.'' He gave response, sounding pleased. ''My brother-in-law's word proved accurate. And your service was the one for praise.'' He lauded.

''But of course. Everything for our noble Aburius Antius' family.'' His guidance said.

Aburius' in-law nodded his head, but turned it to the man and spoke in a serious tone. ''Your discretion is warranted, yes? I need not repeat myself?''

''These lips are sealed with your generosity in coin.'' Was the response. The blue eyed man just turned his head and continued with the walk.

''Is this shortcut? It appears different from last time.'' He had to inquire when the part they were headed seemed unknown to his best guess. No response was given. He turned and said again, face slightly angry. ''Answe-Humph...'' A veil of black fell over his eyes, arms sneaked around his neck and squeezed until he fell into unconsciousness.

Igneous was holding the man in his grip, Ganicus by him and Marcinius contently watched it all happen. ''Well done, Igneous. And you as well. The little shit never suspected anything.'' He commended. Their guide raised his head to show a slight beard, curly short hair and a shrewd greenish eyes.

''Gratitude, Dominus. An honour, being an important part of the plan.'' Answered the other schemer. ''Dolusius is always glad to serve the house of Marcinius.'' He added while glancing at the two gladiators, holding a now fainted target. If only they knew of how hard it was to make this scheme a reality. Ah well, they all contributed in some way.

''Yes, now let us retreat to a place far from the prying eyes and ears. Lead the way, Dolusius.'' Marcus ordered.

''Dominus.'' Dolusius gave affirmative and started leading them to a more secret location.

As they followed, Igneous wondered how was Dolusius that familiar with these parts. He knew that the former gladiator was probably doing lots of underhanded jobs for Marcinius, but one does not know a place like this without some previous experience and knowledge.

''By so far, we are doing rather well.'' Came a quietened comment from Ganicus giving more weight on the word 'rather'. He was also suspicious of Dolusius.

''A matter for another time. Maintain the pace.'' Responded Igneous with an even tone as he walked.

Ganicus only snorted slightly at the instruction. Why did he had to carry the sod's sorry arse? Ah right, he lost the bet in regards of their guide's identity. Stupid prick and his potent awareness of the surrounding.

XxX

Clodius Atius Petronius came about feeling pain all over the body, mostly neck and head. The day was suppose to end well and yet he still saw black and felt that his hands and legs are tied. He was also gagged so he couldn't talk nor scream for help. But that did not stop him from struggling to break free. He moved and grunted while rope scraped painfully of his flesh. Who were these kidnappers? And what would they want from him. Yes, he was a Lanista and had the fair amount than most, but he was not the person of that great notice. Could it be some of his brother-in-law's enemies. His thoughts were interrupted as the torchlight hit his eyes upon the removal of the forced hood.

''Lovely night for walk in the streets of Conlinia, no?'' Said a voice. Petronius saw that he was in a room of sorts, a storage house. It smelled of meat or fish. A market, no a butcher?

He flinched as hands came upon his shoulders ''One must always stay vigilant in these parts, particularly the one of your standings.'' The voice said again in a common tone of conversation, akin to giving advice. Petronius turned his head left and right, but could only see the person's hands. He struggled again, but it was all for naught. The action was causing him to tire a great deal.

The person removed hands from his shoulders and stood in front of him. Petronius took a few second, and recognized the man. Quintus Marcus Marcinius. He remembered him from the town this morning. What did this man want of him? Could it have to do with the next Primus in the Arena?

''Your mind now wonders the reason for current plight.'' As if reading it, Marcinius said. ''The conclusion can be drawn even by a mere child.'' He said in a derisive sort of tone. ''Release his mouth.'' He commanded and the gag was removed.

Petronius breathed in and out a few times, head bowed slightly. He then raises it to glare at his captor. ''Do you have any idea of what you are doing?'' He said with anger. ''I am Bellatorian citizen! You dare treat me this way Marcinius! This shall not go unanswered! Release me this instant, or I swear my brother-in... *CRACK*'' His ran was stopped by a punch on his left cheek, courtesy of one of Marcinius' men standing on the side. And it hurt very much so. Petronius now feeling dazed, let his head fall while his brain comprehended the ache in his cheek. Marcinius also waited for a man to raise head. After some time recovering, he did.

''See now, that is part of the reason. Your mind grasps well.'' Mockingly, Marcinius said again. ''Your dear, precious brother-in-law, whom you are even more devoted than his sister, has once again shown he lacks balls of direct confronting in the Arena. Not only that, he dares avoid it by, through his father's connections and coin no less, employ you; a third-rate Lanista for a cause.'' He took a dramatic pause of a few seconds. ''And therefore, he pisses upon me like a Jupiter himself, thinking he is untouchable because of assuredness that his father will clean after.'' He finished in his own angry tone. ''Me, an honorable, fourth generation of Lanista from Marcinius family.'' He added.

''Pfth, and that was always your position. Lanista. Without patronage from higher standing, you can't even hope of rising to the very top.'' Petronius responded acidly. Marcinius raised hand in stopping motion, which probably saved his head from more pain.

''Well, there just happens that a solution has come to mind. Very simple solution.'' He briefly stopped, got closer to Petronius' face. ''You are to relinquish your position in the Primus to my Ludus, with the full wage of coin from the winnings.'' He said with the serious voice.

Taken aback by it. ''You have lost mind! I can't give my position in the Primus to the rivaling Ludus! Antius would destroy me, my marriage, my business... his father will have me drown in the Styx itself!'' Petronius gave response in an enraged tone, but fear and trepidation were clear in his voice.

Marcinius backed away slightly and stood straighter. ''Unfortunate news. But I have not come this far to be given refusal.'' He gave a glance to his men behind him and gave a silent order with the tilt of head towards the bound man.

Petronius felt someone grab his arm and took hold of his pinkie finger. Before he could say anything, a snap was heard and his smallest finger bent unnaturally on the side. He could scream, but they gagged his mouth again, so all his ailing cries were muffled. He lifted his head to glare at Marcinius, but then anguish continued as his ring finger followed the fate of the last one. Resisting was futile as he the middle finger was next. What was he to do? Came the thoughts along with an immense pain, if he acquiesced, his life was practically over.

''Do it.'' Came the sudden order from Marcinius. Do what? As he looked to the man on his left, he saw a knife in his other hand. The man put the knife against his thumb and just with the few seconds his opposable digit came off. Blood started pouring out of the wound, hitting his captor's hand first and then slowly dripped on the floor.

Before the man could move to his pointer finger, Petronius' head snapped to Marcinius and despite the cloth blocking his voice screamed possibly the loudest of 'stop' in his life. Marcinius raised eyebrow and gave order to remove the cloth once again. ''Alright! By the Gods I'll do it! Please... Stop!'' Came an answer, with tears flowing from his eyes.

''Now was that such a hefty feat? Had you only said a mere 'yes', this act could have been avoided.'' Came a fake placating tone of a rivaling Lanista. Petronius was presented with the contract of declamation to his rights to the Primus in the Arena, with ink and paper all together. They really planned all this thoroughly.

After signing was finished, Petronius couldn't help but ask. ''How would you even explain my absence? Your machinations will come to fall, everybody will see through you!'' He finished hoping to discourage the man, and cursed the Hades himself after Marcinius gave him a pitying look while checking the paper for any lapses.

''Your skill in politics need much refinement. Alas, I am afraid you are no longer for this world.'' He said casually, while Petronius gave a confused blink, and that was his last action in the realm of the living as a snap was heard. Petronius was dead, Igneous breaking his neck with a well learned way.

Just at that time, Dolusius appeared at the entry having been given a sentinel duty. ''Dominus, all finished?'' He inquired Marcos and received 'yes' in reply. ''Then we need move and proceed with the next part.'' He stated the obvious, while Igneous and Ganicus were wrapping, the now dead, Petronius in a black fabric and removing residual blood stains. There wasn't that much, and this is a butcher shop after all.

As the four men ventured outside, there were two more persons waiting near by. Dolusius and Marcinius did not looked alarmed, while both Ganicus and Igneous watched with suspicious eyes. Then Dolusius approached the cape covered individuals and had a brief exchange with them. More likely, he muttered something among the lines of 'disposal of trash' and 'spurring the scene further'.

Igneous caught some of that. ''What is that man's agenda?'' He thought briefly. He could contemplate later, right now they still had their task to finish. He handed over the wrapped corpse to one of the mysterious persons, and maybe his eyes were fooling him, but he could sworn that he received a slight smile from under the cowl.

With no more words, the two strange person with the body walked away, a gust of wind suddenly blowing after them and raising a dust. One would think that it looked like normal, nature-caused event, but Igneous knew there was more than meets the eye. Marcinius even muttered a quiet 'fucking wraiths' as slight chill went down his spine.

As the began heading back to the Ludus, Ganicus couldn't help his curiosity ''Those two were...'' And didn't get to finish as Igneous shook his head and gave him a quiet retort ''Not now. The Ludus.'' Ganicus said no more and carried on after him. What a night.

XxX

Upon return Marcinius sent the gladiators to their respective quarters, while he went to his office with Dolusius for further talk of tomorrow's work. When they arrived to Ganicus' room, in the escort of the guards, the man in question said. ''I would have talk before sleep.'' He took out and gave each one ten denarii.

The guards relented. ''Make it quick.'' One of them said while giving Igneous a glare. Ganicus nodded and Igneous entered his room while the two man stationed themselves in front of the door.

''Twenty denarii for talk, it better be worth spending.'' Said Ganicus while looking at the rusty-haired man's eyes seriously. He better receive an answer of worth. That coin was earned with a lot of sweat.

The red-head stared back unflinchingly. ''Ghosts from the shadows they were. But what worries the most is Dolusius' involvement. After the Primus, we act further.'' He said.

His comrade snorted a bit and sighed. ''So it is. But what of Dolusius?'' Dirty-blond questioned. That snake could very well be the end of them.

''For now, we proceed as planned. The matter of Dolusius is set aside. We follow the design and obtain the fruits of labour after.'' The Hellhound finished. If he was right, then Dolusius could be of further use alive. But he needs to make sure of something on a later date.

There was a knock followed by 'time' from one of the guards. Igneous headed toward the exit before Ganicus stopped him with the grab on a shoulder. ''Remember your promise.'' He reminded the leaving man before letting go of him. Igneous gave a wordless nod and left the room.

Ganicus gave out a tired sigh before removing clothes and preparing for the night. He gave out another when his back hit the soft fabric of the cot. Igneous would be the death of him, he swears. But even so, Ganicus had no other option. If not for him, his life would have gone on a completely different path. 'How would that turn?' he mused. Most likely with him winning his freedom someday and wandering about, drinking, enjoying a good female company on occasion. It now looked quite 'dull' if he were honest with himself. This life truly brings the best and worst out of people.

Tonight was one such example. Slavery, what would become of this country after it's disbandment? The very idea brought all sorts of different thoughts on his mind, unwanted thoughts, memories of childhood. The thoughts of that man. Ganicus groaned ''Ugh, fuck the Gods, I should have brought wine.'' How was he to sleep now?

XxX

The sound of a door being locked were heard and Igneous was left alone for the night. Sighing slightly he moved and sat on a cot, his back against the stone wall and eyes turned to the ceiling. Soon, very soon all of this will come to past. When everyone is free, free to decide for themselves, free of coercing chains of slavery. Slavery. What an abhorrent, repulsive way of one state. Exploitation of people, treating them no worse than a farm cattle.

And his 'kind'. A decade ago, such notion would never fall upon his mind. But that was then. Then, he was free, no more like sheltered from the horrors of this world. So much depravity, corruption, wickedness. So much, evil. He gritted his teeth as a burning sensation came from his shoulder, his eyes flashing, giving a more menacing glow than usual.

''End it, eND iT aLL.'' The whispers came again. He gripped his head with one hand while clenching his fist tightly. His knuckles groaning under strain and going white, veins pulsing on his body. He started his usual mantra then. He brought legs underneath him, breathed in, and breathed out. Just like he was taught. No. There is still good, and he knows that. He bore witness to it, just like on that day. He started reminiscing of a particular turning point in his life.

The Pits. A brutal, lawless and smaller version of the arena where shamed men can fight/be put to their deaths. Few rules, and no honor. A single rule: 'Only one survives.' Kill or be killed, whilst the onlookers place bets on the respective fighters and revel in the bloodshed. Fighters can use anything they find as a weapon, including the sand they stand on. Those are the things he knows, that is how it works.

Sphairai punctured his opponents flesh for the umpteenth time, now on the jugular vein spraying blood everywhere, the ground the crowd, on himself. He wasn't finished, he need make sure that this one never stands again. Jumping onto him quickly, he started slamming his weaponed fists on the other combatants face. Blood still flowing, and the man looked no longer recognizable, his shill being turned to a pile of red mach. He stood up and the announcer called ''Igneous! Victor!'' The crowd was ecstatic, and profits were slowly distributed by the ones in charge of bets.

He didn't care, only thing that mattered was the survival. For he has long forgotten about the outside. He would end here, if happened, but not soon. No, he still had plenty of fire in him. He won't go down without the fight. Yes, the fight, the blood, he quite liked it. He gave off a grin that showed his sharper than normal canines. 'The Hellhound', they nicknamed him. Doesn't sound bad at all. The night would soon come, yet he wasn't finished for the day, if his 'patron owner' willed it. He gave that person a look, and he was discussing with the announcer. Then the announcer came to him ''You wish continue or retire, master gives you the decision.'' Strange, he was giving him a will to decide for himself now. Probably earned enough coin.

''I carry on.'' He answered with a hard, dreadful voice. Who would have thought that a fifteen year old can possess that kind of ominous aura.

The man seemed pleased, he turned and yelled ''He continues!'' The mass screamed in rapture, new bets were placed as the announcer proceeded with the talk. ''Next competitor, come forth!'' Before they could, there was a slight commotion as a man stepped out of the crowd and payed his participance with gold. The announcer looked startled for a second but went on. ''Challenger appears!'' He asked with a more quiet tone. ''Name?'' He received 'Nidas' as a response. He shrugged and shouted. ''Nidas against Igneous!'' He brought about the pouch. ''Your weapon of choice!'' 'Nidas' only shook head, deciding to fight bare-handed. ''Nidas fights with no weapon!'' He stepped further back and let the fight star. ''Commence!''

This one has a death wish, even if he looks bigger, Igneous took down larger oafs than him. He swung his arm widely at the man, but this one proved to have a good way with his feet. He grabbed Igneous' swinging arm, turned and used one leg to trip him and throw into a dirt. That has not happened in a long time. He quickly got up, made a jump and brought his leg for a high kick. Like before, Nidas was prepared. He stopped his kick with his arm, grunting slightly from the force of collision, grabbed his leg and with a great speed turned and brought Igneous to the ground again.

Igneous felt the air leaving his lungs. He saw the man's face and now noticed he had a scar running down on the right side of his face. And a pair of green eyes watching him with focus. Not malice or rage, but focus. Who in the name of Hades was this man. He fights like no other. Breaking his short line of thought, Igneous glared and tried using his strength to release himself, but Nidas shifted again, taking him beneath armpit and clasping his hands behind Igneous' head in a chokehold. They wrestled on the ground for a good minute, and the crowd booed for not getting enough blood from the fight.

''You do not belong here. Come to reason, Natsu Dragneel.'' Nidas said to him while still having a tight grip on the downed boy. He needs to finish this quickly.

Suddenly Igneous stopped his attempt of breaking free. That name. How long has he not heard it. No, this man does not know him, only one can say that name and this is not him. He saw red, and with a mighty roar he finally freed himself, he got behind Nidas wrapping his legs around him and started pounding his head with his bare hands. Yes, he will pay for this. But before even getting to a third punch, Nidas grabbed his hands, and threw himself on the ground using Igneous as a cushion to lessen his fall. And Igneous once again felt the breath leave him, what a hassle.

Nidas stood and positioned himself with his right foot an d left knee pinned on Igneous' respective hands. He had control now. ''Apologies.'' He muttered and punched him on the face once, for Igneous it might as well be as having rocks for hands, his skull started ringing, the matter in it started sloshing violently from the blow causing brain to register it as a great deal of pain. The nose was a rather sensitive pressure point. Then another punch, and Igneous almost lost all strength. ''Sleep.'' With the single word Igneous fell into a blissful unawareness.

''Nidas! Victor!'' The referee announced. There was a fight among the crowd among several people who lost bets and are disappointed with their favourite's loss. There were also three more figures that stood out of the crowd. For they pushed their offenders away like it was nothing, and the mob backed away from them.

''I am taking him with me.'' Nidas declared to the announcer. He looked at Nidas and then at the boys patron, but Nidas gave no further and picked Igneous, carrying him on his shoulder. He approached his companions that gave him his cloak back.

''This him?'' He asked Nidas with obvious skepticism. Nidas simply nodded head and they walked on their way out.

They were, however stopped by a boy's self-proclaimed master. ''Stop there, thieves! That is my property and I...*BLEGH*!'' He said no further as he received a swift kick on the face and a knife in his belly. He fell to the ground while still clutching on his wound, breathing raggedly.

The man who stabbed him pointed his bloody dagger to the surrounding mass of people, daring them to try anything. No one bothered them as they left on their way, but they turned their attention to the downed man and marked him as an easy target.

XxX

''All ... ...rt ..r one .oy! .hi. .. ..diculous, ..yond ...are ...nidas!'' Who screams at this hour, don't they know it will get them punished or worse? And what is with this headache? Go away! Shut it already! What of the next meal? Lunch? Hungry. Thirsty. He feels so weak right now. He needs to recover strength or else he will die there. He will die. Die. Die. Fight! Death! Blood! Wake up, N...!

A groan snapped the arguing occupants of the room from current dispute. The three of them turned heads to the forth, slowly waking person on the bed. ''He is coming about.'' One of them noted.

''Tch, I still think...'' Started another, but was quickly interrupted by the first one.

''And I think you should seize tongue for the next moment. We shall talk disagreements on another hour.'' Said the first, and only received a humph in response.

Slowly opening his eyes Igneous seemed confused of his surrounding. The bed was the most comfortable thing that he has slept for years. He brought himself into a sitting position, pushing the covers slightly off. He took notice that he was bandaged, his hands, left bicep, there was a patching on his right abdominal area, a work of Medicus? He touched his head and regretted as brought pain again, but it was not as strong as before. He also felt a soft cloth of wrapping around his head.

''Apologies for the head, but you wouldn't come to wits. I had no choice.'' Came a sincere apology from the right of the bed. He turned his head sharply, eyes suspicious and now saw three figures standing in a room of sorts where he was in. Two of them stood across from another, probably the ones who were bickering a moment ago. And the third figure was leaned against the wall on the left side of the door. Probably keeping watch, but not likely as he had a bored look on his face and kept his arms crossed.

One of the closest man cleared throat loudly. ''Now that he has awaken, we need proceed further.'' He said. By his tone, he did not sound very pleased with the situation.

The other sighed slightly and said. ''Yes we do. Greetings to brave Igneous, on behalf on my comrades and myself, I extend welcome. It is good to have you with us.'' Spoke the man with a calm and welcoming tone of voice.

Wait, this man. He recalls it now. He fought him in the Pits and lost horribly. Why was he here then? Why didn't he finish him? Those were the ways of the underground ring. What reason could he possibly have to keep him alive? Many questions started in his head, which brought more pain. He grunted slightly in discomfort. ''Why am I alive?'' He finally spoke.

''He talks. And what an interesting, philosophical question he poses. Why are we all alive?'' The second man commented in a mocking fashion. The other two only sighed at his remark.

''Please, Hannibal, if all your mouth can spout is offense, then do be so kind to leave.'' The first one scolded the now named Hannibal. Hannibal was of a darker skin tone than the other two, more brownish but not dark like others of black skin. He had a dark, curly, mid-length, messy hair, with brown eyes. They were all dressed in a leather armor like clothing, with a greaves on arms and legs, sandals, and a capes clasped on their backs. Both Hannibal and the man at the entrance had a grey capes, while the first man had crimson red one in colour.

''Fine, this was your planning in the first place, Leonidas.'' Hannibal said back with a bite in his voice and a scowl on his face as he turned and left the room.

The man at the door sighed his friend's action. ''That man will find smear even on polished Aphrodite's statue.'' Said a third one while shaking head in exasperation. ''I will find him and make sure he doesn't cause needless fuss. Again.'' He said with the slight smirk and started to leave.

''Please do so, Hector.'' Leonidas responded and received an upward thumb from the departing Hector. He turned to Igneous again. ''I apologise on Hannibal's behalf. He treats every stranger the same. I assure, he will come to accept your presence.'' He elaborated further.

That did not give answer to Igneous' current situation, so he asked again. ''Why I am alive? Where have you brought me?''

''A hiding place. Place for all who are free and oppose the regimes current policies of slavery and corruption.'' Leonidas answered, and added more ''We plan on making it a reality, with good men on our side, allies in high places, and a strategy that will finally rid these lands of it's dreadful condition.'' He finished, his tone more passionate now. ''We recruit from all places, and we need your help as well. Patience is necessary here, but everything can come to reality if people work together. United for a common goal.''

That sounded long and complicated. What use would they have of him anyway? Igneous was a mere fighter, living to survive. What could he do for them? He closed his eyes and breathed out. This was all so sudden. He raised head quickly when he felt a hand on his shoulder, flinching from the touch slightly. Leonidas was looking at him with kind eyes, the eyes of a father. He had a father, and he left him with no explanation or reason he knew of. It still bothered Igneous, every day.

''This is a lot for you, I am sure. I can give you time until your condition improves. Until then you may stay with us Natsu. If you decide to leave, know that no one will stop you. We are not like the other Bellatorians. You have free will, as any other human being since the day you were born.'' Leonidas spoke knowingly.

That does sound good, free will. To decide for oneself. Not being treated as a property or a tool that can be discarded at any time the other sees fit. ''How do you know of me?'' He had to ask, he wasn't sure when have they meet. And he was sure he told that name to no one.

Leonidas smiled good-naturadely and there was a quick flash in his hands. Magic!? An item appeared in his hand. A white scale-patterned piece of cloth. The one Igneous thought he would never laid eyes upon ever again. ''How...?'' He was at loss of words.

''One upon a time, I met a little boy being stripped of his freedom for no crime or reason. Loud and impatient, a bit brash little hellion he seemed. He left this in a carriage at the time. It appeared very important to him. Wearing scarf on a warm day.'' Supplied Leonidas with a smile.

It was that man. The first one he met that didn't treat him with any malice. Igneous felt tears starting to fill his eyes. ''That boy is no longer. That boy who wore smile, talked without cease, proud of his heritage his father left him.'' He then stated with a more blank expression, despite tears already falling from his eyes. ''That boy was crushed from the vastness of the world. Lost. In the depths of darkness.'' He closed eyes after giving reply using the bandage on his left arm to wipe the tears.

Leonidas smile fell, his arms now on his side, clenched. He can't allow this. ''Then, a second chance in life is upon you. Use it. Arise from the pits that tried engulfing you. Show the world that your fire still burns! Show them the igneous spirit I know you still carry in your heart!'' He encouraged him. ''But first, show me that you can still stand and fight. And not give in under their mockery and trampling!'' The man added with zeal.

Igneous was quiet for the moment, now looking at his hands. What can they do to help. Killing was most of what he knew now. ''Can these hands offer such help?'' He inquired with a slightly quiet tone.

Leonidas understood the meaning. ''Yes. Yes they can. The tools we all have on our disposal can be used for great evil, but also great good. Not everything is black and white. We have all committed deeds we are not proud of, myself included. You need look at the brighter future. For the path to that future is paved with peril and risks... Yet without committing yourself, your mind, body, soul, there can remain nothing but crumbling void.'' Leonidas said wisely.

After a few more moments he decided he should leave the young lad to his thoughts for now. As he made to leave, the voice stopped him. ''...I will.'' Came a sudden answer. ''I will lend my hand to your cause. If that be the last thing I ever do in this life.'' Igneous replied with more conviction than before since that day.

Leonidas mouth quirked again. ''Then it is my honour to fully accept your decision.'' He offered him the scarf again. ''It is official, from now on you are a part in our noble quest, Natsu Dragneel.''

''No.'' He shook head and Leonidas looked confused. ''I am not worthy of that name nor the object. Not now.'' Before Leonidas could say more he added on. ''My name is Igneous.'' He said with finality. ''How I am to proceed next?'' He passed the question.

Leonidas blinked and then nodded. ''You are to rest for now. Recuperate. I shall send for you in due time.'' He said.

Igneous also nodded before lowering himself on a bed again. It was really cosy. ''Alright.'' Leonidas turned to leave and as he was opening the door, a question came from the bandaged boy. ''Where is this?'' The boy asked.

In turn, Leonidas only looked at him with grin and gave a short response. ''Crypteia.'' And he was gone after that.

Igneous opened eyes to stare at the, now vacant room's, door. What has gotten himself into? He couldn't help but wonder while closing his eyes to get much needed rest.

XxX

Igneous opened his eyes. They stopped glowing. He was breathing evenly again, relaxed. Focused. That is what he was thought at the beginning of his training. What his teacher taught him. A lesson of great value. He allowed a smile on his face. Time will soon come. 'Drastic changes will soon come.' He reminded himself. Until so, he is to use forbearance. It was helpful.

That's enough for now. So what do you think, more questions than answers I assume? Well as I said, you can always Pm me or post a review. Since there are not that much of you at the moment. But I guess that's how it is for the newbies such as myself.

Read and review all you want. Toodles for now!