"A great man will never be asked if he told the truth."
- Lord Admiral Arlon Rainfall, Ruler of Sailor's Hill

A/N: If you're enjoying the story so far, please consider writing a review!


"A gift, Your Majesty, Mr. Bolton sends his regards."

Hisui forced back a scowl from atop her throne. "Yes, what a charming and gracious man he is." Taking a few steps forward, Jack's messenger opened a small, intricate box he was carrying, revealing the valuable contents tucked away inside. King Toma raised an eyebrow in mild surprise. It held dozens of tiny red gems, bright enough and shiny enough to put even the most prominent of jewelers to shame. So bright, in fact, that it was almost like they were staring into the blazing sun.

The princess frowned and shifted angrily from side to side. "Fire Rubies? What a thoughtful gesture. How, pray tell, did Johannes get them here? Those gemstones can't be found anywhere in Ishgar."

They could have easily been stolen, or worse. Toma glanced at his daughter in irritation, displeased with the aggression in her tone, but he himself was curious about the gift's origins.

"The United States, Your Highness. Trade with the Antegriens has flourished in the past six months. Their government has recently chosen Mr. Bolton as the main distributor of steel and other minerals to the New World. In addition to all that, our new partnership with the Rainfall Admiralty will-"

Hisui abruptly held out her hand to silence him.

"The Admiralty? Can we expect to see elven corpses hanging in the streets of New Everton?"

That vicious criminal managed to sway Lord Arlon? Impossible. Assuming this was true, the chances of Black Jack becoming Fiore's new ruler were now overwhelming.

"Lady Hisui, Johannes will do nothing of the sort. The Foreign Rights Act will be enforced with a vengeance under his watchful eye. Our leader won't stop the war for liberty until the last rifle is silenced."

The young woman didn't fall for his tricks, his lies. This was so sickening it almost made her nauseous.

"Does Bolton care for the people or his pocket? Some Fiorens are convinced he orchestrated the destruction of Heartfilia Railways seven years back, what do you think?"

"Enough, Hisui. A wise man once said don't shoot the messenger." An eerie silence echoed throughout the room as Toma cleared his throat. "What have I done to earn such a generous act of charity?" The messenger straightened his posture. "It's U.S. tradition, Your Majesty. During the final days of a president's term, his elected replacement is expected to offer a possession of great value. This is to ensure there are no hard feelings between the two during the exchange of power. Mr. Bolton thought it'd be wise to share some Antegrien culture with his future family."

Hisui tightened the grip on her throne. Future family? She would rather marry a Vulcan. Toma responded before the princess could berate him any further. "Reiterate my thanks to Johannes. It's touching to see such consideration and unselfishness in a man so young," he set his regal gaze on the box, "however, I'm afraid I can't accept this."

Hisui's eyes lit up slightly as the messenger remained silent, unsure that he heard him correctly. "While we do have the utmost respect for your corporation, it has not yet been officially decided who will bear the crown following my abdication. I wouldn't want to defile the legitimacy of your traditions." His daughter relaxed somewhat as a surge of genuine happiness coursed through her veins. Watching Black Jack being denied something he wanted, now that felt good. Hisui was by no means a petty or malicious person, but when dealing with Bolton she was willing to make an exception.

The messenger closed the box and nodded. "Thank you, King Toma, your… respect for our culture is noted, but if not Johannes, then who else? The Wizard Saint, Arlon Rainfall has rejected your proposition." The princess tapped her fingers against her throne and crossed her legs.

"What's your name, sir?"

Standing tall and proud, the man brought his hand to his forehead in a standard military salute. "Lieutenant Noda of the 7th Legion, Your Highness."

She leaned forward gracefully. "And what do your brothers in arms say about Johannes Bolton, Lieutenant? Please answer truthfully."

Toma wasn't exactly sure where his daughter was going with this. The soldier answered without hesitation.

"They call him Black Jack. They say he can down a whole flagon of ale in a manner of seconds, and that his roar can be compared to that of a dragon." Hisui waved her hand, signaling him to continue. "Mr. Bolton is quick and exceptionally clever. Most of us look at him in admiration, but we can't help but shrink back in fear as he passes. How can we not? The man has a bit of a dark side."

The king chuckled. "Really? And this terrifying man is who you've chosen to follow?"

A contemplating expression passed Noda's face.

"Say what you will about our leader, but when we Antegriens first started immigrating to Earth Land, the locals scorned us, laughed at us, spat as we passed. They called us dirty yanks and threw stones at us." The man's eyes narrowed. "Now, who answered our desperate plea for help? Not our king, not our country, Johannes. Jack paid for our homes, gave us jobs, built our livelihoods. With respect, Your Majesty, if that's not a man worth following, then I don't know who is."

The pair of royals fell deathly quiet.

"Thank you for the insight, Lieutenant. Inform Mr. Bolton that I'll make my announcement soon. He won't be waiting for much longer." Noda bowed his head in recognition. "Of course, Your Majesty. My Lady. Good health and fortune to you both." Hisui remained expressionless as Jack's messenger left the throne room. She couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt whilst contemplating the Antegrien situation in Fiore.

The soldier was right, when the foreigners first arrived in their lands, they barely lifted a finger to help. In her mind, the kingdom was burdened with much more pressing issues that required their attention and resources. The Balam Alliance, the Elven Genocide, the Eclipse Project, helping misplaced immigrants settle down appeared insignificant in comparison.

Now, it looked like the Crown was paying the price for it. Hundreds of thousands of loyal Antegriens now stood behind what was perhaps the most morally depraved aristocrat to ever walk the Earth.

They couldn't just call their banners and sic the wizard guilds on him. No. This problem was far more complex than anyone could have imagined. That's all the Bolton Corporation has been since its founding. A problem. Johannes wasn't the master of a dark guild, he was the head of a multi-billion jewel company that several nations were economically dependent on. Although, if you looked closely enough, you probably wouldn't be able to tell the difference.

To make matters worse, Bolton now had Lord Rainfall's backing. The Blue Sea Serpent would bare its fangs and consume all of Earth Land's waters. With Jack's limitless wealth and Arlon's strategic cunning, there wasn't anything the two men couldn't accomplish.

"Not 'officially decided'? Care to elaborate, father?" Toma chuckled. "Don't think much of it, daughter, you're still marrying Johannes. This is just to humble him a tad, I want that man to know this is something he needs to work for. A king must learn how to overcome an obstacle, especially marital ones. Through your mother, I learned that the hard way."

His gaze suddenly turned serious. "Why do hold such a scathing hatred for Jack Bolton, Hisui? To my knowledge, he treats his workers firmly yet fairly. Unlike most of the nobles on this planet, Johannes has dedicated countless millions to serving the people. Your people. Do you believe New Everton would be the shining jewel of culture it is today without his aid?"

She scoffed.

"Father, that's just his brand. Rubbing elbows with small business owners and smiling for the cameras, it's just a performance. That PR woman, Crenshaw, is likely behind those acts of charity." The king sighed and hopped off his throne. "Are you sure this isn't personal? Perhaps you hold a grudge against him for what happened to Jude Heartfilia. I know he was a friend of yours, but this-" Hisui stood up in indignation.

"That corporate loan shark bankrupted him solely over his own pride and greed."

"You don't know that. Bolton himself showed Darton his company records. The data proves he's innocent in the collapse of Heartfilia Railways. These allegations are based on nothing but rumours and heresy."

"When an unexplained disaster strikes, you need to consider who has the most to gain. Johannes profited immensely that following year."

"And? Does that make him a villain, Hisui? When one company falls, another rises in its place, that's how business has worked since the dawn of time. Are you so naïve as to believe Jude was squeaky clean himself? He hired that madman Jose to raze Magnolia to the ground, that's tolerable?"

No. This was different. Much different.

During the time leading up to his death, Lucy's father was clearly a good man, he repented. Bolton couldn't be redeemed, at least not in the same fashion.

"You're missing the point, he doesn't operate in plain sight, and don't you find the situation with House Rainfall concerning? Our relationship with Sailor's Hill worsens with each passing day, Johannes could very well send them over the edge. Arlon won't put up with his nonsense for long, we can't risk losing the Admiralty's support."

"We'll cross that bridge when we get there. Lord Arlon cares little for political affairs outside the Stormwall, he's made that abundantly clear, I'm sure the Blue Sea Serpent won't cause Crocus any significant problems down the road."

"Yes, because he's too busy slaughtering innocents by the dozen. Oh, how are we doing in that department? Do we have a way to stop him?"

"Hisui, I love you more than the world itself, but please stop prattling on about issues you don't fully understand, it worries me. Court's over for today. If you find legitimate proof that Johannes Bolton is the scoundrel you make him out to be, then please, share it. Until then, I don't want to hear another word."

Without looking back, King Toma began walking down the hall towards the door. "Now, I believe you have an appointment scheduled with Marissa. Don't be late. That lovely red dress needs to be picture-perfect, after all."

The princess fell silent as she was left alone in the daunting throne room. Despite having so many caring and loyal friends in her life, Hisui never felt so small, so alone. She was wrong about the Eclipse Project, but she sure as hell wasn't wrong now.

Father dearest wanted proof? Fine, he who asks shall receive. Black Jack came from nothing, yes, but soon enough, he will return to nothing.

Fortunately, Hisui knew just the guild who would be willing to help.


3 WEEKS LATER…

"Wow, keep up the good work and you just might make rent this month, Lucy!"

"Very funny cat. Very. Funny."

The boisterous Team Natsu shared a hearty laugh as they returned from yet another successful job.

Business. Was. Booming! Everyone couldn't get enough of Fairy Tail nowadays. Whether it was to fend off murderous bandits, secure precious artifacts, or hell, even to help change a lightbulb, who's the first guild they called on? Every newspaper and magazine in Fiore had at least one of their faces on it. Tales of their unexpected victory in the Grand Magic Games spread like a freaking disease throughout the kingdom, except people didn't mind if they caught it.

This situation was quite overwhelming, to say the least. A few months ago, no one would touch them with a ten-foot pole, but now, it seemed like the public wanted one of their wizards in every town, every port, every city, it was insane! This was the life.

"Who's down for another job tomorrow? Can't have those punks from Sabertooth hogging all the glory now, can we?"

Erza rose an eyebrow in mild skepticism. "There's plenty of work to go around, Natsu, it's not a contest anymore." The Dragon Slayer pounded his fists together in glee. "Yeah, but the GMGs are only a year away! I'll beat Sting and Rogue's asses twice as fast!" Gray just snorted. "That's funny, pyro, you could take those two on but not that sleazy iron dealer back in the palace? You must be losing your edge." Just the mention of that punk brought a scowl to his face.

"Black Jack? Don't worry, ice boy, one day I'll give him a beating he'll never forget."

Lucy and Happy looked at him in concern. Clearly, that wasn't something they wanted to hear. "At ease, Natsu, you will do no such thing," chided the redhead, "your stunt in Crocus has already put us at risk, so let's refrain from poking the bear." Erza anticipated this. She would have to keep a close eye on Salamander for the time being.

"C'mon, Bolton can throw a punch, but he's no fighter. What's there to be scared about?"

"What's there to be scared about? He's going to become king, Natsu. We could just wake up one day and find all kinds of taxes, fines, and other nonsense hanging over our heads. Of course, a man like Johannes wouldn't stop there if provoked. He could simply buy all the cheapest housing in town and turn Magnolia into a giant slum. If we moved to another city, he could follow us and repeat the process. This isn't a traditional enemy we're facing, and now, thanks to you, Fairy Tail's in his crosshairs. Understand?"

The fire mage blinked. All he heard was a bunch of gibberish and words he only vaguely knew the meanings of.

"Sorry, Erza, I'm not following ya."

"She means Bolton has enough money to screw us around, Natsu, get it through your thick skull!"

Lucy quivered slightly at the thought. The last time Fairy Tail angered a man of wealth resulted in an all-out war. Phantom Lord. They took the girl hostage and made plans to ransom her. The Abyss Break spell could have easily murdered thousands, them included. Technically, that happened seven years ago, but it felt just like yesterday. She didn't want the guild to go through that ever again. A man who's up to his neck in gold could make life miserable in more ways than you could count.

"Why don't we, you know… make a peace offering?"

Everyone turned towards the blonde. "Jack likes to drink, doesn't he? Let's throw a party for his Inauguration Day and invite him as the guest of honour. It could be hosted in the guildhall, there'll be booze, food, dancing, all that stuff. Let's show the Bolton Company that Fairy Tail supports their boss's ascension, make it clear there's no bad blood between us."

"Great idea, Luce! We could have Mira slip something into his cup! Jack will be vomiting all over the place, it'll be awesome!"

"Stop it, Natsu." Erza silenced her friend by shoving his head into a nearby tree. "The idea does have merit. Yes, he's obnoxious, but that's just how some men are. I personally have nothing against him, so let's be mature here and salvage the relationship while we can." Gray nodded in agreement. "Yeah, and Bolton would look like a shmuck if he refused a Fairy Tail welcome. He could get some good press out of this if we part on good terms. Everyone benefits." Happy perched himself on top of Natsu's head like a bird. "Aye, sir! Crack out the barrels and fill your mugs!"

The fiery Dragon Slayer grumbled, but otherwise kept his mouth shut. This wasn't the way he liked to settle a score, but if it was in Fairy Tail's best interest, then so be it.

"It's decided, then. Good thinking, Lucy. I'll see what Master Makarov has to say about it. I'm sure he's just as eager to avoid bloodshed as we are."

The four young wizards, plus one airborne cat, finally reached the gates of Magnolia, offering pleasant waves and smiles to those who passed them. It was a relaxing Friday evening, and the usually crowded streets were mostly deserted, presumably because everyone was resting after a hard day at work. The calming atmosphere was a nice change of pace from battlegrounds and monster dens, and the golden sun was just beginning to set behind the very building that mattered most.

Their new guildhall stuck out like a sore thumb in the very center of town, looming over almost every other structure nearby, a shining beacon of hope and independence, a symbol of freedom. While many wizards throughout Ishgar see their guilds as little more than workplaces, Fairy Tail was a family. Erza herself was quite satisfied with how the events in Crocus played out. They gained recognition, enough money to get their home back, and most importantly, allies.

Guilds like Mermaid Heel and Sabertooth were far better off being their friends rather than foes. If push came to shove, and the Bolton situation went hot, they could almost certainly count on their backing. Both Sting and Kagura seemed genuinely disturbed by his presence, their wizards must have encountered Jack's henchmen in the past.

Speaking of which, the Queen of the Fairies was quite eager to see her fellow swordswoman again. They haven't known each other for very long, but Erza could tell that girl was someone she could relate to. The redhead could tell her all about the time she spent with Simon, of all those times he remained strong in the Tower of Heaven.

However, it seems like Kagura was facing a bit of an unexpected issue; a land dispute.

The Rainfall Admiralty has been growing more and more aggressive towards Mermaid Heel in the past year, insisting that the Town of Seabreeze should fall under their jurisdiction.

The exclusively all-female guild has been living there since its founding and was just an hour's ride north of the Stormwall. Kagura didn't exactly hide her distaste for the young Lord Arlon, who apparently rose to power during their time on Tenrou Island. Erza didn't know much about the Southern Coast in general, but she respected their previous leader, Ryhard Rainfall. The men of Sailor's Hill were known to be just and reasonable, surely an agreement can be made. She would have to visit them soon, for Kagura and Millianna's sake.

"Man, I'm beat," said Gray, "who wants a bite to eat?" Happy let out a sly smirk. "Hey, maybe your blue-haired girlfriend's in there, why don't you ask her?" The ice mage grimaced as they entered the courtyard, dreading the thought of being smothered, yet again, with Juvia's unwanted affection. "God, I hope not."

Natsu pushed on the large oak doors of their guild, only to freeze in place once they were open. That scent… he definitely smelled it before. It smelt like whiskey and gunpowder, yup, guess who decided to pop in for a visit?

"You know what, sweetheart? This has to be the best chicken I have ever tasted."

Kinana smiled and moved her hand to cover her rapidly burning cheeks. "Oh, you're just saying that…" He shot the barmaid a charismatic smile and leaned back in his chair. "No, no, no, listen. It's crispy, but not dry, and there's just the right amount of seasoning on it. Those hungry buggers are lucky to have you."

"Thanks, Jack. I'm sure Mirajane will be happy to hear it, this is her recipe, after all." Sitting at the far end of the dining hall sat the problem they were discussing mere minutes before. Lounging back casually in his seat, Johannes was wearing basically the same outfit he had on from a few weeks back. Instead of a checkered long-sleeved shirt, the man wore a simple black jacket emblazoned with the Bolton Company's logo on its front. Everyone was either out working or had gone home for the night, so the room was practically empty.

"What do I spy with my little blue eyes? It's Fiore's greatest heroes!"

Pushing the plate aside, Johannes stood up and took a long, languorous stretch. The oligarch looked like he was getting just a bit too comfortable, in Natsu's opinion.

"Love what you've done with the place, I really do, so much roomier than the previous location. Ms. Kinana! A round of ale for my new pals here, on me!"

The girl smiled and rushed off to carry out his request. This was certainly unexpected. Erza shot Natsu a mild glare of warning before the group made their approach, as if to say, don't try anything stupid. "Why's he here?" whispered Lucy. Gray just shrugged his shoulders apathetically in response. The oligarch didn't have any goons with him, nor was he armed with lawsuit papers, so that was a good sign.

"Johannes. What brings you to Fairy Tail?" As usual, the knight was all business, but there was a touch of suspicion present in her tone.

"Woah. Ice cold. I can see why everyone around these parts is so fucking terrified of you, but I gotta say, you're a real beauty up close, Titania. Can I get an autograph?" Erza grinned but furrowed her brows. "Well, you sure know how flatter a girl, Black Jack. Don't you have a company to run? You seem to spend a lot of time loafing around in bars."

"Eh, leave the paperwork to the desk jockeys. I'm the one out in the field hauling ass, getting real work done. Ask Ms. Fairy Tail, she'll vouch for me." Bolton folded his arms. "Speaking of which, it's a damn shame Mira's not here tonight. She's always been my favourite."

Natsu scoffed and took a threatening step forward. "You here for a reason?"

Lucy's eyes flickered worriedly in the Dragon Slayer's direction. "C'mon, Salamander, why so serious? We duked it out and destroyed some shit, which didn't cost Makarov a cent, by the way. Two peas in a pod, we are. I'd kiss you, but I prefer blondes."

The redhead narrowed her eyes, clearly disapproving of the man's unprofessional behaviour. "Intriguing. What was it you said before storming out of the ballroom? I always get what I'm owed. Forgive me, but that was mildly… off-putting from our perspective."

"I was just blowing hot air. Empty words, meaningless. The Strauss girl didn't tell you why I'm here, did she?" The group exchanged unknowing glances, answering his question. "Good. What I did back in Crocus was… inexcusable. Your guild was celebrating something grand, and I buggered it all up. So, on behalf of my own ego, I apologize." Natsu let out a surly grunt, although the fiery wizard wasn't sure how to respond. Although that apology sounded lame in his ears, their team has forgiven others for much worse in the past.

Erza was surprised. She never would have guessed that this seemingly vindictive businessman would come to them, in person, no less. Maybe, just maybe, they had nothing to worry about.

The knight extended her armoured hand towards Johannes, which he eagerly shook.

"We accept."

Lucy breathed out a sigh of relief as the tense exchange began to die down.

"Excellent! Oh, I almost forgot, here's a little something to remind you that we take care of our friends." Bolton stuffed his hand into his back pocket and brought out a crisp-looking envelope. The paper was smooth and neatly folded, possessing a light red border around its edges. Erza recognized the logo stamped onto the seal, this was from Akane Resort. Skeptical, she opened it up.

"When's the last time you all took a vacation? Pack your bags, Fairy Tail, rest and relaxation awaits."

Ten golden tickets to Fiore's most enticing landmark greeted the redhead as she peeked inside. Natsu chuckled. "What is this, Jack?" Johannes put his hands up. "C'mon even certified badasses need to kick back every once in a while. Ten rooms to everyone who fought in Team A and B back in the Games, all expenses paid, of course. My treat."

Happy's eyes lit up in utter excitement while Lucy just looked at him in surprise.

"Those are for the VIP service! One of these things would be pricy, but ten? That must have cost a fortune!"

"Well, It's a good thing I'm a rich man then, isn't it? There'll be no waiting in lines, unlimited food and beverages, and the best part: hookerrrrrrs!" Titania scowled in disgust while Happy tilted his head in confusion. "Natsu, what's a hooker? Some kind of fish?" The Dragon Slayer scratched his head before turning to his red-haired companion. "Yeah, what's a hooker, Erza?" Now it was Bolton's turn to look confused. He concluded that Fairy humour was just different from his own.

"Very funny, Salamander. Oh, Sorry. I shouldn't say such an ugly word in front of two fine young ladies. It's supposed to be offensive for… whatever fuckin' reason."

The knight wanted to decline, strongly, especially since the last time they'd been to Akane ended in disaster. However, it wouldn't be fair for her to speak on behalf of the other nine who've been gifted a ticket, and ever since Tenrou, their guild has been working exceptionally hard. Plus, accepting this would hopefully give Fairy Tail a fresh start with the Bolton Company.

"Thank you, Johannes, we'll put these to good use. I'll inform the others immediately." After glancing briefly at Natsu, the brunet nodded in confirmation. "Glad to hear it, and please, call me Jack. Transport has already been arranged. Akane's expecting you first thing next week. If all of you come back sober, then this was just a waste of money."

The barmaid returned with a tray full of drinks and set it carefully on the table. "Speaking of which, now's a good time to get wasted. I'll leave you to it. Don't forget to enjoy yourselves, you hear?" Johannes took out his wallet and left some bills on the table (and a very generous tip to Kinana) before making his leave.

Just as Bolton walked passed Natsu, the fiery wizard stopped dead. That scent. It was different from this close, but… why? He only got this feeling a handful of times before.

Gray and Lucy looked at him strangely as the pinkette spaced out in contemplation. Regaining his senses, the man spoke up.

"Hey, Jack."

Bolton halted and looked over his shoulder.

"You like trains?"

The room grew even more silent than it was a moment ago if that was even possible. Johannes let out a boorish snort before giving an honest-to-God answer.

"Trains? I fucking hate 'em."

He just smirked as Natsu remained motionless, leaving behind three bewildered wizards, a flying cat, and one shocked Dragon Slayer.

"Hm. He noticed. Maybe you've got some brains after all, Dragneel. After I'm done sucking every last drop out of your little friends, the two of us can have quite an interesting conversation."