Well, this chapter is a little longer than my previous two, being about as long as my first chapter, as the chapter itself started to get away from me. It was really fun to write, especially since I am outside of canon and have a lot more freedom at this time and I took full advantage of it. I'll try and keep this note short, since my most recent note for A Third Chance already explained things in more detail.
Basically, I've finished exams and can write with free reign once again, but I won't do daily updates, as that really burned me out last time. All stories will be updated and I haven't abandoned anything. I've set up a pat reon, the link to which is on my page, for any support you can provide me with, so I don't need to take a hiatus for anywhere between 1 and 5 years.
Thank you to the two new patrons supporting me, I greatly appreciate it.
Might need surgery in the coming months, which may cause a slight delay in updates for that week. Don't read too much into Natsu's interactions with people early on, as he can be friendly with someone, without them being in his harem. Polls for the harems will remain open indefinitely, but I will start to finalise the harem by chapter 5 for all stories.
This is new and not mentioned in my previous note, but after chapter 5, I will add the highest person on the poll to the character tags of each story. Also, something I should point out, it is hinted at in the title of this chapter, but as a heads up, Natsu, in this story, will be crazy possessive, like, close to Yandere levels, but without the killing.
Also, as a status update, I'm currently working on a chapter for The Beginning of the E.N.D. and Heart of a Dragon right now and have two/three (depending on editing) chapters of What Hides Beneath The Surface almost ready to go up. Once again I'm repeating myself, but, I am not abandoning anything. I will get around to all my stories in time, just give me some time to actually write the chapters.
Well, that's all for now so enjoy the chapter.
SSJ3 Kyuubi Gohan.
Disclaimer – I don't own anything from the Fairy Tail anime/manga. All I own are my original characters and plot twists.
'Talking'
"Thinking"
*expression*
Flashback
Techniques
Chapter 4 – Mine
As the trio of Natsu, Erza and Mira returned to the guild, after collecting the reward for Natsu's job, a small conflict could be heard inside. As Natsu opened the door, he could clearly see Makarov and Laxus Dreyar glaring at each other.
'Come on old man, this just proves that you're getting lax. What kind of S-class mage can't do their own job?' Scoffed Laxus.
'There were extenuating circumstances Laxus. If you'd recall, she has completed numerous S-class jobs before this one and didn't fail any.' Protested Laxus.
'Yeah, and people almost died this time. Face it old man, you aren't fit to be the Guild Master and should just retire already and hand the position to me. This just proves your judgement is failing.' Said Laxus mockingly.
'Oh, and you're fit to be Guild Master, are you?' Asked Makarov, with a quirked eyebrow.
'Of course, I'm the strongest in the guild.' Replied Laxus, only to hear the sound of soft laughter.
'That's funny Laxus, you almost made me believe you.' Said Natsu mirthfully, as he looked at Laxus with a grin.
'Natsu… do you really think you should be taunting me right now. I might just finally give you the fight you keep asking for.' Said Laxus, before turning his gaze to Mira.
'And you…' Started Laxus, before shaking his head with a wry grin.
'Oi! What are you trying to say Laxus? Were you saying all that about me? How about I kick your ass?' Shouted Mirajane angrily.
'You're much too weak to even pose a threat to me, especially if you needed Natsu, of all people, to bail you out. He isn't even S-class.' Scoffed Laxus.
'Well, if I'm so weak, why don't you prove it and fight me. Stop hiding your true power as well, after all, you can't fool my nose.' Said Natsu, tapping his nose, causing Laxus and Makarov to look a little surprised.
'If you know that I'm holding back, why on earth would you challenge me? Have you finally lost what little cognitive power you did have?' Mocked Laxus.
'Well, we can find out easily enough.' Retorted Natsu, with a smirk.
'Funny, Natsu, you're a regular comedian aren't you… and just like most of this guild, you are a joke. Don't worry though, when I take over, I'll fix that.' Said Laxus challengingly.
'You know, you talk an awful lot. It must be a fake thing, because I know an original wouldn't be so arrogant.' Said Natsu disinterestedly, cleaning out his left ear with his smallest finger.
Laxus growled at Natsu's impudence.
'Well Laxus? Are you afraid or something? Afraid I'll show you up as the fake that you are.' Said Natsu darkly, glaring at Laxus with ill intent, which actually caused Laxus to pause.
'Ho? That's a lot of animosity you're showing, what's wrong? Are you upset that I called you weak? Maybe the guild? Or maybe, those two pathetic excuses for mages next to you?' Taunted Laxus.
Mira and Erza looked indignant and were going to retort, when they felt the heat around them increase. Slowly everyone in the guild picked up on it as well and started to sweat in trepidation.
'Stop barking Laxus. Or I'll make the first move, which will also be the last.' Said Natsu, glaring at Laxus.
'You? Don't delude yourself, you couldn't even scratch me.' Scoffed Laxus, before he was suddenly launched through the right wall of the guild.
Everyone in the guild looked on in shock, as Natsu seemed to disappear in the same moment.
'Well Laxus, I must say, I'm impressed you aren't unconscious. I guess even for a fake, you are pretty strong.' Commented Natsu, standing outside of the guild, looking down at the currently kneeling Laxus, who, while scuffed up and bleeding slightly from the mouth, was not too badly harmed.
'You… you… Natsu!' Roared Laxus, lightning enveloping his form, as he stood up.
As Laxus raged, Natsu sunk his fist into Laxus' gut, causing him to gasp.
'You bark too much Laxus. Hopefully this will humble you. You aren't the strongest in the world, in fact, you aren't even the strongest in the guild, remember that.' Said Natsu, before Laxus slumped over Natsu's shoulder.
"Honestly Laxus, you're even more arrogant than I ever was in my prime." Thought Natsu, with a hint of exasperation, as he carried the knocked-out mage to the guild infirmary, ignoring the looks he got on the way.
"I suppose Etherious or mage, there always will be people with overflowing arrogance. How annoying. Still, once Sayla does find my book, I wonder which I should be. Also… I wonder what I should do to Zeref." Thought Natsu, gazing down at the knocked-out mage.
As Natsu walked out of the infirmary, he noticed everyone still staring at him.
'Eh, sorry about the wall gramps.' Said Natsu, snapping a few people out of their shock.
'What the hell was that Natsu?' Asked Erza hotly.
'What? It was just a friendly exchange.' Said Natsu, getting most of the guild to sweat drop.
'I see… in that case, I'll allow it, but don't trash the guild next time.' Said Erza seriously, getting even more of the guild to sweat drop, at how easily she believed Natsu.
'Sure thing mom.' Chirped Natsu, causing Erza to growl.
The angered knight marched upstairs and quickly grabbed a request, before coming back downstairs and grabbing Natsu by his scarf.
'Master, I'm going on this job with Natsu now.' Said Erza simply, dragging the amused Dragon Slayer behind her.
'*sigh* I guess we'll postpone that talk again Lisanna, see you when we get back and look after Happy.' Said Natsu, as he waved to the youngest Straus sibling.
'Ok Natsu, see you when you get back.' Chirped Lisanna happily, giving Natsu a small wave.
As the two left, there was silence in the guild for a full minute, before an angry growl was heard from the infirmary.
Laxus blasted the door to oblivion, as he exited the infirmary.
'Where is he?' Shouted Laxus, lightning arcing off him sporadically.
'Natsu and Erza just left on an S-class job.' Said Makarov simply, sipping from his mug of beer.
'Hmph, left behind the failure as well it seems.' Scoffed Laxus, glancing at Mirajane.
The white-haired demon growled at Laxus in irritation.
'Failure? Hehehe don't start me Laxus. You might be strong, but I can still give you a run for your money.' Said Mira challengingly.
'Please, you're even weaker than Natsu, considering he needed to save your ass.' Mocked Laxus.
'Well, as I recall, he kicked your ass a second ago.' Retorted Mira, getting Laxus to growl and advance on Mirajane.
'Laxus! That's enough!' Shouted Makarov, flaring some of his magic power, to show his seriousness.
'Fine, I'm leaving. This guild is full of weaklings anyway.' Said Laxus contemptuously, before turning his body into lightning and disappearing.
'Bastard.' Muttered Mira under her breath.
'So… should we do anything about Erza taking Natsu on an S-class job?' Asked Macao.
'Yeah, what gives gramps, why'd Natsu get to go on an S-class job?' Asked Gray.
'Erza was the S-class mage who took Natsu with her. Natsu is perfectly allowed to join her as support.' Said Makarov.
'Although, I do find it odd, Erza usually does everything alone.' Muttered Makarov softly.
"Hopefully Natsu can fix that." Thought Makarov optimistically, before taking another sip of his beer.
-line break-
'So, want me to fly us there?' Asked Natsu, as the scarlet haired knight continued to drag him down the street by his scarf.
'Oh no, this is my mission, so I'm in charge. I'm the S-class mage after all.' Said Erza, with a gleam in her eye.
'Ok so where… no.' Said Natsu calmly, before his eyes widened towards the end.
'Yes.' Said Erza simply.
'No.' Repeated Natsu.
'Yes, oh yes, Natsu!' Shouted Erza in excitement.
'No… wait, that sounded kind of dirty… you don't imagine me when you read those books of yours… because I mean I know Gray, you and I bathed together in the past, but that is pretty… well, I'm flattered… an also a little creeped out right now.' Said Natsu.
Erza's face twitched in annoyance.
'Shut up Natsu!' Shouted Erza, yanking on his scarf more forcefully.
'Well, you didn't deny it… although I hope you don't ever imagine both Gray and I together.' Said Natsu, only to see Erza blush slightly.
'Oh that is so wrong… is that why you always got in between Gray and me when we fought? Were you really trying to just get in the middle of us… and have a whole different type of fighting happen?' Cringed Natsu.
'Shut up! I only ever thought of you!' Shouted Erza, before cursing at what she let slip.
'Hmm, guess I really should stop calling you mom then… that makes me feel awkward thinking about it now.' Said Natsu, a slightly queasy expression on his face.
'Whatever, we are here now.' Huffed Erza.
Natsu looked up and glared at their new location in annoyance.
'I told you I can just fly to places now.' Growled Natsu.
'Yes, but I'm in charge and what I say goes, or you can go back to the guild.' Said Erza, with a smirk.
Natsu was torn, he really wanted to go on another S-class job… but he really didn't want to ride a train, even if he could somewhat deal with them now.
"I can't believe I'm doing this." Thought Natsu in defeat.
'Fine.' Muttered Natsu sourly, causing Erza to grin triumphantly.
As the two purchased their tickets and boarded the train, Natsu made sure to sit across from Erza.
'Natsu, why don't you sit next to me?' Asked Erza.
'Because, I'd rather you not slug me in the gut, under the pretence of helping me.' Said Natsu.
'Why, didn't it help?' Asked Erza curiously.
'I think help is a strong word… I didn't notice the train… because you would knock me out.' Said Natsu.
'I see, I didn't realise it was such an inconvenience to you, please hit me.' Said Erza, bowing her head.
'Didn't I tell you to stop doing that because it makes people feel uncomfortable? Unless you are a masochist.' Said Natsu, before stiffening as the train started to move.
Erza studied Natsu, who wasn't in fact groaning in pain, but was sitting rather rigidly.
'Natsu, are you okay?' Asked Erza curiously, only to get no response from Natsu.
'If it helps, you can rest your head in my lap without me knocking you out first.' Offered Erza.
Natsu remained silent, as he was trying to keep his composure, but managed to give Erza a strained look.
Without any further prompting, Erza stood up and sat next to Natsu and made to punch him in the gut, before hesitating, upon seeing his worried look.
'Sorry, force of habit.' Said Erza simply, before nudging Natsu, so his head now rested on her lap.
'Oh thank God! This is so much better than actively trying to hold everything in place. Just please don't wallop me in the stomach anymore.' Said Natsu in relief.
'I'll try to remember not to.' Said Erza, as she lazily brushed some of Natsu's hair, causing him to lean into her touch.
'Erza, can I ask you a serious question?' Asked Natsu softly.
'Hmm, what is it?' Prompted Erza, enjoying the feel of Natsu's soft hair.
'Did something happen to you in the past to make you so… brazen? I mean, you tend to act rather rigid with a lot of people… you also don't mince words at all.' Said Natsu slowly.
Erza stopped playing with Natsu's hair and adopted a somewhat sad expression.
'You could say that.' Said Erza quietly.
'Do you want to talk about it? I mean, bottling things up does tend to make things worse in the long run. If not for others, then at least for yourself.' Said Natsu.
'Well, I didn't exactly have a normal childhood.' Started Erza.
'Well, if it is any comfort, that seems to be the case with most people around our age at Fairy Tail. We all have some great burden that we carry. Although, some keep it to ourselves and shoulder the burden alone, even though the rest of us would gladly help.' Said Natsu, now turning his head so he could look up at Erza's face.
'I… I was from a village, Rosemary Village. I don't remember my parents, but I did have a kind man look after me for most of my life. Unfortunately… our village was raided by Zeref worshippers, who captured us and forced us into slavery, to build something called the Tower of Heaven.' Continued Erza.
'Wait, Zeref worshippers? Are you sure?' Questioned Natsu curiously, getting a nod from Erza.
'Yes, they said that the tower, would be used to resurrect Zeref.' Said Erza.
Natsu's expression hardened at this.
'Go on.' Said Natsu, after a moment.
'C-can we stop there for now?' Requested Erza softly.
'Of course, but remember Erza, it is better to get these things off your chest.' Said Natsu.
'I know, but… I can't go through it all right now… not again.' Said Erza, as a tear started to build up in her left eye.
Natsu raised his right hand and gently caressed the left side of Erza's face, startling her slightly.
'Hey, remember the deal: you protect Fairy Tail and I'll protect you, from everything, past, present and future.' Intoned Natsu softly.
Erza gave a small nod, enjoying the abnormal warmth coming off Natsu's hand and relaxing once again.
'While we are on the subject, why did you say that you'll protect me? I'm the S-class mage, it should be my job to protect you.' Said Erza calmly.
'True, that is normally how things would work, because you being S-class would mean you are stronger than me and my senior. However, I'm not promising to protect you as a mage, as Elfman would probably say, I'm promising to protect you as a man. You, Mira, Lisanna, everyone in the guild, I'm not protecting you all from a mage stand point, I'm protecting you all from a family stand point and a man needs to look after his family… even if he is apparently married already since he was eleven, has a blue furred son and multiple dysfunctional uncles and moody brothers, one of which is currently short circuiting as we speak no doubt.' Said Natsu seriously, before chuckling towards the end.
Erza merely smiled at Natsu's characteristic response.
'That's so much like you Natsu… thank you… for being there for everyone.' Said Erza.
'Of course, I wouldn't be Natsu Dragneel if I wasn't.' Commented Natsu, giving a toothy grin.
The train stopped at that moment and announced their arrival.
'This is our stop Natsu.' Said Erza, causing the Dragon Slayer to groan slightly as he sat up.
'Well, that was a much better ride without you knocking me out.' Remarked Natsu, before standing up, causing Erza to smile.
'Yes, we don't often talk that much, do we… it was nice.' Said Erza.
'Well, don't knock me out and we can do the same thing on the way back… even if it would be faster for me to just fly us.' Said Natsu, with a grumble towards the end.
'Well, if you slow down, I might let you.' Said Erza, getting Natsu's expression to light up.
'Awesome! Well, let's get going now anyway. Wait… what is the job exactly, you never did tell me.' Said Natsu cheerfully, before becoming serious.
'There is a pack of Lizardmen terrorising a few farms and stealing their livestock. We are going to either repel them, or eliminate them.' Intoned Erza professionally, as she started to head off the train with Natsu.
'I see… and I just realised, you didn't bring your massive eyesore that you call luggage, guess you really don't want me calling you mom.' Said Natsu, getting a twitch of recognition from Erza.
'Well, since you are with me, I'll rely on you to help me cover my back.' Said Erza.
'Hmm, I could do more than just cover you back if you want. I mean, we could always have a bath together if you want… since you did say you've dreamed about it before, but we'll save that for after the mission.' Said Natsu with a wink, causing Erza to splutter.
'So who is the client? Or was it one of those things the council sends out to every guild to try and look like they care about the people?' Asked Natsu.
'It was a council sanctioned mission and you really should show them more respect, Natsu.' Chided Erza.
'Please, I know you're all for order, but the council is all about their image. If they need to pin the blame on you to cover their ass, they'd do it in a heartbeat and don't deny it.' Snorted Natsu contemptuously.
'Be that as it may, it isn't a good idea to antagonise them… well, any more than we already do.' Said Erza firmly.
'Fine, fine, let's just go do this, I'm itching for a good fight, I hear Lizardmen have seriously tough hides.' Exclaimed Natsu in excitement.
'Patience Natsu, we'll be there soon enough.' Said Erza, as the two left the train station and headed towards the forest near the town.
'So, since it was council issued, does that mean we might run into someone from another guild?' Asked Natsu.
'Possibly, but unlikely, as it can only be taken by S-class mages and there aren't exactly dozens of them, in any guild.' Answered Erza.
'Hmm, that's a shame, I never get to meet any other S-class mages outside of Fairy Tail and we only have five total.' Said Natsu, with a sigh.
'Well, if you become S-class, you can take these jobs by yourself and maybe run into more later on.' Supplied Erza.
'True, but gramps only ever has one mage graduate, once a year, that's a really low turnover rate.' Griped Natsu.
'It ensures only the best proceed, keeping everyone safe. S-class jobs aren't easy after all.' Said Erza.
'I suppose.' Replied Natsu noncommittally, after which the duo lapsed into silence.
It was a rather long walk to the forest and the silence was starting to bore Natsu.
'Erza, if you could have any special power, what would you want?' Asked Natsu suddenly.
'What?' Questioned Erza in confusion.
'Like another type of magic or something, what would you want?' Elaborated Natsu.
'I don't know, I never thought about it. What about you?' Asked Erza, as the duo neared the dense forest.
'Hmm, well there isn't a lot I can't do… maybe breath underwater… or better yet, not need to breath at all, so I can always blast out my fire…although, I like breathing… so maybe, the ability to eat my own fire.' Said Natsu.
'So… basically a way to infinitely use your power?' Asked Erza.
'Yeah, that sounds like something I'd like.' Said Natsu.
"Of course, if I could use my curses, I'd be able to do that right now." Thought Natsu, with a frown.
'Well, what about you?' Asked Natsu.
'The ability to requip instantly.' Said Erza without hesitation.
'Aw come on, you can already do that in an instant, think of something more fun.' Protested Natsu.
'And eating your own fire is so different?' Jabbed Erza.
'Hey, at least I said breathing underwater first.' Defended Natsu.
'Just one thing, there has to be something.' Probed Natsu desperately, seeking something to alleviate his boredom.
'The ability to instantly make strawberry cheesecake without bringing all my luggage along.' Said Erza, after some thought.
'See that is something… wait a minute… do you mean your massive eyesore of luggage you carry with you… almost everywhere… is food supplies.' Questioned Natsu in astonishment.
'…yes.' Said Erza, with some hesitation.
Natsu stopped walking, prompting Erza to do the same.
'I can't believe I misjudged you so much… I thought you were a completely strict, by-the-book person.' Said Natsu slowly.
'What do you mean?' Asked Erza.
'I mean, you're a genius! Why didn't I think about bringing food with me all the time?' Questioned Natsu, with an energetic laugh.
'Natsu, you shouldn't carry around unnecessary things with you on jobs.' Chided Erza.
Natsu stared at Erza in disbelief.
'You do realise I got the idea from you…' Said Natsu.
'Nonsense, it is completely necessary that I bring my cheesecake and ingredients along with me.' Retorted Erza.
'Wow… I've never seen such blatant denial and hypocrisy before…' Commented Natsu in awe.
'Wait, what did you mean then, about you relying on me to cover your back, if all of that stuff was supplies?' Questioned Natsu in confusion.
'To help me sniff out a bakery, so I can get some cheesecake of course.' Replied Erza.
'…What am I? A cheesecake hound?' Questioned Natsu in disbelief.
'Well, in any case, we are almost at the last sighted position of the Lizardmen, so now would be a good time to be serious.' Said Erza, getting a nod from Natsu.
'Fine, but we will come back to this.' Promised Natsu, before raising his awareness.
As the duo cautiously walked forward, a rustling was heard in the treetops, before six, bipedal, green-scaled creatures, dropped down from them. Each had numerous, finger-length black spines, running along their bodies, over the bones in their arms, legs and back, providing not only a formidable deterrent to attacks, but also giving them rather potent offensive capabilities. Their expressions were all blank and their eyes glared at the two mages unflinchingly.
'Lizardmen, stop terrorising the nearby farms and stealing their livestock! This is your only warning.' Announced Erza.
'Uh, can these things even talk… they look pretty stupid.' Said Natsu tiredly.
The Lizardmen didn't respond, causing Natsu to sigh.
'Ugh, strong silent types, how boring.' Commented Natsu.
'Leave now, or you will be expunged forcefully!' Declared Erza, requipping a sword.
This stirred the Lizardmen into action, seeing the obvious threat. Four of the Lizardmen slowly converged on Erza from all directions, while the other two watched attentively.
Erza charged at the one coming directly for her and slashed her sword down, only for it to shatter instantly. Though surprised, Erza quickly jumped back and requipped a new sword which she held defensively. As the Lizardmen continued to close in on her, the one behind her suddenly picked up speed, flexing his fists, preparing to grab Erza in a bear hug, only to have his head slammed into the ground by a flaming sandaled foot, knocking him out instantly.
'Aw man, one hit and he's out? Weak. Maybe it was because I hit the head, I wonder if the body is stronger…' Said Natsu thoughtfully, as he stepped off his downed opponent.
'Natsu, don't drop your guard!' Shouted Erza, looking back at Natsu and seeing his casual demeanour, only for him to disappear in a burst of speed and rush past her, causing her hair to flail wildly.
'Same to you.' Said Natsu, as he had buried his fist into the gut of the Lizardman, who had tried to attack Erza, while her attention was off him.
The Lizardman gave a small grunt, but stood strong, even with the burning fist in his abdomen.
'So, you guys are pretty durable it seems, considering that same attack knocked out Elfman when he was The Beast. Guess I'll just avoid headshots for now then.' Said Natsu, before roaring to his right, hitting one of the other Lizardmen, before a flaming kick was launched into the abdomen of the one his fist was currently buried in. The Lizardman was knocked back only slightly from the attack, causing Natsu to grin.
'Alright Erza, you can have the other three, I'll take these two. After all, I shouldn't hog them.' Said Natsu, as he saw the one he had blasted with fire had emerged unharmed, barring a few burns.
Erza quickly recomposed herself and transformed, summoning a set of silver armour which covered her entirely, barring her toned stomach and showing ample cleavage.
'Dance, my swords!' Commanded Erza, as numerous blades requipped around her, forming a fast spinning disc, which she launched at the three Lizardmen facing her.
There were numerous sharp clangs, as steel met spines and it seemed spines were victorious, as nearly every one of Erza's swords had shattered, with only a few managing to impale the Lizardmen. One of them suddenly charged Erza, only for her to requip two swords and meet it head on.
'Heaven's Wheel: Blumenblatt!' Intoned Erza fiercely, as she charged her opponent and gave him a dual slash, which was followed up by a stream of requipped swords, causing enough damage to the beast, to send it into a tree, which promptly shattered, leaving the Lizardman unconscious.
Erza sensed movement behind her, only to see the other two charging her. Caught slightly unprepared, Erza attempted to raise her swords and block, only for them to be slapped away from her and for one of the Lizardmen to shoulder barge her.
Erza gasped in pain, as she was forced to exhale suddenly, as the beast's shoulder emptied her lungs. Before the other could capitalise, one of its fellow Lizardmen was sent flying at it, at brutal speeds, knocking the two of them out.
Both Erza and the Lizardman turned in the direction that the other Lizardman had come soaring from, only to see a frightening fiery demon.
'You dare hurt that which is mine… allow me to reward you for such foolish bravery.' Spoke Natsu ominously, before he charged the Lizardman and launched a fist at its left shoulder, causing it to spin and be launched away from Erza.
Natsu quickly swung into action.
'Fire Dragon's Tail!' Shouted Natsu, as his right leg was engulfed in fire up to his knee, and he swept the beast's legs, causing it to fall, only for it to backflip and regain its footing.
'You must be the leader of this pack. None of the others showed such dexterity, so I'll use you to send a message, Fire Dragon's Roar!' Bellowed Natsu, launching a wave of fire at the beast.
Feeling the searing flames coming off Natsu and from his attacks, Erza quickly changed into her Flame Empress Armour, providing her some protection from the white hot rage of her fellow mage.
Erza watched in undisguised surprise, at how easily Natsu was keeping up with the Lizardman, launching attack after attack, not letting himself be countered even once. It was after a minute of this, that Erza realised, that Natsu wasn't trying to defeat the creature, but, was in fact, beating it with malice behind his attacks. Erza moved to step in, only for Natsu to suddenly appear behind the Lizardman and knock it out with a flaming fist to the back of its head, causing it to collapse like a sack of potatoes.
'Natsu, that was entirely excessive, I wasn't even hurt that much.' Chided Erza, only to see Natsu look at her with a gaze she had never seen before.
'Did I ever tell you that your Flame Empress Armour is my favourite?' Questioned Natsu causally, uncaring of the severe beat down he had just delivered, as he started walking towards Erza.
'No.' Said Erza, with a confused gaze, wondering where Natsu was going with this.
'I really do like it, and not just because of how much it shows of you… actually, a lot of your armours do that.' Said Natsu, as he continued walking towards Erza.
'It is to provide flexibility of movement.' Defended Erza, before thinking of one of her newest armours and blushing slightly.
'For the most part.' Muttered Erza, looking to the side, only to feel Natsu step very close to her.
'It isn't even the dragon motifs either, but I have to say, they are an enhancing feature. No, I really like it, because you use fire in this one. It reflects your fiery personality the best, which I just love, much more than your annoying disciplinary role, or your coddling attitude towards nearly every mage in Fairy Tail.' Continued Natsu, looking Erza directly in the eye.
'Something about it… it really fires me up.' Said Natsu, with a smirk, leaning closer to Erza.
Erza froze, unsure of how to react to Natsu's statements. Luckily for Erza though, a new voice announced the arrival of another person.
'Aw, you guys got wild without me. Guess that's what I get for having that drinking contest back in town, even if it netted me a hefty sack of jewels.' Commented a man, with his arms and shoulders covered in dark blue plate armour.
'Bacchus, what are you doing here?' Asked Erza, turning to the newcomer, as Natsu took a step back, with a small frown on his face.
'I came to take out the Lizardmen, but it looks like you got to them before me.' Said Bacchus, as he took a drink from the gourd in his hand, before noticing the leader of the pack.
'Wow, that's pretty brutal, even for you Titania.' Commented Bacchus, in mild surprise, seeing the charred leader's form, with multiple shattered spines and heavy bruising.
'Actually, that was me.' Said Natsu, getting the alcoholic mage to look at him questioningly.
'Eh? Who are you?' Asked Bacchus curiously.
'Well, recently I've been thinking of calling myself the Shibari Dragon, but someone didn't like that idea.' Chortled Natsu, upon seeing Erza's horrified face.
'Natsu! Don't call yourself the Shibari Dragon! Your moniker is Salamander, as it should be.' Said Erza affronted.
'But Salamanders can't fly or breathe fire and I can do both. Besides, you saw what I can do with a rope in a hurry, just imagine what I could do with a bit of focus.' Laughed Natsu, giving Erza a toothy grin.
'Hahaha, whatever you want to call yourself kid, I like you. You've got a real wild personality!' Exclaimed Bacchus, getting Natsu to grin.
'In that case, call me…' Said Natsu, as he paused, only for Erza to quickly interject.
'Salamander! I won't let you call yourself Shibari Dragon!' Shouted Erza, with a small blush, having snapped out of her fantasies about what Natsu, plus rope, with the addition of strawberry cheesecake, could lead to.
'Fine, fine, call me Salamander I guess.' Said Natsu, with a dismissive wave of his hand.
'Haha, nice to meet you then Salamander. Although, Titania, how about we go another round? Maybe one of us will come out on top this time?' Said Bacchus, with a grin.
'Hmm, I didn't think you were the type for something like that, Erza.' Said Natsu in interest.
'Just what exactly are you implying?' Asked Erza.
'Just that now I know why you always come back from your missions hot and sweaty. I thought it was because of the mission itself… but it seems you work up a sweat another way.' Said Natsu, nodding occasionally.
'I don't do anything like that!' Shouted Erza hotly, having finally picked up on what Natsu was insinuating.
'Haha, Titania isn't that wild Salamander! She and I just have a habit of bumping into each other and fighting, with neither one of us being the winner so far.' Explained Bacchus heartily.
'Really, you're a match for Erza?' Said Natsu questioningly, glancing towards his temporary teammate.
'In that case, why don't you and I have a fight?' Propositioned Natsu, with a grin.
'Natsu, Bacchus is an S-class mage as well you know, a strong one at that.' Said Erza warningly.
'That just makes me want to fight him even more.' Retorted Natsu, getting Bacchus to laugh heartily.
'Well, I'm up for a good fight. Especially since you took down those Lizardmen.' Said Bacchus, with a grin.
'Should we fight right now then?' Propositioned Natsu.
'Let's at least get the reward for the mission first.' Said Erza.
'Fine, but let's go do that now, I'm all fired up for a good fight!' Exclaimed Natsu, as the trio headed to the town at a leisurely pace.
'So, Bacchus was it? What kind of magic do you use?' Asked Natsu, after a while, as the trio walked.
'Trying to get an advantage over me for our fight?' Questioned Bacchus jokingly.
'No, just curious. I use Fire Dragon Slaying Magic if that helps.' Said Natsu, only for Erza to speak up.
'Natsu, don't go around telling people your magic.' Chided Erza.
'Why? I mean, Salamander, charred Lizardmen, and we were talking about how I use fire. Not to mention, my attacks are kind of a dead giveaway… I mean, Fire Dragon's Roar, Fire Dragon's Claw, Fire Dragon's Wing attack… pretty obvious.' Countered Natsu.
'Well, you won't hear me calling out any fancy attacks, because I use Palm Magic.' Said Bacchus, getting Natsu to look at him.
'Hmm, Palm Magic, that's unique… can't wait to see it in action.' Said Natsu thoughtfully.
'Oh you won't just see it.' Said Bacchus, with a grin.
The trio started to approach the town, only to notice the citizens seemed to be distressed.
'Hmm, what's going on?' Asked Natsu curiously.
'Dunno, everyone was fine when I left here an hour ago.' Added Bacchus.
'You, tell me what is going on!' Ordered Erza, as she singled out a poor man, that she had grabbed by the scruff of his shirt.
'Lizardmen! A pack of Lizardmen are coming!' Shouted the panicked man.
'Impossible, we just defeated them.' Said Erza, before releasing the man.
'Uh Erza, I don't think we defeated all of them.' Said Natsu, as he tapped her on the shoulder and pointed off in the distance.
Erza looked in the direction Natsu was pointing and spotted four dozen approaching Lizardmen.
'Guess we must have just beat up a scouting party or something… makes sense, since this is supposed to be an S-rank job.' Said Natsu.
'I see, in that case, let's go and finish this job.' Declared Erza.
'Works for me, I was really looking forward to some action.' Said Bacchus enthusiastically.
'Guess we'll be fighting alongside each other for now then.' Commented Natsu.
Bacchus grabbed a gourd by his side and uncorked it, before drinking the whole thing.
'Let's get wild!' Cheered Bacchus.
'Hehe, I'm all fired up!' Howled Natsu in agreement.
Erza just gave a small sigh.
"These two shouldn't associate with each other too much." Thought Erza, before the trio charged the dozens of oncoming Lizardmen.
-line break-
Sayla walked towards the dwelling of the current Guild Master of Tartaros, Mard Geer Tartaros, The Underworld King. Sayla entered the darkly lit room and made her way towards the throne upon which Mard Geer sat, before bowing her head and kneeling.
'Master, I have urgent news.' Said Sayla, in her usual soft voice.
'Oh, what is it, Sayla?' Asked Mard Geer casually.
'Master E.N.D. has returned.' Said Sayla, only to feel a chill in the room wash over her.
'Oh? Is that so? Why, pray tell, would Master E.N.D. simply not show himself then? Why act through a conduit?' Questioned Mard Geer.
'He wishes to continue what he is currently doing, but also wishes to alert the Balam Alliance of his return, to remind them of their place.' Said Sayla, still not looking up.
'I see… and you expect me to believe this, despite the fact that I hold his soul in my very hands?' Questioned Mard Geer, causing Sayla to look up and widen her eyes in shock.
For held in between the hands of Mard Geer Tartaros, was a book. A book, with the words E.N.D. clearly printed on the cover.
'For your foolish deceit, I believe you must be punished, Sayla.' Said Mard Geer, as vines shot out and encircled Sayla.
'B-but, I only speak the truth Master.' Stuttered Sayla in surprise.
'In that case, call for Master E.N.D. and have him show you mercy, because I don't believe I will.' Said Mard Geer, as he stepped off his throne and approached Sayla.
'Now Sayla. I believe now is the time for you to call for Master E.N.D. before I begin.' Said Mard Geer with a relaxed expression.
"Master E.N.D. please help me." Thought Sayla nervously.
'No, don't think it my dear, cry out to Master E.N.D. because if he truly is back, only he can save you now.' Said Mard Geer calmly.
'Master E.N.D. please help me.' Said Sayla softly.
'No my dear, louder.' Said Mard Geer, as he tightened his vines around Sayla, causing her to cry out in pain.
'Master E.N.D. please help me!' Cried Sayla.
-line break-
Natsu had just knocked out his twenty fourth Lizardman, when he heard something in the back of his mind, causing him to freeze. A few of the Lizardmen noticed Natsu's lack of concentration and lunged at him, hoping to take him out of action by surprise. Erza noticed what was about to happen and was about to cry out, only for Natsu to suddenly shoot into the air, blasting away the three Lizardmen that had lunged at him, before disappearing in a burst of speed.
-line break-
'Don't you see the error of your ways yet, Sayla. Lying to Mard Geer is not something you should do.' Said Mard Geer, as he tightened his thorns even more, causing Sayla to grunt in pain before crying out again.
All of a sudden, the guild itself started to tremble. Mard Geer looked around slowly in confusion, before hearing the sound of his thorns being torn. As he gazed upon the figure in front of him, his eyes slowly widened in shock.
'Mard Geer, you should always remember…' Started the figure, which currently held the rest of Mard Geer's thorns, clenched within clawed hands.
'Do not touch, what is mine!' Growled Natsu, as he crushed the thorns in his left hand, cradling Sayla to his body with his right arm.
So how was that? Hope that was a good chapter considering the wait.
Now, it has been a while since I did a Kyuubi's corner, but there is one thing I want to address that I've been noticing recently.
For some reason, Lucy seems to get a lot of hate from people… for the first thing… I'm baffled… you guys do realise she is the MC in Fairy Tail, right? I know you can argue that it is Natsu, but to be honest, the main character is actually Lucy, since we are all following her journey and she is the one who has most of the major plot points, i.e. Future Lucy, Lucy closing the eclipse gates, Lucy being the only one to escape from Alegria etc.
Aside from the E.N.D. twist, which, if you haven't noticed by now, I can't get enough of, most of the story revolves around Lucy, barring an arc or two for other members of Team Natsu. Although, her being the MC or not in people's eyes, isn't really what confuses me… what confuses me, is people calling her useless. I won't go into this in too much detail, as I don't need to start tearing into other characters at this stage… Sakura of course, who aside from the moment she physically pumped Naruto's heart to keep him alive, never really wowed me at all… but anyway, Lucy is actually a unique character, who honestly fits Fairy Tail.
To clarify, I'm not a Lucy lover, I mean, she isn't even in my top 5, but she does bring something special to the table.
As far as the story is concerned, "Friendship Tail" works off "Nakama power-ups". Love or hate Fairy Tail, this is one underlying point that is ever present. Lucy of course, is Natsu's main boost, so it is obvious she can't be too strong, or else why would Natsu go nuts and destroy stuff? I mean sure, Erza was vulnerable during the Tower of Heaven arc and Natsu went Dragon Force crazy to save her, but she isn't vulnerable at any other time. The story needs Lucy to not be overly strong, so Natsu can "save the day".
That being said, Lucy can hold her own. I mean, she did beat Angel, a member of one of the strongest Dark Guilds in existence and did beat Jackal, also a member of one of the strongest Dark Guilds in existence, both, with her only real offensive attack, but the point is, she isn't an offensive character. She is a support character. In every good team you need an attacker, defender, coordinator and a supporter. Lucy is a supporter, even with the boosts she gets from Star Dresses and what not.
Her being only for fan-service is also a fallacy, as a huge load of the plot needs her. I mean, Phantom Lord wouldn't have even happened without her and we would have missed out on Gajeel and Juvia (who is in my top 5), which would have been terrible. The whole Dragon invasion would have also led to the end of the world without her… so yeah, she is kind of important for things…
Her losing her clothes all the time is somewhat fan-service-y, but her whole character isn't only fan-service. I mean, look at Erza's armours, or Lisanna's take overs, or hell, just look at Cana… look at her.
That being said though, I can't be the only one who finds it refreshing that Lucy isn't just another busty and oblivious main girl, like, say, Orihime, or Hinata. She actually uses her charms and even if most of the time it makes her come off as cheap and vain, at least it is something new, as opposed to the usual thing, in which, a hugely busty main girl NEVER, and I do mean never, tries to use their assets for personal gain.
I suppose one of the main points people have against her, would be that she, by default, is paired with the male lead, Natsu. Obviously, this is death for Lisanna and Natsu, as well as Mira and Natsu, and Erza and Natsu (my actual pick of things for Natsu's canon pairing, but one I know won't happen), but then again, we have fanfiction for that sort of thing.
Another point, is probably the overabundance of NaLu stories on this site, which does get tiresome, but that isn't any reason to actually hate her in canon. I mean sure, I hated Hinata because the Naruto FF archive shoves her down our throats, but as for canon, Naruto and Hinata work (because both suit each other, honestly, even if both have horribly annoying character traits).
My final point though, is how important it is that Lucy ISN'T OP.
As much as it pains me, just look at what happened with Dragon Ball and Goku. I love Dragon Ball immensely, but the only moment of anything outside of Goku saving the day, was Gohan and the Cell saga, my favourite arc for obvious reasons (see my pen name). This though, unfortunately, shoves everyone to the side, in order for Goku to save the day. There is only one other instance in which someone else does anything big outside of Goku, which was Vegeta going SSJ and beating Android Nineteen… which was quickly quashed by Eighteen kicking his ass and also breaking his arm (I don't count Piccolo killing Raditz, since that was an assisted kill… by Goku and while Trunks killing Frieza was cool, basically any Super Saiyan could have done that, even Goten… plus, Trunks was from the future and had been fighting the androids, who can easily kick Frieza's ass, so it isn't really a fair scenario). They started to bring things back in Super, especially in Resurrection F, with Vegeta going SSGSSJ as well, but pretty much everyone else is pushed to the side.
With Lucy not being OP, we get to see a wealth of other characters expanded on. I know a lot of characters are neglected, like Jet for instance… I mean, if Lee could be that strong with speed, why can't Jet do something… especially since he is basically reverse-Racer, who was apparently a really strong dark mage (to be honest though, I found Racer kind of lacking)… but we do see Team Natsu expanded on a lot, as well as Mira, Elfman, Cana, Gajeel and Juvia as mentioned previously, as well as Laxus, Gildarts etc.
Point being, if Lucy was a typical MC who was stronger than everyone, no one else would get much of a push.
Well, that's all I had to say on the matter and with that, I wrap up another edition of Kyuubi's Corner.
SSJ3 Kyuubi Gohan.