The next morning, Raid wakes up, and see Crush at his door. "I'm guessing you got the talk too" says Raid. Crush nods. "Well, what do we do? I mean, we can't just tell everyone, but we can't keep lying either" says Raid. Crush stares Raid in the eyes. "I...I know. Just give it some time okay. We'll handle it later. For now, we've got a mayor to take down" says Raid. Crush shoots Raid a look. "They what" asks Raid in suprisment as he rushes out the door and down the hall. Elora looks at Raid, and turns in disgust. Alyn shakes his head. And Cotton won't look Raid in the eyes. "Hey Raid! Congratulations! Your dating both Winter and Red at once. I know how happy that makes them" says Lily happily. "Only a scoundrel dates 2 woman at once" says Elora. "I thought you were better than that master Raid" says Cotton. "Two timer" says Alyn. Crush walks past Raid and shakes his head. "Hold on since when-" starts Raid. He has a flashback of last night. "Oh yeah. (Sighs). I seriously should have picked my words better" says Raid. "Don't worry Raid! Even if the rest of the world thinks you're a scumbag, I'm still your friend" says Lily happily. "I don't know if that was supposed to make me feel better or worse" says Raid as he drops down in shame. "Well let's investigate the town a little" says Alyn. "Yeah, lets-" starts Raid. "Not you lover boy. You have some issues to deal with" says Elora. "What do you mean" asks Raid. "Dating silly. You can't just go out with a girl, you have to take her on dates...or them I guess. The point is, you have to treat them to something nice" says Lily. "But-" starts Raid. "No buts. Do it" says Elora with a cold stare. "Yes ma'am" says Raid. The rest of the group walk out, leaving Raid alone. Soon after, Winter walks out with her hair done up nice, and a white dress with blue ribbons on it. "I...know it's not usually my style, but I thought you'd like it" says Winter. "You look...very pretty" says Raid as he turns red. Then Red walks out with her hair done to the side. She's wearing. Shorter purple dress. "Do you like it darling" asks Red. "Yeah. You both look great" says Raid nervously. They each pick him up, and take one of his arms. "Uh, I feel kind of under dressed here" says Raid. "Nonsense darling. You look fine" says Red. "Hey...can I call you a pet name too? She calls you darling, so it's only fair" says Winter. "Uh...I guess" says Raid. "Um...are you ready to go...honey" Winter asks turning beat red. Raid turns a little red too. "Hey darling. It looks like this was left for you" says Red handing Raid a letter and a bag. 'Dear Raid. We left you this small amount of money to spend on your dates. Make sure to give those girls a good time, signed Alyn'. "Ah, okay girls. Let's go...do this...dating thing" says Raid. "Oh yeah, you've never been on a date before have you" asks Winter. Raid shakes his head. "Well, how about we go to lunch first" says Winter. "Yes, I'm starved" says Red. The group walk outside, and as they walk, gossipers mumble about how bad Raid is for having 2 girlfriends. Raid looks upset about it, but says nothing. They finally get to a place to eat, and they sit down. They pick up menus and Raid looks a little nervous. "What's the matter darling" asks Red. Raid turns super red. "I-I...uh...I can't read" says Raid. "Oh yeah. I suppose you wouldn't. Here, let me read it to you" says Winter. "No way. I'm his real wife, I'll read it to him" says Red. The two bicker back and forth, when a man with grey hair, but appears to only be in his 30s, walks up. "Young man, I understand that you can't read" says the guy. Raid nods his head in embarrassment. The man gently smiles. "Relax. It's not a big deal. WAITER, PLEASE GET THIS MAN A PICTURE MENU. Now, these girls seem happy with you, maybe they can teach you how to read. It's Important you know" says the man. Raid smiles. "Thank you" says Raid. "It's no problem. (Looks over at the girls). You have to take good care of these girls you hear. It's a big responsibility to take care of 2, but if you truly care for them, it wouldn't matter if there were 100" says the man as he walks away. "Well I think that's probably the nicest person I ever met" says Raid. A waiter brings Raid a picture menu. After lunch the three are walk around town arm in arm again. "So, what now" asks Raid. "Well, what do you want to do" asks Winter. Just then, a kid stumbles into Raid and passes out. He looks down to see the kid is battered and bruised, and incredibly skinny. Raid looks at the girls with pleading eyes, and they nod. Raid takes the kid to the doctor he met before. The doctor opens the door and yawns again. "Oh, it's you again. Look, if you found another cat, take it-" starts the guy. Raid hold the kid up. The doctor looks at the kid for a minute. "She's beat up pretty bad this time" says the doctor. "Yeah he i-hold on, did you say she" asks Raid. The doctor pulls the kids hat off, and long white hair flows from the hat. "She's been here before, several times. This is the worse I've seen her though. I honestly don't know if I can help her" says the doctor. "Who is she" asks Winter. "Some street rat. Her parents kicked her out of her home when she was born" says the doctor. "Why" asks Red. "Because of what she is. She's an artificial Dragon Slayer. A Slayer who doesn't have a dragon parent. They're rare, but they do exist" says the doctor. "Why would someone throw you out for that" asks Winter. "Because, Slayer's are worth a lot of money" says the doctor. "Wait you don't mean" starts Winter. "Yeah. They sold her, to some ruffian gang around here" says the doctor. Red clenches her fist. "Can...you help her" asks Raid. "I don't know" says the doctor. "Try" says Raid. The doctor holds his hand out and starts healing. The bruises and scratches heal a little. "That's all I can do. I'm sorry. I really feel bad for her" says the doctor. "Thank you" says Raid. "Well, next time you find a stray, you know where to find me" says the doctor in a half joking tone as he closes the door. They carry her back to the inn, and lay her down in Raids bed. "What do we do" asks Winter. "I don't even know what's wrong with her" says Raid. "She...doesn't have the willpower to go on" says Red sadly. "How do you" starts Winter. "It doesn't matter. We need to give her a reason" says Red. "Hold on, she ran into Raid when she passed out. That means she was running from something" says Winter. "Right, we'll check it out. Darling, you stay here with her" says Red as they rush out. Meanwhile, Alyn sits in a bar listening out for good tips about the mayor. "You know, the mayor hasn't been around his place a lot lately. Wonder if he's found a new "hobby" says a drunk man. "I've been meaning to talk to him, but hes never in anymore" says another. "That's the people in power for you. They are only there to make life hard for you, and disappear when you need them" says a third drunk. Meanwhile, Raid sits looking at the little girl for a minute. "You know, believe it or not, I was just like you at one point. I felt like nobody loved me, and nobody ever would. I'm from a very dark place, where bad things happen. Then one day, I met a kind person, and she became my reason to live. Then one day, something very bad happened, and I lost the will to live. For a while there, I never thought I'd find another reason, but strangely enough when I found out people were in danger, protecting them became my new reason, then I made a bunch of friends. You shouldn't give up hope in finding your reason, and even if you do, you don't nessisaraly need one. Just live. Dying sucks, for you, and everyone around you" says Raid. The girl doesn't react. "Yeah, I guess that was pretty cheesy. I'll let you rest now. You deserve a good rest on a comfy bed" says Raid as he lays on the ground and stares up at the ceiling. Red and Winter looks around a bit in the area where they found the girl. A guy with a half bald head and a few missing teeth walks up. "Scuse me ladies, 'ave you seen a small child go by recently? She's got long white'air and-" starts the guy. Winter throws him up against a nearby wall, and Red makes a flame in her hand. "Ok ok! I'll look somewheres else. No need to get violent" says the guy. "Where is your leader" asks Winter. "I-I can't just tell you'at. 'Ed have me head nailed to a wall'e would" says the guy. "Don't worry a pile of ashes doesn't have a head" says Red. "I-I can't. Look-" starts the guy. Red puts the flame up to his face. "I-I don't know! Honestly. I-Im just a new recruit, I only meet'em once. E don't come round much I'ere. Ats all I know" says the guy. "I don't believe you" says Winter. "You're coming with us" says Red. They start dragging the guy back to the inn. Later that night, the group come back looking extremely confused. They see the guy with his hands iced behind his back laying on the ground. "Oh'ello. Nice to meet you folks" says the guy turning his head. "Start talking" says Winter. "I told you what I can, honest. I-I don't'ave much loyalty when it comes to pain, so I would'a told ya, I swear" says the guy. "What's this about" asks Alyn. Winter and Red explain the situation. "Allow me to handle this" says Elora. She rolls the guy over and holds her sword at his privates. "Talk" she says coldly. "Bout what? The weather's nice ain't it" asks the guy. Elora pushes the sword against the guys privates. "Alright! Alright! I'll talk! I don't know who the leader is, be works wif the mayor! It's all I know! Now I'm gonna die. He's gonna send people after me he is. Im's good as dead" says the guy. "Well protect you...random guy" says Alyn. "Oh, pardon me. Name's Loyd it is. Pleasure to meet you folks" says the guy. "Your...weird for a gang member" says Cotton. "I'm new to it, I did it cause they payed good they did. I got to buy food" says Loyd. "You can't buy food" asks Lily. "I ain't got no job. I went to the mayor for help I did, but his guards turned me'way, so I just ate trash scraps for bit" says Loyd. "I could almost feel sorry for you, if you didn't lie to us" says Winter. "I'm sorry, really I am, but I don't want t'die just yet" says the guy. "You better hope the little girl is okay, or you still might" says Red. "What's wrong wif'er" asks the guy. "She was covered in cuts and bruises from head to toe" says Winter. "Well'er caretaker was some guy, real mean that one. I said hi to'em once, and spit in my face'e did. I think I seen'em round the mayor's place couple times" says Loyd. "Can you take us to him" asks Alyn. "No, but if yous got the little girl'e'll come to you" says Loyd. "What can you tell us about him" asks Elora. "Well'es bald for one. E don't wear much for clothes. Just pants and some chains round'is chest. Oh, and'e got this really creepy looking key'e did. Tried to touch it once but-" starts Loyd. "Was it black" Winter asks in fear. "Yeah. Think'e got it from-" starts Loyd. "The mayor" says Winter. "Wow, yous really good at guessing" says Loyd. Everyone's eyes widen. Meanwhile, a man matching Loyd's descrption walks down the road looking around.
Episode 8
The next day, Raid wakes up on the floor, and he and the little girl are face to face. "Good morning" she says with a blank face. "Uh…good morning" says Raid as he's wide eyed. "Yep, I knew it" says the girl with the same facial expression. "Knew what" asks Raid. "Your voice. I heard it in my sleep" she says. "When did-" starts Raid. He has a quick flashback of him talking to the girl. "Oh, right. Are you feeling better now" asks Raid. The girl simply stares him in the eyes with her blank expression. "Uh...whats your name" asks Raid. "You" says the girl. "Yu? I suppose thats a good name" says Raid. "Not like that. It's usually, hey you, do this. Hey you do that" says the girl. "Then-" starts Raid. "The way you say it...it's nice. Yu, I'll be called you" says the girl. "Um, alright. Can I ask you a question You" asks Raid. "What is it" asks Yu. "Could you get off me" asks Raid. The girl simply stares at him for a moment. "What's your name" asks the girl. "It's Raid" says Raid. "Are you a spirit" asks Yu. Raids eyes open wide, but he says nothing. "Your aura, it smells like a spirit, but your body smells like a human" says Yu. "...To tell the truth, I don't really know what I am" says Raid. "Thats understandable. I don't really know if I'm a dragon or a human" says Yu. Yu gets off of Raid, and waits for him to sit up, then sits down on his lap. "Wh-What are you-" starts Raid. "You're comfortable" Yu interuptes. The 2 say nothing for a moment, then Yu tilts her head towards Raid. "Thank you. I wouldn't have survived without you" says Yu. "No problem" says Raid not fully understanding. Yu sniffs the air. "I smell multiple other people here. Where are we" asks Yu. "We're at an inn. It's a place where people pay to sleep. My friends should be up, would you like to meet them" asks Raid. "No" says Yu. "Why not" asks Raid. "You're special. You're nice, but other people aren't. Until I heard your voice, I didn't think anyone was nice. I just want it to stay us 2" says Yu. "Yu, it's true a lot of people are bad. In fact, the number of bad ones grow everyday, but do you think I'd introduce you to anyone I thought would hurt you" asks Raid with a comforting smile. "I don't want too. I only need-" starts Yu. Raid spins her around and looks her in the eyes. "Trust me Yu" says Raid. Yu nods, and a few minutes later, Raid walks out of his room with Yu on his shoulders. He walks into the dinning room where he sees everyone eating breakfast, including Loyd. "About time you woke up. Honestly, learn a since of time" says Elora as she takes a bit of her toast. Raid nervously rubs his head. Crush shoots Raid a look. "Yeah, this is Yu. She finally woke up" says Raid. Crush smiles. "He says hello" says Raid. Yu ducks behind Raid's head a little. "Oh darling! She looks so much like you" says Red. "Does she" asks Raid. "Yeah. You could totally pass for her dad" says Raid. "Aye is that'er? Hey, I'm Loyd. Nice t'meet ya" says Loyd. "He smells bad" says Yu. "I don't actually know him" says Raid. Yu focuses on everyone, until she sees Alyn. "What's the matter child" asks Alyn. "He's scary" says Yu. "Yeah, I guess he kinda is" says Raid. Crush nods. "Yep yep. Hes the probably the 1 of the scariest people I know, but in a good way" says Lily. "If darling says so, then I agree" says Red. "Yeah, I know what you mean. He kinda gives me the creeps" says Winter. Alyn looks insulted. "E might be scary, but Eloras-" starts Loyd. Elora requips a swords by Loyd's throat. "Care to finish that sentence" asks Elora in a scary tone. "No ma'am" says Loyd turning back to his eggs. "Can we go now? These people scare me" says Yu. "Actually, we need to decide what to do with her" says Elora. "What do you mean" asks Raid. "Well, we can't keep her. She's not some lost puppy" says Elora. "But we can't just turn her out into the streets! What about the mean guys" asks Lily. "That's also true" says Alyn. Yu clenches on tight to Raid. "I'm not leaving. I'm staying with Raid" says Yu. "Look, I know you've grown attached but-" starts Elora. "We're about to go into a dangerous fight. We can't get you involved" says Alyn. "I know we can't, but...we can't just leave her" says Raid defensively. Crush looks Raid in the eyes. "I am not being unreasonable! This is a little girl we're talking about" says Raid. Crush shakes his head. "Not our responsibility? It became our responsibility when we saved her life!, When I saved her life" says Raid. "Hold on, it's not like she has a place to go back to. How about we take care of her until we find a safe place" says Winter. "I...Suppose that sounds reasonable" says Elora. "I don't like these people" says Yu. "They're not all bad. It's just a difficult time right now" says Raid. "Well, we'll split into 2 teams. Me, Lily, Elora, Cotton, and Crush will go out and investigate. Raid, Winter, and Red, look out for Yu, and keep an eye on Loyd" says Alyn. The main group walks out. "Raid, I'm hungry" says Yu. "Oh, well I'll make you something" says Raid as he sets her down on the ground and heads for the kitchen. "Hey, Raid" says Yu. Raid turns to her. "Do...you have any kids" asks Yu. "No I don't" says Raid. "Then...would you (mumbles)" asks Yu. "What was that" asks Raid. "Well, you're really nice, so would you mind...taking care of me" Yu asks shyly. "Sure thing" says Raid ignorantly. Yu's face lights up as Raid walks into the kitchen. (Red's inner monologue) "She does look like my darling. Maybe I could be her mother! Then darling will see I'm clearly more suited than that home wrecking ice girl". (Winter's inner monologue) "Maybe if me and Raid take care of the girl together, he might finally see just me". Both of the girls blush. "Hey, this ain't very safe" says Loyd. "What? I'm sure Raid's cooking can't be that bad" says Winter. "No, what if'ose scary guys send people after us? There's only 3 of ya" says Loyd. "Don't worry. We've got you. Not much can take us" says Winter. "If ya say so, but thems some scary people" says Loyd. Yu sniffs the air. "You smell cold, and lonely (points to Winter). And you smell like fire, and sad" says Yu. The girls look at each other stunned. Raid pokes his head out. "Hey I totally forgot to ask you what you wanted. Any favorites" asks Raid. "All I've ever had is bread and water" says Yu. "That's terrible" says Loyd. "I'm not well versed in food. I'll make some eggs" says Raid as he goes back into the kitchen. Yu tugs on Red's sleeve. "Why are you sad" asks Yu. "Im alright, really" says Red. "You're lying. Are you sad because of Raid" asks Yu. "No, darling makes me very happy" says Red. "Then why-" asks Yu. "Come on Yu. I'll buy you something sweet while your waiting on Raid" says Winter. Winter picks up Yu and goes to carry her outside. A man matching Loyd's description walks in. "There'e is" says Loyd ducking under the table. "I'm taking the little girl, the scrawny rat, and just for fun, the hot red head" says the guy. "Not going to happen" says Winter. A single swing of the guys axe sends everyone flying. "Alright men, bring them all. Well all take turns with the red head, but the other one. She's all mine" says the guy. A bunch of guys in cloaks rush in. Then the guy gets an egg to the face. "Who through that" asks the guy angrily. "Me" says Raid as he appears behind the guy. The guy swings around and sends Raid flying through the wall. "I'm going to kill that pest. You guys take care of these guys" says the guy. Meanwhile, Crush is walking and gets slashed in the back. A man with long hair in a ponytail and long claws hanging from his fingers stands there. Elora walks and gets surrounded by black leaves which slash at her everywhere. A woman with long black hair and large breasts stands there drinking sakè. Alyn walks and gets slammed down to the ground by a huge monster with huge muscles and iron armor. Lily and Cotton walk and get slammed to a nearby wall by a man with a top hat and a monocal. "You've got nowhere to run. We've got the S class wizards out around town. Your finished" says the bald guy as he swings at Raid. He misses, but the mere impact from the blow sends Raid crashing into the wall. "I am Anack, and you are going to die" says the guy swinging again. Raid tries to dodge, but again the impact of the swing sends him flying back. "Damn human body. This seriously hurts" says Raid. Crush turns to see the man who slashes him. "Hey cutie, I'm Kilim, and I'm taking you home with me. You'll make Mr Mayor a very happy man" says the guy. He charges at Crush with lightning speed. Elora stands cut up pretty bad. "Tell you what, I really don't wanna fight, and I've got a hangover. You mind pretending like we never met" asks the lady. "Blastphomy! Face me with honor" yells Elora as she draws her sword. "Ahh. Stop with the yelling already. My name's Riya, I'm going to make this quick okay, my buzz is wearing off" she says. "Me, Monark. Me, break you" says the muscular monster as it punches Alyn in the gut, shattering his armor. The man in the monocal bows. "Pardon the informal greeting. Allow me to introduce myself. I'm Heller Van Strumeg, at your service. I'm afraid your going to need to surrender, or this could get nasty for you" says the guy. Raid struggles up on his feet. (Raid's inner monologue) "Hes too fast to attack from behind, and he'd see a frontal assault coming from a mile away. I'm clearly outmatched here, but I have to save Yu and the others. Meanwhile, Loyd uses his magic to turn his fingers into guns and starts shooting at Anacks underlings. "Wall" says a girl with long green hair. A magical barrier appears and shields the underlings from the bullets. "Pierce" yells a girl with short blue hair. A blast of blue energy shoots from her arm and knocks Loyd into the wall. "Who are you people" asks Winter. "I'm Shield" says the girl with long green hair. "And I am Spear. We are artificial life forms created for the soul purpose of serving our master" says the girl with short blue hair. "Is that what kinda life you want? It sounds pretty pathetic to me" says Winter. "It is not our place to question master. The only question we ever ask of him, is what he desires from us" says Shield. "Then your brainless" says Winter as she throws ice shards at Shield. "Wall" says Shield, as a wall protects her. "It is not as though we don't have emotions or thoughts-" says Spear. "It's just we simply must do our masters bidding. He gave us life, and we must obey. It's called loyalty" says Shield. "So you're okay with putting a child through hellish torcher just because you're told too" asks Red as her whole body starts flaming. "Of what is this girl speaking" asks Spear. "She's only trying to poison our minds Spear! We must fulfill our duty" says Shield. "Your torchering a child! Yu hasn't done anything except be born" says Winter. Spear looks at Yu, who's still covered in cuts and bruises. "Don't let them trick you spear! Our master would never do that! They're the monsters who did that to her" says Shield. "Affirmative. I will rescue the little girl" says Spear as she changes forward. "Pierce" she yells as she releases another blast of blue energy. Winter dodges it, and puts Yu down. "Run away Yu. We'll handle these guys. Loyd, get up and go with her" says Winter. Loyd stands up and salutes. "Yes ma'am" says Loyd as he rushes over and he Yu's hand. "Come on girly, wes gots t'go" says Loyd. "Raid! Wheres Raid" asks Yu as she looks around frantically. "He ain't gonna lose, these folks can handle'em" says Loyd. "Who's this Raid" asks Shield. "He's a sweet, and nice, and caring man" says Yu. "New mission aquired. Aquire the being known as Raid" says Spear. "You leave your hands of my darling" says Red as she throws a flaming punch. "Wall" says Shield. "Pierce" says Spear. Red's punch is stopped by the barrier, then she gets blasted back by the blast. Loyd grabs Yu and picks her up. "Time t'go" says Loyd as he starts running away. "No! Let me go! I have to protect Raid" says Yu. "Y'can't do nothin for'em now. Elle be alright, long's he holds out till the others get back" says Loyd. Loyd and Yu gets outside where 3 people stand. One guy has wild orange hair, one guy has an all black body with sharp white hair and red eyes, and the last is a girl with pale skin and blood red lipstick. "See you slave girl. There is no denying who you are. Come back with us, or these "friends" of yours will die" says the one with the black body. "I wouldn't mind seeing them die myself. Especially that white haired boy" says the woman. Yu's eyes widen. "Raid? You can't hurt Raid" says Yu. "Hurt? No, his death will be painless" says the guy with black skin. "Understand, the mayor only wants to save the world. Think, you could be a hero" says the guy with orange hair. "Ain't no way I'm lettin y'take this here little girl! Them girls done put'er in m'care they did" says Loyd stepping in from of Yu. "Then die" says the black skinned guy as he holds out his hand. A black shot flies from it and rips right through Loyd's arm. "Ahhh! Y'gotta run" says Loyd. Yu looks at Loyd with concern. "I ain't ever been a hero before, but I know I can't let them take ya. I feel it m'heart I do" says Loyd. "Appa, why do we need this little girl anyways? She's just a kid" says the orange haired guy. "She is a powerful dragon Slayer. There are 3 celestial spirits around here as well. Bring me them, and their keys" says the black skinned guy. "Icuris, you really are too dense. What the master says goes. If he wants the child, we deliver the child. If he wants spirits, we deliver spirits. If he wants a bloodbath (smiles) we deliver a bloodbath" says the girl with red lips. "Killing anyone won't help, it's so pointless. Look, I'll fight this guy, you guys take the little girl back to the mayor" says Icuris as he jumps down. "NO! Plasma Dragon ROAR" yells Yu. A beam of plasma shoots from her mouth, but Icuris simply steps out of the way. "Whoa, impressive. Why don't you go with these people, I promise not to rough up your friend to bad" says Icuris. "Echo, you know what to do" says Appa. "Right my master" says the girl with red lips. She grabs her head, and Yu falls unconcious. "What'd ya do to'er" asks Loyd. "She's just sleeping, echo can get into the minds of people. The disadvantage is she can't move while doing so" says Icuris. Appa walks up to Yu. "NO" yells Loyd. "Demonic flame" says Icuris. A black and Orange flame shoots out and throws Loyd to the ground with a mighty blast. "Don't get back up. It may seem bad now, but we're saving the world" says Icuris. Appa grabs Yu and walks away with her. Loyd struggles to get up, but goes right back down. "Why does saving the world have to suck so much" asks Icuris. Echo let's go of her head and collapses. "Echo! Don't push yourself to far" says Icuris. "Master ordered me to keep going. I'm setting up a psychic link with the others. Protect me until we aquire the spirits" says Echo. Icuris nods as Echo grabs her head again. Meanwhile, Raid is looking pretty beat. "I...won't...let you...take her" says Raid with his eye swelled shut and blood dripping from his forehead. Anack stops for a minute and scoffs. "Your lucky wimp. You get to sell out some spirits to save your own- (Anack looks Raid in the eyes and laughs) it must be my lucky day. You're coming with me" says Anack. Raid tightly grips his dark blasters and hold them up. "You'll have to kill me first" says Raid. Anack falls to the ground and grabs his head. "Damn! What was that" asks Anack. Shows Alyn standing over the monster. "Strength is wasted on you" says Alyn. "Retreat! We'll get the spirits later" says Icuris over the psychic link. Anack grunts. "Fine. Someone grab Monark and we're gone" says Anack over the link. All the bad guys retreat, and Raid passes out where he stands. When he wakes up, he looks over to see Loyd in worse shape than he is unconcious. Then he looks the other way to see Red and Winter with sorrowful looks in their eyes. "Where...where's Yu" asks Raid. Neither of the girls say anything. Raid tries to stand up, but can't. Alyn walks in. "Your a fool if you think you're going anywhere in that shape" says Alyn. "Gotta...find Yu" says Raid. "And what? You can't even stand, let alone fight. Perhaps we should wait on the S class wizards after all" says Alyn. Raid looks down. "It might not come to that. We've got some S classes if our own" says Winter. "What's your point" asks Alyn. "They'll be tough, but if we do what they did, we can win" says Winter. "What is it they did" asks Alyn. "They engaged the person with the one who they could easily overpower. Crush could have done better, if his opponent wasn't someone that fast" says Winter. "What do we know about our opponents" asks Alyn. "Anack, the one Raid faced, he was Yu's original caretaker. He never used magic, just extremely hard blows from his axe, so we don't know what he can actually do. The girls me and Red faced were called Spear and Shield. The appear to be artificial humans, and they think we're the ones who hurt Yu. Spear is the attacker of the two, she flings some sort of blue energy shot. Shield creates a barrier around whoever she wants. The woman Elora faced off against, I believe she said her name was Riya, she uses black leaves to slice at her opponents, however according to Elora, she has a drinking problem-" starts Winter. "Sounds like my kind of woman" says Alyn. "The man Crush faced off against called himself Kilim, he I extremely agile, and we believe his magic allows him to turn his fingers into the blades he used against Crush. Lily faced off against a man named Heller, according to Lily his magic allows him to redirect things, including attacks. Finally the monster Alyn defeated was called Monark. Other than being physically strong, it isn't all that hard to defeat" says Red. "It's the ones that Loyd mentioned before he passed out that scare me" says Alyn. Winter and Red nod. "Icuris, he apparently used a flame engulfed in darkness" says Winter. "Echo appears to have powerful psychic abilities, though they come at a cost" says Red. "And Appa, used some dark energy attack" says Alyn. A crash is heard from a room over. "That must have been Crush trying to get out of bed again. Red, would you mind" asks Alyn. Red runs out of the room. "Another thing concerns me. Appa knew that we were here. That means he's a celestial wizard, a dragon Slayer or- starts Alyn. "A black key himself" says Raid. Alyn nods. "So, what's the game plan" asks Winter. Raid stays silent for a moment. "We...wait for Fairy Tail. We're too weak to take them, I couldn't-" starts Raid with a balled up fist. "You know, Hiroshi told me something before he left" says Alyn. (Alyns flashback) "You know, this fight isn't going to be easy, that guys got spirit, but it can easily break, but when he feels like hes to weak to go on, when he feels like all of his strength is gone. Tell him…" says Hiroshi (flashback ends) "That if you don't have any strength left today, borrow some from tomorrow. It's a saying that was made by one of Fairy Tails most powerful mages" says Alyn. "Borrow it...from tomorrow" asks Raid. "It means, fight passed your limits. Even when your about done, fight with all you have, and keep going" says Winter. Raid looks down. "We'll let you think about it" says Winter as she and Alyn leave the room.
Episode 9
After a few days, Raid is finally ready to get out of bed. He sneaks out without anyone noticing and walks around town, when suddenly he feels a hand on his shoulder. He turns to see the guy from the restaurant. "Ah, yes I thought it was you. You're the young man who couldn't read. I trust you have been keeping up your studies" asks the guy. As soon as he sees Raid's face, he looks stunned. "Apparently you've been fighting a lot" says the guy. Raid looks disappointed. "If you want to talk, I'm all ears. I'll even buy lunch" says the guy. Raid nods, and the two have lunch. "So, a little girl that trusted you was taken, and you blame yourself. Is that correct" asks the guy. Raid nods. "I can't even get her back. I'm not strong enough" says Raid clenching his fist. "Then you need to get stronger. Strong enough to fight for what you love and want to protect" says the guy. "But how? I don't have time" says Raid. "The strength I mean is strength of will, not of arms. Even the strongest man can be taken down by a strong desire. Find what it is you fight for young man. Look behind the obvious. What makes you want to fight? To save this little girl? These are the questions that will lead you to true strength" says the man. Raid looks up and gives a small smile. "Thanks Mr" says Raid. The guy looks down at his watch. "Ah, look at the time. I must go. If-no, when you save this little girl, I'd like to meet her if you wouldn't mind" says the man as he gets up, puts down money for the food, and walks away. Raid waves him goodbye and then looks down. (Raids internal monologue) "What...what is it I fight for? Why am I even here". Has a quick flashback of the woman in his flashbacks before, then one of everyone hes met in fairy tail. Raid tightens his fist. "I may have come here to save the world, but I fight for the ones I care about now. That includes Yu! I'm coming to save you" says Raid as he stands up and rushes back to the inn. He walks in to see everyone sitting there. "I've made my decision. We're getting Yu back, and we're doing it ourselves. I fight for you guys, and that includes Yu. There's no way I'll lose" says Raid. "This'll be dangerous. Anyone who doesn't want to fight should say so now. There's a good chance you could end up like Loyd, or worse" says Alyn. "I'll fight, to save this little girl, and for darling" says Red. "Count me in, they won't stand a chance next time" says Winter. "For my friends, I'm going to fight" says Lily. "I never back down in the face of adversity" says Elora. Crush nods and cracks his knuckles. Everyone looks at Cotton, who looks a little scared. "It's okay buddy. You can stay here and watch over Loyd" says Raid. Cotton nods. "So, where do we attack" asks Winter. Everyone looks around to see if anyone has an answer. "This is not good. We still don't know where to launch an attack" says Winter. "We've searched the entire town, met every person. No clues to where they are hiding, what their ties are to the dark guild, or what it has to do with the mayor" says Alyn. Crush snaps his fingers and looks Raid in the eyes. "You can't be serious" says Raid with wide eyes. Crush narrows his gaze. "Attacking the mayor's estate is definitely illegal. We could get arrested if we're wrong" says Raid. Crush slams his hand on the table. "...You're right. We have to do this, for Yu" says Raid. Everyone nods in agreement. "We shall take the day to prepare, tomorrow we attack" says Elora. "Hold on, why the wait?! We can go right now" says Raid. Elora walks up, and lightly touches Raid's wound, which makes him wince in pain. "It would be preferable to wait longer, but we cannot afford to wait to long. Besides our injuries, we need supplies, battles items, and a strategy. Attacking now would be like throwing rocks at a wall. It will accomplish nothing, furthermore we risk exposing ourselves even more, the enemy already has the advantage. I'd rather not further it" says Elora. Raid disappointedly nods. "You should makes sure you absolutely want to do this. It could prove to be a fatal encounter. There is no shame in fleeing" says Alyn. Everyone looks at each other. "You already know my answer" says Raid. Crush nods. "I'm with darling" says Red. "It's only fatal if we lose, and I don't plan to lose" says Winter. "I can't abandon my friends! That's not the fairy tail way" says Lily. Alyn and Elora look at each other and nod. "Me and Elora will strategize a battle plan. The rest of you get what you need. Raid, for you that means rest. Your of no use if your body breaks down during the battle" says Alyn. Raid nods and heads to his room. He lays in his bed and stares at the ceiling. "I can't lose someone else I care about. Not again. Not ever again" Raid says to himself. He drifts off to sleep. A little while later, Cotton sheepishly walks into Raid's room. Raid wakes up. "Hey, what's up" asks Raid. "...Im sorry I can't come to the battle with you, I'm just too weak to fight S class enemies" says Cotton. "Don't feel bad. I feel bad enough that the others want to come. It's my fight, but everyone is willing to throw their lives away for me. I still don't get it" says Raid. "That's called family. Family isn't the blood your born with. It's the people you surround yourself with. Families care about one another, they help when they're in need, and they'll even put their lives on the line for you" says Cotton. "I guess I wouldn't know about family" says Raid looking down. "You'll understand eventually. Trust me" says Cotton as he walks out of the room. A few minutes later, Lily walks in. "Hiya Raid" says Lily. "Hey Lily" says Raid. "You know, I don't know why, but I've been thinking about the first day we met" says Lily. Raid remembers he was nude then and turns red. "I knew from the moment I saw you, you had a lot of heart. I don't know what it was about you, but you made me feel confident, like Fairy Tail was going to be alright. And because of you, we met Alyn and Cotton, and we got Crush too. So maybe my family won't fall apart" says Lily with a smile. "Thats nice, but a bit random" says Raid. "It's just something I wanted to get off my chest before tomorrow. I wanted to thank you" says Lily as she walks out. Raid looks at his hand. (Raids internal monologue) "Did I really do all that? I didn't realize I had such an impact". Elora walks in Raid's room. "I wish to speak with you, if I may" says Elora. "Go right ahead" says Raid. "I must be honest, when I first decided to come with you, it was mearly obligation, but seeing your spirit, and your compassion in action, it makes me realize I made the right choice" says Elora. "Spirit and compassion" asks Raid. "You fight every battle with a determination, a purpose, it's a good quality to have. As for compassion, you helped out Cotton when you had no obligation too, the same goes for Yu. You also make Red and Winter happy. As cheap and low as dating two girls is, I don't think I've seen either one of them happier than they are when they're with you" says Elora as she walks out of the room. (Raid's inner monologue) "Huh, I did all that stuff and never realized. I just always acted on impulse. It's not like I was looking to do good things" Raid hears a knock at the door. "Come in" says Raid. Winter walks in the room. "Mind if I have a seat" asks Winter. "Go ahead" says Raid. Winter sits down on Raids bed next to him. "Look, I know you've been feeling really down lately, but that's doesn't seem like the Raid I know" says Winter. "The Raid you know" asks Raid. "The goofy Raid who had trouble walking, who decided to get the know the cold ice princess, who trusted her with his secrets, who wasn't a morning person, and saved the day when friends were in danger. I hate seeing you down like this" says Winter. "Yeah, i guess I haven't been acting much like myself huh" says Raid. Before he can react, Winter gives him a quick Peck on the lips. "As your girlfriend, I'm here when you need to talk K. I really care about you and stuff, and I'd like to see you smiling a lot more again. Until then, I'm here to fight off the sadness" says Winter as she gets up and walks out. Raid grabs his lips. "I...I've been really selfish here lately. My hunt for the black keys has blinded me to those around me. Those I care about" Raid says to himself. Alyn walks in. "Have you given what I said to you much thought" asks Alyn. "Yes, and Yu actually helped me understand something. I'm both human and spirit. I can't ever change that. I want to stay in the human world, but I will never lose my celestial connection" says Raid. Alyn nods. "And what of the other thing" asks Alyn. "I've decided on that too. I'm going to tell everyone I'm a spirit. I'll do it when I think it's right" says Raid. Alyn smiles. "It seems you've matured a little bit. I'm proud of you. Being human has taught you things you could never know as a spirit" says Alyn as he walks away. (Raid's inner monologue) "Yeah, I guess I have learned some things since becoming a human (smiles and has some quick flashbacks of the things hes learned so far) I'm glad I decided to do this". He looks over to see Crush standing in the doorway. "Oh hey pal, whatcha up to" asks Raid. Crush smiles. "Yeah, I've been reminiscing too" says Raid. Crush looks Raid in the eyes. "Yeah, it's been one heck of a ride so far. I'm glad we met Lily that day though. I couldn't imagine what would have happened if we hadn't" says Raid. Crush walks up and puts his hand on Raid's shoulder. "Yeah, sorry for being a downer here lately. But I can't afford to think negatively about tomorrow. We can't lose, we won't lose" says Raid. Crush smiles and pats Raid's back. "Thanks pal. I know your always there for me" says Raid hugging Crush. The two hug for a moment, before Crush looks Raid in the eyes. "Red? I wonder what she wants" says Raid. Crush shrugs his shoulders. "Well, i suppose I should go see what's up" says Raid. He gets up and walks to Red's room. He knocks on the door. "Hey Red, Crush says you wanted to talk to me" says Raid. "Yes, come in and have a seat on the bed darling" says Red. Raid walks in and haves a seat. It's dark so he can't see. "He shouldn't you have a light on" asks Raid. Suddenly, he feels two round, and warms breasts push against his back. "Red now's not the time for-" starts Raid. "Shhh. It's not what you think darling. I'm not forcing you to have intercourse with me, (lights some candles with her magic) I just need you to see something" says Red as she lets go. Raid turns around to see the burn again. Raid remains silent. "I've never wanted you to find out darling, but tomorrow may be the end of one of us, and i couldn't bare keeping this from you. My real name….Is Emilia Tachworth. I come from a noble and powerful family of fire benders, however I wasn't born with the ability to cast magic-" starts Red. "How is that possible? Your an S class wizard" says Raid. Red hangs her head in shame. "When I was a little girl, and my magic still hadn't appeared, rumors flew around that my family was losing it's touch. My father was furious about it, he continuously beat me multiple times a day until I was so close to death I could practically see my grave. I never walked around without being so bruised I looked like I had purple skin-" starts Red. "Th-thats terrible" says Raid in suprisment. Red nods. "One day, my father learned about a ritual. It would give someone powerful fire magic, but it would put them through absolute hell to get it. (Raids eyes widen) He dragged me down to basement by my hair, and chained my arms to the wall, I stood barefoot on a cold concrete floor, not being able to move. He ripped my shirt down and exposed my back, then he started burning me. (Raid fist clench) He burned me 7 times for 7 days. During the third day, I gave up. I had nothing, all I wanted was the pain to stop, then it happened. I had a dream, a dream that a hero would save me, a hero I'd fall in love with and marry. That hero, was you. (Raids eyes widen). "I know it's hard to believe, but I remember your face so perfectly, it was the only thing that kept me going, I wanted nothing more than to meet my prince charming. After the 7th day, the ritual had been completed. The spirit of the flame goddess was within me. My father had a healer tend to my back, but the scar still remained. I hated him for it, and so I refused to use my magic for him. He became increasingly violent then. My mother watched as my father beat me, then he put his hands around my neck, and started choking me. My older brother Sebastian walked in and saw what he was doing, and attacked my father. Which then brought in my younger sister and brother. My father ordered them to attack me and Sebastian. Mika refused, seeing me all bruised and burned. Mako on the other hand, reveled in the fact that he got it cause chaos. He and Sebastian fought, and Mika told me to run. I did. I ran out of the house as fast as I could. For a year, I starved and lived off of the little bit of charity that some folks gave. I took a job at a bar, and that's when I saw her. My sister Mika. She...she was burned, half of her face was burned very badly, as well as most of her left arm. I knew there were more burns, I just couldn't see them. I felt so bad. I abandoned my baby sis to a cruel fate. She said it wasn't my fault, and she never blamed me. After I left, Mako went on a rampage, Sebastian took him down, but my father had him thrown in an asylum. Mika took me to visit him, and the sight was awful. Sebastian was so out of his mind he had to be constrained to a straight jacket. He didn't even recognize us. I felt so alone, so helpless, but Mika told me to find a guild, they would become my new family. I set out, and eventually found Fairy Tail. I never really felt complete though. Not until the day I saw your face, and found my prince charming" says Raid. Raid is clenching his fist. "How could someone do that?! To their daughter? To their sister? It's...it's not right" says Raid. "It's okay darling. Those aren't my family (hugs Raid) You are. You're the only one I need my darling. I'm just sorry that I have such a nasty scar, it's so unattractive-" starts Red. "No, it's fine. It's part of you, and I care about you for who you are" says Raid. "Does that mean...you love me" asks Red. "I-I don't know yet, but I know I could never live without you" says Raid. Red starts crying happy tears as she sqeezes Raid. "I've never told anyone this, so please keep it between us darling" says Red. Raid nods. "...Do you mind if I confess some things to you too" asks Raid. Red backs up and looks him in the eyes. "Darling, there's no need to share anything you're uncomfortable-" starts Red. "No, you shared something very important too you, now it's my turn…I'm a celestial spirit, or was. My gate key was the gate of shadows (pulls out his key) this was my key. (Red looks at the key). I touched a forbidden mirror called the mirror of Humanity, it turns a spirit into a human, and a human into a spirit. The problem is, it only works once. Once you use it, there's no going back. I used it to warn the humans of an incoming invasion of the black key army" says Raid. For a moment, Red does nothing. "I'm sorry, I'm sure you need to think about-" starts Raid. Red slaps Raid. "i guess I deserved that" says Raid. "You idiot, why would you ever think that would change how I feel" asks Red. Raids eyes widen as he sees Red crying. "I love you, not what you are. I don't care what you were, I know what you are now, your my darling, my wonderful, caring darling. That won't ever change. Still, I'm glad you told me. I knew you'd been hiding something" says Red. Raid goes to say something, but hesitates and hugs Red. Winter walks in the room and sees. "W-wait! It's not what It looks like" says Raid. Winter walks over and joins in the hug. "We both love you Raid. Just remember that K" asks Winter. Raid nods. Alyn walks in and whacks the 3 upside the head. "Its late, you should go to bed ALONE" says Alyn. As Winter and Raid walk out, Winter glances back at Red. "I totally stole the first kiss" says Winter. "What?! How dare you" says Red as she goes ro run at Winter, but Alyn shuts the door. "Bedtime. Deal with this stuff tomorrow" says Alyn. Raid goes to his room and stares up at the ceiling. (Raids internal monologue) "Cotton, Lily, Elora, Winter, Alyn, Crush, Red. They all care about me in their own ways, they believe in me. I don't really get this family stuff, but...I can't let anything happen to them. We've been through so much together in the short amount of time I've been a human. I-I think with our bonds, we can win tomorrow. We'll get Yu back, save the town, and head back to Fairy Tail" Raid smiles. The next morning everyone gets up, and Raid meets them outfront. "Alright before we March today I need to come clean. I'm a celestial spirit, I'm from the dark side of the celestial world. My key is called the gate of decay, I touched a magical mirror called the mirror of Humanity, and it turned me into a human. I just thought you should know" says Raid. Crush steps forward and nods. "Also, Crush is a celestial spirit too. His key is the gate of the blackwing" says Raid. "And I am as well. I'm a diamond key, the gate of protection" says Alyn. Elora nods. Thank you for confiding in us" says Elora. "Wow! So cool" says Lily. "Eh, I already knew" says Winter. "My darling told me last night" says Red. Cotton looks around. "Nobody else is a spirit are they" asks Cotton. Everyone shakes their head. "We shall keep your secret" says Elora. "Thank you" says Raid. Everyone but Cotton walks up to Raid. "Alright! Time to march on the mayor" says Raid as the group makes their way to the mayor's estate.