In a land far, far away lies the kingdom of Fiore, a small, peaceful nation of 17 million, and a place filled with Magic found in every home, bought and sold in every marketplace. For most, Magic is merely a tool, a mundane part of everyday life. For some, however, Magic is an art, and they've devoted their lives to its practice. These are the wizards. Banded together into magical guilds, they ply their skills in search of fame and fortune. Many such guilds dot the landscape of Fiore. But there is a certain guild in a certain town that soars high above the rest, one from which countless legends have been born. A guild that will no doubt continue to create legends well into the future. Its name...is Fairy Tail.
Previously, on Fairy Adventure, Gale found out what familiars are made and boy, is it bad! But, that's not the only thing! Lance's evil plan to turn Magnolia's citizens into familiars just might be working! Well, not Lance, but at the same time, Lance? You know what I mean. Anyways, Gale isn't taking it and decided to start a fight with…not Lance? Meanwhile, Mystogan and Lucy had some rotten luck and ended up being catching what these familiars are giving! Ouch! But, Fairy Tail is bound and determined to save their home and nothing will stop them! We hope… Nashi and Gary ran into a little trouble, but it seems Nashi is running from Gary who lost control to his Devil Side! Let's hope Gary snaps out of it soon! Luna, Mary Jane, and Bruno the talking dog found themselves out of Fairy Tail and looking for herbs. Wait… What's Jay doing out here? I guess they weren't going herb-picking after all. Mary Jane led Jay and Luna through the infested streets to their wrecked cathedral instead while Bruno goes to get herbs with…another Mary Jane?! Natsu came home to see his family mainly down for the count and even found Mystogan out of his element. But, knowing Natsu, he's always found a way to save the day! Mary Jane gave Luna pretty emotional pep talk, even if that pep talk led them into the stinky storm sewers. Luckily, they caught up with Igneel…or did they? Mary Jane gave Jay and Luna room to get out while she faces an imposter moron and takes him down for good. Luke brought in another patient when he noticed not just his mother was sick, but Nashi too? And what's this Erza and Porlyusica are whispering about? Looks like the dragon's out of the bag with Gale and Igneel in the cathedral, but don't you worry! Natsu, Gajeel, and Laxus are there to save their sons, even if it means for the Dragon King of Fairy Tail to make his entrance! Luna decides to help along as she makes it to the cathedral. With it surrounded, she might've not been able to get to it on her own, but sh'es never alone! That mysterious presence is always with her! With its help, Luna got to the cathedral when—wait! Gale's about to die! Luna, save him!
No… Please, no…
Luna might've saved Gale, but that doesn't mean they're out of the battlefield quite yet. What's going to happen to everyone back in Magnolia? And, where's Jay?
No… Please, no…
It took Gale a while for him to open his eyes and when he did, he was on the ground and everything was different to him. He found his head was stuck into a tizzy as he groaned and got up. He tried to clear his head of the white spots he saw in his vision, but it was hard.
"Hey…" Gale mumbled. "Hey… Wha…? What happened?" He half-noticed that Fake-Lance was on the ground. He was convulsing and twitching as black static and blue static fought over his body. He shook his head to focus on the girl who stood in-between him and Fake-Lance. She stood as still as a statue, but once everything slid into focus, she was not still. She was shaking. He could hear her sniveling. "Blondie," he whispered. "What…? What are you doing here? What are you—?"
"Please." A sniffle. "Don't go."
Gale was taken back.
"Please." Another sniffle. Two. "D-D-Don't go. Don't leave." She turned her head to look at him.
Gale's mouth opened.
He stared into crying chocolate.
"Don't go," Luna sniveled. "Don't…go…" Her eyes shut as her body lost the will to stand. It all staggered as she fell towards him.
Out of reflex, Gale surged and caught her before she could touch the ground. He dropped to his knees to hold her. She did not wake. She did not stir. She barely breathing. She was barely…alive.
"Blondie," Gale whispered. He was trying to make sense of this. He was trying so hard. "Blondie…" It hit him. It all hit him. His eyes widened as fear took hold of them. "BLONDIE!"
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Maji desu ka SUKA!
•
Donna toki demo POJITIBU de
meccha KIRAKIRA hanasakasou
•
Kitto itsuka wa FAMIRII wo
Shoukai sasete ne
Urusakutte mo yurushite
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Gale nosed his way into her hair and took deep breaths, trying to calm himself down. "Blondie, come on. Wake up! Please, Blondie, I'm not done with you yet," he warned her. He pulled a way to look at her unconscious face. Anger was clear in his eyes, but more so fear than anything. He was about to touch her cheek, but hesitated. Against his judgement, he did so. "Come on, Blondie," he pleaded. "You can't just go and pass out on me after that! You're not Sleeping Beauty! Just wake up! Please!" His head dropped to her neck, nosing his way at the point where her neck met her shoulder. He sniffled a little. "Please, Blondie," he whispered.
Nothing.
Then—
"Hey… That…tickles," came a slur.
Gale reeled back to see Luna stirring. "Blondie?" he murmured.
Luna grunted as she moved her head. Her eyes cracked open and her lips moved into a weak smile. "What's this about 'Sleeping Beauty'?" she tried to joke.
Gale laughed wetly. "You stupid blonde. Couldn't handle being so dramatic so you go and pass out on me," he teased. "No wonder you're single."
Luna chuckled a little. "At least I've had my first kiss," she boasted.
Gale's face dropped. "Run that by me again?"
Luna groaned as she dragged her head away from Gale's hold and tried to sit up on her own. She hissed as she grabbed her head. "Nnngh. Everything hurts," she bellyached.
"Don't change the subject. Who was your first kiss?" Gale demanded to know.
Luna shot him a dry look. "I'm sorry that my pain is a bad subject for you," she muttered.
Gale hmphed as he scooped Luna into his arms. "Your everything is a good subject," he muttered back into her hair. "But, we're coming back to that first kiss thing once this shit is over."
Luna rolled her eyes. "Yes, Papa." She tried to look around at the destroyed shadow of a cathedral. Her eyes went to the convulsing Lance and confusion made her eyes open more. "What happened here? What's wrong with Lance?" She turned back to Gale for answers. "What's going on? Where's Igneel?" she probed.
"Yeesh. So many questions," Gale complained. "Can't a guy catch a break? You did faint after all. Take it easy."
"I didn't mean to faint! What's wrong with my questions?!"
Gale scooped Luna into his arms and picked her up like a groom carrying his bride. He stood and walked from the altar. "Well, fine. Let's satisfy the princess' need to know everything," he grumbled.
Luna frowned. "Hey. No need to be mean. I came here to save you guys."
"You should've just stayed back where you belong," came harsh words.
Luna's response to that was wide eyes. But, her eyes drifted to her lap when any anger that should have been there was the feeling of being chastised.
Gale carried Luna over to the crumbled barrier he had once used on himself and Igneel. It was a barrier still and Igneel lay there, unconscious. Luna's eyes saddened at the state of her brother.
Igneel… What happened to you?
Gale set Luna down to her brother. Luna was quick to haul herself to Igneel's side. He did not look like he was in a painful unconscious state, but the abrasion on his stomach looked flinch-worthy. She looked heavily worried for her brother as she brushed away his dirtied hair from his forehead. She could barely stand to look at his wounded body.
Iggy… What happened to my big brother?
"Did Lance do this?" Luna asked softly.
"Yes, but no," Gale answered, vague. "The demon possessed Lance. Lance has no control over his actions right now, and, when he does, it's limited."
Luna's eyes softened. "I see," was all she could whisper. Her thoughts were too focused on Igneel.
I wish I could've been here sooner. I couldn't protect him.
"Why the Hell did you come here?" came a low growl.
Luna looked up from Igneel to look at Gale. He bore her a ruby glare that spoke volumes.
"Why are you here?" Gale asked again. "Why did you think it would be a good idea to step into the lion's den?"
Luna swallowed thickly, but could not meet him in the eye. "I have people I want to protect," she admitted quietly. "I couldn't just leave them behind. Any of you."
"So, you decide to play hero? Is that it? Our lives are just a game to you so you can play the epic heroine?"
Luna flinched. "No," she insisted. "I think of your lives as more important than my own—"
BANG.
Luna flinched again and made an audible squeak of terror.
Gale's hand had punched a dent into the marble.
He panted.
"Don't – ever – say that," he snarled at her. His hand shot up to grab her by the shoulders and shook her.
Luna looked up to see Gale glowering at her. Fearful chocolate connected with glinting ruby.
"Don't you ever say that," Gale repeated. "Our lives aren't more important than yours, got it? It's your life that's more important than ours—than mine."
"Gale," Luna whispered.
"You have people to protect? Well, so do I," Gale snapped at her. "And you're one of them and I'm going to protect you with my life without question."
Luna tried to shake her head. "Gale, please—"
"Do you know how much pain I would feel if I lose you?" Gale asked her. "Do you?"
Luna's bottom lip quivered, so she bit it. She shook her head. "I-I just thought tha—"
"'Thought' what? You could swoop in here and be a martyr?" Gale snarled. "You aren't meant to be a sacrifice. You're meant to be protected." He looked around the cathedral and stood up. "Now, come on. We need to get both of you out of here."
Luna looked at him with confused eyes. "But…what about you?"
Gale gave her a cold look. "I'm fine on my own," he explained. "Dragqueen needs medical attention and you need to be somewhere where its safe. I can handle a demon on my own."
"But, you can't," Luna blurted. She seemed surprised at her words, but did not have time to hesitate now. "Gale, please. I'm not going to leave you here! Let's all go home together!"
"You know I can't do that," Gale retorted. "Someone needs to keep an eye on the demon. He might be stupid, but he's powerful. He gets out of this cathedral, we're all screwed."
"But… But…" Luna tried hard to protest. Her eyes lowered to Igneel. He was breathing, but just barely.
I know Igneel needs help, but… I can't just leave Gale here. It's not fair. I'm choosing between two people I care about.
Luna found her eyes watering.
It's not fair.
"Hey," came a murmur. Gale kneeled in front of Luna with his eyes intensely soft. "Look at me, Blondie." It was not a harsh command, but a command nonetheless.
Luna could not as she sniffled. She rubbed her nose with her arm. "I'm sorry," she apologized in a wobbly tone. "I just… I don't want to choose between you two. I know Igneel needs help, but I can't just leave you."
"Yes, you can," Gale soothed. His hand—his fingerless glove was torn and dirty, but he cared not—lifted to caress her cheek and she leaned into his touch. "You're crazy stupid for coming here, but more crazy brave than anything," he told her. "Don't think of it as leaving me here. You're helping your brother, your blood family." He gave her a lazy smirk of fangs. "I'm just some temperamental dragon in this fairytale, princess. Worrying over a life like mine isn't written in the stories. It isn't worth protecting."
"You're wrong." Sad chocolate connected with soft ruby. "Every life is worth protecting," she told him. "Igneel is my family. He's my big brother. I love him. But, that doesn't mean I don't care about you too. You're my dragon."
DRIP.
A tear fell down Luna's cheek.
DROP.
"You're not the bad guy to me, Gale. I want to protect you, okay?" Luna sniffled as more tears ran down her face. She gave a sharp inhale that was a mixture of a sniffle and a squeak. "I don't want either of you to die. Please, just come home with us," she cried. "You don't have to fight anymore. We can get help, I promise! Just please!" She surged forward as her head went to Gale's chest. Her hands latched onto his shirt as though trying to make him stay with her. "Don't fight anymore. Let's go home," she begged.
Gale sighed as his arms automatically comforted her. He leaned down his head so his nose buried itself in her hair. "Don't cry, Blondie. I hate it when you do. Makes your skin all red," he murmured.
She only cried harder.
Gale closed his eyes. "I can't let him leave the cathedral. I have to stay here. I won't rest until we get Lance back," he informed her. "You have to do the right thing and move Igneel. He needs to be seen by Aunt Wen or Granny, you got me? I promise when this is all-over, we're going to do what Fairy Tail does and party until four in the morning. I won't even make fun of you for eating too much or anything, okay?"
Luna sobbed.
"Say something, Blondie," Gale pleaded. "Tell me you're okay with this."
Luna only shook her head into Gale's chest, tightening her grip on him.
Gale stroked Luna's hair. His eyes opened to flicker up. He watched as black and blue lightning tangled with each other. Fake-Lance convulsed as the two types of lightning hit each other, hissing and spitting and clawing. It was as though Lance and the demon were trying to gain control over the body.
I don't have a lot of time until a winner is sorted out. I have to get them out of here before that happens. But, her tears… They won't stop. I can't just leave her so upset, but… If it means I can protect her…then I have no choice.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Fairy Adventure 017
Internal Strife – Enter Forneus, the Sea Serpent
時計が時を刻んでいる！あまりにも遅くなる前に蛇を吐く！
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
After a while, Gale shifted. "Blondie," he cooed, "you have to let go. You have to get out of here."
"Please, just come home," Luna sobbed. "Please, Gale."
"Blondie, let go," Gale coaxed. "You have to go."
Luna tightened her grip even more until her fingers began to let go and fell from his shirt. She lifted her head just as Gale did. The two shared a look. Gentle ruby could not look away from tearful chocolate.
"Once Igneel's healed, I'm coming back," Luna promised. "I'll fight with you."
"It's better if you don't," Gale dissuaded. He thumbed away her leftover tears and mustered a calm smile. "We're going to be just fine. Don't go doubting me now. Dragons have a nose for this sort of thing."
Luna sniffled and shook her head. "It's just… It's just…" Her hands grabbed onto Gale's shirt and pulled him closer.
Time slowed for Gale as his eyes widened.
Luna's eyes fell closed as she craned her neck. And her lips moved to kiss his cheek.
And Gale fell into shock.
Time, Igneel, the demon, Lance, the fate of Fairy Tail—it all fell from existence in his mind. He was trying to understand (trying and failing) what was happening.
Luna was…kissing his cheek?
Luna, eventually, pulled away from Gale and her eyes drifted open. The two locked in their stare as warm blushes coated their cheeks. Gale found himself at a loss at what to say to her. His teasing and joking insults were gone. He was speechless.
Luna's eyes flickered away from him, trying to look anywhere else. "You told me heroes get a kiss, right?" she reminded. "W-W-W-Well, you're my hero, Gale, s-s-so… Well, I…" Her cheeks darkened as she finally met his stare squarely. She puffed a cheek angrily at his lack of response. "Don't just sit there," she barked at him.
Gale blinked. "Blondie…" he whispered. "I…" Then, he studied her. He really studied her. He studied her eyes.
There's fear in her eyes. And anxiety. She's worried about me, but…as a friend. She's not ready…to hear what I have to say.
Gale's head lowered and shadows cast onto his face, shielding his eyes. A small sound came from him.
Luna leaned forward. "What? What was that?"
The sound came again. And again. Until Gale's head whipped up for all to see him howling in laughter, blush gone. "Oh, my God, Blondie, you're so gullible!" he guffawed. "Geez, I've never met a chick blonder than you, princess! You're such an idiot!"
Luna felt steam pour out of her ears as a tick mark appeared on her forehead. Her eyebrows twitched. "So, I'm an idiot, am I?" Her eyes glinted as she raised a hand to smack him. "Who you calling 'idiot', you big jerk?!" She tried to smack him, but Gale stopped her hand in mid-motion with a smirk hanging on his lips.
"Gonna have to try harder than that to land a hit on this dragon, princess," he teased.
Luna hmphed as she turned away from him. "Like you're even worth the trouble anymore," she sniffed.
"Aw, come on, principessa, don't say that," Gale laughed. "I guess a little, blonde princess like you must think I'm worth a damn if she gives the badass dragon a kiss."
Luna ripped her hand away from him and crossed her arms. "Shut up. It was a kiss on the cheek. It hardly meant anything. Besides"—she looked away slyly—"my first kiss was much better."
Gale's laughing stopped as envy and annoyance set in. "Who was your first kiss, anyways?" he demanded.
"Not telling," Luna huffed snidely.
"Tell me!"
"No way!"
"Tell me!"
"Uh-uh! I don't have to tell you anything!"
In the midst of their arguing, Igneel found himself stirring at the commotion.
Gale growled at Luna. "Dammit, Blondie, quit being stubborn and tell me who the Hell the jerk is!"
"He wasn't a jerk!" Luna argued. She sighed happily as she remembered it all. "He was so nice and gentle…"
Gale wanted to shake her. "Just give me a friggen name, woman!"
Luna had her hands on her cheeks as she went side-to-side, giggling. "Oh, Gale, he was so sweet! I hope I can get a kiss from him again!"
"Would you just give me a name already?!"
A low groan. "Ugh… Can you two not fight right now?" came a rasp.
Gale and Luna stopped their antics to see Igneel shifting underneath them. His eyes shut even more as his fingers twitched. His eyes cracked open, but did not open all the way. "Nnngh… I feel like MJ threw me out the window again," he groaned.
Luna threw herself at her brother in sheer relief. "Iggy!" she gasped. She hugged him. "Oh, you're okay! Thank God! You worried us!"
Igneel groaned even more and Gale was quick to pull Luna away. "I think our little lightning rod doesn't want a hug just yet," Gale told Luna.
Luna realized her mistake and was quick to apologize. "I'm sorry! I'm so sorry, Igneel! I didn't think—!"
Igneel chuckled, then coughed. "It's okay, Lu. I'm happy I'm back too," he assured. "Good thing I am, too. MJ owes me a week in her comfy bed after this Hell."
Luna remembered something. "Oh, yeah. She wants to make sure you survive because she's going to beat you up once this is over," she recalled.
Igneel let out a breath. "That sounds like her," he supposed. "I'd rather have MJ beat me up than get hit with another lightning bolt."
"Same here," Gale agreed. "Nice to see you alive and all, dude, but seeing you have your ass handed to you by the Devil Woman would make my day."
"Asshole," Igneel coughed. "What's going on, anyways? What happened?"
Luna opened her mouth, but Gale beat her to it. "Nothing. Blondie, here, is taking you to get healed," he informed. "You look like shit, man. You need to see Aunt Wen or Granny."
"Still look better than you," Igneel retorted. He coughed again. "But, whatever." His eyes moved to Gale. "What about you?"
"My job ain't over till the fat demon sings," Gale joked. "I'll be staying here. I could use a good fight after watching over your sorry ass."
"Stay here?" Igneel founded his eyes sharpening. "That's a suicide mission, bro. Don't do this." He was interrupted with a fit of coughing. "We need to get out of here. All of us."
Gale shook his head. "You two are leaving. Blondie-girl can get you both back to safety." He sounded firm in his decision, stubbornly firm. "Don't fight me on this. Just get out of here while you still can."
"Hey… What's this I hear about leaving?" came a slow drawl.
Luna and Gale whipped their heads up to the altar. The possessed Lance pushed himself to sit up and looked like he could pass out at any minute. He groaned as he put a hand on his head.
"Ugh. This guy is becoming a pain in my tail," Possessed-Lance grumbled. "He's got to stop trying to fight me."
Gale positioned himself in front of Luna. "Get out of here," he whispered to her. "I can deal with him for a while. But, you two leave."
Luna looked conflicted at the order. "But, Gale—"
"You want to get away from me so soon?" Possessed-Lance mock-pouted. "Wow. My pets tell me my personality is charming." He pushed himself to stand and cracked his neck. "Anyways, sorry to tell you this, but you can't leave me or this cathedral without my say so."
Gale narrowed his eyes. "The Hell is that supposed to mean?"
"Gale…" came Luna's horrified breath. "You're shackled here."
Gale looked down at his legs to see them bare. He did not get it. "What do you mean?"
Possessed-Lance peered past Gale to see Luna and put on a winning smile. "Well, hello. I've heard so much about you, Luna," he told her. "Zagan said you would be consort material with time." His smile broadened. "He was definitely right."
Gale growled as he hid Luna behind him. "You don't have the right to look at her. Now, tell me: why can't I leave?"
"The princess you're hiding just told you, dear dragon," Possessed-Lance explained. "You think I'd be stupid enough to not have a back-up plan to keep two humans like you here?" He laughed. "The second I brought you in here, it was all on my terms. And you two can't leave without it being on my terms."
"He's not lying," Luna whispered to Gale. "I didn't notice until now. You and Igneel both have shackles on your ankles." She looked at Gale's leg to see a black shackle on it.
What do we do? I can't leave them here. But, if they're stuck here… How are we going to escape?
Gale stood up, surprising Luna. He looked at Possessed-Lance. "Then, I guess it's round four for me," he decided.
"Gale," Igneel tried to warn, "don't—"
"Blondie, you think you can make sure your idiot brother stays alive for me?"
Luna saddened at that and nodded. "Yes," she whispered. "But… Gale—"
"Thank you," Gale appreciated. He held out his hand and his death scythe appeared. He spun it around. "Stay safe for me, Blondie. That's all I can ask."
The marble surrounding Luna and Igneel rose into a protective barrier.
Luna shook her head. "Don't go," she pleaded.
Gale looked over his shoulder just to give her a smirk. "See ya later, principessa."
The barrier of marble folded over to create a dome barricade. There was a small hole at the top for air, but nothing more.
This'll keep them safe, Gale thought. I can't let them get hurt.
Possessed-Lance flinched as a spark of blue lightning flicked him. "Stupid human," he muttered. "He's not getting his body back."
Gale came to a realization.
Lance must be fighting hard to win back his body and it's tiring out the demon. He can't fight me and Lance at the same time. He'll be forced out of Lance's body.
Gale shouted, "Lance, if you can hear me, do everything you can to fight back! If we can fight him together, we can stand more of a chance!"
Possessed-Lance chuckled. "Like he can hear you," he tossed. "It's just you and me, little dragon." He clapped his hands together. As he pulled them apart, black lightning toyed in-between his hands like Cat's cradle. The black lightning from his hands spread and spread until his body was surrounded in an electrical sphere. The lines of lightning changed from a sphere to an animal Gale had never seen before. It looked like a sea serpent, but, then again, it did not.
Possessed-Lance cackled as the serpentine monster let out a roar. "Come at me with everything you've got!" And the electric serpent surged forward with its jaws parted.
Gale tensed his grip on his death scythe.
As long as I'm protecting the ones I love, I've got nothing to fear.
And Gale surged forward with his own roar.
Fake-Igneel stumbled back and into another hall onto his butt. He was covered in gashes with black blood oozing from his skin. He gave a monkey-like snicker as he looked as his wounds. "Feisty," he purred. "You're going to die sweetly once I keep you for a while."
A growl. "You're a sick, little pervert. Perverts like you piss me off."
Mary Jane stepped from the shadows of storm sewers with a furious aura around her. Her modular spear coiled around her, broken into several parts with a chain connecting them. The spearhead was angled at Fake-Igneel and glinted with splatters of black blood. She kept her eyes locked on Fake-Igneel. "It's pathetic to think you mimicked him of all morons. I mean, seriously? You look stupid." She whipped the spearhead forward to pierce Fake-Igneel. He jumped out of the way with monkey squawks falling from his lips.
Fake-Igneel grinned at Mary Jane. "I like this look. It's agile. But, if you don't like it, I could always—" His words were cut off when chains coiled around him. He fell to the ground in a yelp and was dragged towards Mary Jane.
Mary Jane looked down upon Fake-Igneel with a sneer on her face. "Things like you disgust me. Being something you're not?" Her spearhead lowered until it hovered over Fake-Igneel's heart. "They say Transformation Magic is just a sign of jealousy," she said. "Seems like you trying to be that little moron makes you envious of him."
Fake-Igneel snickered once again. "You're too cute, little female. What are you going to do, kill me? You'd kill someone who looked like your—"
His words stopped.
His grin was frozen.
His eyes widened.
The spearhead had pierced his chest.
Fake-Igneel looked at Mary Jane through eyes that slid out of focus with darkness pulsing at the edges. "You… You really did it," he murmured. "You…killed me." Black particles at from the stab wound and outwards. The flecks went into the air before disappearing.
Mary jane did not lose the cold look on her face. "Doesn't matter. Anyone who finds joy in deceiving others doesn't deserve to live in my eyes." Her words were freezing. They held no room for empathy. "Human or not, none of that matters. Igneel may be a constant annoyance in my life, but he doesn't deserve a thing like you making a mockery of him. So, now?" She shoved the spearhead even more into Fake-Igneel's chest. "You die."
Fake-Igneel found his body rapidly disappearing. His legs were beginning to go and as were his fingers and arms. He looked at Mary Jane with his monkey smile as his neck broke down into particles. "Cold-hearted and powerful. If only I had the chance to keep you as my own pet," he lamented. "Killing you, breaking your soul—it would've been so delicious." His face dispersed into black particles and it was then Fake-Igneel was gone.
Mary Jane staggered as her modular spear disappeared. She landed onto her knees and panted. "Oh, God, I thought I was going to pass out," she wheezed. "If I didn't kill him when I did, I don't think I'd be seeing the surface anytime soon."
But, forget that. We've got a bigger problem on our hands. If those freak things can transform, we don't know who we can trust anymore. If word gets out to the rest of Fiore… I can just imagine the mass hysteria. Trust will break easy. People will become paranoid. And the Council and the guard… The Council would probably hold some sort of inquisition to sort out people from those cretins and even that won't satisfy them.
Mary Jane swallowed as she looked at the ground. "Master needs to hear about this," she decided. She grunted as she pushed herself up and back to her feet. She winced as she took steps away from her battlefield and tried walking back. It was a challenge to walk, but she pushed through the pain.
I have to get to her. I have to…
Mary Jane staggered as she fell to the ground. Her headphones popped out of her ears and her Sound Pod clattered away from her. She lay on the floor in a trembling mess, struggling to get up.
Oh, dammit. Come on, stupid body, work. You're my body. You have to get up. Stop being weak.
Mary Jane managed to get one hand to push her chest off the ground, but her arm shook so much, she fell back to the ground. She let out a terse breath. "Dammit," she sighed. "Just what I need. My body completely giving up on me in my time of need. Pisses me off." She closed her eyes.
Think, Mary Jane, think. Move it.
She tried to, but it was no use. Her body gave up on her. It was her mind that was her only company. She let out a sigh as she lay on the ground.
I can only wait for someone now. If it's another familiar, I stand no chance.
Her eyes closed.
Not like it matters. I did my job and got her there. Luna… I hope you're stronger than me.
KER-PLUNK. KER-PLUNK.
The clatter of feet was distant, but still there.
So, this is it, huh? Could be the cavalry or my killer. My body's so beat, I can't even sense which is which.
KER-PLUNK. KER-PLUNK. KER-PLUNK.
Mary Jane waited in silence as the footsteps came closer and closer to her.
They stopped.
"So," Mary Jane started, "are you here to help me? Or hurt me?"
Silence.
"I'm here to bring you home, Mary Jane."
Mary Jane's eyes opened to see her mother hovering over her. Her cerulean eyes were soft in affection and worry for her daughter. "Mom," Mary Jane rasped. "I thought you were downstairs at the guild?"
"I was," Mira informed, "until Bruno came back with the herbs on his own and said you and Luna went away."
"Sounds like him," Mary Jane sighed. "He's always honest."
Mira stooped to Mary Jane's level and brushed her hair with her fingers. "It wasn't easy to find you. Erza is furious about you and Luna taking a civilian into danger and endangering yourselves," she informed.
"I figured," Mary Jane muttered. "But, wasn't like we had a choice. We all know Luna's the only chance of us winning against a demon."
"And what if she's not?" Mira theorized. "What if the power she displayed was just a fluke? We don't know enough about her Magic. That, and she isn't at the level to face something so strong on her own."
"She might not be, physically, but I just… There's something about her that makes me believe she can do it," Mary Jane said. While her words left little of reassurance, they were firm in her belief. "I don't know what it is, but I know it's her."
Mira smiled a little. "It's rare for you to have so much faith in one person," she teased. "Don't tell me you're going soft."
Mary Jane snorted. "This isn't me being anything. I just know Luna is badass, even if she doesn't think it herself."
"She's certainly stronger than she gives herself credit for," Mira agreed. She began helping Mary Jane sit up. "We need to get you back to the guild. Erza's recalling Mages on the streets home."
Mary Jane looked surprised at that. "Why? What's going on?"
"Can you stand?" Mira asked first. At Mary Jane's uneasy look, Mira helped her daughter to her feet. It was no easy task, but they did it and Mary Jane heavily relied on her mother. Mira replied to the question. "We're finding out there's a sickness going on that can turn people into familiars."
Mary Jane held back her shock as she tried to walk. "Huh. How's everyone doing?"
"Not too well," Mira informed, sounding sad. "More than three-fourths of the guild has gotten sick and a third of them are worse than the rest. Mystogan and Gary have been worse off than anyone else. Mystogan is trying as hard as he can to fight, but he's losing terribly. And Gary…" She heaved a sigh. "Nashi seemed traumatized when she brought him in. He was unconscious at the time, and she was… Oh, goodness, she was so upset. Her body was bloody and her leg was torn…" She shook her head. "I can only imagine what she's going through."
Mary Jane looked at Mira with an arched eyebrow. "You don't think he—?"
"I don't know what to think," Mira interjected. "But, I know Nashi doesn't want to talk about it, so I won't press her."
Mary Jane was left deep in thought.
It would make sense for this to trigger Gary's Devil. Even if his Devil hasn't killed, it doesn't mean Black Magic won't influence it. My guess is people who use branches of Black Magic are being affected more so than others, but I can't know for sure yet. If I'm right, then Uncle Bixslow and the twins should be in a worse state. But, what about Mom?
She observed her mother.
She looks fine enough, but it could just be a façade. Then again…her skin does look paler. And her eyes look tired. I'm guessing she isn't in as bad of a state because she hasn't been fighting. If she stays out here anymore, she might get worse. What doesn't make sense is Mystogan? He uses Heavenly Body Magic. It should act like an immune system to him unless…
Something occurred to her.
Maybe he was hurt by a familiar. That could affect him. And with familiars able to transform into us… Oh, no… I have to get this to Aunt Erza before we all end up being a demon's bitch.
Magnolia Town's surroundings were eerily quiet. There were no cries of panic. There were no shouts of battle. There was utter silence.
Guards slipped into their posts around Magnolia. They hid themselves in trees and behind bushes with the only thing connecting them their Communications Lacrima (They used JTRL—Joint Tactical Radio Lacrima). Binoculars scoped out the lay of the land. One man crouched in a tree and looked into the distance with his binoculars. He surveyed slowly, not wanting to miss a thing.
A glint of green caught his attention.
He turned his head to see a teleportation warp hole opening from the distance. The first one to step out from the warp was a hulking man that looked like he could confront a platoon of guards and defeat them all without any help. The guard watching pulled his binoculars away from eyes to go to his man-pack and radio. He did what was necessary to get a hold of his superior, holding the radio to his ear.
"Captain," he called, "the AMU has touched down with Captain Armstrong at the forefront."
A pause.
"I see then," came a drawl. "Blue squad, keep to northwest. Red, Yellow, and Green fan out and surround all sides, but do not engage unless on my command. Violet, work on jamming all communications and send word to the mayor of our guests."
A resounding chorus of "Yes, Captain" came through the com-link.
°•°•°•°
A gloved hand gave the radio back to a private and went back to her sword's grip. "So, this is where we meet again, baby brother," came a sultry murmur. "I can't say I ever wished to meet you again."
A woman stood before her men and their horses. Her skin was a rich chocolate with not a wrinkle or speck of acne on her. Her hair was a deep black pulled back into a high and thick ponytail going to her mid-back with locks of hair framing her face. Her eyes were a mesmerizing hazel and her lips a sweet auburn (even if the words coming out of her mouth were never sweet). She wore the military captain hat with the symbol of the Fiore Guard on the center. Her uniform as a Fiore Guard Captain was nothing special and nothing flattering. The only thing that was flattering were the boots she was allowed to wear, high-heeled and went to her mid-thigh. From there, she wore black shorts. The top of her uniform was her required jacket with her badges and chains attached to it and the symbol branch she came from on her shoulder. An overcoat hung loose on her shoulders, but her arms were in front of her with her gloved hands keeping her sword to the ground and in place.
⌜WISTERIA FIRST GUARD DIVISION
Name: Brika Sterling-Armstrong
Age: 36
Occupation: Captain
Ability: Master Swordsmanship
Likes: winter Dislikes: Mages
Special Note: Captain Armstrong may be one of the only female captains, but she is tougher than any man out there! ⌟
"Not a day goes by I haven't wished I could've slaughtered you myself," Brika murmured. "You became one of them. A traitor to this family, to this bloodline." She could see him approach in the distance, him and his men riding on motorcycles. Her eyes narrowed as her lips drew into an emotionless frown.
I won't let you disgrace our bloodline anymore, baby brother.
The motorcycles and men came close only to realize they were not alone on their path. They slowed to a stop as their leader raised up a fist. The men got off their bicycles as their leader walked forward to greet Brika with a blinding smile.
"Big sis!" he greeted enthusiastically with a booming laugh. "I haven't seen you in so long!" He had a bit lighter skin than his sister and was taller and broader than her as well. He wore his riding gloves and the mandatory knight jacket, but wore no shirt underneath. His pants were tucked into his boots and he had a five o'clock shadow that did wonders to his angular jaw. He stopped in front of Brika and looked down at her eagerly. "Wow, you've really grown. I can't believe it's been so long!"
⌜ANTI-MAGIC THIRD UNIT
Name: Angelo Sterling
Age: 26
Occupation: Captain
Magic: Boxing Magic
Likes: tea Dislikes: cats
Special Note: Angelo is much more than a man with muscle! He happens to be one of the top fighters in Ishgar! ⌟
Angelo whistled as he looked at Brika's crew. "Wow. So, they sent you out here too, huh? Funny we'd see each other, but no time like the present," he said breezily. "I was hoping I'd see you." His eyes softened as he looked down at his big sister. "I've really missed you, Bree."
"I can't say I ever missed you," Brika said coolly.
Angel chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "You were always so straight to the point," he remembered. "You haven't really been home. Mom and Dad are worried about you."
"My mother died, Captain Sterling," came a harsh reminder. "And my father has long-since been dead to me."
Angelo faltered at that. "I see then…" He noticed the ring on Brika's glove and smiled. "You're married," he noted. "Oh, wow! I didn't know you were. Who's the lucky guy? Do you have any kids?"
Brika gripped her sword. "You will not step any further from this point, Captain Sterling," she announced.
Angelo raised an eyebrow. "You and I both have orders to investigate this case, Bree."
"There has been a change of plans," Brika said. She lifted her chin and she saw her men slipping into position. "Neither of us will be going into that town. Understand, Captain?"
Angelo shook his head. "I have orders, Bree," he warned.
"And, so do I. If you'd like to go into that town"—Brika was fast in lifting her sword and holding it to Angelo's throat—"you will have to go through me and my men."
On cue, the men came from their positions with their guns and swords in place. Angelo's men raised their own magical swords in response and glared at the guards.
Angelo looked at Brika in slight fear. "Come on, Bree. We're on the same side here."
"We have never been when you chose the life of a Magic-user," Brika said coldly. She did not flinch whatsoever, but Angelo did.
"I'm not going to fight my own sister, Bree," Angelo said firmly. "We're family."
Brika took away her sword to spin around with her elbow jutted out. "If you won't fight, then fine, Magus!" And as her elbow soared into Angelo's gut, thus began the battle between the Fiore Guard and the knights of the Magic Council.
In Mercurius, the castle was in a state of peace. The gardeners tended to the gardens and waved as a tourist group was led through the lush greenery with their guide giving explanation. Maids and butlers alike tended to making sure the castle was always in top form and tended to officials who stayed at the castle to work. The kitchen was bustling for dinnertime that was coming just around the corner.
Queen Hisui was in her office. The office had a lot of unnecessary space, but it was beautiful nonetheless. She had her personal collection of books that dealt with the kingdom and maps and charts filled her room as well as artifacts and heirlooms and remembrances from when her family was whole. Now, the queen did not look a day over twenty-six, mind you, with only a few wrinkles. Her jade hair was let down in its waves and her emerald eyes were hiding behind her reading classes as she scanned a document and wrote notes in a notebook.
⌜ROYAL FAMILY OF FIORE
Name: Hisui Fiore
Occupation: Queen of Fiore
Magic: Celestial Spirit Magic
Likes: horseback-riding Dislikes: spiders
Special Note: Queen Hisui doesn't need a king to rule her kingdom!⌟
Hisui put down her pen and sighed.
These documents the parliament send me are becoming more and more ridiculous. And I still have to think about the proposal the king of Bosco gave me, have dinner with ambassadors from the Valchestria Continent, host the princess of Stella and the new duke of Veronica, and then there's greeting the team from Pergrande…
She stretched.
Being queen was never an easy task. But, we've improved relations with Bosco, managed to get Fiore back on track, and we were able to convince the Magic Council to accept our terms.
She brought her hands down slowly.
Father… Mother… Are you proud of me?
The office Communications Lacrima rang and Hisui routinely picked it up to answer. "Good afternoon, this is Hisui speaking," she greeted.
A deep voice greeted her, familiar. "Good afternoon, Your Majesty."
"Lord Magic-Speaker and Councilman Hyberion, this is a pleasant surprise," Hisui said diplomatically.
"I'm sure it is," Draculos said with twinge of amusement. "No need for the titles, Your Majesty. You know better than that."
Hisui smiled a little. "Then, you can drop the formalities yourself, Draculos."
"Fair enough," Draculos supposed. "Besides that, there are matters I would like to discuss with you."
"Please, go on."
A two-beat pause. "I should inform you in not just how much trouble Magnolia Town is in, but also your goddaughter."
Hisui sharpened at that. "What do you mean?"
"I ask you to meet me personally for a sit-down discussion of private matters that could easily be eavesdropped," Draculos requested lowly. "But, in the meantime, I tell you this: enemies worse than before are in Magnolia Town and the fairies fight them once again."
And the call was dropped.
Hisui set down the receiver as her mind went deep into contemplation.
'Enemies worse than before'… What does that mean? It has to do with Magnolia and Fairy Tail, but…
Her eyes narrowed.
Unless…
Hisui pushed herself from her desk and grabbed her shawl from her seat, throwing it on. She picked up her Communications Lacrima and dialed a number.
An elegant voice picked up the call. "Your Majesty, how may I serve you?"
"Get me the fastest way to Magnolia," Hisui commanded. "There's a guild there that I need to visit."
Fairy Tail… Lucy… What are you getting into?
Erza ended the call on her Compact and turned to Freed and Constantine. "I'm told the evacuation was a success?"
Freed confirmed it. "Yes, Master. All civilians were evacuated and are currently going into the center on the outskirts of town. We have Mages already deployed and helping any civilians who display sickness."
"Good." Erza looked at the guild hall compacted with sick beds and sick members. "Now, we need to evacuate." She cleared her throat. "Attention, Mages of Fairy Tail!" she boomed.
The guild hall eased into silence and the members looked at their master.
"The evacuation was a success," Erza announced. "All civilians are being guided to the forest center. From there, Mages and others alike will help the populace distribute food and take care of the sick and injured." Her eyes softened as she looked down at everyone around her. "Now, I ask for one more thing of you. Everyone is to evacuate the town as well and rejoin at the forest center. I will personally make sure every Mage has left the city."
"But, what about you, Master?" came a shout.
Erza held her gaze strong. "I will remain here."
Noises of objections and protests clashed in the air.
"Master, no!"
"We won't leave this town! Not without you!"
"I want to stay and fight by your side!"
Erza raised a hand for silence and got what she asked. "This isn't up for negotiating," she said firmly. "All of you must evacuate the town immediately. The more each of us fight means the more we weaken ourselves. I will join Laxus, Natsu, and Gajeel at Kardia Cathedral. Until we return, I leave members Mirajane Dreyar and Freed Justine in charge of this guild—"
Protests drowned out the rest of Erza's words. None of the protesting were rude to Erza. The words spoke of a desire to stay and fight. Everyone, sick or not, wanted to stay in Magnolia to fight the good fight and save their home from danger.
Erza's gaze softened when she saw Aine trying her best to calm down an upset Ena who kept shaking her head angrily.
I'm sorry, Ena. But, this is for the best if we want to survive. If the demon emerges, I can't risk the lives of my family, especially when their lives are sick.
"Hey, Erza!" came a shot.
The guild hall died down as Gray stepped up to the stage with no shirt and his arms crossed over his chest. He looked up at Erza with a raised eyebrow. "Sorry to call you out, but your plan is bullshit," he said bluntly. "We ain't leaving you and those three other idiots to this job. We're family. We stay and fight for our home as a family, got that?"
Erza sighed. "Gray…"
"That's right!" It was Cade that spoke, struggling to sit up. He looked at Erza with determined eyes. "It was you, Master, who gave me a home after I was thrown into this freaky world! And I'll do whatever it takes to defend my home from assholes who think they can run the place!"
"We're not leaving, Erza," Evergreen said. "We're staying right here where the fight is at."
"Not like this is anything new," Gray added. "Fairy Tail always gets itself wound up in Hell. But, we always fight back and we always win because we're us."
The guild roared in agreement.
"We won't leave without a fight!"
"Fairies do or die!"
"Hell yeah!"
Erza found her eyes glistening as a smile tugged on her lips.
This guild… We really are stubborn brats, aren't we?
Erza cleared her throat and the noise in the guild hall died down. "All right. If you so choose to stay and Porlyusica or Wendy consider you fit to fight, come to me with your new assignment. We will take our back by force and show them Fairy Tail does not give up!"
The guild went into utter chaos as they howled their agreement to their master's words.
Erza could not help but feel worry as she thought about their next fight.
I pray to the masters before me… Please, let my family win this fight and come home.
Luna could hear the sounds of battle as Magic and Curses reverberated in the air. Her thoughts went straight to Gale as the earth shook and a howl of pain shot into the air.
What do I do? I can't leave Gale to fight alone, but I could never leave Igneel like this.
The earth shook again and Luna flinched.
I really was kidding myself about coming here. No, no, I can't think like that. Think positive. I can help somehow. I'm strong. I just—
She flinched again when the air vibrated. She looked at her hands. "What can I do?" she whispered. "What am I supposed to do?"
"Get me out there."
Luna looked up to see Igneel's eyes on her. He looked at her determinedly. "I need to get out there and help him," he told her.
Luna was already shaking her head. "No, Igneel, you're hurt," she reminded.
Igneel tried to sit up, a hand clutching his stomach. "And I'll get over it," he promised, clenching his jaw. "Help me get back out there. I can help."
Luna pushed him back down. "Not until you've healed," she commanded. She gently took his hand off his wound to look at the abrasion. It was an ugly wound that would most definitely scar. Her eyes softened at it.
If only there was something I could do… If I was a Healer like Aunt Wendy or Granny Porlyusica…
Igneel dropped his head on the ground with a loud growl. "I can't believe that dumbass. He needs all the help he can get and he decides to take on a demon alone?"
Luna nodded, ducking her head.
He's right. Gale needs help. And maybe that's not me, but…
Her eyes locked determinedly on Igneel's abrasion.
Maybe I can try.
She closed her eyes.
Please, if you're there, please help me do this.
Her hands hovered over Igneel's abrasion.
Igneel looked at his little sister in confusion. "Lu? What are you doing?"
Luna let out a little sigh. "Please," she whispered. "Help me heal my brother and save people I care about."
Nothing happened.
Then, white pulsed from Luna's hands.
Igneel's eyes widened as he looked at her hands. "Lu, your hands," he gasped, awed. "What did you—?" He looked at his sister.
White outlined Luna in such an ethereal way, she looked like she was a goddess presenting herself in the mortal realm. Her hair flowed behind her, waving as rolls of nonexistent wind caressed her.
"Luna," Igneel whispered.
Luna put her hands on Igneel's abrasion, making him flinch at anticipation of pain. But, when there was no pain, he watched what Luna did. Ripples of white pulsated from her hands and covered Igneel's body. The sensation he felt was like when you found yourself at total peace in one, rare moment. It was like when you could feel yourself between awake and asleep and it was a dreamlike feeling. It was a sensation that you could not tell from one word. You could only explain and no one would understand.
What is this? he wondered. I've never felt Magic like this, not even when Aunt Wen healed me. But, it… It doesn't even feel like Magic.
Luna moved her hands apart for a black gas to seep out of the wound. Once the gas had all left, it vanquished without a second thought. The abrasion began to heal with scar tissue forming. Igneel looked at his legs. It took him a moment, but the shackles on his legs appeared, black and clunky. He watched as white filled the shackles and forced them to disperse into harmless particles.
Once the process was complete, the white aura left Luna back in her normal state. She staggered as she groaned.
"Luna," Igneel fretted.
Luna shook her head to give Igneel a tired smile, opening her eyes. "I'm fine," she promised. "I'm just really tired." Her eyes went to the scar on his stomach and dulled. "I'm sorry," she murmured. "I should've tried harder to—"
"You did great," Igneel promised. He sat up, wincing a little. "It's just a scar. Not like I don't have a few from training and run-ins with assholes."
"Yeah, but still…"
Igneel put a comforting hand on Luna's shoulder and offered her a grin. "You did great," he reiterated. "Scars just mean you went through a lot of pain, but you survived it all. And, besides, I thought girls like guys with scars?"
Luna gave him a flat look. "Mary Jane is still going to beat you up no matter what."
Igneel pouted. "It's worth a shot. Maybe she'll go easy on me since I got hurt. But then again…" He could already imagine a pissed-off Mary Jane with her murderous aura around her. A sweat drop appeared on his brow as he tried to play it off.
I have that feeling she'll just double her efforts to make me feel even more pain. What's worse: MJ's wrath or a demon?
He could already hear her seething voice. "You severely pissed me off, you moron!"
Sweat poured from his brow comically.
Definitely the demon.
The earth shook and the rock dome crumbled a little. Luna flinched, but Igneel pulled Luna to him, trying to shield her from debris. When the wave had passed, Igneel looked up at the little hole Gale had left them.
You idiot, going alone on this. And you were complaining about you saving my sorry ass. Guess the tables are turning.
"I guess we're going out there too."
Igneel looked down to see Luna breaking away from him with a glint in her eye. She offered him a determined, yet nervous grin. "Let's do this."
Igneel nodded and smiled at her. "Yeah. Let's kick some ass."
The earth shook again.
Igneel hardened. "Grab onto me and don't let to," he ordered. "I'm going to get us out of here, but the method is basically an explosion."
Luna held onto her brother and nodded up at him. "I'm ready whenever you are."
Igneel nodded and closed his eyes. His fiery Magic Circle bloomed beneath both brother and sister and Igneel could feel his flames sweep into his body, strong and yearning for him.
I've missed you too, he confessed to his Magic. Now, let's get out of here.
"Red…" Igneel chanted. "Burst!"
°•°•°•°
The rock dome shattered in a fiery explosion of red flames. Luna was clutching Igneel for dear life as flames danced around her and Igneel. They did not harm her. They purred around her like a feline accepting a new human companion. The flames died away and Igneel let out a grunt of pain, stumbling.
Luna made sure to catch him. "Igneel!"
Igneel groaned, but gave her a feeble grin. "Sorry 'bout that. Not at one-hundred percent just yet."
CRACK. CR-CR-CRACK.
BOOM.
BOOM.
Igneel and Luna looked to see the battle going on. Neither side seemed to care about the explosion as Possessed-Lance whipped black lightning at Gale and Gale did his best to block each bolt, countering with offense as his defense. Neither side looked well. Gale had a deep cut on his side and shoulder and welts on his back. Blood spat from his mouth.
Possessed-Lance had his clothes torn with noticeable wounds piercing his skin, especially his chest. Occasionally, blue static buzzed around him, making him cry out in anger and pain. He may have looked like he was going strong, but anyone could see fighting Gale and Lance was taking a toll on the demon inside.
"What do we do?" Luna whispered. "What can we do?"
"You can stay here."
Luna whipped her head up to Igneel. "What?" she breathed. "But… Igneel, you—"
"Right now, this isn't your fight," Igneel told her gently. He unwrapped his scarf from his neck and wrapped it around Luna. "And I'm so happy you could heal me, Lu. You don't get how proud I am of you. But, it's dangerous for you to be here."
Luna shook her head as her hands went to the scarf. "And it's dangerous for you to be here too," she argued. "You're still hurt. We have to get you home!"
Igneel met her frantic gaze squarely. "Gale can't leave," he reminded. "I'm not leaving him behind, not now or ever. He needs back-up and that's what I'm here for." He stepped away from his sister. "You have to leave, Lu."
Luna shook her head again. "Please, Igneel, you can't keep going. You're hurt."
Igneel cast her an assuring grin. "Hey, don't worry about me. I can do this. You got here, didn't you? Now, it's time for you to make yourself an exit."
"I won't leave without either one of you," Luna said firmly. "You can't make me leave. I'm not abandoning you to fight a demon on your own." She took a step forward. "I can free Gale and we could go home. We could get help," she suggested.
Igneel took another step back. "And who would be here to keep the demon busy?" he asked her. "We have to stay and fight, Lu."
Luna bit her lip as she felt her mouth quiver. "Igneel—"
Igneel tensed. "If you're not going to listen to me, guess that leaves me no choice then." He drew two of his fingers as his Magic Circle bloomed beneath him. He looked at Luna with guilt. "I'm sorry, Lu."
Luna looked at her brother in confusion and fear. "Igneel… What are you—?"
"Borderline: Ring of Fire!" Igneel chanted.
Luna was startled when Igneel's Magic Circle blossomed beneath her feet. Her body illuminated with red as she stared at it, puzzled. As the circle faded away, Luna looked up. She walked towards Igneel. "Igneel, what did you—?" She was stopped when flames erupted from the ground to stop her from walking. Luna let out a gasp as she scrambled back. She looked at Igneel, betrayed. "What did you do?"
Igneel tried to get Luna to understand. "If you're not going to leave, then I had no other choice. It'll protect for as long as I'm still alive, so I promise not to die on you." He turned his back on Luna. "See ya."
Luna sank to her knees. "Wait," she whispered. A tear slid down her face. "Stop."
Igneel allowed his flames to consume him. His eyes went to the battle. He followed as Possessed-Lance came out of fighting the cyan lightning to block Gale's wall of earth by zapping it with lightning.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
I'm sorry, Lu.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Igneel hoisted himself up in the air with flames streaking red and orange propelling him forward.
Luna leaned forward as her hands hit the ground and her eyes squeezed shut, stinging with tears. She could only cry her brother's name.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
I know you want both of us to be safe, but… If we want to protect the ones we live for…
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Igneel allowed his palms to commit explosions to propel him forward faster.
Onyx eyes brightened with fiery passion.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
…we have to fight our way for survival.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Flames came off his body, but not just his red flames. Orange, yellow, green, sky blue, cerulean, violet, pink, white, dark, holy—his rainbow flames ignited on his skin. He did not look like a human. He looked like he was the god of all fire as his flames wound around him, howling for battle as they obeyed their master.
Onyx eyes locked on Possessed-Lance who tried hard to keep Gale and his death scythe away from him.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Getting hit by lightning totally sucks, Lance. I hope you know that. But, thanks for the little present you left me. I promise I'll put it to good use.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Mira and Mary Jane made it outside of the storm sewers. Mary Jane fell to the ground, nearing unconsciousness, and Mira was quick to help her daughter while fretting all the while. She held Mary Jane and murmured comforting words as she brushed her daughter's hair back from her face.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Just promise me you put in a good word for me with your cranky sister. Make her stop throwing me out the window and we'll call it even.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Gale dispersed his death scythe to get down on one knee and bury his hands into the marble. Gritting his teeth, he raised a little bit of the floor off the ground and lashed it. A wave of earth rippled.
Possessed-Lance was caught off-guard and caught in the wave.
Gale was about to follow up with another attack with Igneel zoomed by, shocking him.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
And you, you moron. Make sure Lu doesn't do anything stupid, okay? And tell Luke to calm down when he sees me because I know he's going to freak out and so will Ma. Nashi will call me an idiot and Pops will just high-five me for my battle scars.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Igneel landed before a startled Possessed-Lance with his eyes glinting in something so powerful, there was no word to describe it. He took on Possessed-Lance himself and went offensive at once, starting with a hopping roundhouse kick.
Possessed-Lance bobbed out of the way and delivered his own middle roundhouse kick.
Igneel raised an arm and blocked it without hesitation.
And that was when the fight became much more than just Magic. It became more physical. It became more of fists and feet than incantations.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
I have this power for a reason. Magic isn't to kill. It's to protect the ones you love. It's to save people. It's to be used for justice, not vengeance.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Possessed-Lance used a hand and lashed out black lightning at Igneel.
Igneel did a backflip to avoid it. Then, flipped in the air again, curling in on himself. Flames consumed him to the point where you could not see a body. You just saw a wheel of flames. The flame wheel landed on the ground and began circling Possessed-Lance. It went faster and faster and faster until it seemed to be a tornado of rainbow flames engulfing Possessed-Lance. He found himself choking on the lack of oxygen as he staggered to the ground. He held his throat, coughing.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Can't believe something as wise of words came from you, Pops. But, I have to thank you for that. I can't fight for vengeance. I fight for justice. Guess I got my heroic theatrics from you. Ma told me you have a hero-complex. You show-off.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Luna found herself mesmerized by the flaming tornado with its colors reflecting in her eyes.
Gale, too, could not take his eyes off the flames.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
But, I get it, you know? It's not about playing hero. It's about protecting people I care about.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
He could see all of them. He could see Magnolia. He could see Fairy Tail. He could see his friends goofing off. He could see his parents playfully bantering. He could see Nashi giving him the middle finger. He could see Luke getting angry over Lacrima games. He could see Luna laughing at one of his adventure stories. He could see Mary Jane seething as she shoved him out of her window without a thought and slamming the window as he fell.
In present-day, Igneel spun out of his flame wheel and burst into the air. He looked down upon a choking Possessed-Lance.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
So, with the power I have, let me protect them, okay?
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
It was a spark, but it was there. Then, it was more than a spark.
Cyan static coursed over Igneel's body.
His flames howled as the lightning joined them with a howl of their own. It was like flames and lightning were born of the same blood as their desire for justice was the same as their master's.
"With the flames I command, Rainbow Fire Secret Art!" Igneel shouted. "Combine with lightning and commit justice to the one who has wronged me! Let flame and lightning create the sacred Thunder Rose!"
The color of flames and the blue lightning around Igneel forged into a magical rose with him in the middle.
Possessed-Lance shakily looked up and his eyes widened. "No!" he rasped. "No, you can't! You can't do this!"
Igneel twisted his body so he was flying head first at Possessed-Lance. "And let my Thunder Rose…bloom!"
The magical rose opened itself as it headed straight for Possessed-Lance who paled.
"No!" he screamed.
Gale found himself ducking down as marble scrambled to shield him.
Luna found herself looking at her brother with wide eyes.
And the attack…hit.
The explosion was surreal. Flames of all colors intertwined with cyan lightning flooded the cathedral. Luna flinched back as all she saw was flames and lightning, but the attack dare not hurt her. Instead, it domed around her as though knowing she was not the enemy.
Luna looked up at the sea of colorful flames and blue lightning in awe.
Igneel…
It took a while for the flames and lightning to leave the hall, and, once they did, Gale shifted out of his protective covering to look.
His eyes widened.
The hall was intact. Nothing was singed or burnt.
But, that was not the problem.
There was Possessed-Lance, screaming and crying as flames and lightning bit at him. The body got a few burns, but it looked like the flames and lightning were not aiming to hurt Lance's natural body. They were only hurting the demon within.
Possessed-Lance's eyes turned solely black as black smoke poured out from his mouth, nose, eyes, and even his pores.
Luna and Gale were in shock while Igneel watched with growing anticipation.
This is it, they all thought. This is the demon.
A cloud of black smoke left Lance. Once it was all gone, the flames and lightning around Lance's body left him. Lance's eyes turned their normal color, but he fainted, his body crumpling into a heap. But it was the cloud everyone was focused on. It shifted and tumbled as it tried to find a suitable form. Its form melted into one, long form. Two sets of eyes glowed from the winding form, gold and hateful. A voice rang out in sadistic hiss.
"SSSSSSSSSSSo, thissssssssss is how you want to play it, huh? I should think you would want me, Forneusssssss of the SSSSSSSea, in that human'sssssssssss body. Without it, I can't sssssssstay on dry land much longer."
"So, what?" Igneel snapped.
A chuckle, sleek and dark. "SSSSSSSSSSSo, let'sssssssss take thissssssssss playdate outsssssssssside, shall we?"
BOOM.
The great doors of the cathedral opened.
And Luna turned around to see seawater rushing in.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Fairy Adventure
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Luna's jaw dropped. "Oh, no…"
Gale did not even care that the black smoke had headed for the water. He cared when the seawater hit him and nearly carried him away. His eyes darted for Igneel who was already grabbing Lance who slowly woke from his unconscious state.
"Wha…? What's going on?" Lance slurred as water hit them.
"Um, the church is about to be flooded, but don't worry," Igneel soothed. "We've got a plan." He looked at Gale as more water swept them away. "We have to get to Luna!" he shouted.
"On it!" Gale found his footing on solid ground and pushed his hands up. The air underneath him and Igneel sprung from the ground just before water could sweep them into its abyss. The earth formed a bridge between Igneel and Gale and made a walk to get to Luna.
Luna stood up as the water swirled around her. The ring of fire protected her from the water, but seeing herself being surrounded was forcing her to hyperventilate. "Help!" she screamed as the water began to take over and nearly sunk her and the protective fire. "Help!"
Gale and Igneel were already on the move.
"Come on!" Gale yowled. He waited a little for Igneel and Lance to catch up, then took the other side of Lance. The two hurried as best as they could with water sloshing through the cathedral. The pressure had become so much, a few of the windows had broken. More water surged into the cathedral and nearly through Gale, Lance, and Igneel off-balance as a wave sprung up onto the water and hit them. Gale stumbled and Igneel slipped, landing in the water. Gale's eyes widened with alarm as Igneel fell into the water.
"Igneel!" he screamed.
Bubbles formulated in the water than the water grew hotter and hotter as foam made an appearance. Igneel burst forth from the water with flames on the soles of his feet and his palms. He barely kept himself afloat as he looked at Gale. "Can you take Lance? I need to make sure Luna is okay."
Gale nodded as he ducked, his shoulder meeting with Lance's gut. He hauled Lance over his shoulder in three moves, shifting him with a grunt that provoked his injuries. "Yeah. Make sure she's okay!" he encouraged.
Igneel nodded and headed for his sister. His palms committed explosions to propel him forward, but he could see his sister and his protective spell on her had sunken with most of the church.
She's still alive down there. I know she is.
He circled the area she was once in that was engulfed in water.
I can feel my spell still working. Time to take a swim.
Igneel let go of his Magic to dive into the water. It took him a moment to adjust to the water with his cheeks swollen with air. His eyes rapidly blinked to get used to the water. His eyes went to see a dome of flames burning brightly even as water touched them. His flames had turned silvery-cyan. It was his liquid fire. He began to do a front crawl to get to the dome of liquid fire. It was hard as gushes of water hit him, but he still swam as best he could to the dome of liquid fire. The second he touched it, he could feel his flames welcoming him, purring at his touch. He fell head-first into the dome and let out a shout when fresh air hit him. He fell to the ground with a groan.
"Oh, shit, that hurt," he grunted.
"Igneel! You're okay!"
Igneel blinked the water away from his eyes to see Luna looking over him worriedly. He grinned. "Hey, Lu. Miss me?"
"More like I'm mad at you for making me stay in this stupid ring of fire, worried about your injuries, upset you two won't listen to me, really angry at a demon, and I really want to cry because I'm really worried about everyone else," Luna said instead.
Igneel blinked. "How can you feel all that much at once?"
Luna smacked the back of her brother's head. "You idiot! Do you know how worried I was for you? For all three of you? And now, we're stuck underwater!"
"Hey, I didn't know he'd go and flood the place!" Igneel argued. "Besides, we have Lance back!"
Luna sighed. "You're right. I'm sorry. I'm just really worried."
Igneel sat up as he ran a heated hand through his hair. "I'm worried too. I smell like seawater," he complained. "Do you know how long it's going to take me to stop smelling like a fish?"
"Igneel!" Luna smacked him again. "Focus!"
Igneel pouted as he rubbed the back of his head, steam coming off him as he dried himself. "I am, I am, geez. No need to hit me. I have MJ for that."
Two new bodies joined them in the dome of liquid-fire. Lance came first, barely awake, and Igneel got up to take the rest of his body into the haven. Gale followed with his feet coming in first. He landed on the floor sopping wet and shook it out.
Luna flinched as she tried to shield herself from the droplets of water. "Hey! Don't get me wet!"
"Yeah, Redfox, you look like a wet dog," Igneel jested.
Gale glared at him. "Oh, ha-ha, screw you." He looked at Luna and his eyes flitted over to her for any signs of injury. "You all right?"
Luna nodded and her eyes softened as she looked at him. "Yeah, I'm fine. It's you three I'm worried about. All of you are hurt."
"And we'll deal with it like the big boys we are," Gale promised. "We've got a whole new situation to deal with." He looked upwards and his eyes narrowed. "The church is flooded and the demon is outside of it just waiting for us. And knowing these things, they never work alone. I'm betting he had a whole fish army out there ready to get a taste of human sushi."
Igneel sighed dreamily at the prospect of food. "I'd kill for some sushi right about now…"
Gale snapped his fingers at Igneel. "Focus, dipshit. Slay the demon first. Hit up Mister Shin's sushi bar later," he snapped.
"But, what are we supposed to do?" Luna fretted. "I don't know how much air we have left in here and none of us are like Aunt Juvia and can breathe underwater."
Igneel took that into account. "No, but… Didn't she teach us that charm for underwater stuff?" he recalled. "I know she came in with Aunt Aquarius for that whole underwater fight unit thing we did back two summers ago, but I'm drawing a blank on the charm. Some bubble charm?" He snapped his fingers in remembrance. "Oh, yeah! It was that Bubble-Mask Charm! I remember the incantation and everything!"
Gale nodded, looking impressed. "Wow. You actually remembered that?"
Igneel shrugged, trying to play off the smug look. "Luke isn't the only smart twin."
"He is. You just have your moments," Luna teased.
Igneel looked gobsmacked at Luna's words. "What is this? My own baby sis turning against me?" he gasped. "And here I thought you loved me!"
"Now, who would ever love a dumbass like you?" Luna joked.
Gale full-out laughed at that. "Oh, my God! Blondie-girl, you're really making your way into my heart right now," he said in mirth. "Swearing and dissing your jackass brother?" He groaned as he put a hand over his heart. "I think you need to marry me."
"Ha! Lu could do so much better than an ass like you," Igneel quipped. "Besides, she's not allowed to marry until she's thirty-five."
Luna rolled her eyes. "You can't tell me what to do," she protested. "I already had my first kiss, so—"
"You had you're what now?" Igneel exclaimed. "What asshole kissed you? Who the Hell gave him the right to kiss you?" He narrowed his eyes. "Was it that guy I saw you hanging out with?"
Luna huffed. "'That guy' has a name, you know, and it's Jay. And, no, he wasn't my first. But, it was my choice to have it, not yours. I don't have to tell you anything," she said hotly.
"Lu, you can't expect me to not hunt this guy down!" Igneel argued. "Tell me who it was!"
"No!"
"Luna Anna Dragneel, you have five seconds to tell me who the Hell the bitch was or else—!"
"I'm telling Mary Jane you have a picture of her in your wallet and on the ceiling of your room!" Luna blurted in threat.
Igneel paled. "You wouldn't," he whispered, though he still cowered back.
Luna met his gaze evenly. "Try me," were her growled last words.
Gale looked at Igneel in high skepticism. "Okay, I can see how you have a picture of her in your wallet because you're obsessive like that and we've all come to terms with it, but your ceiling? Dude. Just, why?" he probed.
Igneel rubbed his neck as a nervous laugh bubbled from his lips. "So, about that Bubble-Mask Charm… I think the spell goes…"
"You're telling me later," Gale murmured into Luna's ear.
Luna hummed her laughter. "What do you have to offer me in return, dear dragon?" she asked with a teasing lilt in her voice.
Gale grinned. "I'd say since the princess is always hungry, I could take her away from her tower for one night for dinner on me."
Luna mocked contemplating his suggestion. "Your offer sounds tempting, and, while I'd rather not eat dinner off you, I could think of a few places we could go for food."
Gale's throat rumbled in a chuckle. "I daresay, principessa, are you trying to flirt with a dragon? That's some dangerous stuff."
Luna's lips twitched into a grin. "After saving this dragon's sorry ass from danger, I think I'll be fine."
Gale's smirk broadened as his lips brushed against her ear. "You really should stop swearing, principessa. Not too becoming of a lady like you."
"Oh? And like you'd know what's becoming of a princess," Luna playfully bantered.
"Well, I—"
"Are you two even listening to me?!" Igneel barked.
Luna's cheeks tinted pink as her eyes focused on her irate brother. She offered him a sheepish smile. "Sorry. Can you say that again?"
Igneel looked between Luna and Gale who subtly moved away from Luna. "What are you two whispering about anyways? I didn't really hear anything." He hit the side of his head to see a stream of water come out on the opposing ear. "I think my ears are still waterlogged."
Luna opened her mouth. "We—"
"Blondie was just trying to distract me by trying to rat out your reason for being creepy with the Devil Woman," Gale blamed.
Luna looked at Gale with wide eyes. "What?!"
Igneel gaped at his sister. "Luna!"
Luna looked at her brother pleadingly. "But, I—!"
"Cool your jets, Dragqueen, she didn't get far in telling me," Gale assured. "None of my business whatever the Hell goes on between you and your little empress."
Luna glared at Gale. "But, you—!"
Gale slapped a hand over Luna's raving mouth with a sly grin on his face. He raised an eyebrow at Igneel. "You were saying?"
Igneel seemed to accept the situation and nodded. "Like I said, I'm not sure if I'm completely right about the incantation, but it's worth a shot trying." He put his hand near his face and closed his eyes. "Būla-köbük!" he chanted. In a matter of seconds, the spell worked to reveal an oxygen mask made of a giant bubble that went around Igneel's nose and throat. He took his hand away from his face and smiled when it worked. "Awesome!" he cheered as he dismissed the charm. "It worked! Now, we can fight our demon on his own turf!"
Gale let go of Luna's mouth to do the spell on his own. Meanwhile, Luna looked at Igneel worriedly. "And you're sure this is a good idea?"
"Definitely," Igneel said. "We have to take him on now or else he could go out and ruin countless more lives."
Luna bit her lip. "I know," she mumbled. "I know that. I just…" Guilt pooled at her stomach as to where her thoughts were going.
Igneel seemed to read her mind and softened as his hand went to her head. "I know you don't want us to get hurt," he revealed, "but it'll be okay. Sometimes, we have to get hurt to make sure no one else does. It's our job."
"No, it's not." Luna gave him a weak smile. "But, protecting people is what we love to do, so I guess it kind of is." Her eyes went down to look at Lance who slipping back into his unconscious state. Her smile was marred into a frown. "Lance and I will be fine," she promised. "Just promise you two will be too."
"We will," Igneel assured. "We promise." He looked at Gale. "You got it?"
Gale nodded with his bubble mask intact. "Yeah," he said as he dismissed the charm, "but we need a game plan. My attacks are all earth-based and when I'm surrounded by a bunch of water, not even my gemstones are going to be strong. They're weaker in water."
Igneel had to agree with that. "Yeah. I've got my liquid-fire, but it's hard to keep it up. I haven't been training with it long enough to gain too much control over it in underwater fights."
"So, what do we do?" Luna wondered.
"I've got nothing," Gale came clean. "But, we're going to need something if we're going to fight against the demon." He looked up at the roof of the dome of liquid-fire. "And something tells me that the demon we pissed off is going to be sending us a lot of heat the second we step out of our safe zone."
Fire bathed the accursed sphere in the sky, but it did nothing to break it. When the fire stopped drowning the accursed sphere, Natsu was left with an angered expression as he glared at the sphere in the sky.
Nothing is working. I've tried all my attacks and there's not a dent in it. What is this thing?
"Yo, Salamander!" came a yell.
Natsu looked down to see Gajeel wiping out familiars only for more to take their place.
"Mind hurrying it up up there?" Gajeel shouted. "Not like this ain't any fun, but it's getting old watching you spit out embers!"
"I'm trying my best here, metal-head!" Natsu yelled back. "But, nothing's working!"
It was Laxus who shouted, "Maybe you're thinking about it the wrong way! What you feel, it feels dark, right? Like a Curse? Then, maybe you can't be the dragon king to defeat a Curse!"
Something clicked to Natsu and his eyes went back to the sphere of Curses. "And maybe I don't have to defeat this at all," he murmured. To Gajeel and Laxus, "If I lose control—!"
"Don't worry, Salamander! We'll shoot you down before that can happen!" Gajeel promised in a rumbling laugh.
Natsu grinned. "Nice to know you two have my back." He closed his eyes.
All right. A Dragon King isn't needed for this fight. But, the Etherious King?
Natsu's eyes snapped open to reveal the emerald had darkened into glinting red.
He's ready for a fight. But, I can't lose control. I have to keep myself grounded.
A clawed hand touched his scarf as he let out a breath.
Igneel, Anna… Hope you can keep me in-check.
It was then, his thoughts reached out to Erza.
Yo, Erza. I've got a plan, but I'm going to need your help.
Erza nodded at the last Mage as she stepped back on the stage. She overlooked her guild. They were buzzing with their new assignments she and Constantine had thought of together. Each one met with their new groups and partners and spoke deeply about their plan.
So, their new assignments are set. I can only hope every last one of them will come back safely.
Natsu's voice rang in her mind. Yo, Erza, I've got a plan, but I'm going to need your help.
Erza frowned. What's wrong, Natsu? Has something gone wrong?
No, nothing's gone wrong, Natsu assured. I'm just trying something that I know Lucy isn't going to like.
And, what would that be?
There's a bunch of Curses right above Kardia Cathedral, Natsu explained. I've been trying to destroy it, but, in my current form, I can't. A Dragon King can't defeat a Curse, but…
Erza got where he was going and sharpened. Are you sure about this, Natsu? You've risked exposing one of your secrets already being out in the open. If you lose control—
If I do, bring me Lucy, Natsu told her. She's the only one all of me cares about and can agree on. Knock me out, put me downstairs, and have her talk me down.
You know Lucy wouldn't approve of this and neither do I and neither would Gray, Erza warned.
I know, Natsu sighed. Lucy'll understand. She'll get worried and call me 'stupid', but she'll get what I need to do. Gray'll get pissed at me and probably punch me, but he'll come around. And you—
I'll set aside my personal beliefs, Erza finished. If you feel this is necessary, I won't stop you.
Thanks, Master. Make sure the guild is safe from this. Once this thing blows, a lot of Curses and freaky souls will be trying to find some warm bodies to fill.
Understood. I'll give you the all-clear in just a few moments, Erza promised. To the guild, she shouted, "Attention, everyone! I've just received important news!"
The guild's murmurings and conversation came to a halt as eyes went to Erza.
"I've received word from guild member Natsu Dragneel," Erza began. "He has a plan at the moment that has it necessary we all stay in the guild until his actions have been completed. Once he is finished, you may move forth with your assignments! Is that clear?"
"What's he going to do?" came a shout and others followed in suit.
Erza sighed. "He plans on helping get rid of the source of what is happening. But, for his plan to work, all Mages must remain indoors." She looked at Warren who was on standby and nodded at him. "Please, communicate that." To her guild, she said, "That is all."
As the guild dispersed into conversation, Erza went to Freed and Constantine. "Where are all Mages currently on the street?"
"After Warren's message, many of them have found restaurants and abandoned shops and buildings to hide in," Freed informed.
"Eighty-one percent of Fairy Tail members that were on the streets are indoors," Constantine spoke. "Update: eighty-three. Update: eighty-six."
"Erza!"
Erza looked over to see Gray waving her over from near the stage. She wandered over to him and settled in a crouch. "Yes, Gray?"
"Don't tell me that idiot is going what I think he's doing," Gray growled. "He can't do that to himself. Remember what happened on our one-hundred-year quest when he accidentally did that to himself? Lucy still has the—"
"It's not my decision or yours to make," Erza reminded Gray gently. "And I have not forgotten what happened. Frankly, I wish to forget and I know so does Lucy, Wendy, Happy, and Charla."
Gray shook his head, crossing his arms. "I don't like this," he said, deadpan. "This ain't right."
"Can you feel anything?" Erza wondered. "How are you feeling, by the way?"
Gray shrugged. "Could be better, could be worse," he said vaguely.
"Gray…" Erza gave him a warning look to not lie to her.
Gray raised his eyebrow as a scowl twisted on his face. "What do you want me to say? That I feel like crap because I can feel the demon's influence in me? That I'm getting pretty tired of fighting it? Or, that my own son can't even recognize his mom crying for him with the curse he inherited from me while he's caged in the guild confinement area? I'm great, Erza. Terrific."
Erza caught the pain looked behind Gray's frustration and sighed. She laid a hand on Gray's shoulder. "I know what you mean, Gray. When I went to check on Mystogan, he had no recollection of me." Her eyes flashed with sadness. "It's not fair of what's happening now and I thank you for fighting it. But, we both have to be strong for both of their sakes. And, regarding Gary… Would it had been better if he was not born?"
"That's not what I meant and you know it," Gray rumbled. "I love him so much it hurts. He's my first kid and he's gotten so strong. I'm so proud of him. But…" His dark eyes averted to the floor. "I wish he didn't inherit my Magic at all," he confessed. "It's made his life Hell having this Magic."
"Would you rather he have no Magic at all?"
"No. I just—…" Gray ran a hand through his ruffled hair. "Why did he have to inherit it? I'd rather none of my kids have this Magic. It's not even Magic. It's a Curse my dad gave to me before I had to see him die again. And it's a Curse I gave to my own kid. And, now look at him…" He ran his hand down his face. "Look at Nashi," he told Erza. "You really think she got those injuries from a familiar alone?"
Erza knew as well as Gray that that was only a lie. "We can't say for sure," was all she said.
Gray growled. "Oh, don't even bullshit me, Erza. We both know who gave her those marks," he snapped. "Do you know how upset they're both going to be? Gary, he's… He's not going to be the same when he sees her."
"Mara has promised to talk to Nashi and Gary separately when they are both ready," Erza informed him. Her eyes drifted to Nashi to see her tending to her mother. She spoke to Lucy in soft tones as she took a cloth and wiped Lucy's forehead. Luke sat at her side and tried his best to make Lucy comfortable by laying his palms on the sides of her head. Gold Magic radiated from his palms, relaxing Lucy. Erza felt a touch of a smile. "Nashi is so like her mother in so many ways," she murmured. "She can hold grudges, but not when it comes to this sort of thing. She'll forgive him easily."
"But, can he forgive himself so easily?" Gray questioned. "He's already hard on himself as it is."
Erza did not know the answer to that question. She tried to answer it when a voice cut her off.
"Master," came Constantine's voice, "all Mages are now indoors."
Erza looked over at Constantine and nodded. "Thank you." She looked back at Gray with a firm frown. "We'll talk later. When this is all over, I want you to encourage Gary to see Mara. She is better than any of us when it comes to therapeutic talking and recovery from events like this."
Gray nodded. "I'll try my best," was all he could promise. "Tell Natsu he better not lose or else I'm kicking his ass."
Erza smiled. "Understood." Her thoughts went to Natsu.
Natsu, you are clear. All Mages are indoors. Gray expresses you must win or else you will feel his wrath, and, quite frankly, I share his sentiment.
Natsu grinned as he flapped his wings.
Don't worry, Erza. I'm not planning on losing. Just…make sure…you know…if anything happens—
I promise, Natsu, she will be the first person you see. Now, good luck. I believe in you.
Natsu snorted. "Now, let me have some faith in myself," he muttered. To Gajeel and Laxus, he shouted, "All right! You idiots know what to do!"
Gajeel smirked. "Just get your ass in gear, Your Highness!"
Natsu's eyes sharpened as he felt his flames ignite around his body. "Etherious King Mode!" he chanted. Flames burst around Natsu in a sphere. His red flames that were gold-tipped began to turn a darker, uglier shade. No longer did they radiate nobility and honor like a dragon. They soured into something accursed, something that only brought pain and suffering. Natsu squeezed his eyes shut as he let out a feral growl. It was not the same one as the dragon king. It was filthier and meant to howl for blood. The membrane in his wings burned off so it was a deep red fire tinged with black that acted as webbing. The horns on his head were no longer a burgundy, but curved and darkened so they were black. His white claws blackened and his scales became a darker shade. His hellish flames ran down his back and tail, hissing for blood, for death, for the enemy to die. His hair was pink, but on the ends of his locks were deep red flames. His canines elongated into noticeable fangs ready to sink into whatever tried to defy him.
Natsu tipped his head back and let out a roar that was not normal. It was not human. It was not dragon. It was something else entirely. It was the call of the Etherious King.
The flames spinning around him disappeared for all to see Natsu in his Etherious King form. He did not look like the Natsu they cherished and made fun of on a regular basis. He did not look like the Dragon King every Dragon Slayer lay respect to. He looked like the Etherious he was when he thought Lucy was gone, but worse. He looked like a pure demon in this form. Even the familiars on the ground looked up to him and lowered themselves as a sign of respect. He was not a pureblood demon. He was an Etherious. But, he radiated a power that their master had and they knew better than to disrespect it.
Natsu's eyes opened to reveal his sclera had turned pitch-black. His eyes glinted red with no pupil, just red. The sphere in the sky finally stopped reflecting the sky to show its true form. It was a dark mass with a source that had no end or physical border to it. You could see the mass of forgotten and rotting souls in the dark mass. They bemoaned for a host. They pleaded for help. They did not want to die. They did not know they were already dead.
Natsu closed his eyes.
Stay focused for Lucy.
His clawed hand clutched his scarf.
Stay focused.
His eyes reopened as he saw the accursed sphere of moaning souls. His hand moved towards sphere when it came into contact with an invisible barrier. His lips twitched into a snarling grin.
Wow. This bastard really did take his time to plan out everything. But, I'm betting he didn't plan on me doing this.
Natsu flapped his wings as he backed up a little. He sucked in a deep breath. "Etherious King's…" he chanted, his cheeks filling with power. "Raaaaaaaaaaaaage!" He blew out a hurricane of demonic fire that swirled and cackled and lusted for destruction of thine enemies. The swirling flames of Hell came into contact with the barrier protecting the accursed sphere. The breath attack pushed and pushed against the barrier and—
CRACK.
A crack came from the barrier.
Then, another.
Then, another.
Natsu pushed a little harder and then…it broke.
The barrier shattered and the breath attack made direct contact with the accursed sphere. Rather than exploding and disintegrating, the accursed sphere exploded into a mass of black that sprung into the air. A shadow was casted over Magnolia for all to see. The souls of the forgotten and the souls of the rotten gleefully took to the sky and wanted to spread out to find a practical host for their less-than-pleasing forms. But, as they tried to escape, they hit something in the air. Glinting came Freed's violet ruins and made the mass of black recoil as the souls moaned again for they could not find a host.
Freed allowed himself a little smirk as he watched the mass of black try to break his ruins. "Nice try, but I knew something like this was coming," he said smugly. "Something about this little 'virus' must've changed to make it harmless against my ruins. But, if I make it so not even oxygen can get in, that means you can't get out."
That being said, the rest of us will have a substantial amount of oxygen left, but that doesn't mean our supply will last forever. Hurry, Natsu. Do whatever you have to do.
The hollowed eyes of the cursed souls looked into the streets to find them empty. Not a single body fought and therefore there were no hosts for them.
"Raging Thunder!"
"Iron Dragon's Rooooooooooooooar!"
The accursed souls looked to see Laxus and Gajeel fighting proudly against familiars who dared thought to challenge them. A ripple of sadistic glee went through the mass of black as it flooded downwards. The souls had found themselves able and powerful bodies to host them. They found fresh blood. As they began to separate into two spirals to drive into the warm bodies, Natsu flew between them with a smirk.
This is for you, Lucy. I'm sorry.
Natsu took in a deep breath and began to suck in air.
The black mass of forgotten souls found themselves being pulled towards Natsu's mouth. They squealed and cried and begged for their souls to be released. They asked for bodies. They asked for life.
But, Natsu did not care.
He began to suck in the black mass without hesitation and he did so greedily. He could hear their screams, their pleads, their cries, but he ate them regardless. The curses bubbled inside him, but did nothing to him. Eating the black mass of curses and twisted souls was just like breathing and eating fire. It came natural to this form of Natsu.
Gajeel looked up to see Natsu eating the black mass and wrinkled his nose. "I think I'll stick to metal, thanks," he grunted as he cut down a familiar.
Laxus electrocuted a squadron of familiars and rolled his eyes when he saw Natsu eating. "Just make sure you aren't a messy eater!" he called. "Get every last bit of it! Wouldn't want something to slip away?"
Natsu kept his feast of curses. For the moment, he felt nothing but satisfaction from eating. It was a different taste than fire or food. To this side of him, it tasted better than fire. Hearing screams, feeling their pain and their agony—it was delicious. He made sure not a bit of it slipped away from him as he began to finish up. He slurped the last of it all and gave a satisfied sigh as he swallowed. He belched, but did not excuse himself as he patted his stomach. "Wow. Never thought eating Curses would feel so go—!" He let out a loud groan as his flames began to fight him. The red in his flames fanned into black, then went back to red.
Laxus' eyes widened. "Natsu!" he called.
Natsu found his altitude dropping as his flames flickered from a deep red to a forbidden black. Familiars cleared the way for him as he landed ungracefully in the stony courtyard of the cathedral. He clutched his stomach and rolled over as he gave hisses and grunts of pain.
Gajeel growled. "Dammit, Salamander, keep it together!" He finished off the last of his enemies and jumped from his rooftop. He tumbled to the ground and took off running to Natsu. The familiars did not mind him as their eyes went to a distressed Natsu. They seemed to be waiting for something and quite eagerly as well.
Gajeel and Laxus got to Natsu at the same time, both of them looking at Natsu in worry, even if they tried to hide it.
"Come on, Natsu, you can fight this!" Laxus urged. "You're the Dragon King! You're the Salamander of Fairy Tail!"
"You're Bunny Girl's mate," Gajeel reminded. "Fight for your mate!"
Natsu let out another groan as his flames fanned into black, purring around him. "Nnngh! Shit!" he cursed. "This…doesn't feel to good!" He gave another muffled groan of pain as he bit his bottom lip. His eyes cracked open at Laxus. "Laxus… Do it—Nnngh!"
Laxus gave a quick nod. He pointed a hand at Natsu. "I'm sorry," he mumbled. He shot a bolt of lightning from his finger and it hit Natsu.
Natsu gave a gurgling noise as lightning coursed through his bones, snapping at him and his flames. He clenched his teeth as his body convulsed against the lightning, fidgeting and squirming and trying to make the pain go away. Eventually, the fight was too much for him and he fell unconscious.
Gajeel scooped up Natsu and tossed him over his shoulder. "Well, at least we took care of one thing," he grunted.
"We have to make sure he gets to Lucy," Laxus said. His eyes swept among the familiars whose eyes were locked on Natsu. "Looks like we have no one to fight as long as we have him."
Gajeel sneered at the familiars and they growled right back. "They're all lookin' at him like he's their savior," he snarled. "It's disgusting. He ain't one of them. He's just Salamander."
"My guess is they can now feel his power and think it's like a demon's," Laxus theorized. "They wouldn't attack their superior." His eyes narrowed at one familiar that sniffed them. "It's not right, but right now, Natsu's saving us from even more fighting. We have to get this back to Erza."
"Did it," Gajeel grunted. "Says Bunny Girl can see him. She's fallen sick, but maybe he can help her."
"They'll help each other," Laxus amended. He began to walk and the familiars stepped back and bowed respectfully. He hesitated, but decided to walk. "Come on. The sooner we get him home, the sooner we're away from this mess."
Gajeel grunted as he shifted Natsu and followed Laxus. "Got that right."
As the two walked away, neither noticed a pair of eyes lurking in the shadows. They watched as Gajeel and Laxus left the courtyard with an unconscious Natsu.
A dark grin. "Report this to my father. He'll want to know about this. Got it?"
A black creature that looked like a raven, but had two sets of glowing, red eyes, cawed as they opened their wings and took to the skies. They circled around the Kardia Cathedral once before diving back down. They folded their wings as they dove. Instead of hitting the ground, they hit a shadow and disappeared into it.
The grin broadened. "Oh, hell yes. The Etherious King is much more invaluable than we thought."
Erza brought the attention of Fairy Tail. "Attention, all of Fairy Tail! The plan has been a success!" she caterwauled. "All new assignments will be carried out immediately! Gray and Happy, you will meet with me right now!"
The members cheered as excitement burst through them for the anticipation of another battle. A success was a success. None of them may have known what the true win was about, but it mattered little. All they knew was a member had succeeded and victory could only be eminent.
Gray and Happy came on stage. Gray's eyes were darkened in worry as he looked at Erza. "Is he all right?"
Erza shook her head. "It seems it was too much for him. He had Laxus knock him out," she explained. "If you two could, I would like you to meet them. Freed has sent them a rendezvous point to meet with and will help all of you to the guild confinement area. There, I will bring Lucy."
Happy nodded, though he did not look like his namesake. He looked quite the opposite. "How does Lucy feel about this?"
Erza sighed. "I don't know. I haven't told her yet. Nashi and Luke are with her and, while they know of Natsu's origins, they may not know the rest. I won't be the one to tell them."
Happy nodded sadly. "Aye. I don't want them to get upset again," he agreed. "Where are we meeting them?"
"Meet them on East Sunset Avenue," Erza instructed. "And, be careful. I don't want anyone else getting hurt or sick."
"We'll be careful," Gray promised as he walked away. "Happy, let's move!"
Happy flapped his wings, though drearily. "Aye, sir," he mumbled.
Erza watched as they blended into the mass of members in the guild hall.
Oh, Natsu… I hope this works. Gale, Lance, Igneel—I can only pray the three of you will be fine.
Gale paced the floor. "Anything?" he questioned.
Igneel shook his head. "Nothing I'm thinking of will help us. I've got Purple Flare. I can shoot some bullets and beams with it, but nothing powerful enough to put a scratch on a demon."
Luna sighed as she massaged Lance's head. "So, we're back to square one."
"There has to be something one of us learned," Gale growled. "I wish we had Aunt J. I hate the stupid Prince of the Sea, but he'd actually be useful right now."
"Silver is a great person," Luna said calmly, focusing on Lance.
Gale snorted in disbelief. "Yeah. When he's not getting creepy over Paige," he muttered.
Igneel rolled his shoulders. "Well, I've got nothing," he said flat-out. "I'm not like Luke and have a method to everything. I've got fire and that's about it."
"Li… Ligh…"
Everyone looked at Lance who was beginning to stir. His fingers twitched as though trying to move. His eyes fluttered open, though they were half-lidded and his emerald eyes were dull of life.
"Lance," Luna whispered. "What is it?"
Lance's eyes shifted to Igneel. "Ligh… Ligh…" He let out a strangled noise as he tried to lift his hand. "Ligh… Ligh…"
Igneel furrowed his eyebrows. He lifted a hand to Lance's own. "What are you—?"
ZZZZT.
Everyone was in shock as a stream of blue lightning connected Igneel and Lance's hand.
Igneel, startled, withdrew his hand, and the stream of cyan disappeared. He looked at Lance for answering. "What was that?" he demanded to know.
Lance grunted as he felt weary. "Ligh… Light…ning… Lightning," he slurred. "O…Oke…a…nos…" His eyes fluttered shut as he slipped back into his unconscious state.
Luna's eyebrows furrowed as Gale tried to make sense of what was going on. "'Oke…anos'," Luna pieced together. "But, what does that mean?"
Gale snapped his fingers. "Of course," he breathed. He looked between Igneel and Luna with a knowing glint. "You know how there's different colors of fire with different properties?" he asked.
Igneel rolled his eyes. "Well, duh. Fire is my specialty, but what are you—?" Things clicked to him. "Of course!"
Luna's mouth twisted into more of a frown. "What's going on?"
Igneel turned to Luna with an excited look on his face. "Lightning and fire—I completely forgot how similar it is! Just like fire, there are different types of lightning. There's regular, the type Uncle Laxus uses, but then there are a whole bunch more. Like red lightning and black and white and green. Basically, there's such a thing as a rainbow of lightning. Like MJ uses violet lightning, Summanus' bolt."
Luna followed along and nodded. "Okay… And, what does that have to do with 'Okeanos'?"
"Because," Igneel pressed on eagerly, "'Okeanos' isn't just a word. It's a type of lightning. It's the type Lance uses. His lightning is rooted to water and ice, just like my liquid-fire can work in water and my light blue flames work in cold temperatures and can create ice. It's lightning that can be used to fight on dry land or underwater."
This made Luna understand. A smile graced her face as her eyes widened. "Which means it's our only chance of fighting the demon!"
"Exactly!" Igneel agreed. He looked down at his hands. A spark of lightning passed between them. "I'm not sure what happened, but when I got shocked with his lightning, I guess it just sort of stuck to me. I'm not too sure how to control it, but if I can combine it with my liquid-fire and we got something kick ass. Although…" The spark passing between his palms disappeared. Igneel's hand scratched the back of his bare neck and right on his scar. "I'm not too sure how to control it. Give me a few days with Lance and I might have it down enough to try it sparring, but to fight a demon?" He shook his head. "This'll be a pain in the ass to do, but not like I have any other choice." He spared a look at Gale. "And what about you?"
"I'll manage," Gale promised. "I've got some techniques I just barely got started on. It'll be hard for me, but I have to try." He looked up at the ceiling. "I'm going to scout before anything happens. I want to know what we're up against."
"Be careful," Luna pleaded.
Gale gave her a smirk. "Yeah, yeah, like I'm going to make a bunch of fish eat me," he joked. He threw off his jacket before his hands went to peel his shirt.
Luna found herself blushing and her eyes widening as Gale began to take off his shirt. "Wh-Wh-What are you—?"
Igneel was quick to cover Luna's eyes as Gale finished taking off his shirt. He gave him a dirty look. "Dude, you're stripping in front of my sister!" he hissed.
Gale shrugged as he laid his shirt on the floor. He kicked off his shoes. "Yeah. And?"
"She doesn't need to see how hideous you are," Igneel snapped at him.
Gale rolled his eyes as he undid his pants and took them off, leaving him in his underwear. "Who the Hell cares? It's like going swimming! She'll see a bunch of guys half-naked!"
Igneel growled at the thought. "She's too young!"
Luna scowled as she took Igneel's hands off her eyes to glare at him. "I'm not 'too young'!" she argued. "I've seen you go swimming! And Luke! And Papa!"
"But, that's different!" Igneel protested. "We're family!"
Luna huffed and turned her head away from Igneel. "Don't be such a—…a…" Her eyes widened when she caught sight of Gale. He was taking time to remove his socks and gloves, but, essentially, he was stripped down to his boxer briefs. They were black, nothing outrageous, but there was still much more of him to look at. His build had never been scrawny or pale. He was just like Gajeel, broad-shouldered and natural tan skin that was easy to be envious of. It showed how much training he did with the bulk of his arms and definition in his stomach, legs, and back. He was a guy who loved to fight and it was simple as that.
But, Luna's face could not resist blushing. Her eyes flickered around, trying to look anywhere else.
Oh, wow… I never noticed he was—… I mean—… He's so—…
Her eyes flickered back up to Gale before darting away and her cheeks dipping into a darker shade of pink.
Stop it, Luna. Don't think like that. Even if he is really…
Her legs shifted.
…like, really really…
Gale set his socks and gloves with his shoes when his nose caught something. It was a different scent than most he could dissect and not one he had smelt before, yet still familiar. His eyes went to Luna who did not dare take a peek at him.
Blondie's scent is different. It's kind of like that smell Nashi gives off when she's around Gary or Leo sometimes, but not as sweet. And, it smells…
He took a deep breath, then exhaled. His pupils shrunk a little.
…really good.
"Like what you see, Blondie?" Gale teased, raising an eyebrow.
Luna ducked her head. "I, uh… I-I-I—"
Igneel rolled his eyes. "Lay off, Redfox. Your fugliness is scaring her."
Gale's eyes flickered to Igneel, then back to a fidgeting Luna. His smirk broadened as she squirmed.
Ha. Yeah. I'm sure I'm scaring her.
He straightened up, casting one last glance at Luna, then turned to the perimeter of liquid-fire. "All right. I'm going," he called as he turned to the perimeter of liquid-fire. He put a hand near his nose. "Būla-köbük!" The bubbly oxygen mask appeared on his face.
"Please, be safe," came Luna's beg.
Gale looked back at Luna. She risked a look at him with her blush gone. Her eyes only wanted him to be safe. He softened and nodded at her. "That's a promise," he murmured. He turned back to the perimeter and began to move. He shut his eyes as he passed through it. The sensation of liquid-fire was a burning that did not feel like flames nor felt like boiling water. It was something completely different. He was hit with sea water and his body began to ascend in the water. It was freakishly cold and it stung a little when he opened his eyes, but he got used to it.
Gale looked around the church. It was an eerie feeling to see the church underwater. Debris floated around, but the structure stayed the same. Still, it felt unnatural to see the cathedral a blue tint. It felt wrong. Gale blinked as a school of fish fluttered past him in their shining group. His eyes hardened and he began to swim. He swam towards to the open exit. He saw that church was grounded. That was new.
So, we're not floating underwater like we thought.
He turned his body to see the church. Kardia Cathedral was completely submerged. He looked up to see how low they were. They were deeper than he could imagine, trapped in an underwater chasm. He could see a strong current at the top of the chasm with water churning and debris of the sea flowing with it. Silhouettes of fish and magical creatures alike swum above and below the current.
So, he put us deep underground. And, with that current, there's no way of us getting out there. And, even if we did, I know the demon and his army will be waiting for us.
His eyes narrowed.
So, basically, we're on a time limit no matter what we do. Even so, we have to find a way to get home. But, if we do, the cathedral will be flooded.
He turned back to the cathedral and began to swim.
We need to figure something out and fast.
His eyes widened when he saw what was in the cathedral. Three animals had taken to the dome of liquid-fire and prodded it with their muzzles, curious. Two looked similar to horses. Their pelts gleamed in foreign blues and sea greens and violets. The one horse looked bigger than the other. Its hooves had a coating of fins while it looked like it was made of the same membrane as fish fins. Its neck had its own gills to breathe and rather than hind legs, it had a tail like a fish that was strong and flipped occasionally. The other horse was smaller and did not share the same attributes as the first horse. It tread on the ground on all fours with fins on the backs of its front legs. There was a large fin running down its spine and its tail shared fin-like traits as well. Both horses looked like an anomaly as though they truly should not exist. Yet, they fit so well in the water.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
« These are Kelpies, or otherwise known as water horses. Each has the ability to swim with two legs and a tail or walk on four legs. Kelpies are said to be the noble steeds of the sea. Even the Loch Ness is a Kelpie. »
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
The third creature did not look like a horse whatsoever. It took Gale a second to even recognize its shape. It was made completely out of water, yet a different water than the sea water surrounding it. It looked like a serpent with two long whiskers glinting in an ethereal emerald. It had fins on the spin of its body as well as its own crown of horns on its head. In a certain light, Gale could see it did have a pair of front and back legs, each one five-clawed. It nosed the liquid-fire, then retracted its muzzle, sneezing. Its green eyes grew even more curious about the dome.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
« This is known as a Sea King. Often loners, Sea Kings are magical creatures who are rumored to protect the creatures of the sea. Some say Sea Kings may be related to dragons. »
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Gale slowed in his approach to the haven, but it was too late. The aquatic animals had seen him already. All three of them stared at him sharply. The Sea King let his teeth be known as he curled his lip back to growl at Gale as though giving him an assessment, a warning. Gale bared his own teeth at the challenge, but did not dare try to confront it. He swam to the dome of liquid fire and found himself melding into it. The first thing he heard when he got inside was arguing.
"—nd of story!"
"But, they aren't dangerous! They're friends!"
"And, how would you kno—? Holy shit!"
Gale nearly fell on top of Igneel, but stopped himself and rolled his body to the side. He landed awkwardly on his feet and fell to his knees. His bubble mask popped as he panted, dripping wet.
Igneel glared at him. "Dude! Some warning would be nice next time!"
Luna looked over Gale for any injuries. "Are you okay?" she fretted. "What did you see out there?"
Gale sat on the heels of his feet as he combed a hand through his wet hair. "Yeah. Found out we're stuck in the far reaches of an ocean," he muttered. "It looks like he planted us in a chasm. We're not so far deep that the surface isn't impossible to reach, but we're still pretty far down." His eyes hardened. "And, on top of that, there's a current streaming through the top of the chasm. I'm placing my money on the demon and his friends are on the other side of that chasm and he's just waiting for us to figure out how to get by it so he can kill us when we're coming out of it."
"So, we're even more trapped than we were before. Great," Igneel cheered, sarcastic.
"Not necessarily," Gale contradicted. He pushed back his hair as he began plotting. "Igneel, remember those hunting trips our dads would take, you, Luke, and I on?"
Igneel tipped his head as his eyes rolled up to the ceiling. "Yeah. Those were fun and all, but what's the point here?"
"Think of this demon as bait," Gale proposed. "When our dads were training us on how to get predators to be prey, what did we do?"
Igneel did not have to think hard on that question. "Well, we made ourselves prey. We used ourselves to lure them into a cage. And, once they were caged in…" Things were beginning to make sense to Igneel, and, when they did, he looked at Gale incredulously. "Okay, how are we going to pull the off?" he demanded. "We don't have anything we need to trap a freaking demon!"
Luna blinked in her surprise. "Wait. What? You want to do what?"
"We do have what we need," Gale told Igneel. "I mean look at what we're stuck in. This cathedral was our trap. And, now, it'll be his."
"But, how?" Luna pressed.
Gale pressed his hands together to make a finger gun, his pointer fingers lining up. They rested on his lips as he thought things through. "Igneel, you think you can do a big enough fire borderline with the whole interior of the church?"
Igneel had a doubtful look at that. "I don't know. Maybe, but I'd have to really focus. But, if I'm out there fighting, then—"
"Forget about that for a second," Gale implored. "We're going to say you can do it. When you can get the cathedral to be protected, then we move on to the next phase. We have to get past that current and lure him here." He let out an exhale. "But, how are we going to get past it?"
"That's what I've been trying to say!" Luna proclaimed. "There are three friends outside willing to help us!"
Igneel rounded on his sister. "Luna, those things aren't your friends!" he huffed. "They're wild animals! They will kill you before you can pet them!"
Luna shook her head vehemently. "They aren't going to kill us!" she countered. "They'll be able to help us!"
"And, how do you know?"
Luna averted her eyes. "I, uh… I can't explain it," she confessed. She looked back at her brother pleadingly. "But, I know they'll help us! Honest!"
"Let's pause the sibling feud for a second," Gale interrupted. He looked at Luna with an arched eyebrow. "So, you're telling me those three animals outside all of this… You know them?"
Luna twiddled her thumbs. "I don't really 'know' them… It's more like I could feel them and they don't want to cause me harm. It's like they want to meet me and I want to meet them.
Igneel threw up his hands. "Well, great! My baby sister thinks she can talk to animals. Nashi and Luke are going to love this!"
Gale raised a hand to Igneel. "Dude, shut it and be a little supportive. She's onto something." He looked back at Luna. "You said those things are friendly?"
Luna nodded. "Mmm. All of them are."
Gale closed his eyes as he pushed himself to his feet and stood up. "Well, okay then." He offered a hand to Luna. "Come on. We can peek outside just to see what's happening."
Luna smiled in relief as she took Gale's hand. "Thank you," she murmured as she stood up.
Igneel shook his head. "This is insane," he muttered.
Luna chuckled. "So is sneaking into Mary Jane's room, Igneel," she sang-sung.
Igneel scowled—it was more of a pout than a scowl—and crossed his arms, looking away. "That's different," he mumbled.
Luna shook her head in amusement as she took off her boots. "I hope Mary Jane doesn't go easy on you," she teased as she placed her boots aside. She began to take off her socks. When she finished with that, she moved to her skirt.
Gale's eyes widened as a blush coat his cheeks. He was quick to turn around. "What are you doing?" he squeaked out by accident.
"Getting out of my clothes so I can go into the water," Luna said as she took off her skirt. She stepped out of it and folded it before laying it gently on the floor. "You got out of your clothes, so it makes sense I do the same." She moved to her jacket and shrugged it off and onto the floor before going to her shirt.
"I mean, maybe you should at least keep your shirt on or something, right?" Gale coughed as his voice grew in pitch. "I mean, we don't want to see you half-naked, right, Igneel?"
Igneel waved away Gale's concerns as he laid himself on the floor with his eyes shut. "She's got a point," he reminded. "More clothes means more drag resistance. Might as well let her strip. Not like either of us are going to look."
"Yeah, but…" Gale struggled for an excuse. "It's, uh… She shouldn't—… I mean…"
"Dude, chill. It's just like a swim suit, right?" Igneel rolled his shoulders and settled into a more comfortable position. "Just watch her back, okay? If these fish think we're food and not friends, I'm making sushi out of them."
Luna placed her shirt on the floor. "Don't worry. We'll be fine," she promised. She was left in just her bra and underwear. It was nothing fancy. Just a plain black and red bra and black panties. She straightened to look at Gale eagerly. "Ready to go?"
"Uh, right, 'go'. Yeah, um, let's do that," Gale stammered.
Luna tried to catch a peek of Gale's face. "Aren't you going to look at me? Shouldn't we wear masks?"
Gale swallowed. "Yeah. Right." He turned around, but his eyes were trying not to look at her. They glanced about, but, at times, they would catch onto Luna's form. His cheeks darkened with a blush.
Just calm down. One slip-up and she'll probably hit me. Not only that. Her jackass brother might smell me. I just have to keep calm.
Luna blinked up at him owlishly. "Well? You ready?"
Gale coughed. "Yeah. I'm ready." His eyes faced forward to look at her. His eyes wanted to wander down, but he kept his stare locked on her face. He raised a hand to her face as well as one to his own. "Būla-köbük!" he chanted. The bubbly oxygen masks appeared on both Gale and Luna's faces.
Luna turned to Igneel. "We'll be back soon," she promised.
"I'll keep Lance company," Igneel said back. "I hear one scream and those fish are our dinner, got it?"
Luna rolled her eyes playfully. "Yeah, yeah." She looked at Gale who nodded at her. The two looked at the perimeter of liquid-fire, and, with one swift move, they breached it. Luna flinched as they got outside. The cold water hit her like a train and her immediate reaction to water was to squeeze her eyes shut.
I was never too good about opening my eyes underwater. How could I forget that?
Hands went to her shoulder. "Blondie," came Gale's murmur muffled by the sea. "Open your eyes. You have some friends that want to meet you."
Luna hesitated. Then, she tried to open her eyes. It was difficult and it stung, but she tried hard to at least squint. Everything was blurry and she more saw shapes and colors than anything defined. There was a whinny and she could feel water whip around her as something soft, yet firm brushed against her skin. She tried opening her eyes wider and the focus went in and out. Soon, she began seeing clearer with the shapes and colors forming an actual picture. She witnessed three sets of eyes watching her and none of them were human. Her eyes widened as she took them in. "Oh, wow…"
The Kelpie of four legs whinnied as Luna acknowledged them. It walked closer to Luna and jerked its head and neck up and down, stomping one hoof to express its excitement.
Luna lifted a hand to the Kelpie. "Um… Hello?"
The Kelpie bent forward to sniff Luna's hand. Once it was satisfied, it butted Luna's hand. Luna took that as a sign to stroke the water horse's muzzle. It leaned into her touch and surged forward to nuzzle her face. Luna giggled as it did so.
"It's nice to meet you too, miss," she greeted. "I'm sorry to keep you waiting so long."
A nose prodded Luna's side.
Luna looked to see the other Kelpie sought her attention. It bowed lowly at Luna's presence as a sign of respect. Luna blinked, then she understood. She bowed as well. "It's nice to meet you too, mister," she greeted formally. She straightened up and her hands went to the muzzle of the stallion Kelpie. The stallion swished his tail in glee at Luna's touch, pressing into her hands for more of her warmth. Luna beamed. "You're so sweet!" She turned back to the mare and put a hand on her muzzle, stroking it. "Both of you," she corrected. She turned her head to smile at Gale. "See? These two are friendly."
Gale smiled back. "I'm sure they are." He pointed upwards. "But, I'm not too sure about the sea snake up there."
Luna tipped her head back to see what Gale was talking about and understood. It was the Sea King. He was coiled above them, floating. His eyes were locked on her and his teeth were displayed, but they were not bared in warning nor in hatred. They were simply there. He looked as though he were assessing Luna, but more so out of curiosity than suspicion. The two Kelpie backed away from Luna as the massive Sea King uncoiled itself to come closer to Luna.
Gale growled as the Sea King came close and made a move to defend Luna when Luna stopped him. "Wait," she murmured. Her eyes connected with the Sea King. "Let him come."
Gale tried to protest. "But—!"
"He won't harm me," Luna assured. "He's not looking to hurt anyone. I know that." Her voice sounded confident. Even with no evidence backing her words, she was sure of them.
Gale growled, but quelled it and moved away from Luna.
The great Sea King stopped before Luna. He hovered over her with his head close to hers. His nose twitched as he took in her scent. Luna allowed him too, never once breaking eye contact. Before long, the Sea King let out a sigh that made the water ripple. Luna was not afraid. She kept looking at him. An odd mixture between a rumbling growl and an exhale came from the Sea King's mouth.
Luna's eyebrows furrowed. "Yes. I see," she murmured.
Gale blinked in confusion.
It's communicating with her. And, she…can understand it?
The Sea King made the same noise. It spoke to her in its tongue of no words, only a series of growls and grunts mixed in with sighs. And Luna listened to each noise with her eyes glistening in understanding. The conversation came to a close soon enough as Luna swam up to it with her hand extended.
Gale tried to stop her. "Blondie, wait—!"
Luna ignored Gale's call to meet the Sea King. She put a hand on his nose. Her smile became soft and warm. "I see now. You're worried too. For your people. For the ones you care for," she murmured.
The Sea King gave a growl intertwined with an exhale.
"We're on the same side," Luna told him. "You knew that, didn't you? With a demon in your kingdom, you worry for your subjects. Just like with a demon threatening my home, I worry for my family and my friends." She leaned forward for her forehead to touch his nose. "Don't worry. We'll make sure everyone is safe. I promise," she whispered.
The Sea King eyed Luna for a moment. Then, he closed his eyes and leaned into her touch.
And Gale could only watch in wonder.
°•°•°•°
"You guys did what now?" Igneel exclaimed.
Gale brushed back his hair with his bubble mask gone while Luna wrung out her hair. "You should've seen her," Gale went on. "She could actually talk to it!"
Igneel looked at his sister in shock. "But, how? I didn't think you could talk to animals!"
"I don't," Luna assured as she fluffed out her hair. "Not really. It's weird. It's like…we come to an understanding. I don't hear voices or anything. We just understand."
Igneel groaned. "I'm not going to even try to understand that. So, can someone just tell me the plan?"
Gale nodded. "It's simple, really," he assured. "So, let's start from phase one…"
°•°•°•°
Igneel panted as he expanded his ring of liquid-fire. His ring moved little by little. It was not fighting him, but more his flames were reacting to how much power he exerted. As he pushed his ring of fire out and out, water left the cathedral. It poured out from the broken windows and the open doors.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
"We'll start with cleaning out the cathedral… It'll be tough, but you have to do it, man. Once you've cleaned out most of it, we move on to phase two."
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Luna petted the Kelpies out in the water when she saw a shadow come back. She looked up to see the Sea King moving through the water with recruits of his own. They were by Magic or by nature as they followed after the Sea King.
Luna smiled and swam to greet the Sea King with the Kelpies joining her. She reached for the Sea King's nose and hugged it, petting her thanks.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
"Phase Two is all Blondie and her friends. That Sea King cares about the sea too. My best bet is he doesn't like the thought of a demon overrunning it with his corruption. So, Blondie, see if the Sea King is willing to join forces with us. If so, he might bring with him some of his own soldiers to help lighten the load."
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Igneel floated in the sea with his hands nearly together. He was stripped down to his own boxer briefs and his bubble oxygen mask was on him. He focused hard as sparks of lightning was sent in-between his fingers.
A bolt of lightning shot at his butt and he lost his concentration with a startled cry. He looked back to see the Sea King hiding behind a laughing Luna. Igneel had a tick mark on his temple as he ranted to the Sea King.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
"For phase three, Igneel, you have to figure out a way to use that lightning. If all goes well, you're only going to use your lightning to draw the demon down here. He'll take the bait and follow you and the Sea King here."
"But, wait… I don't exactly know how to control it."
"Well, from what Sea King told Blondie, it'll take less than a minute to get to the surface. He can stall the current for a total of ten minutes before it starts affecting the sea. So, you've got about eleven minutes to figure it out."
"Yeah… Okay…"
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Gale dug his feet into the ground and his hands onto part of the chasm wall. He gritted his teeth as he dug his hands into the earth before grabbing something. He gritted his teeth to pull at the earth as though yanking it open. It was not an easy feet, but he was creating more and more of a cave by the minute.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
"Now, for phase four. After the demon is led here, I can shut the door. The Sea King needs to leave me and some his strongest fighters here to fight. I know for a fact when the demon gives chase, he'll bring along some of his servants with him. While the demon follows Igneel, I can shut the door..."
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
"…and, from there, it's all up to Blondie to slay him."
Luna looked at Gale in surprise. "What? Why me?" She rubbed her arm. "I thought you both didn't want me involved?"
"And, we don't," Igneel agreed, glaring at Gale.
"But, things change," Gale went on, glaring back at Igneel. "We're going to need Blondie if we're putting down this demon and getting home. She's our only chance."
Igneel huffed and looked away.
Luna looked at Gale through uneasy eyes. "What do you want me to do?"
°•°•°•°
Luna sat next to an unconscious Lance. They had been moved to the altar. She threaded her hands through his hair as she offered him a sad look. "Don't worry, Lance. We'll get you home," she promised.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
"You're the one who takes out the demon just like you did in the summit. And you'll bring us back home, while you're at it, and save Magnolia."
"I'm not too sure I can do all that. Before was just dumb luck."
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Igneel seemed to get used to the idea of mounting a Kelpie. He tried to get on, but each time, he began floating away. At one point, he got on successfully and whooped, accidentally kicking the stallion. The stallion reared his front legs and zipped away. Igneel was promptly thrown off and spun out of control.
Gale smirked as he rode his own shark-like creature. It had triangular teeth and a tall dorsal and pelvic fin opposite of each other with pectoral fins slicked back and sharpened.
Igneel yelled at Gale for his laughter while he tried to swim to his stallion Kelpie that swam around in alarm.
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
"If that Devil Woman out of all people believed you could take out a demon no problem, then the rest of us believe you. Trust me. She wouldn't have gotten you here or ever talked to you if she felt you were a loss cause. You can do it, Blondie. Just have some faith."
"Yeah, okay… I promise I'll do my best. You can count on me."
• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •
Luna continued to toy with Lance's hair when someone called her name. She looked up to see a Gale peering from the wall of liquid-fire at the entrance of the cathedral. He beckoned her.
"Hey, Blondie, can you come here for a second?" Gale requested.
Luna nodded as she stood up, though she did distractedly. "Um yeah, sure."
Gale stepped into the cathedral dripping wet while Luna crossed the cathedral to meet him. Her eyes were on the floor as she greeted him. "What's up?"
Gale softened. "I know this is a lot on you, but—"
"No, no, please don't."
Gale's words stopped when he saw Luna's trembling hands.
"The encouragement isn't necessary," Luna told him. "I can do this. Not even that. I have to do this if we want to go home. I can't afford to have doubts right now."
Gale shook his head, shedding droplets everywhere. "You can drop the tough chick act with me, Blondie," he murmured. "It's just you and me. I'm not going to judge you. At least, not too badly."
Luna smiled a little and slight laughter bubbled out of her.
Gale chuckled. "There's that cute, little laugh and smile," he teased. He tapped Luna's chin and she lifted it to meet his eyes. "Chin up, Blondie. You've got this. Just relax, breathe, and clear your mind."
Luna let out a breath and closed her eyes. "Relax, breathe, and clear my mind," she repeated. She opened her eyes to give Gale a grateful look. "Thanks, Gale."
"Anytime, principessa," Gale assured. "Just take care of yourself, all right?"
"You too," Luna murmured.
Gale gave a teasing smirk. "What? No kiss goodbye or good luck?"
Luna rolled her eyes, but her cheeks tinged pink. "That was a one-time thing, Redfox. Get over yourself."
Gale took a step towards her, forcing Luna to take a step back. For each step he took closer to her, she took one back to get away. "Come on, Blondie, don't tell me you're too afraid to give your brave dragon some lovin'?"
Luna bumped into something and let out a noise of surprise. She turned her head to see she hit a pillar. Her eyes darted for an escape when she found a gentle hand tip her head back to the front and center.
Intense ruby clashed with nervous chocolate.
Gale leaned against the pillar with arm above Luna's head and his hand still on her chin. He smirked when he saw her gulp. "What's wrong, Blondie?" he asked. "Won't give the big, bad dragon a little loving, principessa?"
"I… That is… I just…" Luna stumbled over her words. It was hard to focus with Gale so close to her. "You're…really close," she found herself whispering as she grasped for words.
"And you're really nervous," Gale noted. "I can hear your heartbeat getting faster."
"I, uh… I j-just…" Luna found her mouth dry of literate sentences.
What's wrong with me? It's like I can't even think straight.
Gale smirked as he leaned closer. "Did your first kiss do this to you?"
Luna blinked, trying to remember. "I don't…"
"Did he back into a wall?" Gale probed. "Did he do this?"
"I… Wait," Luna said.
Gale leaned even closer so his nose brushed against her. "Did he pause like this? Did you get nervous like this?" he rasped.
Luna felt her eyes begin to close. "No, he… I… Wait…"
"And did you get like this?" Gale breathed. "Did he make you get like this?"
"No," Luna whispered.
Gale gave a breath of a laugh. "Figured the bastard didn't even do it right," he murmured. He pushed himself off the pillar and Luna. He could not help but snicker at her expression. "Think that makes us even for the flirting you were doing earlier and your little striptease," he decided.
Luna blinked her eyes open, though she felt like she was caught in a daze. "I… Wait… What…?"
Gale raised an amused eyebrow. "What? Is the princess a little dazed now?" he jested.
Pink colored Luna's cheeks as she finally realized her situation. Her eyebrows slammed together as her mouth twisted into a frown and a scowl adorned her face. "I really hate you, you stupid jerk," she huffed.
Gale only patted her head. "Nah. You love me, Blondie," he decided. "Now, be a good girl, 'kay? And, stay."
"I'm not a dog, you stupid jerk," Luna muttered, jerking her head away from his touch. "When we get home, you're buying me food."
Gale mocking bowed. "Well, if it's at the humble wish of Her Highness, then I have no choice but to obey her every, last command." He tipped his head up to give her a wink. "Is that to your satisfaction, principessa?"
Luna rolled her eyes and crossed her arms. "Oh, shut up. And what does 'principessa' come from anyways?"
Gale straightened up with a lazy smirk. "It's Stellian for 'princess'. Thought it could suit you well, Blondie."
"Whatever," Luna muttered. "I think 'jerk' suits you just well."
"Aw, come on, Blondie, I could get seriously injured out there and you're going to call me names and give me the cold shoulder?" Gale mock-pouted as he made the motion of a tear running down his cheeks. "You're breaking my heart, principessa. I thought we had something."
"You have no heart and we have nothing," Luna grumbled. She upturned her nose at him. "Maybe if I'm lucky, you'll come back with a more gentlemanly attitude like Elvin."
Gale snorted. "Dragons aren't 'cuddly' and 'gentlemanly', sweetheart. And, that's if I come back."
Luna sharply looked at Gale. "Don't say that," she commanded. "You and Igneel are coming back and we'll all go home, just like we planned. We're going to be fine."
"And that's the optimistic princess I captured from her kingdom," Gale grinned. "Keep thinking like that and we'll be home in time for the Harvest Festival."
"E would be so mad if we weren't. She worked really hard on costumes this year," Luna noted, going into thought.
Gale nodded in understanding. "She always was a freak with fashion," he remembered.
Igneel poked his head into the cathedral. "What's going on here? We have to start soon," he commented as he stepped inside.
Luna shrugged. "Oh, nothing. Gale was just being a total pervert," she said offhandedly.
Igneel's eyes snapped onto Gale, suddenly vengeful. "What?"
Gale waved his hand dismissively. "Cool it, Dragqueen. Your sister ain't my type. Why have her when I could have a tall brunette?" He shot a teasing smirk at Luna. "Besides, she's too much of a princess for this dragon."
Luna puffed her cheeks at Gale. "You're such a jerk!"
Igneel lost his vengefulness to pay attention to his little sister as he approached her. "How are you feeling?"
"Nervous, mostly," Luna confessed. "But, I have to be confident about this operation. We'll all be fine. And I believe in that and in all of you."
Igneel grinned. "Always the optimist."
"I'm your number one fan," Luna said cheekily. "You're my brother. You're going to do great."
"Just like you, sis," Igneel promised. He pulled her in for a hug and snuggled her into his hold. "You're going to be awesome. You're my sister. Nash, Luke, and I will always be your number one fans. We all believe in you and love you."
Luna closed her eyes as she hugged her brother back. "I love you guys too," she mumbled. "Promise me you'll at least try to be careful?"
Igneel snorted a laugh. "Yeah, 'careful' and 'Fairy Tail' doesn't mix, but we can try," he joked. He pulled away to kiss Luna's forehead, then pulled back to smile at her. "Don't worry," he soothed. "Just think about all the food we'll be eating when this is over."
"Is that what you normally do?" Luna wondered.
"No," Gale cut in. "All he thinks about is how much he can piss off the Devil Woman when he finishes his job."
"No, I don't," Igneel retorted. "I think mainly about food and what souvenir to get from the job! And…"—a sheepish expression crossed his face—"maybe I think about MJ a little…"
Luna laughed. "You weirdo," she teased. A sudden chill racked her spine and she shivered.
Igneel was fretting. "You cold? Here. Let me help." He warmed up his hands and rubbed up and down Luna's shoulders and arms.
Luna offered him a chattering smile. "Thanks. It's just a little cold down here, I guess. But, I'll get over it."
Gale jerked his head to their clothes near Lance. "Wear my jacket," he offered. Though, it was more like a command. "It's a lot warmer than yours. Especially after Igneel dried all our stuff."
"And, put on my scarf too," Igneel ordered. "It'll help keep you warm."
Luna nodded. "Thank you both." She glanced back at Lance. "I'll use the rest of the clothes to keep Lance warm." Her eyes softened in sadness as she looked at him in his unconscious state. "He's going to need help when he gets home. I've tried to heal him, but it's different. I don't know how, but I know I can't heal him right now."
"We just need to make sure he's safe," Gale grunted. "We shouldn't have let him fall back asleep when he woke up. If he wakes up again, keep him away. He needs to stay awake as long as he can until we get home and Granny or Aunt Wen takes a look at him. We can't risk him slip into a coma."
Luna turned back to the two boys and nodded. "I'll make sure that doesn't happen," she promised. "Now, you two get to your positions. Please protect the Sea King and his people. He promises to do the same to you."
Igneel nodded. "We will. You can count on it. You protect yourself too."
"I will."
Igneel moved away from Luna and began to go back towards the exit. "Come on, man. Let's get to some demon hunting," he called.
Gale's eyes were locked on Luna, but to Igneel, he shouted, "I'll be right there." The second Igneel crossed the wall of liquid-fire, Gale stepped closer to Luna. "I want you to know how stupid I still think you are for coming to this church," he said, blunt.
"I'm glad to think you think I'm just a dumb blonde," Luna muttered.
"I wasn't finished yet," Gale continued firmly. "You might be stupid, but you're brave. Like I said, for the Devil Woman to get you here and want you here, it means something. But, it's not just that." His hand raised to thumb her cheek. "I'm still a little angry you put your life in danger and so is your bro, but we'll get over it. We're both glad you're here and safe with us." His eyes hardened. "That being said, I'll do whatever it takes to protect you."
Luna sighed. "We've been over this, Gale," she started.
"Yeah, and you're not listening to me," Gale told her.
"No, you're not listening to me," Luna argued. "Protecting goes both ways, not just one." She raised a hand to brush his bangs back and gave him a smile. "We all protect each other, okay?"
"I don't need protecting," Gale grumbled. "Your life is way more important than mine."
Luna sighed. "Let's just agree to disagree on this. Besides, every princess needs her dragon, right? Especially when that dragon is supposed to take her out for free food." Her smile twitched into an amused grin. "So, what's a princess to do if her dragon decides to be reckless? Find a new one?"
Gale snickered. "Like anyone would take you on, Blondie. You're lucky I thought about kidnapping you. No sane guy would consider marrying you!"
Luna looked like she physically restrained herself from harming him. "I'm going to overlook you being a jerk right now because we have to be serious," she said through gritted teeth.
Gale smirked, amusement in his eyes. "Yeah, yeah, Your Majesty," he jested. He let go of her to walk back to the exit. "See ya soon, Blondie!"
Luna's eyebrows came together in worry. "Be careful! Protect each other!" she shouted.
Gale only raised a hand to show he heard her.
Luna sighed as Gale disappeared out of the cathedral. "Well, that's that, I suppose." She turned her back to walk to the cathedral. Once she got there, she sat by Lance and put a hand on his forehead.
He seems like he has a slight fever when the rest of his body is freezing cold. I need to keep him warm.
Luna got together the rest of the clothes and laid them on Lance. Once Lance was situated, she found Gale's jacket. She slipped in on her and found it fitting her loosely. Still, surprise wound around her.
It's so big and warm.
Her nose dipped down to smell it.
And, it smells just like him.
Her hands grabbed Igneel's scarf to wrap it around her neck. She, then, laid herself near Lance and snuggled close to him, trying hard to keep him warm and comfortable. Her eyes did not shut. No. They were wide awake in worry and in prayer.
Please, you two. Do your best. And, whatever happens, we can't forget…the ones we're fighting for.
Yea, Baby!
Dance with me! Dance with me! Just dance with me now!
Odorou
motto Party! Party! Like we just don't care!
Sawagou
•
Yea, Baby!
Dance with me! Dance with me! Just dance with me now!
Odorou
motto Party! Party! Like we just don't care!
Sawagou Yay!
TO BE CONTINUED…
Looks like this is going to be the last stand of Fairy Tail from on land to under water! To find out what happens next time, tune into Fairy Adventure!
Chibi-Luna bursts onto the stage. "Hello, everyone! It's time for our Fairy Lesson!" She jumps up and catches onto something, wriggling a little as she tries to yank it down. "Today, we'll be talking about…!" She yanks down the blank board and rushes off screen. A flick is heard and a projection maps itself onto the board. It shows a busy marketplace that has melded itself into a city. Chibi-Luna comes out with a clicker excitedly. "...Malba City, the market city!" she finishes. "Malba City is really close to the Mikage Forest, actually, meaning it's closer to the western border of Fiore right by the sea! It might be a bit small for a city, but everyone knows if you ever want to get anything, go to Malba City! It has thousands of things no one even knew existed from other lands!"
Chibi-Luna presses the clicker and shows a slide of the busy market place once more. You could see all walks of life, from the dark-skinned to the light, from male to female, from honest man to thief—they were all amongst each other. "Rumor has it Malba City was about to become a sacrificial city to a group called Avatars back when my Mama and Papa were younger. But, Fairy Tail kicked major ass and saved the day!"
A sly smirk. "What did I tell you about swearing, principessa?"
Chibi-Luna yelps and jumps back when she realizes Chibi-Gale is right behind her. "Ga-Ga-Gale!" she gasps. "What are you doing here?"
Chibi-Gale shrugs and casually moves closer to Chibi-Luna. "Don't know. Got bored," he drawled.
Chibi-Luna tries to recompose herself. "Well, if you're going to stay here, then you have to sit and wait until I'm finished with my Fairy Lesson," she negotiated.
Chibi-Gale chuckles. "Blondie, you know I'm an impatient man," he reminds her. "Ditch the lesson. Come have fun with me. I'll make it worth your while," he sing-songs.
Chibi-Luna vigorously shakes her head as she tries to step back. "No," she refuses. "You just stay away from me and let me finish—!"
Chibi-Gale ignores her as he scoops her up over his shoulder. "Glad you see it my way, Blondie! Let's go get some food!" he cheers.
Chibi-Luna blushes madly and beats on Chibi-Gale's back. "Put me down!" she whines. "Someone help me! He's kidnapping me before I can even announce the newest episode!"
Chibi-Gale groans and turns around to look at you, "Next time, on Fairy Adventure: THE FINAL BATTLES OF DRY LAND AND UNDERWATER!" He whirls around. "Let's go, Blondie!" he crows as he speeds away.
Chibi-Luna comically cries, waving her hands frantically as Chibi-Gale runs towards the horizon. "Ah! Someone save me!"
Happy appears on the screen, fluttering his wings. He is barely holding in his laughter. "Oooo! Natsu's not going to like this!"
Voices of New Character in Order of Appearance
Kimberly Brooks as Brika Sterling-Armstrong
Shemar Moore as Angelo Sterling