The highest point of the mountains were purely of grass that waved in the light breeze, the atmosphere was fresh as life at its finest. Who's to say that such high points above the earth could be so luscious and serene? The blue sky had a lot of puffy clouds moving overhead, constantly blocking out the son to a teenager.
Said teenager had slicked back black hair, his sea blue eyes taking in light, looking as though one could see the cosmos when looking into those eyes of wonder. He looked all around, seemingly confused.
"…w-what?" He rubbed his eyes to get a better picture. "Where…am I? How did I get here? Is…is this a conscience…again?" He looked down at his hands, seeing as how they were a little smaller. His clothing was a simple white shirt and brown pants, with black shoes, all of which seemed worn out from the arduous trail he's endured. When he realized he wasn't in his usual clothing, his eyes widened. "What the-?! Who changed my clothes? And why am I so much younger?!" He exasperated. His shock and confusion was leading him to nowhere, and eventually, he had to configure some form of action. Scream and run around in circles? Nah. Wait? Not likely. The boy knew he was in this predicament before, but he couldn't remember where. He just stared in all directions aimlessly, the passing of clouds rolling by his sense of time.
He looked up with wonder, his conscience still with him. "…this ain't right. I may as well be dreaming, but how am I fully aware? Let alone, if this is a flashback, shouldn't there be a guide…!" His eyes widened, a gasp escaping his throat. "Wait! Is this another of those realities in a dream world?!" With that sudden inclusion, he turned to face the mountains in the distance. They looked so luscious and beautiful. "A dream of free reign…an inception?"
Ideally, he knew everything about inception since he's been through that concept in past events. Basically, a dream in a dream, a reality of distorted past to discover who or what one can learn from buried thought. He didn't think he'd get an inception as such, especially when it came to his lost past.
He looked up at the massive mountain grass that paved a green path through a valley that led to the top hundreds of feet into the sky. Tilting his head, getting the notion, he knew to follow some form of lead. "Guess I better start somewhere…wherever this dream takes me, I suppose."
Retaining his caution, the boy traveled up the mountain pass, his feet smooshing grass as he ascended high into the cool sky. The altitude continued to escalate, yet he didn't care. He still had oxygen, and that meant he can go up for as long as there was air to take in. He paved a path along ridges, following a grassy trail along the side of the mountain and through gullies.
How much time had passed? When was the trail gonna stop? The questions and the serene atmosphere collided; it was making his sense of direction falter, disorienting him some. There were maybe one or two times he nearly fell over or tripped, but for the oddest reason, he just couldn't stop. He kept going, and going.
It felt like hours, yet time was irrelevant to the likes of him. His breathing was dimming, his panting evident of the lack of air. He trudged up to the top, just below the thick expanse of cloud that loomed over him like a window. When he looked at it, it was but another gateway to the beyond. Once he caught his breath, he looked weary and exhausted, but nonetheless remained vigilant on this unknown course that was telling him to continue to climb.
"How far did I go…?" Turning around to look down, he stared with immense shock that could rival the unbelievable norm of the world of which he treads on. "What…my god…when did those get here?"
The confused boy stared from the very high altitude, seeing that far below, thousands of feet down were vines that twirled and forests that were so expansive that they covered the mountain ranges. The wines were like stairways to the base, ropes that kept trees and other structures together for hundreds of years.
But that was just the tip of the iceberg. There were floating islands all around the scenery in the sky, those that were once part of the land, some having ropes of green vines so sturdy that not even steel could cut through them. They were all floating far below, in some cases near Craig's elevation.
He was left speechless. "Those weren't there before…" He swiftly turned back up towards the ocean of clouds in the sky, the sun barely hitting the boy's back and neck. He stared up with uncertainty, a mysterious sensation dwelling within his gut, as though something was drawing him up the blanket of clouds. Swallowing, the teenager clutched his fists and slowly walked up, his heart rate escalating as he went head first into the clouds.
Once he made it to the other side, he stopped in his tracks, eyes nearly bulging out of their own sockets as he was seeing something he never thought would exist. Beyond any level of recognition, he was sweating, his entire body paling at the most shocking thing to have ever befallen him.
"What…the…?!"
The grassy path lead to a flat grassy plateau that went on for a mile at least, with vines sprouted high into the higher reaches of the sky, where there was a large section of islands flying high in the sky. They were are massively huge sections of land, with vines and root connecting them all together like a jungle.
He stared with no means of words as on the biggest island at the far top, there lied perhaps the largest creature he'd ever seen. It was the size of a titan, if not bigger. Its silhouette was hard to make out, but it had a long, skinny neck and tail. It was a bizarre cross between a wyvern and a bat for some reason, yet as it gazed down at him, its monstrously large, curled up, whip-like claws slowly uncurled their ends, expanding outwards to reveal a vibrant set of wings of membranes that refracted light and any ounce of power.
The teenager was wide-eyed and had no words at the bewildering creature that was beyond any mortal's reach, whatever it was. The oddest thing, however, was also that it had two large gems on its body.
"What…is that…this…this is so much…" He was trembling, abut to get to his knees. "There's so much power resonating from this thing."
As the beast glared at him silently, its wings grew a bright white, engulfing everything in rainbow energy that blinded the boy..
Craig's eyes widened and he jerked awake, his shock transcending back to reality. He stared with a wide gaze up at the ceiling fan, his need for air making his chest rise and fall faster than usual. The ceiling fan spun around constantly, back and forth as Craig's sea blue eyes were stinging from what has been unveiled in his dreams once again.
"What the hell…?" He muttered beneath his breath. He tried to recall that dream…or memory, but what he saw didn't correlate to what he saw over the last 4 years. He was unnerved, and not just because the dream itself had an inception that he had to endure but that landscape, and that terrifying beast at the end, were what gave him chills. 'What kind of power was that? That wasn't Magic Power, but what was it? It's…' He trailed off in thought, visibly unnerved by that vision of the creature of such astonishing resource of power.
Looking back at it, he's felt and seen Magic Power beyond human reach. There was Magic Power that could make the world's core stop, there was power that could be used to turn the whole world pitch-black, and there was power to revive dragons, revive the dead, and so much accumulated power, but something like what he witnessed, it was something that could put all of that to bitter shame. It was terrifying. There were giant sea beasts and flaming demons the size of castle palaces he had to endure as he went to the underworld, but what level of strength that thing had, it could very well put anything to shame. It was making Craig swallow again.
"Mmmm…" A moan from his side caught his attention. Craig snapped out of his shock when he realized he was back in his room, a simple gray t-shirt for sleeping as he was lying on his back, facing the ceiling as Cana was sprawled along his side. She was holding him tentatively, her cheek resting along his collar bone, her breathing lightly tickling the top of his chest.
He stared at her, the brunette looking very much at peace…sort of. She was out like a light, though in a way, it could've either been the fact they yelled each other to sleep, or the boat ride tired out their reserves. He couldn't remember, despite how he could remember a lot of things. It didn't matter right now, as he stared at her sleeping form, frowning as he looked at that face that made him wanna puke his guts out.
He stared back up at the ceiling, eyes half-open as he felt Cana's warmth making his worries about that creature pass…for now. "Dumb Brownie." He muttered.
The precipice mountains that stretched high into the sky were unlike anything ever known, mist all throughout the land of unknown confines. Lush, green areas of thick moss and other wildlife was either barely intact, or visibly destroyed by some unknown means. Several mountains were already taken down, and clinging to a single skinny mountain spike were the two unknown figures that were seemingly hiding from something.
The sound of tils waving through the air rattled about, a monstrously large figure glaring with bright eyes from high above, staring as its three massive tails twirled and spun in the atmosphere. A menacing growl vibrated through the earth, making the mountains themselves tremble in fear.
One of the figures looked towards his comrade, hiding behind the slab. "This is getting bad." He said.
"I know." A single footstep made abruptly made the landscape shudder, making the unknown man flinch for a moment. "We're not getting anywhere with this one.
"Agreed." The other answered.
Another insidious growl came from the distance, thankfully farther away than normal.
"What do you suppose we do? This thing ain't going down." One of them asked. He turned away, grunting. "How is it that the Three-Gem was so easy to acquire?"
The other's eyes narrowed. "The Three-Gem was the most passive and defensive, rather than offensive. He was easy to pick off because of that…" He looked back over towards the mist, seeing a pair of bright eyes glaring in their direction. "However, I am afraid the Five-Gem is not as easy."
"Just our luck." The other grumbled. "You any ideas?"
The unknown titan creature let out another hiss, rattling the stacks once more. The two men could feel a very bewildering amount of pressure as the nearby stacks around the titan came crumbling down. Dust and rock littered like an ocean beneath the mist cloud throughout the area.
The one in charge made the call. "Tch, looks like we came here unprepared." He looked back at his comrade. "We need to retreat."
"What? Empty-handed? You've gotta be kidding me!" The inferior shouted.
The beast in the distance howled out, making his bones rattle.
"It's not empty-handed. We are merely taking a recourse in action; this mission has given us some valuable research on the Five-Gem…am I right?"
The one who was reluctant looked back over his shoulder, seeing the three massive tails raise and the gems at the stingers glistening with power. His comrade wasn't wrong, but at the same time, it was sour to think the beasts were so easy to acquire.
He sheepishly rubbed the back of his head. "Yeah, guess you're right."
"We have to leave, now." The superior advised. "We will have another chance soon, with the data we have received."
The Five-Gem that was shrouded in the mist suddenly let out shockwaves as it screeched. Its menacing shout sent ripples that exerted with so much prowess that nearby slabs and stacks, as well as oversized mountains, cracked and broke apart. It was like an explosion as the shockwaves made all the stacks on the miles around shatter into pieces, flying everywhere. Thousands of years of formations and thousands of feet of rock went flying for miles, smashing through mountains and eradicating the landscape.
The two men that were escaping fled, running as they were speeding away from the shockwaves like ninjas. They vanished just mere moments before the 300moh shockwaves bellowed and brought down the whole area, which was twice as grand as Crocus.
As dust and rock reshaped and settled at the feet of the unknown beast, its three tails and huge form silently crept away, moving to another landscape in hope of shelter.
On the table, Cana slouched in her seat, groaning as her breakfast was simple cereal. She seemed bored and tired at the same time while fiddling her spoon in the various shapes of oats. She mumbled incoherently beneath her breath, among the lines of 'crap' and 'no adequate food'.
Craig entered the kitchen with lethargic footing, hunched over from the casual morning hatred as he trudged towards the fridge.
"Well hello there, sleepy boy." Cana smirked.
Craig stopped in front of the fridge, hissing with deep spite without looking at Cana. His head hit the handle, resting like a mat.
"Well someone's woken up on the wrong side of the bed." Cana teased.
"Easy for you to say. You hog my space." Craig growled low, barely keeping himself awake.
"Well I don't hear complaints about that. Though I'm surprised you complain about everything else around here."
Craig managed the willpower to open up the fridge, pulling out some orange juice he purchased the other day. He shut the fridge and walked towards the cabinets besides the sink. "Not about everything." He cocked his brows. "…just about you."
"What did I do?" Cana feigned innocence.
"Anything, and everything." Craig bluntly growled. He propped open a cabinet and lazily pulled out a small glass. He poured the orange juice into the glass and raised it to his lips. Opening his mouth wide, he poured the orange juice down his throat as though he were watering himself. The action left Cana indifferent as she lazily stared at him.
Once finished, he sighed and sat the glass down. "You know, if I were a greedy prick of nature, I'd be giving ya rent if you end up over here every single night." He paused, letting Cana leer at him with a raised brow. "…but I'm not." He followed up. He slipped the glass into the sink water, which he had fresh for plates earlier when he got out of bed. He picked up the orange juice and it towards the cabinets.
Cana raised a conspicuous brow. "Cranky?"
Craig looked back at her, seeing her odd stare. "Inquiring, he remained stiff as he looked up at the cabinets, realizing what was wrong. He pulled back the orange juice. "Oh. Thanks." He said, though in a grumpy tone. He turned on his heels and backtracked towards the fridge, putting the orange juice back where it belongs.
"Do you even pay attention to what you do?" Cana chimed.
Craig pivoted and turned towards her. "Gee, I'm so~ sorry. I'm so busy trying to stumble every inch while dealing with your own ignorance that I can't seem to multitask. Hoorah for you." He rolled his eyes, showing little concern as he sat in the chair across from Cana with elbows to the table, supporting his cheeks.
Cana frowned in a bored manner at him. "Are you gonna be like that all day?" She questioned.
"Yes." He deadpanned. "Every day, for as long as I see that face."
"You implying I'm ugly, or unattractive? I can't tell." The brunette questioned.
"Yes." Craig answered.
Cana huffed as she turned away. "You obviously don't know what to say to a girl, do you?"
Craig kicked back against his chair. "I do, I just don't give a crap." He noted.
"Well if your life was on the line, what would you say?"
Craig leered back at her. "Hasn't anyone told you words are dumb?"
"You're dumb if that counts for something." Cana laughed mockingly.
Craig's brow twisted, his body rocking back upright. "Oh yeah? I'm dumb, then how come I smashed thousands of others other than brute force. News flash for you today, I ain't stupid." He pointed at her. "You know that as well as I do."
"Oh, I know, I just don't give a crap." Cana smirked, using the same line Craig used. It caused him to grow a tick mark.
"I think you had too much booze in the past forever to know even what you're saying." Craig spited.
"Well I think you drank too much pulp to eve turn that stupid face into sappy-happy if you wanna please women!" Cana retorted.
"Why would I wanna you of all people? I ain't entertainment central, you know!"
"Why not provide entertainment then?! That's liven up my day!"
"Get your own entertainment why don't ya! That stupid face is more than comical for a baby to laugh at you!"
"Well you make babies cry!"
"Your shouting makes babies cry!"
"You make me cry!"
"You make me cry!"
"You sob and sob until you hold onto me in your sleep!"
Cana raised a brow, backing up. "Uh…that's you." She corrected.
Craig's face showed a small blush, his frustration reaching a peak. "Gngh! Tch-oh screw you! I'm gonna go get something to sink my teeth into!" Craig turned to walk out the door, walking away from Cana as she watched him huff and walk off, slamming the door right behind him.
The brunette huffed as she slumped back down into her seat, staring with a grunting sound into her cereal. The milk reflected her pouting image, the only sound that was being made was the two birds chirping outside the window, side by side as they hopped onto the same branch. Cana looked outside just as the two birds flew off in the same direction, staring longingly. After they were out of sight, she looked back at her cereal, the realization of her being alone coming to fruition.
She let out another sigh. "Great, the silence after Cranky goes and makes a scene. That moron."
Twigs snapped as Craig trudged to the outskirts of Magnolia, near the forest where he would venture inside. He kept a low huff tucked beneath his breath as he vented his irritation through harsh treading on forest ground; while retaining careful footing wherever he stepped. He prowled for food, looking around for any means of nutrients, other than leaves and twigs that other forest creatures could enjoy.
He remained hunched over, knees bent as his posture made him look like a hunting dinosaur. "Damn these freakin mornings." He snarled low so that no one could hear him. "When I find food, I'll be sure to take mw swell time enjoying it." Of course there was thick sarcasm implied. He could've said something along the lines of hoping Cana was gone when he got back, but then he'd be lying to himself. If he were honest, he…seemed relaxed around Brownie, though he wouldn't say that to her face, even if it meant losing an arm. While he wasn't find of her ignorance, or how she smelled, her eyes, her figure, her entity as a whole, he was still appreciative of how she didn't seemingly take his own company for granted…somewhat.
He trudged on, looking at the few squirrels in the trees overhead. He could try and jump, but it'd be too big of a hassle. Shaking his head, he trudged on. "There's gotta be something around here. Maybe it's best I try my luck with some wild pig if I'm lucky…"
He felt a light breeze from his right. He stopped in his tracks, the vibrant and luscious sensation of the breeze tingling every hair on his body. He stopped his hunt with a silent confirmation. He turned towards the breeze's direction, keeping a curious disposition.
'This…this a warm breeze.' He didn't get these much since he normally got cold breezes, but whenever something as such got his attention, it was always a sure sign happiness or hope was just around the other corner. He looked to see where the forest cut off to a small hill with flowers blooming all around. His body felt a little warmer. It was getting fuzzy as he slowly trekked towards the trees, looking suspiciously to the small bump in the land,
'Wonder who's having a good time out there?'
"Are we almost there?"
"Yes, it's just over here."
"…hey, yeah, I think I see it."
Craig's surprise became visible when he recognized the two figures coming into view. His eyes widened upon the witnessing of the familiar pink hair and redhead that have been in his way and by his side for apparently some time. Silently, his eyelids dropped, a despondent brow raised. 'You've gotta be kidding me.' He thought.
Natsu and Erza were strolling along, side by side as they made it out of the small trail that went from Magnolia to where they came out. The two seemed to be different in terms of clothing. Natsu – much to his own chagrin – had an outfit, as Erza insisted. Of course Happy reminded Natsu to look decent for her to admire him, so he had on a nice pair of dress pants, a white t-shirt, and a green vest. He didn't seem too bothered, though in Craig's eyes, he could see that he wished he didn't have to be so formal. Erza, however, was in something equally as nice, The S-Class Mage had a bright and inviting smile on her face as her hair flowed down her back, her form covered in a nice white dress, perfect for nice, sunny weather.
Natsu picked up his pace and made it to the top of the hill. "This it?" He asked.
Erza soon caught up, still smiling. "Perfect. I've been meaning to hope this spot would be unhindered," She pulled up something she had laced over her shoulder. It was a well-woven basket, big enough to hold a dinner for five people if organized properly. She knelt down and opened the top, where a picnic blanket was neatly folded.
Craig's arms crossed, his brow raised. "Well there's something you don't see every day." He half-grinned.
Erza unfolded the blanket, gently laying it atop of the smooth hill. The blanket was around the bed of flowers all throughout the field, which left Erza satisfied with the first part.
Natsu turned to her. "Do you need my help? I can if you-" But he was cut off by Erza.
"No, Natsu. I-I'm fine. Really." She insisted. "Thanks or offering though." She smiled as the Dragon Slayer managed to show some concern.
Natsu really didn't want to feel like a baby, nor did he want to feel like a hindrance if Erza's the one doing all the work. It felt so unfair, but he had respect and complied on his own behalf. He just sat quietly as the sunlight beamed down on them both, making their energy as vibrant as plant life.
Erza gently placed the basket in between herself and Natsu. The redhead reached inside, gently pulling out a few sandwiches she had premade. She set them down and proceeded with the next object, which was a few napkins, some bottled water, and a nice garden salad just for herself.
She reached for the next item, which was cooked meat, but as she reached or inside, her hand was touching something else, something warm that made her blush. The shocked redhead looked to the source.
"Natsu?"
"E-Erza!" His hand retreated at the same time Erza's did, both a little flustered. "I-I…" There was a stiff silence between the pair, but it was only brief. "Why…why don't I help?" The Dragon Slayer insisted.
Erza shook her head. "No, Natsu, really. I don't mind-"
"But I do." His abrupt phrasing left Erza more than a little surprised to say the least. Erza remained quiet as Natsu continued to speak. "I feel a little bummed that you're doing all the work…so, maybe I can help, even if by a little…?"
Erza took yet another pause, moments before she finally relented and considered Natsu's perspective. Her smile returned, looking at him with happiness. "Yes, now that you mention, I'd think that would very genuine…Natsu."
Natsu gave his trademark smile to her. "Alright!"
Natsu took the liberty of pulling out a small box of breaded chicken, and Erza took care of the rice. Once again, a small silence fell between them. Erza remained quiet for a few moments until finally her smile softened. It made Natsu blush a little bit to see how genuine and sweet Erza looked in the sunlight beaming down onto her porcelain skin. It glistened so beautifully. As Erza laid the meal out, unaware of Natsu's stare.
B…Beautiful…" He silently admired beneath his breath, barely enough for even sensitive ears to hear.
Erza caught wind of what Natsu said, turning back to see his face that made her blush. "W-what was that?" She stuttered.
"N-nothing!" Natsu hurriedly replied. "Hehe, quite a beautiful day it is, huh?" He tried to chance the subject in hopes of Erza not catching on, thankfully it worked.
Erza looked back down at her meal, her soft smile still there. "Yes. It is." She looked back at Natsu, seeing as how he was starting to gaze at the food. "What do you say we get started then?" She asked.
Natsu looked back at her with a smile. "Heh, what do you know. I was thinking the same thing."
The two began their little brunch, eat bite taken into any of the various dishes prepared as luscious and delicious as the one before it. There was concept of how long they could be there for. As far as Erza was concerned, it could be all night, though it wasn't anywhere close to noon to begin with. They both ate in a comfortable silence, the pair silently admiring the other. Erza had waited patiently for this day. She remembered when she asked Natsu to accompany her on a supposed date a long while when Craig and Cana escaped for that Fogbound incident. Since then, she and Natsu never really got the chance to socialize other than on the battlefield. They didn't have time when Silver Cauldron was active and Laxus was taken; and the most recent mission on Tahunga was another problem. Though the last place was beautiful, it wasn't a right time, and won't be until maybe another five years or so if not three. At long last, Erza finally got her chance with Natsu, her one little thing that she wanted to happen so bad, a way other than the thrill of battle that could bring them together.
As the two admired one another as they peacefully enjoyed their brunch, Craig watched from afar, smiling softly as he leaned against the bark of the tree overshadowing him. When it came to scenes such as these, one would expect him to throw up or scoff at such a lovey-dovey scene, or maybe have walked off out of no interest; but the truth was that they couldn't be anymore wrong.
A small sense of envy was in his gaze as he stared at Natsu and Erza's date. He remained silent as a sense of fuzziness and a mix of mourn passed through his mind.
3 9/12 Years Ago
The nighttime air was so cool, but not chilly. The sky in the forest in the far reaches of Earth Land, within the unknown reaches of the western hemisphere, untouched by time or human control. The stars in the hemisphere glistened with joy, as though dancing with joy as two people walked through the soft grassy woods.
"Where are we going?" A young Craig asked.
He was being pulled by a woman looking to be maybe 17 if not 18. She had long silver hair that glistened underneath the bright moonlight, making it shine so vibrantly. Her dress was a dark green skirt that went all the way to her ankles, her feet bare as she discarded her green slippers before slipping out of the kingdom grounds with Craig. She had a spring green dress shirt with dark green on the large breasts with yellow edging. She had exquisite green eyes and a bright smile.
The lady was grabbing Craig's wrist as she was looking to get away, though from whom and to where was too obvious.
"Delia? Where are we-?!" But Craig was cut off from speaking.
"Ssh!" The princess hushed him, momentarily stopping to turn around and face the near-15-year-old. She looked around, hastily turning back and forth to see if anyone was following. No one was. She looked back at Craig, a small sense of awe in her eyes. "C'mon." She whispered in a smile.
Still in wonder, Craig complied as Delia dragged him. It was so strange for the likes of Craig, as one minute, he was sleeping in a guest bedroom alone in a castle, and the next thing he knew, Delia yanked him out of the window and climbed down the castle walls. He knew she was very grateful for saving her and her father from trained assassins of an enemy kingdom and all, but what does going out to the enchanted forest have to do with any of such?
Craig eventually caught up, nearly walking side-by-side with the coming-of-age princess. The blue fireflies twinkling around the lush mushrooms and little creatures of the forest made everything seem so peaceful. It wasn't like many nights that Craig actually felt fuzzy. He was still recovering from the trauma where his friend a few days back became a lycan-like behemoth and he was forced to slay him. Pressing on was a matter that was still an issue, but Craig was stumbling through life, one second at a time.
Suddenly, Delia stopped. She held Craig's wrist as though her life depended on it. She grinned as she looked out at the view ahead of her. "We're here." She said.
Craig curiously looked where they were. "Where are we…?" He trailed off, his eyes widening on marvel. He couldn't believe what he was seeing. His shock was evident. "W-whoa…"
Before them was a glistening lake, one that reflected the beautiful moonlight. Blue fireflies danced and shined across the water's edge, making the enchanting lake, glisten with a more vivid blue.
"What is this place?" Craig asked. He looked at the other side of the pond, seeing little dwarf-like creatures with trunk-like noses and three hands. There were tree-like living creatures near the water, and other magical animals all around. There was no way could detail what he was witnessing right now. It was so gorgeous, so pure, like something out of a fairy tale story.
"It…it's…" He was baffled with his wording as nothing could come out right. It was untouched by man, life of little creatures frolicking around with such wonder in their eyes.
Delia smiled as she looked at Craig's amazement and giggled. "It's beautiful, isn't it?" She asked.
Craig looked back at her, astounded. "Yeah."
"I used to come here all the time when I was little. All the creatures here are harmless. They're all so fun to be around once you get to know them." Delia advised. "Look."
Craig jumped when he heard a little snort from behind. His eyes widened as he turned around to see a small flower-like creature made up of roots and hollow eyes. It was no bigger than a child, yet as it tilted its head, Craig did the same in wonder.
Delia giggled at Craig's mimicry.
Craig knelt down to the creature, curious yet innocent as the woodland creature tilted its head towards Craig, a white flower blooming with luscious petals. Startled, Craig raised a brow, unsure as to what needed to be done. The creature plucked the flower by itself, handing it towards him, which he accepted with a small grin.
"It thinks you're sweet." Delia answered.
"Really?" Craig looked back at the creature as it stumbled off with its friends, all of which had various greens and flowers blooming around their bodies. Craig couldn't help but smile. "This is a very beautiful place."
Delia walked on over, with Craig watching as she went over to a small slope that went up towards the base of a tree. The generous princess gently knelt down and sat on the grass. She looked up at Craig with a smile. "Craig?"
"Yeah?" He wondered.
Delia patted the grass beside her, gesturing Craig to come sit next to her. Craig complied, slowly waltzing over and resting himself against Delia's side. The two shared a strong silence as they were happily enjoying the other's company. They had a very strong silence bloom and remain there. The silence was comfortable, the two watching the water glisten with life and the moonlight brightening the stars. Who knows how long they've been there for? Minutes? Hours? Time seemed irrelevant, but Craig seemed to be enjoying it.
"It's a beautiful night." Delia said.
"Yeah. It is." Craig said low.
Another silence fell between the two, but it was brief. Delia spoke up again. "Craig?"
He looked over, seeing a frown on Delia's face. The ever-cheerful, happy woman who was a princess and made many smile, was frowning, sad. She wasn't like that when he was around, but he knew that at this time, peace was getting to be extinct. A shadow was over Delia's eyes as she was looking sad. She huddled her legs close to her chin.
"I…W don't want to marry him." She confessed. "I can't."
Craig knew who she was talking about. Vlad Astrong, divine prince of another kingdom nearby. Craig met him earlier, and he didn't like him one ounce. Not only was he exceedingly pompous and floundered his military around like a lunatic whenever he heard a whisper of someone not saying anything good about him came around; he was spoiled, and like his family dynasty, he didn't mind wealth and more power. There was to be a political marriage held soon for Delia and the 20-year-old living ignorance, but even when Craig spoke up, he had no choice but to punch him in the face, causing chaos and a very harsh warning, which Craig gave no damn of.
Craig looked away sheepishly, eyes narrowed. "Well he ain't no prize…unless you were a demon." He added.
Delia craned her head towards him, half-grinning. "But did you really have to punch him in the face?"
"You said you needed space, right? Even I'm not that dumb to NOT know that women need space." He reasoned.
Delia rolled her eyes. "I guess you're right." She frowned. "But still, how could you hit someone who's above you?"
Craig slowly got onto his back, lying on the soft grass with hands behind his head. "Well you can use your fists for one thing, then you have legs to kick. You can braid your hair and whack him with it…"
"You know what I mean, silly." Delia frowned with a sigh.
Craig caught on, the half-grin turning into a frown. "Hmmm…" He quietly pondered as he stared up at the night sky. "I don't know, honestly. I've met jerks and people of all shapes and sizes, but at the same time, I can't bring myself to subjugation. I can't be held down just because someone told me to bow to them, I'm not a knight, I'm not loyal to any king. I'm not loyal to myself even."
Delia was speechless as Craig continued. She knew Craig wasn't sure what was coming out of his mouth, but the princess was paying full attention and actually understanding.
"I learned many things, but what I learn especially was that I have to stand up for myself. You can push me down…" He turned his head away from her, eyes closing. "But even if you did that and stabbed me in the chest, I won't let my friends get pushed around by prissy wannabes. That just how I am."
Delia tilted her head. "Even if they're supreme authority?"
"Even if it were a god." Craig said.
A long silence passed as Delia stare at Craig with wide eyes. The boy had only arrived to the kingdom after wandering alone not even a few days ago, yet here he was, making a profound impact on the princess with his own ideology. This was a boy who would kick anyone's asses without a second thought and not regret it. This was the same boy that the animals and creatures of the enchanted woods felt cozy around in a flash, and yet he says he would defy a prince, and a god.
At last, Delia broke into a laugh. Her giggle from before was nothing but full-out laughter.
Craig turned his head towards her with a raised brow. "What's so funny?"
"N-nothing…hahahaha!" Delia laughed. "I-it's just – haha – that you're such a bold fool."
Craig's gaze narrowed. "Is that supposed to make me feel be-" He was cut off by a sudden feeling that stuck to his hand. The sudden press of warmth made him gasp in surprise.
The blue fireflies lit up like little lanterns, illuminating the area with radiance as Delia had her warm and supple palm and fingers atop of Craig's. The woman stared at him with a warm smile, gazing soundly into his sea blue stare back. The atmosphere around Craig suddenly got warm, the fuzzy feeling in his gut starting to grow rapidly like a virus.
'What's this weird feeling? Why is my whole body feeling so warm? And why is my face starting to feel so light?' Craig didn't necessarily understand what was happening to him. It's been almost a year since he had awoken from being an amnesiac and voyaging like a nomad, and through it all, the world itself had messed up menaces, yet he's never felt this emotion before. What could it be? Bliss?
Delia looked up at the moon above the pond, graciously smiling. "You'd go against the gods to make your own destiny…"
"Delia?" Craig quizzically called out.
Delia looked down at her feet, which were now stretched out closer to the pond. "I really do wonder what kinds of perils you had to face. They sound arduous…but the experiences sound equally as exhilarating." She's never seen much of the world since she's been in the kingdom all this time, but Craig could empathize with her. Seeing a world of hell and wonder makes one scared, but the thrill and wanting to see mountains and terrains of various life is left all worthwhile. The world is a messed up and dangerous place, yet Craig survived.
Craig blinked. He could see how wondrous she was in the beautiful night sky. The stars twinkled overhead as the little forest creatures were happily at peace with their land. Everything was but the ensemble of happiness.
The bear-15-year-old slowly lied back against the soft grass, his mind quelling from the mayhem that he had to deal for almost a year. He settled into the placid scenery as he gazed at the twinkling stars. Delia slowly laid down beside him, her smile brimming with satisfaction from being along someone who truly understood her wonder and prosperity of the world over domination.
Craig grinned at the little memory. That was honestly the first time any girl had taken an interest in what an odd, freakish, and other things among the monstrous category. Delia was a nice woman and all, and Craig was forever grateful that he managed to make her feel trusted and open. Of course, that little 'date', sadly, was perhaps Craig's first – and only – date, while it was Delia's last.
His grin dropped to a frown, the pleasant memories turning into scorn once again.
The next day was when Vlad and Delia would discuss wedding plans with Delia's father. Of course that was when Delia was extremely reluctant, and she finally told everyone aloud that she refused to marry Vlad. Naturally it enraged her father, but Craig's moral 'support' backed her up. Vlad, however, had other plans, when his kingdom's side suddenly infiltrated the castle. Vlad outright ambushed Delia, Craig, and the king, where he surrounded them with his assassins and guards.
Vlad revealed he never wanted a political marriage either, just a massive kingdom at everyone's expense. The king wanted to talk things out with Vlad, but he was…without reason sadly. The king was slashed across his chest, Delia crying out in terror as her father was slayed right before her eyes. Craig, Delia, and everyone were played for fools. Vlad ordered Craig to be killed on the spot, but Craig managed to escape with Delia.
It became a wild chase through the kingdom with Vlad's men taking the kingdom by storm. Craig and Delia were able to get far out of the borders, back into the forest…but at a grave cost.
Even though they were able to evade several ambush attempts, Delia was spoken as the unfortunate. She got three arrows in her back, blood seeping down her back as she trudged through the forest.
Delia panted as she pressed on, with Craig supporting her. "Delia…? Delia, stay with me!" He insisted. "Delia."
Delia looked disoriented as she looked at Craig, barely grinning. "I…I'm okay. Really." It was a boldfaced lie of course. She was pale, the side of her lip having a small stream of offending liquid.
Craig furrowed his brow. "Delia…"
Delia winced, her breathing growing harsh as her lungs felt a harsh pain from the arrows prodded into her back. Small streams of tears went down her face from the pain, but she was doing the best that she could in holding a bright smile.
As they trekked with what strength they had through the enchanted forest, the little forest creatures watched from the distance, peeping out of bushes and shrubs, staring with anxious frowns as Craig hauled Delia away from the terrorized kingdom.
"Craig…" She quietly muttered. "U-up ahead…the pond."
Craig looked ahead, his eyes widening as he saw the pond in the distance, just beyond the trees ahead. He ignored the forest creatures in the shrubs, and focused on the low hill ahead.
"Take me there." Delia finished.
Craig was hesitant due to the princess's feeble condition, but he saw the plea in her eyes; her smile was just extra salt to the wound. "…you're gonna make it. Hang on." Craig was heavily insistent on her making it. He couldn't let her die. He mustn't. He helped her get there. Slowly, she limped towards the open grass area ahead, panting as his scrapes and bruises were but a small toll on his condition. Behind him, the little forest animals began to slowly crawl out of the bushes and behind rocks, slowly wandering behind like a small death row parade.
Craig made it to sunlight at long last, the pond right in front of them. He panted as he was starting to succumb to his dizziness and fatigue. He nearly fell forward, but he lurched back up when he realized Delia was pale.
"Delia-!" He saw the light fading from her exhausted eyes. She looked like she wasn't gonna make. He looked around frantically, looking for any possible answers. All he saw were the woodland animals of various sorts that looked with worry at Delia. No herbs, no medicine, no nothing. "J-just hang on!"
He momentarily sat her down on her hands and knees. Delia coughed up some blood onto the grass beneath as she was hunched forward. Craig moved to the three sharp arrows plunged into her back. He grabbed two. "This is gonna sting a bit."
He quickly yanked the arrows out, a harsh squeal of pain emanating from Delia. The tears fell down her face, the arrows coming out startling the terrified woodland creatures. Craig allowed her to catch her breath for another few moments before he yanked the last one out. He threw them all to the side, proceeding to the next tactic. He hunched over and took off his shirt, revealing bite scars and heinous claw marks from one of two encounters. He put the black shirt over Delia's back, tying the sleeves around her stomach.
"Okay…okay…" He gently carried Delia over to where the most convenient spot was, which was the same exact spot she was when they sat peacefully that one night. He gently sat her lying down where she was last night, a pained look on her face as her eyes were barely open.
All around, the various creatures were slowly gathering, overlooking the pained woman. Craig was swallowing lumps as he overlooked her body, seeing as how she was mortally wounded. "Okay, uh…where do I…? Water!" The little forest creatures made a path as Craig made a break for the pond. He slid to his knees, using the handkerchief Delia gave him the other day to soak up the water. When he got it all nice and wet, he hurried back to her side, where she was barely hanging on.
"Delia…"
He applied the wet cloth across her stomach, hoping the cool water would quell the blood seeping out. He wiped it off Delia's stomach, moving up to her neck and getting the red off her body. He looked desperate, and when the handkerchief reached her cheek, the movement ceased.
Craig went wide-eyed when Delia's left hand reached up and held the handkerchief and his hand, keeping it in place. A harsh silence fell as Craig's eyes remained wide, his horror at a severe brim. The sunlight shimmered above them, radiating Craig's back and Delia's grin.
"Craig…" Delia muttered.
"I'm here, Delia, I'm here." He said. "Don't worry, please. I just need to-"
"Sh-sshhhh…" Delia put her right index finger to Craig's lip, silencing him. Her smile was still there, even when she shook her head. "It's okay, really." She quietly muttered. "You've gotten to where I was meant to be."
Craig backed away a few inches, allowing her finger to gently fall to her injured belly. "Meant to…be?" He curiously wondered.
Delia slowly nodded. "Mhm." She slowly turned her head to the side. "Look around. Loom at everyone."
Craig turned all around, looking at the forest animals. Those that were a child's size, and those that were smaller like teddy bear size, all of which were stumbling and looking at Craig and Delia with frowns, but at the same time, trying to remain hopeful.
"Look at all the friends I've made…look at all the friends you've made. They're all here…you're here. That's all I need."
Craig looked back at Delia, shock once again in his eyes. "Delia…" He wanted to speak again, but once again he was cut short.
"There was a story I was told by my mother, when I was but a small child…" She coughed again, red spilling to the grass beside her. She pressed on. "My…my mom told me…of this beautiful bedtime story, about a rich princess, who fell in love with a farm boy. They were together in the end, my favorite fairy tale. That was one of the many things I wanted." She looked up to the blue sky above. "I wanted to see the world. I wanted to see beautiful stories unfold. I…" Tears went down her face, meeting grass atop of blood. "I wanted to make my story something, to find someone who would read it, and enjoy it."
Craig's shock never stopped increasing. He was baffled as he found no words to describe this awful feeling in his gut. His mind flashed back to last night, when Delia laughed at him.
"Was it too much to ask?" Delia sniffled. "I wanted to make my own story. I wanted to run off, not having father decide my fate. I wanted to write my own tales, have an ending unlike any o-"
"Your story does have a happy tale."
Delia's eyes widened when Craig told her that.
"Delia, l-listen…please. You made happiness blossom when your first chapter was made. You had dreams, you had inspiration to write your own story, to see it come to fruition. I-it didn't turn out the way you want it to be, but the last few chapters meant something…right?" The shock on Delia's face meant he got her. "You could see your story come true. You saw a new chapter unfold. You could write a fairy tale better than anyone else!" Craig's eyes misted. "…were you truly happy with your friends here?"
The little forest creatures all whimpered and sniffled as they were inches away from Delia's body, the woman's realization coming to fruition.
Once again, Delia smiled, wider than ever before. "Craig…"
"Yeah…?"
Delia's eyes were misting up, light fading. "I thought love and happiness were the same thing…and I was right. I love this place…this was where my fairy tale unfolded. My friends that I played with…and the nights that I spent here…I never got old of this beautiful land." She slowly reached her left hand from Craig's handkerchief, moving it towards his right cheek. "Last night…I was happy. I was truly lost in the world that I thought would never come to me…in my kingdom, there's no such thing as dates, just instant marriage. It's funny…getting to know someone's true colors…it's fun…I just wished…I could see more colors out there, in the world." She thought back to when Craig saved her and her father from those bad people, including punching Vlad; that was priceless. She was satisfied. The last memory she had was of last night, where she and Craig talked, and laid down in the grass, stargazing and wondering about the world. Tears stained her cheeks as she stared at Craig right above her.
"Craig…" She leaned up with whatever strength she could muster. It ached as she craned her head up. Craig remained stiff as a board as his eyes went wide. A warm and fuzzy shock ran through his body as time stopped for just that brief moment. Realization hit him as Delia was planting a soft kiss on his forehead.
When she was satisfied, the woman pulled back, gently laying her head in the grass once more. Her smile never faded. "Craig, please don't change…this world needs souls like you…those who'll fight for what is right, not for what's best…you make many smile, I'm happy…to have met someone as passionate as you…thank you so much…" Her eyes began to close. "You're a…good man…I'll see the world…in your eyes…Craig…"
Her voice trailed off as her eyes finally shut. Her hand slowly slipped from Craig's cheek, slowly falling limply to her chest. Despite her injuries, she had a soft smile on her lips, even after her life was gone.
Craig's eyes widened, the joy that was to the kingdom, and one of the first to have ever shown him what a good time was…was gone. Tears started to fall, dripping over the fallen princess's face. His body shuddered, his bottom lip being bit into as he hunched over. He knelt down, gently, nee tenderly, kissed her forehead. Even though she was dead, it was still warm from the sun basking her.
"Delia…thank you…thank you…" Craig cried. "…thank you."
He and the forest creatures all stepped back, watching as the enchanted forest slowly began to draw roots around Delia's body. Her lifeless body slowly became engulfed in roots and flowers, the land answering to her happiness. Craig bared sorrow and cried as he watched her body become part of the forest, the one thing slowly sprouting up over the roots, dirt, and grass where she was before, was a lone flower…with silver petals, similar to her hair.
Everyone gathered rocks, making a small circle around the silver flower, with Craig joining hands with the small woodland creatures in mourning of their princess.
Craig had a shadow over his eyes, staring ahead as Natsu and Erza had their date. Such bittersweet memories, first 'date' as pleasant as a nice day could get, but she was gone. She was open and sweet, and looking at the scene now, he saw Natsu and Erza's smile, a bitter sense drawing upon him. He turned away, head down as he couldn't take anymore and walked off.
"Cranky? Cranky~?! Hey! Where are ya?!" Nearby, Cana was calling out, wondering where Craig had gone off to. "Honestly, does that guy know that it's insensitive to just leave a woman put?" She looked around with wonder, frowning. "Still, when I find him, I'll-!" Her luck fell into place when she saw a person with a jacket tied around his waist. He was walking off towards the river, away from the field afoot. She recognized him, even from the distance. "Cranky?" She nearly lurched in surprise. "Hey, Cranky! There you are! Where have you be…" The Alberona woman trailed off, stopping as she saw the pained look in Craig's eyes. Despite how dark it seemed, her eyes were wide and motionless as she saw how badly Craig was looking to mist up. "Craig…?"
Craig walked off, unaware of Cana following up from behind. She walked over, watching him trudge away in pain. She looked confused and worried at the same time. She turned back around when she heard the sound of giggling and chomping. She saw with shock as Natsu and Erza were having a little conducted date.
She crossed her arms. "Well I'll be. Erza's finally put on her big girl shoes." She muttered.
She remained silent a little longer before realization came to her. She looked back behind, watching Craig walk off into a vanishing act, and back ahead. Her shock surmounted, taking into account Crag's…screwed up history.
Seeing Natsu and Erza enjoying themselves with love, Cana began to understand. She looked back, her purplish eyes showing concern with a frown.
"Craig…"
The upset man couldn't muster up a growl. He had narrowed eyes as he lethargically trudged over rocks that reached a few bushes that bordered the forest from the river where Natsu and Happy fished on occasion, if not every day. Once he crossed over towards the dirt near the water's edge, he began to growl. He seemed very much unpleasant in person, staring tiredly and with bitter remorse at the flowing river water.
He looked deep into the flowing river, gazing coldly at the reflection of the one thing that seemed to be petrifying him…himself. It was his reflection. One could day a reflection is but a mirror; a window that leads to the unknown. It was another world where everything was opposite, or another reminder of what darkness lied in one's heart. Craig was…complicated with reflections. With all that's been done to and from him in the past, he barely looks at himself, let alone an actual mirror. He hated looking at himself. He makes peace with his torment, but all he ever sees when looking into a reflection is a sharp-fanged, raging animal with a bloodshot gaze. The haunting image howls in his face, shrieking with pain and death.
He just growled at the reflection, snarling as he was smart – and sane – enough to know that thrashing at the water or a mirror would not make it go away forever. He wasn't a vampire. His reflection will always be there. It'd be a pointless waste of mentality and strength that wouldn't do anything more than frustrate him to a greater degree. He accepts his reflection, the monster that he may seem to be, as he did long ago; yet coping was another story.
He lowered his head as he sat along the dirt and grass, on the verge of soft tears of his past friend and his bitter rage.
Watching from afar, Cana could feel her pity rise for poor Craig. She frowned as she could see the bitterness in his heart…sort of, but then again, she was a fortune teller, not a psychiatrist. She knew he was hurt all the time, and he didn't mean any deliberate harm. It was experience and mentality that defined the messed up reality Craig had to endure.
He was a bleeding heart, a trait that made him innocence and sweet deep within his being. A trait Cana seemed to…envy.
The brunette eventually found her way out of the forest, slowly walking up towards Craig. She remained quiet, yet she knew that Craig knew she was coming his way, hence him furrowing his brows. She took a seat next to him, huddling her knees close to her chin as he did. Her long brown hair glistened in the sunlight.
"You aren't the only one with love issues too, you know." It wasn't much, but it was really all Cana could say to start the conversation.
Craig opened his eyes and stared tiredly at her.
"Guess it couldn't hurt, since we all know your little issues, I guess." Cana looked at the passing flowing water, the various fish swimming passively. "You know, I have dating trouble myself. It isn't easy for a girl to look for a nice guy, especially with how scarce they can be in this world."
Craig would've admitted that he heard that line before, but he chose to spare the comment as he was being empathized with.
"I can't be sure about your own love life, but we know the end result. I'm sorry, really, I am." She turned towards Craig, sincerity in her gaze. "Listen, all those that you loved and loved you back, I'm sure they're continuing to watch you right now. I can guarantee that they're proud of how far you've come. I don't know what Natsu or Erza's date reminded you off…" She looked up towards the sky. "But I know whoever he or she was, they were very happy to have met you. You've made a lot of people happy at the end of their lives, even if they were cut short. I know it sounds wrong since I never shared the same experience, but even from above, I bet they all still love you for the kind of guy you've become."
Craig's eyes were feeling misty again. Once again, this wasn't the first time someone told him of his late friends of various species and other material. He truly did miss them, with every fiber of his being; and with Ace recently passing away, that was bitter insult to injury. Still, it was comforting that someone was willing to share a little prospect with him.
Craig stared at her despondently, barely half-grinning. "…been there, done that." He quietly muttered.
Cana managed to break into a grin. "I know. Loving someone is something I can't seem to grasp…but I know I'll figure it out someday. Just like you have."
Craig looked forward again, reminiscing on the days that his friends and their final speeches burned into his heart. He made them proud in the end, and he grew; for better. His eyes began to wince in pain as tears began to slide down his face.
Cana noticed him starting to cry once more. She smiled and stayed silent in respects for the thoughts running through Craig's head.
"You…suck…Brownie." Craig quietly muttered.
"I know." Cana said. "You suck too."
In the deep part of the woods, there was a lot of foliage, twigs snapping as something slowly made way behind bushes and trees. Twigs and logs were moved out of the way of the unknown figure. It spotted a large woodland creature, which was four-legged and plump. The unknown creatures small growling caught the mammal's attention, making it turn and look up in slow-growing terror at the human-size creature closed in. The creature went to take a run, gaining some distance, but the bizarre unknown creature speed up and took a pounce, the squeal of the mammal echoing through the forest.
Craig knelt his head and neck to the water, making sure there were so suspicious insects or poisonous aquatics in the clear water. At eased, he opened his mouth and gulped down loads of water, swallowing cup size after cup size. Rather than use his hands and cup the water like others would, Craig went for his usual uncivilized methods.
"Someone's a little pack mule." Cana huffed as she leaned backwards. It's been a few minutes since Craig has calmed down, and he was getting some water.
Craig raised his head, glaring at Cana as water and spit oozed from his lower jaw. He sneered before he dunk his lower jaw into the water, trying to ascertain his fill.
"So what now? Starving?" Cana asked.
After one big gulp, Craig raised his head, using his short sleeve to wipe away the fluid. He turned towards Cana, giving a weary look as he seemed disinterested. He looked back down towards the riverbank, slowly stepping into the water, where the depth reached to his knees.
Cana raised a brow. "Eh?"
Craig inspected the fish constantly swimming with and against the current. There seemed to be less than usual today, something he took note of since he always snared maybe one or two every day. It left him unnerved, but he kept it low-key as his jaws opened up, his sharp fangs prominent and ready to snare. He saw a decent fish in size heading his way, swimming in his path. He remained passively still, until finally, the foot-ling fish got too close and Craig lunged his head down.
With a quick splash, his vicious incisors and canines snared a beautiful fish with shiny scaled. It looked healthy, and Craig raised his powerful jaws back in the air. He turned and walked out of the water as the fish helplessly flopped and wiggle in his mouth. As he reached land, he violently shook his head, tearing into the fish's back and bones. When all was said and done, he used his left hand and grabbed the tail, while his jaws moved to the wiggling head. He snapped down, tearing the head off in one fell swoop. He munched on the head and all, the bones breaking apart and swallowing into his gut.
Cana sweat dropped, while at the same being completely grossed out by Craig's raw appetite. "Well there goes my appetite for the day." She watched as Craig lurched his head constantly like a primal dinosaur swallowing giant meat slabs. "It's the isles all over again." She groaned, recalling the Fogbound mission trail they took.
The birds in the distance flew in a large flock, away from the trees across the river. The abrupt flapping caught their attention, turning their heads and staring at the scenery ahead.
Something about that flying flock didn't settle right. As Craig shut his mouth on the fish tail end, he narrowed his eyes and stared out at the scenery ahead, his body hunched forward, head raised high. He remained silent and weary as he looked out towards the other side of the shallow river.
A long silence passed, until finally some odd coughing echo went through the area. It was loud, and the sound made Craig's eyes sharpen once more. The cough-like sound echoed, unnerving the Alberona woman as well.
"What's that sound?" Cana wondered. "Craig?"
Craig hunched forward, eyes feral as he growled low. "This sound…it can't be…can it?" He said low.
"Cranky-" Cana was cut off when the cough-like sound echoed out again, this time louder and closer.
Craig was rendered silent as he coldly stared out at the monstrous cough. He recognized the call anywhere. It was unsettling, but it kicked up some instinct he had inside. Wanting be sure, he spread his legs a fair distance apart from each other. He opened his mouth, exerting one of his primal roars. The airspace shrieked as his roar went around for miles, scaring even more birds away into the sky.
A faint howl came from the distance, the ears of a certain Dragon Slayer twitching. As Natsu swallowed a cooked piece of meat, he went wide-eyed and recognized the grating sound. He stood up, looking uneased.
"Natsu?" Erza questioned.
"That sound…" Again, he heard another faint sound, one of coughing of echoing intentions. "What is that?"
Erza barely heard the sound, but both hit her ears as well. Her supposed to be easy date with Natsu was cute short, one of the two roars seemingly familiar. She stood up, her senses tingling.
"You know who that is, don't you?" Erza asked.
Natsu nodded. "Yeah…something's wrong."
Craig hunched over, looking primal as he growled towards the other side of the river. Cana reached for her purse, ready to pull out a card. The unknown creature began to draw closer, soon reaching the tree line of the odd roar that was unnerving it as well. It sounded hazardous, and yet intriguing. The only prospect it had was more food.
Once it stepped out of the bushes, the appearance shocked Craig and Cana, the former more shocked than he seemed. "…oh my god."
Cana was baffled. "What…the hell?"
The creature had yellow eyes, black slits that looked in all directions. The creature was the size of a regular man, if not a little shorter. It was hunched over like Craig, with tan and blue scales that seemed dry. It had a medium-sized snout, and rows of sharp teeth bent on tearing into flesh. The creature had small arms, yet large, curved claws. A tail was clearly marked, and the hind legs had claws; the large toenail claw curled.
It moved its head and neck like a bird, tilting and taking note of Craig. It opened its mouth, screeching low.
Craig's eyes narrowed, his sharp teeth prominent. "Just my luck." He retorted back at the creature with a vicious snarl, hunched over as a sign of dominance. Once again, the reptilian organism screeched back at Craig in retort.
"Craig, what the heck is that thing?" Cana asked defensively.
The creature stared at her, taking her appearance as a sign of more food.
"You'll find out. For now, just stand back." Craig advanced slowly, his strides soft and lenient. The odd reptilian creature doing the same. "Whatever you do…don't come closer."
Cana complied, though reluctant. She had to question what it was, but her safety was a concern. Whatever it was, it had sharp claws, and ready to bite into any limb that draws too close.
Craig slowly stepped back into the water. "I don't know why you're hear…but this ain't your time." His eyes narrowed. His teeth shuddered, his mouth emitting a massive snarl. His sharp teeth caught the reptile's attention.
At that instant, Craig and the dinosaur-like creature went blitzing through the shallow stream, running towards another with mouths wide open, fingers and claws bare, and letting out howling screeches that shuddered the air between them. Both bent on killing, tearing the other apart.
Mouths open, their sharp teeth became visible, the rows of the incisors and fangs ready to snap down on the other.
Here is the newest chapter guys! Hope you all liked it as much as I have! There was a lot that transpired this chapter, revolving around the mystery of these beasts, the several flashbacks I made Craig have, his and Cana's moments, Natza moments, tear-jerking flashback, and the reptile that he had to fight in the end. I thus introduce the Historia Arc. It's not much of a title, but I hope it suffices.
Comment, review, and hope you all were happy with another glorious chapter! :)