Chapter 43 – Fighting for Freedom
Hi guys, I'm back with the next chapter of The Fairy Contender! I did three chapters in EDventures in Kalos, so I'm jumping back over here. This chapter will be the bridge to the Tenrou Island Arc, and this chapter will be very important, and you'll soon see why.
Well, since the Kalos Arc is done and over with, let's get on with the plot…sort of!
To Recap:
Using his Legendary Force – Black Kyurem, Nic quarreled with Xerneas while Greninja fended off against Yveltal. Eventually, Nic managed to defeat Xerneas, but he lost too much power, which left him weak and vulnerable against Yveltal, suffering heavy damage. Despite being unstable, Nic went all the way, and defeated Yveltal as well, barely keeping his body intact. The two Legendary creatures were freed from being tainted and went off, and Nic, the Fairy Tail members, and Vanessa all went back to Fiore, back to Magnolia, where Lisanna reunited with her siblings.
Chapter 43 – Fighting for Freedom
It was the night sky that always made Nic uneasy, as he couldn't help but feel remorse whenever looking up. The skies through the dark forest branches were still pretty black, and all he could do was watch and see nothing appear.
"Nic…Nic…" A mutter in the background snapped him out of his thoughts. "It's not time to see stars."
As always, Kecleon had a strange way with words, but she always got her point across, with Nic and his Pokémon at least. In this case, now wasn't the time for Nic to be caught in a daze.
Knowing this, he smiled. "You're right, sorry Kecleon." Nic and his oddball pal then continued roaming through the trees, silent as Noctowl, yet quick as Grovyle. The two had just went out on a job, and they completed it many hours ago. They figured they could use a good nighttime jumping exercise since they haven't had one in a while.
As they went from branch to branch, Kecleon turned towards Nic. "Nic?" She asked in her weird monotone voice. Nic turned his attention towards her. "How you feeling?"
Nic knew what she meant. It had been almost a month since he's been back in Fiore, and it's been a couple days since the announcements of the S-Class trials. Nic, not surprisingly, slept in a small coma for the first week, and Erza checked up on him constantly, though his Pokémon were by his side the entire time as well.
Of course, when they first got back, everyone's jaws dropped. Lisanna had come home, but an even bigger surprise beyond that was knowing that Nic had a sister.
After Lisanna finished her tears after being welcomed back, Alzack took notice of the black-haired girl with a single blonde bang barely over her right eye. "Say Nic, who is she?" He asked. "Another new member?"
Nic smirked. "I guess it's time you guys know…" He then broke it to everyone present that the new member was Vanessa, his sister. This very news made everyone pale.
"WHAT?! YOU HAVE A SISTER?!" They all shouted. Many fainted, many had panic attacks, many just jumped out of the windows for cover. They had no idea Nic had a sister. Who knows what she can do to them, knowing she was the sister of the great Luminous of Fairy Tail.
Eventually, things settled down, and Nic looked at everyone. "Guys, this is my sister, so be nice." He then casted a shadow over his eyes. "Because if one of you makes her sad or cries, I will hunt you down, and then destroy you!" He threatened menacingly, to which everyone complied with no questions. So hitting on her was out of the question, as they realized they'd lose their lives.
Lily and Vanessa got their Guild emblems, Lily on his back, and Vanessa got hers on her left arm, like Erza. Her emblem was teal, as to where Lily's was white. As the evening pressed on, Natsu went on and on about how they were in Edolas, and Nic toldthe group to be discreet about Kalos, so they made safety measures when speaking about Kalos, not talking about the assailant was one of them. Of course, everyone heard their counterparts from the group themselves, and looks of shock were plastered, and then the usual fighting, in which Vanessa's Krokorok took apart in.
"LET ME TELL YOU SOMETHING FAIRY TAIL MEMBERS THAT ARE COMICALLY BASHING THE OTHER IN RELENTLESS FASHION, WITH NO REGARDS TO FURNITURE DAMAGE! KROKOROK WANTS IN TOO!"
All Vanessa could do was just sigh and sit on the sidelines until things dialed down.
Sophie went up to her. "So Vanessa, what are you gonna do now, since you're gonna live here?" She asked.
Vanessa was slightly left surprised. She didn't necessarily put any thought into it. "I…I guess I should find a place, and possibly train." She stated, looking back at her Krokorok throwing bodies. "Like Nic said and did, I can't rely on them always, but they do got it where it counts."
Sophie smiled in understanding. "I know what you mean. Pokémon sure are interesting creatures…oh!" Sophie just sprouted, to which Vanessa turned towards her in curiosity. "I got it! Why not stay at my place?"
Vanessa was left startled. "W-Whoa! You mean you want me to stay at your place until I can get a place of my own?"
Sophie served her sight here and there. "Mmmm, kind of. I have an extra room in my place. It'll be like having a roommate!"
Upon this idea, Vanessa squealed and the two hugged. "YAY! ROOMMATES!" They squealed in unison. Sophie was also glad that Vanessa didn't choose Fairy Hills, mainly due to the rent, at least Vanessa gets a free place.
"Thank you so much Sophie!"
Sophie pulled away and looked back at Nic, who was still sitting on a table in the corner in a small coma from being exceedingly tired, and naturally, Erza was there. "That's what friends are for. I'm sure Nic would appreciate it greatly."
"Yeah…on that note…" Sophie turned towards Vanessa, who spoke with some hesitation. "If I'm going to be a member, I guess I need to learn Magic, right?"
Sophie blinked. "Huh…I guess you have a point."
Mira went up and smiled as usual. "Don't worry, there's plenty of Magic in the library you can look up on." She cheerfully said. "Magic isn't easy…" She turned towards the rowdy guild ahead of her. "But if you put your heart and mind into it, your Magic will blossom into something beautiful. It takes time, so now rush."
Vanessa smiled happily from Mira's attitude. "Right, thanks Mira!"
Nic wasn't sure what Magic his sister was learning, considering she always practiced with her own Pokémon, with Sophie helping out when she can. Nic could possibly guess since Vanessa pops in and out of the library, she's looking and using all sorts of different books. He once saw his sister carrying a few books on Water and Lightning Magic.
Nic then thought back to three days ago, a few days after he got healed.
Everyone gathered. All Fairy Tail members grouped in front of the stage, watching the green curtain rise. In front was Master Makarov, adorned in his ceremonial cloak. On his left were Mira and Gildarts, and on his right were Nic and Erza, all four standing and giving serious vibes.
"Tell us!" "No more waiting!" "It's finally time!" Many Fairy Tail Mages were getting antsy. When Master cleared his throat, everyone became silent.
"In accordance with Fairy Tail's time of year and annual tradition, I will now announce the participants of the S-Class trials exam!" He announced, with everyone cheering briefly.
Natsu enflamed himself. "I'm all fired up now! That S-Class titlel is as good as mine!"
"Please be quiet everyone!" Erza announced.
"The Master has yet to inform you guys, so keep silent until the end." Nic announced right after, in which everyone did.
Master took a pause. "The trials for this year shall be held at Tenrou Island, our Guild's sacred grounds." He explained, and he raised a fist. "The strength you have kept dormant shall be tested, as well as your hearts, and your hard work! And so, I have chosen nine candidates this year."
Master then began to announce the names. "Natsu Dragneel." Natsu kept a serious face as he was chosen.
"Gray Fullbuster." Gray smiled when he heard his name.
"Juvia Lockster." Juvia heard her name and she blushed, thinking she would be participating with Gray.
"Elfman Strauss." Elfman had arms crossed and had manliness in his smirk.
"Cana Alberona." Though Cana heard her name, she didn't seem that enthusiastic.
"Freed Justine." Freed nodded humbly up on being accepted.
"Sophie Lednick." Sophie jerked upon being accepted, but seemed highly enthusiastic nonetheless.
"Levy McGarden." Levy looked really excited, and Jet and Droy cheered behind her.
"And finally, Mest Gryder." Upon hearing his name, a man with black hair looked on. The hair was short, a crisscross scar on the left side of his face, sideburns, turquoise eyes, and a red pinstriped jacket with red and orange stripes. He also had a high collar, and brown arm warmers, black ants, and white shoes.
After some brief commotions were exchange, with Nic looking on with his sunglasses on his V-neck, Master spoke once more. "Though nine Mages were selected, only one shall emerge victorious. The trial shall be in one week, so you better prepare!
"Hey! How come I wasn't picked?!" Gajeel shouted.
Lily looked over at Gajeel. "My guess is that they don't trust you that much."
Gajeel snapped back at Lily. "So not true! They can all trust me just fine!" He then thought as to how he was an undercover spy in Raven Tail under Makarov's request. "…I, uh, just don't have my business with them."
Lily snickered. "Take it up with Nic and Erza."
Erza had crossed arms with a glint on her face. "Sorry, but you're not ready yet."
"You heard her." Nic said, agreeing with her.
"You all suck!" Gajeel shouted.
After the commotion dialed down once more, Master cleared his throat once more. "Since there are quite a few newcomers this year, I can have an exception to the matter pressing ahead."
Mira then spoke. "The nine participants will each choose a partner. This person will also be allowed to train with them until the trials."
Sophie blinked. "Partners? Huh, didn't see that coming?"
"Take note of these two rules when choosing your partner." Erza announced. "Number one: They must be a member of Fairy Tail; and Number Two: Your choice can't be an S-Class Mage."
"Further details will be explained at the trials next week, but know this." Nic announced, remembering what the S-Class Mages discussed before getting onstage. "Getting past Erza and I will be a part of the trials." Upon this, everyone paled, thinking how sorry they'd feel if they went up against the two, aiming Mira and Gildarts as well.
"The nine candidates and their partners will meet at the port of Hargeon a week from today. You are dismissed." After being dismissed by Master, everyone started getting back to their usual business.
Pretty soon, the partners were set, and it wasn't that big of a surprise when Nic heard that Sophie chose Vanessa to be her partner. Though this thought wasn't too comforting. If he had to fight her, he'd have to be very easy on her, let alone not hurt her at all.
Though the S-Class Mages were meant to prepare as well, Nic took today to go on a job and tonight to clear his head. He wasn't supposed to meet with Mira, Erza, and Gildarts until the day after tomorrow, where they would go over the rules and guidelines when at Tenrou Island.
Thinking about it, Nic was left in question, stopping and crouching on a branch. "…I'll be fine Kecleon." He answered. Kecleon stopped by his side and tilted her head again. "This whole S-Class trial sounds great to them, and I couldn't be happier for Cana and Sophie being chosen, but Vanessa participating when she hardly knows Magic is a little nerve-wracking.
"You know what I say?" Kecleon asked, making Nic turn with curiosity. "You best eat the cake even without the glazing."
Nic blinked, smirking at the same time. "Right, take my chances." He interpreted without hesitation. He then looked ahead, calmly looking into the darkness ahead. "I guess I should put my faith in Vanessa, she does have her own team and friends."
Nic then slowly stood back up on the branch and straightened up. After a long moment, he looked back at Kecleon's tilted head. "I think we've traveled long and far enough. Let's head-!"
A faint scream was heard in the distance, slight echoes traveling through the air. Nic and Kecleon jerked in sheer surprise and their heads turned back up front.
"What was that?" Nic asked.
Kecleon tilted her head. "A scream of help." She said. She then tilted her head back up. "We must pursuit!"
Nic crouched. "You read my mind." The two then picked up speed once more, heading ways into the dark forest. Nic and Kecleon made haste, keeping as quiet as ninjas as they jumped from tree to tree, from branch to branch, light on their feet.
Shortly after…
Close to a waterfall's base, on the shores, there was a girl, possibly no older than Wendy. She had black hair that was curled up on both sides of her head, like two swirled curls, in which the bangs framed her face. She had a purple dress with light purple edging, with a circle of various purple shading that was bright on her chest area. She had purple arm warmers, and her green eyes were weeping.
She felt very helpless, as she hugged her knees, unable to do anything but quiver.
"You're staying here." She heard her father's voice echo through her mind, replaying what happened a few hours back.
The young girl was on the trail, tears in her eyes, shuddering as her father stood before her, disappointed. Her father was tall, elderly, muscular man, with giant, red beads around his neck. He had a rather large, pointed nose, white eyes that didn't show pupils, and light facial hair, which was a beard, moustache, and the rest of hair tied behind his head. The eyes were outlined in white, and he had a Guild Mark that was purple that resembled a tiger's head on his forehead. His head also had a hat that was dome-like, with spiked edging, and black and purple all about. His muscular body was draped by a one-arm top-piece, was red with white edging, covering only his left arm, with the right arm having a purple wrapped-up armband. He also had dark yellow pants with black zigzags running down, with simple brown shoes.
The father looked with pity at his daughter. "Abandon your weaknesses and embrace only strength and fear nothing." He said. "No tears are aloud, ever." The daughter was continuing to shudder, and she couldn't even move out of fear.
"This forest is full of monsters that'll devour the weak., and only death is suitable to those who dare cry." He then turned his back and walked off, fading in the darkness of the forest. "You shall not return until you've grown stronger, and shed no tears."
"Please…please forgive me." She muttered, still shaking. "Forgive me…please…please…" She heard some water move, and some snarling from behind, the girl slowly turned her head in fear and witnessed fairly large alligator-like monsters about to pounce on her.
She couldn't move as they went to sink their teeth into her…
"Sludge Wave!" Suddenly, before anything could happen, a large stream of sludge swamped the incoming monsters. The beasts all wailed and fell on their sides with powerful thuds as the girl was left in shock.
Nic appeared out of the blue, landing in front of the girl, shielding her from harm. Nic turned to look back at the girl. "Are you okay?" He asked, seeing her respond by shuddering a little.
The beasts all got back to their feet, the three or four all having bad tastes in their mouths. They turned back towards Nic and the girl, snarling. They went to attack, but before they could advance, a fast glint that was a red stripe dashed in front, a Slash gashing at them all, leaving the wailing some more, their bodies all falling back head and backs first into the flowing stream of water, away from them.
Kecleon reappeared in front, alongside Nic. "Nice job, Kelceon." Nic commented.
"We brought the pain." She replied in her creepy, innocent, monotone voice. The little girl was left in awe at how Nic and Kecleon just saved her. She was left shocked as she was shown mercy. Kecleon looked back at her. "Hello."
Nic shifted back into himself, his brief glow surprising the girl once more. "Are you okay?" He asked, to which the girl gulped. Nic took a pause and saw the scared look in her eyes, filled with pain and merciless grief.
Nic, recognizing this glance from past experience, took a calmer approach. He crouched down to eye level her, looking at her with a gentle gaze. "Hey, it's okay. The monsters are gone." He said, gently. "There's nothing to be scared of. You're safe now."
Hearing those words brought the girl to tears again. Finally, she was shown mercy, after what her father had done. But then, she gasped, remembering her father.
"Crush all weak worms that stand under you. Defeat everyone and anyone. Only defeat and death awaits those who seek mercy."
She then choked a little, and she suddenly began to blur, much to Nic and Kecleon's shock. Nic suddenly found himself in the exact spot where she was, and she was in his.
Nic gasped. "Wait, what just-!" He then saw her attack with a kick, but Nic's second-nature reflexes made him block with his left arm. He then swatted her away, making her skid back. She was left a little shocked Nic blocked her attack without much effort.
"Did she just use some Magic to switch our positions?" Nic muttered to Kecleon.
Kecleon looked back at Minerva, keeping an eye on her. "Yes. She did the switcheroo." Kecleon then turned and stepped ahead at Minerva, who saw her advance. The young girl jerked back, and Kecleon stopped, so as to see her frightened expression. "She is scared, heavily."
Nic took a moment, considering what to do. He quickly made a plan. He didn't move, but got into a less defensive stance. "It's okay. I'm not here to hurt you." He said calmly and gently, making the girl ease. "I won't harm you, I just want to know if you're alright."
The girl choke as Nic was being someone to help her for once, and she hesitated before she finally dropped her guard, easing.
Nic grinned slightly, seeing the progress being made. "That's it. I mean it, I won't harm you, and neither will Kecleon."
"My claws are to myself."
The girl slowly inched closer and closer, and soon enough, she finally stood in front of Nic. She finally broke down, sobbing to her knees, tears falling at last. "Please…I'm so sorry…forgive me…" She spat out.
Nic looked back at Kecleon, who was just as struck as he was. "I think it's something bad other than her putting the hurt on you." Kecleon said.
Nic looked down at the girl, her head close to the ground. "…yeah, I agree." As she continued to sob, Nic crouched down and put a gentle hand on her head. "It's okay, just let it all out. You're safe." The girl then suddenly sprung up and cried as she squeezed Nic in comfort, and Nic was initially shocked, but got over it after a few moments. Though he felt her tears on his left side, he just provided himself as a comfort and gently hugged her back.
After a couple of minutes, the girl finally calmed down and pulled away. She sniffled and looked back up at Nic, her attitude seemingly placid. "Thank you for saving my life." She replied.
Nic stood back up, with Kecleon by his side. "You're welcome. We were fortunate to have heard you while we were still out here."
"The call of anguish beckoned us to stop it." Kecleon said.
The girl was confused. "What?"
"She said we heard your cry of help and we came to stop it." He interpreted. "On that note, what are you doing out here all by yourself?"
The girl then meekly looked back down to the grass as the waterfall was heard in the background. "I was told to stay here until I got stronger."
Nic and Kecleon both looked at the other and back at the girl. Nic looked down at her. "Do you have a name?"
The girl looked up at her hero and sniffled. "Minerva."
"Okay, Minerva. I'm Nic, and this is my trusted buddy, Kecleon." Kecleon simply tilted her head. Nic continued. "Listen, can you tell me who told you to stay out here?"
"…*sniffle*…m-my father."
Nic's mouth slightly opened in shock. He was stuck processing what she said. Her actual father told her to stay out in the woods, full of savage monsters, and continue to do so until she got stronger. Even with this information, he couldn't make quick accusations.
"…Your father, you say?" Nic asked. "Why?" Minerva hesitated, small tears forming again, her body beginning to shudder. Remembering why her father did such a thing left her uneasy. Nic tried to ask again. "Was there a reason why he made you stay out here?"
Minerva blinked as the tears fell and she slowly relaxed, knowing that Nic was here to help. "My father. He's a horrible man. He believes that I'm not strong enough…" Minerva went into detail, about how her father pushed her to the mental breaking point, and was thoroughly abused for apologizing constantly.
Minerva was on her knees, small tears in her eyes. "Please forgive me." She asked.
Her father towered above her, glowering down at her. "You beg for mercy?" He exclaimed. "No daughter of mine will beg for mercy!" He then slapped her across the face, making her fall over.
Minerva continued to beg. "I'm sorry! Forgive me!"
"Don't you get that I won't tolerate being asked for forgiveness?" He exclaimed, his voice booming with animosity. "What a weakling, unacceptable! I eliminate the weak, even if it's my own flesh and blood."
Nic was left paralyzed, shock in the eyes. His pupils nearly shook, startled that Minerva had been abused just like he was.
Minerva continued with some slight hesitation and sobbing. "…H-he…"
Minerva wiped her eyes of the tears as she battled against Fingers, a member of her Guild. He had a bandaged face, with thick gloves and a muscular body. He was picked to battle against Minerva.
Minerva's father stood on a cliff, spectating. "If you can breathe, you can move!" He barked. "Attacking is everything! Even the inferior must strive for strength!"
Fingers then put his arms out and made blue fire, and Minerva put her arms out, put showed great hesitation. Minerva was hit with the attack, and she was sent flying back, dust scattering. Minerva struggled to get up, and she huffed.
"Stand up!" Her father shouted. "Or you shall never stand again! Fingers!"
Fingers obeyed and put both fists out, and attacked with blue flames again. Luckily, Minerva was able to jump and dodge, seeing rock shatter underneath her.
"Your open!" Fingers shouted, appearing right behind her in mid-air. Minerva panicked, and with quick wits, she surged great energy, and switched their positions in mid-air. Fingers was left shocked and suddenly found himself on the receiving end of a kick that sent him crashing to the ground.
Her father spectated. "…Territory Magic?"
When Minerva landed, she saw Fingers unleash a massive blue fire vortex, which shook the ground slightly. Minerva saw the attack incoming, and switched positions again. Fingers was then seen confused, but was swallowed by his own attack, making an explosion as Minerva huffed in relief as she was safe.
Dust and rock flew about and she continued to huff, when everything settled, she looked back and saw Fingers lying on the ground. She then looked concerned. "Hey, are you alright?" She shouted in concern, but Fingers was seen groaning.
"Do not waste your time!" Her father barked. "Now, are you going to finish him or not?!"
"B-But…"
"The weak is defeated, and the weak must be crushed!"
Minerva was left still, shuddering heavily. "B-But Fingers is a part of our guild…" She trailed off as she was left in disbelief."
Her father was unmoved. "That means nothing to me. No weakling shall be a part of my guild! You are my daughter! Sympathy is for the weak!" He then turned towards the fallen Fingers. "If you won't dispose of the weakling, then I'll show you how…"
He then extended an arm out at Fingers. "Begone worm!"
Fingers was then swallowed in a purple dome light, and Minerva looked with horror. "NO!" A powerful explosion centered around Fingers, barely anything flying. After the light vanished, there was a crater and Fingers gloves and shoes.
Seeing Fingers get blown up right before her eyes, Minerva dropped to her knees and sobbed. "H-How could you?" She then sobbed in mourning.
Her fathered snickered. "Tears are for the weak Minerva, and the weak must perish."
"Please…I'm so sorry…forgive me…forgive me…"
As Minerva cried at last, finally telling what happened as of recently, Nic and Kecleon alike were both drenched in shattered horror. No words came to them, as Minerva was abused, and purposely pit in a death match against a now deceased guild mate.
Hearing all of this, Nic's past resurfaced, and his fingers twitched as the painful memories of the punching, the Spark Magneton constantly used, and the confrontation, where he was stabbed and shocked until he couldn't feel the ground beneath him. He was seeping extreme anger, and it was starting to show with his teeth showing as he gritted them, shuddering.
He didn't even realize his hands were balled so tight they became white in the knuckles. His vision came back and he snapped out of his thoughts a moment later, and saw Minerva weeping in front of him. Nic was left to just stare. All he could think about was his past and how he suffered for it, and now Minerva was going through the same thing.
A shadow was over Nic's eye. "…no, not again." He said, making Minerva sniffle and look up at him. "I can't have this happen again." He crouched down towards Minerva, his eyes being that neutral, warm blue again. He was frowning mournfully, as was Kecleon, picking up his mood.
Minerva calmed down once more, and Kecleon lowered her head. "We're sorry for your guild mates curtain closing too soon." She said sorrowfully.
"We're truly sorry for what happened to Fingers." Nic said. "Like Kecleon said, he didn't deserve such a fate in the hands of a tyrant."
Minerva let more tears fall. "*sniffle* Why did this have to happen? Why me?"
Nic looked mournfully at Minerva, and he took in a deep breath and looked at his trusted Kecleon. Kecleon looked back at Nic with the same mournful vibe. "I think you should share your popcorn, Nic."
"…with butter?"
Kecleon nodded. "For her, yes."
Nic understood and he put a gentle hand on Minerva's shoulder. "Minerva, I'm truly sorry, and no child should ever go through what we went through."
Minerva stopped crying and looked confused. "We?"
Nic nodded. "Minerva…you and I are much alike, and that's why I'm telling you it's okay to be weak. There's nothing wrong with being weak as long as you're protecting what's precious to you." Nic looked away. "I suffered the same fate you did. I too was abused…"
Nic then told the young girl how he was physically abused, glass dropped on him, shocked until he could no longer feel anything, basically going in depth how he was a pulp at the end of every day in the hands of his parents. As the story progressed, Minerva was left deeper and deeper in shock.
"And it was all to keep my sister safe." Nic finished. "I may have suffered, and I may have been weak, but I endured it, and I stayed strong so that my sister wouldn't be a victim." He then stood up, and looked down at her. "I may have suffered from a cruel hand, but that doesn't mean you should."
Minerva looked shocked. "Nic…"
"I'll free you from your shackles, and I'll make sure your father never hurts you again. I won't take any abuse; not now, not ever, even if it's someone else. You deserve to be happy Minerva, and I'll stop your father yet."
Minerva shot back up. "R-Really?! But you can't! He's so strong!" She shouted. "He'll blow you up, and you'll die!" She then went wide-eyed and gasped, seeing a smile on Nic's face.
Nic kept his confidence high, for Minerva's sake. "Nothing's killed me so far. Trust me Minerva, your father is gonna regret ever crossing with me."
"Minerva, can you take us to your leader?" Kecleon asked.
Minerva really didn't want to go back, and she clenched her fist, but Nic sore to put an end to her father's abusive behavior, and have Minerva be free.
"I-I don't…if I go back…"
"Minerva." Nic said, turning towards her and kneeling down to her height. "Like I said, it's okay. You can be weak, admitting that you're weak is the first step to becoming strong. You'll be fine Minerva, just let me guide you down that path."
"…" Minerva paused, and then she slowly began walking, with herself leading the way. She was scared, but with Nic and his Kecleon, she could finally have a chance at feeling relief in her life, and be forgiven.
When Minerva took them to her town, where her guild was. As they progressed, Nic felt a very odd feeling, starting from the spot where Minerva was dropped off by her father. As they moved forward beyond that point, as small signal began booming about inside Nic, making him narrow his eyes and façade a blank expression, despite feeling this power.
Kecleon looked at Nic knowingly. "Ping?"
Nic slowly nodded back. "Ping."
Later…
Nic and Kecleon both stood in front of a Guild Hall, which was much like a castle. There was a lot of purple banners with a tiger's head on it. "Is this it?" Nic asked.
"Looks roomy." Kecleon stated, tilting her head.
Minerva swallowed. "Yeah, this is the Sabertooth Guild, my father's guild." She said weakly. "My father's inside, and the town is uneasy."
"I can understand why." Nic stated. His eyes narrowed as the signal was incredibly strong, and the Plates inside could sense a Plate, of which was inside the Sabertooth Guild Hall. "This might complicate things." He muttered. He looked back down at Minerva, seeing a little plea in her eyes.
Nic, relating to her, straightened up, and he narrowed his eyes even more. "I'll handle both situations then."
"All aboard." Kecleon said. "Let's give him a ticket to the pain train!" Nic couldn't agree more with his odd pal, and the three made way inside.
They soon found themselves walking on a red carpet, which many of the guild mates giving confused and uneasy stares at Nic and his Kecleon as they passed by. They never seen him, nor did they know who he was, just this determined vibe he gave off was startling them, so they followed him from behind until they reached the largest chamber in the Guild Hall, where Nic's signal was going off like crazy.
'So the Plate is inside here.' Nic thought. 'It seems this is her father's quarters. I'll have no choice but to take him down and then get it.'
Nic slowly opened the doors, and Kecleon shielded a scared Minerva as they proceeded. As expected, the chamber could've fit the entire guild's members. The red carpet lead to a throne atop of some stairs, with drapes hanging from the corners.
"Hm?" A groan from the throne got attention. "Who dares walk into my Guild Hall?" He demanded. He looked as Nic, Kecleon, and his daughter proceeded inside. The guild members all looked on with high suspicions and guards if Nic tried to pull any funny tricks, as they were highly antsy.
"Who are you?" He demanded. "You dare to enter Jiemma of Sabertooth's domain? Without any regards? Heh?" Jiemma noticed that his daughter was behind Nic's Kecleon, and he saw her shaking. Recognizing her, Jiemma stood up. "Minerva? What are you doing here? I left you out there earlier and I told you to never show your face until I don't see anymore of those-!"
Nic crossed his arms and glared coldly. "Jiemma of Sabertooth." Nic announced, making him stop talking. "I don't appreciate you or how you handle your own daughter, leaving her out in the wilderness."
"You're the animal!" Kecleon scolded Jiemma. "Monsters are nothing compared to your beastliness!"
Jiemma eyes twitched. "I don't know what you want, but for all I care, you're nothing more than intruders. I should just have my guild rid of you right now, including that thing other there." When referring to Minerva, she gritted her teeth and shuddered.
All Nic did was stay solid and kept a cold glare on Jiemma. "Minerva is a human being, not a slave you troll." He pointed an accusing finger at him. "You aren't fit to even be on that damn throne if you can't even show compassion and love to family!"
"What did you just say?" Jiemma asked coldly, his anger spiking.
Kecleon stood in front, by Nic's side. "You may be the leader, but you are no parent! Go crawl back under your bridge!"
Jiemma growled, his Magic beginning to spike. Everyone else entered the chamber, clustered against the wall so as to watch.
"Jiemma, I came across your daughter in the forest. She needs to be around those who she can trust, and not fear death every day of her life." Nic then turned his back looked at the guild members gathered. "Sabertooth, hear me out. Do you honestly think what Jiemma is thinking is fair? Fearing death or possible excommunication? If you sympathize, then please, lend me your eyes and ears." Nic and Kecleon looked back at Jiemma. "Though he may be a Guild Master, that position means nothing if conviction is solemnly for power."
Kecleon tilted her head, and then tilted it back. "The pursuit of happiness is a powerful drive, and the course of power will only make you crash. Don't go down that course, stay on the path of happiness."
Hearing this, some Sabertooth members were raising brows and began questioning a little, to which Minerva looked back with some surprise.
Of course, Jiemma wasn't pleased. "You puny insect, preaching to Sabertooth. You don't belong here. Insects that worship comradery and happiness only get exterminated."
Nic turned back towards Jiemma. "You're wrong, and by the time Kecleon and I finish you, your guild and your daughter will see how wrong your beliefs are."
"Nic." Minerva muttered.
Jiemma stepped forward, his footstep booming. His power was shown to have escalated even more, and he clenched his fists. "What my daughter is to me is none of your business. You better leave better I decide to blow you away, insects."
"Your daughter is my business!" Nic shouted. "The second I heard you abused her for strength, that's when it got personal! Minerva should be free to have friends and comrades, not a tyrant of a father."
Jiemma then spiked in power even more. "You fool! This is Sabertooth! We will rise to the top! And family is of no essence. Perhaps I need to show you what happens when you face me. Look up there!" Jiemma pointed up over the throne, and looked turned his gaze up a little and his eyes slowly went wide.
There it was, a brick-red Plate, engraved in a golden frame. It hung up on the wall behind Jiemma, and Jiemma's veins popped out as he was engulfed in his aura.
"That Plate symbolizes Sabertooth's will; and with it, our strength shall escalate until we crush all beneath us!" He announced.
Nic and Kecleon both got nervous, seeing as how the Fist Plate was in the Sabertooth guild. "They must have found it one day." Nic theorized. "And from the way it looks, it seems to rile up the fighting spirits close to it."
Kecleon remained quiet. "What about the little lady?"
Nic turned to look back at a worried Minerva, as she was shuddering a little. It was clear that she was worried, and Nic had to make sure that he gives Minerva the freedom she deserves. Nic turned back ahead. "Don't worry, we'll get the message through."
"My guess is that it's a personal message." Kecleon then readied herself. "Let's unshackle those chains!"
Jiemma pointed at Nic and Kecleon. "Challenging me shall be the last thing you will ever do insects! This'll be over in but a moment." Jiemma, fumed with power, began to quake the ground underneath slightly.
"Is that guy a fool?!" "Is he really gonna take on our Master?! That's suicide!" "Whoever he is, he's out of his mind!" "Is this because of the Master's daughter?" Many people were giving comments left and right, and Jiemma was colliding opinions head-on with Nic.
"Fear me before you die!" Jiemma extended an arm out, and the area around Nic was engulfed in light purple, and a powerful force of energy escalated around Nic, but he kept a strong face.
Recognizing Jiemma's Blast Magic, Minerva grew fearful. "Nic!" She shouted, and then witnessed Jiemma's hand opening up, and a burst on the red carpet happened, making a purple explosion that left a smoldering crater.
Minerva, seeing her only chance at freedom get blown up just like Fingers, quivered and sank to her knees, tears starting to rise.
Jiemma looked at the spot and snickered. "Hmph. As I said, insects." He then looked ahead at his guild, seeing them with surprised expressions. "This is what happens when those defy our power. We make the heavens roar…to make the land shake…to silence the seas, that is Sabertooth." He then looked at his near-sobbing daughter, and was appalled by her.
"As for you, you insect, no daughter of mine is gonna cry. I'll see to it that you stay out there where you belong until you're dry of tear-!" Jiemma was suddenly silence when he was given a knee to the top of his head, catered by Nic, making the muscular Guild Master smash into the ground below.
Everyone's mouths gaped wide in shock as Nic had actually survived, and he looked different, being in his Dread Plate Form. Minerva went wide-eyed and gasped as Nic was seen alive.
Nic backflipped off of Jiemma and landed behind him. The tyrannical Guild Master got back to his two feet and clenched his fists tightly. "Why you-!" As Jiemma turned back, he was struck in the abdomen by a shadow going upwards, and he stumbled back towards his guild and got to a knee. Jiemma grunted as he saw Kecleon close by Nic, having said used Shadow Sneak.
"Nice shot Kecleon." Nic commented.
Jiemma stood back up in anger, growling as his purple aura returned. He clenched his abdomen, ignoring his head pain.
"How did you dodge?!" Jiemma scowled angrily.
Nic changed his stance into a relaxed yet defensive one. "Simple, I shifted to another Plate and used Feint Attack, vanishing in time. Your Blast Magic, however, was only able to target me, and Kecleon worked her way around and struck you."
Kecelon tilted her head. "Score one for the good guys!"
"You may be fast, but speed alone will never beat power." Jiemma's purple aura then expanded slightly. "I'll make you see that!" Jiemma then extended an arm out, letting a battlecry emanate as the ground underneath Nic shook.
Nic anticipated it and jerked to his left, evading the blast wave that engulfed the area where he stood. He grunted in distress. 'I gotta get that Plate. I have to at least get close enough so that I can absorb it. But then he'll blast me, so that means there has to be a diversion.' Jiemma continued to move his arm out and his purple aura spiked, small domes of his Blast Magic trailing towards Nic as he constantly moved left, dashing and flipping.
Nic leaped, dodging a blast wave and landed his feet on the wall, jumping off and heading towards Jiemma. "Crunch!" Nic opened his mouth and his canines elongated and glowed. Jiemma snickered and didn't even move an inch as he used his right arm to block, having his forearm get bit into. Even when Nic's feet landed on the ground, Jiemma didn't even budge an inch.
"So tell me, is that the best you can do?" Jiemma swatted his arm, prying Nic off and sending him skidding backwards.
As he skidded back, Nic turned his head towards Kecleon. "I got this, get the Plate!"
"Got it!" Kecleon then turned invisible, but just left her red stripe visible. When Jiemma turned towards Kecleon, he only saw her red striping, and he used his Blast Magic, but the Color Swap Pokémon jumped and evaded the first dome explosion, rattling the ground and leaving her airborne. Kecleon then turned towards Jiemma in mid-air. "Screech!" Kecleon then emanated red shockwaves, while still invisible, and Jiemma was swallowed in them, grunting as he covered his ears.
Jiemma had trouble hearing as Screech echoed like crazy, and he was left distracted long enough so as Nic could get in close. Nic jumped into the air on Jiemma's right side, and he swung his leg. "Assurance!" Nic's leg hit Jiemma's face, right in the nose. Jiemma sailed back several feet, but kept his feet on the ground. When he finished skidding, Nic let loose another attack. "Dark Pulse!" The endless stream of black and purple went after Jiemma, making some dust fly as it sailed close to the ground. Jiemma extended his arm out, and the Dark Pulse plowed right into his palm, making a small ripple in the air, as the intensity of the attack only made Jiemma skid back a couple feet.
Still launching Dark Pulse from his palms, Nic narrowed his eyes. Jiemma chuckled. "Not bad. You do have potential, but even so, I won't lose to an insect like you-!" Jiemma's gaze took note of the Plate engraved in then golden frame being absent. Even though he was fending with one hand against Dark Pulse, he was left distracted so Kecleon could pillage it.
"The symbol of Sabertooth!" "That little chameleon thing stole it!" Many Sabertooth members were left shocked that Kecleon stole it, and Minerva was left surprised.
Nic grunted as he was continuing Dark Pulse. "I was never yours to begin with!" He exclaimed, much to Jiemma's annoyance. "That Plate is a part of something very important for all to live, and I won't tolerate your selfish wishes to use it for your own gain!" Kecleon appeared behind Nic, holding the Fist Plate in front.
Jiemma and Minerva, as well as all of Sabertooth, looked in shock as Nic stopped Dark Pulse, and his body shined, and the Plate Kecleon held up as well. The Plate levitated its way out of Kecleon's claws and Nic turned back as he saw the Fist Plate get drawn towards him. Nic openly accepted the Plate, and Sabertooth watched as a bright light blinded them. They all were unable to see Nic merge with the Fist Plate, as to where Nic felt a great rushed of hundreds, of thousands of years of combat styles, focus, and prowess seep and course through every cell in his body, working towards his center.
When the light faded, even Jiemma was left gazing with some hint of surprise. Even Minerva, as well as Sabertooth itself, awed as Nic's attire changed. Nic had his sunglasses hanging on the red-orange sash on his waist, which acted as the belt for his baggy orange pants. He had on no shirt, which showed his naturally toned upper body. His shoes were gone, giving way to bare feet, and his sleeveless coat was orange, with red bricks that escalated from the bottom of the coat to the thighs.
"Jiemma, what you've witnessed is the least of your worries." Nic announced, paying no heed to his new Fist Plate Form. He clenched a fist. "Your biggest concern…" He started running ahead, and he subconsciously swelled energy in his right fist, engulfing it in red-orange aura. "Is the well-being of your daughter!" Jiemma was still left in shock from seeing Nic fuse with something he found, and he was hit in the face head-on with Power-Up Punch. Jiemma skid back, making a trail in the ground until he crashed into a nearby wall.
Nic's fist was left sizzling, and he huffed as his complete focus was enhanced by the Fist Plate, and he whipped his fist back, relieving it of the steam. He kept a calm and serious gaze when Jiemma arose from the wall, and growled. Once again, Nic and Kecleon felt a major energy spike, and they knew Jiemma was beyond furious.
The ground beneath Jiemma shattered as he let loose a powerful tremor, one that rattled the whole guild, and everyone but Nic and Kecleon lost their balance. Jiemma was releasing a lot of pressure, and the crater under him expanded a few more feet.
"You took Sabertooth's symbol!" He growled menacingly. "For that, I will gut you right before you die!"
"You had no claims to something that wasn't yours to begin with." Nic explained. He crouched as he cracked his knuckles, Kecleon also readied herself. "What I absorbed may have strengthened your fighting will, but it means nothing if you have nothing to fight for!"
Nic dashed ahead, small winds picked up upon his mad and powerful dash, with Kecleon right beside. Nic's feet glowed as he dashed after Jiemma. And Kecleon's claws glowed and elongated. "It's monsters like you that we loathe!" Kecleon announced, her weird and creepy, monotone voice sounding serious. "Bad guys like you make me sick, despite that I'm already green!"
"Double Kick!"
"Slash!"
Both attacks struck Jiemma in the abdomen, and all Jiemma did was budge a bit and suffer a tear in his robe. Jiemma tensed up, grunting heavily, and let loose a close-range shockwave that echoed about, making the Sabertooth members stay down as some rock flew. Nic and Kecleon sailed back and maintained their footing as they skid back to a screeching halt. Jiemma scowled angrily and clenched his fists harder, and his aura shined around his body, and shockwaves and winds palpitated around the chamber, making nearby guild members flew back, and Nic and Kecleon had to cover up, as the pressure he was giving off was intense.
Nic grunted, losing ground. Jiemma's power just kept pumping out, and he and Kecleon both eventually ended up pressed against the wall, the winds from the shockwaves keeping them from moving ahead. Unfortunately for them, that left Jiemma two targets.
"I have you know, you punks!" As the tremors echoed and rampaged in the guild, Jiemma let loose a blast wave in Nic and Kecleon's positions. Minerva was pretty much scared as Nic was about to be swallowed up in Jiemma's attack. Nic and Kecleon, however, weren't smart for any reason.
"Kecleon!" Nic shouted as the light and intensity was enhancing.
Kecleon turned her head towards him, mouth open as winds pressed her mouth against the wall. "Got it! Shadow Sneak!" She muffled, and under Jiemma, the shadow thickened and stretched out from underneath, striking with past and powerful precision under Jiemma's chin, making him gag as his head reeled back from that Shadow Sneak uppercut, hitting his head against the wall, momentarily making him feel hazy and pain. His Blast Magic and shockwaves ceased, and he was seen falling forwards.
Unstuck from the wall, Nic and Kecleon both pried themselves and straightened out, getting any residue off of them. "We almost went out with a bang." Kecleon said.
"True, and I hardly doubt janitors would clean up that mess." Nic stated, getting slight humor before ascertaining his focus.
Kecleon then turned her head, seeing Jiemma on a knee. "But there's one big mess that's still needs to be cleaned up." Good thing Kecleon always got her point across, in any way Nic could translate and interpret.
Nic grinned. "Right, so let's go!"
Both Nic and Kecleon then went in to attack Jiemma, who quickly recovered from the sudden blow. He saw the two lunging and he lashed an arm ahead, making the area ahead of them explode in a vast blast wave that made them stop in their tracks and jerk back to gain a safe distance.
Jiemma growled and looked aggressively at Nic and his Kecleon. "You two are beyond aggravating. Coming here and bringing back a weak insect, now assaulting while taking something that was mine and mine alone." His tone was very dark, and he was very angry, as shown by his veins popping out. "You and that lizard are ruining Sabertooth's chance to dominate everyone."
Nic remained pause as he stared coldly at Jiemma. "…Sabertooth, or you?"
This sparked some curiosity among everyone, as they recovered and watched the battle, hearing Nic and Jiemma briefly talk.
"I know people much like you. Couldn't care less what Minerva is. You just want to make her strong and nothing more; otherwise she'd be trash that you want to kick to the curb, right?" Minerva listened carefully to what Nic said. "Minerva doesn't deserve a father like you. She can be strong however she seems fit!"
Jiemma wasn't moved. "Minerva is none of your concern boy. She's my daughter, and I can use her however I see fit, whether it'd be for power or for something to crush!" The aura around Jiemma returned again. "Family is a sign of weakness, something Sabertooth shall never have."
Nic clenched his fists. "That's not true! Family is something that makes everybody strong! Even if it's just one person, if that one person is worth protecting, then you have to put everything on the line!" Nic then lunged after Jiemma again. "Protecting those closest to you will bring out your true power!" Nic's Power-Up Punch collided with Jiemma's own fist, making powerful winds break out between the two, and both were left at a standstill as the winds dialed down.
Fists still collided, Nic bared his angry expression. "You will never find strength alone! You have to have people close to you, let them encourage you and help you! Together, everyone benefits!"
"Nic." Minerva said, staying on the ground from the pressure of the battle.
Jiemma and Nic seemed even, given that Nic's Attack was higher due to Power-Up Punch. Eventually both jerked back and landed on their feet. Jiemma then released a shockwave, in which shot Nic back, making him grunt as he tumbled and quickly stop when he straightened out, on a knee.
"Family is weakness boy. Everything is a weakness. Love. Tears. Guilt. Fear. Only true champions rise by dominating their weaknesses, and abandoning anything other than resolve to be at the top." Jiemma said. He extended an arm out, attempting to use his Blast Magic, but Nic and Kecleon's reflexes enabled them both to speed to their right and dash about, avoiding explosion dome after explosion dome. "Caring for the feeble-minded will only soften the heart. Abandoning family and any outside forces will make Sabertooth the best. If my daughter is a weakling, who needs her?"
As Nic continued dodging, Minerva's fists clenched, and she choked on her tears a little. Nic growled as he and Kecleon changed course and they sped into Jiemma, dashing zigzags and making Jiemma unable to strike in time when Kecleon slammed herself into him with Thief, and Nic's knee cap glowed as he unleashed High Jump Kick, both attacks making a powerful air ripple and Jiemma gawked in abdominal pain and the force of both powerful attacks made him zoom in the blink of an eye back into the wall, smashing him into it, leaving it severely cracked and making a booming crash echo.
Nic and Kecleon jumped back and gained distance. Nic continued. "The members of Sabertooth, they have family as well. Whether they support them or not is up to them, but in the end, if they love their family, they should do everything to protect them!"
Individually, the members thought as to how some didn't have parents, yet some did, but even so, they met up in Sabertooth; and for whatever it was worth, they guessed Nic was right.
"Victory is a delicious pizza!" Kecleon shouted. "You can't savor the flavor if you don't have the best ingredients! And the best topping on it, is friendship and trust!"
"Trust…" Some members looked about, a little confused. They were aware Sabertooth wasn't the best guild, but that was probably because trust and bonding wasn't very common.
"I came here solemnly to give you a piece of my mind! No more abusing for Minerva! She doesn't deserve this-!" Though Nic's words were heard through the vast dust cloud Jiemma was in at the time, he stopped mid-sentence when he felt the ground beneath him quake, and a large purple blast wave was seen being formed about him and his green pal.
Nic acted fast, and he and Kecleon banded together, and Nic put up a barrier quickly. "Quick Guard!" Making a red shield, Nic managed to protect him and Kecleon until the rumbling stopped and the blindness dispersed. When it settled, the shield disappeared, leaving them unharmed, but a few scratches here and there because it was last-second notice. Suddenly, Jiemma appeared in front of Nic and Kecleon, grabbing the two and pressing them against the cratered floor, choking and pinning them in separate hands.
"You fools don't get it, do you." Jiemma's face had a very dark shadow, despite his body being battered. "Minerva isn't my daughter, she's just a vessel for strength that I need to make happen. Sabertooth shall triumph yet. Those who are weak-minded and care about others than themselves aren't welcome here! If all of Sabertooth is soft, I shall destroy them all!" He shouted, much to the sheer dismay of everyone else. "I WILL BE THE STRONGEST THEN! I SHALL REIGN SUPREME AND CRUSH ALL UNDER ME! THE STRONGEST EXIST FOR ONE, AND THAT'S ME AND ME ALONE!"
Nic grunted as he was losing oxygen. Still, he had Kecleon. And she was still clever enough to understand what to do in this situation, giving her battles in the past. Though it was a small struggle, she used Shadow Sneak from under Jiemma, getting him once again in the abdomen, much harsher then last time. Jiemma jerked back, and his grip was undone on both.
Nic and Kecleon both took in deep breaths and regained oxygen while getting back their feet. Soon back up, Nic saw Jiemma leaning forward, his abdomen hurting, and his fist collided with his face, making the Guild Master fall back from the plain old punch.
Nic and Kecleon both looked down, and Kecleon narrowed her eyes. "You have terrible taste in pizza."
Jiemma soon arose to his feet, huffing. His entire body fumed with veins as he unleashed a massive amount of purple energy, and the entire building shook. Nic and Kecleon took defensive action as Jiemma screamed at the top of his lungs and the ground shattered completely, making Nic and Kecleon fly and fall back down on their backs.
The rumbling continued, and Jiemma extended an arm out at them. "BEGONE INSECTS!"
As Jiemma was about to use his Blast Magic on them, Minerva was still shaken, but she couldn't stand by anymore. "…N-Nic…Sabertooth…" Suddenly, she snapped and she focused. "I don't need your forgiveness!" She shouted at Jiemma.
Jiemma was on the verge of triumph as he then engulfed the area in front with Blast Magic, then he became shocked when he saw the scene change. Suddenly, he was found hit by his own attack, and he screamed as he was swallowed in Blast Magic.
Nic and Kecleon grunted as they both jerked back up and found Jiemma swallowed in his own attack. He blinked and looked over at Minerva, who looked like she had just used her Territory Magic to switch places at the last second. Nic and Kecleon smiled, and glanced back at Jiemma, who was steaming and covered in scratches.
"You see Jiemma? Working together makes everyone strong!" Nic announced.
Angered, Jiemma turned towards Minerva. "Minerva?! How dare you! Die!" He extended an arm out, and Minerva waited. She then used her Territory, where history repeated itself. Jiemma was caught, once again, in his own attack. The guild members were never so awe struck before. They never thought they see the day Jiemma's own daughter would turn against him.
Minerva stood where Jiemma stood from before, and she looked at Nic and nodded. Nic was left shocked, but he nodded with a smile. He then turned back at Jiemma, who coughed as his body was exhausted.
"Minerva's chosen her own path Jiemma!" Nic went ahead after Jiemma, with Kecleon following. Jiemma was unable to respond from getting hit by his own Blast Magic, which required tremendous force. "Scum like you don't deserve power, and Minerva is free to make friends!" Nic then had a fist charging as he gave every ounce of focus he had.
"Your ingredients are what made the pizza taste terrible! And so…" Kecleon readied Slash. "We'll make it just right! Slash"
Jiemma groaned as he was on a knee in a crater, and he looked up and saw that it was too late. Kecleon's Slash went first and she let loose a battlecry as she slashed with all her might, making Jiemma scream as there was a vast gash across his chest. Then, Nic's fist had a massive amount of energy within, and he punched Jiemma right in the abdomen, making Jiemma scream as a shockwave swallowed up the area, and Nic drove his punch down.
"Focus Punch!" Nic's punch made tons of rock fly and winds fly. All of the members took cover, and a loud boom echoed. After the dust and rock settled down, Nic was seen huffing, his fist slowly being retracted from Jiemma's body, then shifted back into himself.
Jiemma had a massive bruise from where Nic punched, which was his center, and a gash was across the chest, which was Kecleon's doing. Together, with Minerva as well, they all looked down at the defeated Guild Master's body.
Nic huffed and he looked ahead, seeing the guild members in shock. "Whoa, they took down Jiemma!" "All hail the hero!" "No way am I abandoning my family for power!" "Victory!" Many of the guild members looked in shock, and many were inspired. Nic and Kecleon made them see how wrong Jiemma was, and with Minerva, they stood up to him.
Nic looked down at Minerva, slowly breaking into a smile. "You see? You don't need to be strong. Look at what we did." Minerva followed Nic's glance down to her father's defeated body. "Like I said Minerva, it's okay to be weak. As long as you band with friends and family, you can overcome men like him."
Minerva was very happy, and she looked back up at Nic. She suddenly wrapped around his waist and was grateful. Nic, again taken by Minerva's actions, broke out of his initial shock and he slowly embraced her too. Soon enough, Kecleon joined in, because who doesn't love hugging the little weirdo?
Soon enough, the guild members were all fairly inspired by Nic and realization. Some made plans on the spot. A few chose to leave, find a guild whose Master sought for glory without treating the weak like dirt. Many others, decided to stick around, but mainly for Minerva's sake.
Minerva looked at the many faces, how they all looked at her, seeing as how she helped Nic. Minerva was confused, but Nic comforted her worries.
"You see Minerva? Look at everyone." Nic gestured to everyone. "Now I don't know what will happen to you guys now, but I know Jiemma isn't going to appreciate this, but no matter what, protect each other like your lives depend on it." He preached.
Minerva looked down at the ground. "I don't think father's going to take this lightly…"
Nic then crouched down and met her at eye level. "Minerva. Even when your father comes to, remember that he's not your family. Whatever you do, be with those you care for. Train away from him, train with others who want to rely on you. Can you do that?"
Minerva nodded, satisfied to know that even though they had no place to go, and some had no choice but to stay in Sabertooth, they'll take their chances, and they would have Jiemma to deal with, especially with Minerva and her Territory to have Jiemma on the receiving end. This could be a start of some two-sided guild sort of speak.
Nic wasn't sure what will happen to Sabertooth, but he and Kecleon both smiled away. Soon enough, it was time to go. As Nic and Kecleon went away, Minerva called out to them.
"Wait!" She shouted, making Nic and Kecleon stop and turn around, seeing Minerva standing there. "Nic…Kecleon…I can't thank you both enough."
Nic smiled. "It's okay. Just look around you, you got real guild mates at least. Let this be a reminder that the right incentive and bonds can trump tyrants like Jiemma. Just train and take some jobs away from him. Be a special kind of group or guild and look after the other. Okay?"
Everyone cheered in the background, and Minerva was teary in the eyes. She sniffled. "Will I…will I be able to see you again?"
Nic blinked and half-grinned. A silence blew about and Nic crouched back down to eye level. "Minerva, I'm sure. I'm sure that we'll meet each other again someday, but for now…" He stood back up. "Be an example. Don't wind up being stabbed and abused like I did. You got a good future, just know to stay away, and be friendly to your guild. You have a home somewhere, just know that you aren't alone."
Minerva then went and hugged Nic one last time around the waist, small tears dripping down her face. This experience made her truly strong, and in the best way. "Thank you." She then slowly let go and turned towards Kecleon with a smile. "Thank you too."
Kecleon tilted her head. "Make the best pizza ever, with the ingredients of friendship."
Minerva giggled and hugged her as well, and soon enough, Nic and Kecleon turned and left, waving back at Sabertooth, mainly Minerva.
Minerva waved goodbye to Nic, with a smile on her face. 'Nic. Kecleon. You two used teamwork and friendship to win, and that's what made you strong…thank you…for showing me true strength.'
As Nic and Kecleon left town, jumping through the trees. The two were left pretty satisfied with how their little adventure went.
Kecleon turned towards Nic as they jumped branches. "Nic?"
"Hm?" Nic looked over at his pal. "Yeah, what is it?"
Kecleon tilted her head. "I'm hungry." All of that pizza talk and other stuff she said back in the guild really made her hungry.
Nic smiled, feeling the same thing as they continued onwards home. "Me too Kecleon, me too."
Little did they know, meeting Minerva again someday…would be a very long time.
Well, I didn't make this chapter around 10.5K like I hoped I would, but 11K is still good. There's always next chapter to try and dial it down in the 10K area, right? Also, I realized Kecleon didn't get a lot of screen time, so this chapter was all for her. All hail Kecleon's weirdness!
Surprised? This chapter was very important. First of all, I accounted every Plate in the story, and where it would be, but I forgot the Fist Plate, so this chapter was to fit that Plate in; secondly, there's another realization. Put this into logic: Minerva looked around the same age as Erza and Kagura in the GMG Arc, at least she looked like it, but rewind her 7 years prior and you get a teen Minerva still being abused by her father, so I sought to make a nice chance. There was also another reason why I did this chapter; I personally believe that Minerva deserves a chance at being good, so having Nic as an influence will make her personality different later on. This will definitely affect the GMG Arc, but not drastically. Minerva will be nicer, nonetheless.
Anyways, next chapter will be the crazy Tenrou Island Arc. With all the battles taking place, I might need to cut some out, and write in only the ones I made alterations in, just to save time.
Please Favorite, Follow, & Review this story and/or chapter if you guys love the plot, screen time for Kecleon, the battles, etc.
Next Time: Tropical Hysteria