Chapter 85 – With You Forever
This is Insane Dominator here, and I am proud and regretful to announce the final chapter of The Fairy Contender. I have made it so far within a year and eight months' time. After so long, I have gotten to where I always dreamed to be, at the finale. The thoughts swelling inside of me were all conveyed at long last, and now I shall wrap all of that up here and now. I want to personally thank all of you who have contributed with favoring, Following, and reviewing the story from the very beginning. It's with a heavy heart that I now announce the finale.
And so, enjoy the emotional conclusion of The Fairy Contender!
To Recap:
After the Legendary Pokémon powered up, including Future Nic into Mega Rayquaza, they all engaged in battle with Ragnarok Lysandre and the Dark Legendaries. Though they struggled, all were wiped down hard, and all of Earth Land and the universe was within darkness, blood red, and pitch black. Etherion fell apart, and every living being was suspended. When the Dark Legendaries were about to make their kill, Nics' Pokémon all bounced back and attacked, with Legendaries joining in. Nic and Future Nic both kept on fighting, and unlocked the last Plate – The Pixie Plate, and dubbed the Fairy Contenders. Arceus's life was revived, and as they fought and the Dark Legendaries were overpowered, both Nics became Arceus and overpowered Ragnarok Lysandre and ended him with Judgement, finally defeating him for good. All damage done was erased and all life was revived. Acnologia retreated into the skies, and Atlas Flame returned to the past. Everyone grew mournful as the future Lucy, Nic and Pokémon all revealed that with history changed, they'll die. With teary farewells, they passed on, meeting everyone with smiles in a field of gold.
Final Chapter – With You Forever
Within the confines of space, stars were seen, the nebulas and galaxies made it look beautiful and exotic once more. As stars and asteroids flourished throughout the cosmos, Giratina, Darkrai, Hoopa, and Mewtwo were all within spatial spheres. Each one had a bloody look full of scorn. It was one thing they were defeated again after just breaking out, but it was a bitter taste left in their mouths knowing that casual Pokémon were the ones responsible for stopping them.
Before them were Dialga, Palkia, and Arceus. Arceus had a majestic shine all around his body. A golden glow was cascaded all around him, brimming with universal force that was unmatched beyond comprehension.
Dialga and Palkia remained steadily as Arceus raised his head, his presence turning stoic and justified. This force given off made the Dark Legendaries, mainly Giratina, snarl in spite.
"Giratina, Hoopa, Darkrai, and Mewtwo. You four have been judged by the light of truth, and no amount of moral can reverse what you have caused." Arceus boomed. "Ages ago, you four have banned together. You sought to take the universe in your hands, starting with ground zero, and keep it in eternal darkness so no life shall be the same. You wanted your violence and sadistic demeanor to rampage, causing mayhem for all ages. After dealing with you hence then, I have banished and sealed you in the void. And so, here we are again."
"You not only used a pawn, but you almost ended the universe. Granted you were closer than before, but those actions shall never be forgotten." Dialga said.
"All aspects of time and space had been rearranged until it was fixed. You were the cause. Your anger and hatred has been boiled up." Palkia judged. "Justice shall be fallen onto you."
Giratina, in his Origin Form, angrily screeched outwards. He rammed repeatedly and thrashed in his sphere. "Arceus! I will have your blood! I will have your blood!" He angrily shouted.
Hoopa tried using his spatial powers, but his Bound Form was no match as Palkia's spatial powers were of supreme command. Darkrai and Mewtwo both were hopeless but they angrily punched and rammed the spheres with little to no success.
"ARCEUS!" They all shouted.
Arceus's eyes glowed brightly. A golden light expanded outwards. "You shall be brought to justice! Have your punishment fall before you!"
All of the Dark Legendaries screamed in searing agony as the whole space was engulfed in a golden light.
It was perhaps two or three days after the whole battle of grand history. The heat had finally died down, and everyone rejoiced as they were all still alive. News of Nic Pularis and his six Pokémon was now common knowledge throughout Earth Land and their home world, and their display of power was by far the most immense anyone could have ever foreseen.
In Crocus's castle, Mercurius, everyone gathered with decorations and fancy attires. It was the night of a royal party. A celebration.
In the dressing room, Yukino stared at her reflection with a frown. On her head was a spring green rose with gold chains around her snow-white head. Her dress was a spring green with a low cut to show tons of her buxom. The cut was fur-lined. Her choker was spring green.
"Do I really have to wear this?" She asked.
Lucy winked. "Yeah, it looks amazing in you!"
"It suits you, Yukino." Mira said.
Lisanna looked over her shoulder, trying to reach the laces on her girdle. "Mira, can I get some help?"
"Here." Sophie applied and assist as she tied the laces instead.
Yukino looked down, seeing the smiles of the Fairy Tail girls. She wasn't sure she belonged with them, but they insisted she came along. She just dreaded about seeing familiar faces again.
After a few minutes, they exited the dressing room and ventured into the palace. They stepped into what was the banquet hall, and it was gigantic and elegant. The girls looked amazed as hundreds of dishes, foods, and an assortment of drinks were arranged. The people were wearing fancy party dresses that made them each stand out.
"Wow!" Lucy clasped her hands, seeing the golden embroidery.
"Amazing." Wendy gasped.
"Hey, you guys made it." They looked over to see Elfman voicing them over before he ate a chicken leg. He was among the Fairy Tail group that was clustered together.
"Alright, let's drink on!" Cana opened her mouth and hung the booze bottle over her head, having a waterfall fall into her mouth.
Gray looked over towards Gajeel, whose hair was tied back and he had a navy blue tuxedo over a light blue striated shirt with a yellow collar. "That's a little above your paygrade, isn't it?"
"At least I'm wearing a getup." Gajeel barked back, taking note of Gray only in his boxers and a light blue ribbon around his neck.
"Over here you guys. We have to become acquainted and get along with our former competitors." Erza informed. She was in a black and white dress with a long red skirt; the sleeves were also cut with slits. She had a bold necklace around her neck. She had ruby earrings and intricate gold chains on her head with oval rubies. Her hair was in a ponytail falling from a bud.
"Tell that to Natsu." Gray sniped.
Gajeel had a hand underneath his chin. "Come to think of it, Luminous isn't around either."
"When you put it like that, none of us have seen Nic in a couple days. The heck he's doing?" Gray wondered.
All of the patrons in the banquet hall were having smiles and enjoying company with one another. Elfman was eating, though Droy's eating habits were superior; Cana was downing booze like no tomorrow, Bisca and Alzack were happily teaching their daughter etiquette,
"The King is very generous." Lily commented with Happy and Carla in attires to fit their sizes.
"Aye!"
"I'm sure these ruffians will put him through his paces, just wait and see." Carla pointed out.
"This palace is so lively." Jenny noted.
Ichiya struck a pose. "A dazzling glimmer like the stars themselves!" He told the Trimens.
"Hooray for King Ichiya!" They cheered.
On another side of the banquet hall, Kagura stepped forth with a yellow skirt flowing from a purple dress. She also had gold embroidery. Unlike the others, her style was far from suited. She didn't look comfortable in the very least. "This is so stupid."
"Aw come one!" Beth whined.
"It's beautiful, Kagura." Arana praised.
"It'd be better with a smile." Risley pointed out.
"Meow! That looks great, Kagura!" Millianna cheered.
Makarov sat with Goldmine, Bob, Obaba, and Yajima. All of them seemed to be having quite the plentiful time with smiles with how the recent events turned out.
Makarov sighed with booze held up. "Never thought I'd be in a royal shindig."
"Old age has its benefits." Yajima smiled.
Lucy was indulging in the banquet food, looking all plentiful and happy as she bit into some pastry dish with crust. Walking up to her was Princess Hisui, who had a calm and elegant smile. "Hello, Lucy!"
Lucy nearly choked out of shock but managed to swallow. She turned towards the Princess. "Princess Hisui!" She exclaimed in surprise.
The Princess giggled. "I'm glad the food is to your liking."
Lucy sheepishly rubbed the back of her head. "Perhaps a little too much." The two ladies shared a similar chuckle in amusement of the conversation that was brought up, which revolved around the party.
Hisui changed the subject sometime later. "So you're related to the Heartfilia family."
Lucy smiled, though it was rather hollow. "Heh, yeah. That was a long time ago."
"I see. Your father and I were very much acquainted."
Lucy's eyes widened. "Really?!"
"Indeed. Even though he has done good for me, I've only given you grief. I'm sorry."
"It's fine. I'm a guild Mage after all. Trouble comes with the job." Lucy countered, showing no ill-will or even possible resentment.
Hisui kept on smiling. "By the way." She observed the banquet hall, noticing some important people not present. "I'm surprised that that pink-haired boy isn't here with you. And I'm more surprised that Nic Pularis isn't here. To be honest, this party was meant as a thank you for his valiance. We wanted to personally thank him on behalf of Fiore."
Lucy looked around, noticing how the two weren't present. "Now that I think of it, they aren't here."
Vanessa was among the crowd, standing out quite well in her attire. She had an intricate dress with a navy blue color with gray fur outlining the low cut like the many dresses. The sleeves were long, but had slits. The edging and dress had dark blue embroidery, a very unique and dark dress with a lemon yellow skirt running down to her blue heels. The dress itself gave the single blonde bang over her right eye emphasis.
"You look very formal, Vanessa." Braixen praised, herself only having a pink dress shirt and a tiara.
Vanessa held up a glass of lemonade with fresh lemon inside. She looked down towards her. "Yes. Thank you. I could say the same for you too."
"Guilty as charged."
"Krokorok doesn't do dress-up! Krokorok ain't no fashion freak!"
Mawile sweat dropped despondently. "A simple blue bowtie doesn't kill you."
"Let me tell you something, Mawile! Krokorok has no shame! He runs around biting names and claiming names!"
"I believe that's the other way around, Einstein." Mawile turned away in her small magenta dress. "Lie down before you hurt yourself."
Before things could get out of hand, Venusaur thankfully stepped in. His head had a green chain with a pink rose. "Okay you two, let's not upset the atmosphere around here. It's been a long week. Let's just vent ourselves at low level and just have a good time."
Sliggoo slithered up to Vanessa, not having anything on due to her slime. The same with Magnezone as he had no attire. The Dragon-Type looked up at Vanessa. "Vanessa, where is your brother?"
Vanessa looked around, noticing that Sliggoo was right. "Wait, when you put it like that, I haven't seen him in a few days."
Magnezone seemed still in the air. "Perhaps it's for the best."
Vanessa looked towards Magnezone, mournfully smiling. "Yeah, he's somewhere. He'll be okay."
Sophie sported her own dress. It was a brown dress with white fur line on the low cut. Her hair was still slicked down, but a layer was in a braid behind her head. Her lipstick was pure pink, and below the dress was a long black skirt with frilly edging. She seemed content as she looked around idly, minding her own business.
"Ah, as I expected. I had a feeling you'd be here, cousin."
Sophie turned around, seeing Rufus present with a gentlemen's smile. His overall appearance looked the usual. "Rufus?" Sophie blinked and she didn't recall his grin ever being that sincere before. Still, she didn't let on and decided to have it let go. "So, how is your memory?"
"That feeling of immortal scars. The requiem that was of no requiem but a bloody shrill that makes heads decay. That memory, no matter how hard I try it's engraved into my mind." Rufus mournfully looked down. "It would seem I have stepped into your shoes, Sophie."
Sophie smiled wider. "Takes one to know one, huh?"
"As you propose, scars make the experience. This is no exception. All of Earth Land had been scarred for life." He lifted his cap upwards, his chin up as his confidence was back. "The light of an ensemble easily memorized, yet the dread of the past never fades for a Mage such as ourselves. You truly have opened my eyes. I suppose that's what family does for another, right?"
Sophie looked back at the Fairy Tail group that was close by, all of them holding their spirits high and laughed when Droy was choking on a whole meat leg and bone, of course Jet had to bail him out on that.
She giggled. "A guild can make the Mage and vice versa."
Rufus looked around, intrigued by something missing. "If memory serves me correctly, Nic is absent at the night's banquet."
Sophie looked around, a frown on her face. "Yeah, I remember too. It's been almost three days. I know he's been through enough, but I hope he isn't hurt somewhere." Of course she just contradicted herself, but said nothing of it. She was a little hurt as well, so was everybody. The memory of Future Nic and everyone passing on before their eyes was a scornful mark in her mind, and it took a little time for all of them to recover from the blow. Now the question was if Nic had recovered.
"Natsu and Nic aren't here, still?" Bickslow wondered.
"Luminous's sister and Titania have been a little antsy as of late." Evergreen pointed out.
Laxus had no room to say as he had ladies on his arms, feeling his muscles as hard as rock. Of course Freed wasn't too happy with them getting past his bodyguard skills.
"Lucy hasn't seen Natsu or Nic." Levy.
"They're fine. They're tough dogs." Jet shrugged off.
Warren looked just as carefree. "Natsu's probably sleepin' somewhere. Nic, who knows?"
Unlike them, or all of Fairy Tail for that matter, the only one who was having a fidget over the missing duo was Erza. While she was supposed to be happy, she couldn't lie to herself when she was worried. Natsu was one thing, but Nic was another thing entirely. "Nic, where are you?" She pondered as she walked all around the banquet hall. The past two days he was missing, as was Greninja and the others. Saying she was worried would be an understatement.
Her worries of the crestfallen were stopped cold when she came eye to eye with Kagura. The two swordswomen didn't make any faults in their approach, but it was Erza who put up a bold front. She approached Kagura, keeping a friendly atmosphere around her.
"Have you healed well, Kagura?"
"I could ask the same."
Both implied could either be of mutual respect, but whether it'd be of physical or mental wounds, they powered on.
Erza pressed on with a smile. "We've been through quite a lot…so may I ask, can we come out of this as friends?"
"I'll pass." Although Erza didn't seem too surprised by Kagura's answer, it did leave her sad a bit. However, Kagura then added on something even Erza didn't expect.
The pink in her cheeks thickened. "Instead…" She looked away in embarrassment. "I'd hope you'd be my older sister."
To say Erza was shocked would be icing on the cake; superficial. The more Erza looked at Kagura, the more she seemed sincere and embarrassed. She came out with a smile. "How can I refuse such a cute face?" She pulled the blushing swordswoman to her chest in one of her hugs, leaving Kagura more embarrassed than ever.
"I-I was clearly joking, you dimwit!" Kagura exclaimed, trying to hide her embarrassment, but was of no avail.
Mermaid Heel was looking pretty happy and comical with their ace all jumbled up like a puzzle. As they were all laughing and settling down, Millianna's thoughts were left to fall back to what happened. When she looked at Erza, her mind was brought back to the third day of the games, the same day those questions of Erza possibly protecting Jellal from her. It was an internal debate, and she seemed more troubled and despondent as she couldn't even look at Erza.
Erza turned around, letting Kagura go. "Millianna, the least you can do is cheer up, right?"
The feline woman gave no reply.
Erza grinned as she reached into her chest open in her dress. "Well then, perhaps this will perk your spirits…" She plucked out Happy, who was all dressed up. "Here!"
"Aye, sir!" Happy greeted.
Millianna's eyes sparkled. "Kitty?!" Her eyes twinkled before her pouting resumed and she looked away.
Erza reached into her chest again, this time plucking out Carla and Lily. "There's more~."
Millianna could no longer resist and she took a leap of joy. Her eyes were brimming with happiness. "Aw~! So many kitties! Meo~~w!" She snagged all three Exceeds into her clutches and nuzzled them fiercely, a huge smile on her face.
"Hey, we're not stuffed animals!" Lily chided.
"Aye, I can't breathe." Happy wheezed.
"Erza…" Carla growled.
Erza couldn't help but giggle as to where Kagura openly shrugged and shook her head. Erza's eyes widened when she remembered why she was scoping around to begin with.
"Happy, do you know why Natsu or Nic aren't here?" She asked.
Happy's face was being pinched by Millianna, giving him a silly expression. His cheeks were pushed in and out. "No, I haven't seen them." He muffled.
"I'm worried." Erza thought as she put a hand to her chin to think. "I hope nothing has happened with Natsu, and I'm more than worried about finding Nic. Just where is he…?"
Another individual had decided to join in. Her heels could be heard from afar, catching the girls and Exceeds' attention. It was someone that left the Mermaid Heels on edge. Minerva stepped into the conversation. She had a purple dress that flowed like a waterfall with intricate gold lamented along the edged. The left side had a slit in it, showing her slender left leg. Her hair was all curled up, only having two long strands hang that framed her face. The top of her head had two large buds.
"You three…" She started with subtlety.
Erza's eyes widened. "Minerva, how have you been?"
Kagura and Millianna's gazes were by no means welcoming. They seemed rather on edge, and Minerva couldn't blame them for what she, or in technicality what Bellona had done. It was still something that had to be settled amongst the four, and now was as good as ever.
"What do you want?" Kagura sniped.
"Hey, you're that Sabertooth girl." Millianna said. "You…"
Erza swiftly turned back towards them. "Both of you, be nice." She glanced back at Minerva, who had her head hung low. "You know what happened wasn't Minerva's fault by any means. Your anger can't be let out in her."
Minerva glanced up at them as they all stared at her before she looked back to the floor. "U…uh…my apologies for what happened with Bellona." Minerva apologized. "My weakness left you all in harm's way."
Erza smiled. "Minerva, it's fine. It's no grudge against you."
Kagura had to understand the matter. It wasn't Minerva's fault, and she witnessed it first-hand. Millianna did as well. It was Minerva who was no different. They were all victims of Bellona. A shared group who were just puppets on her game board. All pawns.
"Your apology is accepted." Kagura replied. "However, that one in particular is another story entirely."
"Meow!" Millianna agreed.
Minerva smiled, satisfied with how the three made up.
Erza's eyes widened again, catching onto something. "Speaking of Bellona, where is she?"
"After she suffered humiliation, she fled. It was no doubt she was victim of Lysandre's spatial suspension. I would expect her to be as traumatized as any other individual." Minerva explained.
"I see, so she's fled…" The matter itself then changed to another subject. "Minerva, have you seen Nic by any chance."
The Sabertooth Princess shook her head with a frown. "No, I'm afraid our savior of the stars has been missing for quite some time."
Erza looked down, saddened that Nic was still missing. After what he's been through, with the experience and all of the overwhelming displays of power and exhaustion, it had to be accurate to say if he wasn't here, something happened, and she had to get to the bottom of it, pronto.
Sting walked up with a glass of champagne in hand and a bottle, putting on a smile. "Natsu, Nic, any of you care to have a drink!"
"It's good stuff!" Lector insisted.
Turning around, Gajeel had a face full of chicken leg. "Salamander and Luminous ain't here." He muffled.
Sting frowned in disappointment. "Huh? And here I was trying to be friendly after all this fighting."
"Sorry pal, guess the plan didn't work." Lector grunted.
"Fro thinks so too!" Frosch said.
Rogue stepped forward, catching Gajeel's attention. "Ryos."
"That was long ago. I'm Rogue, it's more preferable that way." The Shadow Dragon Slayer reasoned.
"You know about that guy? Your future-self was pathetic, even towards his bitter end." Gajeel reminded them all of Future Rogue, but the saddest part was how he was in disarray with a false dream of becoming the Dragon King, and failed in the hands of Legendary Pokémon.
The memory of his future-self didn't leave Rogue with any sense of shame. He sheepishly rubbed the back of his head. "Yes, I am aware. My future-self was a really pathetic premonition." He straightened up, looking Gajeel in the eyes with resolution. "I will never become that fool, not ever!"
"Fro thinks so too!" Frosch agreed.
Gajeel smirked with the same thoughts of hope. Sting scooted right by his side with a big smile. "Well since those two aren't here, guess you'll do!"
"Watch it pal. You wanna be a punching back?" Gajeel threatened.
"Chillax, he's still new to being social." Lector persuaded.
Orga raised a brow with crossed arms. "Well Sting's improved."
"I have no memory of him being this charitable." Rufus said.
Sting poured into Gajeel's glass and sat the bottle down. He held up his glass and the two made a toast. "A toast to the friendship between fairies and tigers!"
As the two made their toast, another party had made a turn to meet them. Yukino was talking with Lucy and Mira and they stopped dead in their tracks when they made eye contact with Sting and his group. There was a still tension in the air, and it was extremely awkward for everyone around. Sabertooth was having looks of surprise just as much as Yukino did.
"Yukino!" Frosch cheered.
Yukino turned away. "S-sorry. I didn't mean to be here." She hurriedly began to walk away until Sting implored her to stop.
"Wait, Yukino!" He insisted. "Please. Hang around for just a little bit at least. Master and Lady Bellona are gone for good. They won't be with us."
"Really?" Lucy wondered.
Sting pressed on with guilt. "We're very sorry for how you were treated by us. But as of now we're starting from zero. Sabertooth is gonna change for the better."
Yukino looked back at Sting.
"The way we treated another, was just wrong…but that Sabertooth is dead. From now on, we'll be a guild who treasures our own kin."
Yukino looked down and away. "…and why are you telling me all of this?"
Sting looked directly at her, no one else. "I know you're still healing, and this may be too much to ask for…but we'd love it if you would give us a second chance."
Yukino gave no reply, but the offer was still stirring her up. Sting was right, it was too much to ask, but with Sting's words, she was starting to show a small grin.
"You're right! That is too much, idiots!"
Everyone's attention was diverted towards the side, where they saw Mermaid Heel in tow of riled up – and slightly intoxicated – Kagura. Yukino was the most shocked. "Kagura?"
"Her life belongs to me! She's gonna join Mermaid Heel, no arguments!"
"WHAT?!" All of Sabertooth exclaimed.
"Uh…HUH?!" Yukino was equally as shocked.
Sting barged up to her, seeing the red in her drunken cheeks. "You're too wasted to know what you're saying!"
"She's with Mermaid Heel! I said no arguments!" A drunken Kagura growled at Sting, who growled back in retort. Both had a glare-off as it was a war with the prize being one Yukino.
"Stop!" A third party joined in. It was Fairy Tail with Erza leading the army with crossed arms underneath her chest. "We won't stay silent over this war if fate!" She protested.
"We're very manly!" Elfman stated.
"That's right! And if she decides to join a guild, it's ours!" Lucy stated.
"That's right." Gray said.
Juvia had puffed cheeks with a pout. "I think there's far too many competing for Gray's love!"
"And, uh…there's also me." Lisanna groaned, raising her hand.
Romeo's eyes widened. "Yeah! You're both little sisters, soft tones, and same hair!"
"Fairy Tail too?" Yukino was starting to grow speechless.
"I smell a beautiful parfume from the mistress. You have a fragrance that can shine in our guild, yes?" Ichiya insisted.
"Yeah, the more the merrier." Jenny agreed.
"If that's the case, Lamia Scale will claim her." Lyon stated. "Gray's guild won't best us this time."
"Are we seriously getting involved?" Jura wondered. Sherry right beside him sighed.
"Our guild's been all brawn and macho, but women always gets our blood pumpin'! I don't care that we lost, but no way in hell we're losing now!" Bacchus shouted.
"WILD!" Quatro Cerberus agreed.
"H-hey, wait! C'mon, settle down. You don't have to…" Yukino was in no position to really say much as they were all set for battle for her.
Makarov smirked. "We're all in for the win!"
"Not if we have anything to say about it!" Goldmine backlashed.
"I'll spin you all!" Obaba announced.
"My youthful blood is starting to boil back up again!" Bob said.
In no time flat, all of the guilds and patrons were caught in what was a rampage. A brawl thrashed and sent tables and people alike flying. Punching, choking, and a variety of things went down, and food splattered all across the floor that people used as weapons, like a chicken leg to whack someone with.
In the midst of it all, Yukino was seen tearing up and Mira was hovering behind her. "Aw, there's no need to cry." She comforted Yukino.
"I know…" Yukino turned to look up at her, a beautiful smile on her face as he was crying tears of not guilty, but instead joy. "But you al…make me really happy."
Mira's smile widened. "Your smiling, wonderful." She and Yukino watched on as the guilds went to work with destruction and mayhem. "You have so many places that you belong to."
Yukino nodded. "Yes, I do."
Arcadios walked up towards the balcony, overlooking the destroyed banquet hall. "Silence! That shall be enough!" He raised and then slammed his sword into the balcony, echoing loudly and causing the fight and participants to halt. Their attention was towards Arcadios as he stood over them all. They all separated and watched as Arcadios cleared his throat.
"In honor for your display during this year's Grand Magic Games, we give our thanks to you. And to Nic Pularis, His Majesty and all of Fiore would be glad for you to heed our word of thanks for saving all of Earth Land and all life amongst the stars!"
Erza watched with a smile as the doors behind Arcadios slid open. As she watched a shadowy figure emerge, she started to get sad again. It's been so long, and still no sign of Nic. She wouldn't expect him to just disappear without a good reason. His three months in that dimension was an example, but what was the reason this time? It struck her as odd, and she had enough. Her frown returned.
Everyone else, however, watched as the King presented himself, only for every single person to deadpan, especially Lucy, as the King was none other than…
"What's up my subjects! Your King has arrived!" Natsu was present in the King's robe and crown. He maniacally laughed as Mato and Darton gaped their mouths in disbelief, but they weren't the only ones. Every single person deadpanned and gaped their mouths in utter shock.
"Long live King Natsu! The new ruler of Fiore!" Natsu again maniacally laughed.
Gray could only despair and grimace and Lucy gaped her mouth and groaned.
Arcadios gritted his teeth. "Garou Knights, get him…"
"Sorry, we tried. He's too strong." Kama reasoned, with the Garou Knights agreeing.
While many were just baffled and perplexed at Natsu's antics, many of his guild mates sure did find this his best joke yet. Some broke out in laughter even. However, some like Master Makarov couldn't fathom Natsu in the slightest. He could only gawk and grimace as all of his fair fell out due to stress.
Mato jumped up and town, trying to reach for his crown. "P-please, enough!"
"What's the rush? We won your games, right?" Natsu asked. "As the prize I should be the new King, and you all are my followers!" He thus resumed laughing.
Lucy laughed just a bit given this was Natsu. "Well he always goes out with a bang, right? Erza?" Lucy turned around, but she found her left side vacant. "Erza?" She looked around, realizing that Erza was gone. "Erza? I wonder she went?" Another thought popped into her head. "And what happened to Nic?"
The streets were cleared due to the celebration and banquet, leaving a certain someone to roam freely with no traffic. The lone person roaming was Erza as she stepped hastily through Crocus. Her heels weren't her priorities as she had her dress's skirt lifted to support herself in her haste. The party was of no matter to her anymore; the ceremony, the people, all of that was of nothing to her. There was only Nic on her mind. Her worries got the best of her and she searched through the streets of northern Crocus.
"Where is he?" She looked around the alleys, her guard up in any special case. Sadly no sign of him even in there. Her search led her towards the outskirts of the northern Crocus area, right along the streets that were overlooking the seashores. "I don't know what he's been doing, but when I find him I'll-" She cut herself off when the corner of her eye caught sight of someone along the sands of the beaches.
It wasn't alone, as the person was seemingly alongside creatures of various shapes and sizes. Her body shifted towards the beaches as the moon was in its waning gibbous phase. Her eyes widened when she realizes and confirmed who they were. "Is that…?"
True to her speculations, it was Nic. All of his Pokémon were gathered around something large. Erza didn't get a good look at it until Nic and his Pokémon all slowly stepped back. Her surprise mounted yet again. "A raft?"
Nic and the others had frowns and despondent gazes. They were far from celebratory. All seven were gathered around what was a large, square raft made of buoyant material. It was queen bed sized roughly, and the most astonishing part of it was what was on it.
Looking from afar, Erza squinted and looked shocked again. It was all of Fairy Tail, every one of its members; those who stayed behind for seven years, and the core members. Every single one of them was a framed drawing. All of the drawings were detailed of the upper bodies of everybody. Organized delicately along the raft, the outer frames were of the members of seven years. Inside in a big oval was Team Tenrou. However, in the center several frames were present. One was of a smiling Vanessa, and around her frame was the frames of her six Pokémon in a circle. Another one in the center was Erza, and her features involving her beautiful long red hair and body and all was proportioned exactly like the real one. Erza indeed felt touched by how exact the drawing was, but she stopped stiff when she saw what was between her and Vanessa's drawing.
The drawing was Nic himself. It was detailed with the sunglasses on the V-neck. Around his framed were the six frames of his own Pokémon. All of those six surrounded Nic, but the sides of the circle they made had enough room to link Erza and Vanessa's frame with his.
Nic and the others looked devastated. They looked as though they haven't slept in days, and they looked as though they haven't eaten either. It came to Erza what they were doing this whole time. 'Nic…'
It was true. Nic hasn't slept in days, and his Pokémon were in the same boat; no sleep, no feeding, and instead they were really making a raft while Nic gathered up frames and had taken the vast amount of hours to draw everybody in mourn.
Nic looked down at the sunglasses on his V-neck. It was a long gaze, but it was to take in the last of what he had to let go. His future-self had found something worth holding onto, more so than the past. He looked at the raft, his future-self's picture. His eyes mist, but he blinked and inhaled. It was time.
His Pokémon all looked at Nic with nods of agreement; they knew it was time as well.
Nic reached for his sunglasses and pulled them out of the V-neck. Instead of putting them on, he instead flipped them open and gently placed them in front of his picture, right behind Greninja's frame. He then reached into his pocket, clutching onto something. His face seemed to show remorse as he held it in place for a moment.
What came next was something even Erza from afar never saw coming. They all witnessed Nic gently pulling out his phone and earbuds. He held them in his hands as he looked at his reflection through the screen. When he looked at the device, he can remember his grandparents, but at the same time it was also a memento.
He managed to mournfully grin as his eyes mist. "So long."
It was time to put the past behind, and to do that, it was time for another sacrifice. He placed his phone and coiled up earbuds right next to his phone, and slowly slipped his hand away. His eyes began to mist again and he looked at Greninja.
Greninja's nod of approval and understanding was transmitted towards the others. Once again, they all came together and stepped into the water. The cool tides against them was irrelevant as they all gently pushed the raft out towards the sea.
Erza remained hollow as Nic began to walk back towards the shore and turned around, with Greninja, Charizard, Kecleon, Staraptor, Garchomp, and Arbok all having despondent eyes. They were all misting up hard.
"May the heavens welcome the blessed, and lead you through God's field of dreams. May we hear your song of the stars, so that we may be blessed to watch you twinkle among the eternal norm of benevolence." Nic tried his hardest to stay strong through his speech, despite the few small tears that were ready to fall. "I know that you all have taken your place among the deceased, and rejoiced with smiles and tears of joy…for seven brave saviors have fallen. They were more than what could've been; they were more so. They were ourselves, our future that we changed for the better. They were warriors, who died together. Human. Pokémon. Brothers. Sisters. Comrades. But the most important thing…family. Us alone would never have come to salvage a great change in fate. They came back knowing what fates they shall have fallen onto them." Tears began to shed down his cheek. "They lost their family, the guild that taught them to open up, and where Nic had met the love of his life."
Erza's eyes were misting up from afar, hearing Nic's future family funeral.
"You were all not of fruition, but that doesn't mean you won't ever be forgotten. Our future is still family, and family is forever, whether it'd be the past or future. We were all connected, and bonds are even through death. That shows how strong and important they are. You can chain us down, they can chain you down, but as long as we are in this and thinking of each other, knowing that as a whole we are home, nothing will end us again. Nic. Greninja. Charizard. Kecleon. Staraptor. Garchomp. Arbok. May they rejoice with love and fury in the great battles above us, and have them fight for love and thrill of the challenges. Have them be besides the other…for all eternity."
With tears running down his cheeks hard, he raised his left arm out. All six Pokémon on his left side were lined up, all equally as sorrowful. They all composed the best they could, looking proud and mighty as Nic raised his left arm.
He leveled the arm to face the moon, signaling. Charizard took in a quick breath and fired Flamethrower high into the skies. When the flames lit up the skies, a pyro explosion bellowed in the form of fireworks. Orange sparkles rained down along the sea.
Greninja took in a deep breath of his own, unleashing Scald into the air. The compressed, boiling stream shot into the same place as Flamethrower did. Again another explosive firework went off, making blue sparkles rain down.
Arbok remained strong and composed as he made a silver ball of light brimming with power. It became Gunk Shot, and Arbok fired the attack at the same spot in the final salute. A purple explosion rumbled up in a purple firework, sending twinkling purple sparkles down.
The raft peacefully drifted off through the calm night sea, with the orange, blue, and purple sparkles sprinkling down to make the farewell a dazzling one.
Nic lowered his head and his tears began to settle some. Greninja looked down as his own tears ran down his face. Charizard kept a strong composure, but his mouth quivered as tears, like everybody else, ran down his face. Kecleon and Staraptor looked sadly at another, seeing the sad tears each other had. Arbok's head lowered, and he hissed some without choking on a tear or two, which was hard to accomplish. Garchomp openly sniffled and looked down. He glanced away and had a tear hit the drenched sands.
Nic turned towards the six, his team looked back at him, all still somber. Nic tried to pull a half-grin, relieved with how they all were still alive. "I love you guys. I wouldn't ask for any other Pokémon."
All of them huddled together, silently breaking down after all of the pain and stress that's been building up for so long.
Watching from afar, Erza felt a single tear fall from her cheek. She never saw Nic breakdown since his humiliating defeat against Lysandre back in Kalos, only this one wasn't of fail, but of grief. He succeeded, but at the cost of valuable allies. It was a bittersweet victory.
She smiled warmly as Nic and his Pokémon poured their emotions out. It was for the best. She was so proud that Nic finally was able to let go. He had more important things to consider now, and she was one of them.
It may have been several minutes, maybe almost half an hour, but after settling down, all seven were sitting and looking out at the sea as the moon reflected along the water. They were all calmed down, and they looked tired.
Erza finally approached from Nic's right, gently making her way towards him as he had hands huddling his knees. She gently talked to him, to try and make a casual start. She kept a smile. "You've had it rough." It wasn't a great start, but she couldn't find another sentence to consider.
Nic didn't bother looking at her and instead looked out at sea. "Yeah, perhaps that is an understatement."
"That's true. You know, the King and the royal family threw a party for you." Nic's stare out towards the sea, glanced over towards her. The eyes said it all. "I see." Still, she kept a smile, knowing this was Nic after all.
She took a seat on her knees, not caring how her dress was gonna get dirty. She sat right beside him, and looked at him with a soft smile. "Nic, I'm so proud of you. You know that? I know it wasn't easy, not in the least, but I think you did a very great thing."
"The universe or the funeral."
"You can say both. You sacrificed so much to take Lysandre down. You were given a chance and you and your Pokémon saved us all. Nic from the future did the same, and he would've done it a second time if he could. I know I'd be proud and happy, because in the end it's what you give that makes it all meaningful." She looked out towards the seam watching calm waves flow in and out. She looked up towards the moon and resumed. "Those pictures were beautiful. What you gave was the time and heart to remember everyone that vanished from the future. They had lives too."
She leaned on over and pulled Nic's head into her chest, lovingly holding him in a hug. Nic grinned softly and wrapped his arms around Erza. His tight hold onto her warm body was desperate, almost possessive, to alleviate the thoughts that she might be gone if he were to let go.
Feeling Nic's hold, she rubbed his head softly. His short black hair was soft, surprisingly. "You have a heart purer than gold. No amount of darkness can take that away."
His Pokémon gathered around on the left and kept themselves close to one another.
A golden light was seen twinkling in the sky, and it was pretty bright. Everyone's comfort was on hold when the star got their attention.
Nic's eyes widened when his Plates were reacting strongly.
"What is it, Nic?" Erza asked.
Nic stood up and looked at the gold star in the starry night sky. It was pure force without any level of restraint. "This light. It's him!"
"You mean…" Erza got up as well. She looked on as the golden star above began to descend at the speed of light. It gave off a radiant glow, and it came closer, shining valiantly and without flaw. All of Nic's Pokémon looked up at the light descending, seeing what the energy was.
The large light high above the sea settled in that one spot. Fifty feet up from the waters and looking down at the eight, the light revealed itself as it dimmed. The light faded away, giving view to Arceus in a vivid shine. He looked brim and full of life.
"Arceus." Nic said in surprise.
Erza's eyes were wide, "His power, it's off the charts…" Of course she forgot that he had infinite power, but that was not important at the moment.
By Arceus's side, two tears in space were made. Out of them came pink and blue stardust. Naturally it was Dialga and Palkia who emerged, both right by Arceus's side.
"My friends, I welcome you. Congratulations." Arceus said. "You have won."
"The crisis was averted. The stars in the heavens have returned from the void." Dialga explained.
"It was a long road, but now it's to an end." Palkia said.
"All concept of time and space has returned to normal. Everything is as it should be." Arceus said. "My friends, the long battle is finally over."
Nic smiled, as did his Pokémon. Nic looked over towards Erza and she was smiling happily as well.
"Allow me to thank you. Nic Pularis and friends, on behalf of the heavens and the universe, we thank you for the sacrifices and the arduous efforts you've put into ascertaining all eighteen Plates. Your success has brought light back into life. I thank you heavily, all seven of you, for fighting the scourge known as the Dark Legendaries. Their actions and deception is what triggered such peril."
Nic's eyes widened when he realized something. "Wait. What happened to them?"
Arceus raised his head high. "Do not be alarmed. I have dealt with them accordingly. Never again shall they deploy such evil into the void."
"Very well. Thank you." Nic honestly wasn't sure if Arceus had just gone and erased their memories, or separated them and then did that, or what. He knows Arceus wouldn't put them in the void again and that's a good thing. You learn from your mistakes.
"Ages ago, when I banished and sealed them away for their violent intentions, I did not have any idea that they'd use a misguided puppet for their dirty work. I had no idea that their hatred would be directed towards all life. Especially you, Nic Pularis. I was hoping that by directing you to another world that it shall buy you the time to gain the experience and power to fend against them."
Nic didn't hold anything against them. It wasn't their fault; desperation brings tidings to many things. If he was the trump card, then so be it. Besides, it wasn't at all a bad thing. He was actually glad, because he got to meet Erza. In this adventure or the Plates, he found love. Someone to share the pain and experience with.
Nic grinned. "It was our honor."
"We have been keeping a very watchful eye on you this whole time. And, based on what was observed, the success of this plan had everything to do with the love and loyalty between you and your Pokémon." Arceus explained.
"You call yourselves family, but we have agreed that it is more than that." Dialga said.
"Time and space has bounded you seven in one. You seven are linked for eternity." Palkia told.
Nic and his Pokémon all looked at each other with shock. When they each stared at one another, it did make sense. They were so accustomed to another. They were all irreplaceable. They all then looked back up towards Arceus.
"Nic Pularis. You sacrificed your freedom in your youth. You made yourself a victim of ill-will and vile intention to hold your little sister dear and out of harm's way. A noble action that gave birth to your durability and stubborn defiance against all. You have thus chosen your own path to search what was your style. You have chosen the path of a unique trainer with no equal. The exercises and training you've been put through were by yourself. You have ascertained the understanding of Pokémon by being in their shoes. By training with them, putting yourself in harm's way constantly, you have adapted and find your being integrated in the duration of your adventures with your Pokémon. The pure heart of a human, but the soul of the most versatile of Pokémon. That is why I chose you."
Nic gasped in shock.
"The world you grew up in. People and Pokémon may see the other as equals, and are in everyday life, but their bonds can either go so far, or they can be breached. Only so few have proven that with so few Pokémon…but you have shared that bond that can go beyond any and all limitations. Loyalty and faith is everlasting in your eyes. It brings me joy that you see Pokémon as your brothers and sisters. More so; family being death."
All seven smiled proudly by Arceus's words of praise.
It was now the moment of truth. "Now, Nic Pularis, it is time to return what is rightfully mine."
Nic lost his confidence. Erza looked towards Nic as he lowered his head. She saw that he was gonna give up infinite power. She really wanted to say something. She could've asked him what it felt like, but then again those things were best left unsaid. The burden had to be lifted, as it shall be.
Nic looked up towards Arceus. "So…what happens to my powers? Are they…?"
Arceus didn't look so bummed. "It's alright. Don't let your worries take over."
"Nic, you've been integrated with the Plates for so long now." Dialga explained. "You will lose a hefty fraction of the abilities and powers you ascertained, but thanks to the Plates stability within you, you can use your powers all you want."
Nic, again, was speechless. "So, that means I get to keep my prowess."
"Of course. It's the least that we can do to thank you for all that you've done." Arceus then raised a brow. "Although…turning into me, was a once in a lifetime deal."
Nic grinned. "I understand. Omnipotence is a little overbearing."
Arceus chuckled some. "Ah, yes. Nic, now…"
Nic took in a deep breath. Erza and the six took a step back as Arceus's eyes glowed brightly, using his own powers. Nic's core was brimming with gold. Inside, Nic was feeling hundreds and thousands of years of all elements and knowledge flash. It was a lot to take in, and it felt like the core within him practically spliced into its own half. It felt like a ten ton stone was lifted from the pit of his stomach, and Nic jerked back as his body flashed a bright, golden light. The light manifested in front.
"Is that…?" Erza watched as the golden light separated into eighteen Plates of all different colors. The Plates all circled around in a wheel. Nic watched as the wheel of Plates expanded. The Plates all made way and circled around Arceus. Arceus's body gave another golden light. All at once, the Plates went into his body, and intricate golden streams emerged and faded from his body.
When they faded, Arceus was looking better than before. His shine actually made the seawater crystal clear, and the moon was brighter. The eight of them looked up to see the stars in the sky twinkling brightly.
"The Plates are where they belong." Palkia said. "We are forever in your debt, Nic Pularis."
"Thank you." He was thankful he got to keep his powers, but he did lose some strength, including the Arceus powers, but he can live with that. He had his whole life ahead of him. With that said, he looked towards his right. He looked at Erza. The two shared the same gaze; the gaze of wonder and worry. A sea breeze went pass them both. They stared tentatively, and it seemed there was something off or wrong.
Nic turned towards Arceus, wondering what had to be done. "Arceus…will I have to head back to my world?"
It wasn't a pretty question, and if Erza was honest, she wished it was never asked. She wanted to be with Nic. If she wasn't who knows what will happen? She was broken several times, and she can't feel the same again knowing they'll never be able to see the other, ever.
Arceus gave his answer. "That's not entirely true."
Everyone's eyes widened. In Erza's case, the light in her eyes brightened.
"Nic, you have joined these two worlds together. Nic, you have gained more than enough power to rival that of the Plates themselves. You can do whatever you see fit. It would make no sense to keep you separated from those who you've grown attached to. You have earned the right to live wherever you may see fit."
Erza looked at Nic. "I'm glad."
Nic smiled back. "Yeah, me too." He turned towards his left. "And what do you guys say about us being here?"
"I will go anywhere with you, pal." Greninja held up a fist.
Kecleon tilted her head. "No words needed."
Charizard huffed some flame off to the side. "Like heck I'd disagree with any challenge thrown our way."
"I second that." Staraptor said.
Arbok hissed and bowed. "With all of ussss and Nic-ssssama, anywhere shall be fine."
"Tch, as long as we got something to keep us sane, I'm all for it." Garchomp said, in his way saying he'll follow them anywhere and everywhere.
"You can travel between worlds whenever you want. You can open a dimensional tear yourself, Nic Pularis." Arceus told. His altitude arose and continued escalating. "And so, this is farewell. While I can't predict what shall come next for you, I can say that as long as you all face it – together – nothing will ever stop you."
Nic smiled and nodded. "Arceus."
"Be well, my young friends." Arceus ascended and flew through the air. He strode over their hands, as though leaping through air itself. He did a turn and he ascended high into the sky. It looked as though he was heading towards the moon. He escalated high and a golden tear opened up. He ventured inside the confines of time and space to find a suitable spot for his slumber. The portal went shut behind him, making gold sparkles twinkle in its place.
"And so, we too are relieved of duty, and shall venture off on our own." Dialga said. He lifted himself and went off.
Palkia nodded down at Nic and roared out loud. "My young friends, be well with whatever you choose next."
He and Dialga thus flew into the sky, where they entered blue and pink tears in space respectively. They both went inside their own dimension of stardust, and the tears closed and vanished.
With all of that over, Nic dropped to his knees, a proud smile as his eyes mist. "We did it. It's finally over."
Erza knelt down to Nic and she had misty eyes as well. She was so happy Nic could live in both worlds. She was so happy they can be together, forever. She wrapped her arms around his neck as they rejoiced.
"Nic, is it true? You're gonna stay?"
Nic pressed into her hug, wrapping his arms around her again. "I'm not going anywhere. As long as my Pokémon, my sister, and you are with me…anywhere is home for me."
Erza's smile widened. "Well then…welcome home."
Erza and Nic both pulled apart. The redhead looked at Nic again, and he looked as tired as can be. He needed sleep, food, and water. The other six were no different. She'll return the dress in the morning, but this time was for her and Nic. Both leaned into and Erza slipped her bottom lip right over his. The two kissed and tilted their heads as their lips locked. It's been forever since they were this close again, and they were so happy they were gonna stay like this.
With Erza's head tilted away, Nic's eyes opened slightly as his head faced the sea and moon. His Pokémon and eyes looked up above where the moon was.
Eight ethereal figures were seen. Images of the future Pokémon stood right beside Future Nic as Future Erza stood alongside him. All eight images grew smiles and turned away. Future Nic and Future Erza reached and interlocked their figures.
As all eight walked off with eternal happiness, their images faded into the norm.
And that's a wrap! Thank you all for readingto the finale! I want to once again thank you all who favored, followed, and reviewed along the way. This chapter's final update was also the same day my dog passed away, as he passed on this morning. It's sad, so that emotion was conveyed into the funeral for the future-selves. Still, he was a good dog.
I am indeed making plans for a sequel, however, I also want to get One's Road to Remembrance a lot of time since it'll now be my only story for until the sequel is set and ready. I don't make promises, but due to the excessive ideas I have, and the fact Fairy Tail is still ongoing, I say the sequel shall be started up maybe in November. Yes I will involve canon arcs; no I won't do the Eclipse Arc. I will add my unique original arcs for some vivid flavor.
This story has been given a lot of praise and criticism, and thanks to that I powered on with my plot. The Fairy Contender has achieved a plot revolving around the Plates and a main antagonist. In your final reviews, tell me what you loved about the story, Nic's Pokémon, the plot, NicxErza, anything. Thank you guys for giving this story a chance.
This is Insane Dominator, and thanks for reading!