Chapter 26 - Fairy's Flight
Fairy Tail
"Mush! Mush! Move faster!" Mirajane, who was in Satan Soul form, commanded as she whipped some of the men.
The reason for this whipping is that Mirajane was helping in carrying Tiamat's eggs. Despite Makarov's displeasure, the primordial goddess wanted her offspring to the secret underground area below the guild. Makarov had some secret or something going on down there and g fhe would have preferred that Tiamat didn't use it as a nest for her eggs.
Still, at least it didn't reach whatever he was really hiding. The eggs were big but there appeared to be a lot of space. It's a good thing the guild wizards were made of less than intelligent individuals and a lot of trusting people. Sometimes questioning things isn't worth it if answer is too complicated and convoluted. to make any difference.
*WHIP*
"Do you need to use that woman!?" Gajeel angrily asked.
"Yeah! My back hurts!" Gray yelled.
"Please be merciful on my husband to be!" Juvia pleaded.
"I never agreed to that!" Gray yelled.
"You groped her, remember? You're a stripper and a pervert." Natsu said, laughing at Gray's mistake before being whipped as well.
As a reminder, there is an old law in Fiore that grabbing a woman by the breasts is considered the same action as a marriage proposal. The bride has three days to decline if they are not interested in marriage. At the same time, they are allowed to beat up the man who proposed for cupping a feel. The decision time is extended to an entire week if only one of the breast's is grabbed. Juvia never declined and Gray never rescinded his accidental request, therefore they are legally engaged.
Also, while this law is very old, it was never abolished, revised and currently does not conflict with any known laws in Fiore.
"Whatever ice cube, your future is with the Rain Woman. Your future kid says it all." Gajeel said while looking at Miyu.
"Miyu is the daughter of the Rain Woman and Exhibitionist." Miyu said, copying her mother.
"I'm screwed." Gray said before Mira whipped again. "Knock that off!" Gray yelled before being whipped again.
Meanwhile, inside of the guild
Lucy had her own concerns as she was working out the details of her other job besides being a guild wizard. She was seven years behind her books and planned to have a couple of them finished after she returned from Tenrou Island. This was a nightmare and the only one who wouldn't be concerned about her books is Levy because Levy was gone for seven years too!
"Oh man, this is a nightmare." Lucy said as she looked at the notes from her publishers.
"Art is never finished Lucy, remember my words." Da Vinci said as she passed by.
"But deadlines are always come first and I've missed them." Lucy replied.
"Hiatus, a real nightmare for those working in literature. Though your case is much worse, child." Shakespeare said as he worked on his own papers. "The maiden sits in woe, a jolly bad show." he added.
"You're not helping!" Lucy said.
"Then who's books need to be finished?" Da Vinci curiously asked.
"Lots of them!" Lucy said as she groaned.
"You better get writing quickly." Da Vinci said.
Later that day, Lucy's Apartment
Lucy immediately got to working on the final chapters of her next servant, The Roman Hero Romulus. The man born from the union between the Roman God of War, Mars, and Princess Rhea Silvia that was literally raised by a wolf. Lucy would finish the story with Romulus' disappearance after what was supposedly meant to be his ascension into godhood as intended by his father, Mars. With Lucy confirming that the Romulus' story technically ends after ascending into a forgotten god by the name of Quirinus.
With Romulus standing at the same level of greatness for laying the foundations of the Roman Empire. Allowing him to stand besidehis father and grandfather, Jupiter, as a fellow chief god. From here, Lucy revised her work to see if there were any mistakes or ways to improve the story.
However, her focus was cut off as Shirou was being tugged around like a toy. She looked behind her to see Miyu and Ilya pulling on Shirou's arms as they fought over him.
"Mine!" Ilya yelled.
"No, mine!" Miyu shouted.
"He's my baby brother!" Ilya argued.
"He belongs to me!" Miyu argued back.
"Mama!" Shirou panicked.
Lucy groaned, "Girls, can you two play with Shirou in a way that requires less roughhousing?" she asked. "Can't you two work it out over tennis or something? Preferably whatever what won't end up breaking the boy?" she asked.
The girls glared at each other to the point that sparks came out from their foreheads and battled over dominance for Shirou.
"Fine!" the girls said.
The two then dragged Shirou out the door to continue competing for him in another way. Leaving Shirou to cry and beg for Lucy to help him.
"Be back before six!" Lucy shouted as they left. "Okay then, that's the end of Romulus. Now I'll have to finish up Moriarty. I wonder if I can convince Solomon to let me write about him afterwards." she said as she went back to writing.
As she continued the story of Sherlock Holmes' nemesis. Lucy's writing was interrupted again, this time it came from the window. Lucy groaned as she saw Natsu waving to her while on a latter. Lucy dared to ask what Natsu was up to by opening the window. Where she got a bag shoved in front of her face.
"Hey Luce, I heard you had to go back to studying." Natsu said.
"I'm writing, not studying." Lucy corrected.
"Well anyways, I got you some snacks." Natsu said as Lucy took the bag.
"That's actually sweet of you Natsu. Thank you." Lucy said as she looked at the contents inside of the bag.
It was just a bunch of baked goods. Something that many people would discourage when studying or writing or anything desk related that required focus. Still, they looked good and Lucy would probably save them for later.
"I also got you one of those smoothies from that new place in town." Natsu said, handing her a cup.
Lucy was grateful for the gifts and for how considerate Natsu is being. However, things started to go bad when Natsu's usual personality kicked in. Where he grabbed a piece of bread and raised it at Lucy.
"Here, it's really tasty. It can help your brain grow, I think." Natsu said as he placed the food against her lips.
"Natsu, no!" Lucy said as she tried pushing his arms out.
"Just let me feed you Luce. Take one bite." Natsu said.
"No!" Lucy said as she accidentally pushed Natsu down along with the latter. "Oh my gosh! Natsu?" she asked.
"I'm fine Luce! Except that doesn't excuse you for being picky!" Natsu said, making Lucy sweat drop.
That sounds like an ironic statement meant for Natsu, by Erza. Seeing where Natsu came from, it's safe to assume that Erza likely had to teach Natsu more than basic literacy.
But Lucy had to argue with him, "Natsu, I do not like being force fed. Who even told you that is the appropriate thing to do?" she asked.
"Lisanna." Natsu answered.
"What?" Lucy asked.
"Lisanna said it was a good idea and a bunch of other stuff I can't understand and remember." Natsu answered.
Lucy sighed, 'Really? Mira's sister?' she thought. 'Actually, have I interacted with Lisanna for more than a minute?' she wondered.
Natsu put his latter back up, "I'm coming back up there Luce." he said.
"Natsu, you need a real lesson in manners. Not the kind that ends with a beating, but one you can understand." Lucy said as he climbed up.
"Oh thank kami! Lisanna and Mira are super confusing with their weird advice." Natsu said, sighing in relief.
"Wait, why were you asking them for advice?" Lucy asked.
"Uh… actually now that I think about it. I gotta go comb my goat." Natsu said as he tried to run away.
Lucy grabbed onto him tightly, "No you don't! You're not allowed near goats, last time I checked!" she said as she managed to drag Natsu into her apartment.
Natsu tried wiggling out of bind before Lucy started flickering between her normal self and dark self. Only allowing it because her darker half had a lot more physical strength to force Natsu to stay.
"What else did you ask them?" Lucy asked.
"Nothing! They came to me! I never asked for the advice!" Natsu replied.
A part of Lucy told her that Natsu was lying, then again knowing how Mirajane Strauss is. It sounds like Lisanna also developed a habit of teasing people and trying to act as matchmakers. It was bad enough that Mira somehow had a copy of her apartment keys which allowed her teammates to access her home until she put up the magical barrier to keep intruders away.
Either Natsu was really trying to make a move or he was being motivated by the girls. The young man, like many, didn't have much knowledge in the department of romance. So it would be easy to get the wrong information that didn't suit the targeted individual.
"Tell the truth!" Lucy demanded.
"I am!" Natsu responded.
"I will tell Quetzalcoatl that you want to be her sparring partner." Lucy threatened.
"But I am telling the truth!" Natsu pleaded.
Meanwhile, at the guild
Erza was wearing some kind of uniform meant for someone who works in a nursery. She came with a baby carrier and vest strapped on as well. As she came out from under the guild where the eggs were. She overheard Makarov communicating with Macao who looked disapproving.
"And what's so bad about it? Tell me more about this contest." Makarov demanded.
"It's not just a contest master. Besides, the guild doesn't even need the prize money that comes with winning." Macao said as he shook his head.
"If there's money involved, then I want to know about it." Makarov said, sounding more motivated.
"You should have kept your mouth shut about the money, Macao." Wakaba said with a snort.
Macao sighed, "Master, we've attempted to sign up for the games several tomes. At best, we've reached the finals twice and still lost." he said.
"It's nothing shameful, unless you did something embarrassing to lose that is." Makarov said.
"Excuse me master, what are you two talking about?" Erza asked.
"The Grand Magic Games, some contest that started while we were having an extended nap on the island. Except Macao here doesn't want to tell me about it." Makarov explained while glaring at his subordinate.
Then Romeo came running up, "I can explain it!" he said.
"Go ahead boy." Makarov said.
Romeo explained the details of the Grand Magic Games much to his father's discomfort. Although, Romeo is still a young boy and was missing a few details as he explained what was so important about this prestigious event.
"So about a year after you guys disappeared. They host these games in the capital of Fiore to decide who's the strongest guild." Romeo explained.
"That does sound quite interesting." Makarov said as he scratched his chin.
"With a prize of thirty million jewel and bragging right." Romeo added.
"Thirty million!?" Makarov asked with wide eyes. "We need to sign up right away!" he exclaimed.
Macao tried to calm him down, "Master, it's not that easy. The challenges change every year and it's already difficult to reach the finals without failing the preliminaries." he explained.
"And how did you reach the finals at all?" Erza asked.
That's when they heard a mug being slammed down, "These idiots were too quick to quit." Leonidas said as he put his drink down. "This idiot over here turned into a beached whale until we forced him back into shape." he said while sticking his thumb at Droy.
This caught Levy's attention, "Droy? You gained weight?" she asked.
Droy started crying, "It's true! I could barely fit through the door after you guys disappeared!" he said as he grabbed a turkey leg.
"You better be planning to run ten kilometers after eating that leg!" Leonidas yelled.
"Yes general." Droy said, now crying that he has to exercise.
"And you Jet?" Levy asked.
Jet laughed, "I'm just naturally fit." he said. "To be fair, a lot of us were being downers and didn't train enough. But we came super close last time and some of you guys can possibly help us win this year too!" he said, sounding optimistic.
"Yeah, we got Natsu, Erza and everyone else back. So we can definitely win now!" Droy said, feeling a whole lot happier now.
"Everyone calm down, we can't get our hopes up! The Games are really difficult on their own. The real challenge is competing with the other guilds too." Macao said, taking this approach as a realist.
"Such words of negativity, coming from a man who was rejected for a rock, Umu." Nero said.
"I'm gonna have to side with Nero. I can't take the word of someone who's less trustworthy than a rock." Gray said as everyone looked at the rock sitting on a throne.
"Is that the same rock my mother fed to my father?" Demeter asked.
Considering who Demeter's brother was and the hypocrisy he lives by. Demeter would have come to respect the rock as the true leader of the Olympians. Maybe then there wouldn't be as many conflicts caused by Zeus' desire to have sexual relations with every human and anima that intrested him.
"I think we should ask the rock for advice." Nursery Rhyme said.
"I agree." Jack said.
The rock slightly tilted from it's seat.
"You heard the rock Macao, we're participating in the games." Makarov said, making Macao sigh.
Wakaba chuckled, "Don't let this bring you down Macao. The rock is just charismatic and wise." he said.
"Also didn't Lucy say it was a lesser god? It must be pretty wise." Makarov said to mess with Macao.
"Fine, I hope you know what you're doing master." Macao said, giving up on discouraging him.
Before Makarov could try to prepare his guild for the Grand Magic Games and win the title of best guild (as well as lots of money), he noticed Erza's strange attire.
"Erza, were you volunteering at a nursery?" Makarov asked.
"Sort of Master, someone has to help Tiamat with her unborn children. Juvia is down there helping as well." Erza explained.
Makarov's eye twitch, "I can tell that half of our prize money is going to end up building a daycare center for dragons." he said.
"I'm am sure that Tiamat will be happy to hear of your generous donation." Erza said happily.
"It's not so much of a donation, rather insurance for my hall." Makarov said.
"Either one is acceptable." Erza said before Juvia appeared from under the guild.
"Erza-san, Tiamat-san requests snacks." Juvia said.
"The infants are hatching?" Erza asked with wide eyes.
"No, they are for Tiamat-san herself. She seems quiet hungry despite having already given birth." Juvia explained before going back down.
"And now, I must fetch a mother her food so that she can continue incubating her babies." Erza said as she left to ask Mira for some food.
Makarov sighed, "Now you see the new reason for this prize money." He told Macao.
He could hear the sounds that only further motivated him. The specific sounds coming from under the floorboards which was weird because the entryway to the secret underground isn't directly accessed from the basement.
'I think I should focus on the upcoming games.' Makarov thought as he looked around.
Later, the beach
The Thunder God Tribe was hugging Laxus who looked very uncomfortable. The reason being that he was wearing a collar with a bell attached.
"Get off of me and stop crying!" Laxus demanded.
"We're just so happy!" Biscklow cried.
"The Master finally let you back into the guild!" Freed cried out as well.
It was true, after a lot of time and consideration. Makarov decided to allow Laxus to return to the guild if he accepted, but under certain conditions. Laxus immediately regretted accepting returning to his home because of the conditions. The two big ones were that Laxus has his S Class status revoked and that he has to wear the bell collar to keep track of him. Since Makarov didn't want his grandson to go crazy and accidentally blow up the town again.
The collar itself keeps his power restrained as well as keeps tabs of his movements. It sounded like a lot, but everyone in Fairy Tail is a bit too wild. They didn't want to give the Magic Council any legal reason to finally shut them down. If Mest was around for the Battle for Fairy Tail, then he probably could have had Laxus and his friends arrested as well.
"Also, this collar makes you look fetching. I'm sure all of the women will fall for you." Evergreen said as she tugged on the bell collar.
"I don't like it. Freed, help me take it of." Laxus said.
Freed looked hesitant, "But the master…" he tried tos ay.
"Take it off! I want it off now!" Laxus yelled.
It was a bad time to yell something so obscene at a public beach. Because now the public looked at Laxus as if he were a lunatic. With parents covering the ears and eyes of their children. Assuming that Laxus was demanding his entire group begin stripping down.
"Maybe we should move this conversation elsewhere." Evergreen suggested.
"Yeah, I don't want to get arrested again." Biscklow said.
"What do you mean by "again"!? What did you did do!?" Evergreen asked.
Bickslow chose not to answer Evergreen's question, not unless he wanted to be kicked out of the team. Laxus just came back but they would probably disband again if they found out the truth. Moving along, everyone was spending their time trying to train on the beach.
Natsu being the one who overdoes it the most. But luckily he had big sister Erza to help with his progress.
"That's good Natsu, feel your weapons! Make them feel a part of your body!" Erza said as she blocked all of Natsu's rabid attacks.
"I know that Erza! It's my magic, it comes from my body!" Natsu yelled as he used his weapon generation with his fire magic.
"Not like that Natsu. You're just throwing punches with your swords. You have to make them feel natural." Erza said before sweeping the leg. "Also, remember that sweeping the leg is not a traditional sword technique, but it is still a technique nonetheless." she said as Natsu hit the sand.
Natsu growled, "Let me try again!" he said as he got to his feet.
"Very well, but I will make it more easy for you." Erza said as she put her swords away. "I'll fight you with both hands tied behind my back." she said.
"Erza, there's no time for your perverted mind. I want to train!" Natsu said as he summoned his blades of fire.
"Natsu!" Erza yelled, thinking Natsu insulted her.
"Erza, you can rip out my guts and organs, but that doesn't make you any less of a closet pervert." Natsu said.
If there was any reason Erza would ever have to say that she hated Natsu. It would be that he is correct about a flaw that Erza has that she could never fix. It's one thing to damage Erza's pride, but it's another thing to point out the truth of her flaws.
"Then let me show you the power of a pervert, Natsu." Erza said as she bound her arms together.
Which scared Natsu, "Help! Pervert!" he yelled as he ran away.
"Come back here! I am making it easy for you!" Erza yelled.
Erza would more than likely still have an easy time fighting Natsu despite having her arms bound behind her back.
With Lucy
While everyone else was trying their best to get stronger. Lucy was speaking with the wisest man in history and king of magic. Otherwise known as Solomon the Wise.
"To be one with magic, you must know you yourself." Solomon said. "He who ignores discipline despises himself, but he who heeds correction gains understanding." he continued to say.
"So I have to admit and learn from mistakes? But how do I know what they are?" Lucy asked.
Solomon chuckled, "Do you feel that you know where you want to improve? What aspect you wish better yourself?" he asked.
"I never thought about it. At least not lately." Lucy answered truthfully.
"Then what is it that you want?" Solomon asked, further questioning Lucy's motivation.
Lucy took a deep breath and relaxed her mind. Deep in her mind, Lucy tried thinking of a good way to answer Solomon's question. How do you answer a question for a man who can figure out every answer himself? Lucy dug into her old memories dating back to her childhood and her fascination with magic. Even going as far as to remember when Justeaze's spirit came to her.
However, had Lucy been close to finding an epiphany that would help her grow. It was ruined by Virgo who appeared under the sand lifted Lucy up with her own head.
"And you summoned a maid. Is this a metaphor for servitude?" Solomon asked.
"It is a message and the message is that I should be punished." Virgo said.
Solomon frowned, "I have no way to respond to masochism." he said before awkwardly returning to the Throne of Heroes.
Lucy sighed at her spirit, "Virgo, I know I've been gone a while but do you really need to see me that badly?" she asked.
"I admit, I felt concern for your disappearance, princess. However, the time went by so fast for me and the others." Virgo answered.
"Oh right, three months here is one day in the celestial spirit world." Lucy said, remembering something she chose to repress.
In an attempt to learn more, Lucy went to the Celestial Spirit realm. Unfortunately, while there is a way to survive that dimension, Lucy's problem is the concept of time. Thus, Lucy no longer wants to visit the realm unless it's important. Though it's unlikely that the Celestial Spirit King or some of the higher grade spirits would want a human exploring their home dimension as if they were on vacation.
Perhaps that's why Leo felt a lot of pain when he went on strike against Karen. It must have been like swimming underwater for days without oxygen. What could have been a few minutes for Leo actually turned into days.
"Hey thinking about it, how long is a day here for you? I've gone days without summoning a spirit. For you guys, it must have been like an hour at most." Lucy said.
"Princess, there is no time for mathematics. Everyone in the realm wants to invite you and your friends to a celebration in honor of your return and the years you've spent with us." Virgo explained.
"Wow, that sounds nice actually. I'll go fetch everyone." Lucy said.
"Bring young Shirou as well." Virgo said as Lucy left to find her friends. "I will go find Arthur too." she said as she ran to locate her boyfriend.
For anyone who thought this kind of relationship is weird. It's best to remember that Demeter's son-in-law is also her brother. Then again, Olympians have no concept of blood family. Except for Zeus because he's a mama's boy and so is his son, Ares. There are too many mama's boys in mythology.
A while later
Lucy brought most of the group that was with her on Tenrou Island as well as Shirou. When she returned, she found Arthur waiting with Virgo. Lucy sighed as she had one of those moments where she remembers the relationship between her contracted celestial spirit and her son from an alternate future.
"So what's this about a party?" Gray asked.
"This celebration is being held in the Celestial Spirit Realm and being hosted by our king himself." Virgo answered.
"Such an honor." Erza said, sounding surprised and happy.
"Hang on a minute! How are we gonna go? I didn't feel it when we fought, but Lucy said that we can't breath in your dimension." Natsu said.
"Is this true Lucy?" Erza asked.
"There's some custom made clothes than can let us breathe in the atmosphere. So don't worry about it Erza." Lucy answered.
"Wow, the realm where the celestial spirits come from. I wonder what tha place is like." Levy said, sounding curious and excited.
"There better be lots of grub! It ain't a party if there's no grub!" Gajeel exclaimed.
"Gajeel!" Levy yelled.
"I'm agree with metal head for once." Natsu said.
"Natsu, do I need to teach you manners again?" Erza asked as she gave the dragon slayer a threatening gaze.
Natsu looked confused, "I'm just politely agreeing with my associate Erza." he said.
"Salamander, did you start reading a thesaurus or something?" Gajeel asked, feeling confused about Natsu's new usage of words.
"Of course not, those things are extinct." Natsu said.
Levy sweat dropped, "Natsu, a thesaurus is a book." she said.
"You are weird Levy." Natsu said, feeling confused.
"Enough, can we go before Natsu spreads his stupidity?" Gray asked.
"Yes, we may go." Virgo said as she prepared to take everyone to her home realm.
Lucy quickly looked at Merlin and Gilgamesh, "You two should get that magic circle ready. Time moves differently in the celestial spirit realm." she said.
"Yes, yes, attend your ceremony. Begone already, I will have finished this by myself without this fool's help." Gilgamesh said while pointing at Merlin.
"I am quite resourceful myself King Gilgamesh, this magic circle will use time magic so it will be complicated." Merlin said.
"Child's play." Gilgamesh replied.
"Be nice!" Lucy commanded.
"And to punishment town, we go." Virgo said.
"Wrong stop." Lucy said.
"I mean the celestial spirit realm." Virgo said, correcting herself.
As they left, Merlin started working on the magic seal. This should be simple but delicate. Now, let us do this with caution your majesty." Merlin cheerfully said, but Gilgamesh scoffed.
Hours later
Gilgamesh was sun bathing while Merlin was having a hard time with the seal.
"We have the formula, what is your issue?" the King of Heroes asked.
"My issue is that this magic circle is about as complete as a table from Ikea." Merlin said as he looked exhausted.
"Were you missing this fragment by chance?" Gilgamesh asked as he revealed a magic scripture on his hand.
Merlin's eye twitched when he saw it, "How long have you had it?" he asked.
"How long have you been looking for it?" Gilgamesh asked back. Merlin quietly ripped the scripture out of his hand, "So rude, it is no wonder you found yourself trapped within a tower in another realm." he said.
"I am going to ignore you now." Merlin said.
"You put the magic scriptures on backwards." Gilgamesh said before the circle exploded in his face. "I told you." he said, continuing to sunbathe in peace.
Merlin sighed, "How did this become so complicated?" he asked.
"How did you not realize that you drew the magic circle backwards?" Gilgamesh asked.
Merlin chose to ignore Gilgamesh and attempted to do the same work again. Meanwhile Medea could be seen chasing around some of the child servants with some clothes on hand.
"Help!" one of them yelled.
"No need to scream! I've made lovely bathing suits for all of you!" Medea said as she kept chasing them around.
"Leave us alone!" another child yelled.
Gilgamesh slurped from a coconut, "I see why Circe's niece could never find herself a husband to bare children with." he said.
"Why you little!" Medea angrily yelled.
Gilgamesh ignored the woman as he continued to sunbathe. At the same time, he looked at a sheet of paper he had in front of him with the perfected magic circle needed. So that Lucy would immediately return to this period in time rather than three months. Especially with the fact that the guild master said that they will be signing up for the Grand Magic Games. The King of Uruk rolled his eyes as he thought about the failures of the past and wishes to see the guild do better now that their stronger members have returned.
Assuming they can keep up with the other guilds as they have grown strong in the past five years. Celestial Spirits and familiars are not illegal in the competitions but only half of the entire tournament is fighting. They could handle the other guilds, but still screw up by coming last in every other challenge.
"You want me to write it, Magus of Flowers?" Gilgamesh asked as Merlin seemed to have finished.
"I have it under control!" Merlin said as the magic circle started lighting up. "And now Lucy will return to us shortly rather than in three months!" he said as the magic circle summoned someone.
Instead of Lucy or any member of the guild. A strange man with black and white hair who had the appearance of an edge lord appeared. He was laughing maniacally for a while before noticing where he was.
"There is no use, the world will be destroyed by… where am I?" the man asked.
"What did you summon?" Gilgamesh asked.
"I think I summoned a member of a grunge rock band. No need to fear though, I will simply return him." Merlin said only for a shark to appear and bite the upper half of the man.
"What is this!? Why is there a shark here!?" the man asked.
"Get him out of here already." Gilgamesh said.
Merlin sighed, "It takes a moment to recalibrate this circle." he said before a harpoon gun hit the man in the leg.
"AHHH!" The man screeched in pain. The a massive squid started pulling on his legs, "I must be in hell!" he said.
"Calm down sir, you will be sent back to your concert shortly." Merlin said when a snapping turtle crawled onto land and bit the man on the crotch.
Medea covered the eyes of the children, "Look away children, you do not need to witness such violence." she said.
The man continued to scream and curse before Merlin sent the man back. After a few moments, Lucy's group returned wearing outfits that appeared to be of Virgo's design.
"You all appeared to have had much fun." Merlin pointed out.
"We sure did! We gotta send a thank you note to mustache face later." Lucy said.
"Did we miss anything while we were gone?" Erza asked. Gilgamesh snickered, "Is something comical?" she asked.
Merlin shook his hands around, "Nothing! It was nothing! There was definitely nothing bad involving grunge rock bands or people who are hated by sea creatures or anything like that!" he lied.
"Very well." Erza said, believing Merlin's far fetched words.
"Damn, it's late already." Natsu said. "I guess we have to continue training tomorrow." he said.
"Whatever pyro, I'm the one that's going to win the magic games for us." Gray said.
"You're pretty stupid yourself, Fullbuster. I can take on all of those guilds by myself." Gajeel said.
"You wish!" Gray and Natsu yelled.
Gajeel laughed at their faces, "I could do it by myself if they let me. The only problem I'll face is exhaustion from how boring the fights are." he said.
"Says the guys who wasn't even nominated for the exams!" Natsu yelled.
"At least I didn't make it passed round 1 because I bored that Gildarts guy to death." Gajeel argued.
"Yeah, you helped Levy pass by taking the easy route." Gray yelled, initiating a fight.
Juvia ran towards the fight, "Darling please stop, Gajeel you too and Natsu-san you don't need to get angry all of the time!" she said.
Lucy groaned as she trapped all threw into separate cubes, "You three can fight tomorrow. The party exhausted Shirou and Ilya, so I'm taking them to bed." she said.
"Miyu also feels tired, I should take her home as well." Juvia said as she lifted Miyu into her arms.
"We should all rest early and wake up early, Fairy Tail deserves the victory spot in the games this year." Erza said.
"Good night everyone." Lucy said.
"Good night!"
"Night!"
"See you tomorrow!"
"I'm just gonna sleep on the sand!"
"Bye!"
Gilgamesh immediately sat up, "Magus of Flowers, did you just say you will sleep on the sand?" he asked.
The King of Uruk looked down to see that Merlin collapsed onto the sand immediately fell into a deep sleep. It didn't make any sense since he could just go back to Lucy and be summoned again at another to feel refreshed. Gilgamesh saw no need to wake up the Caster and chose to return to Lucy. Where he would patiently wait to return for when the appropriate moment of his glorious entry happens.
Three months later
With about a week or so left until the Grand Magic Games begin and today is a special day. Makarov was going to announce who he was nominate for the team that would represent Fairy Tail. It is also the day that the Strauss siblings and a couple of others would return from the mountains as they had their own training trip planned out. With Elfman showing that he had the most results as he was much taller and more muscular than ever.
"I'm a real man! I'm the realist man out there!" Elfman shouted.
Only for Evergreen to slap him with her purse, "Lower your voice, no one cares about your pride or witness your excessive amount of testosterone." she said.
"You didn't need to hit me so hard, Ever." Elfman said, making her blush.
"Do not call me that! Only my closest friends may call me that!" Evergreen said as she hit him again.
"Ow! Ever, this is not manly!" Elfman whined.
"Stop calling me that!" Evergreen yelled.
Laxus sighed, "Evergreen, cut it out with the tsundere crap. This is how you scare away men." he said.
"W-What are you talking about Laxus?" Evergreen asked.
"Tsundere women aren't cute, so stop hitting your boyfriend in public. It's annoying." Laxus replied.
Fried nodded in agreement, "Indeed it is." he said.
Bickslow started to laugh, "Yeah Evergreen, you might scare him away into another woman's arms." he said.
"I do not like him!" Evergreen shouted with a blush.
"Then why did you force him to take you as a partner?" Fried asked.
Evergreen started turning more red, "Because you chose to partner with Bickslow in the S Class trials instead of me!" she said.
"Woah! I don't know how you really feel Ever, but you can't blame the mascot. The mascot is always innocent." Elfman said.
"Eh? Who are you calling a mascot?" Bickslow asked.
For those who are confused, here is a reminder of what the Thunder God Tribe, or Raijinshu, really are.
Thunder God Tribe/Raijinshu (Laxus Fan Club)
Laxus (Laxus)
Fried (club president)
Evergreen (secretary)
Bickslow (Mascot)
And that is how the club works!
"Enough! I want to make my announcement right now!" Makarov spoke up.
Everyone settled down after that business with Evergreen allegedly having feelings for Elfman. Along with Bickslow being called a mascot because of his quirky behavior. Makarov cleared his throat and began to name the team that would represent them in the games.
"The team will be composed of Erza Scarlet, Natsu Dragneel, Lucy Heartfilia, Gray Fullbuster and…"
Everyone waited with anticipation as Makarov signaled for Mozart to work as a conductor for a drum roll. After a few seconds of drum rolling, makarov said the name of the final team member.
"The Rock!" Makarov said.
Everyone felt confused until Lisanna spoke up, "The actor?" she asked.
"No, I meant The Rock as in the very same rock that watched over the guild." Makarov explained.
"That's worse." Elfman commented.
Everyone looked over at the rock that was sitting on the throne. Only for it to roll off and shatter in hundred of little pebbles. Maybe this was an omen of bad luck or symbolism of how Zeus always fears that someone will dethrone him and continue the cycle of betrayal.
Regardless, Makarov had to make a quick change of plan now.
"Okay, I change my mind. Wendy Marvel will be the last member of this team." Makarov said.
"Me? Really?" Wendy asked with a nervous expression.
"We have faith in you Wendy, don't be so worried." Lisanna said.
"I guess Wendy is more of a man than me." Elfman said with a sigh.
Then Evergreen hit him, "Wendy is a girl, not a man you twit!" she said.
"You are an adult now, child." Charle said. "No wait, I meant adult… never mind. You are more mature today than yesterday." she said, trying to better explain herself.
Wendy felt unsure despite the praise she received, "Okay, I hope I meet everyone's expectations." she said.
"And now for Team B!" Makarov said, surprising everyone.
"Master, what do you mean by Team B?" Erza asked.
Makarov chuckled, "I was having some research done by Laki and a few others. When I found a technicality that will help us greatly." he said. "As of this year, the rules technically allow up to ten wizards from one guild. However, each team can only have five members so I remedied this by forming Team B." he explained.
"Is that really necessary gramps?" Natsu asked, thinking his team could win alone.
"I know, it sounds cheap but knowing this. I couldn't help myself, I even wanted to surprise you all when the real games begin after the qualifying rounds." Makarov continued to explain.
Lucy giggled, "I guess the master wants a definite victory." she said.
"I also thought the surprise is pointless because it's not like it would make sense to hide this and by the off chance that one team fails. There's still a back up team and… whatever! I'm covering all of my bases!" Makarov finished.
"So who's Team B?" Gray asked.
"It doesn't matter, we're winning this!" Natsu said.
Makarov began naming Team B, "Team B will be composed of Gajeel Redfox, Juvia Lockser, Mirajane Strauss, Laxus Dreyar… so long as my grandson behaves." he said, stopping to scold Laxus.
"I'm not gonna do anything bad! Get off of my case!" Laxus yelled.
"I am just reminding you of why you are wearing a collar, Laxus." Makarov said, giving Laxus a stern look.
Laxus scoffed at what his grandfather said while everyone else anxiously waited to hear who the fifth and final member of Team B would be.
"And before I say the final name, I just want to let you know that alternates have also been chosen. Each team is allowed to pick one backup member in case of emergency." Makarov said as everyone nodded. "Finally, the fifth member is… Elfman Strauss!" he said.
"YEAH! I AM A TRUE MAN!" Elfman yelled as he raised his biceps into the air.
"Enough of that "man" talk! It's always "man" this and "man" that!" Evergreen exclaimed.
"Just let your boyfriend have this, Ever." Laxus said.
"He is not my boyfriend!" Evergreen yelled.
Bickslow laughed, "Sure he is. You care so much about how he talks." he said, causing Evergreen to turn bright red.
"Aquarius can offer you advice on dating if you like." Juvia spoke up.
"What? I don't need dating advice." Evergreen said.
Somehow during the trip to the Celestial Spirit Realm, Juvia became better acquainted with Aquarius. Becoming friends with her in a way to the point that they can talk about relationships and Aquarius offered advice to Juvia.
"Very well, enjoy your stale dating life." Juvia said, further irking Evergreen.
Then Gray approached her, "Hey Juvia, we're still going that smoothie shop right? Miyu keeps bugging me about it." he said.
"Of course dear, I think the master is already finished." Juvia said.
"That I am, everyone rest up because we're going to Crocus tomorrow!" Makarov announced.
With that piece said, everyone went their separate ways to celebrate for the night. Miyu being a prime example by dragging her parents towards a smoothie shop that was barely created in this current point in time but should be relatively successful by the end of this century in her period. Natsu saw this and immediately lifted up Shirou into the air.
"Come on Shirou, since you're my kid. I'm teaching you Dragon Slayer magic, the same way your grandpa Igneel taught me." Natsu said.
"Mama help!" Shirou called out.
"Natsu, don't just drag him around!" Lucy said as she followed the pair.
Maybe Natsu decided to was a good time to get to know his future son better. At the same time, earn a better reputation from the boy other than being seen as a competent goof.
Later, Natsu's house
Lucy groaned as she summoned Artoria in her Alter Rider form to begin cleaning. The whole building that Natsu and Happy lived in was a mess. It made Lucy think that Natsu subconsciously breaks into her apartment because of the lack of stable living in this place. At least the physical building was stable and wouldn't fall apart the moment heavy wind picks up, but Lucy can only wonder if it was less of a mess during the seven years they were gone.
"Hey Luce, if you really want to help. I still have that maid costume I wanted to give you from when we tried to steal that rich guy's book." Natsu said as he pointed at the corner.
"Natsu why do you… wait are you a crossdresser!?" Lucy asked.
"No and also, I already get enough of hearing that joke from Happy." Natsu answered. "Also, I like to keep souvenirs of my adventurers." he said.
Lucy could tell that was the truth as she can see the mess of random objects including various job posters. Lucy assumed that they were kept around for processing at the guild or something. Then again, maybe the paperwork is more complicated so Mira and Makarov didn't need to keep the posters.
"O…kay." Lucy said. "Also, what are you doing to train Shirou?" she asked.
"I gotta get him to learn to eat fire. Since Igneel taught me in a more dangerous way, I gotta feed Shirou hot food." Natsu said as he heard his microwave beeping.
Natsu opened the device and pulled out some left over curry and put lots of seasoning over it. Once done, Natsu put the plate in front of Shirou who stared at it curiously.
"You want some curry with your seasoning?" Lucy asked.
"Luce, you can mock me all you want but that priest guy is still running that ramen shop." Natsu responded.
Natsu surprised Lucy with that statement. A whole bowl of that ramen made by Kotomine might as well be exchanged for a bottle of sulfuric acid. At least then, a doctor could better understand why every customer from that shop has a giant burning whole in their bowl system. So Natsu felt like he was less likely to harm his future son with his heavily seasoned curry.
"Eat up Shirou, then roar like your grandpa!" Natsu said.
Shirou whimpered as he ate the plate, resulting in him screaming as a giant wave of fire escaped his mouth. Natsu took the full frontal attack to his face while Lucy quickly hid behind a perfect cube to avoid the torrent of flames. When it was over, Shirou was panting and Natsu looked like he was caught in a bad wind.
"Are you happy now?" Lucy asked Natsu.
"I think Shirou needs more spice." Natsu answered while pulling out some peppers from his pocket.
Artoria Alter quickly grabbed his wrist, "Your house is already a mess. Do that outside." she commanded in a cold voice.
"Aye ma'am." Natsu said as he quickly grabbed Shirou and ran outside.
"Lucy, you should put a barrier around the house. I am not cleaning the smoldering aftermath of that fool's experiment." Artoria Alter said.
"Sure thing." Lucy said as she placed a Perfect Cube over the house.
Seconds later, Shirou let out another scream as the entire forest was engulfed in fire. It would take the entire night with the combined efforts of Sitonai, Anastasia, Aquarius and even Skadi to put out the giant forest fire before it could reach town. Still, it was a lot more tame compared to what would have happened to Kotomine's ramen.
However, that was bad news as Kotomine got the legal documents that allowed him to work as a vendor in Crocus during the games. So now his food was available for the entire week that the games would take place.
The next day
The Grand Magic Games were only a few days away and the guild was about to prepare for the long trip that awaited them. Both Teams were already packing their bags along with a couple of others who were tagging along to support them. The rest would stay behind and use something called Lacrima Vision which worked like a modern day television set.
"Okay everyone, once we're on the road. We're not coming back and remember to actually behave for once in your life." Makarov said. "Unlike the stooges on the council, we're under the King's nose and he has the Royal Army under his beck and call." he said.
The Magic Council may be big and has all sorts positions and branches around the world. However, each branch is under the jurisdiction of the kingdom where they are in. Meaning if the council did anything to overstep their bounds then they would have King Toma E. Fiore to worry about. Though it's another story if the King is the one giving the orders and letting the council take them in.
Makarov prayed that his guild members don't do anything stupid to warrant execution and imprisonment.
"We got this master! We have nothing to worry about!" Natsu said as he hopped inside of a wagon.
"I'll keep him in line, don't worry master." Lucy said as she followed Natsu.
"We ALL will, master." Erza said. "As well as Laxus too, of course." she said.
Makarov snickered, "I think the collar around his neck is already doing all of the work." he said as he looked at his grandson's team.
"Fried, did you find a way to loosen the collar?" Laxus whispered over to Fried.
"I'm afraid not Laxus, but worry not. I will find a way to relieve you of your discomfort." Fried whispered back.
Unfortunately, Wendy heard them, "I'm telling!" she said.
"Hey! Damn it! Stupid sensitive hearing!" Laxus cursed as Wendy went to tell Makarov on him.
Lucy was more than likely going to tighten the collar around his neck now. Assuming that Lucy doesn't add more restrictions to contain his movements. Hopefully Lucy is willing to let him move more freely once the Grand Magic Games begin and compete without worry.
About a half hour passed and both teams along with a few others and the master were piled into the wagons. Makarov signaled for the journey to to Crocus to begin.
"Full speed ahead!" Makarov ordered.
"Good luck everyone! Win us first place so Macao can stop whining!" Wakaba shouted.
"I am not whining!" Macao argued.
"Sure you're not." Wakaba said sarcastically. "Besides, we got our heavy hitters back and they're not rusty either." he said.
Macao sighed as he went back inside of the guild. Unknown to anyone, a group of three hooded figures watched as they left.
"Fairy Tail's strongest have left for the games." one of them said.
"Then we're too late. Hopefully we can meet them in Crocus." another said.
"You should understand the real issue at hand Jellal." the third figure said. "You were being a complete idiot!" she yelled before hitting Jellal over the head.
"I can tell you are angry, Ultear." Jellal said as his hood fell.
"Angry doesn't begin to explain how I feel! We could have met them sooner, but you chose to be shy because you were too scared of talking to Erza!" Ultear yelled.
Jellal winced, "I… I'm still not ready to face Erza. After everything I've done, the people I've hurt and manipulated." he began to say as he felt saddened. "Also… a part of this is your fault." he said before finding a pink ring on his wrist.
"Meredy open up." Ultear said as she forced Meredy to create a link with Jellal.
Then she forced Meredy to swallow a very spicy pepper. The pink haired girl let out a scream of immense pain as did Jellal. Ultear then made Meredy cut the connection before giving the girl some water.
"Jellal, I've admitted to my mistakes and that is why we rescued you from the prison to form Crime Sorciere. So how is it my fault that you cannot speak with a girl you like?" Ultear asked like an angry mother.
Jellal winced again, "I don't love her, I can't… I have a fiancee… AH!" He screamed in pain.
This statement earned him another hit on the head.
"You do not have a fiancee." Ultear said.
"With your personality, it would be a miracle for a woman to find interest in you." Meredy said.
Before Jellal could say anything else, Ultear started to drag him across the street.
"Now let's get moving. We don't have time to hear you whine. A catastrophe could occur at any moment and we can't stand around while you talk you're auditioning for a soap opera." Ultear said.
"I'm not emotionally prepared! Give me time!" Jellal pleaded.
"I suppose Ultear and I could do all the talking. I never realize you were so bashful Jellal." Meredy said as Jellal tried coming up with another excuse.
Surpisingly enough, there was a third party watching from the shadows. Watching both Fairy Tail and Crime Sorciere in an attempt to gain information on the behalf of their master.
"It seems that a guardian angel is watching over Fairy Tail. The emperor will need to hear of this." the stranger said. "Assuming there is anything worth mentioning aside from a peeping tom." the figure said before disappearing into the shadows to follow the guild.
Jellal's group really did have something important to tell the guild in regards to the Grand Magic Games. It appears that more is happening in the background than anyone can comprehend. Regardless of what hides in the shadows, being aware and focused is already a good enough advantage in these kinds of situations.
TO BE CONTINUED…