The Legend of Magnolia Hollow

by StellarFairy

A Fairy Tail take on Disney's adaptation of Washington Irving's story, with Natsu taking on the role of the schoolmaster Ichabod Crane. This story was written around Halloween. Hope you all consider it as a treat despite this story being tardy! NOTE: This story will have an alternate ending.

1. Chapter 1

Author's Note: Watching Disney's take on Washington Irving's tale inspired me to write my Fairy Tail take on this short. It took me two days to complete it, hence why it is a belated Halloween story.

Without any further ado, please enjoy The Legend of Magnolia Hollow!

DISCLAIMER: Fairy Tail belongs to Hiro Mashima, and The Legend of Sleepy Hollow belongs to Washington Irving and Disney.

---

Magnolia Hollow was a sleepy village nestled in the bosom of indenting spacious shores of the river. It had simple, cozy houses that the residents would call home; spacious countryside views and dirt roads that would lead into and out of the town, and farms that were owned by Beth Vanderwood and the Connell family.

Beth, Alzack and Bisca were tending to their animals at their respective farms, whereas the Connells' daughter, Asuka, was chasing some chickens nearby her parents. They suddenly paused their work at the sight of a tall, pink-haired male wearing a black coat and a white knitted scarf walking past by them, a book concealing his face. Right next to him was a blue cat with white on the end of his tell and his belly, big eyes and black whiskers and a tiny nose to match. His name was Happy, and Asuka was the only one who greeted him while her parents and Beth were astonished by the sight of the young man.

His name was Natsu Dragneel, known as the "Salamander" due to his fiery personality and his love for fist fights. Despite this, he dove into the world of classic literary tales and academics, hence why he was recently hired to be the new schoolmaster in Magnolia Hollow. The school was located not far from the village itself, just straight down the road.

When the villagers received word from their mayor, Makarov Dreyar, regarding Natsu's arrival, they spread the news to one another like wildfire. Levy McGarden, who also worked at the school, was excited to work with Natsu as his assistant as she had dreams of becoming a schoolmaster herself someday. She had her books on hand, willing to assist him in teaching the young students how to read and write, as well as simple mathematics.

It was a tranquil autumn afternoon in October when Natsu and Happy first stepped into Magnolia Hollow, and the first two people to spot him were Gray Fullbuster and Juvia Lockser. They were hurrying to their home from a day of shopping for groceries when the blue-haired woman suddenly froze and were in states of surprise the moment they crossed paths with Natsu.

"What is it?" Gray asked her.

"Didn't you hear, Gray?" Juvia asked him, tugging onto his navy coat sleeve. "The new schoolmaster is in town!"

"So that's the one called Salamander…," Gray said aloud, his black eyes blinking with curiosity. "He's got quite the fiery personality, as people describe him. Hopefully he won't cause trouble in this town."

"I doubt that. Now, let's head home and put the groceries away. We'll meet the new schoolmaster later."

And without any time to waste, Juvia and Gray resumed their walk home, their bags of food still on hand.

Outside a bar called the Fairy's Tail, a group of young men were hanging out at a table, and they were called the Fairy Tail Gang. These members consisted of: Macao Conbolt and Wakaba Mine, a pair of middle-aged best friends; Gajeel Redfox, a gruff, muscular man with spiky long black hair; Cana Alberona, a young brown-haired woman who loved to guzzle down mugs and barrels of ale; Jet and Droy, a pair of pals who both had crushes on Levy; Panther Lily, a black cat who was considered as Gajeel's best friend; and Elfman Strauss, the middle child and only man of the Strauss siblings. His elder sister, Mirajane, was an employee at the Fairy's Tail, serving mugs of ale to the Fairy Tail Gang. Their younger sister, Lisanna, was at home waiting patiently for her siblings' return.

Just then, the Fairy Tail Gang and Mira were startled by a loud holler that rang throughout the village. They spotted a black horse galloping through the street, and its rider was a muscular blonde with a lightning bolt-shaped scar on the right side of his face. His name was Laxus Dreyar, grandson of Mayor Makarov, and he was a pompous man who considered himself as the best of all the men in the village.

Right behind him were three of his lackeys riding on three separate horses. On a white horse was Freed Justine, his most loyal comrade with jade green locks tied up into a high ponytail. Evergreen, the only female of his group whose light brown hair was worn into a braid, was the one riding a brown horse with white spots. And on a silver horse with a gray mane was Bickslow, a tall man with spiked navy hair who Laxus and the other two considered their funnyman.

According to the villagers, Laxus was a burly, roistering lightning bolt who was always up for a fight, and he would be victorious every time. Most men were intimidated by his physique and his conceited persona, and they would either be knocked out instantly or run away, cowering in fright. As a result, the Fairy Tail gang would laugh cruelly at the would-be opponents as Laxus stood tall and proud, grinning with sheer confidence.

"So, you and the Thunder Legion came back after being away for three days?" Wakaba said to Laxus. "Thank goodness you've all returned unscathed."

"How was your trip?" Macao asked him.

"Not bad, though it could've been boring if it was just merely a horseback ride from Magnolia Hollow to Margaret Village," Laxus answered them. "I challenged Lyon Bastia and his two hooligans, Toby Horhota and Yuka Suzuki, to an arm wrestling match at the Lamia Scale Tavern on the first day, and I crushed all three of them with no problem. Toby was crying his eyes out like a kid that scraped his knee! He was the wimpiest of them all!"

"Sounds like you don't give a crap about his feelings," Gajeel grumbled.

"How did Lyon and Yuka react after losing to you?" Jet questioned.

"Lyon took it like a man, even though he was shocked of his loss to me," Laxus answered him. "And as for Yuka, he was kinda chill and said nothing following his defeat."

"Looks like Lyon and Yuka were manly enough to accept your challenges compared to Toby," Elfman commented, flexing his muscular arms.

However, Laxus wasn't quite finished with his story, as he placed one foot onto the table, startling Panther Lily and added:

"And then, Jura Neekis stepped forward and challenged me to a fight, outside the tavern."

Gasps of astonishment could be heard from the Fairy Tail Gang, as they were familiar with the mighty Jura since he was best known for his remarkable physical power.

"You took on the Jura Neekis?! The strongest of the Lamia Scale Gang?!" Cana exclaimed, her violet eyes widening in shock.

"Yes, and even he was no match for me. Although he did have a strong physique like mine, we each exchanged storms of barraging fists, and I ultimately ended him with an uppercut to his jaw, knocking out a tooth."

The men and Cana were blown away by Laxus' story of his victory over Jura, whereas the Thunder Legion smirked smugly of their leader. They were proud of him for defeating the four toughest men of Margaret Village, and they had been every so loyal to him from the very beginning.

"This is why you do not want to underestimate Laxus Dreyar," Freed reminded them. "The fact that he's our mayor's grandson and he has been training constantly to stay in shape are clear evidence that he will remain undefeated."

"I agree!" Bickslow chimed in with a nod.

Laxus glanced over at Mirajane and called out to her:

"Mirajane, we'd like four mugs of Black Star Ale, on the house!"

"You got it!" Mirajane chirped, as she headed back inside the bar to pour the drinks. It only took her a minute to get the drinks ready, and she emerged right back out with the mugs of Black Star Ale on a silver tray.

"Here you go! Four mugs of Black Star Ale on the house!"

"Thanks, Mirajane!" The Thunder Legion said, taking their respective mugs. Laxus grabbed hold of the last one and held it up high as he shouted with pride:

"A toast, to the one who eliminated Margaret Village's toughest men!"

"That's Laxus, for you!" Freed cheered.

Cheers soon rang from the Fairy Tail gang, as they clinked their mugs and drank away in celebration. Laxus was taking a sip of his Black Star Ale when his gray eyes suddenly widened at the sight of Natsu and Happy strolling down the road. He spat out the ale in shock, his gray eyes blinking twice.

"So that's him…," he said aloud. "The new schoolmaster the whole town was buzzing about."

"Did you say, new schoolmaster?" Evergreen asked, placing her mug on the table.

"Then it has to be HIM!" Bickslow exclaimed.

"The one they call Salamander: Natsu Dragneel," Freed pointed out.

Gajeel's red eyes were glued onto Happy, the little blue cat walking next to Natsu, cheerfully greeting the villagers.

"And he's got a cat! Just like me!" he exclaimed.

Even the Thunder Legion were too astonished about Natsu and Happy to speak further, just as the entire village emerged from their homes and gasped in surprise at the sight of the new schoolmaster they had been talking about.

"Who's that coming down the street?" Krov asked his close friend, Niggy.

"And that blue cat of his, does he have paws or feet?" Niggy asked, only to be jabbed by Krov's elbow.

"Those are paws, imbecile!" Krov retorted.

The moment Natsu and Happy sauntered past by Vijeeter Ecor, who was cleaning a horseshoe from his horse, the young man's jaw dropped and breathed silently:

"Lean and tall, with muscle and bone."

That was the perfect way to describe Natsu, yet he didn't hear a single word from Vijeeter as he was heading toward a wooden ladder leaning against a brick wall. Happy gasped in shock and tugged on the end of his black coat, grabbing Natsu's attention.

"Watch out for that ladder!" Happy exclaimed, pointing to the ladder with his paw.

In the nick of time, Natsu walked around the ladder, thus preventing him from possibly getting seven years of bad luck—which would be considered as a superstition to the village.

A black cat, Nadi, emerged from an open door, only to be immediately shooed away by Happy. Seeing a black cat like Nadi walking past by anyone would be considered as bad luck, but like the ladder, that was also a superstition.

Simon Mikazuchi, his younger sister Kagura and her friend Millianna were simply walking down the road when they suddenly froze and they could hardly take their eyes off of Natsu and Happy.

"He may have the clothes that no scarecrow would own, yet he has a certain air," Simon said of him.

"Debonair and devil-may-care!" Millianna and Kagura added.

"It's the new schoolmaster!" Lisanna exclaimed.

"What's his name?" Kinana asked.

"Natsu," Natsu answered, bowing courteously to the two women. "Natsu Dragneel."

"Natsu!" Lisanna and Kinana exclaimed, overwhelmed with excitement. "What a name!"

As Natsu and Happy passed by Nab Lazaro and Laki Olietta, they could hear Laki whisper to Nab:

"Kind of odd, but nice just the same."

As soon as Natsu finally passed by the Fairy Tail Gang, Laxus and the Thunder Legion, Happy paused and waved a friendly hello to Panther Lily, who was just as astonished to see him as the humans were.

"I'm Happy, and I'm Natsu's best friend!" he chirped jovially. "It's nice to meet you all!"

"He can talk!?" Gajeel exclaimed, his jaw dropping in shock.

"Now I'm not the only talking cat in this town," Panther Lily said with a sigh.

Erza Scarlet, a red-haired woman who was referred to as Titania by the entire town, was waiting for her sword to be sharpened at a blacksmith's shop when her brown eyes lit up the moment she saw Natsu and Happy.

"Why, that's the new pedagogue everyone can't stop talking about," the blacksmith said, having briefly paused his task of sharpening Erza's sword.

"Such a peculiar name…," Erza wondered aloud. "And such a peculiar frame…"

Natsu may be quaint and fiery, but there wouldn't be any complaints as long as he wouldn't pick a fight that would destroy a part of—or all of—the village. He paused to see the town's fine baker Jenny Realight emerge from her bakery and took two loaves of bread from her. He took a bite of one and he could taste the fluffiness the insides of it had. And he absolutely loved the warm aroma the baker's platter of loafs had!

Happy was given the second loaf of bread from Natsu and he immediately ate it, loving the warm aroma and fluffiness just as much as Natsu did.

Although the arrival of the schoolteacher gave rise to surprising emotions, the townsfolk of Magnolia Hollow agreed they had never seen such a fiery person like Natsu Dragneel, as well as his talking blue cat Happy. All they could do at this point was observe them making their way down to the school, where Levy was waiting for him.

---

The schoolroom became Natsu's empire, over which with lordly dignity he held absolute sway. Levy was standing at the front of the room, writing the day's lesson plan on a large chalkboard as Natsu was walking by rows of working pupils, wielding a long brown pointer.

Although he was pleased to see his students scribbling in their notebooks, the most pleasing sight to him was the food inside their lunch baskets. Levy had to remind him that their students' lunches were not for him to eat, as he had to have his own lunch. Thankfully, he had packed a meal for himself inside a basket, and he was eager to indulge in it when lunchtime would come.

Truth to say, Natsu was a conscientious man, taking his job seriously and making sure that he and Levy would get the kids in line. He spotted a pair of troublemaking boys doodling him as a fire-breathing dragon on a small chalkboard and he was about to hit them with his pointer when he heard Levy clearing her throat. She wouldn't tolerate any form of violence, and even using the pointer on them wouldn't do any better, so, he had to do what would be right for the sake of his career.

The moment the boys glanced up at Natsu, the blond lad immediately dove back into his textbook, whereas the chubby brown-haired lad gulped apprehensively and handed the chalkboard containing the drawing of Natsu as the dragon to him.

"My, is that me as a dragon?" Natsu asked him politely.

"Y-Yes, it is, Mr. Dragneel," the young boy answered him.

"Well… that's the way to describe me. I'm the fiery type, alright," Natsu said with a chuckle, to Levy's dismay. She slapped her hand onto her face, shaking her head and groaning lowly.

"Now, why don't you erase that and get back to the lesson?"

Levy's dismay soon shifted to relief, as she breathed a sigh and the student complied, erasing the dragon drawing with an eraser. She was worried that Natsu wouldn't take his job as a schoolmaster seriously, yet he had to do what was right: politely reminding the student to get to work. A warm smile soon formed upon her fair-skinned face as she observed Natsu patting the boy's head in a gentle manner.

This kind of behavior behooved him to keep on his good terms, especially if the pupils' mothers happened to be good cooks. He visualized the young lad's mother cooking up a roasted turkey feast that he would love to gobble up as soon as possible. As for Happy, he would love to eat a big fish that was freshly caught from the vast ocean or the nearby river.

Later that night, Happy was sound asleep in his tiny bed as Natsu was scribbling in a social calendar with a white quill pen. A flickering candle near his bedside was the sole source of light in the room, and that was just what he needed, as he pulled out a turkey leg from his coat pocket and munched onto the meat. That was considered as his late night snack, according to Natsu.

Scribbled inside Natsu's social calendar were as followed for each day:

MONDAY: Young Ladies' Sewing Circle

TUESDAY: Roast Turkey Dinner

WEDNESDAY: Women's Tatting and Chatting Club

THURSDAY: Ladies Auxiliary

FRIDAY: Ladies of Magnolia Hollow Choral Society

SATURDAY: Box Social

SUNDAY: Indulge in Mirajane's Cooking

In a neat cursive handwriting, Natsu scribbled the word "excellent" right underneath the Roast Turkey Dinner—the right word for him to describe that feast.

From the events that he had written on his calendar, it was clear evidence that he was the town's ladies' man, and he can get around like nobody can. He enjoyed being a social butterfly, even though he can also pick fights with men who would dare to challenge him. And each time, he would defeat them with no problem, to the astonishment of the audience who would watch him.

He had his week planned out and he was eager to take it on, regardless of what the upcoming days would bring him asides from his scheduled events. Natsu took one more glance at the sleeping Happy and couldn't help but smile at him, just before he blew out the candle and drifted off to sleep himself, the white curtain billowing in the cool autumn breeze.

---

On a cool Friday, the serenity of the village was disrupted by loud, off-key singing that startled an orange cat, Nichiya, and a white dog, Nikora, from their slumber. The residents were wondering where that ear-splitting singing was coming from, and they could hardly stand it any longer because it was ringing in their ears and it would soon leave them with headaches. Inside a white building that resembled a cottage, Natsu was rehearsing a choral number with Lisanna, Kinana and Risley Law as the singers. In fact, these three ladies were a part of the Magnolia Hollow Choral Society, and that Friday was their practice day.

The moment Natsu removed his finger and sat back down in his seat in front of a grand piano, the ladies began to sing their next line, and this time around, they sounded soft. That was what the villagers would rather hear instead of a strident, ear-splitting chorus that would shatter the glass windows.

Natsu proceeded to sing next, and he sounded just as gentle as the three women did. The way he sounded with his singing melted their hearts, and they soon followed singing the same line as before. Then, it was Natsu's turn again and he continued to woo them with the same, sweet melody he sang as he played some beautiful notes on the piano.

Unbeknownst to Natsu, Laxus had a practical joke planned to ruin the choral practice, with the Thunder Legion standing before him as he could hear Bickslow snickering mischievously. A golden dog was sitting in front of Laxus, ready to carry out whatever he would order it to.

If the Salamander thinks he can win these ladies with his singing, well, wait until the dog joins in, Laxus thought, a devious smirk forming across his face.

The blond brute gestured the dog by forming his lips into what would be like a dog howling, and the dog clearly got the message, nodding to him.

Happy was observing the choral practice by the windowsill when he heard Bickslow's snickering and glanced straight down at the four and the dog. He realized that to his horror, Laxus was planning to use the dog for his prank!

Oh, no! he thought, alarms of panic ringing in his mind. Laxus is going to use that dog to disrupt Natsu's choir practice! I've got to warn him right away before it's too late!

Natsu was in the midst of his sweet singing, the three ladies sighing contently before him and admiring him when Happy tugged onto the end of his coat, disrupting him of his singing.

"Happy! Not now!" Natsu whispered crossly.

He immediately kicked Happy away, and resumed his choral practice. Just before he could reach a beautiful note that would send the three women into heaven, the dog's howl soon overshadowed Natsu's song, to his surprise and Happy's dismay.

Lisanna, Kinana and Risley sighed dreamily as they fainted, mistaking the dog's howl for Natsu's high note. Happy breathed a sigh of relief, though he felt sorry for Natsu, because he was worried that he would be embarrassed by the dog's howl.

Natsu gave himself a test run of his singing, and to his relief, it wasn't him. However, he soon realized that it was Laxus' doing, as he could hear him and the Thunder Legion burst into laughter, having succeeded in their practical joke. Though he had just become the object of ridicule to Laxus and his gang, he simply brushed it aside and headed over to a table where a large salad bowl was sitting. He removed the white handkerchief covering the salad and pulled out a fork, taking bites of the leafy salad.

I knew it was Laxus all along…, Happy thought, shaking his head in dismay.

To Natsu, Laxus and the Thunder Legion were merely small matters and he wouldn't let them bother him. Indeed, the new schoolmaster had a remarkable equanimity which remained undisturbed, until one fateful day…

---

That day would mark the moment when Natsu's path would soon cross with that of a beautiful woman.

A golden carriage was pulled by a majestic white horse as it arrived at Magnolia Hollow, carrying the woman with blonde hair worn into an elegant updo. She was Lucy Heartfilia, daughter and only child of Jude Heartfilia. Jude was sitting beside his daughter, enjoying the simplistic views of Magnolia Hollow as he was smoking from a golden pipe. He had a reputation for being the wealthiest businessman in the country, and even after the untimely death of his wife (and Lucy's mother) Layla, his railroad business continued to thrive.

Lucy was a blooming lass, her hair golden blonde like sunshine, her cheeks rosy pink, and her lips red as a rose. She was dressed in a frilly pink dress, a sentimental garment that was passed onto her by Layla sometime before her passing. To the Heartfilia family, it would be considered as an heirloom, and she would save that dress for a daughter she would someday have, as per the family's tradition.

The moment she stepped out of the carriage, all of the men from the village were instantly swooned by her beauty and charm, and they gathered around her almost immediately. She handed one of the men a rose that she picked out earlier during her trip, and he soon sighed dreamily of her. The other three men she passed by could hardly resist her, and they could even smell rose-scented perfume that she had apparently sprayed onto herself before she left.

Lucy pulled out a frilly pink parasol and opened it up, shielding herself from the sun as she made her way down the dirt road and up a hill where she was waiting for the men to help her unpack her belongings. They were doing their best picking the best spot for her to rest after such a long, tiring trip with her father. The first one was nearby some trees that would be best for a hammock, but Lucy turned it down right away. Then, the second spot was underneath a large oak tree where the men and Lucy instantly rejected. She soon took off, skipping across stones that formed a bridge on a creek. The men followed her, not caring about their clothes getting wet from the creek as they carried her belongings.

Natsu and Happy were having a picnic with Lisanna nearby, and he was about to take a bite of a chicken leg when his onyx eyes soon laid on Lucy. He could feel an arrow of love piercing his heart, and soon, he was immobilized by her beautiful face and rose-scented perfume. Why, she was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen, and he had never fallen in love before!

This woman…, he thought of her, gazing into her chocolate brown eyes. She's so beautiful! I've never seen any woman this gorgeous before! Who is she?

As soon as Lucy came to Natsu and smiled warmly at him, all he could do was sigh deeply and faint, his face landing into the cake that Mirajane had made, to Lisanna's shock.

Happy was munching on fish when he suddenly paused at the sight of Natsu, wondering what had happened to him. He nudged onto his shoulder, and the moment Natsu rose up from the cake, he licked away the pink frosting and sighed deeply once more, red hearts dancing around his head.

He—He's in love! Happy thought, astonished by Natsu's newly awakened infatuation for Lucy. That woman who just arrived must be his first love! But, who is she?

---

Later that afternoon, the students were throwing their textbooks around, laughing mischievously as Levy made numerous attempts to stop them, to no avail. She was becoming frustrated, as because they would normally behave well when Natsu was teaching. However, because he had fallen deeply in love with Lucy, he had neglected his studies for the day and left them all to Levy, much to her chagrin.

A pair of gloves was holding up a book as if their schoolmaster was reading it. But right behind it, Natsu was pulling feathers away from a feather duster, determining whether Lucy would love him or not with each feather he pulled out:

"She loves me… She loves me not… She loves me… She loves me not… She loves me…"

All he could think about was Lucy Heartfilia, the richest prize in the countryside. He recalled his first encounter with her as he thought of her dreamily:

Ahhh… Lucy, my love… Who could resist your grace, your charm? And who could resist your father's wealth?

In addition to the railroad business, Jude had a grand mansion that had a lush garden filled with rose bushes, a beautiful fountain depicting a woman pouring water out of her urn, a pond filled with lily pads, and a grand magnolia tree that was planted in honor of Layla. A white bench sitting beneath the tree was Layla's favorite spot to sit upon before she passed, and ever since, Lucy would go there every single day, to sit upon the same tree her mother did.

Boy, what a setup, Natsu continued thinking. There are acres and acres of the land he has, and that garden of his is what drives people to visit him there! I wish I could see it too… not to mention the green stuff!

The green stuff he was referring to was a vegetable garden that Jude would tend to with help from his servants, and he would use the vegetables for his meals. Natsu could hardly imagine how many of these he could eat, as he visualized himself being served meal after meal by the butlers and chefs who would feed Jude without a doubt.

Natsu could also see Lucy showing her beautiful face from behind her frilly pink parasol, her charming smile on display and her brown eyes fluttering. His heart was soaring into a heaven filled with pink clouds, as he turned across his pedestal with the lovestruck smile stuck on his face.

Ahh, Lucy, my sweet, my treasure. Treasure, ha ha! That mansion's a gold mine! Oh, I'd love to hit the jackpot with your father's wealth!

He could see a rainfall of coins and dollar bills pouring down before them, running around and laughing gleefully with Happy while Lucy was watching him, giggling at him.

Levy groaned at the sight of Natsu still daydreaming, only to be hit in the face with a book that was hurled by a student. She immediately headed over to him to scold him, Natsu completely ignoring the commotion.

Dear Lucy, Jude's only child… Jude!

A vision of Jude soon popped up in Natsu's head, and he could see Jude sitting in a comfy chair, his golden jewels worn on him proudly to show off his excessive wealth.

Well, the old goat can't take it with him, and when he comes out, that's when I come in!

Natsu appeared instantly in Jude's place, sitting upon his chair with the same golden jewels that he would consider as his prizes when he would become Lucy's husband… that is, if he would ever get that chance.

Back to reality: Natsu continued to pluck away feathers from the feather duster, trapped endlessly in his sea of daydreams about the beautiful Lucy.

Sweet Lucy. Poor little rich girl…

The fantasy of Lucy soon appeared before him, worried for him. She would want a man who would protect her at all costs, and Natsu would fit that role right in for his fiery personality and his courage.

Don't worry, Lucy. Natsu will protect you.

He soon closed his eyes, mentally declaring his submission for her as he leaned in towards her, his arms reaching out to her.

Ah, yes. Lucy, you've won me. I surrender!

Natsu gingerly grabbed hold of the vision of Lucy and pulled her close to him, ready to give her a sweet kiss. He leaned in towards her, and the moment his lips were about to touch hers, the vision soon disappeared and he ended up sneezing all of the feathers out of the feather duster!

Levy was soon startled by the sneeze, yet Natsu was still deeply infatuated by Lucy. He would do whatever it takes to win her heart, even if it would mean having to resort to fist fights.

---

Truth to say, every portal to Lucy's heart was jealously guarded by a rustic group of admirers, but Natsu was confident that he would be chosen over these simple bumpkins.

She was shopping in town, with the admirers holding her packages for her. Natsu was hiding behind the wall of a shop as he observed Lucy entering inside, the suitors waiting eagerly for her. Happy, who was hiding alongside Natsu, was curious of the woman and wondered why Natsu had fallen madly in love with her. He was becoming concerned that he was falling behind in his social schedule, and it was urgent that Natsu had to get back into it and fast.

Laxus was riding his black horse into the town, having just got back from a horseback riding session with the Thunder Legion. His horse had managed to scare all of the suitors away, leaving behind Lucy's packages. The redoubtable Laxus was the most formidable obstacle that the schoolmaster failed to reckon with, having heard of Jude's wealth from the villagers.

As soon as Lucy exited the shop, she was shocked to see all of her packages scattered on the ground, and there were no signs of her admirers.

"My goodness! All of my packages!" she exclaimed. "And there's no one left to help m with them! Something, or rather someone, must have scared them away!"

"Forgive me, dear Lucy, for I am the one who frightened these men," Laxus said to her, hopping off of his horse and bowing politely to her. "Please, let me help you with these packages of yours."

A fire of envy soon burned within Natsu, his onyx orbs glaring bitterly at Laxus. Now he was finally starting to notice the one obstacle that would stand in the way between him and the woman of his dreams.

"So he's in love with Lucy too?" he snarled. "He's not the one for her!"

Lucy immediately scoffed at Laxus and turned away, as she loathed men who had a conceited nature and didn't care for others. And Laxus was that man who would be at the top of the list of her rejected suitors. She wanted a gentleman who would be valiant, kindhearted, and hard-working—and Natsu would fit the bill due to his status as Magnolia Hollow's schoolteacher and his personality.

A deviously smug smirk formed on Natsu's face, as he believed he would have the chance to win the woman over. With a fire of confidence burning inside of him, Natsu brushed his black coat to prepare himself. He emerged from hiding and approached Lucy, bowing politely to her as Happy observed the scene with a smile.

"Why, I've seen you before," Lucy said with a sweet smile.

Almost immediately, Natsu's heart fluttered with delight, his onyx eyes lighting up as a pink blush tinted on his face.

Ahh! She noticed me! he thought excitedly.

"I didn't get to hear your name yet, though I was told by my father about you. You're the new schoolmaster of this town, aren't you?"

"Why, yes, I am! I'm Natsu Dragneel, Magnolia Hollow's schoolmaster! It's nice to meet you, Lucy."

"Well, it's a pleasure to meet you, Natsu. Would you be a kind gentleman and help me with my packages?"

"Of course!" Natsu replied with a grin, and he immediately scooped up the packages from the ground right in front of the woman.

Lucy knew right away that Natsu would be the one for her. She loved how kind he was towards her, and him being the new schoolmaster was one thing that she was impressed by. However, she wanted to see more from him if he wanted to truly win her over.

As soon as Lucy tucked her arm underneath Natsu's and the two made their way, Laxus was fuming with bitter jealousy. He wouldn't believe that a mere schoolteacher like Natsu would win the heart of the daughter of the country's wealthiest man. He, Laxus Dreyar, would be the man for Lucy, not him!

Natsu and Lucy stopped right in front of a puddle, which would taint their shoes with mud if they were to step on it. Natsu carefully crossed over the puddle and placed the packages down as he removed his black coat and draped it over the puddle.

"You're such a gentleman, Natsu," Lucy complimented.

Happy trotted over to the pair and was immediately moved by Natsu's romantic gesture. To him, it was like a scene written out of a fairy tale and he believed that Natsu and Lucy would live happily ever after.

Laxus climbed back onto his horse, burning with fury to steal the woman away from Natsu. With a glare of covetousness in his eyes, the blonde brute whipped the reins of the horse and it immediately took off, galloping over the puddle that Lucy was about to safely make her way to Natsu. The muddy water had splashed onto Natsu, ruining his sophisticated clothes as Happy watched him in a state of astonishment. He immediately headed over to Natsu and was taken aback by his filthy condition.

"Natsu! Are you okay?" he asked his best friend.

"Don't worry about me, buddy," Natsu said, as he stood up from the puddle. "It's just muddy water."

Unfortunately for Natsu, Laxus had managed to take Lucy onto his horse and hoisted her packages—a ghastly sight he didn't want to see!

"HEY!" Natsu roared, fuming with a fiery jealousy.

Laxus turned to him and gave him a conceited smirk, chuckling deeply at his rival.

Lucy turned to Natsu and was immediately appalled by the mud on his clothes. She had deep sympathy toward him, and in order to lift his spirits up, she pulled out a pale blue handkerchief and tossed it to him. Natsu caught it in his hands straight away, her scent providing him with a calming relief that washed over his flaming envy.

"Lucy…," he sighed dreamily, inhaling the rose-scented perfume.

"Natsu!" Happy exclaimed, tugging onto his white shirt. "Laxus is getting away with Lucy!"

As Laxus' horse took off and Lucy waved goodbye, Natsu was still immobilized by her scent from the handkerchief, cherubs in the forms of Natsu fluttering around his head like stars.

Happy knew that he had to act fast, so he took a big, deep breath and shouted directly in Natsu's face:

"FOLLOW THAT HORSE!"

Natsu immediately jolted, snapping out of his daydream as he could feel a burning desire for Lucy blaze inside of him. His determination to win her over accelerated into overdrive as he took off with such an immense speed, shouting into the air:

"I'M COMING, LUCY!"

Happy took off after him, frantically panting as he called out to him:

"Hey! Wait up!"

Down the dirt path, Sting Eucliffe and his lady Yukino Aguria were sauntering together, enjoying the beautiful autumn foliage the countryside had when Natsu sped past by them, alarming them.

"Natsu!" Happy shouted as he passed by the shocked couple, dashing as fast as he could.

"A talking cat?" Yukino asked.

"Never mind them," Sting said to her. "Now come on. Let's take a look at the autumn foliage again."

The horse was galloping closer and closer to the Heartfilia mansion sitting on the hills that gave the family a splendid view of Magnolia Hollow. Just as they were about to arrive, however, Natsu finally caught up to them with Happy not too far behind.

The two were bewildered by how Natsu was able to get to them without getting lost. That immense speed he had blew Lucy away—that was one thing that she would find surprising about the Salamander.

"How did you get here?!" Laxus snapped.

"I followed your horse," Natsu answered, smiling slyly at his rival.

Happy climbed over a small stone wall that surrounded a small pink cottage, and he breathed a sigh of relief the moment he saw Natsu standing in front of the black horse.

He made it to Lucy's home THAT FAST?! With such an immense speed?! Laxus thought, his right eye twitching.

"Well, that was fast!" Lucy exclaimed, her brown eyes blinking in astonishment. "I have never seen a man with such speed!"

She handed the packages to Laxus, as she ordered him:

"Here. Hold these for me, please."

Almost immediately, Natsu was waiting for her by the horse as he gently took her hand and she dismounted the horse, oblivious of Happy cheering Natsu on from the stone wall. As the two were strolling toward a wooden gate, Laxus was snarling infuriately at his rival, firmly grasping the packages that were in his arms.

Natsu opened the gate and they walked through it, and Lucy's home was waiting for them, sitting right in front of them. Laxus darted for the gate, with the packages still on hand, only to trip over the gate that had just closed, startling Natsu and Lucy.

The packages were scattered all over the ground, as Laxus groaned in dismay from his embarrassing fall. Happy was snickering in reaction to the fall, whereas Natsu secretly gave his foe a devious grin.

"Such a clumsy oaf he is," Lucy commented, shaking her head.

OAF?! Laxus thought, glaring crossly as red veins of anger popped up on his head.

He immediately rose up from the ground, ready to wrap his arms around the schoolmaster's neck when he was given the packages back by Natsu, with Happy bursting into laughter.

Lucy opened the white door that would lead into her home, and Natsu tucked his arm underneath hers as they made their way inside.

"Thank you for escorting me to my home, Natsu," she said with a sweet smile.

"Sure," Natsu replied, chuckling with deep love as he could hardly take his eyes off of her. Her grace and charm were what made her irresistible to him, and to him, the sight of her was heaven-sent. He would never let go of her, no matter how hard he would try to stop thinking about this beautiful woman.

Laxus, having had enough of being humiliated, tossed the packages aside and began charging at them, only to slip on potatoes that had rolled out of a white grocery bag. Happy's laughter grew louder as he collapsed onto the stone wall, thinking of Laxus' latest stumble as a big circus act.

Natsu and Lucy were startled by a loud thud that came from Laxus, who was lying on his back as a result of his fall, buried in a pile of flour that had bursted out of a bag. Natsu didn't seem to care, as he shrugged his shoulders and he made his way over to pick up the packages. He was scooping them up in his arms when he inadvertently pinched a nose, which turned out to be Laxus. The blonde brute was glaring crossly at the Salamander, his eyes burning with rage. Natsu immediately covered them with the flour, causing Happy to snicker once more.

The flour bursted out like a volcano as Laxus emerged, still fuming with jealousy.

Damn that Salamander! he thought angrily. He's stolen MY woman!

Natsu pecked a gentle kiss onto Lucy's right hand, making her blush a rosy pink. She waved to him as she made her way inside, and Natsu gave her one more bow before heading out. However, Laxus was standing in his way, ready to beat him to a pulp as he swung a fist at him. Natsu ducked underneath and he reversed course, making his way back into the house. Laxus immediately lunged at him, only to crash into the door.

Happy burst out into laughter once more, falling over the wall and landing in the grass as he banged his paws against it. Laxus' ears pricked up the sound of the laughter right away and with the anger of a bull, he charged at Happy and kicked him away, sending the poor kitty flying.

Lucy was about to head upstairs when she spotted Natsu standing before her, jumping back in surprise.

"Natsu!" she exclaimed. "You're back already?"

"That oaf wanted to beat me up, so I made it back to you," Natsu replied, earning a chuckle from Lucy.

"There's one more thing I have for you, dear Lucy."

Lucy's eyes lit up with delight, eager to find out what Natsu had for her as she witnessed him pull from behind him a bouquet of hand-picked flowers, wrapped in white paper and tied with a pink ribbon.

"Here. I picked these for you from the town's flower shop," he said, presenting them to her.

"Oh, my! These flowers are so beautiful! Thank you, Natsu," Lucy said as she took the flowers from him.

The sight of her inhaling the wonderful aroma from the flowers made Natsu sigh happily, and he could hear the peaceful sound of a harp playing in his mind as little cherubs of Natsu fluttered around him. This was what he had envisioned: him, all alone with the woman of his dreams. He had also visioned him spending the rest of his life with Lucy, indulging in the riches her father had, as well as a family of his own: three kids running around him and Lucy, giggling happily.

In the midst of admiring the flowers, Lucy suddenly glanced up to see Laxus peering through the window above the door like a dog waiting for its master's return. She shook her head, disregarding him and thinking of him as a nuisance.

The beautiful blonde woman leaned in toward Natsu, pulling out a yellow flower from her bouquet and placing it into the front chest pocket of Natsu's coat. Natsu let out another happy sigh, grateful to accept this token from the dear lady.

Laxus was struggling to get the door open when he heard the sound of lips smacking. That was one sound he did not want to hear, and the vision of Lucy kissing Natsu directly on the lips made him gag in disgust.

Could that be Lucy giving that Salamander her first kiss?! he thought irately. I should be the one receiving that kiss from her!

From inside the house, Natsu was swaying to and fro as he sighed happily. A kiss mark was planted on his lips, and it was imprinted by Lucy's ruby red lipstick as proof. Lucy proceeded to give him more kisses, and the more Laxus could hear those lips smacking, the more dismayed and disgusted he became.

He took a peek through the keyhole to see Natsu bowing one last time to Lucy (for real, this time) as he headed for the door. Laxus moved an inch away from the door, leaning against the wall as he was ready to strangle the Salamander the moment the door would open. However, the door swung right into Laxus once again, and he groaned in pain as Natsu inhaled the sweet scent of the flower. It would serve as a memento of his dearly beloved Lucy, and to him, she was just as precious as the flower.

The moment he pulled the door back, Natsu spotted Laxus sliding down the wall and he chuckled as Laxus shook his head. The blonde brute immediately lunged at him, only to crash into the door once again as Natsu closed it. As Laxus struggled to open up, the door swung open again, slamming directly into him one more time as Natsu headed out, diving into his social calendar. The blonde brute was growing tired of getting himself into such embarrassing situations merely to woo Lucy Heartfilia, and his frustration toward Natsu was boiling over like hot water in a tea kettle.

Natsu suddenly felt himself being yanked by his scarf, and he was instantly dragged back by Laxus. The brute swatted Natsu's social calendar out of his hands, and he pressed his nose against his foe's, growling angrily like a dog would trying to protect its master. Natsu didn't seem to be intimidated by the vicious glare Laxus was giving him, as he remained composed as usual.

"Listen, Salamander," the blonde brute snarled deeply at his rival. "You think you can win over MY WOMAN that easily?! Well, I don't think so! I'm gonna wipe you off the map so I can make Lucy my wife and indulge in her father's riches! You belong in that pathetic schoolhouse with that foolish talking cat of yours!"

"Heh. You don't scare me one bit, Laxus," Natsu replied, smirking at him. "Well, I saw Lucy first and she prefers a gentleman like me over a pompous oaf like you."

A gasp of rage escaped Laxus' lips, and a red vein popped up once more as he raised up a fist, ready to strike his rival in the face.

"WHY, I OUGHTA—!" he snapped.

Just then, the men heard Lucy's beautiful voice calling out to Natsu from above:

"Yoo-hoo! Natsu!"

She was waving to him with a pink handkerchief as she was gazing down at them with a benevolent gaze, her bedroom window open as pink curtains billowed in the gentle autumn breeze.

"Lucy!" Natsu called out to her, waving back at her.

Realizing that their prize was standing before them, Laxus quickly lowered his fist and instead placed an arm around Natsu, pretending that he was a friend.

I can't beat this guy to a pulp in front of her! Laxus thought, in the midst of grinning apprehensively at Lucy.

As soon as Lucy closed the curtains and the window, Laxus was ready to make his move. He swung his fist at Natsu—only to end up hitting a tree instead!

Natsu was walking away, with his social calendar back in his hand as he whistled a merry tune. The moment he opened up the gate, Laxus pulled out his fist and charged at Natsu once more. However, Natsu closed it just before Laxus could reach him, and he resorted to jumping over the gate to pounce on him. Natsu ducked underneath him in the nick of time as he picked up a horseshoe from the ground, and he jumped back in reaction to hearing a loud crash coming from a well nearby the gate.

Natsu continued whistling as he skipped merrily past the well, giving the horseshoe one kiss as he ignored the sound of splashing water coming from the well. Laxus' hands emerged from the well, grasping onto the stone edges as he carefully pulled himself out, dripping wet.

No doubt about it—this was Natsu's lucky day. Not only did he manage to woo the woman he had deep feelings for, but he also found a horseshoe, which was considered to many people as a lucky charm!

He hurled the horseshoe aside and it made a direct hit on Laxus' head, sending him into a dizzy state and he could see two Natsus skipping away. Natsu was a rival to be reckoned with—a schoolmaster with hidden talents.

Along the way, he found Happy sitting on the ground, having been waiting for him since he was sent flying by Laxus. The two pals reunited and they resumed their walking, ready to head home for the day.

"Happy! Wait until you hear what happened to me today when I was with Lucy!" he exclaimed, sounding thrilled. "I feel totally lucky!"

"What? What happened?" the blue cat asked him, eager to hear.

Without any hesitation, Natsu spoke up to him, jumping up and down with merriment:

"Lucy kissed me for the first time!"

"She did?!" Happy gasped, his eyes lighting up with delight.

"Yes! And I'm one lucky guy!"

"Hooray for Natsu! I knew she'd choose you over that oversized jerk Laxus!"

"Hehe, yeah," Natsu chuckled, giving Happy gentle pats on his head. "Now, let's go home, buddy."

"Aye, sir!" Happy chirped.

As the two best buds finally disappeared, Laxus was infuriated once more. He twisted the horseshoe out of shape in a slow rage, and he was becoming determined more than ever to claim the coveted prize that was Lucy.

---

Halloween season was upon Magnolia Hollow, and with that came Jude's annual Halloween frolic. It was the Heartfilia family's tradition that he had done every year, even after Layla's death. Normally, Jude would scribble the invitations that he and Lucy would send out to the residents of Magnolia Hollow, but this year, it was his daughter's turn to write the invitations. At her desk, Lucy was scribbling in a neat, cursive handwriting an invitation for Natsu, with her precious white puppy Plue watching her from her bedside. She wanted to make it special for him, so she wrote down a special message for him at the very bottom of the invitation.

The day Natsu received the invitation to the frolic, he was over the moon. This would be his first time attending such a joyous formal occasion from a wealthy family, and this would be his chance to win Lucy over for sure.

The invitation was placed on a dresser in Natsu's home, and it was written:

To Mr. Natsu Dragneel,

You and your dear friend Happy are cordially invited to attend the annual Halloween Frolic at the Heartfilia Mansion tonight.

RSVP,

Jude Heartfilia

P.S. Please come, Natsu. I wish to see you. - Lucy

"Lucy…," Natsu sighed dreamily of her, as his eyes fixated on the invitation.

Happy was humming a tune as he adjusted a frilly white cravat around his neck, carefully tucking it in underneath a crisp white shirt. He was also wearing a navy coat, black pants and brown dress shoes with a silver buckle.

"Shouldn't you be getting ready, Natsu?" the cat asked his best friend.

"Of course I am!" Natsu answered optimistically. "I have the chance to get Lucy as my girl, and there's no way Laxus will win!"

"No doubt about that!"

While Happy moved to combing his head neatly (he didn't have actual hair, but his blue fur would do), Natsu changed out of his clothes and into a deep maroon jacket with a white shirt and matching cravat; a pair of black slacks, and brown dress shoes with a silver buckle. He also wrapped his scarf around his neck in case it would be chilly out at night, as it was his prized possession. It was a special gift from his parents, who lived far away from the village, and they were proud of their son the day he got the job as Magnolia Hollow's schoolmaster.

Natsu stepped toward a silver mirror and proceeded to comb his pink hair neatly with a black comb, looking slick as ever. He gazed at his reflection and smiled to himself, confident that he will be the perfect gentleman for Lucy Heartfilia.

Natsu, you sly dog, you! he thought to himself. What is this strange power you have over women? Why, your composed yet fiery side, of course!

He sprayed some cologne onto himself, giving himself a strong aroma that would deem as masculine. Now the Salamander and his cat were all set to go, ready to attend Jude's frolic.

Outside the home, Natsu mounted himself onto a mahogany horse he named Igneel. He considered Igneel as his trusty steed, for his majestic galloping and his reliability. The horse was also a brave one, and he had no fear of anyone nor anything that would stand in his way—not even an aggressive bull.

"Alright, Igneel," Natsu said to his steed, once Happy settled in his lap. "It's off to the Heartfilia Mansion we go!"

"Halloween Frolic, here we come!" Happy cheered.

The moment Natsu whipped the reins, Igneel started galloping, and the two could feel the wind blowing through them as the majestic horse frolicked down the dirt road into the sunset.

---

Under a beautiful full moon, the Heartfilia Mansion sat atop a hill that had a majestic view of Magnolia Hollow. The many guests attending the frolic were amazed by Jude's garden, the exquisite cuisine whipped up by Jude's many chefs, and the posh maids and butlers providing them with the best hospitality possible. No wonder why Jude's mansion had rivaled out any other wealthy homes in the entire country.

Many of Magnolia Hollow's residents were among the guests attending, though they were permitted to bring guests that either resided in town or were from other towns such as Margaret Village. One example was Meredy, a member of the town's council who chose to bring Lyon as her guest. She was merrily dancing with Lyon, gazing into his eyes with a wide smile.

Jellal Fernandes, the head of the council, had deep feelings for Erza because he admired her for her valiance and how strong she was taking on anyone who would dare to challenge her to a fight. Those were the exact reasons why he chose to bring her as his guest, albeit Erza had yet to return her feelings to him. Then again, they were happy to be together as they were seen dancing gracefully, Jellal gently spinning her around.

Gray and Juvia, dressed in matching shades of blue, were also out on the floor; however, instead of swinging, Juvia was simply hugging Gray tightly, to his embarrassment.

"Juvia!" Gray growled at her. "We're supposed to be dancing, not clinging!"

Levy was with her friends Jet and Droy, having some apple cider when Gajeel came up to her, offering her to dance with him. Almost immediately, Levy accepted, to the dismayed Jet and Droy as she took his hand and they headed out onto the floor to dance.

As for Natsu, he put his pride into his dancing as he twirled Lucy around, being careful not to step onto her dainty feet by accident. Lucy was dressed in an elegant lavender gown with puffy sleeves, and her blonde locks were worn into a braided updo that was beautifully done by her maid, Virgo.

Happy didn't have a partner, so he sat out on the sidelines and clapped with glee as he enjoyed the sights of the guests dancing the night away—including his best friend.

The schoolmaster had once again outmatched Laxus, who was sitting on the sidelines, eyeing grumpily at his rival and the lady he wanted to dance with. He was dressed in a purple waistcoat with a white shirt, a purple necktie, black slacks and black dress shoes that were neatly polished. His blonde hair was slicked back, leaving only his bangs.

Jude was seated on his plush red velvet throne, thrilled to see the guests' graceful dancing with one of the servants, Zoldeo, standing beside him.

As soon as Natsu and Lucy swirled toward them, Natsu pulled out a match from his pocket and lit up Jude's gold pipe. Please by the favor Natsu had just done, Jude puffed away with a smile, and Natsu grinned in return before he and Lucy twirled away from them and toward a dessert table. As he bowed to Lucy, he secretly swiped a slice of chocolate cake and ate it in one bite, savoring the sweet chocolate flavor.

Natsu took Lucy's hand once more and he spun her around, hearing a cheerful giggle from her. In return, Lucy spun him around, causing him to laugh with delight.

Natsu's enjoying this moment with his lady, Happy thought, smiling excitedly at them.

The moment Natsu and Lucy bowed once more, Natsu's foot nearly touched Laxus, causing the blonde brute to back away and frown with a grumpy pout.

"That Salamander, stealing my woman," he muttered to himself.

"Laxus!" Freed's voice called out to him, making him glance at the Thunder Legion dressed in their formal best.

Evergreen's light brown locks were worn into a high bun, and she was dressed in a green gown adorned with purple bows and white frills. Bickslow was looking like a fine gentleman, dressed in a navy waistcoat with a white shirt, gray slacks and black dress shoes; and Freed was wearing a maroon waistcoat with a white frilly shirt, a red necktie, black slacks and a pair of umber brown riding boots. His long green locks were tied into a low ponytail, adorned by a red ribbon.

"Why aren't you out dancing?" Evergreen asked him.

"I don't have a partner," Laxus grumbled. "That Salamander stole my girl!"

"Why don't you try dancing with a different partner, like Cana or Mirajane?" Bickslow suggested.

The first of the two women Laxus eyed on was Cana, who was guzzling down a barrel of Black Star Ale, with the Fairy Tail Gang cheering her on.

"Nah, she's too drunk," he said, shaking his head.

As for Mirajane, she was wearing a gorgeous pink gown as she was adjusting Elfman's green bow to make sure it would stay snug onto his low white ponytail. Lisanna was with her siblings, dressed in a periwinkle gown.

"She would be a maybe," Laxus said of Mirajane. "I like that she's the barmaid of the Fairy's Tail tavern. And she's attractive, though Lucy outranks her."

"Okay, then… Ever and I will dance with Lissy and Elfman," Bickslow said, as he and Evergreen took off to find Elfman and Lisanna.

Freed was the only one standing, yet he had other plans to enjoy the frolic.

"I, too, will find a partner to dance with. Good luck finding your perfect lady, Laxus."

As soon as he left, Laxus let out a low sigh and shook his head. Nothing was going his way, and he had to do something about it to ensure he would get his lady.

Just then, Laxus glanced over at Risley, who was sitting by herself on the sidelines, saddened that she didn't find a partner to dance with. The moment she gazed at him with blinking eyes and a smile, Laxus immediately shuddered. He didn't like women who weren't attractive in his eyes; he wanted a slender woman with lovely features, and Lucy was one of them!

He soon came to realization that there was now a way for him to steal Lucy from Natsu, as he eyed on Natsu taking Lucy's hand and stepping down the floor. In his mind, he replaced Lucy with Risley, and he knew straight away that this would be perfect.

"Hey, Risley Law," Laxus said to Risley, lifting her up from her sadness. "Would you be honored to have this dance with me?"

The sight of Laxus bowing politely to her made Risley smile wide, and she immediately wrapped her arms around him, spinning him in circles with jovial giggles.

She's holding me too tight and spinning me too fast! Laxus thought, his vision spinning in circles. I-I'm starting to get dizzy!

In spite of Risley's rather hyperactive dancing, Laxus spotted Natsu and he was ready to carry out his plan.

There he is! he thought, smirking deviously.

Natsu kicked his legs from side to side carefully before giving Lucy one more twirl and they promenaded down the floor, unaware that Laxus was inching closer to them with the clingy Risley.

The moment Natsu released Lucy's hands and spun around, Risley immediately pounced onto him and spun him around, giving Laxus the chance to grab hold of Lucy's hands. Natsu was becoming dizzy from Risley's speedy spins, yet he eyed Laxus with his girl and a fire of anger burned within him.

Nobody steals MY GIRL and gets away with it! he fumed in his head.

Lucy glanced up at Laxus and a gasp of shock escaped her lips, trying unsuccessfully to get herself loose from the blonde brute's strong grasp. Laxus twirled her around, before lowering her down toward the floor and pulling her back up to him.

Natsu immediately emerged from underneath and released Risley, reuniting with his woman as Risley excitedly clung onto Laxus like a monkey.

"Damn you…," Laxus snarled.

Now he was in for another grueling round of being spun by Risley, who twirled him around like a carousel as Lucy waved goodbye to him, with Natsu grinning deviously.

Happy hopped out of his seat, clapping and cheering for his best buddy. Freed, on the other hand, was appalled at the sight of Laxus being spun around and hugged tightly by Risley.

Soon, a war over one woman would ignite between these two men, and the dance floor would become their battlefield. As the music sped up, sparks flew in the rivals' bitter glares and they growled angrily at one another. Freed and Happy were the warring men's strongest supporters, and they would shout conflicting cheers for them as Natsu and Lucy continued to dance gracefully. Laxus, however, was struggling to release Risley from his body. He was scanning the crowd of dancers for his rival, until he was able to spot him via the pink hair.

"Gotcha," he said, smiling confidently.

Laxus yanked Risley by her arm and hurried over to Natsu and Lucy, pursuing them from right behind as both couples were circling around two wooden support beams. However, he was still unable to catch up to them due to the clingy Risley, and her giggling was starting to get on his nerves.

He yanked her by the arm once again and placed her on the bench, only to be hugged by her once more.

"Laxus! You can get rid of that clingy girl and get to Lady Lucy! I'm sure of it!" Freed called out to him.

Just then, Laxus spotted a door that would lead to a closet, and he swiftly yanked Risley off of him and spun her right inside, closing the door and blocking it with a chair. He breathed a sigh of relief, having finally been alleviated of the nightmarish headache that is Risley Law.

"Yes!" Freed cheered.

As Natsu dosie-doed Lucy, Laxus took a peek of them from behind a support beam, eyeing on the woman like a tiger would to its prey.

I've finally got you, Lucy…, he thought of her. I just have to get that Salamander out of the way and land you in my arms once and for all!

Natsu released Lucy's hands and gave her a little wave as he stepped back, unaware that a cellar door was directly beneath him. Laxus spotted the cellar door right away and a new idea soon popped up in his head: he would open the door and Natsu would fall right inside!

Once Natsu stepped off, Laxus opened the cellar door and hid behind the support beam, ready to see his scheme in action.

Have a nice fall, Salamander, he thought with a devious chuckle.

Happy gasped in shock at the sight of Natsu just inches away from the open door, yet to his relief, Natsu stepped back toward Lucy. At the same time, Risley opened the front door, to Laxus' horror. She must had somehow found a shortcut that would lead her to the front door!

"Yoo-hoo!" she called out to him.

"You've gotta be kidding me!" Laxus exclaimed, his body drenched in anxious sweats.

He backed away from the ever-so-lovey-dovey Risley, only to fall through the cellar door, causing Freed to gasp in horror.

"Oh, no! Laxus!" he cried, as Happy burst into laughter and rolled over onto the floor, banging his paws against it.

Freed's face turned bright red with fury, steam rising out of his head as he growled irately at Happy. He slammed his foot onto the blue cat, causing him to cry out in pain screaming into his face:

"WILL YOU SHUT UP, VILE FELINE?!"

Risley had arrived too late, as Laxus had disappeared into the cellar, and now she was wondering where he could have gone, having a baffled expression on her face as Natsu and Lucy were dancing on top of the cellar door.

The musicians sped up their pace, their song now becoming an upbeat jamboree as Natsu spun around once more, ready to perform a dance of his own. He started stomping his feet rapidly, bewildering the guests with his swift moves.

"Man… what's with Natsu?" Gray wondered aloud. "It's like he's some sort of dancing machine!"

"He doesn't have two left feet at all!" Juvia exclaimed.

"Astounding…," Erza breathed, her brown eyes widening in bewilderment.

"What is his secret behind his impressive dances?" Jellal wondered aloud. "Perhaps he had spent hours practicing?"

As Natsu continued stomping his feet at a rapid pace and the music kept playing, Laxus slammed the door to the cellar outside the mansion, removing a string of sausage from his neck and shaking off a pail of water from his left foot. He immediately took a peek through a window and frowned as Natsu was doing cartwheels. The guests gasped in amazement as he was now rolling onto a pumpkin whilst twirling Lucy around.

"That Salamander!" the blonde brute snarled through his teeth.

"Whoa! Natsu!" Levy exclaimed.

"He's got some sort of magic dancing shoes!" Gajeel assumed.

The music came to an end and an applause broke out from the guests as Natsu got off of the pumpkin and took one final bow. He gently held Lucy's left hand and pecked some gentle kisses onto it, making her blush the same rosy pink as before. Happy was hooping and hollering for Natsu, whereas Freed could feel a dizzy spell being cast over him and he fainted onto the floor.

Evergreen and Bickslow had just finished dancing with Elfman and Lisanna when they heard a thud coming from the bench and hurried over to them straight away. They gasped at the sight of Freed's eyes spinning, meaning that he was dizzy and overwhelmed by Natsu's immaculate dance moves—and Laxus' defeat.

"Oi! Freed!" Bickslow called, as he held him in his arms and slowly shook him. "Are you okay?"

"He's passed out!" Evergreen exclaimed.

It was no concern to Happy as he was proud of Natsu for once again winning over Laxus, his arms folded across his chest. Elfman and Lisanna gathered around Bickslow and Evergreen, worried about Freed as they hurried to find Jude and notify him of the green-haired gentleman's condition.

"Way to go, Natsu!" he said of his best friend.

---

It was almost midnight when the cold wind started to pick up, howling as the trees swayed to and fro. The moon was full, yet it had been concealed by some clouds rolling by in the night sky. When that late hour would come, Jude would always call upon his guests to tell him ghastly tales of Halloween. It was a part of the Halloween tradition, as these tales of ghosts, goblins, and other spooks had been significant to them since the beginning of time.

Natsu was wolfing down on a late night feast, ranging from turkey legs to corn on the cob to sliced ham. All of the dancing had made him hungry, and even though he was proud to have won Lucy's affections once again, his main priority at the moment was the delicious food made by Jude's chefs.

"We're about to hear spooky stories, and all you think about is food!" Happy sighed, as he took a bite of cooked salmon.

"Not true!" Natsu retorted, his voice muffled by the food. He took a big swallow, and then added: "All I've been thinking about is Lucy!"

Happy simply rolled his eyes with a low sigh, before getting back to eating the salmon. Natsu reached for a slice of vanilla cake when his elbow inadvertently knocked over a salt shaker, spilling some salt onto the table.

"Uh-oh," he whispered, his onyx eyes widening in alarm.

Spilling the salt was considered as bad luck for Natsu, and one would toss the salt over the shoulder to erase the impending bad luck. But then again, it was merely a superstition to many people.

As Natsu tossed the salt over his left shoulder, Laxus was watching him from behind a pillar, taking a bite of a sandwich.

"So it's that time again for the Halloween tales, eh?" he wondered aloud. "Well, from what I've heard, there's no more firm and potent believer in these spooks and goblins than the Salamander… Natsu Dragneel."

A devilish smile plastered across his lips, as he had a tale that would truly leave the chills up the spines of the guests—and one that would terrify Natsu the most.

The guests crowded around Laxus and a newly recuperated Freed, who had a bandage wrapped around his forehead. They were eager to hear what tale the men were about to tell, yet the chilling mood of the howling wind and the full moon was the perfect setting for such terrifying stories.

"Just gather around, and we'll elucidate on what goes on outside when it gets late," Laxus started.

Natsu was seated next to Lucy, who was sipping a cup of earl grey tea as the pinkette was munching on a turkey leg. Happy was still seated on the table in front of them, having just moved on to a filet of trout after having enjoyed the salmon.

"Long about midnight, the ghosts and banshees… they get together for their nightly jamboree."

Laxus held up two of his fingers to mimic the horns of a demon and his gray eyes bulged out as he eerily described what the ghostly creatures would look like:

"There's things with horns and saucer eyes, some with fangs about this size."

Happy gulped apprehensively, whereas Natsu wiped his mouth clean with a napkin, curious to learn of the descriptive details regarding the ghosts and spooks.

"Some are fat," Kinana joined in.

"Some are thin," Risley added.

"And some don't even wear their skin!" Bickslow claimed.

Laxus stepped toward Natsu and placed an arm around him as he said to him:

"Oh, I'm telling you, brother, it's a frightful sight to see what goes on Halloween night."

The window suddenly burst open, the wind howling throughout as it blew out the candles and the white curtains billowed, making them ghostly enough to scare Happy as the room was now nearly dark. The only source of light remaining was the grand fireplace, flames roasting on some wooden logs. Even with the eerie setting, Natsu wasn't bothered by them, as he remained composed and placed his now completely empty place on the table.

Freed then appeared to the left side of Natsu, leaning in with an eerie stare as he spoke to him in a dark tone of voice:

"Oh, when the spooks have a midnight jamboree, they break it up with fiendish glee. Ghosts are bad, but the one that's cursed… is the Headless Horseman. He's the worst."

Happy's teeth began chattering, a chill climbing up his spine as he stammered in trepidation:

"H-H-H-H-H-Headless Horseman?!"

"That's right!" Freed and Laxus both said in unison. "He's a fright on Halloween night!"

"Tch," Natsu scoffed, shaking his head. "I ain't scared of this headless horseman."

But Laxus wasn't finished just yet, as he hopped onto a chair with a white sheet covering his face. He began hopping across the room as if he were riding on a horse as Freed filled in for him:

"When he goes a-joggin' across the land, holding his noggin in his hand, demons take one look and groan, and hit the road for parts unknown."

Lucy was simply giggling in reaction to Laxus' galloping, believing that it was part of the story as Natsu rolled his eyes. He was suddenly startled by Bickslow and Evergreen, who warned him darkly:

"Beware! Take care, for he rides alone!"

Natsu simply shooed them away by swinging his arms, eager to listen to the whole story. Laxus parked right in front of the schoolmaster and removed the sheet from his head as he leaned in toward a trembling Happy, who was covering his eyes with his paws.

"And there's no spook like the spook who's spurned," he described of the terrifying man. "They don't like him, and he's really burned."

"He swears to the longest day he's dead," Freed joined in, aiming a finger at Natsu. "He'll show them that he can get a head."

"And that head of his won't be mine," Natsu said, smirking at them.

"We'll see about that, Salamander!" Bickslow taunted, only to be smacked in the face by Natsu.

"I don't want the headless horseman to take my head! It won't fit him!" Happy whimpered, still too terrified to uncover his eyes.

Laxus held up a jack-o-lantern with a candle lit inside, and he smashed it into the fireplace, causing a shower of embers to scatter on the wooden floor as he said:

"They say he's tired of his flamin' top, he's got a yen to make a swap."

Laxus then pulled out a large knife, making Happy gulp apprehensively as he finished:

"So he rides one night each year to find a head in the Hollow here."

"And I told you, that head won't be mine," Natsu retorted.

Evergreen suddenly gathered around Natsu, startling him as she warned him and Happy:

"Now he likes them little, he likes them big."

Then Bickslow came next, further petrifying Happy as he joined in:

"Parted in the middle, or a wig."

Then both of them unified, following up with:

"Black or white, or even red."

"Hopefully it's not my scarlet locks he'll be after," Erza assumed, sounding concerned.

"The Headless Horseman needs a head," Laxus reminded Natsu, aiming the knife at his head.

The Salamander was still in disbelief as he shook his head rapidly, remaining as resilient as possible. To him, it was just some urban legend that had creatures that only existed in books.

"With a hip-hip and a clippity-clop, he's out looking for a top to chop," Freed described the sound of a galloping horse—not referring to Natsu's trusty steed Igneel. "You can't reason with a headless man!"

And with that, Laxus sliced a pumpkin head off of a scarecrow and it rolled across the floor, heading toward Natsu's feet. He swiftly moved his feet up in the nick of time, whereas Lucy simply giggled at the pumpkin rolling away from her.

"You find it funny when you lose your head?" Natsu questioned, raising an eyebrow.

"I don't think so," Lucy replied to him. "Besides, it's just a legend."

All of a sudden, Laxus leaped in front of Natsu, giving him a sinister glare that terrified Happy again, just as he finally uncovered his eyes.

"Now, if you doubt this tale is so," the brute warned him, sounding darker than before. "I met that spook just a year ago. Now, I didn't stop for a second look, but made for the bridge that spans the brook. For once you cross that bridge, my friends, the ghost is through! His power ends!"

"What of it?" Natsu asked him. "He doesn't have any powers! He's just a man missing a head!"

"So, when you're riding home tonight, make for the bridge with all your might. He'll be down in the Hollow there. He needs your head."

"Look out! Beware!" Freed exclaimed with sheer terror.

"With a hip-hip and a clippity-clop," Evergreen started.

"He's out looking for a top to chop!" Bickslow joined in.

Now, all four of them gathered together in front of the fireplace to wrap up the eerie tale of the headless horseman: saying the final line in unison:

"So, don't try to figure out a plan, you can't reason with a HEADLESS MAN!"

Happy let out a scream of terror in reaction to the booming voices and the wind howling throughout. He was definitely going to have nightmares about this tale upon their impending return home.

"Whoa," Natsu gasped. "You really know how to tell a scary story to this many people."

He got up from his seat and picked Happy up, holding him in his arms in an attempt to reassure the terrified cat.

"Happy may be the only one who believes in it, but I don't. It's just a silly story."

"Really?" Laxus asked, frowning at his rival. "You have doubts about the tale of the headless horseman? Well, I have doubts that you will make Lucy your woman. Besides, she will be mine when I'm through with you."

"I don't think so," Natsu boasted, pressing his nose against Laxus' larger one. "I saw Lucy first, and you can't have her."

"Then I challenge you to a fight, first thing tomorrow morning. That is, if you can survive the midnight hour."

All of the people, including Lucy and Jude, gasped in shock regarding the challenge. There were murmurs and whispers heard among the guests, doubting that Natsu would even defeat the grandson of the town's mayor. Laxus had a strong, athletic physique and that was more than enough for him to defeat his previous challengers in Margaret Village. But as for the scrawny schoolmaster, would he be a match for the vigorous Laxus?

"I accept your challenge!" Natsu declared, sounding prideful. "And I will survive the midnight ride home. And even if this headless horseman turns out to be real, I will crush him!"

Lucy admired Natsu's bravery, and she will be the one to cheer him on when she would get to see her man fight the man she rejected—as long as Natsu would make out of the midnight hour alive and well.

As for Happy, he was deeply concerned about his best friend's safety as his little body quivered in trepidation.

"I have a bad feeling about this…," he thought aloud.

---

It was the witching hour of night when Natsu and Happy pursued their travel home. The night sky grew darker and darker as the stars winked out their lights one by one. Now the only source of light was the full moon, yet its luminous light was hidden by the clouds concealing this celestial body.

Even though Natsu and Happy did enjoy their first Halloween frolic, the tale of the Headless Horseman left Happy with an uneasy feeling whereas Natsu was full of pride, eager to defeat Laxus right in front of the dear lady Lucy.

"Gee, this is giving me the creeps…," Happy said.

As Igneel gently sauntered down the dirt path and into an eerie forest, Happy could feel the chilly wind linger on his blue fur and his teeth started to chatter. The sounds of an owl's hoot and the soft howl of the winds was a spooky sight that further heightened Happy's anxiety, even though Natsu was by his side.

"Hey, Natsu?" he asked his best friend.

"Yeah?" Natsu answered, glancing down at him.

"Do you think that the Headless Horseman would come for us? What if the tale Laxus and his gang told us really is true?"

"Ahh, don't listen to them! They're just telling that story for show, so that they could scare the pants off of us! Well, I'm not afraid of this headless horseman and I can't wait to prove Laxus wrong when I crush him tomorrow!"

All Happy could do was gulp apprehensively, as he snuggled closer to Natsu for warmth and comfort. Natsu began to whistle a tune that his father used to sing to him when he was a child traveling through the very same woods with him. Igneel's slow clip-clopping served as a beat for Natsu's whistling tune, unifying into one song that would somewhat ease Happy's nerves as the blue cat started to doze off. He could hear the whistling ricochet throughout the forest, the sound vibrations bouncing right back as it were light reflecting from a mirror.

Just then, the wind started to pick up, howling louder than before. An eerie sound suddenly woke Happy up from his sleepy state, causing him to shiver in trepidation. He had a strong possibility that the two could possibly be the Headless Horseman or any other of the spooks from the story due to the forest's atmosphere. The autumn leaves were flying in the cold breeze, passing by the moon that had just finally come out of hiding from the rolling clouds.

Although Natsu continued to whistle and Igneel kept clopping gently, Happy was still on edge as he turned around to see the forest closing behind them. Every small detail of Laxus' dreadful story had come to haunt the poor kitty, yet the schoolmaster remained vigilant about their surroundings.

The sound of a wolf howling made Happy jump in fright and he hid behind Natsu, shivering in terror as his paws firmly grasped his shoulders.

"Relax, Happy," Natsu reassured him. "It's just a wolf. We'll get out of this forest in no time."

Natsu gave a light whip to his reins, as he ordered his trusty steed:

"Giddy up, Igneel! Happy's starting to become scared of this forest."

Igneel complied, slightly picking up speed as his owner resumed whistling his father's tune. Happy's anxiety only increased the further they went into the woods, and he could hear the details from Laxus' tale play in his head, over and over again. He had a strong feeling that they would soon run into any one of the spooks mentioned—or worse, the Headless Horseman!

Another howl from the wolf made Happy gasp in horror, the leaves blowing in their faces as he and Natsu swung their arms around in an attempt to shoo them away.

Thankfully, the vision became clear again as soon as the leaves blew away from them, and Igneel continued to trot as Natsu and Happy examined the dark forest surrounding them. Just then, another loud howl echoed, frightening them both as Natsu whipped the reins. This time, Igneel started galloping quickly, his hooves clopping louder against the road.

Happy screamed at the sight of what would be an eerie phantom, as he hid behind Natsu again and started whimpering.

Fortunately, it only turned out to be a tree that had an open hollow, two fireflies escaping it as they provided a small light for the pair to see.

"Oh, it's just a tree with an open hollow," Natsu said, breathing a sigh of relief.

"Thank goodness," Happy sighed, also feeling allayed. "Now, let's get out of here The sooner we get home, the sooner we'll be in our cozy beds."

"You said it," Natsu replied with a nod. "Though you shouldn't believe in what Laxus told us. It's just a story."

Happy nodded, yet he suddenly jumped back at the sound of what would resemble echoing and hid further behind Natsu's shoulder. Natsu glanced over to see crickets chirping in the grass nearby the road, and he took a deep breath before resuming the ride.

Igneel's clopping continued throughout the forest, and while Natsu remained resilient, Happy was spooked by the sounds of an owl's hoot and frogs croaking. The two soon crossed a bridge that stood above a creek where the frogs resided, as the wind picked up once again and a row of cattails swayed to and fro.

Happy glanced at the sight of what looked like a phantom and started whimpering, yet the phantom actually turned out to be another tree. The sound of cawing crows made the kitty jump and Natsu's orb eyes widened greatly, yet he took a few deep breaths in an attempt to ease himself of his growing trepidation.

It's just a story. It's just a story. It's just a story…, Natsu thought, trying to remind himself. However, Laxus and Freed's words soon took over, a shiver rising up the pinkette's spine, and the combined sounds of the frogs' croaks, the owl's hoots and the crows' caws only made things worse.

"The ghosts and banshees… they get together for their nightly jamboree."

"Look out! Beware!"

"H-Happy?" Natsu finally spoke up to his best friend, starting to shiver.

"Yeah?" Happy responded.

"I-I think I'm starting to take back what I said to Laxus earlier. I have a feeling that these spooks are real after all."

"What if the Headless Horseman is real?"

"I-I haven't seen him yet, so we'll keep an eye out for any possible sightings of him here."

"Aye."

Unfortunately for them, the further they went into the woods, the louder the eerie sounds became, and Laxus and Freed's words only grew louder along with them. Playing the same phrases over and over and over again, like a broken record…

Natsu's heart began racing inside his chest, and his hands were trembling as they firmly grasped onto the reins. Even Igneel was starting to become afraid, as his golden eyes glanced over the tree branches that resembled long, monstrous arms. The leaves blowing in the wailing winds, the spider webs beautifully weaved on the branches above Natsu's head… they were all a terrifying sight for all three of them on this Halloween night.

Just then, a flock of crows dove down toward Natsu and he screamed in terror, shooing them away. They flew toward a graveyard that was located right outside of the forest, their caws echoing throughout the spooky woodland.

Clip-clop, clip-clop, clip-clop, clip-clop…

The next sound that was just heard seemed like the galloping of a horse. Natsu and Happy assumed that it was just Igneel; however, when they looked down, they noticed that Igneel had briefly slowed down.

"Hey! Igneel!" Natsu called out, whipping the reins. "Pick up the pace, will ya!?"

"We have to get home!" Happy reminded him.

However, Igneel gave them a perplexed expression on his long face and tilted his head, a question mark appearing above him. Now the trusty steed was out of the question, and finding the true source of the noise in these woods would be a tad tricky.

"Wait… so if it isn't Igneel, then…," Natsu wondered aloud.

"What if it's the Headless Horseman!?" Happy cried, sounding frantic.

"Happy! I told you, there's no Headless Horseman!" Natsu snapped. "It's just a story!"

"But you said—" Happy started, only to be startled by another howl from the wolf. He scampered underneath Natsu's coat and shivered, to the schoolmaster's dismay.

"Hey! Get out of there!" Natsu ordered him.

"Uh-uh!" Happy replied, shaking his head from inside.

Natsu groaned lowly and shook his head as Igneel continued to trot slowly. His trotting blended in well with the mysterious noise that sounded like the galloping, as Natsu tried his best to keep his composure.

"Now which way should we go?" he wondered aloud, only to hear the mysterious sound grow louder than Igneel's trotting. He had an uneasy feeling that Happy and Laxus would be correct: it might be the Headless Horseman!

"Hurry, Igneel!" he called out, whipping the reins rapidly. "I think we're being followed!"

Igneel complied, only to end up galloping too fast and Natsu was bucked right off of him. He and Happy were sent flying and they tumbled across the ground and crashed into a log. They groaned in pain as Igneel snickered at them mischievously, before whinnying into laughter.

"It's not funny, Igneel," Natsu grumbled, frowning at his horse.

"Hey! Look!" Happy cried, tugging onto Natsu's coat.

Natsu turned to see some cattails thumping against the log, thus making the noise that sounded like the horse's gallops.

"Oh! Well, what do ya know?" Natsu said. "It's these cattails hitting that log!"

"Thank goodness," Happy sighed in relief.

Natsu scooped Happy in his arms and walked back to Igneel, as he then said to him:

"Come on now, Happy. We've gotta get home, so I can dream about my future with Lucy!"

"And I want to dream about fish!" Happy said to him.

Just then, a sinister laughter echoed throughout the forest, sending chills up Natsu and Happy's spines.

"W-W-W-W-What was that?" Happy stammered, as they both quivered in terror.

"Aw, man…," Natsu said to his best friend. "Is that what I think it is?"

They gulped apprehensively, with sweat running down their faces as the slowly turned around to see…

…a shadowy figure standing before them, mounted on a black horse with glowing red eyes as his red cape billowed in the wind. And most of all, he was missing his head!

Natsu and Happy screamed in horror, as they held one another tightly in their arms.

"IT'S THE HEADLESS HORSEMAN!" Happy shouted, his big black eyes bulging out in sheer terror. "AND HE'S FOR REAL!"

"I REALLY DO TAKE IT BACK NOW! LAXUS WAS RIGHT!" Natsu cried. "THERE IS A HEADLESS HORSEMAN AFTER ALL!"

Natsu ducked underneath the horseman's sword and scrambled to climb back onto Igneel, as Happy mounted back on Natsu's shoulders.

"Gallop, Igneel!" he shouted, whipping the reins frantically. "GALLOP LIKE THE WIND!"

Igneel whinnied as he kicked up his front legs and galloped as fast as he could. Natsu gripped the reins tighter, with Happy holding onto left shoulder for dear life. The Headless Horseman soon pursued after them, his maniacal laughter scaring away the birds that may have lived in the woods.

"Hold onto me, Happy!" Natsu called out to his best friend.

"Aye, sir!" Happy replied, further tightening his grasp.

Happy turned back and gasped in alarm as the Headless Horseman was galloping closer to them, holding out his sword.

"Hurry, Natsu!" he exclaimed. "He's gaining on us!"

The Headless Horseman swung his sword at Natsu three times, only for the schoolmaster to duck underneath each time.

"There's no way in hell I'll lose my head to this creep!" Natsu retorted, as Igneel kept galloping throughout the moonlit forest.

It was just as they had feared: the headless man from Laxus' tale had turned out to be real, and he was in need of Natsu's head!

"Faster, Igneel!" Natsu ordered, whipping his reins again. "Faster!"

Igneel complied, galloping faster than before until the two were at least ten feet apart from their pursuer.

"Look out!" Happy cried.

Natsu gasped at the sight of a steep hill, and Igneel leaped from the hill as Natsu and Happy screamed in terror. The Headless Horseman soon followed with a leap that was much higher than Igneel.

Upon landing on the ground, Natsu turned back to see that there was no one following them—for now. Still, Igneel continued galloping as Natsu petted his steed's head.

"You're a good boy, Igneel, for making that big landing," he said to him.

Unfortunately for them, the Headless Horseman had managed to catch up to them, riding beside the mahogany steed as his wicked laughter continued.

"Natsu!" Happy cried. "The Headless Horseman's right beside us!"

Natsu gasped, ducking underneath the sword each time the Headless Horseman would swing at him. Determined not to lose his life, Natsu spotted a shortcut right up ahead and he took that path—only for the steed to slide down a steep hill that would lead them to a creek.

"I think we've lost him," Happy said, as Igneel galloped through the shallow waters.

Just as Natsu would be relieved to have escaped his pursuer, Igneel crashed into a tree, before whinnying in a panic once they finally made it out of the water.

"Faster!" Natsu cried, whipping the reins as many times as he could. "Faster, my trusty steed! Go! Go! Go!"

"Look!" Happy exclaimed, pointing to a clearing straight ahead of them. "It's s way out!"

The Headless Horseman leaped from out of the trees and in front of the clearing with another malicious laugh, causing Natsu and Happy to scream in terror once again.

Igneel came to a screeching halt in front of the Headless Horseman, who swung his sword once more at Natsu. The pinkette ducked underneath, as Igneel made a reverse turn and galloped frantically before they spotted another tree in front of them.

"Happy! I've got an idea," Natsu said to his best friend.

"What is it?" Happy questioned him.

"I'll use that tree there to swing right back so we can get out of these woods."

"Are you sure about this?!" Happy cried, becoming concerned about the idea. "What if the Headless Horseman catches up to us?"

"Then I'll just have to get him out of the way myself!" Natsu boasted, as he whipped the reins on Igneel. He gave the headless man a mighty kick, sending him flying off the black horse as he could hear it whinnying in dismay.

Now, with no time to waste, Igneel made a turn around the tree and back onto the path, just as Natsu had planned. He galloped with all of his might out of the woods, just as Natsu spotted a white wooden bridge that had a roof.

He remembered Laxus' words about the bridge during the frolic, as they played right in his head:

"Once you cross that bridge, my friends, the ghost is through! His power ends!"

"That's the exact bridge Laxus was talking about," Natsu thought aloud.

"We're saved!" Happy exclaimed merrily. "Now, we have to cross the bridge to get away from him!"

With all of the speed he had used, Igneel galloped through the bridge, and he slid across the dirt path once he was finally out. The schoolmaster and his cat had done it; they had just escaped the Headless Horseman.

"We did it!" Happy cheered. "We've crossed the bridge! We're safe now!"

"We sure are, buddy," Natsu said, patting Happy and Igneel's heads. "It seems that Laxus was right about the bridge."

That would mean it would be the end of the Headless Horseman's terrifying reign, as the two breathed a sigh of relief.

Igneel panted in exhaustion from pushing himself too hard, yet he was proud for having listened to his master well.

"Good job, Igneel," Natsu said to his steed. "Now, let's go home."

All of a sudden, a wicked laughter echoed throughout the open bridge, sending chills up Natsu and Happy spines. Their nightmare wasn't over just yet, as the Headless Horseman held up a flaming jack-o-lantern in his left hand. He was ready to make his final blow on the Salamander!

All Natsu and Happy could do at that point was scream in horror as the Headless Horseman hurled the blazing pumpkin at them, and soon, everything went black.

---

Night had turned into morning, as the sky was painted pale blue with pink. The morning sun was rising above the hillsides, and birds could be heard chirping throughout.

All that was left of Natsu was his prized scarf was lying on the ground right next to Igneel's tracks, and beside it was the pumpkin. It had shattered into pieces as a result of the Headless Horseman's attack, scattered all across the ground.

Word had spread throughout Magnolia Hollow of Natsu and Happy's disappearances. Lucy was the most heartbroken of them all, and she had rejected Laxus' proposal and left the village with her father. She had since married another man, Loke, and promised to honor Natsu in any way she can.

It had been rumored that Natsu was found by Lisanna, who had taken him and Happy in and cared for him with help from her older siblings. He had eventually married Lisanna, and they were blessed with two children: a son and a daughter. Natsu had returned to teaching at the schoolhouse with Levy shortly after his supposed return, whereas Lisanna became a stay-at-home mother to the children, cooking and cleaning to keep the home in tip-top shape.

As for Happy, he was playing with the kids, being chased by them around the yard Lisanna couldn't help but smile at them as she was hanging up some clean laundry to dry.

Natsu Dragneel, the Salamander of Magnolia Hollow, was fortunate to have survived the attack of the Headless Horseman, albeit he had to take the town's legend more seriously if he were to survive the midnight hour in the forest, where the Headless Horseman would strike every Halloween night.

---

Did you enjoy this (belated) Halloween treat? Please be civilized when reviewing this story! I will not tolerate any hateful comments, spam or trolling!

Note: This story has an alternate ending. Please check it out!