Hey guys, I'm back with another chapter! This chapter will be the last of the quick update chapters, so you'll have to wait a little while for the next one. In this chapter, I hope to end the Phantom Lord arc, so that we can move on into the Tower of Heaven arc; which I'm really looking forward to writing. Real quick, I want to thank MCvCODvBF for giving me the idea for the opening part of this chapter. Well there's not much else to say, so let's get to the fic.
"Speech"
"Thoughts"
Magic
Disclaimer: I don't own Fairy Tail, or any of its characters. They're all still in Hiro Mashima's capable hands.
(Outside of Fairy Tail)
"Bisca what's going on now?" Cana asked, when the blinding light had died down and the smoke had cleared.
"It's still kinda hard to see." Bisca replied, as she peered through the scope of her rifle. "But...Yes! Natsu's still standing! And...Gajeel's down! He did it!"
"Yeah! Natsu really beat Gajeel!"
"He did it!"
"Wait...Here comes Lucy and Happy..." Bisca said, watching the blonde celestial spirit mage land in front of the pink-haired dragon slayer. "Awww...she's giving him a hug! She must be thanking him for-" Cana was surprised when the green-haired cowgirl suddenly stopped talking. Gazing down at Bisca, the brunette card mage was surprised to see a fierce blush spreading across the woman's face.
"Oi Bisca, what's happening?" Cana asked, as she tapped the cowgirl's shoulder. "You got real quiet all of a sudden, and you're blushing up a storm. What did you see?"
"I...I...I shouldn't say." Bisca replied, lowering her rifle; the blush on her face darkening several shades. "Damn, I wish Alzack would man the hell up and kiss me like that."
"Gimme that!" Cana exclaimed, before she snatched the rifle from Bisca's hands. The cowgirl tried to take the rifle back, but Cana managed to hold her off. Peering through the scope, Cana didn't see anything too strange. "What are you blushing for? It just looks like Happy's teasing them about something...and now Natsu is pressing his forehead against Lucy's...Wait...What's Natsu...Oh my God!" Cana couldn't believe what she was seeing. Natsu and Lucy were kissing, and the lush brunette swore she could see some tongue!
"Cana!" Bisca hissed, trying her hardest to get her rifle back. "Don't you dare tell anyone! We have to keep what we saw a secret until they're ready!"
"Oh don't worry, their secret is safe with me." Cana said, as she handed the rifle back to Bisca.
"Good, now let's mop up the rest of these shade soldiers." Bisca said, slinging the rifle over her shoulder. The green-haired cowgirl never noticed the smirk the spread across the busty brunette's face.
"Heheh, I'm never gonna let those two hear the end of this." Cana thought, as she imagined all of the ways she could tease both mages.
(With Erza and Jose)
"Hahaha." Jose laughed, as the room began to collapse around them. "Those dragons sure do love to rampage and run wild...*Sigh* But judging from that heat wave we just felt, it seems my iron dragon was defeated."
"*Pant* *Pant* You've all underestimated Natsu...*Pant* His...His magical power is on a level even greater than mine now." Erza said, trying her best to remain standing. The scarlet-haired knight was exhausted from the constant fighting, and was on the verge of collapse. But Titania couldn't falter now, around her laid the bodies of her unconscious nakama. If she fell now, they'd all be easy targets for Jose.
"Hm, stop being so modest Titania." Jose said, as he let out a dark chuckle. "Your magical power is truly something to behold. Truth be told...no mage has ever lasted this long against me." An evil smirk spread across Jose's face, as he raised his hand. "Why if you hadn't stopped Jupiter this may have been a much more interesting fight. However, I just can't stand the thought..." Dark magical energy began to gather around Jose's hand. "Of another mage of that level existing in Makarov's guild!" A stream of dark energy flew from Jose's hand and struck Erza. Titania screamed in pain, as she was sent flying back into a wall. "Do you have any idea why I didn't just kill Makarov outright?" Erza suddenly sprang out of the wall to dodge another one of Jose's attacks. "Despair. I wanted to show him true and unrelenting despair." Erza growled when she saw another twisted smile on Jose's face. "How would he feel to open his eye and find his beloved guild destroyed and nakama killed. Hahahaha...such sorrow he would feel...I can almost see it now...I will kill that man once I know he feels true despair! I won't simply kill him! That would be far too easy! I must make him suffer, suffer until the bitter end!"
"You disgusting bastard!" Erza growled, continuing to dodge Jose's attacks.
"Phantom Lord has always been the number one guild in Fiore..." Jose continued, a maniacal look in his eyes. "In this whole country, our magic was unsurpassed, our members' talents were unsurpassed, and our wealth was unsurpassed! But...in the span of just a few years Fairy Tail rose to power." Jose leveled a fierce glare upon Erza. "Laxus and Erza, Mystogan and Gildarts, even Natsu and Gray...their names spread as far as my hometown. Rumors of you and Natsu's legendary teamwork spread through out the entire country. Before I knew it, Phantom Lord and Fairy Tail came to represent this country. I-I just couldn't stand it! They, who started out as some shitty weak little guild, now challenged the might Phantom Lord for the spot of top guild!"
"Are you telling me this whole war was because of some petty fucking jealousy?!" Erza roared, charging forward and slashing her dual swords at Jose. Phantom Lord's master easily dodged Erza's powerful strikes. "All this bloodshed and destruction was because you were jealous of us?!"
"Jealousy? That's not it." Jose said, as he dodged a horizontal slash. "We just wish to make it painfully clear that we're the strongest guild in Fiore!"
"For some stupid fucking reason like that!? You caused all this chaos just so you could flex your muscles, and show how strong you are?!" Erza screamed, before she was captured by Jose's magic. The scarlet-haired knight winced as the magic's grip on her tightened.
"Oh, Fairy Tail has been irritating me for a long time. But the trigger for this war was actually quite trivial." Jose said, as a smirk spread across his face. "We received a request to recover the lost heiress to the Heartfilia conglomerate."
"Lucy?!" Erza thought, fearing for the blonde celestial spirit mage's safety.
"The daughter of one of the wealthiest men in Fiore joined Fairy Tail?! How 'amazing' did your guild have to become before you were satisfied?!" Jose yelled, with a crazed look in his eyes. "If you pathetic guild had free reign over the Heartfilia's funds...then your power would finally exceed Phantom Lord's! And that is something that simply cannot happen!" Erza screamed in pain, as the magic began to constrict her. The scarlet-haired knight coughed up some blood as her breathing started to become ragged. However, through all the pain Erza managed to crack a smile.
"You know, it's pretty fucking pathetic of you to get all worked up over 'who's the best.' But...what's really surprising is how terrible...your information gathering is." Erza said in a strained voice, as sweat began to pour off her brow. "
"What did you say, little missy?" Jose asked, glaring at Titania.
"Lucy ran away from home you dumbass...We couldn't use her money...even if we wanted too..." Erza explained, which caused Jose's eyes to widen considerably. "She lives in a 70,000 jewel apartment, that she works her ass off to pay for...just like the rest of us...she's fought with us...laughed with us...and cried with us...She became friends with everyone in the span of a few days...She's a mage of our guild...You're telling me this war started because of Lucy, heiress to the Heartfilia family? A flower can't pick where it blooms...And a child can't choose the parents she's born to." Erza became filled with a sudden rage, as she fiercely glared at Jose. "You don't know a fucking thing about Lucy!"
"Well I guess I'll find out then." Jose said, a maniacal glint in his eyes. "Do you really expect me to hand her over for free? Oh no, I'm going milk her for every cent she's worth, until the Heartfilia's have no money left. I'm going to get my hands on the entire Heartfilia fortune."
"FUCK YOU!" Erza roared, as she desperately tried break free from the magic restraining her. "When I get my hands on you, I'm going to kick the shit out of you! I won't let you lay a fucking finger on Lucy!"
"Oh I wouldn't struggle if I were you. It will all be over you soon." Jose said, as he picked up one of Erza's sword. Phantom Lord's master smirked when he felt a powerful magical presence approaching. "Hmm, it seems like Makarov has made a recovery. Let's make this fun shall we?" Raising Erza's sword like a spear, Jose hurled it at the defenseless knight. But before the sword could reach Erza, the blade was caught in the air. Jose caught a flash of pink hair, as the newcomer grabbed Erza and dove for cover. "That wasn't Makarov. But...but the amount of magical power I sensed...it was on the same level as Makarov's...Who is this boy?"
"Are you okay, Erza?" Slowly opening her eyes, Erza was shocked to see Natsu hovering over her. "Erza, please say something."
"N-Natsu?" Erza asked, as sense of relief washed over her. Natsu was here, the dragon had come to save the knight. "What are you doing here? What about Lucy?"
"Lucy is fine. I beat Gajeel, and had Happy get her out of here." Natsu explained, laying Erza's sword down next to the knight. The pink-haired dragon slayer scanned over Erza's injuries. She was bruised and cut in several places, but she'd be fine in a few days. "I felt something was off, so I came rushing here to help you." Natsu gazed around the rest of the room, and spotted Mirajane, Gray, and Elfman's unconscious forms. "He did this to all of you?"
"Yes...he's incredibly powerful..." Erza said, as she hung her head. "There was nothing I could do against him."
"You, hiding over there!" Jose's voice rang out, startling Erza and Natsu. "Are you going to cower away forever, or are you going to show yourself?"
"Natsu...you need to get out of here." Erza pleaded, as she cupped Natsu's cheek. "Whatever happened earlier...you're stronger...so much stronger than before...but you're still no match against him...He's a guild master and a Wizard Saint...the only ones who could stand against him are Master himself and Gildarts."
"I know I'm not stronger than him." Natsu said, gently gripping Erza's wrist and removing her hand from his face. "But I have to buy us some time...I just have to stall him for a little bit longer." The pink-haired dragon slayer suddenly pulled Erza in for a tight hug. "Please, stay here and don't move. You'll be safe behind cover, I won't let him hurt you anymore."
"Natsu..." Erza whimpered, as she felt tears sting her left eye. The scarlet-haired knight tightly wrapped her arms around Natsu's neck. "Please don't go out there. He might kill you, Natsu"
"It's a risk I have to take." Natsu said, breaking their embrace. "He'll be here soon, and I need to get him some extra time."
"Who'll be here?" Erza asked, but it was too late. Natsu had already stood and let their hiding spot. "Natsu...for the love of God, please stay safe."
"So...you're the one I sensed that incredible magical power from?" Jose asked, as Natsu emerged from behind the cover he was hiding behind. "Ah, you're the Salamander aren't you. I've heard so many rumors about you. If you're here then that must mean you've defeated Gajeel. He is such a disappointment."
"Shut your God damn mouth." Natsu snarled, his eyes filling with rage. "Gajeel may have hurt my nakama and trashed my guild, and I can never forgive him for some of the things he's done. But don't you dare call him a disappointment. He gave me the toughest damn fight of my life, and without Lucy saving my ass I'd likely be dead right now."
"What?!" Erza thought, as she clenched a hand over her heart. "Natsu...almost died? Thank you Lucy...thank you for keeping him safe."
"I learned a lot from him during our fight. He didn't need to tell me anything with words, I learned a lot about him through our fists." Natsu's fist suddenly became engulfed in intense blue flames. "You've corrupted him. Just like you corrupted Juvia. Made them think that Fairy Tail was a terrible good-for-nothing guild, and that we needed to be put in our place. Gajeel may be an arrogant, self absorbed asshole at times, but I can tell that deep down he's actually a good guy; who's gone through numerous hardships, just like all of us dragon slayers. I stand for you belittling one of my fellow dragon slayers, especially one who you've twisted with your damn lies!"
"Oho, and what are you going to do about it?" Jose taunted with an amused look.
"You may be a Wizard Saint and a guild master, but that does't mean I can't kick your ass!" Natsu exclaimed, his blue flames exploding off his body.
"My, my, what powerful flames. But they won't be enough to beat me." Jose said, as dark magic surrounded his entire body. "My shade magic consumes all in its path."
"Funny, so do my flames." Natsu said, a feral grin spreading across his face. "Let's see who's magic is really all consuming."
"Hmm, you may actually prove be quite entertaining." Jose said, as he gestured for Natsu to attack. "Come little dragon, show me what you've got."
"You asked for it!" Natsu roared, charging towards Jose. Phantom Lord's guild master unleashed a wave of shade magic, but Natsu's fast reflexes allowed him to slide underneath it. "Fire Dragon's Purifying Iron Fist!" Natsu struck Jose with a powerful flaming uppercut; sending the man into the air. Quickly following up with another attack, Natsu's cheeks began to bulge with lightning. "Lightning Dragon's Static Roar!" A large stream of orange lightning flowed from Natsu's mouth and struck Jose. When Natsu's attack hit, an explosion filled the room with static electricity.
"Did...did he get him?" Erza asked, as she poked her head out of cover.
"I must say that was rather impressive." Jose said, emerging from a cloud of smoke. However, Erza and Natsu's eyes widened when Jose appeared to be completely unharmed. "Those flames are the hottest I've ever felt, I think they may have even singed my hair. And that lightning is quite impressive to, it actually tickled me a little."
"Damn, he doesn't even have a fucking scratch on him!" Natsu thought, as he grit his teeth in frustration. "But I just have to hold him off for a little bit longer. He'll be here soon, I know it!" Natsu's cheeks suddenly bulged with searing blue fire. "Fire Dragon's Purifying Roar!" The stream of fire erupted from Natsu's mouth, and rocketed towards Jose. But to Natsu's horror, Jose created a wall of shade magic which completely dissolved his flames.
"I think I'm done playing with you." Jose said in a menacing tone; lowering the wall of dark magic. "You definitely are strong, you may even have the potential to surpass Makarov and Gildarts. But that means you're a threat to my plan, which means I must eliminate you." In the blink of an eye, Jose had Natsu by the throat. Natsu gasped as Jose's grip tightened around his throat. "Such a shame. If only you'd joined my guild instead. You could have been such a valuable asset."
"Fuck...you..." Natsu said, as he definitely glared at Jose.
"Such insolence. What is with you fairies and your foul mouths?" Jose asked, his fingers digging into Natsu's throat. However, Jose's grip slackened slightly when he saw a smile spread across Natsu's face. "What are you smiling about, boy? You happy to be at death's door?"
"Erza's...right...you really are...a dumbass..." Natsu said, causing Jose to snarl in annoyance. "I wasn't...really trying to...beat you..." Jose's eyes shot open when he felt a second large magical presence approaching. "I was...distracting your...stupid ass..."
"Why you little-" Jose never finished his sentence. A burst of light magic collided into Jose's stomach; sending Phantom Lord's master flying back. Natsu dropped to the dropped, taking several deep lungfuls of air.
"You spilled much blood on this day..." An angry voice said from behind a wall of smoke and debris. "The blood of my children...Thanks to pitiful parents, a child went through much pain, and shed many tears..." Jose growled as the newcomer's figure became visible trough the smoking; revealing the person to be of short stature. "And that goes for more than one child...this has gone far enough..." The figure fully stepped out of the smoke; revealing Fairy Tail's master, Makarov Dreyar. "I must put an end to this!"
"Master." Erza breathed out, as a single tear rolled down her left cheek.
"I knew you'd come, Ji-chan." Natsu said, grinning at Makarov.
"So, you wish to cause a catastrophe, Makarov?" Jose asked with a crazed look in his eyes.
"If it is necessary to save my guild and my children." Makarov replied, glaring at Jose with eyes full of fury.
(Forest Outside Magnolia)
"The trees...the Earth...the atmosphere...they're all afraid..." Porlyusica thought, as she gazed up at the sky. Suddenly the pink-haired woman growled, and kicked a box next to her; sending several apples tumbling onto the ground. "This is exactly why humans are so stupid! They're just a bunch of morons, who think fighting is the only way to solve anything! That dumbass, Makarov! If you want to die so badly, go ahead! See if I care!" As Porlyusica continued to rant and rave, her eye caught an apple as it rolled away. She followed the rolling fruit until it was stopped by a masked man, who was sitting on a tree stump. "Mystogan."
"May I?" Mystogan asked, holding up the apple.
"I see..." Porlyusica said, as she rubbed her chin. "I thought it was quite strange that Makarov made such a speedy recovery. You must have gathered all of his lost magic." A tic mark formed on Porlyusica's head when Mystogan said nothing, and simply bit into his apple. "Oi! Don't just go around eating random fruit!"
"Two giants have made their move..." Mystogan said cryptically, before taking another bite of the apple. "This war will end soon." A hidden smirk spread across Mystogan's face. "It seems Natsu has become even more powerful. Keep getting stronger and protect those that you love, my old friend."
"I don't enjoy making remarks that condone humans fight one another...you're a nakama of Makarov's too, aren't you? Why aren't you out there, getting involved in the conflict some way?" Porlyusica's suddenly eyes widened when Mystogan reached into his cloak, and pulled out dozens of Phantom Lord flags. "Phantom Flags?! Don't tell me...he single-handedly took out all of Phantom Lord's subdivisions!"
"I'm needed on the frontline. Natsu and Master Makarov have things handled." Mystogan said, as he stood up from the tree stump. "Do you have anymore apples?"
"Tch, you people truly amaze me." Porlyusica said, turning her back to Mystogan. "An excess of power only leads to sorrows...and anger can cause one to forget they are surrounded in tragedies..."
"I wish to believe that those tragedies are bathed in a sacred light." Mystogan said, as he gazed up at the clear blue sky. "A sacred light, that is guiding this world."
(With Makarov and Jose)
"Natsu, you did well holding him off." Makarov said, casting a quick glance over at the pink-haired dragon slayer. "You've grow so much, and have become so strong...but you must get everyone else out of here."
"Huh?" Gray muttered, as he and Elfman regained consciousness. "What's this warm feeling...this magic feels so nostalgic."
"I'm not going to repeat my self again." Makarov said in a stern and serious tone. "You all need to leave, now!"
"Master?!" Gray exclaimed, his eyes widening in surprise.
"Why are you here?!" Elfman shouted, slowly getting onto his feet.
"Just do what Ji-chan say." Natsu said, as he hoisted Erza onto her feet and let her lean against him for support.
"Flame brain? You don't want to stay and fight?" Gray asked, quirking a dark eyebrow.
"Come on Mira, can you stand on your own?" Natsu asked, as he helped the barmaid onto her feet.
"Yeah, I'm fine Natsu." Mirajane said, flashing Natsu a small smile. "Thanks for coming back for us."
"I could never leave my knight and favorite barmaid behind." Natsu said, causing a slight blush to spread across both girls' faces.
"Now that you're here before me, I have no interest in those weaklings." Jose said, as he continued his stare down with Makarov. "However, I shall slaughter them all once we're finished here."
"Natsu, are you seriously suggesting we just leave, Ji-chan?' Gray asked, causing Natsu to release a heavy sigh.
"This isn't our fight Gray." Natsu said, as he turned to exit Phantom Lord's guild. "I hate to say this, but we'll just get in the way of this fight. I know this sounds really weird coming from me, but we stand no chance against him."
"We need to leave everything to Master, and believe in him." Erza said, casting one last glance at Makarov.
"Tch, I guess you're right." Gray said, as he rubbed the back of his head. "Let's get out of here."
"It has been six years since we stood face-to-face!" Jose exclaimed, his imposing figure towering over Makarov. "Who would have thought Fairy Tail could become so large in such a short span of time? Ah...but's nothing more than a mere pile of scraps and rubble now."
"A guild is not just a building!" Makarov said, as he made several sweeping gestures with his fingers; forming dozens of small spheres of light in front of him. "It is the sum of its members!"
"Still, I am so overjoyed..." Jose said, his large twisted smile forming again. "For two of the Wizard Saints to fight to determine who's stronger."
"My children, I thank you all for your efforts." Makarov said to the retreating Fairy Tail mages. "You've all done so well. Take pride in being members of Fairy Tail!" The sky above Phantom Lord's guild hall soon filled with menacing storm clouds. Lightning flashed and thunder rang out. Below the ocean began to stir, causing large waves to crash into the remaining portion of Phantom Lord. Lastly the ground began to quake, as if an earthquake had struck. Without warning, a bolt of light fired from Makarov's finger, and pierced Jose's shoulder. Phantom Lord's master was sent flying back by the force of the attack. However, Makarov winced as a similar wound suddenly appeared on his shoulder. Skidding to a stop, Jose gathered a large amount of shade magic around his hands.
"Dead Wave!" Jose roared, sending a torrent of ghosts which formed a destructive wave. Makarov was prepared for this, and cast a powerful defensive spell to block Jose's attack. Jose's spell clashed with Makarov's sending out a massive shockwave, that shook the entire guild.
(With Natsu and the Others)
"What was that?!" Gray asked, as bits of debris rained down on them.
"That's the power of two wizard saints." Natsu said, reaching the exit to Phantom Lord's guild. "You glad we didn't stay now?" Seeing Gray nod, Natsu gently handed Erza over to him. "Take Erza and get out of here."
"Wait, what about you Natsu?" Erza asked, before worry flashed through her eyes. "You're not going back there are you?"
"Are you fucking kidding me? I may make a lot of rash decisions, but I don't have a death wish. I still have too many things to do." Natsu said, patting Erza on the head. "I just have something I need to do before I head out of here. Don't worry, I'll be fine..." Suddenly Natsu noticed that someone was missing from the group. "Oi, where's Juvia?"
"Huh?" Gray said, as he scanned over the members of their group. "You're right she's gone. She must have regained consciousness before the rest of us, and slipped out."
"Damn it, she left before I could say goodbye again." Natsu said, rubbing the back of his head. "She's a tough girl, so I know she'll be fine wherever she is. Plus I get the feeling we'll be seeing her soon enough."
"Tch, whatever you say flame brain." Gray said, as he turned to exit Phantom Lord's guild hall. "Come on Erza, let's get out of here."
"Right." Erza said, turning her head back to gaze at Natsu's retreating form. "Stay safe Natsu!"
"Yeah, you better not come back more hurt than you already are!" Mirajane called out, earning her and Erza a thumbs up from the pink-haired dragon slayer.
"Come on nee-chan, we need to get out of here." Elfman said, placing a hand on Mirajane's shoulder.
"You're right." Mirajane said with a smile, as the Fairy Tail mages exited the guild hall.
(Back With Makarov and Jose)
"That was fairly impressive." Makarov said, smoke and debris blowing around him and Jose. "So much power at a young age...you've definitely earned your spot amongst the Wizard Saints." The elderly master released a light sigh, and locked eyes with Jose. "If you had used your power for good, and become a model mage for those younger than you, the magic world would have benefitted greatly."
"Heh, are you preaching to me old man..." Jose asked, as a smirk spread across his face.
"It is a custom for Fairy Tail's justice system...I give you to the count of three." Makarov said in a menacing tone, his body growing until he towered over Jose. Now the gigantic man loomed over Jose. "Kneel!"
"What?" Jose asked in an amused tone. "You think I'll bo-"
"One!" Makarov's voice thundered out, as he began his countdown.
"Hahahaha! What nonsense are you spouting?! There is no way I'll kneel before you!" Jose exclaimed, glaring up at Makarov.
"Two!" A large amount of magical energy began to gather in between Makarov's hands; the magical energy took the form a glowing sphere of magical energy.
"You wish for me to kneel before you, and acknowledge you as the strongest guild in Fiore?! Stopping messing around! We're fighting, and I am your equal!" Jose roared, anger surging through his body. "Forget that, I'm stronger than you!"
"Three!"
"You're the one who should be kneeling before me! Now die already! Crumble to dust and be erased from history, Fairy Tail!" Jose yelled, as he began to prepare an attack of his own.
"Your time is up, Jose. It's time for you to receive divine judgement!" Makarov exclaimed, clapping his hands together. "Fairy Law, activate!" The storm clouds overhead separated and a blinding, almost holy, light flooded the entire area. A light rivaling Natsu's blinding area flooded the sky. Everyone had to shield their eyes from the brilliant light. The defending Fairy Tail mages, along with Erza and her team, were in awe of the beautiful light.
"Wha...What's that light?"
"It's so bright!"
"Oi! Something is happening to the shades!"
All around the Fairy Tail mages, Jose's shade ghost soldiers were destroyed by the intense light. The ghosts eerie screams filled the everyone's ears, as they were taken out one-by-one.
"It's not harming us?" Alzack said, as he inspected himself for any injuries.
"This light...it's friendly?" Bisca asked, watching the last of the ghostly soldiers disappear.
"It's Fairy Law!" Erza said, as a bright smile spread across her face. "With holy light, it destroys all darkness. It only harms things that the caster considers an enemy! It's a super-magic that is counted as a legendary spell!"
"That means..."
"WE WON!"
"WE BEAT PHANTOM LORD!"
When the light began to dissipate, Jose stood deathly still. Phantom Lord's guild master was a ghostly pale, and all of his hair had turned white. The formerly boisterous guild master now had a horrified expression plastered on his face. Jose's mouth hung agape, and his eyes were wide open; he would occasionally twitch every few seconds.
"Never come near Fairy Tail, or my children ever again!" Makarov said, glaring at Jose. "You've caused so much damage, the council is sure to take action! But for now I can only worry about my own!" As Makarov walked away from Jose, he never noticed Aria sneaking up behind him.
"Just like before!" Aria thought, as he prepared another surprise attack on Makarov. "He's full of openings! I've got him!"
"Fire Dragon's Purifying Iron Fist!" Out of nowhere, Natsu launched towards Aria. The dual dragon slayer's blue flaming fist slammed into Aria's jaw; sending the man flying through a nearby wall. "Stay the fuck away from Ji-chan."
"Thank you my boy, but I knew he was there." Makarov said, turning to face the pink-haired dragon slayer. "Why are you still here? I thought I told you all to get out of here?"
"I knew you could have gotten him Ji-chan, but I owed him for that cheap shot he got on you earlier." Natsu said, as he rubbed the back of his head. "I'm still here because I've got some business to take care of, it shouldn't take very long."
"*Sigh* Well make it quick." Makarov said, turning to leave once again. "This war is now over. We've won this battle." Makarov glared at the hole Aria had been blow through. "If you wish to still fight, I'll obliterate you! Take Jose and get out of here, now!"
(Two Minutes Later)
"Oi! You still up here?!" Natsu called up, as he climbed back up to where Gajeel was.
"Yeah, I'm still here you fucking loudmouth." Gajeel said, sitting against a partially destroyed wall. The iron dragon slayer had managed to drag himself upright, despite the severe burns that covered his body. "I told ya earlier that I could barely move, and that hasn't fucking changed."
"Wow, someone's in a bad mood." Natsu teased with a toothy grin. "You a sore loser or something?"
"Shut your damn trap!" Gajeel exclaimed, his blood red eyes glaring at Natsu. "You said you had some questions for me, so out with it."
"Your dragon slayer magic..." Natsu said, as he approached Gajeel and sat down next to the iron dragon slayer. "Where did you learn it...or do you have a lacrima in your body?"
"Lacrima? I'm fucking insulted that'd you think I have a that fake ass dragon slayer magic." Gajeel said, before he took a deep breath. "I learned my magic from a dragon...his name was Metalicana...the iron dragon."
"So you did learn your magic from a dragon." Natsu said, as he rubbed his chin. "You're the second dragon slayer I've met...the other one I haven't seen in...God like seven years now...I was raised by two dragons...Igneel, the fire dragon king...and Valinor, the lightning dragon king."
"So you really did learn magic from two different dragons, kings no less?" Gajeel said, pondering what Natsu had said. Suddenly Gajeel's eyes widened when he remembered something Metalicana had told him. "Wait a second...that blonde girl...Lucy I think her name was...is she...is she your mate?"
"One of them, why do you ask?" Natsu replied, his eyes narrowing dangerously at the iron dragon slayer.
"One of them? You can have more than one?" Gajeel asked, earning a nod from the pink-haired dragon slayer next to him.
"It has to do with me being raised by two different dragon kings. Mating is different when it comes to dragon kings. They're driven to take multiple mates apparently." Natsu explained, as he continued to glare at Gajeel. "Now answer my question. Why did you want to know?"
"I just wanted to know, because it makes sense why you went so berserk when we fought. You were pissed that I hurt your mate, I'm actually kinda surprised you didn't kill me." Gajeel said with a dry chuckle.
"You may have hurt Luce, but I couldn't kill you. I would never be able to forgive myself if I killed someone in cold blood. I wouldn't be able to face my nakama again." Natsu said, tightly clasping his hands in his lap. "However, if you had killed Lucy, I would have taken your life without hesitation. I...I can't lose her, or any of the girls I'm trying to mate with. So, I'm only give you one warning Gajeel. If I ever see you hurt Lucy again, I will beat you to within an inch of your life."
"Okay, okay, message received." Gajeel said, as he slowly inched away from Natsu. "I won't lay a hand on blondie again."
"So, how's Metalicana doing?" Natsu asked, trying to change the subject.
"I dunno." Gajeel said, as his expression suddenly became downtrodden. "He disappeared one day without saying a thing...*Sigh* He was always so selfish."
"Hey, Metalicana didn't disappear on July 7th, X777, did he?" Natsu asked, causing Gajeel's eyes to shoot open.
"Do you have an idea where Metalicana is?" Gajeel replied, a hopeful look in his eyes.
"No." Natsu replied, causing Gajeel to deflate instantly. "It's just that Igneel disappeared on the same day, along with the dragon of the other dragon slayer I met..."
"*Grunt* Well this ain't got anything to do with me." Gajeel said, as he slowly inched up the wall back onto his feet. Wincing in pain, the iron dragon slayer pushed off the wall that had been supporting him.
"If you're gonna leave, you better get out of here soon." Natsu said, causing Gajeel's head to snap towards him.
"This is our guild! You fucking leave!" Gajeel exclaimed, as he glared at Natsu.
"Well the magical council will probably be here soon, and I'm guessing they're not going to be too kind if they catch you." Natsu said, standing back onto his feet as well.
"Shit, you're right." Gajeel said, as he gazed down at his feet. "I better get out of here then."
"If you hear anything about Igneel let me know." Natsu said, turning to leave.
"Find out yourself." Gajeel said, not bothering to turn and face Natsu.
"If I find anything out about Metalicana, I'll tell you." Natsu said, stopping Gajeel in his tracks. The iron dragon slayer turned his head to see Natsu grinning at him. "Besides, we're both dragon slayers. We need to look out for each other."
"I don't need anyone to look out for me." Gajeel said, as he turned his head back around. "Oi, Salamander?"
"Yeah Gajeel." Natsu said, surprised by the iron dragon slayer's sudden change of tone.
"For...For what it's worth...I'm sorry for hurting blondie...and wrecking your guild..." Gajeel said, as he hung his head. "If I had know she was your mate, I would never have gone near her. I know you never fuck with a dragon's mate."
"I accept your apology Gajeel, but I can't forgive you for some of the things you've done." Natsu said, earning a deep sigh from the iron dragon slayer.
"Yeah, I expected that." Gajeel said, as he rubbed the back of his head. "Maybe we'll cross paths again one day, Salamander. When we do, I want a rematch."
"You got it." Natsu said, a small smile spreading across his face. "You know, you'll always be welcome at Fairy Tail." With those final words, Natsu turned and left Gajeel alone.
"Tch, like I'd ever join that pathetic guild." Gajeel said, as he began to limp away. The idea of joining Fairy Tail didn't sound so bad all of a sudden.
(Ruins of Fairy Tail)
"Wow..." Makarov said, scratching his chin as he stared at the rubble that remained of Fairy Tail's guild hall. "This place got trashed."
"U-Uh, Master..." Lucy said sheepishly, as she rubbed her arm.
"Hmm? Looks like you all ran into quite a bit of trouble." Makarov said, causing Lucy's face to sadden.
"Don't look so sad Lu-chan!" A cheery voice called out from Behind Lucy. The blonde celestial spirit mage slowly turned around, and saw Levy, Jet, Droy, and Reedus standing behind her. The members of Team Shadow Gear were all heavily bandaged, and Reedus covered in several cuts and bruises as well. "It's a victory! We all fought together to achieve it!"
"Although, our guild kinda got smashed." Droy commented with a light chuckle.
"Ah, we can just rebuild it." Jet said, smiling at Lucy.
"Levy-chan...Reedus...Jet...Droy..." Lucy said, as regret filled her eyes.
"Sorry for making you worry." Levy said, causing Lucy to tear up.
"N-No...it's my..." Lucy was quickly cut off by Levy.
"I heard the whole story, and no one blames you for any of this, Lu-chan." Levy said, as Lucy began to violently shake her head.
"Lucy." Makarov's stern voice suddenly rang out. "Happiness. Sadness. We can't share all out it, but we can share some of it. That is guild. One member's happiness, is everyone's happiness. One member's rage, is everyone's rage. One member's tears, are everyone's tears." Lucy began to get chocked up as she listened to Makarov's speech. "You don't have to suffer with guilt, we're all here for you. Please raise your head, for you are a pound member of Fairy Tail." That finally did, tears finally began to pour from Lucy's eyes. The blonde collapsed to her knees, and covered her face with her hands.
"Let it all out Luce. Like Ji-chan said, we're all here for you." Natsu said, crouching next to Lucy and patting her back. That simply made Lucy cry even harder. Natsu smiled and pulled Lucy into a tight embrace, as the rest of Fairy Tail gathered around the blonde to try and cheer her up.
(One Week Later)
"It's been one week since our war with Phantom Lord. Things are finally starting to be normal again." Lucy thought, as she jotted down another note to her mother. "But we've had a lot of trouble since the war ended. We got rounded up by the council's ruin knights. They took us to an army camp far away for an investigation. We were questioned relentlessly everyday. And after a whole week, they finally let us go. The council is going to deliver their verdict on Fairy Tail later. But don't worry mom, the verdict probably won't be too serious. Because we have plenty of evidence and eye witnesses to prove that Phantom Lord started the whole war. Anyways mom, I have some big news. I finally got the man of my dreams. His name is Natsu, and I'm sure you'd love him. I've had a crush on him for so long, and ever since I joined Fairy Tail my feelings for him have only grown. I recently found out that he loves me too, and we're starting to work things out. Since the army was investigating us, we could't really spend too much time together. But he'd always find a way for us to meet up in private. Our relationship is a little different, for reasons I won't go into, but I love him with all of my heart." Lucy suddenly winced when one of the large bruises on her side began to ache.
"Damn it, that really stings. I really hope this won't leave a mark." Lucy said, lifting up her shirt to look at the bruise just above her waist. The blonde sighed and returned to writing her letter.
"Hey...mom...do you really think it was him who was really behind all of this? This seems too far even for him." Lucy through, as she remembered how poorly her father used to treat her, even when it was her birthday. "But why is he trying so hard to get me back all of a sudden? It's not like he ever had any interest in me. I've caused so much trouble for Fairy Tail. Mom...he'll do it again...won't he...The same thing...using the power of his money...I have to do something..." Lucy let out a light sigh. Placing the letter in an envelope, Lucy sealed the letter close. With determination flashing through her eyes, Lucy grabbed another sheet of paper.
(Fairy Tail Construction Site)
"God damn this is heavy." Natsu said in a strained voice, carrying over a dozen large wood planks on his back.
"That's because you're carrying so many dumbass." Gray said, just as he noticed something out of the corner of his eye. But before he could get a good look whatever was there had left.
"Ha! You're just jealous because you can't carry as many as me!" Natsu taunted, his eyes daring the ice mage to challenge.
"Tch, if I really wanted to I could carry twice as many as your weak ass." Gray said, as he lifted a wooden plank onto his shoulder. Within minutes Gray had twice as many planks on his back as Natsu. The ice mage was so hunched over that his chest was only a few inches of the ground, but somehow managed to not drop the planks. "S...See...t-take...that...flame brain..."
"Gray-sama is so strong!" Juvia thought, clapping her hand enthusiastically. However, her clapping had alerted Gray. The ice mage turned his head towards the source of the sound, but Juvia had quickly ducked around a corner. The sudden motion of his head caused Gray to drop all the planks he was carrying. "That was close."
"HAHAHA! How pathetic! You see that happy?! The ice princess bit off way more than he could chew!" Natsu exclaimed, as he rolled on the ground laughing.
"Oi, you two!" A stern voice called out, getting both and Gray and Natsu's attention. Both mages turned their head to see Erza, now dressed in a construction uniform, with an annoyed look on her face. "If you have time to mess around, get off your asses and start helping! We've got to fix up the guild as quick as possible!"
"Master is even helping!" Mirajane said in a cheery tone, as she gestured to Makarov behind her. Fairy Tail's master was currently in his giant form, and was putting several large wooden planks in place.
"I'm too hungry to work." Natsu complained, his stomach rumbling to prove his point.
"Yeah, I'm starting to get a little hungry too." Gray said, as he plopped down on a stack of wooden planks. Out of nowhere, a blue blur went running past. Looking down, Gray and Natsu were surprised to see bentos in their laps. "Where did these come from?"
"And who left them?" Natsu asked, unwrapping his bento. The pink-haired dragon slayer's mouth began to water when he saw the plethora of delicious looking food. "This looks so good!" Natsu began to eat some of the food, and his eyes widened. "Holy shit! This is really good!"
"Natsu likes Juvia's cooking!" Juvia thought, as she watched Natsu scarf down the bento she had left him. A slight blush spread across her face when she saw how enthusiastically he was eating it. "Does Gray-sama like his?"
"Are you kidding? I could never eat this." Gray said, pushing the bento away.
"Then can I have it?!" Natsu asked, already finishing his own bento.
"Fine, go ahead!" Gray exclaimed, as he handed the dragon slayer his food.
"Sweet!" Natsu cheered, tearing into the new bento. The dragon slayer stopped inhaling the food momentarily when he felt a strange sensation. "Why do I suddenly want to punch Gray?"
"Juvia's sad. Gray-sama didn't like her food." Juvia thought, as she hung her head. "Juvia woke up extra early to make those." Juvia peaked around the corner again, and saw that Natsu was eating Gray's portion. "At least Natsu likes Juvia's food."
"Natsu...Gray..." A new voice said, getting both mages attention. They were both surprised to see Loke walking towards them. But what really surprised both of them was how weak Loke looked. Natsu's eyes widened when he saw what Loke was carrying. The sunglasses wearing mage was holding up Lucy's celestial spirit keys. "Can you give these...to L-Lucy?"
"Those are Lucy's keys!" Natsu said, as Loke handed them to the dragon slayer. "Man! Luce is gonna be so happy that you found these!"
"Loke...your face. You look really weak man. I haven't seen you for awhile. Have you been looking for these the whole time?" Gray asked, inspecting Loke's exhausted face.
"Yeah...it's tough looking out for the ladies." Loke weakly joked, forcing a smile onto his face.
"We would have helped you if you had asked." Happy said, as he flew up next to Natsu.
"A...Anyway, how's Lucy doing?" Loke asked, deciding to quickly change the subject.
"She's been locked in her room for the past two days." Natsu said, as he crossed his arms over his chest. "She still feels down about what happened, and she wants to be left alone right now. She hasn't let anyone but me into her room."
"I see." Loke said, adjusting his sunglasses.
"Well I better go return these." Natsu said, as he held up Lucy's gate keys. "She's been worried sick ever since she lost these."
"I'm going with you, I want to check up on her too." Gray said, shoving his hand in his pocket.
"Fine, but don't get pissy if she won't let you in." Natsu said, as he turned to face Loke. "You should come too Loke. I bet Luce would love to thank the guy who found her keys."
"It's fine Natsu. I've had some bad experiences with celestial spirit mages." Loke said, rubbing the back of his head.
"Okay then." Natsu said, as he shrugged his shoulders. "Gray you get Erza, and head on ahead to Luce's apartment. I know Erza has been wanting to check up on Lucy."
"When did you become my boss?" Gray asked rhetorically, leaving to get the scarlet-haired knight. When Gray had left, Natsu walked over to a half completed wall. Poking his head around the wall, Natsu wasn't surprised to see Juvia poking her head around the other end of the wall.
"I had a feeling you were here." Natsu's voice caused Juvia to squeak in surprise. The water mage slowly turned around, her face bright red in embarassment. "Why'd you just take off last week Juvia? I didn't even get to say goodbye again."
"Juvia...Juvia didn't want to be a burden. So when Juvia regain consciousness, Juvia snuck out of Phantom Lord's base." Juvia explained, poking her finger together. "A-Also...Juvia didn't want to have to say goodbye."
"Ah, don't worry about it. I'm not mad or anything." Natsu said, as he placed a hand on Juvia's shoulder. "So what are you doing here? You come to join Fairy Tail?"
"N-No..." Juvia replied, as her face began to a darker shade of red. "Juvia...Juvia just wanted to see Gray-sama again?"
"Gray...sama?" Natsu repeated with a confused look on his face. "If you want to see Gray so bad, I can go get him for-"
"No!" Juvia shouted, her eyes widening. "Juvia...Juvia isn't ready to face Gray-sama yet!"
"What's up with this Gray-sama stuff all of a sudden?" Natsu asked, confused now more than ever. "Jeez, it's almost as if you love the guy." However, Natsu stopped when he saw Juvia's blush become even darker. "Wait...you do like Gray?"
"Juvia...Juvia...does like Gray-sama...she wants to try and win his heart." Juvia said, causing Natsu's heart to sink.
"Oh..." Natsu said, his eyes filling with sadness.
"You cannot force her to love you."
"If she wants to pursue another, you must let her."
"All you can do is he patient, and try to win her heart."
"Good things come to those who wait."
"Well then...good luck winning ice princess over." Natsu said, as he forced a large smile on his face. The pink-haired dragon slayer pulled Juvia into a tight hug, before he started running down the street. "Well see you later Juvia! I have to give something to Lucy!"
"Natsu..." Juvia said, clutching a hand over her heart. The sad look in the dragon slayer's eyes wasn't missed by the water mage.
"If she wants to be with Gray, I'll let her. I won't force her to love me." Natsu thought, as he made a beeline for Lucy's apartment. The dragon slayer could feel tears stinging the corners of his eyes, but he quickly wiped them away. "Damn it Gray! You better treat her right!"
(Five Minutes Later; Lucy's Apartment)
"Luce! How is it going!" Natsu said, climbing in through Lucy's window. The pink-haired dragon was hoping to see his mate, so that he could take his mind off Juvia. But when Natsu entered Lucy's apartment, he found it empty except for Gray and Erza. "Is Luce not here?" As Natsu walked towards his nakama, he noticed a pile of letters scattered on the floor. Picking one up, Natsu quickly scanned through the letter. "It's a letter to Luce's mom..." Looking up, Natsu was surprised to see that Erza had a particular note in her hand. The scarlet-haired knight's fingers digging into the paper. "Hey, what's up Erza?"
"This note." Erza replied, as she handed Natsu the small piece of paper. "Lucy says she's heading home."
"Huh?" Natsu said, taking the short note from Erza's hand. The note simply read 'I'm heading home.' Natsu's brow furrowed as he read the note over several times.
"She must still feel responsible." Happy said, as he landed on Natsu's head.
"What the hell is she thinking?" Gray said, tightly clenching his fists. "We have to go after her! To her home, and bring her back!"
"I agree with Gray." Erza said, as she nodded her head. "We can't let Lucy leave."
"You guys are overreacting." Natsu said, crumbling up the letter and tossing it away. Erza and Gray's shot open, as they watched Natsu relax in one of Lucy's chairs.
"Natsu! How are you not freaking out right now?!" Gray exclaimed, as he stormed over to the dragon slayer. "You basically attacked the magical council when they arrested Erza! And that was only a formality!"
"Yeah, I half expected you to be running after as soon as you read that letter." Erza said, narrowing her eyes at Natsu. "What's going on?"
"I bet it's Macao again. Natsu used him to trick us when the magical council arrested you." Gray said, as he suddenly slapped Natsu across the face. But to Gray's surprise instead of Macao there was a pissed off dragon slayer.
"Fuck you ice princess!" Natsu roared, punching Gray in the face. The pink-haired dragon slayer huffed, and rubbed his red cheek. "Now, do you both really think Luce would just run off like that? I bet she's going to tell off her dad, and then she'll come right back."
"I...didn't think of that. Wow, that actually makes a lot of sense." Erza said, as she leaned against a wall. "So what do we do?"
"Well we should still go after her." Natsu said, causing Erza to quirk a scarlet eyebrow. "We may not need to drag her back, but Luce is still gonna need our support once this over. So I want to be there right after she finishes things with her father." Natsu stood up from the chair he was sitting in, and walked back over to the window. "Gather your things, I'll meet you guys at the train station in a half-hour." Seeing Erza nod, Natsu jumped to the street below. "Besides, I have to give Lucy's dad a piece of my mind too."
And done! The Phantom Lord arc is now technically over! Next chapter will have Lucy confront her father, hopefully the NaLu lemon, and all the stuff regarding Loke being a celestial spirit. Then after that we can get into the Tower of Heaven arc, and some NatZa goodness. I know some of you are confused as to why Erza isn't the first mate, and that will be explained in the Tower of Heaven arc. So you won't have to wait too long. Sadly, this is the last quick update chapter, so you'll have to wait a little while for the next chapter. So what did you guys think? Love it? Hate it? Don't care? Let me know! Remember to follow/favorite, PLEASE REVIEW, I NEED YOUR FEEDBACK, and PM me any ideas you might have for any of my fics. So until next time, I'm outta here!