"Speech"
'Thought'
"Attack/beast"
Chapter 6. Prices
Taking a deep breath, Naruto hesitated ever so slightly as he stood at the doors to the Fairy Tail guild. Currently the blond was wearing his usual toad mask that he received from Jiraiya to conceal his true identity, but his choice of clothing took a slight change. For his upper torso, Naruto wore a sleeveless dark blue shirt that hugged his frame, but with his arms exposed it allowed anyone to see the fresh burns and scars that covered both his arms. Then in addition Naruto wore a pair of matching dark blue pants with a white belt that he used to attach his newly acquired sword onto.
"It's best to just get this over with." Naruto mumbled as he placed his hands onto the doors and listened to the noise coming from the other side. Telling the blond that things were at least somewhat normal. However, as he pushed the doors open the noise became even louder and Naruto was met with the faces of several Fairy Tail wizards.
"Big brother!" Wendy cried loudly as Naruto had no time to even move before the Dragon Slayer barreled into him for a hug.
Naruto, feeling the small wizard grip tightly onto his torso, smiled under his mask. "Glad to see you kiddo." Naruto whispered softly before he watched Wendy look up and notice his arms.
"What happened to you!" Wendy cried as she saw the wounds on her older brother figure, while a small crowd started to form around Naruto and Wendy.
Naruto placed his hands on Wendy's shoulders and noticed people like Erza, Gray, Natsu and so many others looking at him for answers. Even Carla and Happy floated over his head with concern covering their small features.
"I made some mistakes that I don't plan on making again." Naruto replied softly.
"Well, what happened?" Natsu asked loudly, which did make Naruto glance at the fire wizard. Noticing Lisanna giving him a sour look.
"Natsu don't be rude."
"Yeah Flame Brain. Laxus and Evergreen haven't talked about what happened to anyone besides the Master. Don't push the guy when he just got back." Gray added in annoyance.
"Trust me there isn't much to talk about." Naruto began as now he was already back to using half truths to those around him.
"All the same it's good to have you back Menma." Erza spoke up in a respectful tone. "We were all worried for you."
Naruto nodded. "I'm happy to be back. Is the Master here?"
"He is, but you just got back. Stay and at least talk to us." Wendy cried out showing the deep concern she still held for Naruto's well being.
Ruffling Wendy's hair, Naruto took a few steps forward. "I promise we will talk plenty. Right now I need to apologize to the master."
Wendy, frowning as she watched Naruto head in the direction of Makarov's office, stayed silent, but the soft hands of Erza made her look over her shoulder. Finding the older wizard looking at her with a soft expression.
"Just give him some time and space Wendy. He obviously needs it." The scarlet haired knight whispered.
"Yeah you're right."
Over with Naruto, the Ghost of Fairy Tail pressed his way through the door to Makarov's office, which allowed the boy to see the elderly man busy at his desk. Yet his normal kind and gentle features looked exhausted and severely sleep deprived, which showed Naruto even more the effects his actions held of the people within his life. So closing the door, Naruto simply used a sound dampening spell to avoid anyone hearing their conversation.
"Master." Naruto began softly as he took a few steps into the office and collapsed onto the ground. His strong persona finally breaking as he bowed his head to the man in tears. "I'm so sorry."
Hearing no response and only footsteps, Naruto suddenly felt a comforting embrace as the older man gave him a strong hug.
"My child I'm so glad you're safe." Makarov declared with weakness behind his voice. "My heart already hurts. I couldn't stomach losing more of my children."
"Master I-. . ."
"You don't have to say anything, my boy. Laxus already told me everything. He told me the burden you carried and the things you were forced into doing to save our family."
"I shouldn't have taken that mission."
"And I should have told you about your Father's family. Maybe that would have avoided all of this. Though now you know that Minato is from Alvarez and that your Uncle is a very dangerous person."
Naruto tightened his fists. "I hate that man so much, Master."
Makarov nodded and watched Naruto stand to his feet and remove his mask. "I hate the torment he put me through. I hate how he looks just like my dad. I hate how we share the same last name and blood. I hate how he threatened Lucy so many times and how he insulted my mother. I hate him so much I want to go back there just to kill him myself."
Makarov sighed and closed his eyes. "Naruto, you and I both know you can't do that. Laxus told me how that man the moment he started to try instantly out classed the both of you with his magic. A terrifying feat, as I know both you and Laxus are exceptional young wizards. I would even say by description this Arashi rivals Minato in strength."
"Don't get me wrong Master. I have no plans to rush back over to Alvarez any time soon. I still have business here in Ishgar to deal with."
"But you want to go back? Why? For some petty revenge? Naruto, my child let it go and we can move on from this."
"I've figured out my father's mission, Master." Naruto whispered softly as he glanced at the older wizard with his Sharingan spinning to life. "And I've decided to follow in his footsteps."
"Naruto all I know of your Father's mission is that he's searching for some lost magic. Even Jiraiya has no clue what your Father is really up to. What do you actually know?"
"He's out to kill Zeref." Naruto revealed with conviction behind his words. "My Grandfather Madara told me everything. It's what even Laxus doesn't know, but the Emperor of Alvarez is none other than Zeref himself. My grandfather failed to kill him and save our people. My father has been searching for a way to kill him and has failed. However, I will kill that man and avenge my family."
Makarov shook his head. "You realize how insane this all sounds? If the Emperor really is Zeref that man's power is that of legends. He's the single most powerful dark wizard in history."
"And that's something I'm well aware of. I'm going to train my body and magic. Search the lands for answers. Then when the time is right. I will kill Zeref."
"You're absolutely set on this."
"I am Master. I've accepted this road and even pushed Lucy away to keep her safe. Eventually I'll do the same with everyone else like Wendy and the rest of the guild. I won't bring them into this fight. I'll fully become the Ghost of Fairy Tail."
"I refuse." Makarov replied with a stern tone that caught Naruto off guard.
"What?"
"You heard me. I refuse." Makarov declared loudly as he folded his arms in disapproval. "I don't care who you hate or who you plan to kill for some nearsighted vendetta. I refuse to watch another one of my beloved children fall down the same path like Minato did."
"Master, with all respect. That isn't your choice to make. It's mine."
"And you're one of my children. It's my job to guide and protect you. As such I'm not allowing you to pull away from anyone. I'm even half tempted to end this whole Menma act as is. I know you're only keeping it going so Lucy won't come searching for you."
"Master I-. . ."
"You're not becoming your father!" Makarov yelled loudly as he slightly spiked his magical power. "Do you understand me?"
"Master Zeref is a danger to everyone!"
"He wasn't a danger a few weeks ago was he? Or a year ago? Let the man play his game in Alvarez."
"His demon took my mother from me." Naruto snapped in anger.
"And yet that's never been an issue before."
"What if more demons come for the guild? Or Lucy? Or anyone I care about?"
"Then you protect them. Not run off and chase a never ending quest. We've had this talk before! You protect those you love by being in their life. Not avoiding them for convenience!"
Gripping his fists tightly with built-in aggression filling his entire body, Naruto was about to explode. Yet he quickly deflated and lowered his shoulders.
"Master, I don't know what to do anymore." Naruto whispered at his breaking point. "I have all of this rage and fear swirling around me and it feels like my life is pulling me in all these different directions."
Makarov closed his eyes and sighed. "One is never meant to fully understand everything in life. You'd go mad trying to do so, but one thing you never do is go alone. Let me help you, my boy."
Naruto's eyes snapping to their normal crystal blue color the Ghost of Fairy Tail fell onto his knees and started to cry. "Master, please help me."
Makarov placing his hand behind Naruto's head pulled the boy he saw as his very own into his shoulder. Allowing the boy to cry into him as he kept a strong composure. "Of course my child. From today onward let's not focus on the Anima, Alvarez Empire or even your Father. Let's work towards making Naruto of Fairy Tail the best version of himself."
"With all respect, Master. I don't think I'm ready to be Naruto around everyone else. I still don't know if I can walk away from everything I know about Alvarez and Zeref. Hell I can't even talk to Gray without thinking about my Mother. I don't think I could ever be myself around the guild anytime soon."
Makarov nodded. "Well then at least let Menma know some of his fellow Fairy Tail wizards a little more. Everything else can come in time."
"I can do that master."
Makarov smiled softly, losing members of his family was never easy and he was still mourning both Bickslow and Freed. Still the short Wizard Saint had to be strong in order to protect those who were still in need of him.
"Good. Then let's go see everyone. I'm sure they are all worried about you."
(Later at Naruto's Apartment)
Staggering his way into the place he called home, Naruto felt like he had been in a year-long death march with no end in sight. Yet the moment he removed his sword and placed the blade onto his coffee table. Naruto felt completely at peace and fell backwards onto his couch. Sinking into the furniture and allowing his thoughts to drift to everything that has happened to him. Meanwhile his hand swiped his mask and allowed the item to shimmer off into his requip space.
"I just need a few moments to rest." Naruto mumbled as he closed his eyes and tried to get some peace.
Naruto knew he was in desperate need of a good rest and tomorrow would be quite difficult. Since Makarov had informed the entire guild about Bickslow and Freed's demise. Setting both boys to have a memorial and funeral tomorrow. Something that Naruto was dreading, but he knew he owed both boys to be there to show his respect.
"You're an interesting boy." A gentle and kind voice spoke softly into Naruto's ear, which instantly caused alarm.
Naruto being on edge quickly opened his eyes and sprang forward with his legs trampling through ankle high snow.
"What the hell!" Naruto yelled as he realized he was no longer in the safety of his apartment, but rather in the middle of an open snow covered plain. Having absolutely nothing in sight for miles except for white snow and the rather dreary gray sky over his head.
"There is no need for alarm." The voice spoke again from behind, which made Naruto spin on his heels. "You're in no danger here."
Naruto finding a pale woman with icy blue eyes and long lavender hair looking directly at him. The young wizard couldn't help himself from being slightly on edge, as the woman seemed harmless. Yet his sudden shift in surroundings was enough to place some form of worry in Naruto's mind.
"Who are you?" Naruto snapped in response, which did earn a laugh from the woman.
"Why ask a question you already know the answer to?" The woman began before slowly moving her left hand to the yellow obi that was tied around her white kimono. "But if you're confused. Maybe this will help you."
Naruto's eyes grew wide as he watched Sode no Shirayuki manifest itself to be tucked under the woman's obi.
"Wait? Are you Sode no Shirayuki?"
"It's a pleasure to meet you formally, Naruto Namikaze." Sode no Shirayuki began softly as a friendly smile flashed across her soft features.
"How is this even possible? I'm talking to a sword."
"I'm just as much of a sword as your little friend's spirits are their keys."
"Wait? So you're a Celestial Spirit?"
"Not exactly. The Celestial Spirits come from the Celestial Spirit World. I come from the Soul Spirit World, which makes me a Soul Spirit."
Naruto blinked. "Don't take this the wrong way, but what's the difference?"
"Well besides dwelling in different domains of existence. Soul Spirits do function quite similarly to Celestial Spirits. Yet we differ on many different levels. For example your friend Lucy has her gate keys that she uses in order to summon her Celestial Spirits into battle. Meanwhile we Soul Spirits have our Zanpakutō that we use in order to make a contract with our wizards."
Naruto lifted his brow. "But I've used your Zanpak-thingy without making a contract."
"Zanpakutō." The Soul Spirit corrected with a light giggle. "And how you've used my sword is the equivalent of your friend Lucy running around and jabbing people with her keys. Trust me Naruto. You haven't even seen my power yet. After all, your Grandfather failed to completely mention why he couldn't use my power."
"He said you were picky."
"He only says that because I refused a contract with him."
"Why? You had one with my Grandmother right?"
"You're correct in your assumption, as I and your Grandmother Rukia did have a contract. However, I wasn't a fan of Madara. So I refused him a contract. However, you remind me of your Grandmother who was someone I cherished dearly. So I would like to extend you a contact."
Naruto was slightly surprised by the Spirit's words, as he knew his grandfather was powerful. "So you want to fight alongside me?"
"Again that's how we differ from Celestial Spirits. We do not summon our form into your world for battle. Instead we bind our power into your very soul. Giving you our abilities, but at a cost of course."
"What do you mean by cost?"
"That depends on the Soul Spirit creating the contract, as there are hundreds of different Zanpakutō scattered throughout your world. So each contract is unique and comes with its own price."
Naruto lifted his brow and studied the spirit before him. "And what's your price?"
"I want your Light Magic." Sode no Shirayuki replied with a straight face.
"Huh? What do you mean by wanting my magic?"
"It's exactly like it sounds like Naruto. If you take my contract you shall gain the ability to use and master my powers, but in return I'll take your ability to use Light Magic. Meaning for as long as our contract is held you won't be able to wield any form of Light Magic. Of course I'll allow you to keep your Rune and Eye Magic."
"That's a steep price to pay."
"Those are the types of prices you must pay with a Soul Spirit, but the price is always worth it."
Naruto frowned and folded his arms. "So I'll be stronger than I currently am?"
"With some practice you'll reach heights in power you'd never even imagined. As I can grant you many abilities, but most prominently you'll eventually reach a form of power only a Soul Spirit can grant. A Bankai."
Naruto thought over his options, as giving up a portion of his power he spent years mastering was a steep price to pay. Yet he could live without his Light Magic and even more so it would separate him further from his father. Something that Naruto didn't mind in the slightest, as he wanted to start making his own path. Not constantly repeating what his father had already done.
"Fine. I'll accept your contract." Naruto declared boldly, which made Sode no Shirayuki smile and grab the sword at her hip.
"Then upon agreeing to my terms. I Sode No Shirayuki bind my soul to you Naruto Namikaze and shall become your Zanpakutō!"
(The following day)
Gathered in a group at the Magnolia cemetery. The entire Fairy Tail guild stood in silence in respect for the two empty graves for both Bickslow and Freed. Naruto himself stood off to the edge by himself and simply kept one hand gripped tightly onto Sode no Shirayuki's Zanpakutō. Yet as Naruto stood away from the rest of his mourning guildmates he did notice a presence joining his side. That of course being Laxus Dreyar. Who merely stood in silence by Naruto's side.
"I wish we could have saved them." Laxus mumbled softly to where only Naruto could hear.
Naruto merely nodded and noticed Evergreen standing near Elfman. The latter of whom was actually giving the grieving girl some support. "I was never close with Bickslow or Freed like you were. Still I'd give anything to have them back home."
"It's up to us you know."
Naruto glancing sideways at the lightning scarred teen raised his brow with interest. "To do what exactly?"
"Honor their memory and ensure our guild is protected." Laxus replied softly as he folded his arms and clicked his teeth. "They will be the last ones taken from us."
Naruto closed his eyes and sighed. "If you're talking about going for revenge. The old man already talked me out of it for the moment."
"No."
"Then what are you getting at?" Naruto asked sharply.
"I love this guild Na-Menma. It's my home and my family. I want to protect Fairy Tail and everyone that's a member. Taking that mission made me realize that, but it also showed me how helpless I was."
"I share those feelings."
Laxus, placing a hand on Naruto's shoulders, looked at the masked blond with determination. "Then let's form a team. Me and you. We will push Fairy Tail to new fame and become the guardians that protect everyone. We won't have another Freed or Bickslow if we can help it."
"We won't be able to protect everyone. That's not possible."
"And why should that stop us from trying?"
"Two people isn't much of a team. More of a duo."
"I'm sure Wendy, Evergreen and even your little friend Mystogan would join as well."
"You're really set on this aren't you?"
"More than you know."
Naruto simply nodded his head and merely held his fist outward. "For Bickslow and Freed. I'd be willing to try. Anything less would be a disgrace for their sacrifice."
Laxus bumping his own fist against Naruto's gave the blond a look of pure determination. "Let's make them proud."
(Three years later. X781 Naruto Age 14)
Sitting on the edge of a cliff with his legs dangling in the air, Naruto looked through his mask to the place he used to call home with a somber expression.
"I can't really figure you out, Naruto." Laxus grumbled from behind which made the masked teenager sigh.
Glancing over his shoulder to find Laxus standing with his back to a tree and his arms crossed. Naruto fought the urge to roll his eyes at his fellow blond.
"And I didn't ask you to follow me." Naruto snapped back in an annoyed voice that made Laxus laugh and shake his head.
"How many times do you have to sneak over here?" Laxus asked with a smirk as he took a seat right beside Naruto.
"I'm checking up on the runes." Naruto explained in a soft voice, which made Laxus scoff.
"Yeah sure. For the sixth time this month."
"Shouldn't you be with Wendy, Carla and Ever?"
"They're fine, but wondering where you disappeared off too. Said I'd come find you before they come looking."
"I appreciate that."
Laxus wrapping an arm around Naruto's neck pulled the younger wizard into a headlock and buried his free fist into Naruto's spiky hair.
"Seriously what's up with this thick head you've got? Taking missions to come near her, but doing everything in your power to avoid her." Laxus began as Naruto broke free and shoved the boy back. "And don't even say something stupid like you're afraid to place her in danger. It's been three years since Alvarez. She's been safe for three years. We have been safe at the guild for three years. It's time to move on."
Naruto grumbled in response. "I should have never told you about Lucy."
"And yet here we are."
"Listen Laxus. I care more for Lucy than anything else. I want her to live a happy and safe life." Naruto began as he removed his mask and his somber face gazed out onto the Heartfilia estate in the distance. "Being near me guarantees one of two things. She would either be living in fear of my Uncle and the Alvarez Empire coming for us. Or the alternative being having to deal with what my Mom dealt with. Hiding away while my Dad fought back against the Empire. That's a life I don't want her to have."
Laxus lifted his brow. "So you're satisfied with being out of her life?"
"If that meant she was safe. Then yes. I don't care if my Uncle knows where to find me or that it's been three years since Alvarez. I can't in good conscience be around Lucy knowing the possible danger I bring. So for now and forever I will avoid her."
"Even if she despised you? Or even found someone else to love?" Laxus asked which struck a nerve with Naruto, as his Mankeyō Sharingan flashed to life for only a brief moment.
"Again her happiness is the only thing I care about." Naruto mumbled as his eyes shifted back to their normal blue hue.
"You might be in S-class now, but you've still got a lot to learn." Laxus replied as he shook his head. "Have you ever taken into account what Lucy wants?"
"Spare me Laxus. You start hanging around Mirajane and all of a sudden you're a relationship guru."
The lightning scarred boy laughed at the jab directed at him. "And you, my friend, are dodging my question."
"You can try all you want Laxus, but when it comes to Lucy I've made my mind up." Naruto explained in a stern tone before standing to his feet.
"Well maybe I'll head down there and tell little Lucy about my friend Menma. I'm sure she would love to know his real name."
Naruto glaring at the smirking teenager wasn't amused in the slightest. "I'd almost be pissed at you, but I've got barrier runes in place. So unless you're a Rune Magic master. I don't think you'd be talking to anyone."
"Man you're a headache!" Laxus groaned as he stood up and started to stretch his muscles. "But you're my closest friend in the guild. I might not agree with your choices, but I'll at least respect them."
Naruto smiled and held tightly onto his mask. "Thanks Laxus."
Laxus smirked and patted his fellow wizard on the shoulder. "Come on. Let's go find the girls before they start to worry."
Giving one final look over the Heartfilia estate, Naruto merely placed his mask back onto his face before following Laxus.
(X782 Naruto age 15)
Funerals, Naruto was sick of them. It started with his sister and mother. Then came Layla. Shortly followed by Freed and Bickslow, but now the blond was joined by his fellow wizards to mourn the loss of Lisanna.
A loss that came out of nowhere that no one expected, but much like Bickslow and Freed. There was no body to bury.
Naruto took his usual spot within the back of the group. Merely observing from a distance as the master spoke kind words regarding the member of the family who was lost. Mirajane was of course an absolute mess and Naruto as someone who had lost plenty thought about consoling the girl. However, as he saw Laxus by her side. Naruto knew she was in good hands.
Even Elfman who at one point had helped Evergreen during the loss of Bickslow and Freed was having the kindness returned. Since Naruto watched his fellow teammate comfort the boy who blamed himself for his sister's death.
Yet as Naruto looked around he noticed one single constant, which was the absence of Natsu and Happy. Something that Naruto found rather out of place, as every other member of the guild was present for the funeral. Mystogan included. Who was off even further in the distance than Naruto.
Still Naruto couldn't help himself from thinking about the absence of Natsu and Happy. Considering it was fairly common knowledge that both Dragon Slayer and his talking cat were closer to Lisanna than anyone else.
'You can sense him right? You've gotten rather talented at feeling for someone's soul.' Sode no Shirayuki began through Naruto's mind, as she could feel the very concerns moving throughout his own soul.
'Yeah he's not too far away from here. Him and Happy both seem to be near the western forest.' Naruto replied in thought.
'Will you seek him out?'
'And why would I?'
'You know just as well as I do how much that girl meant to him.'
'I'm aware, but I'm not exactly close with Natsu.'
'That can easily be changed. You refuse to talk to most, especially your mother's former student. So at least try making friends with someone besides Laxus.'
'Or someone else can talk to him.'
'Seems everyone else is too busy here.'
'So they become my responsibility?'
'I'd just imagine being in his shoes. What if Lucy was the one we were placing to rest? I'm sure you would need a friend to talk with.'
'Alright I get it. I'll go talk to the idiot.' Naruto thought back before taking a single step backwards. Then within a fraction of a second his entire body silently blurred in a burst of speed before vanishing completely from the sight of the funeral.
Dashing and vanishing throughout Magnolia, Naruto was practically a spector moving across the town. Still with impressive speed and technique, Naruto wasted absolutely zero time making his way to Natsu. Quickly blurring behind the Dragon Slayer and his cat. Both of whom were kneeling over a makeshift hut that looked like it was made by children.
"So this is where you disappeared off too." Naruto mumbled softly, which instantly alerted Natsu and Happy of his presence.
"Menma! What are you doing here?" Natsu screamed loudly as he pointed at the masked blond.
'Perhaps this is a time for Naruto to speak. Not Menma.'
Naruto looking at Natsu and Happy paused at the advice given to him. 'I don't see what difference it would make.'
'Of course you don't. That's why I'm suggesting it.'
'You're meddling too much Shirayuki.'
'Only when it's needed. So do us both a favor and listen to my advice.'
Naruto sighing and removing his mask instantly caught both Happy and Natsu by complete shock. Since they saw what so many people yearned to see, which was the face that belonged to the Ghost of Fairy Tail. Still as they looked at his features. Both were surprised by the dull and lifeless gaze that filled his bright crystal blue eyes.
"Checking on you idiots." Naruto explained in a serious voice as his mask vanished into his requip space. "I noticed you were missing from the funeral."
"Oh is that right?" Natsu huffed before folding his arms and moving his attention away from Naruto. "Well that grave wasn't good enough anyway."
Happy looking up at Naruto with tears in his eyes tried to keep strong. "Thanks for coming to see us, Menma."
Naruto sighed and placed a hand on the top of Happy's head and gave the cat a small rub to comfort him. "I've lost a lot of people you know. My mom, my big sister and even a woman who loved me like her own child. So trust me when I say that I recognize what you're going through."
Natsu taking a second to look over his shoulder found himself looking at the mysterious S-class wizard in a whole new light. "I never knew that."
Naruto chuckled under his breath. "I'm not exactly one to share with others. The master and Laxus have both chastised me over the years for that. It's dangerous to be around me or know my past. It's why I wear a mask and use a fake name."
"Wait fake name!" Natsu and Happy yelled in unison, which made Naruto smirk.
"What? Do you think I go around wearing a mask and don't use a fake name? Man you two are a couple of idiots."
'Be polite Naruto.'
Rolling his eyes, Naruto merely thought back. 'Trust me I'm trying.'
"Well I don't even care about your stupid name! I'll just keep calling you Menma! What do you think about that Menma!?"
Naruto, already regretting his choices. Took a deep sigh under his breath at Natsu's words. "I truly couldn't care less, but I wanted to check on you. After all, you're experiencing my greatest fear in life."
"Oh and what's that?"
"Losing the woman you love." Naruto replied in a serious voice as he folded his arms and loomed over Natsu. "It's a pain I never wish to experience and I'm truly sorry you lost Lisanna."
Natsu being shocked to his core could only look at Naruto with disbelief. "How did you know?"
"Please you couldn't have made it any more obvious if you wanted."
Natsu lowered his shoulders in defeat. "But I never told her how I felt."
Naruto sighed. "If it's any sort of consolation. It was fairly obvious she held feelings for you as well."
"It still hurts." Natsu mumbled softly as he gripped tightly onto his chest. "I miss her so much."
Naruto sighed and took a seat by Natsu's side with Happy taking a spot between them. "I know nothing I can say will fill that void, but if you need someone to talk with. I'll be here and that goes for you as well. Happy."
"Thank you!" Both the Dragon Slayer and cat replied with tears in their eyes.
"There isn't a need for a thank you." Naruto began as he stood up to his feet with a sly grin. "And also when we are around others please call me Menma, but when we are alone. My name is Naruto."
(X783 Naruto age 16)
Seated at a circular table within the guild, Naruto merely sighed as the loud voice by his side wouldn't stop.
"Come on, let's fight!"
"No Natsu."
"Take a mission!"
"No Natsu."
"Beat up Gray!"
"Go away Natsu!" Naruto groaned as he tossed his head back in frustration.
"Oh come on Menma! I promise it will be fun!" Natsu tried to argue, while Happy poked his way around his partner's shoulder.
"I don't think he's gonna say yes Natsu."
"Nonsense Happy! He's about to crack!"
Naruto rolled his eyes and rested his glare directly at Natsu. "Yeah, crack your skull."
"So you wanna fight!" Natsu chuckled with excitement.
"You're testing my last nerve, Natsu."
"Heh that's the plan!" The Dragon Slayer replied before he started to shadow box with his fists coated in flames.
Naruto glared at his friend with his Mankeyō Sharingan peeking through the holes in his mask. Yet before Naruto could do anything the cheerful voice of Wendy made herself known.
"Big bro check this out!" The young wizard shouted before Naruto watched the girl slam a magazine onto the table.
"Sorcerer's Weekly?" Naruto grumbled in an annoyed voice. "Isn't that the magazine Mira has been stripping for?"
"She's been modeling." Wendy corrected in a stern voice. "And better hope Laxus didn't hear that comment."
"Nah he'd probably laugh." Naruto replied with a snicker as he grabbed the magazine. "But that's not important. Why bring me this?"
"Well there is an article about you!" Wendy announced as Carla perched herself onto the Sky Dragon Slayer's shoulder.
"Which is an article I don't understand in the slightest."
Naruto narrowed his eyes on the talking cat. "Why do I feel like that was an insult?"
"Because it was."
Wendy sighed. "Carla stop and big bro just open the magazine to page 16."
Naruto nodded and slightly raised his brow at the article he found. "Top bachelors of the Wizarding community?"
Wendy giggled with anticipation and nodded. "That's the one!"
Scanning through the names and pictures, Naruto found some familiar faces like Loke from the guild and even someone who appeared to be Jellal's Earthland counterpart.
"Loke seems popular as usual. Then there is Hibiki from Blue Pegasus, Bacchus from Quatro Cerberus and Menma from. . . Wait I'm on this fucking list!" Naruto yelled loudly as he saw a picture of himself wearing his mask. "Why am I on this list!"
"That's what I was saying!" Carla chimed in.
"Oh come on big bro! You're an S-class wizard that hardly nobody knows what you look like. Girls love the strong mysterious type."
"Well I don't see Mystogan on this list!" Naruto roared in annoyance as he pointed to the magazine.
"Well you have to admit he takes extra effort to stay out of the spotlight." Wendy countered.
"And I don't?"
"Not really."
Natsu, snatching the magazine, laughed as he started to glance over the article. "They even have a reward for getting a picture of your face without the mask! Wanna help me make some quick cash?"
Naruto folded his arms. "You'd have an easier time completing an S-class quest."
Natsu smirked and tossed the magazine onto the table. "More like I'd have an easier time convincing you to take a mission with me!"
"Aw, why won't you take a quest with Natsu?"
"Well besides him being a destructive pain in my ass? I'm a very busy person."
Wendy rolled her eyes. "You don't look that busy."
"Please, I've got missions lined up for an entire year!"
"Now that sounds like a lie." Carla chimed in.
"You think everything I say is a lie Carla."
"With good reason."
"Well if you're so busy Menma. Promise to take a mission with me and Natsu in one year! No questions asked." Happy purposed in a rather upbeat tone.
"Yeah what Happy said! In one year! We go on one mission! No questions asked!" Natsu added with a wide grin.
"If you stop pestering me everyday then fine. I'll take a mission with you in exactly one year." Naruto grumbled in an annoyed voice, while both Happy and Natsu's eyes lit up with excitement.
"Hell ye-. . ." Natsu began before his head slammed hard onto the table.
Naruto watching Wendy, Carla and Happy all collapse into an unconscious sleep felt a small shiver of magic run along his body. Yet as Naruto leaned back into his chair he scanned the guild and saw every single member completely unconscious and on the floor asleep. Leaving only Naruto and the culprit behind the sleep spell in any sort of consciousness.
"Welcome back home Jellal." Naruto chuckled with a slight smirk as he removed his mask to look at the disguised boy walking in his direction. Yet Naruto was slightly interested to find his friend from another world hadn't changed much, but had an unfamiliar sword strapped onto his backside. Something that was out of place, as Jellal preferred magical staffs.
"Naruto. Glad to see you're doing well." Jellal replied as he kept his own disguise over his face.
"Grabbing another mission?"
"Yes, but I wanted to speak with you."
"It's been a couple months hasn't it? Got something you need help with?"
Removing his sword and placing it onto the table, Jellal nodded. "I wanted your opinion on this."
Naruto glancing over a katana laid out before him. Took notice to the bronze guard that separated the blade from the lavender colored hilt. Yet the blade itself was sheathed away into a white sheath and Naruto couldn't tell what condition the weapon was in. Or as to why Jella wanted to show him this particular sword.
'It's another Zanpakutō Naruto.'
His eyes growing wide at Sode no Shirayuki's voice within his head could only look at his friend with wide eyes. "You're aware of what that is?"
Jellal nodded. "A Zanpakutō. Much like the one you have."
"Have you made a contract with it?" Naruto asked almost instantly, which caused Jellal to shake his head.
"I haven't. The price the Spirit of this blade asked wasn't one I was willing to make."
Naruto folded his arms and nodded. "Prices for a Zanpakutō contract are normally very high. I had to give up my ability to use Light Magic, but the abilities I gained were worth the price in the end. What was your offer?"
"To forfeit my right as heir to the throne of Edolas and to never live within Edolas another day in my life."
Naruto blinked and quickly shook his head. "Wait, are you serious?"
"Yes, which is why I've been. Apprehensive to take the deal."
"Still you have this Zanpakutō with you. Are you debating on taking the deal?"
"I've seen you display your Zanpakutō's powers before. I know they are frightening and should not be allowed into just anyone's hands. So I've kept it with me for at least an option. Unless you would like this blade?"
'Absolutely not. I'm the one in contract with you. No one else.'
Naruto smirked and hoisted Sode no Shirayuki up for Jellal to see. "Sorry, but it seems like Shirayuki isn't very keen on sharing me with any other spirit."
Jellal nodded. "I figured as much, but I wanted to at least offer. You're the only person I would trust with this kind of power."
"I appreciate that Jellal and I'm sorry I couldn't help you any."
Standing to his feet and placing the Zanpakutō back onto his back, Jellal simply waved his long time friend off. "It's fine Naruto. You've helped me in more ways than you could imagine. So don't worry about this."
Watching Jellal walk over to the request board, Naruto merely placed Sode no Shirayuki back onto his hip. "All the same you need to stop being a stranger so often. Come join me and Laxus on a few missions every now and then."
Making his way in the direction of the guild's exit, Jellal gave a nod of farwell. "I just might."
Hearing the sound of people waking from their sleep spell, Naruto simply stood to his feet and placed his mask back over his face. "Best to disappear before Natsu starts pestering me again."
(X784 Naruto age 17)
Feeling the bump of the train across the tracks, Naruto could only look at the half dead Dragon Slayer sitting across him with disappointment.
"You're telling me that you want to participate in the S-class trials this year and yet you can't even handle simple transportation?" Naruto asked in complete disbelief at the sight before him.
"Aye sir!"
Tossing his head backwards and groaning, Naruto debated on just flying Natsu to their destination with his Susanoo. Since at least that way he could finish this mission a little faster.
"And to make matters worse we aren't even taking an actual mission! You blew your one mission deal to track down some rumors on Igneel. Like come on Natsu? Why would a dragon be in the middle of a fucking town?"
"Oh come on. It won't hurt to look! Besides, you took the deal last year and you agreed to no questions asked!" Happy pointed out with a light chuckle.
"Which is the only reason I'm even showing up to this monumental waste of my time." Naruto countered in a rather annoyed tone. "I'm a man of my word."
Natsu grumbling something in pain from his motion sickness made Happy sigh at his partner's condition. "Though I would agree, taking a train wasn't our best choice of transportation. Natsu isn't looking too good."
Naruto nodded and glared at the Dragon Slayer through the holes in his mask. "Honestly at this point I'm glad he's miserable. I offered to fly us all, but he had to throw a fit. Saying some childish nonsense that he was the leader of this mission."
"Aye, that's Natsu for you."
Taking Sode no Shirayuki against his torso and glancing out the train's window, Naruto closed his eyes and reached outward with his magic. "I'm sensing a large cluster of souls anyhow. So we should be approaching Hargeon anytime now."
"And then the mission to find Igneel begins!"
"I have the slightest feeling this will be a very short and disappointing quest."
"You never know Naruto! This quest might just change your life!"
Naruto scoffed at the talking cat and moved his eyes away from the window and looked at his traveling companions. "I highly doubt that Happy."
"Well we will just wait and see! I bet you'll eat those words!" Happy countered in a cheerful tone, while Natsu mumbled something in agreement.
Shaking his head and laughing at the pair, Naruto replied with the response that unknowingly jinxed his entire life moving forward. "Trust me, Happy. Nothing life changing is going to come from Hargeon Town."
(Chapter End)
Another chapter done and now to discuss a few things that I wanted to touch up on for the story going forward.
Why is Naruto still Menma? Short answer so people like Lucy and Gray don't know who he is.
Why has Naruto shown himself to people like Natsu and Happy, but not Lucy or Gray? I touched on the Lucy reason, as he wants her to be happy in life and not make the same mistakes as his father did with his mom. Gray I'll focus more on later, but the main reason is it's been too hard for Naruto to be himself with gray with their history and Gray's involvement in Ur's sacrifice. So he's just avoided him over the years and been distant and accepted that distance.
Is Naruto just going to ignore Zeref and Alvarez? I wanted to show Naruto being conflicted and contrast the difference between what Madara wanted him to do vs Makarov. Naruto very much has a lot of confusion and will switch with what he wants to do going forward, but Makarov and others have been helping him over the years and that help will continue forward. Still with Lucy coming into the story and guild things are gonna get messy.
What powers has Sode no Shirayuki given Naruto? I've sorta shown a few this chapter, but with arcs that involve fighting you'll see more.
More Zanpakutō's? If I'm introducing them as this alternative magic that mirrors gate keys. I've decided to give other characters Zanpakutō's to change power dynamics with some characters to make arcs more interesting. Since I'm changing things drastically with a few arcs. Like how Naruto and Laxus are friends. Meaning the arc where Laxus tries to take over the guild won't happen. Meaning that arc will be replaced with a new arc I have in mind.
Anyhow I've skipped around and shown most of what I've wanted to show before the main story begins. So now things are gonna slow down and you'll get changed cannon arcs and a lot of original content to focus around Naruto, Lucy and everything else that's been set up so far. So leave a review, thanks for reading and I'll see you next time.