Hey guys! Crescent Rider here and I am back with another chapter. As for what you'll expect for this chapter, it'll be the near beginning of Eisenwald but it'll only focus on members of Lost Souls.
As always, I will try to make things interesting.
That is all I have to say and enjoy the chapter!
Krosstoen Border...
After Team Shadow arrived, the coachman stopped and knocked his carriage a few times, "This is as far as I can go. You'll have to walk there on your own!"
As soon as the three stepped out of the carriage, they were met with a forest and Jet turned to the coachman, "Thanks for the lift. But why'd you want us to stop here? Couldn't you just take us there all the way?"
"This is Krosstoen, we're talking about. You want me to deal with what's beyond those woods?" The coachman questioned, "Besides, you said you came here with a quest on you. Just show it off to that thing inside those woods. Other than that, you're all on your own,"
The coachman then turned his carriage around and left Team Shadow Gear. Levy then pulled out the quest flyer from her bag and unfurled it, "It says here that to enter Krosstoen, we must keep this flyer with us. For some guide of theirs,"
And on cue, they heard a bump against a wall and Team Shadow Gear whipped themselves around to see a large shadow with various eyes and teeth. They were alarmed by its appearance as Jet and Droy stood their ground for Levy, though they soon heard a voice from the monster, "I recognize that emblem... Why have you come here, Fairy Tailers?"
The three were stunned by the shadow words, then Levy somehow pieced it together as she pulled out the flyer, stepped forth, and presented it. The shadow's eyes glanced down at the job request, then back at Team Shadow Gear.
"Alright... Stay on the path, and don't wander off," The shadow told, submerged into the ground, and forming a path for the three,
They were hesitant about whether they should or shouldn't go through with this, but they went through with the job request and followed the path of their guide. The further they went into the forest, the more they realized why they needed a guide for Krosstoen.
Passing by a few large trees, they hear several whispers and children's laughter. They also spotted several silhouettes in the distance but the shadow's eyes appeared at their feet, "Do not be fooled by those noises or those people. For they have wandered the forest once, and they were never seen again..."
"Seriously? Just what kind of forest is this?" Droy questioned,
"Those who dared to find this place..." The shadow replied,
It caused Team Shadow Gear to shudder if they went through this place without a guide. At the same time, they pitied those who were oblivious enough to enter this place. Not knowing that there were consequences to their actions.
For almost an hour, they reached what appeared to be a large set of doors and metal handles on the front. The shadow would slip through the door sill, but not before giving one simple instruction, "Knock our door, someone will come for you,"
With the shadow gone, Levy grabbed the handles and knocked on the door once. It caused a long bang that flinched the three and they took a step back from the door.
"That sounded intimidating, don't you think?" Jet inquired,
"You don't have to tell me twice," Droy remarked,
Then one of the doors opened and they were met with a member of the Lost Souls Guild, Syr.
"Are you the ones who came for the quest?" Syr inquired,
"That's us," Levy said, and revealed the flyer to her, "Team Shadow Gear,"
"Great! Come on in, the children are waiting," Syr insisted, and the three went inside,
From there, they walk through a tunnel and were awestruck upon seeing Krosstoen for the very first time. It had several from the ground floor to the wall up, some sections of the area had mobile transport such as lifts, ziplines, and even small magic vehicles like hoverboards.
Some delicacies didn't originate in Fiore and Team Shadow Gear was somewhat tempted to try it, and the people come in all shapes and sizes. Especially when one of the vendors was a humanoid rat selling grilled food and soft cheese.
"I know those looks on your faces. You can say to yourself that Krosstoen is a place where people can get along no matter who they are and where they're from. Some of it is true, but we don't keep people for too long though," Syr revealed,
"Why's that?" Droy inquired,
"Father Graham discourages pro-long residences in Krosstoen. If people aren't used to traveling the outside world, they'll feel so comfortable that they wouldn't want to leave at all," Syr explained as they arrived at a large lift near the town square. She'd pull a lever and the lifts take them further up, "To prevent such things, Father Graham devised a proposal in which members of Lost Souls can escort a small group to the outside world and lead them to areas they aren't familiar with,"
"Oh, I get it now! So Lost Souls offers people residence and provide experience across Fiore once they've reached of age," Levy presumed,
"Correct, though many often confuse our intentions as a way of preventing overpopulation in Krosstoen. But people can say as much as they want, as long as it doesn't cause any trouble that is," Syr admitted, then the lift reached their designated floor, "We're close to the orphanage now. And just a reminder, try to be nice to them. They haven't seen any other guild besides mine these days,"
"We'll try our best, right guys?" Levy inquired,
"Oh, Levy! Of course, we'll behave!" Jet and Droy swooned,
Syr just giggled at their response and escorted them to the orphanage. Upon arrival, she'd open the door and several orphans came and gathered their way to her, "Sister Syr!"
"Hello children, how have you been?" Syr inquired,
"Wow..." Levy muttered by the number of orphans present and the features they have,
Some had visible scars on their bodies, some had features that resembled animals or other races, and some even had prosthetics arms and legs...
While Team Shadow Gear is stuck in a trance, an orphan notices them and tugs onto Syr's shirt, "Sister Syr, who are those two people? I've never seen them before"
"Well, children. I sent out a job request outside of Krosstoen and brought you all some substitute teachers until Sillavana returns. So you better behave with them, alright?" Syr stated,
"Yes, Sister Syr!" The children respond,
"Right..." Syr said, then she turned to Team Shadow Gear, "You'll find their classroom in the East Wing of the building. Everything you'll need is on the table, but you need to find me. I'll be in the kitchen preparing today's lunch. And don't worry about getting lost, the children will lead the way,"
With that, Team Shadow Gear was escorted by a child and they soon ended up at their classroom. They were well-behaved as they took places and Levy was nervous since she has little to no experience teaching children.
However, the desk had a few books and a few of those pages were bookmarked by their usual teacher. She also found two notes dictating the proper order of lessons for the children, and Magic was their first subject and freedom of expression.
Before she begins, however, Levy first provides a proper introduction, "Hello, everyone. My name is Levy Mcgarden and these two are my guys' friends,"
"I'm Jet!" Jet introduced as he raised his hand,
"And I'm Droy!" Droy followed,
"And together," Levy performs their signature pose with Jet and Droy, albeit on a desk rather than a floor, "We're Team Shadow Gear!"
The orphans were in awe by their posing, then they quickly jumped off of the desk as Levy picked up the first book, "Now before we begin with today's lesson, are there any questions you'd like to ask first?"
A few hands were raised, and Levy picked the closest child in the room, "What guild are you from?"
"Oh, we're from Fairy Tail, and we accepted your guild's request under our master's advice," Levy answered,
"Fairy Tail? Like the one Sister Lilith talked about?" Orphan Girl 1 inquired,
"Sister Lilith?" Droy parroted,
"She's the commander of Fiore's Army and she's always angry about a guild named Fairy Tail," Orphan Boy 1 revealed,
"And she always says that Fairy Tail should take responsibility for their actions!" Orphan Girl 2 remarked,
What followed is the orphans voicing Lilith's opinion of Fairy Tail and Team Shadow Gear couldn't help but feel let down that one of Lost Souls Members is against their guild's knack for untamed destruction. They may as well relate Lilith to their Guild Master, who is always getting piles of complaints from the Magic Council.
Once the opinions died down, Levy asked the next orphan a question, "Why do you call yourselves Team Shadow Gear?"
"Oh, that? It's kinda of a long story..." Levy turned to the clock, and noticed that half an hour had already passed, "But we'll tell you as we get on with the lesson, okay?"
"Okay!" Orphan Boy 2 said, and so did the rest of the orphans,
What followed is Levy proceeding with today's lesson about magic and she did her best to educate them in the field, "As you all may know or not know, Magic is a supernatural force or phenomenon that's part of our everyday life. Almost everyone has it, and they're able to do wonderful things,"
Levy demonstrates by writing the word 'Light' in the air and illuminating it before the children, "For example, My Solid Script Magic allows me to write down words in the air and act upon what I've written,"
"Wow..." The children mouthed with wonder,
A few minutes later, Levy dispels her magic and the light vanishes just as it came, "However, magic often varies with the individual and my teammates with demonstrate, if we have an open field that is,"
One of the orphans raised his hand, and Levy turned to him, "There's one here in the orphanage,"
"Really? That could help, but are you sure we're allowed to go there?" Levy questioned, and the children voiced their affirms to her,
With a clear answer, Levy asked them to lead the way...
A Few Minutes Later
Upon arrival, Team Shadow Gear was impressed by how open and thought-out the area was. After the children sat down, Droy was the first to demonstrate his magic with a small sack of seeds.
"These are my 'Secret Seed', and my magic is called Plant Magic," Droy explained, and grabbed a small handful of seeds,
He then threw them and what sprouted were large flowers and vines in seconds, impressing the children with the size and beauty of his plants.
"It's just like Sister Ivy's!" An Orphan exclaimed, "But with plant seeds,"
"That's kinda right," Droy remarked while rubbing the back of his head, "Though my magic is kinda common, I'm quite glad you all liked it,"
"Guess it's my turn to shine, this time," Jet said as he smirked and patted Droy's back, then he pointed his thumb at himself, "As for me, kids. I happen to specialize in a spell called High Speed. So watch closely,""
Jet goes into a running position and Levy acts as his starter with Solid Script: Blank at the ready, "Ready... Go!"
One bang and Jet ran at high speed, leaving a trail of dust behind him. The children momentarily shielded their eyes from the dust, then they watched as Jet ran several laps at the area. Some of the children stood up and tried to trail his run, but they would get dizzy as they spun around and Droy used his Secret Seeds to catch them before they fell on the ground.
Once Jet was on his last lap, he took a turn and went straight for the children. Though he would grind his feet against the ground and both Levy and Droy made a few walls to keep the excessive dust from reaching them.
When he stopped, they dropped the wall and showed Jet standing yet refreshed rather than tired.
A couple of minutes passed, and the children soon expressed wonder over the speed Jet had demonstrated today.
"That was awesome, Brother Jet! Who knew you run so fast!" Orphan Boy 1 said,
"I wish I could run like that!" Orphan Boy 2 said,
As they continued to praise Jet, he just smiled and so did Levy and Droy. But after that, they continue onward with the lesson, "So you all get it now? Magic is quite a wonder for those who see it firsthand. From growing plants, running marathons, and script making. Anyone with the right amount of knowledge can achieve whatever they want,"
"However, Magic also comes with a lot of responsibility," Jet added, "If you're not careful, you might end up doing something wrong and affect those around you. Just like my High Speed, hadn't it been for Levy and Droy, I would've strained your eyes with dust,"
"And don't forget that nature is still part of everyday life," Droy pointed out, "My magic is great for sprouting plants quickly, but there's an unspoken law that those who tamper with nature can lead to unforeseen consequences. So remember that well, okay?"
"Okay!" The children replied,
"Now, let's head back to class and finish with the rest of the lessons," Levy said,
The Children stood up and followed the three back to the classroom, though they were unaware that the same shadow that guided them was watching from the distance...
Afternoon...
After the lessons, the bell rang and everyone went to the cafeteria for lunch period.
The one who served today's lunch was Syr with a fresh bowl of broth, baked bread, and cups of purified water. Team Shadow Gear was also present, though they are often approached and asked about the outside world whenever they possibly can.
In response, Syr gently lectured them to give the three space as they ate lunch and the children swiftly apologized before hauling their trays to their tables.
Only after the last tray is several, Syr sat down with a tray of her own, "I take it that it went well?"
"Better than I expected," Levy admitted, "And it's kinda fun that these children are fond of us already,"
"Well, can't you blame them? We're practically the first few members of Fairy Tail they've seen for a long time. Despite what this Lilith said about us, they're rather quick with making friends with us than enemies," Jet said,
"Lilith?" Syr parroted,
"During the first subject about Magic, the orphans talked about some girl named Lilith. Said something about Fairy Tail's knack for over-the-top destruction," Droy revealed, "Does she detest us that much?"
"Not Fairy Tail specifically," A voice spoke and everyone turned to the left side of the table,
They were met with a young boy wearing a white long-sleeved shirt under a black sleeveless vest, shorts above the knees, long white socks, and leather shoes. As for the expression he wore, it's more of a stoic look
This boy's name is Humi Struqan, 4th Head Member of Lost Souls Guild and sworm guardian of Krosstoen, he is also known by another name of the guild...
"Oh, hello Pitch. I didn't expect you to leave your room at this time," Syr said,
"I only wanted to bring Cassie's lunch to her, so it's only natural that I leave my room for her," Pitch said, then he turns to Team Shadow Gear,
"Um... Hello," Levy timidly greeted, as the mood between them is quite stiff, "I'm Levy Mcgarden and,"
"Your companions are Jet and Droy. Together, You are Team Shadow Gear of Fairy Tail," Pitch clarified, "Quite a pleasure to make your acquaintance,"
"How did you know that we're team Shadow Gear?" Droy questioned,
"I was watching from the shadows. Nothing ever escapes from my wary eyes," Pitch dictated,
"Shadows... Wait, does that mean you're that shadow that guided us here?" Jet inquired,
"Correct, I was the one who led you here," Pitch said, "As for my previous statement, Lilith doesn't detest your guild. She detests your actions from unruly behavior and unlawful cause of destruction. The Magic Council dismissing your actions is one matter, the people affected by your actions are another. It is often hard for us to keep track of incidents caused by your guild,"
"But none of us ever put it against you," Syr assured, "Not even Klause, Head of the Rune Knights, is against you Fairy Tailers,"
The three sheepishly laughed at the sheer awkwardness of their conversation, but they felt thoughtful that a guild such as this one is quite forgiving. Though Team Shadow Gear hasn't done anything over the top like other members, they hold that they don't put too much pressure on this guild.
For they already have more on their plate than they normally should.
With that conversation settled, Pitch leaves to feed Cassie her lunch, Syr returned to her duties around the orphanage, and Team Shadow Gear decided to finish the job request with the rest of the lessons for today.
Evening...
At the end of their lessons, the children awfully felt sad knowing that the Team Shadow Gear was leaving after completing the request and giving a total of 750,000 Jewels. One or Two of the Orphan Girls even hugged Levy as they asked her to stay for a while longer.
But Syr calmly stated, "I know it's sad for them to go after today, but they can always come back when a request comes up,"
"Yeah! If you guys ever want to see us, just post an urgent request and we'll come running for ya!" Jet said with his fist pumped,
"And besides, we've got our own home to go back to. You wouldn't them feeling sad because we're gone, right?" Droy pointed out,
The children immediately agreed and Levy bends a knee to the children, "You have been wonderful children, and I can tell that some of you wished to become Wizards just like us. But if you work hard enough, and believe in yourselves. One day, you'll be as great as Shadow Gear, perhaps more if you're brave enough,"
"Okay!" The Children agreed,
"Pitch has made a route for you three to follow," Syr said, "Once you're there, a carriage will pick you up after,"
"Thanks for everything, Syr. I do hope to visit another day," Levy said,
"Of course, you are always welcome as long you're on the job," Syr added, "Until then, take care of yourselves,"
"Bye Sister Levy! Bye Brother Jet! Bye Brother Droy!" The Children said as they waved at the three,
Team Shadow Gear waved back at them, and the lift took them down to the ground level. What comes next is the three leaving under Pitch's guidance and Syr sending a letter to her Guild Master...
The Following Day...
On the train station of Hargeon, A total of six members of Lost Souls were boarding the train and their next destination was Clover Town. These members consist of Soul, Bow, Ivy, Mr. Night, Jean, and most importantly, their Guild Master, Father Iosif Graham.
Throughout the years, he has never changed from his usual attire. But what's different is that he wears a badge of the Ten Wizard Saints on his vest and a ring on his left finger.
Just before the train's departure, a Magic Letter enters through the open door and stops by the five, "Message for Master Iosif! Message for Master Iosif!"
Father Graham would grab the letter and perform a circular motion on the letter with his finger. A magic circle is conjured and what appeared was a projection of Syr, "Greetings Father Graham! I have news for that job request you've sent to Fairy Tail,"
"What are the results of their arrival?" Father Graham inquired,
"It went better than I anticipated! Recently, the children have been talking non-stop about a Team known as Shadow Gear, and some even idolized them. There are still some doubts here and there, but I'm sure everything will work out just fine," Syr said,
"I see, thank you for informing me of the result," Father Graham thanked, and the message is finished,
"It's good to know that the others are starting to like Fairy Tail," Bow remarked, "Even though Lilith has put in a lot of influence in them already,"
"Establishing better relations with fellow guilds is essential," Jean said as she leaned against the window, "Without it, there won't be any trust between us and that is bad for the magic community,"
"Much further until we reached Clover?" Ivy inquired,
"Our destination is just one station away. After that, we'll get to meet all kinds of Guild Masters across Fiore," Soul said,
"I can't wait to meet them all!" Bow expressed, and Mr. Night meowed in agreement,
They soon hear the train whistle and slowly depart from Hargeon's station. As they wait, Jean sleeps with Mr. Night curling around her lap, the three girls remain patient as ever, and Father Graham reads his book until their esteemed arrival.
But as the train left Hagreon, they were unaware of the danger that is soon loom over Clover...
Details and References:
Humi 'Pitch' Struqan's appearance and power are similar to Selim Bradley's. But without the whole Philosopher's Stone...
Krosstoen's infrastructure and technology are similar to Piltover and Zaun from Arcane, but instead of a Council, there's a Guild that manages it all.