Alright! The time is now! It's time for another arc to begin!

The Tenrou Island Arc! And so, comes another songfic! Enjoy!

The opening begins with a shot of the grave of Mavis Vermillion as a piano plays at a fast pace. The camera slowly pulls away from the grave, making it get further and further away. We then the Tenrou tree the camera scaling up towards the top as the Fairy Tail logo suddenly appears. While the logo is on screen, we can see all of Tenrou Island as the black Fairy Tail symbol on the logo suddenly shines and overtakes the screen. We then see Natsu, who is standing close to the edge of the cliff overlooking the island. Natsu looks up to the sky while holding his scarf, appearing to be deep in thought. He slowly fades into a silhouette colored like a sky as the face Zeref opens his eyes, looking toward the audience.

Kimi ga kureta towa no kizuna wo
Omoide ni nante dekiru wake nai

Natsu and the boy are now walking away from each other with their backs turned while walking on a wet surface causing it to ripple each step they took. Lucy and Cana take the place of the two, Cana of which appearing to be remorseful as Lucy walks by her.

Cana then has a flashback when she, along with everyone else in the guild. While she sits by herself with her cards, she watched as Gildarts along with everyone had a good time roughhousing or laughing. Flash forward to the present, Cana is still standing by herself while she watches Gildarts having a good time with the other members of Fairy Tail. The scene fades to black with everyone turning into silhouettes with Cana being the only left. The shapes then change into plants and bushes with an outline of Zeref standing among them as the plants grow wildly around him.

Yasashisa wo kimi wa kuretakara
Tsuyosa ni kizuketanda AriGatô

We then see Natsu and the rest of the chosen members chosen for the S-Class trial as well as their partners all standing together looking towards the distance, determined at ready to face whatever was coming their way. After that, we see Zeref walking through the forest in another part of Tenrou Island. Everything was lush and alive, but after a few seconds, the greenery around Zeref instantly becomes withered and dead.

Kanchigai shita kiyousa hokotte
Yasashisa shiranu marude ookami sa

Lucy is in her room, her eyes filled with tears about to trickle down her face. Next, we see Cana who on her knees, letting out a wail of despair as she cries. Lastly, we see Natsu who is on his hands and knees, in a crater of pulverized rock as tears dripping down his face with Happy looking him over to see if he was alright.

Kimi ga ude wo tsukande kureta hi ga
Ikiru imi wo eta shunkandatta

We now see Ultear, who is utilizing her magic, making a large teal crystal ball hover from her wrist guard, and she dances around till she stands on the right side of the screen. Hades appeared from behind her waving his hand as if he's giving an order to attack with a black background with a purple glowing symbol of Grimoire Heart. Makarov then overtakes the screen as he hulks up to his giant form as he stands on the shore of the island towering over the ship belonging to Grimoire Heart, ready to crush it. Then as the camera pans upwards, we see an excited Happy, a determined Pantherlily, and a worried Carla on the bottom while the three S-Class wizards stand behind them, Mira on the left, Erza on the right, and Gildarts in the middle. Wendy and Mest fly in from both sides overtaking the screen. Wendy appears to be worried while Mest is neutral, but that his face quickly changes to a maniac smile as they cross over. We zoom in close to Mest's eye seeing an image of Laharl giving orders to his soldiers amid a fiery landscape.

Utagau sentakushi nai nakama ga
Koko ni irukara

We now see a sinister man with long blonde hair with red eyes, unleash a powerful black-gray fire-type attack at the three Exceeds, the three barely managing to get out of the way of the attack. Then, Gray and Loke as they stand before a goat man in a suit emitting a strange and dark magic aura much to their bewilderment and confusion. A girl is walking through the forest of Tenrou Island in a shallow river having pink hair with green eyes, and wearing a purple unitard with brown boots with a red cape on top. As she walks through the river, she flips her cape having an emotionless yet determined face. Lucy is seen running away in terror from another member of Grimoire Heart who is an overweight yet muscular man whose skin is white as chalk, and wore an outfit comprising of a purple speedo and a dark robe, thrusting his hands forward like a sumo wrester.

Kimi ga kureta towa no kizuna wo
Omoide ni nante dekiru wake nai

A crying and scared Lisanna is holding an unconscious Mirajane in her arms as Willy stands between her and another member of Grimoire Heart of which was a dark-skinned man with tribal-like clothing. Willy is completely enraged and emitting a black and blue magic aura, the black showing more than the blue, as the land is ablaze from a recent explosion. Then, we see another member of Grimoire Heart of which is a man with silver hair in a pompadour style summoning forth a beast-like creature with piercing red eyes. Next, a battered, bruised, but unbeaten Gajeel stands in front of teary-eyed Levy protecting her from an unknown enemy. Then, Elfman is seen holding a seemingly lifeless Evergreen screaming in despair.

Kibishisa wo kimi ga kuretakara
Yasashisa no toutosa shitta

Natsu is now standing before Zeref of which is crying upon seeing him, while he stares back at him confused and somewhat bewildered. Zeref then holds his head in his hands in agony as he releases a powerful dark wave of magic seeming to overwhelm Natsu as the wave becomes so large, it overwhelms Tenrou Island making the screen go white.

Kimi ga kureta towa no kizuna wo
Omoide ni nante dekiru wake nai

Natsu is seen giving Lucy a high-five as the two get ready to fight an unknown enemy with Happy in the middle.

Yasashisa wo kimi wa kuretakara
Tsuyosa ni kizuketanda Arigatô

We see Tenrou Island as all the Fairy Tail wizards appear in a specific order filling the screen. First Mira, Erza, and Gildarts in the upper top, Fried, Bixlow, Lisanna, Juvia, Gray, and Loke in the middle, Cana, Lucy, Gajeel, Levy, and Wendy on the bottom with Evergreen and Elfman appear on the right, and finally Natsu on the right, Willy on the left, and Happy, Carla, and Pantherlily on the lower bottom. The opening then ends.

Chapter 108

A Model Idea

Almost a week had passed since Makarov made his announcement about the participants for the S-Class Trial. Ever since then, the chosen wizards as well as their partners, have been busy doing some training to prepare for the trial. As for me, I went about my usual routine going out on jobs to pay the rent. I was now coming into the guildhall finishing up another job I picked up in town. I turned in my job request, got my reward, and I was now sitting at a table gulping down some water and after finishing my lunch.

"There's nothing that satisfies me more than having some lunch after a job well done," I said to myself.

I then watched as everyone was speaking to one another feeling excited about who would come out on top as the newest S-Class wizard. However, I wasn't so enthusiastic as everyone else. My thoughts were filled with what had transpired the other night. Ever since the encounter with that Mest guy, I couldn't stop thinking about him. Something about him didn't seem right to me. He was a Fairy Tail wizard, that was what I'd been told, but for some reason, I couldn't get rid of this suspicion that I've seen him before, and not in a good way. I tried to think about where I've seen him, but I couldn't think of anything significant.

"Man, this has been bugging me ever since yesterday. I can't put my finger on it. That Mest guy's not only all sorts of weird, but something about him rubs me the wrong way. I just wish I knew why. Maybe someone else in the guild knows, Mest? Only one way to find out."

I got up from my table and looked around to see who I could ask. It was then that I saw Macao and Wakaba sitting at a table chatting cheerily. Those two have been in Fairy Tail longer than I have, so maybe they could provide me with some information. I walked over to their table, causing the two to look up towards me.

"Hey, Macao. Wakaba," I greeted.

"Hey there, Willy. How's it going?" Macao greeted back.

"So what brings you our way?" asked Wakaba.

"There was something I needed to ask you guys about," I replied. "Something regarding the S-Class Trial."

"The S-Class Trial, eh? Well, Wakaba and I have seen our fair share of those," Macao said, smiling nostalgically. "And boy were they crazy back then."

"You're telling me," agreed Wakaba. "I remember back when Erza and Mira won their trials. Those two were spunky little kids back then. Makes me realize how old I'm getting."

"Why Erza and Mira specifically?" asked Macao. "You do know that Laxus and Mystogan came out S-Class wizards too, you know."

"Yeah, but Mystogan turned out to be a resident of Edolas, and Laxus has been expelled from the guild due to that little stunt he pulled, a couple months back," said Wakaba. "It's not like I'm focusing on them just cause they're both girls or anything. I'm just going by what I remember."

I then cleared my throat. "Anyway, I was hoping that you two could tell me some things about someone from the guild that was picked for the trial," I said. "His name is Mest Gryder."

Macao and Wakaba hummed as they furrowed their brows in thought.

"Let's see... From what I can remember, Mest was pretty close to winning the trial a year back," said Wakaba. "But in the end, he came up short. And..."

"And what?" I wondered.

Wakaba seemed to pause deep in thought. "That's funny," he said. "I can't seem to remember anything beyond that."

"You can't remember?" I repeated. "You sure?"

"Yeah. For some reason, I keep drawing a blank every time I try to remember the guy," said Wakaba. "And I'm not usually the type of guy to forget something like that."

"Now that you mention it, I can't remember much about him either," agreed Macao. "The only thing I can remember about Mest is that he got far in the S-Class Trial and lost. Anything beyond that is kinda vague."

"Are you sure it's not because your memories aren't as good as you think they are?" I asked.

Macao and Wakaba shook their heads in response. This certainly was strange as well as puzzling. At first, I thought it was because of their old age, but these two didn't seem to be the type of men that would forget something that significant.

"Maybe I should ask some of the other guild members to see if they give me the same response."

"Speaking of which, it's a pity that you weren't picked for the trial, Willy," said Macao. "I would have thought for sure that the Master would pick you."

"Yeah, I know, but personally, I'm glad he didn't pick me," I said. "I mean, I don't think I'm cut out for it, anyway."

"Now, why would you go say something like that?" wondered Macao. "I mean you are a dragon slayer and you're a pretty strong wizard too."

"Come on, Macao. Isn't it obvious? If Willy was picked for the trial, he'd have to go up against his girlfriend, Mirajane," Wakaba teased. "After all, those two are childhood sweethearts. Willy can't bear to lay a hand on his precious Mirajane. He did lose in a fight against her after all."

Macao and Wakaba then laughed as my cheeks began to heat up as I tried to suppress a scowl. "I-It's not like that!" I cried. "I just got distracted in that fight! Nothing more! How do you guys even know about that anyway?!"

"Come on, Willy. Your fight against Mira's been the talk of the guild," Macao said. "Who wouldn't know about it? Besides, it's not that big of a deal. You're not the first guy that got distracted by Mira's good looks."

"Wh-Who said I got distracted by her looks?!" I snapped a bit flustered. "I just got distracted during the fight. Nothing more!"

"Whatever you say, kiddo," chuckled Wababa. "Ah, young love. It must be so nice to be young and falling in love."

I couldn't help but growl in frustration wanting to convince them that they were wrong, but I took a deep breath and calmed down a bit trying not to freak out like I did the last couple of times.

"A-Anyway, I have to go now," I told them calmly. "I got some things to do."

"Hey, Willy. Is something wrong with you, kid?" Macao asked.

"Yeah. You look a bit tense," added Wakaba. "And just so you know, me and Macao were just messing with you."

"No. It's nothing, and don't worry. I'm not usually the type to take things personally," I replied, shaking my head. "I just have to go to do something is all. But just so we're clear, I just lost focus in the fight with Mirajane! Nothing more! I mean it's not like I was staring at a particular part of her or something."

Macao and Wakaba stared at me, and I could feel myself burning up with embarrassment. I then turned my heel and walked away as fast as I could pretending that I didn't say what I said.

"Well, that was embarrassing. However, it was for the best. I can't really say anything about my suspicions just yet. If I did, they'd probably think that I'm jealous or something," I thought. "For the moment, I better keep this to myself. Until then, I need to figure out just what exactly is going on. Maybe someone else could provide me with some information."

I then walked away to speak to another guildmate.

NO POV

Around that very same time, the Strauss siblings had just arrived back to the guildhall after finishing up an errand.

"I appreciate you two coming with me," said Mira. "Even though you two should be training for the S-Class Trial."

"It's no big deal, Sis," said Elfman. "We're always ready to help you whenever you need it. That's what a real man would do."

"Besides, we still got plenty of time to train," said Lisanna. "The S-Class Trial starts in four days."

"Speaking of which, I gotta get going," said Elfman. "A real man like me's got training to do. I'll be seeing you two later."

Elfman then took his leave heading out of the guild.

"See you later, Big Brother Elf," called Lisanna. "Make sure you and Evergreen do your best!"

Elfman then snapped his head back toward Lisanna, his ears bright red, but he turned his head back forward and went on his way.

Lisanna couldn't help but laugh. Even Mira couldn't help but chuckle a little.

"Must you tease him all the time?" asked Mira.

"I'm his little sister. I'm supposed to tease him," Lisanna grinned. "It's kinda my job. Besides, it's rather cute the way he gets all embarrassed. Anyway, I'm going to find Juvia and see if she wants to get ready too. Are you going to head for Tenrou Island after this?

"Yes, but a little later. I have to get ready for an interview and a photo shoot with Jason," said Mira. "He wants to take some photos of a new style of bikini that's coming out soon."

"Well, aren't you lucky," sighed Lisanna. "I wish I was as popular as you are when it comes to modeling, Sis. I can think of a lot of girls and boys that would want to see you in a bikini. Particularly, a certain water dragon we know in the guild~?"

Mira knew who Lisanna was talking about which made her pinks tinge pink a little. "Lisanna, would you stop with that already? Besides, Willy isn't exactly the kind of guy to fall in love with a girl."

"I wouldn't be too sure about that. After all, Willy did stop dead in his tracks for a few seconds during that fight from the other day," chuckled Lisanna. "Which means one out of two things happened; One, Willy couldn't bring himself to hurt you. Or two, Willy was staring at you because he likes you."

Mira then giggled. "Maybe one of those things did happen, but I don't believe that was the case," she said. "Besides, he said so himself; he was distracted by something, and he lost the fight. It's honestly nothing to read into."

Lisanna then pouted. "Whatever you say, but I still think you're acting stubborn."

Mira then laughed. "Whatever you say. Now, if you don't mind, I have to get ready for Jason," said Mira. "If he shows up at the guild, tell him I'll be over at the pool in the back."

"Alright, Mira," said Lisanna.

And Mira went on her way, walking towards the back of the guild and disappearing behind the door. Lisanna watched her leave, now left alone and feeling a little sulky with Mira.

"Man! Why does Mira have to be so stubborn?!" she grumped. "Why can't she realize that Willy's starting to develop feelings for her? At this rate, they're never going to get together or at least make a move. Maybe there's a way I can give them a little extra push."

Lisanna started to think, trying to come up with some ideas to get Mira and Willy closer. At that moment, she heard a loud voice that made her jump.

"Oh! My! Gosh! It's her! Lisanna Strauss, the younger sister of Elfman and Mirajane Strauss! SO COOL!"

Lisanna then looked behind her, and she saw a young man trembling with excitement as he kept squealing the word cool. He was as old as your average twenty-year-old, had blonde hair with a strand that stuck straight up in the middle, wore a pink t-shirt, blue jeans, brown shoes and black sunglasses on his head. He also had a white handbag around his should and a black camera around his neck.

Lisanna then smiled, knowing who he was. "You must be, Jason from Sorceror Weekly, right?"

"Yes, indeed!" Jason smiled. "I'm here to see your big sister model for the latest new bikini. But then again, I'm a bit interested in interviewing you too, Lisanna."

"Sorry, but I don't have time for an interview," Lisanna spoke politely. "In the meantime, Mira's in the back, so I'll show you where it is."

Lisanna then started to lead Jason to the back where the pool was. As she did, she noticed something. She saw that Willy was at another table talking to Laki and a couple of other guild members. Then she had an idea. Something cheeky that made a mischevious smile work its way to her lips.

WILLY'S POV

I had just finished interviewing some of the other guild members from Laki's table after asking several other members in the guild. So far, everyone that I asked had given me the same response as Wakaba and Macao. This was definitely no coincidence nor was it a case of everyone having selcetive memory, which led me to believe that something was going on and no one but me seemed to be aware of this.

"This is definitely starting to get weird. Either everyone's suffering from some form of a hangover due to their partying and drinking, or someone's been messing with our heads with some kind of memory magic, and I'm pretty sure that the first option is unlikely. And I think I know who prime culprit could be."

It was evident to me that Mest something to do with what was going on, but the problem was I didn't have any proof that it was him. For all I knew, it could have been some prank from another wizard. However, I wasn't about to write him off as a suspect. So I decided that I should try to find the guy and question him for answers. I was just about to do so, but at that moment, Lisanna came up to me.

"Hey, Willy! There you are!" she said panting. "I've been looking for you!"

"What's up, Lisanna?" I asked. "Something the matter?"

"Yes. I need you to do me a favor," said Lisanna. "It's something only you can do."

She then handed me, two bottles of water of which confused me a little bit.

"Lisanna, I appreciate it, but I'm fine," I spoke. "My body's well hydrated enough."

"First of all, it's always important to hydrate no matter what," said Lisanna. "Secondly, this water's not for you, silly. It's for Jason, a reporter from Sorceror Weekly, and a model who he's interviewing. I want you to take the water him, and the model is all.

"Why can't you do it?" I asked. "I mean, you're free."

"Sorry, but I have to go train with Juvia for the S-Class Trial," said Lisanna. "Which is why, I need you to take those waters to Jason and the model for me. I'd appreciate it."

Before I could even protest, Lisanna had already merrily skipped away and was gone. I then looked at the waters in my hands as I heaved a sigh.

"Good grief. Couldn't Lisanna have asked someone else other than me to this?" I grumbled. "I mean I've other things to do right now, but I suppose now that I've gotten stuck with this task, I guess I better do it. Now if I recall correctly, I think the pool should be behind the stage if I'm not mistaken."

I then walked over to the stage, going up the stairs heading towards the back where a door was. I grabbed the handle and then quietly opened the door and peered inside. The inside pool in our guild was decorated to make it look like an outside environment having a couple of palm trees here and there with a couple of tropical-looking bushes. I've rarely had the chance to see it, but it was always a marvel to behold. As I walked in, I quietly shut the door behind me carefully looking around at that moment; I heard a pair of voices.

"Alright! This is gonna be so cool! You look so amazing, Mira!"

"Thank you, Jason, but you should calm down a bit. You're getting too excited."

"I'm sorry, but you look amazing! You're gonna rock this spread for the magazine!"

The first voice was a man's of which, I didn't recognize, but the second one I knew immediately. Feeling a bit curious and wanting to make sure my suspicions were correct, I hid from behind a tree and then peered out, and my eyes went wide.

There was Mira with some guy with blonde hair wearing a pink shirt with pants also carrying a camera. Not only that, but Mira was now wearing a different type of swimsuit I've never seen before. It was a colored a deep blue and looked about the same as the previous one when it came to the design, but the top was straight, strapless and had small decorations on her arms. She also had her hair tied in pigtails each having a white ribbon. No sooner than I saw Mira in this attire, I couldn't take my eyes off her. The man in the camera of which I assumed was Jason, then went up to her camera at the ready.

"Alright, Mira. This is gonna be a winter collection shoot," the man said. "So make sure to give it your all, OK?"

"You know I will," smiled Mira.

Mira then struck a pose as Jason took a few shots with his camera.

"Nice! Now lie on your back and try to look like you're sulky," Jason instructed.

Mira did as she was instructed and then made her face into a pouty one that was more adult than it was childish. Jason went on telling Mira to take certain poses and expressions, while took pictures from every angle.

"Yes! That's it!" Jason spoke, now feeling enthusiastic. "This is so cool! The readers are gonna love this!"

As the shoot went on, my eyes were glued solely on Mira, unable to take my eyes off of her. I mean I knew that she was a beautiful girl, but seeing her like this made me think that she was absolutely stunning. Not to mention that she knew how to control herself.

"Now I understand why Mira's Fairy Tail's poster girl. She's got the face and the body of a model. It's like she was made for this kind of stuff. Not to mention, she looks beautiful."

In the back of my mind, I felt like this wasn't something I shouldn't be doing, but I couldn't tear my eyes away. Then Jason asked Mira to strike another pose of which she complied. She bent forward putting her hand to her head like she was putting her hair back and gave a flirtatious wink. As she did, I saw I could see the cleavage, which showed even more from her swimsuit, and that made me gulp instinctively and remember back to my dream.

"Holy- They look like they're gonna fall out!"

I then realized what I was thinking, and I shook my head, trying to get those thoughts out of my head. Not only that, but my dragon was starting to act up again as I looked away, trying to calm down. Jason, on the other hand, kept on taking pictures of Mira in her current poses along with a few others. After a while, Jason finally put down his camera, his fists pumping with excitement.

"Yes! Yes! So hot!" Jason cried. "I can't wait till these get printed! This is gonna be so cool! Thank you so much for your time, Mira."

"It's no problem, Jason," smiled Mira. "Glad you could come."

At this point, I felt that it was time for me to leave or at least deliver the water to the two before they notice me here. I was just about to step out from my hiding place, but then came trouble. I had just taken a step when I felt my foot get caught on something. Before I could react, I fell forward falling flat on my face dropping the waters in my hands at the same time.

"Who the heck is that?!" I heard Jason say.

I then got back up on my feet, trying playing it cool while picking up the water bottles. "H-Hey. How's it going, you guys?" I greeted nervously.

"Oh! Willy, it's you," said Mira. "How nice of you to drop in."

Before I could answer, Jason suddenly seemed to appear before me, getting a bit close, and staring straight at me.

"Hold on a minute. Mira just called you, Willy," the camera guy said. "You mean to tell me you're the Willy? As in Willy Falconer? The boy who disappeared for six years from Magnolia only to return and become a member of Fairy Tail?"

I felt caught off guard for a bit, not to mention that it felt a bit uncomfortable, but I answered with a tiny nod. Jason stared at me, his eyes seeming to bore into me in silence. Then he spoke.

"That... is... SO COOL!" he shrieked, as he began fist pumping like crazy with his tongue flapping out of his mouth. "I can't believe it! Willy Falconer, in the flesh, is standing right in front of me!" He then held out his hand as he trembled with excitement. "May I shake your hand?"

I looked at Jason's hand and then back to Jason, feeling very surprised. I then shook his hand, not sure what else to say. Jason then started cheering while pumping his fists with excitement again. Mira then came up laughing a little.

"Sorry about him, Willy. Jason has a nasty habit of getting too excited at times," she said. "He is Fairy Tail's number one fan as well as the top reporter for Sorcerer Weekly."

"So it would appear," I said doubtfully.

"Oh, man. I can't tell you how amazing it is to meet you, Willy," said Jason, now having a notepad and pencil ready to write. "I've always been curious about how you ended up in the guild. However, I'm also aware that you've had quite the tragic past, but I won't be asking you anything about that. However I do want to know, is it true that you're a water dragon slayer and you once trained with one of the Ten Wizard Saints, known as Tu-Chi? And are you also Mirajane's as well as Elfman and Lisanna's childhood friend?"

Feeling overwhelmed by the bombardment of questions, I didn't know how to respond. Then Mira cut in.

"Now, hold on, Jason. This isn't exactly the time for an interview," she said. "Besides, didn't you say that you had to leave for a major scoop or something after the photo shoot?"

"Oh, heck! You're right, Mira!" Jason cried. "I gotta go! Thank you for your time, Mira! It was nice meeting you, Willy!"

He then dashed away about open the door, but then he looked back.

"One more thing, are you two an item? You know, boyfriend and girlfriend?" he asked.

At that moment, my cheeks grew hot, and I could feel my face turning bright red. Mira, on the other hand, was now a bit stern.

"Jason. Willy and I are just friends, you kidder," she smiled. "Now get going. You'll be late."

And with that, Jason left with a grin on his face shutting the door. Mira then sighed with exhaustion.

"Honestly. Jason's a good reporter, but sometimes he can be a bit annoying," she sighed.

I then handed a water bottle to her. "Here you go. Figured you'd be thirsty. "

Mira took the bottle, opened it, and took a few gulps. "Haah~ That hits the spot," she said with satisfaction. "Thank you very much, Willy."

"N-No problem," I replied. "So... is that a new swimsuit?"

"Yes. It's supposed to be a new one debuting in the market in a couple of days," said Mira. "Jason wanted me to model it for Sorcerer Weekly before the S-Class Trial."

"Well, it looks good on you," I said, trying not to stare. "It suits you even more than the first one you wore."

"Hey, Willy. Is something wrong?" asked Mira. "Distracted by something?"

"I-It's nothing. I'm fine," I said, trying not to sputter. "Fit as a fiddle."

"Willy, I really must apologize about Jason," said Mira. "I know that you don't like talking about your past very much, but Jason's always been the type of guy that always gets excited about everything regarding Fairy Tail, so much that he thinks that everything we do is cool, even though some of the things we do aren't as cool as he thinks they are."

"Oh, no. It's honestly no problem at all," I spoke shaking my head. "It's just... I didn't expect to be complimented so much by a single person. Heck, it's the first time some other citizen in Magnolia ever complimented me before."

"What do you mean by that?" asked Mira.

"Well, let's just say there are some people in this town that aren't too thrilled about me being with Fairy Tail," I said with a hint of bitterness. "I mean, I was once a mind-controlled dark mage that got off scot-free by the magic council. It's only natural that there would be some people who are either scared or displeased at me. I don't even know why Jason could think that I'm cool when in reality, I'm not. I'm don't even feel worthy of receiving such praise."

Mira then turned my head towards her, and I saw that her face was stern.

"You're wrong, Willy. You are cool," she said. "You may think that you haven't done anything worthy of praise, but it's the exact opposite. You're a valuable asset to the guild and are a great and kind person. Sure, there will be some people that think wrongly about you because of what happened in the past, but you shouldn't worry about what they think. People always have a nasty habit of judging, but it's a pity for them because they're so busy judging the outside, they become blind the real person inside. So who cares what they think, what matters is that you're a friend of Fairy Tail and you should be happy with who you are and not what these people think of you."

At those words, I felt my heart beat a bit quicker as I felt a warm, happy feeling in my chest, making a small smile worked its way to my cheeks.

Mira also smiled. "Now that's what I want to see," she said. "You're way cuter when you're smiling."

"C-Cute? Me?" I stammered. "Fl-Flattery will get you nowhere, you know!"

"Well, well. Aren't we being coy," joked Mira. "Anyway, I'm feeling a bit hungry after all that. What do you say I make us some lunch?"

"Sounds good to me," I said, now feeling some hunger. "Wanna eat in the guildhall?"

"Sure. Let me just get dressed first," said Mira, as she walked away. "I can't exactly cook in these clothes, no matter how sexy they make me. Mind waiting for a bit?"

I nodded in response, and then Mira left to get changed. As she left, I couldn't help but watch as she left admiring her in her swimsuit. Then, I remembered what Wendy asked me as well as Jason's last remarks echoing in my mind.

"Do you like Mira?"

"...are you two an item? You know, boyfriend and girlfriend?"

My cheeks immediately began to burn as I shook my head.

"No! No! No! Why'd they have to go and ask me that?! There's no way that I like Mira that way! At least... I don't think so..."

NO POV

In a faraway location, the ship belonging to Grimoire Heart was resting on the ground hidden away from prying eyes. A couple of guards dressed in black cloaks and wearing masks bearing the Grimoire Heart symbol, stood outside stood guard, making sure that no one came near the ship. For the moment, everything was silent, and things were as they should be. But then, they heard the sound of footsteps coming towards them. Sensing that it was an enemy, they immediately readied their weapons ready to attack.

"Halt! Who goes there?!" demanded one.

"Come out and show yourself!" yelled another.

The footsteps grew closer and closer until finally, a lone figure stepped out wearing nothing but a dark and baggy cloak hiding its body from view.

"Hello there," the cloaked figure greeted in a male voice, raising his hands as a greeting. "Please excuse my intrusion."

"Who are you?" demanded the first soldier. "And why have you come here?"

"I have some business with your Master," said the figure. "And I would like to talk to him. So if you would be so kind, please let me through."

"You think that we're just going to let you through just because you asked? You must be joking!" said a second soldier.

"And Master Hades has no time for the likes of you!" snapped a third. "Especially with a creepy thing like you!"

"Creepy? Now that hurts," the cloaked man spoke seeming to be hurt. "It's not like I have a choice hiding under a cloak like this. I mean I can't just show off my face in public, you know."

"OK. Now you're just talking nonsense," said the first soldier. "Since you're refusing to leave, then we'll have to beat some sense into you. Better say your prayers!"

"Please, let's not be hasty," said the figure. "I honestly didn't come here for a fight, so please calm yourselves. Note that if you intend to fight me, I won't hesitate to defend myself."

The soldiers weren't listening. They all readied their weapons, and all charged straight at the cloaked man ready to put him down the mysterious male stood there not making a move.

"Very well. Have it your way," he sighed. "And here I was hoping to keep things civil before my visit."

Hades sat on his throne as Ultear came up to the man.

"Master Hades, I come bearing good news," Ultear spoke. "We managed to find the last and final key."

"Very good, Ultear," said Hades. "Now that we have the final key, we can now enact our plan to awaken Zeref."

Then at that moment, they heard the sounds of footsteps coming up the stairs leading to the lower levels of the ships. At first, they thought that it was another member of their guild, but they were quick to find out that it wasn't. Out from the steps came the cloaked man dragging one of the soldiers by the scruff. Ultear was immediately on the defensive stepping in front of Hades.

"Well, now. It seems that we have a guest," said Hades with a calm expression.

"Hello there," greeted the cloaked man. "You must be Master Hades, the guild master and founder of Grimoire Heart if I'm not mistaken. It's truly an honor to finally meet you."

"I'd say that the pleasure's all mine, but I don't even know who or what I'm talking to," Hade said. "Not only that, but I'm surprised that you were able to make it in here even with our best surveillance."

"Well, it certainly was difficult," said the cloaked man. "Truth be told, I ran into some trouble with a couple of your soldiers. They refused to let me in to speak with you and even went as far as to attack me, so I had no choice but to teach them a lesson."

He then held up the soldier and dropped him to the floor seeming to be lifeless, while Ultear and Hades remained neutral.

"How interesting," said Ultear. "But if you're trying to show how strong you are by taking out our soldiers, but you'll have to be a little bit more ambitious than that."

The cloaked figure looked towards Ultear chuckling. "You must be Ultear, one of the Seven Kins of Purgatory, right? It's nice to meet you," he said. "May I say that you're quite the attractive woman. It makes me wonder where you got your good looks. Hmm. Oh, yes. You look just like your mother. Ur. It's as they say, like mother like daughter. I wouldn't be surprised if people were to confuse you with your mother."

At that moment, Ultear's eyes narrowed in a glare. "You dare speak in her name in my prescense? You must have some sort of a death wish," she spoke coldly.

"My apologies. I suppose I touched a nerve when I shouldn't have," the cloaked figure said. "Please forgive me. I suppose I touched a nerve when I shouldn't have. If you're looking for a fight, I'd understand, but just know that if you intend to fight me, I won't show any mercy."

As the two gazed at each other, the cloak on the mysterious figure began to dance as he began exterting his magic power while raising his hand. At that moment, Hades cut in extering his magic power hismelf.

"Stand down, both of you," ordered Hades."I will not allow any fighting in my ship."

There was a brief silence as Hades as well as the cloaked figure stopped exerting their powers.

H"You seem to have done your homework, Stranger," Hades spoke. "Not to mention, that you were able to infiltrate your way in my ship without anyone's detection, and you're also quite the capable wizard. Not many people would have the nerve to do something like this. Color me impressed."

"You have my thanks, Hades," said the cloaked man. "Now then, to come straight to the point, a word from the grapevine says that you and your guild are up to something big. Something about retrieving a certain black wizard from a certain location. Is that true?"

"If it was, how could you possibly know something like that?" asked Ultear. "No one but the members of Grimoire Heart and Master Hades should know about our plan."

"Let's just say that I have my sources, my dear Ultear," said the cloaked man. "But believe me when I say that I have no intention of getting in the way of that said plan. However, I would appreciate it if you could let me in on this plan of yours."

"And why should I allow you to take part in our plan?" asked Hades. "What could you possibly hope to gain?"

"An excellent question," said the cloaked man. "Regarding you and your guild seeking the black wizard, there's someone I need to find as well, and I could use the generous help of your guild to help find the said person who is also going to be at the same location as is the Black Wizard. Therefore, I propose that we form an alliance. You help me, and I'll help you."

Hades hummed as he stroked his beard in thought.

"Now, I know what you're thinking; what's in it for you?" the cloaked man went on. "Well, if you cooperate with me, I will reward you handsomely with whatever your heart desires, whether be jewel, magic, or even information."

"Information? What sort of information could you provide for us?" asked Ultear skeptically.

"I think it's something that you and your guild would be quite interested in, Ultear," said the cloaked man. "Information regarding a magic that is of great importance to Hades here. The magic known as... The Primordial Magic."

Ultear's eyes widened in shock and Hades stared at the man his eye twitching in reaction.

"The Primordial Magic?" repeated Ultear. "Now I know you're lying. What would you know about that?"

"More than you realize, my dear Ultear," said the cloaked man. "I've been doing research on magic for many years because I too have something I desire with every fiber of my being, and while I searched, I came across an ancient text that spoke about the primordial magic, and what I learned was truly something interesting. Something that your master would be interested in."

"And what would be the point of this said info now?" asked Hades. "Especially since I'm so close to getting my hands on the primordial magic?"

"The only thing I can tell you about the info I found is that part of it has to do with the Black Wizard Zeref," said the cloaked man. "In order for you to attain that which you seek, Zeref isn't the only component that is required to obtain it. You need something more. However, I won't divulge any further as to what I found out. But, if you cooperate with me in capturing my target, I will tell you all that I know."

Hades and Ultear were silent not sure what to make of this. After a few seconds, Hades stood up breaking the silence.

"I only have one question for this little proposal of yours," said Hades. "Who exactly is this person you're seeking? It won't do me much good if I don't know who he or she looks like."

The mysterious man then dug into his cloak and took out a photograph and then flung it to Hades. The Master of Grimoire Heart took one look at the photo and then looked back towards the cloaked man.

"Very well then," said Hades. "We have an agreement. But know this; if you even think about betraying me or if I find out you're lying to me, you won't live to see tomorrow. Do I make myself clear?"

"Crystal," said the cloaked man. "I appreciate the help, Master Hades, and I thank you for your time."

"However, if we're to work together in this alliance of yours, I would at least like to see the face and the person of whom I've allied myself with," said Hades. "Would care to tell me who you are?"

The cloaked man was silent for a moment. Then he took off the hood of his cloak revealing his face. A familiar face that was elderly, but it also had some slight vitality in it. He also had deep blue eyes that were calculating as well as mysterious, long silver-gray hair tied into a simple ponytail, and a beard that grown a bit longer since the last time.

"Well, I'm not really fond of giving my name, willy-nilly," said the man. "But you can call me, Silver Beard."

WILLY'S POV

I was now back in my room lying on my bed. Evening had arrived and I was feeling a bit irritated with myself. The reason? Well, I was so wrapped up in enjoying Mira's cooking, as well as the other antics in the Fairy Tail guild, that I forgot that I was supposed to be digging some info about Mest. Now it was late and everyone was most likely asleep.

"Man, I feel like such an idiot," I groaned to myself. "I mean I'll admit Mira's cooking was delicious, but now it's late, and I'm still no closer to finding out who Mest is than I already know."

I then thought back on what I knew about Mest, but the only things that came to mind were what I already knew. He was close to winning the S-Class Trial, but failed and according to him, he was also Mystogan's pupil, which that in of itself didn't sit right with me. From what I've been told about Mystogan based on what I learned and from back in Edolas, he didn't look like the kind of person that would take a pupil to Earthland, especially since he had to make sure to keep it a secret from Faust. Then again, I hardly knew anything about him, so I wasn't sure if what I thought was true or not.

I then rested my wrist onto my forehead as I stared up at the ceiling feeling tired. This was getting way too complicated, and I had no idea what action I should take. Truth be told, I wanted to go out right now and find Mest, and question him. However, at the same time I couldn't. If I did, then most likely everyone in Fairy Tail would think that I've gone off the deep end and would turn against me. I also remembered the words that Tu-Chi said to me the other day.

"What you know is dangerous to your enemy. What you think you know is dangerous to you."

"Master Tu-Chi's right. I know too little about Mest, so I can't excactly point the guilty finger at him," I thought. "And as much as I hate to admit it, I'll have to wait and see if I can find some more info when the time comes. Until then, I better be on my toes, especially since Wendy's his partner."

Feeling a bit bored and wanting something to take my mind off of things for a bit, I went down stairs to check my mail to see if I got anything new. My mailbox was just by the entrance on the first floor along with the other residents in a group of lockers, so it was a bit of a pain, but I suppose it was good for making sure the mail was secure. I had just gotten downstairs when I came across the landlady, sitting at her desk reading the paper. Hearing my footsteps, the landlady looked up.

"Good evening, Willy," she greeted. "How goes it?"

"Just fine, Ma'am," I greeted back. "Anything new in the paper today?"

"Meh, nothing much," said the landlady. "Except that the Magic Council has been erecting stricter laws lately according to the paper. I swear, what has this world come to?"

Feeling a bit curious, I couldn't help but peek at the cover of the newspaper. On it, was Gran Doma and the other council members along with a few soldiers. Then suddenly, something caught my eye. Standing next to Akzuinu in the picture were two men that looked familiar. One of them was, of course, Lahar, but the other one made my eyes widen.

"Landlady, let me see that newspaper," I said.

The Landlady then gave me the paper, and I looked at the cover very closely. Sure enough in the photo, and standing next to Lahar was a certain man with scars on the left side of his face. As soon as I saw him, I felt like something just clicked in my head, like the mental block had been lifted. Everything now made sense, and the truth hit me like an Iron Fist to the face.

"Hey, Willy. Is something the matter?" I heard the Landlady ask me. "You're looking kind of pale."

"Oh, it's nothing, Landlady," I said, faking a smile and setting down the paper. "I'm fine. I just remembered that I have to get ready for bed. Night."

As I went back upstairs, I now felt sure of one thing, my suspicions about Mest were as I feared, and I knew what I had to do.

"Looks like I'm going on a cruise tomorrow."

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Dragoman signing off!