"Speech"

'Thoughts'

"Magic"

Chapter 10: Adviceblessed

The wreckage of a dark guild's headquarters smoldered behind, debris scattered across the landscape like the remnants of a violent storm. Naruto and Brandish walked side by side, the sounds of their shoes crunching against the rubble being the only noise breaking the woodlen silence.

Brandish let out an exaggerated sigh, rubbing her temples as if she were nursing a headache. "Why do I keep bothering with these missions? Seriously, your guild and Phantom Lord made this agreement and we end up doing all the heavy lifting. Ugh, what a waste of time."

Naruto chuckled, giving her a playful nudge. "Come on, it wasn't that bad. I mean, you barely even lifted a finger."

"That's the problem." Brandish huffed, flipping her hair over her shoulder. "I have to be here. Doing work. I'm not built for this constant physical labor. This is like the fifth shitty dark guild in like two weeks. It was fun at first. Now it's just a pain."

Naruto raised an eyebrow, feigning concern. "Yeah, must've been really tough, standing around watching me handle everything. You poor thing."

Brandish shot him a look, though there was a faint smirk tugging at her lips. "Careful, Starblessed. I might just shrink you down to the size of a bug for that comment."

Naruto grinned. "Oh no, anything but that! Then you'd have to carry me around. Could you imagine the horror?"

"Ugh." Brandish groaned and Naruto's smirk widened. "I swear, the only reason I don't is because you'd probably find a way to make it fun."

They kept walking, the sun beginning to dip low on the horizon, casting long shadows over the ruined buildings. Naruto glanced over at her, noticing the slight slump in her usually confident posture. He frowned a little, thinking for a moment before speaking up.

"Hey, I know today wasn't exactly thrilling for you." He said, his tone softening. "But I'll make it up to you."

Brandish glanced sideways at him, her curiosity piqued. "Oh? And how exactly do you plan to do that?"

Naruto flashed her a lopsided grin, rubbing the back of his neck. "Well, how about this? You pick what we do next. No more boring missions, no dark guilds. Just something fun. Whatever you want."

Brandish raised an eyebrow, skeptical at the idea. Yet intrigued enough to see what he was thinking. "Anything?"

"Anything." Naruto promised, his blue eyes twinkling mischievously.

She tilted her head, considering the offer, then gave a small, satisfied nod. "Alright. I'll hold you to that. And don't think for a second that I'll go easy on you."

Naruto laughed. "Wouldn't expect anything less."

(Magnolia)

The midday sun hung high over Magnolia, casting a warm glow on the busy streets filled with people shopping, chatting, and enjoying the atmosphere. Naruto and Brandish strolled through the bustling market district, with stalls lining either side of the street selling all sorts of goods from fresh produce, baked goods, and street food that filled the air with delicious smells.

Naruto walked with a relaxed stride, hands behind his head as he glanced around at the market's hustle. Beside him, Brandish was decidedly less enthusiastic, her arms crossed over her chest, her expression a mix of mild irritation and boredom. Today was meant as a shopping spree for Brandish. A day of relaxation and frivolous spending.

It was meant to annoy Naruto, but frustratingly enough. He was having fun.

"How are you always so goddamn chipper?" She muttered, giving him a side glance. "Here I thought dragging you shopping would be adequate payback for all these recent missions you've dragged me on."

Naruto chuckled, knowing full well she wasn't that annoyed, but he played along. "Hey, I don't drag you. You could've said no, but I'll take any excuse to spend time with you! No complaints at all."

Brandish blushed her eyes moving down to the cobblestone. "I guess we have that in common." She stopped in front of a stall selling colorful candies and sweet pastries. Her tone shifted as she pointed rather demandingly at the goods. "Those look great."

Naruto flashing his usual grin grabbed his pouch of jewels. "Well which one do you want?"

Brandish eyed the array of sweets with a calculated look, picking up a bag of sugar-coated fruits and a few honey buns. "This should be a good start."

Naruto blinked. "A start?"

"Don't go stingy on me Starblessed. You agreed to this."

Naruto sighed in defeat. "You're right."

Brandish smirking led Naruto from stall to stall, continuing to select snacks that caught her eye. Everything from crispy rice cakes, a couple of soft mochi, and some freshly baked bread rolls. Naruto of course paid for it all without another single complaint, though he couldn't help but tease her along the way.

"Y'know, for someone who acts so disinterested, you've got quite the sweet tooth." He said, glancing at the bags she carried.

Brandish shot him an annoyed look."Is that a problem?"

Naruto laughed and held his hands up in defense. "No! It's completely fine."

They turned a corner, and the smell of ramen wafted through the air from a food stall. Naruto's stomach rumbled, and he eyed his favorite dish hungrily. "Ooh, maybe we can grab a bowl or two?"

Brandish rolled her eyes. "I'm the one being compensated, remember? Stick to the deal."

Naruto pouted playfully. "But I'm hungry too! C'mon! It won't take long."

She gave him a long, measuring look before sighing. "Fine." Brandish then stabbed a finger into his side. "Make it quick."

He didn't need to be told twice. He jogged up to the stall and quickly took a seat. Ordering a bowl of ramen without hesitation.

Brandish watched over his shoulder with half interest and half impatience. Yet to her surprise the piping hot bowl of noodles came quickly and was devoured even quicker.

"Okay maybe you were ri…" Brandish began, but was stopped by Naruto releasing a loud sigh of satisfaction.

"Old man this ramen is amazing! Give me three more bowls!"

Brandish felt her eye twitch. Standing behind and watching as three bowls turned into five and then more quickly stacked into a pile. It wasn't until Naruto started his fourteenth bowl that she started to lose her composure.

"Naruto." Brandish pouted in annoyance as she tapped the boy on the back. Yet Naruto, completely lost in the ramen, didn't even give her attention, instead he kept eating.

Stacking bowl after bowl with speed that was making the cook sweat to keep up and a crowd to gather and cheer him on. Brandish feeling herself surrounded and slowly being pushed away by the cheering crowd finally lost her temper.

"Naruto, are you done?" Brandish whined as she was getting pushed back by a chanting crowd yelling for the blond wizard to keep eating.

Eventually the crowd expanded and grew large enough to where the oblivious Naruto and frustrated Brandish were completely separated.

"I've had enough of this." She said, brushing a stray lock of hair from her face. "I'm going off on my own for a while. Don't follow me!"

Naruto, having a noodle hanging out of his mouth, didn't know what was happening until the cook, seeing his companions' frustration, pointed to the retreating Brandish. Naruto glancing over his shoulder slurped the noodle and saw Brandish angrily stomping around the corner. Disappearing from his line of sight all together.

"What's up with her?" Naruto mumbled in confusion, while deciding to pay his tab and follow after the girl.

Yet as Naruto pondered her sudden exit, two familiar voices pulled him from his thoughts. Catching him long before he could follow after Brandish.

"Oi, Naruto!" Macao called out, waving from across the street. He and Wakaba, his ever-present smoking companion, strolled over, both grinning like they had seen something juicy.

Naruto blinked and watched the smirking men walk over to him. "Oh, how's it going?"

"Looks like there is trouble in paradise, kid." Wakaba greeted, his pipe bobbing in his mouth. "We just saw that. Brandish giving ya the cold shoulder!"

Naruto gave them a sheepish grin. "I actually don't know what exactly happened. She just kinda stormed off."

Macao chuckled, clapping Naruto on the back. "That's women for you. Looks like you've got your hands full with that one. How long have you and that little beauty been together?"

Wakaba nodded sagely, puffing smoke from his pipe. "Quite the looker, that Brandish. You really managed to reel in a big fish there."

Naruto blushed a little, waving his hands defensively. "It's not like that! Me and Brandish aren't together!"

Macao and Wakaba exchanged knowing looks, their grins widening.

"But you live together?" Macao began with a perverted grin. "Don't you?"

Naruto nodded. "Yeah we do."

Wakaba chuckled at the response. "You sly dog."

"What does that mean?"

Macao shook his head. "There are a lot of spicy rumors going around the guild about you two. I didn't think you were one to use a girl for such perversions."

"Wait guild rumors?"

Wakaba laughed loudly. "More like magical community gossip! You should read Sorcerer Weekly kid! The great Starblessed and his mysterious girlfriend are making waves."

"Oh god." Naruto grumbled with his shoulders slumped. Wondering if Brandish had seen or heard any of these rumors. "Just when I thought things couldn't get more difficult."

"Difficult, huh?" Macao teased. "What's going on kid? You can trust us."

Wakaba leaned in, smirking. "Yeah, share with us your woes! You should know me and Macao are masters of the female heart."

Naruto groaned, rubbing his temples. "Okay you wanna know the truth?"

Macao and Wakaba both leaned in with nods. Making Naruto sigh and subconsciously grab Aquarius for support.

"I'm way in over my head." Naruto admitted desperately.

Macao lightly laughed. "Come on kid. It can't be that bad? Sure she's a looker, but you're a catch yourself!"

"Yeah don't be so down about a little hiccup." Wakaba added through a puff of smoke.

"It's not just a hiccup. I'm completely clueless as to what I'm doing. I lost my parents when I was young and I hardly have many memories about them. Aquarius was essentially the one who raised me." Naruto paused for a second as his guard was completely lowered. A nervous blush across his face. "So I was never taught how to treat a girl. You know, the kinda advice a father would give. So despite me starting to get feelings for Brandish… I don't know what to do."

That caught the two older wizards off guard. Macao and Wakaba glanced at each other, their expressions shifting from teasing to something more thoughtful.

"Well." Macao started, crossing his arms. "The first thing you need to understand is that every girl's different. My wife likes to act tough, but deep down, she appreciates it when I do small things to show I care. Ask her about her day or do a small act of love like making dinner or getting a gift. Brandish probably has her own preferences for these things, even if she doesn't say it."

Wakaba nodded, taking a long drag from his pipe. "Yeah, and patience is key. Women like Brandish. The strong and independent type. They don't want to feel like they're being handled. Give her space, but be there when she needs ya. Don't push too hard. Find your balance. If you're having feelings don't come on too strong immediately."

Naruto frowned in thought. "So, you're saying I should just… give her time? But she's always so hard to read. I never know if she's serious or not."

Macao chuckled. "Ah, the classic mixed signals. Don't worry, that's normal. Just stay yourself. She'll come around if she likes you. And if she doesn't. We'll then it just wasn't meant to be! Trust me kid, I went through many heartbreaks before finding my wife."

Wakaba grinned. "Exactly. And hey, if she keeps giving you a hard time, you can always fall back on humor. A good laugh works wonders. You've got that goofy charm, use it to your advantage."

Naruto let out a small laugh. "Goofy charm, huh? I guess I can try that."

Macao smirked, patting him on the shoulder again. "Trust me, kid, you'll figure it out. Just don't overthink it. I can tell that girl likes you more than anyone else. Just keep being yourself."

Naruto nodded, feeling a little more confident. "Thanks, guys. I appreciate the advice."

"Anytime!" Wakaba said, blowing out another puff of smoke. "Now, if you ever need tips on how to survive a woman's wrath, come find me. Got plenty of experience with that."

Naruto laughed as the two older wizards waved and walked off, leaving him standing in the market, still trying to wrap his head around what they said.

"Be myself, huh? I guess I can do that." Naruto muttered to himself before glancing in the direction where Brandish had disappeared.

With a grin, he set off, feeling slightly better about his confusion and decided he should try and track down Brandish. Naruto wandered through Magnolia's streets, still deep in thought after his conversation with Macao and Wakaba.

The town buzzed around him, but he was distracted, mulling over their advice. As he turned a corner, lost in his musings, he nearly bumped into someone small and familiar.

"Well, if it isn't Naruto Heartfilia." A familiar upbeat voice began from below.

Naruto snapped back to reality to see none other than Makarov Dreyar, Fairy Tail's master, standing before him with a knowing grin. Despite his short stature, the old man radiated an air of warmth.

"Master Makarov!" Naruto greeted, quickly straightening up. "Sorry about that. I wasn't paying attention."

Makarov waved a hand dismissively. "No harm done, boy. You look like you've got something on your mind. Care to share?"

Naruto scratched the back of his head awkwardly. "Well… I was thinking over some advice Macao and Wakaba gave me."

Makarov paled. "And what did those idiots tell you?"

Naruto laughed and rubbed the back of his head. "They gave me some advice about Brandish. I'm starting to have feelings I don't know what to do with."

The old man raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "I hope they didn't give you any perverted advice. Brandish is a nice young lady and should be treated as such."

Naruto shook his head and held his hands out. "No, they gave me some honest and good advice."

Makarov scoffed. "That's a first. Tell me my boy. What are these feelings you're having? Perhaps I can give some insight as well."

Naruto hesitated for a moment, but then sighed. "Me and Brandish… We've been spending a lot of time together on missions, and I can't tell if she likes me or if she's just annoyed all the time. We met under complicated circumstances and things aren't exactly normal between us."

"How exactly did you and young Brandish come together?"

"Naruto arched his brow. "Truthfully? She snuck into my apartment and tried to kill me."

Makarov seemed surprised by Naruto's causal explanation. "An odd start to a budding romance. Why did she try to kill you?"

"It's a very long story. The short version was she believed my mother killed hers. When the truth was that my mother on her deathbed asked for Brandish's mom to raise me. Of course someone else, one of my mother's insane servants, killed her before me and Brandish could meet."

"So a misunderstanding almost turned fatal."

Naruto nodded and his hand brushed his side. "She did stab me pretty good, but Aquarius explained to us what really happened. She then kinda strong armed Brandish into staying around. At times I can't tell if she stays around because of Aquarius or if she actually enjoys being around me."

Makarov chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling. "Ah. That one's definitely a handful, no doubt about it. But I've seen enough of you two to know she enjoys your company… It isn't a secret she hates our guild and most of the members. Still she clearly holds a fondness for you."

Naruto frowned, thinking it over. "Well she kinda stormed off earlier when I wasn't paying attention. I'm not good at this master. Like I told Macao and Wakaba earlier. I was raised by Aquarius and was never shown how to treat a girl by my parents."

The old man nodded thoughtfully. "Women are tricky, my boy. Experience makes things easier, but until that experience comes, just be more compassionate. Truth be told, that girl is probably just as confused as you are, if not more. Remember you said you've lost your parents, but so did she, my boy. You at least had Aquarius when she didn't."

Naruto frowned. "I didnt think about it like that… But how do I be more compassionate? How do I show her my feelings without scaring her off?"

Makarov smiled. "You're already doing it. The fact that you're thinking about this means you care. But actions speak louder than words. Do small things for her. Show her you're reliable, that you respect her space. Over time, she'll come to trust you more. Don't force anything. Just let it happen naturally."

Naruto leaned against a nearby wall, feeling a little relieved. "So, no grand gestures, huh? Just… be there?"

"Exactly!" Makarov confirmed. "Women like Brandish are sharp. They'll see through anything that's too forced or over-the-top. Be genuine. That's what matters most. You've come this far doing that without even knowing it."

Naruto grinned. "I can do that. Thanks, Master."

Makarov chuckled, crossing his arms. "You remind me a little of myself at your age. Always chasing after something or someone. Just remember, relationships are built over time. It's not a race. You don't have to declare your love right away. Let things take their course. When the time is right you'll know it!"

Naruto let out a sigh of relief, feeling like a weight had been lifted off his shoulders. "I get it now. I'll just keep doing what I'm doing and see where it goes."

Makarov gave him a pat on the back. "Good lad. You've got a good heart, Naruto. Brandish will see that in time. Just be patient and don't forget to take care of yourself too."

Naruto straightened up, feeling more confident than he had in days. "Thanks, Master. I'll keep that in mind."

Makarov gave him a fatherly smile. "Anytime, boy. Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got a meeting with Mirajane about next week's party."

"Party?" Naruto repeated in confusion.

Makarov nodded with a wide grin. "Fairy Tail and Phantom Lord are having a joint party. A celebration to all the work we have been doing on taking down dark guilds." The master leaned in with a wink. "A perfect time to have a cute date with you. Especially one that has been helping you be a big factor in taking down those dark guilds."

Naruto blushed at the idea.

Makarov threw his head back with loud laughter and waved Naruto goodbye as he walked off. "Best of luck my boy! I'll be rooting for you two!"

(With Brandish)

Her heels clacking hard against the cobblestone streets. Brandish marched away from Naruto and clenched her fists. She was annoyed, frustrated and most importantly confused. Struggling with emotions and feelings that she didn't really understand.

"Stupid idiot." Brandish grumbled as she kicked a stone across the road. "I should be training with old man August to become a shield of the Empire. Not running around this shitty kingdom fawning for attention."

Brandish paused. The words were easy to say, but in reality she didn't really mean them. She could leave any moment she wished. Yet she wouldn't. Brandish truly enjoyed her time with Naruto. Truthfully she would pick that annoying blond over her homeland anyday.

Still despite knowing that without question, Brandish didn't understand why she couldn't communicate those feelings. She couldn't grasp what she was feeling. She cherished her time fondly with Naruto and regardless of her constant complaints. He really had placed her life into a new perspective. Still she couldn't figure out if this was what it was like to have a friend or if her feelings meant so much more.

It was times like this that Brandish missed her mother more than anything. As having someone to talk about these feelings would be rather helpful. Unfortunately Brandish only had Naruto these days.

"Why am I like this?" Brandish asked herself softly.

A small hum from behind grabbed her attention. "Well tell me what's wrong and maybe I can help?"

Brandish spun around. An annoyed look spread like wildfire across her face as she saw the crimson haired queen of Fairy Tail. Erza Scarlet. A knowing smile plastered across her delicate features.

"Do you always listen in on other people?" Brandish grumbled.

Erza giggled softly at the comment. "Do you always mumble to yourself angrily in public?"

Brandish frowned. She always got a strange sense of familiarity from the redhead. She didn't know why, but it was there. Of course that familiarity as of late had been overshadowed by annoyance.

"Don't tell me you're fighting with Naruto?" Erza suddenly chimed in, which only further annoyed Brandish.

"What's it to you?" The green haired teenager snapped back with a pout.

Erza sighed and strolled beside Brandish. "Naruto has become a good friend since joining Fairy Tail. Almost like a goofy little brother." She then smirked and teased Brandish with a pat on the head. "Don't glare so much. I'm not stealing your boyfriend."

"He isn't my boyfriend." Brandish huffed as she swatted Erza away.

Erza's lips pushed into a knowing smile. "Right. You just live together and spend every second of the day together."

Brandish narrowed her eyes. "He. Isn't. My-.."

Erza turned around and cupped a hand over her eyes. "Why is Naruto walking around town naked?"

Brandish having her eyes wide and jaw dropped. Glanced over her shoulder. Finding no sign of Naruto whatsoever. Something that made Brandish blink before looking at Erza. Who was using a hand to stifle her laughter.

"You seem rather interested in him for not being his girlfriend."

"I don't like you." Brandish admitted bluntly.

Erza waved a hand at the girl. "Oh don't be like that! Come here." Erza began as she walked over to a bench and motioned for Brandish to join her. "Let's have a girls chat."

Brandish debated on walking off, but at the same time a voice inside told her to just go along with what Erza wanted. After all, Brandish was wanting someone to speak with that wasn't Naruto.

"Fine."

Erza beamed as the girl joined her. "So let's talk. What upset you?"

Folding her arms and refusing to meet Erza's eyes. Brandish frowned before speaking. "Me and Naruto were having a day together. You know, exploring the town and buying sweets."

Erza rested her chin on her hand before leaning in. "So a date?"

Brandish shot Erza a glare. "Not a date. Compensation for him dragging me on so many missions lately."

"Again, that's a date." Erza repiled.

"On our not date." Brandish began sternly. "Naruto ignored me for some ramen and I got annoyed. So I walked off hoping he would get the message and follow after me."

Erza shook her head at the girl. "Brandish, I've learned Naruto is good at many things, but understanding a woman's intentions isn't one of them. If you were expecting him to pick up on hints, you're going to be waiting a long time."

Brandish clenched her fists again, clearly frustrated. "I know that... but it's so stupid! Why do I care if he gives me attention or not? I shouldn't care."

Erza gave her a thoughtful look before leaning back on the bench. "It's not stupid to want attention from someone you care about. And from what I've seen, you care about him a lot. Actually he might be the only person you care about."

Brandish's shoulders tensed as she stared ahead. "I don't even know if it's that. I've never had... whatever this is. We're just together all the time, and it's comfortable. Then something like this happens, and I don't know how to deal with it. I feel like I'm losing control and I like being in control of my life."

Erza smiled softly. "Feelings have a way of doing that. They don't always make sense, but that doesn't mean they're wrong. It sounds like you're struggling with how close you've gotten to Naruto."

Brandish looked down at her hands, the emotions warring in her chest. "I thought I was fine with it, just following along with him wherever he went, but now it feels like... I don't know, like I'm not enough for him to notice when I'm upset. And that makes me angry."

Erza placed a hand on Brandish's shoulder, her expression serious but gentle. "You are enough. Naruto's just Naruto. He's dense when it comes to things like this. He's probably not even aware that you're feeling this way. Who only knows the effect his memory loss has had on him."

Brandish sighed. "He has been through a lot. That much I know… Still I really only know about the part of his life that involves my mother's death. Outside of that I really don't know anything else. For now our relationship is built on the mutual known fact that we should have been raised together."

Erza nodded. "I've heard rumors about Naruto in the past. Events that got him his nickname."

"Starblessed?" Brandish mumbled with slight annoyance.

"You should ask him about it sometime. Rumors are normally blown out of proportions. However, if the stories I've heard are true. It could give you more insight into understanding him."

Brandish looked skeptical. "And why should I care about that?"

Erza smiled softly. "It will help you better understand where your feelings stand. How you value Naruto as a friend and perhaps even something more."

Brandish let out a long sigh, some of her frustration ebbing away. "This all sounds like such a headache."

Erza shook her head. "Answer me this Brandish. If you were to see Naruto and let's say Mirajane walking down the street. Holding hands and even sharing a kiss. Would that upset you?"

Brandish thought about that for a moment. Finding her chest wrenching at the thought. "N…" She began before sighing and slumping her shoulders. "Yeah it would. Naruto has been nothing except kind to me. For fucks sake I stabbed him and tried to kill him when we first met. Yet despite that he's treated me far better than I deserve. So yeah it would upset me for someone to take him away."

"Then that should tell you that your feelings are more serious than you let on." Erza said softly. "You need to take time with Naruto and really evaluate what that feeling is. Then once you've decided, make your move."

"And what should I do?"

"Finding him and apologizing for getting frustrated is a start."

Brandish closed her eyes, feeling a little more grounded now. "I'll... try to talk to him. I don't want to keep feeling like this."

Erza smiled warmly. "Good. When you eventually decide what your feelings mean. We can talk about advice for moving forward."

Brandish nodded, her frustration slowly being replaced with resolve. "Thanks, Erza. I didn't think I'd ever say this, but... talking to you actually helped."

Erza laughed lightly. "I'm glad I could help. If you ever need to talk again, you know where to find me."

Brandish stood, feeling a bit lighter than before. "I'll keep that in mind." She gave Erza a final nod before turning to leave, her thoughts clearer now.

Yet before she could make it too far Erza called out. "Oh Brandish one more thing."

Brandish glanced back. Stunned at the vicious glare the woman was giving her.

"Hurt Naruto ever again. No matter if it's physical or emotional, I will make you pay."

Brandish was strong. Far more than most. Yet she understood one thing at that moment. Despite her power and ability. Erza would make good on her threat no matter what. Something that Brandish didn't exactly mind as what she spoke next wasn't something she would have said months ago. It was something she never imagined saying.

"Trust me Erza. If I do ever hurt him. I would accept any and all punishment."

(With Naruto)

Naruto once again being left alone sighed and placed his hands into his pockets. His body was already moving as he decided he needed to try and track Brandish down. Yet as he walked. His three jingling keys glittered with light. Then before he even knew what was happening three small balls of light floated by his head. His Celestial Spirits Aquarius, Libra, and Virgo. The trio appeared, much smaller than their usual forms, floating around him like tiny guides.

Aquarius was the first to speak up, her arms crossed and her expression as sharp as ever. "I've noticed you've already managed to tick that little brat off. That actually took longer than I expected."

Naruto sighed. "Thanks for the support Aquarius. Why are you three here anyway?"

Aquarius rolled her eyes. "Obviously because our wizard needs our help, idiot. We aren't just used for combat. You've gone to those fool men instead of us."

Naruto swatted away in annoyance at the mermaid. "It seems like you're just here to insult me."

Libra floated beside Naruto, her tone much lighter. "I think you've already been given good advice. You just need the right balance, Naruto. Be honest, but also consider her feelings. Maybe she's not ready to hear it just yet, but that doesn't mean she's not interested. It's all about timing. So when you find Brandish just ask her how she is feeling. Be your normal compassionate self."

Virgo, hovering with her usual deadpan expression, interjected quietly. "And no copulating!"

Naruto nearly tripped over his own feet. "I'm not even talking about that, Virgo! I'm just trying to figure out how to handle things without ruining it."

Aquarius, as brash as ever, scoffed. "Please, she probably wouldn't mind if you made a move. She's the type to give it right back to you if she wasn't interested. You're overthinking this." The mermaid then huffed in annoyance and looked off. "I should know. I've practically raised you both."

Libra chimed in, her voice more soothing. "Or, you could simply keep building the relationship slowly. Let things develop naturally. You two already have a bond from everything you've developed so far. Strengthen that first."

Naruto sighed, running a hand through his hair. "That's what Master Makarov and the others said too. But I can't help thinking she's just annoyed with me half the time."

Libra gave a soft smile. "Annoyance can sometimes mask other feelings. Just keep being yourself, and she'll come around. And don't rush anything. You have time. Celestial King above Naruto. You both are only sixteen."

Aquarius crossed her arms, looking as blunt as ever. "Or you can stop being so indecisive and just ask her what she wants. Layla was sleeping with your father at your age. Stop acting like you're a child and go get busy."

Naruto shuttered. "I didn't need to hear that about my parents."

Virgo drifted closer, her tone still bland but slightly more insistent. "No intercourse master!"

Naruto groaned. "Seriously, Virgo, stop saying that. That's not what this is about!"

Aquarius smirked. "You say that now, but give it time. You've got that 'charming idiot' thing going for you. It'll happen eventually, whether you plan it or not."

Naruto flushed red at that, feeling the heat rise to his cheeks. "I'm not… This isn't about… that! I just want to make sure I'm not screwing up with her. I'm really starting to like her a lot!"

Libra chuckled softly. "Relax, Naruto. You're doing fine. Just be yourself, and don't try too hard to force anything. Brandish will appreciate the real you, not some version you think you need to be. Take all the advice you've been given today and keep being yourself."

Aquarius sighed dramatically. "Well, I've said my piece. If you're too dense to take my advice, that's your problem. But don't come crying to me when you mess it up." The spirit rolled her eyes in annoyance. "I'll just shut my mouth and keep being your fucking weapon."

Virgo hovered close again, repeating with stern finality. "And no sex with Brandish!"

Naruto rubbed his temples, feeling completely exasperated. "I'm not trying to have sex with Brandish!"

A familiar huff came from behind, which made Naruto freeze, Aquarius smirk, Libra sigh and Virgo pout. As standing behind Naruto with her arms crossed was Brandish.

"Oh? Really now?" Brandish began her tone making her emotions completely unreadable to Naruto. "Am I not pretty enough for you, oh great Starblessed?"

Naruto spun on his heel and shook his head. "No it's not what you think!" The Celestial Wizard shot a glare at his spirits. "These three were just teasing me and you know what let me close their gates!"

Aquarius huffed as she shimmered away, while Libra gave Naruto an apologetic gaze. Virgo before vanishing zipped into Brandish's personal space. Jabbing a finger at the green haired girl.

"No intercourse!"

Naruto stood there, watching the tiny forms of his spirits shimmer out of existence, leaving him alone once again. He took a deep breath, the lingering embarrassment making him want to crawl into a hole, but Libra's words echoed in his mind. Words combined with the advice he was given earlier gave him the confidence to push forward.

"Hey, Brandish, listen. I'm sorry." Naruto paused over his words for a second. Her cold stare made him slightly nervous. "I don't know what I did earlier, but I know I managed to upset you. Those three were just giving me advice. Just… You know how my spirits can be. Still they did tell me I should apologize for my earlier actions."

Brandish's expression didn't change immediately, but after a moment, she sighed. "You really are an idiot sometimes." She muttered, though her tone wasn't harsh. "Still I'm just as much if not bigger of an idiot. Truth be told I should be the only one saying sorry."

Naruto blinked. "What are you talking about? You're incredible! You're anything but an idiot!"

Brandish sighed again, this time deeper, as if trying to gather her thoughts. She still didn't look at him directly, her gaze fixed somewhere in the distance. Almost as if she was trying to fight off a blush. "You didn't really do anything wrong… but you just don't get it, do you?"

Naruto frowned, stepping a little closer. "Get what?"

Brandish's lips pressed into a thin line, and for a moment, she was silent. Then, she finally turned to face him. "Earlier I got upset because you weren't giving me attention. So I thought if I stomped off you would chase after me and give me the attention I wanted. It was childish and selfish of me."

Naruto opened his mouth to respond, but she continued before he could speak.

"Listen Naruto, you told me about how you don't know how to behave around girls. That you were never taught by your parents. Well I'm in the same boat as you." Her voice was sharp, but underneath it, there was something else. Something softer. "Still I want to be better. You've been nothing except kind to me and you deserve better."

Naruto stood there, absorbing her words. He hadn't thought of it like that. "Well if it's any consolation I appreciate those words. I'll be better for you too."

Brandish smiled softly. One of her very rare and real smiles. "You stupid boy." She mumbled softly, her body bumping into his. "You're already the best."

Naruto smiled and slung an arm around Brandish. "Hey, how about we go to the guild? We can eat some snacks and you can make Natsu's head the size of a barrel. We can have a laugh watching him run around."

Brandish nodded with a laugh. Her body subconsciously leaned into his. "I would like that. Also I'd like for you to tell me more about your past."

Naruto rubbed his chin. "Well it's not like I don't want to, but the majority of the memories I have. Well that's all stuff you already know."

"You haven't told me about your life with Aquarius. You know the things before Fairy Tail. Tell me why people call you Starblessed."

Naruto looked off. "Oh that. I guess I could tell you about that. It's not the happiest of stories though." Naruto then glanced at Brandish, the echoes of the older Fairy Tail men ringing throughout his head. Reminding him to take the advice they had given him. "You know in exchange I'd like to hear more about you as well. Like that August guy you mentioned before."

Brandish was slightly caught off guard. She didn't think Naruto paid attention to her life's more tiny details. "Uh yeah. Of course. That's only fair."

Naruto simply gave the girl a toothy smile. Both teenagers oblivious the the four Fairy Tail wizards peeking around a corner and watching them walk together.

(Chapter End)