The crowd flooded into the stadium, spilling to occupy the once vacant seats. The King and The Pope, along with some other diplomatic figures were sat in rather extravagant seating areas, with the best overhead view of the scenery below. The sound of noble people chatting, laughing, and betting echoed across the arena.

In a room not much bigger than a broom closet, Naofumi stood as he awaited the large doors to open so he could begin his battle. A rack of weapons was placed almost teasingly next to him. The metal reflected the sour expression that marred his features. He grumbled.

The tip of his fingers touched one of the blades, and a blue spark erupted from the contact and forced him to withdraw. He knew his chances of winning were dwindled by the inconvenience that he could use no other weapon but his shield. Was a shield even a weapon? He could make it one, he thought, if it meant getting Lucy back. That didn't make his predicament much easier, though, and anger could only get him so far. He had to strategize.

The low, haunting groan of aged wood emitted from the double doors ahead before he could think much. Torch light poured in through the expanding gap first, searing his eyes; the scent of dust and fresh ash rushed his senses second. As he stepped out cautiously, he saw Motoyasu exit from a lavish tunnel lined by soldiers on either side.

'Great, he even gets the cool hallways. What a joke.' He thought, annoyed.

Ear defiling, an announcer from which Naofumi could not pinpoint the location of, or how he was could be so damningly loud, began to speak as both heroes in the arena glared at one another resentfully. The tension was pronounced, a living entity in itself as it clung in the air and draped onto the shoulders of all people present.

"This duel will take place in the presence of King Melromarc, as well as the Pope, and thus, it is both legitimate and official!"

"Sir Motoyasu, good luck!" Myne's voice cooed from above— surprisingly not in the fancier area along her father— but, rather, suspiciously also in the arena in a far-off corner. Said hero waved back at her, a cocky grin smearing his face. She winked at him, and he turned to face his opponent, pretty boy act discarded like a change of clothes.

"Do you remember the folktale of the Irresistible Spear and the Unmovable Shield?" Motoyasu questioned. Naofumi's face stayed unreadable and utterly blank; not a word slipping from his lips. "Nothing to say, huh?" The blonde man teased. Masterfully, he twirled his spear in circles with one outstretched arm before letting the handle mold comfortably in his hands with an abrupt halt. It was impressive, and probably something only he could do given his weapon had a long shaft, unlike the rest of them. The Shield Hero didn't know if he was trying to show off or intimidate him; perhaps it was a mix of both. "Naofumi, be a man and admit defeat!"

The hated hero lifted up his shield for a clearer view, expanding his skill trees to survey them all. The green holographic bloomed to life, radiating his signature forest green magic aura; rich and vivid. He mulled his choices over. He had to ask Lucy for something of hers to absorb some time later, when this was all over with and she was back to him. He wondered what kind of abilities he'd receive.

With a quiet sigh, he dismissed the prismatic table of skills and shields, and prepared himself for the duel. He got into a sufficient battle stance, with his shield held in front of him defensively.

"Ready? Go!" The announcer declared as they were finally both prepared.

As soon as the order was given, the long haired boy made haste and darted right at his opponent. Using his gained momentum, Motoyasu sprung from the ground and began to thrust a short flurry of attacks at Naofumi. He deflected all of them with ease, and the thunderous sound of metal clashing rang in both of their ears. Clouds of dust formed and circled them. Then, the Spear Hero struck down his weapon particularly harsh. Naofumi braced himself, the weight of his shield seeming to anchor him against the encroaching storm of hits.

"Looks like the Shield Hero has learned some new tricks!" The blonde announced mockingly. It was almost a compliment.

"You got that right." If looks could kill, Motoyasu would have been dead hundreds of times over. Both of their arms shook from the strain of holding their contradicting positions. Embers sparked between the tension, threatening to burn. Still, Naofumi continued, "in the folktale battle between the Spear and the Shield, did you know the Spear actually lost when it couldn't pierce the Shield?" Towards the end of his question, the green eyed boy practically screamed, and with all his strength, unloaded a shove that sent the other hero several steps backward.

Motoyasu gasped, but regained his composure just as quickly as he had lost it. Glowering, he pointed the blade of his spear to Naofumi, then thrust it sharply to the side. A blinding blue ring of light materialized and soaked into the tip of the weapon. Afterward, defined beams in reds and blues spat out like fireworks. "Chaos Spear!"

He dashed right for Naofumi once again like a predator to pray. A violent shower of golden magic far swifter, and deadlier than the first poured onto him full force. The magical spear was so fierce that it rivaled the rain of gunfire itself. The attack was rapid, almost too fast for the eye to follow, but Naofumi's shield met the assault with resounding clashes.

Until he didn't. Unable to keep up with every merciless strike, a single ray of light flew past the safety of his shield and penetrated his left shoulder. He howled in pain as he sprawled back, dodging as many beams as possible before he could be hit again. The wound became a fountain of blood that the threads of his cloak and cracks in the tile below absorbed like scorched earth would water. Anger and agony bubbled in his chest, and he greedily sucked in heavy breaths of air in between grunts. The pain was searing. His hand clutched onto his bleeding shoulder, coating it red.

Luckily, the magic ceased its barrage as soon as he was down— whether it was intentional or not.

Naofumi's brow was furrowed in concentration, every muscle in his body taut with the effort of countering Motoyasu's relentless assaults. Sweat dripped from his forehead, mingling with the dust of the battlefield. He could feel the weight of the eyes upon him, the judgment and expectation of those who had gathered to witness the petty fight.

Still, he knew he could not falter. Between the pain, embarrassment, hatred— none of it came close to the feeling of longing that sunk into his heart. The longing to win, not just for himself, but for Lucy as well. He'd get her back. He'd show everyone they had underestimated him and his companionship with her. To use her in an attempt to smother his quality of life and mistreat him was outrageous.

His hatred once again fueled his desire to emerge victorious, dominating his heart and coursing through his veins. It sprung him back to life, and with a menacing battle cry, met eyes with the bustard blonde before charging. Motoyasu charged for him as well after a few fleeting seconds, but came to a harsh halt when Naofumi rammed his shield into his gut and, with commendable strength, and lifted him above the ground. The wind was knocked out of his lungs, and he coughed not so charmingly as he glared daggers at the man below him.

In her respective corner, Myne snickered to herself. "Striking with the shield? What's that supposed to do?" She remarked. Her mocking face was scrubbed away by alarm when she saw a small but feisty balloon monster chewing away at her beloved's torso. "A balloon? You can't use that as a battle weapon!"

"Get off me!" Motoyasu demanded of the little thing, but to no avail.

On the other hand, Naofumi proudly threw his cloak aside to showcase his small balloon militia; all with their teeth sunk into him. He didn't seem to mind.

"Tell me, what the hell are you up to?" Motoyasu asked him begrudgingly.

"I'm going to hurt you as much as I can, isn't it obvious?" Naofumi practically grinned from ear to ear.

"Like hell!" The Spear Hero roared. He twirled his spear again in a seamless, fluid motion, cutting through the air with wide, sweeping arcs before rushing for the black haired boy. "Come on, Shield Hero, you've got to fight fair!"

The blade of the spear collided into the center of the shield. Naofumi felt the tremor of the impact in his arms and legs like disastrous music. Nevertheless, the grin had yet to leave his face. His shield shone in a brilliant green light and morphed into his Two-Headed Black Dog variant. As soon as their respective weapons connected, the green eyed boy activated it's exclusive Dog Bite skill. Two hell hound like heads with red, glowing eyes burst to life from the center of his shield— both locking their jagged tooth jaws onto Motoyasu.

The blonde stumbled back, crying and ordering them to release him to no fruition. Again, Naofumi took his carelessness to his advantage. Throwing a steady hand forward, he cast his Air Strike shield horizontally. The translucent shield shot forward like the ball of a cannon, smiting its opponent's abdomen.

Motoyasu erupted in a fit of coughs, the impact rendering him vulnerable. He felt nauseous, and it took every fiber of his being not to throw up the contents of his stomach in front of the crowd.

Certainly unfortunate for him, Naofumi wasn't quite finished.

"Shield Prison!" Though he was stunned for a mere second or two, Naofumi took that small window of time to cast his green orb of chains. Simultaneously, he launched a few balloon monsters at the Spear Hero. The prison enveloped him like his own personal cocoon— and as if he hadn't been biten enough— the unwelcoming red glare of the monsters trapped inside as well did not pose for a fun time.

The spectators all gasped as the sound of their beloved hero struggling bounced off the walls of the stone and filled their ears. They all began to worriedly whisper their concerns and doubts about the conclusion of the fight.

Amongst the chatter, Ren and Itsuki voiced their own thoughts.

"Naofumi and his shield have the upper hand." Itsuki said with furrowed brows. Beside him, Ren hummed and nodded. They had, like everyone else, thought this would be a simple, clean-cut battle. Everyone assumed Motoyasu would easily emerge victorious, proving their lowly beliefs in Naofumi and potentially straying Lucy away from him. Though Motoyasu had the clear magical and level dominance, it was no match for Naofumi's strategic and quick-witted approaches. What the Shield Hero missed in raw magical power, he compensated with his sharp intellect; something the latter sorely lacked.

It's that ability that also strengthened his bond with Lucy, who, like him, was seen as the weakest of her previous group. Both of them relied on their analytical thinking, clever use of shields and spirits, and resourcefulness to turn the tide in battles. This similarity granted them a meaningful sympathy that only they could share, and a way to improve themselves based upon watching one another in action.

Naofumi was eternally grateful to be in her presence; someone so alike yet different from him. It was her dedication and trust in him that pushed him to try harder every day. She was the only one who believed him that fateful day; the day everyone truly turned their backs on him. She searched for him in pouring cold rain. Prepared to leave when he first shunned her in spite. Comforted him after. Stayed by his side. He'd be damned if he ever let her generosity ever go to waste.

His heart beat courageously— with a hint of something else— yet that warm feeling soon faded as the critiques and hateful comments of the crowd reached his ears. Anger overtook him again; heavens, he hated being angry. He couldn't help the scoff that left him through clenched teeth.

Trying his best to ignore them, he turned his back to them and walked to Motoyasu, who was still in the Shield Prison.

"It's time for you to admit defeat. Or do you want some more embarrassment, tough guy?" The dark haired boy questioned. He dismissed the chained spell, which vanished in quick rays of green, and looked down on the pathetic sight before him.

With a puff of breath, the blonde seethed and shot back, "and why would I ever surrender now?" A mere balloon monster rolled back to Naofumi's feet. The Shield Hero picked it up. His grin grew mischievous and Chesire-like. He grabbed another little ball and lifted the two monsters in the air proudly.

"Alright, I see. So then, I guess I'll take aim to your handsome face and that precious manhood. How does that sound?" He suggested— no, threatened— and advanced forward. Instinctively, the Spear Hero began to shuffle away whilst shielding both endangered regions with his arms. "I mean, I might as well since I am just a cowardly cheater!"

"Stop, no!" Motoyasu shrieked in genuine fear as Naofumi prepared to tear his physical virtues to shreds. Without warning, however, a ferocious assault of wind slammed into the green eyed boy's back, sending him skipping like a stone on water.

The sudden attack created dust clouds, and through them and the haziness of his head, Naofumi could see Myne; far from her corner and hand glowing with magic. That usual, taunting smirk of hers laced her lips. Seeing he was looking, she licked her lips like a predator did before feasting on its prey. Her playful green eyes added to the similarity.

'Magic...she has magic?' Naofumi crumbled inside. That same feeling overtook him again— could he go a second without being angry? No, he couldn't. He balled his fists, sure that his knuckles were ghost white. He didn't care. He screamed savagely and raced back to his feet.

His eyes darted back and forth between the horrid pair; who should he go for? His question was obvious when Motoyasu lunged for him without a sound. The red head was quickly forgotten. The blonde pierced the air next to him at ungodly speed; an attack Naofumi had just barely dodged. A second too late and he'd have lost in more ways than one. The revelation made his heart beat immensely; he was scared his knees would give in and he'd collapse. He couldn't afford it, though, as a barrage of the sharp swipes of the legendary Spear forced him back on the defensive. Sparks came alive at the harsh contact on their weapons. He was pushed back, and the two's eyes locked momentarily. A terrible sense of impending doom began to encase him. Each breath felt as if he were inhaling shards of ice. An oppressive weight settled on his chest, making each heartbeat feel like a hammer against his ribs. The stillness was suffocating, as if the universe itself was holding its breath, bracing for an unseen catastrophe.

Motoyasu's spear emitted a blood-red aura, and he raised the daunting weapon irascibly. "Lightning Spear!" A geyser of blue lightning spawned from the tip, and with a hefty thrust, the Spear Hero unleashed a thick column of pure electricity upon Naofumi.

The attack was ruthless and bright, as mighty as the sun, and just as fierce, too. The ray of hellish, azure light scorched him into place. His nerves were on fire, his muscles ached, and his entire body screamed with him. Then, the attack dissipated, shrinking into nothing.

He collapsed.

"The Spear Hero wins!"

Lucky Lucy Heartfilia wasn't as lucky as her name made it out to seem. Time and time again, the feeling of failure caught up to her one way or another. Her mother, her father, Michelle, Aquarius; her entire guild and world.

Lucky Lucy Heartfilia always contemplated where she messed up, how she could do better so that hopefully, hopefully, she'd be able to stop these things from happening to her. But she always failed. Was it her fault or the universe's? Was some higher being praying for her every downfall? All possibilities were misguided judgments. She just wasn't very lucky.

At times like these, she remembered that.

She was blinded, like the rest of the crowd, for a few important seconds. That didn't stop her, though.

Transforming into her Aries stardress almost as fast as Erza could requip, she dropped down from the tremendous height and created a bed of pink, fluffy wool for safe landing. Everyone gasped and whispered at her sudden appearance, no less on the arena itself, and Motoyasu and Myne turned to see what the sudden chatter was about.

When they saw the celestial blonde, their faces turned red in embarrassment. Whispers such as, "I thought she was captive, how did she escape, she's here!" were floating among the crowd. Even Ren and Itsuki had raised from their seats in utter surprise. How did she escape?

Lucy paid none of this any mind. Naofumi had already fallen to his enemy and was motionless on the floor. With a horrified expression, she dashed right for him and her hands touched her keys.

"Sagittarius," she summoned her archer spirit, and the horse-man bowed to her in greeting, "please keep an eye on them!"

"Yes, Miss Lucy!" The spirit saluted, and as asked of, drew his bow menacingly and aimed the fresh arrow to the dumbfounded duo who had caused this.

"Lucy, let me explain-" Motoyasu put his hands up in a sheepish manner, as if to appease an upset toddler, but she would have none of it. Sensing his master's displeasure, Sagittarius shot a quick arrow at his feet in warning. The Spear Hero squeaked and hid behind Myne, who visibly wasn't pleased at her partner's constant attempts to satisfy the other girl.

"Don't tread closer." The skilled archer instructed sternly. Lucy nodded him a quick thanks and directed her attention back to her own partner.

"Naofumi, are you okay? Say something!" Tears threatened to spill past her lashes and her lips quivered as she welled up in sorrow. How could she have been so late? His clothes were tattered, and his face bearing the marks and blemishes of a struggle she wasn't present to prevent.

She hadn't intended for him to get hurt. She just wanted to help him, figure out why others were against him, but those same people took her absence as a way to further torment him. Cruel was the only word that came to mind when she thought about them. They were cruel.

Lucy kneeled beside Naofumi, drawing his shocked body closer so she could place his head on her lap with care. She brushed his dark, enthralling hair out of his face. She willed him to wake up, whispering apologies and platonic sweet nothings to him. She was sure he was alive, and conscious; he was in some sort of shock, was all.

"Lucy!" Another pair of voices called to her in almost perfect unison, and she broke her attention away from Naofumi momentarily. Ren and Itsuki had also dropped down from the crowd— though, not nearly as gracefully— and rushed over to the tense group that had everyone's attention. Lucy glared at them, not knowing if they had any part in what happened, but regardless, they had neither helped Naofumi.

"Scorpio."

A shimmer of gold dazzled in front of the pair before they could get too close, and from it, Scorpio appeared. The scorpion spirit knew of the situation and, as such, was utterly serious. His stinger was pointed at the two heroes, who stopped right in their tracks with silent gasps and sweat drops at the new security.

Ren looked over to Lucy nervously, and his blue eyes drank in her appearance. Despair. He disliked Naofumi as much as the next person, but Lucy was innocent. How could an angel cry for the devil? His eyebrows furrowed. The Sword Hero looked away from her sweet chocolate eyes, and to Motoyasu and Myne. The people he thought he knew. The ones who were stood for everything good. Right? Was he being fooled? Yesterday, he would be certain that he wasn't. Now, he wasn't so sure.

Motoyasu caught his fellow hero staring and laughed nervously. He knew he had a lot to answer for. Ren's eyes narrowed, and he placed his hand on Itsuki's shoulder, who was busy protesting with Scorpio to no avail. The Bow Hero looked at Ren and noticed his expression calmed down with a frown.

For the first time during the ordeal, Ren saw Lucy smile. It was weakly, and didn't look as perfect as it could've due to her fresh tears, but she smiled at him. She noticed and appreciated his efforts. A hope blossomed in her heart that maybe he was finally catching on to the wrongdoings of this nation. Perhaps Itsuki could see it soon, too. He felt his heart flutter.

Her consideration of him was stolen when the boy in her lap stirred. Ren felt a small pang of jealousy. But weren't they all secretly jealous?

Naofumi's shock had finally subsided and his surroundings suddenly became very apparent. The first thing he saw was Lucy— compassionate, beautiful Lucy— beaming her usual bright smile at him. Despite this, she burst into tears almost immediately as their eyes met, and her tears spilled down her flushed cheeks and landed on his own.

"Oh, Lucy." He sat up, ignoring the blistering protests of his body and delicately embraced her. His arms wrapped around her like careful ribbons. He felt her stiff body melt into his arms with ease. His hand rubbed her back in a soothing motion, and he inhaled her familiar scent. He adored the way she felt in his hold. "How are you here?"

She hummed, confused, and before the boy holding her could elaborate, a cough interrupted their moment. It was Ren. They broke apart, though, stayed awfully close to one another with Naofumi's hand holding hers in a subconscious need to protect her. Obvious to all yet unbeknownst to the two, they looked like a couple who just had a sappy reunion. The Sword Hero's eye twitched. Itsuki raised a brow at the boy's evident agitation and mentally noted to ask about it later.

"Not to be rude, but how did you escape, Lucy?" Ren inquired. Motoyasu, again, laughed nervously. Myne averted her gaze. Naofumi and Itsuki both narrowed their eyes.

"What am I escaping from?" Lucy asked back, arching her own eyebrow. Her confusion prompted everyone to slowly turn their gaze to Motoyasu and Myne. Even the two Zodiacs, who had been silent and set on their sole duties, couldn't stop themselves from looking. With everyone's expecting eyes on them, the two began to fumble around apprehensively.

"Key Hero! You interrupt our...event." The King chimed in, in a feeble attempt to dodge the question for them, and effectively bursting the bubble that everyone on the battlefield had accidentally found themselves in. They all forgot they were still before a crowd, the king, and the pope, and not just in their own little world.

Lucy stood up, followed by Naofumi, but she took the initiative to pace towards the King; who was now on the field with them. "That doesn't answer my question!" She retorted shamelessly. Everyone except a few hissed at her confidence— or stupidity— but she didn't care. She was livid and it was clear.

"Don't talk to my papa like that!" Myne cried, running to her father's side.

"Malty, do not be so boisterous." Her father, the king, said skittishly. She began to argue and lecture him, and all the while, he looked completely nervous as if he had been caught in a scandal.

"Papa?" It was Naofumi's turn to speak, who was thoroughly fuming just as his partner.

His mind immediately recalled the day he first spent with Myne— no, Princess Malty— and the way she had so easily enticed him. The way she clung to him, pushed herself against him, convinced him to spend all of his money on her. And he had fallen for it all, foolishly. He deeply regret being so naive and easily seduced. She was like a leech, one that sucked away everything he had and was, and for what? To get in the good graces of her favorite hero? And her father, that shrew old man twisted the truth to pacify his dear daughter. He wondered, was this duel they picked a setup as well?

"So, was this whole fight organized by you scumbags, too?" Naofumi spat out. He stood rigid, his entire body taut with barely contained rage. His teeth were clenched so tightly that his jaw seemed ready to snap, and his chest flared with every heavy, controlled breath. He glared at the three— the King, Malty, and Motoyasu— awaiting their answers. The three looked at one another, a mixture of confusion and perturbation on their faces. At their silence, Naofumi growled. "Answer! You kidnapped Lucy to humiliate me, didn't you?"

Said girl whipped around, bemused by what was just shouted. Kidnapped? When was she ever kidnapped? It suddenly became very clear that she had missed more than she originally anticipated. "What are you guys talking about?" She questioned.

Naofumi arched an eyebrow, which quickly got replaced by a frown. "You drugged her, too?" He roared, misinterpreting her words. Motoyasu immediately gasped, offended that he'd ever be accused of something so degenerative. He stormed over to the other male and pushed him.

"I'm not disgusting like you!" Motoyasu snapped back, edging closer to Naofumi in an attempt to intimidate him with his height.

Naofumi scoffed, returning the shove and pointed an accusing finger at Motoyasu. "Disgusting like me? So you're just gonna ignore the fact you're a dirty cheat?" He riposted.

"What?" The Spear Hero was taken aback by the sudden accusation. One he was hoping to avoid. He wasn't nearly as stupid as he seemed; he swore so. He knew Myne had cheated during the duel, but to admit it, and slander her protection and courage would be dishonorable of him.

"Myne stepped in and you know it!"

"Sore loser much?" Motoyasu laughed, putting on the best facade he could muster. It was surprisingly easy since a part of him actually found joy in exploiting the Shield Hero. In his eyes, it was perfectly deserved.

Naofumi snorted and held in his own laugh. "I'm a sore loser? Everyone in this stadium saw it. Isn't that right?" He turned to face the audience, praying they'd say the truth and side with him. The matter of the fact is, they did see it; they would just not say so. It was dead silent; Naofumi felt like a comedian who told a joke so poorly executed that the room fell into an awkward silence, with the only sound being the shuffle of uncomfortable seats. The hopeful gleam in his eyes flickered away.

"See? Sir Motoyasu would never cheat!" Myne interjected, a sickly sweet smile twisting her lips. She returned to her partner's side, and with her presence, the blonde male's confidence grew tenfold.

Itsuki cleared his throat, capturing everyone's attention. "Actually, Myne, we also have to ask about your illegal interference in the battle." He spoke, deadpan. The princess giggled nervously again.

"It was clear a powerful magical spell was shot at Naofumi. It was kind of hard who to tell it was, since it looked to be wind magic; but we know it was you." Ren added. Myne briefly laughed, in a 'brush it off' way, but no one seemed to catch on. Seeing this, she cleared her throat awkwardly.

"Well, how come the crowd doesn't agree?" She shot back. Her eyes looked at Motoyasu from the side for some sort of assistance, but he appeared to be equally fraught with anxiety, mirroring her own unease.

"Your father probably told them to keep quiet. What a shame, to think royalty would meddle in a sacred duel." The celestial spirt mage once again entered the conversation, outraged. Her caramel brown eyes, typically warm and inviting like the gentle glow of a surfeited hearth, now burned with a fierce intensity reminiscent of a wraithful goddess. In that moment, her gaze was no longer a sanctuary but a harbinger of chaos. It made the princess and king both shiver in unease; both fools upon judgment.

Still, the eldest daughter of kingdom Melromarc had to have her say as well. "Take that back, you lowly commoner! You're lucky my father even considered naming you a cardinal hero." The vermillion red haired royal spewed as she indignantly approached the fellow girl. The stellar mage crossed her arms below her chest— something the princess mirrored— and snickered at her audacity.

"Lowly commoner? I was raised in a wealthy household with heavy influence, just like you. That doesn't make you special, Princess. The only thing that does is how two faced you are." Lucy retaliated. Naofumi immediately burst out laughing, thoroughly ecstatic that someone was finally putting Malty in her place.

"How dare you insult me. I am Princess Malty of Melromarc. I could have you executed on the spot if I so pleased, so watch your tongue, Lucy Heartfilia." She said, Lucy's name rolling off her tongue with the rancor of something disgustingly foreign.

"You can try." The blonde girl smirked invitingly. This made Myne's eyebrow twitch in annoyance, but she knew better than to actually pick a fight with the spirit mage. She didn't know just how powerful she truly was, and to engage her when she wasn't certain of her victory would be ridiculous. For now, she'd have to wait for the perfect moment to come where she knew she'd win.

"Just you wait." The princess flashed that sickly sweet smile again; it was like rotten berries masked under a generous coat of sugar.

They glared at one another in a relentless rivalry, each determined to have her way. Lucy looked at the red head in front of her, and couldn't fail to acknowledge how similar they were despite all of their diverging values and traits. Maybe, in another universe they could have become friends. Maybe, they could work things out and forgive one another— like what happened with Sorano, Minerva, Flare, Brandish, and so many more. However, it seemed that in this universe, that would never be so. She could never befriend someone as cruel as Princess Malty; the one who plagued her already friend's life.

Ren, Itsuki, and Motoyasu all cringed as they watched the two girls exchange threats and insults— none sure of who to cheer for if another fight ensued. The King looked years older than he had just a few minutes ago; feebly viewing the ordeal. He sighed heavily, like the distraught father he currently was, and cleared his throat to reclaim the attention of everyone.

"Heed me, Key Hero. I deeply apologize for my daughter and the Spear Hero taking you hostage. It was merely an act of guarding you from the treacherous Shield Hero. Find it within yourself to forgive them, for they could not stand by and watch with the goodness of their hearts." The old king spoke, genuinely sincere and believing every word he said as true. The duel between Naofumi and Motoyasu hadn't been a set up, at the very least on his part.

The Key Hero mulled his apology over, studying his facial features and body language for any signs of deceit. She found none. The blonde sighed herself, and tilted her head a little. "I can't forgive them. Though, I wasn't ever kidnapped to begin with." The celestial mage cleared up. She wasn't sure as to how anyone came to the conclusion that she had been; but it was evident that they were all under the impression that she was indeed.

Behind her, Naofumi's mouth hung open ever so slightly and his eyebrows knitted in turmoil. "You weren't kidnapped, Lucy? Then where were you the entire time?" He spoke, panic growing like jagged roots in his chest. A thousand possibilities flashed through his head at once, but it was his fear of betrayal and abandonment that forced a particular one to weigh down on his mind.

"I was...doing something important?" His question caught her off guard, and knowing she could only respond convolutively to avoid prison time; she figured she'd be in a tight spot if he pressed on. Unfortunate for her, he did.

"Elaborate, Lucy." It was a demand. His gaze sharpened, slicing through her like a winter's chill, a look she never thought would be directed at her.

She turned around to face him, and walked closer to him ever so cautiously. Her hands aligned above her heart— her expression of sincerity. "Listen, Naofumi, I can't tell you here." She emphasized.

"How come?" He was barely composed. What was he: Angry? Anxious? Sad? He felt all of those dreadful feelings swirling is his chest like a ravenous hurricane. Was she trying to get him alone to fulfill some sort of malicious plot? Was she with Motoyasu, Myne, and the King all along? Lucy wasn't like that, though. He should know she was earnest and compassionate. He did know. Then, why did he feel so betrayed?

She bit her bottom lip, her eyebrows knitting together in unease. "I just can't, Naofumi."

"What are you hiding from me?" It was a low growl— threatening, primal, and a tangible hint of instability.

A sudden spew of repulsive laughs polluted the strained atmosphere. The producer: Princess Malty. She covered her mouth with her hand to stifle the noise, but couldn't help herself from murmuring an insulting remark. "Looks like even the treasured peasant girl has her secrets."

Ren, Itsuki, and Motoyasu all cringed at the scene before them. Somehow, everything had turned into more of a dumpster fire than it already was.

"It's not like that!" Lucy immediately defended, snapping her head back to stare inferno kissed daggers at Myne.

"Care to share, then?" The red haired girl responded, cocky, and tilted her head mockingly sweet. Lucy scowled, silent but unwavering. She turned away from her enemy, and back to her friend.

"Don't listen to her, Naofumi. Let me explain-" She reached for him, just barely brushing the textiles of his clothes before he cast her away with a heave. The blonde audibly gasped, taking a step back.

"Lucy!"

"Ms. Lucy!"

Her spirits had kept quiet for nearly the entire ordeal, and likely would have been forgotten if their appearances weren't so visually unique— but seeing their master in potential danger ignited their desire to protect her. The two zodiacs looked at one another, exchanged a subtle nod, and rearranged themselves. Sagittarius had focused his attention to Naofumi and Lucy solely, while Scorpio kept an eye on everyone else as he was better at handling larger groups. The archer spirit drew a mint triple set of arrows, the shafts dancing in excitement from the tension. The scorpion's metallic stinger gleamed in torchlight, itching to plummet any who dared to get too close.

A gentle motion of Lucy's hand let them know she was okay; physically, at least. The poor blonde girl shivered; the warmth of their friendship entirely vanished. She knew he was having a moment of vulnerability, but how could she bring him solace when he rebuked her?

As she tried to think of the right words to say, silence consumed the building momentarily; until the hushed, rapid whispers coming from Naofumi filled the empty air.

"I just can't...it's because of this shield, isn't it? I didn't ask for any of this. I need to get this thing off!" He cried and shouted to himself in desperation. His arms shook as he tried to tear his cardinal weapon from his body— his efforts caused his hand to chafe and swell red. It was to no avail, however. The shield refused to move an inkling despite all his anguish. "I can't get rid of it!" His voice thundered in vivid acrimony.

His breath was quick, shallow, and frantic. Anger and sorrow twisted in his gut, bleeding into one another to form a fierce energy that pulsed through his veins, igniting a sickening fire that felt uncontrollable.Tears pricked the side of his eyes; he felt so overwhelmed. The feeling of being cornered clawed at him like thriving thorns. In that moment, he was both consumed by his rage and paralyzed by it, teetering on the edge of a darkness that swallowed him whole.

His vision corrupted. Various images and hues warped his view, all morphing into the familiar element of flame. The gem centerpiece of his shield blossomed in it, and he would have embraced it if he had noticed it at all.

Lucy stared in terrified awe. Fire. She couldn't recall the last time she had been afraid of fire. She had become accustomed to it, and now it even brought her comfort. It was all, of course, because of Natsu; her long lost best friend who did everything in his power to keep her out of harm's way. She couldn't recall being afraid of Natsu's fire. Fire meant safety. Fire meant love. But now, seeing Naofumi's fire— which burnt in a strange, meteoric motion, and sizzled at every brush of air, fire born of hate— she was petrified of flame.

Yet, her legs marched forward in grace, her arms fanned out in humble welcoming, her eyes blooming in love and tears. She was scared, and her body shook as evidence, but she cared for Naofumi. It didn't make it hurt any less, though, the knowledge that he was doubting her.

"You know I'd never hurt you, Naofumi." She spoke gently, but her voice betrayed her and cracked.

"Lies! You're just saying that to trick me again." He shouted back, not daring to look at her. He could her sobs, despite how silent she tried to make them be, and even though he was thoroughly enraged— he knew he couldn't bear the thought of seeing her cry. He knew it was his fault, too, and that's what made it harder. But she was a traitor. She had been scheming against him the entire time, he was convinced.

"When have I ever tricked you, Naofumi, of all the time we've spent together?" She asked, a somber smile lacing her lips. Silence. "I know you're upset, Naofumi, but I promise I can explain."

"Explain what? How everyone here despises me; including you?"

"I don't hate you. I never have. I care about you. I know you care about me, too. So why are you pushing me away again?"

He pondered quietly, hoping the semblance of an answer would come into fruition. She sighed. She kneeled down beside him, as hushed as a whisper, and without caution— hugged him. He was stiff to her dovelike touch, yet, seconds later he had dissolved into her cradle. She was soothing— inhumanely so— like an angel. Lucy was a delicate wisp of his dreams long forgotten, ever glowing and ever loving.

"No one has seen you give, work, and thrive like I have! No one has seen you love like I have. You've saved lives, Naofumi; often in ways you might never understand. Nothing can change that truth. I hope, one day, you will be able to love yourself— the way you've always loved others." She whispered in his ear, her hyacinth pale pink lips brushing against the dark curls of his hair as she did.

He shivered. She was warm. When had he gotten so cold? He hadn't noticed until her.

It was strange.

It was strange because he wasn't paying attention to anything but her. He couldn't. Nothing else mattered. Not Melromarc, not the other heroes, not the royal family, not the duel, not the audience, not the consequences.

Nothing but her.

Her sobbed. Never had he felt so safe yet vulnerable. His sobs subsequently turned into weeping, muffled apologies, and rambles. None of which bothered Lucy too much, as she was still crying her fair share as well.

After this, Naofumi decided, he'd make everything up to her. And himself. He felt terrible.

They all watched the heart-touching scene before them, all with their own impressions. Conflicted was the perfect word to describe it.

Some, like Ren, Itsuki, and Motoyasu felt some sort of shame, anger, or pity; or even a horrible concoction of multiple. Each for their own reasons.

Princess Malty felt no shame nor pity. She felt anger and inconvenienced. Her hopes were high to witness a fault out between them, and she had been satisfied until she was not. It was far too nonsensical for her.

The King was tired. Simple.

As for Scorpio and Sagittarius, they had both watched on awkwardly, unsure of what to particularly do until Loke had summoned himself and instructed them to take their leave. The leader of the Zodiac saw just as much as he had to see before the dismay inevitably shown on his face. He knew Lucy felt the release that two gates closing had on her magical pull, but she didn't acknowledge it. She was much too occupied. Thus, he stood by, waiting for a little past half an hour before Naofumi had seemingly fallen asleep.

By then, the audience had cleared out after a wild set of events, and so had the Pope, King, Princess, and two cardinal heroes. The only one that remained was Ren, who stood farther away from the three idly; awaiting a chance to speak.

"Loke, I need your help carrying him home." Lucy called to him. Her spirit walked over, and crouched down to her level. Past his lenses she could she could see he was not pleased.

"You two are far too reckless." He said. Lucy frowned, about to retort, but the lion had already begun to pry him from her. He pack strap carried the other male with expertise, and managed not to awake him. A bit of blood poured onto him from Naofumi's shoulder, though, he didn't deem it necessary to mention. Loke held out his arm to her and pulled her up to her feet. Her legs shook, numb from the lack of circulation, and she laughed half heartedly at the searing sensation.

"I'm beat. Let's go back to my tavern, yeah?" Lucy said, her usual smile on her face. Her spirit chuckled.

"I wish it were you I was carrying to a tavern, Lucy." He winked. She gasped, blushing lightly, and fighting the urge to yell too loud.

"Don't be a pervert right now," she pouted, and began to fix her hair and wipe her eyes with her sleeve, "especially when I look like this."

"You just need some beauty sleep and a bath, my princess." He responded, amused by her modest mannerisms. He'd never get tired of teasing her.

Lucy hummed, stretched and beckoned him to start walking with her. "I'd love to when I'm back at the tavern. Maybe I should ask Virgo to have a bath prepared for me?"

A clear of someone's throat stopped them in their tracks before they got too far. It was Ren. He was sure now was an appropriate time to speak. Loke wondered how long he would take; he noticed the boy awkwardly watching even after everyone else had left.

"Oh! Ren, sorry, I didn't notice you were still here." She said with interest. He laughed half heartedly.

"No worries, Lucy. By the way," he averted his gaze, "I'm sorry for tonight. I should have helped." He finished, turned on his heel, and walked off before she could respond.

He could hear her call out his name behind him in confusion, but he retreated outside without glancing back at her. Good. As he stared at the enchanting night sky above him, the ocean eyed boy sucked in a crisp breath of air soberly.

"Goodnight, Lucy."

A/N: I still hate the editor. Absolutely horrible. Anyways, sorry for yet another late chapter, it will happen again. At least this one is longer than usual.

I don't know why I decided to add Ren to the competition, but I like it and so does my boyfriend. Next chapter will be a little bit of Ren, an apology to Lucy, and the start of Naofumi's healing.

If you notice any mistakes, I'm sorry. And someone please fix this editor for fucks sake.