RedHood001: Thanks a lot. I couldn't not at least show a little of how it all began for Riku at Fairy Tail. That's just what I want to portray Fairy Tail as, a family. Riku and Belle are the main reasons Mystogan came to connect to the others and I intend to show more about how that started. Yeah, I have some ideas for the Edolas Arc but it won't be easy. I'm debating on how to handle it but I'm definitely adding an Edolas Riku.

I honestly think Lucy gets overshadowed a whole bunch. Even in the last arc, she hardly gets to show what she can really do after training before something ruins that and I couldn't think of a better moment than this. You're right about the Fairy Sphere thing though, it's more o a moment for everyone.

I'm glad you liked my idea with the king. It was something I thought of as I was writing the chapter but I felt it would work. The first part of the chapter actually relates to that.

A few days had passed since Loke's situation was resolved. Everyone in Fairy Tail was relieved to know he'd be all right but he just needed time to recover in his own world.

Many had been busy keeping up on the repairs, they had also occasionally been taking jobs to keep the funds coming. It was as they were taking a break that Riku and Belle agreed to share a certain bit of news...

''Eeeeh?!'' Several voices cried out.

''What do you mean the king knows about the curse?'' Cana demanded.

Riku told them about the brief exchange he had with the Celestial King before he left, leaving them puzzled. Makarov hummed in thought ''I guess it would make sense, that king's been around for a long time. He's likely seen at least one dark dragon slayer before.''

Levy figured that made sense ''Lu-chan, can we get one of your spirits to find out more?''

The girl never got to respond as a new voice spoke out ''Looks like I came in good time.''

The two turned to find ''Loke!''

''Good to see you!''

''I was wondering when you'd show up.''

''Looks like you've got your head on straight again, huh?''

Loke chuckled, heartened as others expressed their pleasure to see him. There was some good-natured ribbing included but he knew it was all in good fun. He found himself wondering how he could go on without them. His exile had been terrible and he found all sorts of ways to distract himself but it was Fairy Tail that had become his light in the dark. He would always be proud to belong to this guild.

''You look the same as always though.'' Natsu remarked, giving him a scrutinizing look.

''Oh, I wouldn't say that.'' Makarov countered as he walked over. ''You just have to know what to look for-but it is a relief to see you well, Loke.''

''Thanks, Master.'' The spirit felt bad, the last time they had spoken-Loke had been less than friendly to put it nicely. ''Sorry about...you know...''

The man just chuckled ''It's water under the bridge but don't go forgetting the guild's creed again, you hear?''

Some of the listeners smiled at this, understanding at once. It was Fairy Tail's creed for them to live with all their power, a lesson they tried to keep in mind.

''Loud and clear.'' Loke returned.

''You know, I think Natsu's right-he's no different than before.'' Happy piped up. ''Hey, Loke? What kind of spirit are you?''

''My original name is Leo-Leo the lion.''

''Lion?!'' Happy's eyes lit up before he leaped to his shoulder. ''So you can turn into one?''

''Ah, well...'' Loke was about to explain but the cat was clearly not listening.

''He's a big cat-so cool!'' Happy trilled.

''Okay, that's just sad.'' Macao said with a snort.

Natsu snickered ''Seriously, Happy-and you say Lucy's dramatic?''

''You don't get it, Natsu!'' was the response. ''It's appropriate-after all this is awesome, right Belle?''

Belle gave him a flat look ''Not in the slightest-in fact I'm embarrassed for you.''

The female cat's response set many off into laughter while Happy gave her an annoyed look.

Erik raised an eye, thinking back on the new arrival's words ''Loke, you said something about timing?''

''Ah, right.'' The spirit nodded. ''Actually, that's the other reason I came. The king wanted me to pass on what he came to learn about the curse to Riku.''

Erza's eyes widened a bit ''So how does he know? Did he meet a dark dragon slayer before?''

''We spirits can keep track of what's going on in this world but it comes a lot more easy to his majesty.'' Loke began. ''He didn't really tell me how but that ability lead to him meeting two mages who were related to a skilled celestial mage. One of them was said to be a prodigy who could easily have been among the best of his time. They were good people but...the problem with that prodigy was that he was just too cocky. He was so happy to hear many praise him on his achievements and he just kept wanting more...so he chose to learn Dark Dragon Slayer magic.''

Gray stared ''Seriously?!''

''It was taboo around then too-the word had spread about the curse back then.'' Loke went on. ''They tried to stop him-even the king advised against it but that guy just wouldn't listen. He didn't believe in any curse but he said if there was one, he'd beat it. He was so used to beating the odds, I don't think possibility of failure so much as crossed his mind. He was just determined to overcome this too.''

Riku grimaced, thinking of the vile power that overcame him when the curse took hold. He didn't think such a mindset would be all that it took to deal with the problem. There was no way it could've been that simple-Dark Dragon Slayer magic wouldn't have been so feared. 'That...couldn't have turned out well.'

''Yeah...he kept insisting that he could do it, no matter what. But in the end, he fell to the curse too-it turned him into a monster who wanted nothing but to destroy everything in sight. His own friends had to kill him in the end.''

''That's a terrible story!''Belle exclaimed, grabbing Riku's arm. ''Doesn't he know anything that could help get rid of the curse?''

''Well, that's...'' Loke faltered. ''...after that incident, the king tried to keep an eye out for other signs of the curse and that let him learn a bunch of things. Apparently, ir originates from the void.''

''The void?''

''I've never so much as laid eyes on it before but his majesty described it as an anomaly hidden within a certain space that originated centuries ago.'' The spirit explained. ''The area itself is so well hidden that one probably couldn't find it without a lot of work and luck. Even the king has no idea how the curse could possibly originate from there but he's sure that it's connected to the void.''

The void...Riku frowned, something about that sounded familiar...

Loke didn't miss the growing realization on his face ''...I didn't know what to make of that but Riku seems to have some idea...''

'I'm not sure...' Riku admitted when the others looked at him. '...I don't even remember most of what happens when the curse takes hold. But...when you mentioned the void...it reminded me of something I saw...'

Curious, the former asked ''Wait, so what did you see in the first place?''

'Picture the most twisted and disturbing bit of magic you can imagine and you'd be close.' He stated bluntly. A good amount of the listeners unnerved at the thought, what would that even be like? They didn't want to know.

Lucy grimaced ''I knew this would be bad but...''

''A-aye, that sounds really scary...'' Happy managed, alarmed.

''On to more good news-the king thinks Riku can break the curse.'' Loke informed, surprising many but especially the boy in question. Sparing Riku an amused smile, he went on ''He wanted to know more about Fairy Tail after that night so I told him plenty. He had a hunch about you and apparently my stories helped convince him it was right. Apparently, you're dealing with the curse a lot better than most-if not all your predecessors. The king doesn't know of any who held out as long as you did. There's also the fact that you're not just persevering, you're still getting stronger, your heart still remains strong. You may not see it but that's admirable.''

Belle smiled as she noted how Riku appeared taken aback at this ''Loke's right, Riku-I know you just keep saying that it's because you're stubborn but it's not like that. I remember what happened back when I was just learning to cast some of my harder spells.''

Loke found himself thinking back, he remembered that day too...

Loke had just been back on his way to Magnolia after a trying to get a job, passing through the forest. It had been a rough day, one of the clients had been so beautiful that he was enchanted. He couldn't help but flirt with her but it just went downhill from there. They really overreacted! How was he supposed to know she had a boyfriend? Or that he was such a jealous sort? Honestly!

''I can't do it!''

Blinking at the familiar voice, Loke followed it to the source to find Riku and Belle at a clearing. The latter was glaring at the ground, frustration clear in her eyes. Riku had a pen and a notebook nearby to write what he wanted to say as they were still learning sign language.

''I give up-this just won't work.'' She told her partner.

'It's a little early to say that, don't you think? We've hardly gotten started.' He returned.

''But it's been...'' She paused, noticing Loke walking over. ''...Loke?''

''Hey, you two.'' The young man waved as Riku looked at him. ''Trouble with training?''

Belle nodded, pouting ''I've been working on this spell Master showed me for days now but it's just no good...He said I'd be ready to use it but he was wrong-I can't do it.''

'And I've been telling her she just needs to be patient.' Riku added. 'I think Master's right. She worked real hard to get as good as she is now, just because it's hard doesn't mean it's impossible.'

Belle seemed unconvinced, making him sigh. 'Remember when we talked about the dragon slayer secret arts before?' She nodded and he went on. 'The truth is, I've known how to use a secret art for almost three years now.'

Loke blinked ''Hold on, what? But I heard...I mean you never said...''

Belle seemed just as bewildered. Riku was well-versed in his magic-the real problem he had with it was the curse. He had recently learned a dragon slayer secret art but he had never mentioned anything about having one before.

'The first one...well, it's powerful but...' Riku stopped to think his words over. 'I didn't even know it at the time-it lets me reflect attacks with double the power but it causes plenty of damage to go around with. It's not something I can use unless I really have to.'

''Reflect-wait a minute, that's what you did to Ivan Dreyar!'' Belle realized, remembering the aftermath of that battle with the horrible man months ago. Riku nodded, she suddenly had a good idea of what he meant by damage to go around with. The battle had almost killed him after all.

Loke seemed just as taken aback with the news. They knew Ivan was a menace but they hadn't thought Riku's own power hurt him that badly.

This made Belle recall something he and Erza mentioned in passing ''Then...your counter stance...''

'Yeah, it's based off that secret art.' Riku admitted. 'It was the only way I could see to deal with the problem. Thing is, it took me months to get it right-I only finished right around the time I took you in. But it was one long struggle before that, I'm probably just too stubborn to call it quits, though I will admit I wanted to more than once. Still, it all worked out in the end...' He poked Belle's forehead with a finger before continuing to write. '...sometimes the harder things in life are just worth fighting for. It's something I've really learned after coming here. I don't know where I'd be if I didn't have everyone helping me. That's why if I can make it work than I know for a fact than you can and do it much better too.'

Belle began to smile at this while Loke's expression softened. He wondered if Riku knew just how much this meant coming from him. Loke was a more recent addition to the guild but he knew how Riku had it rough, how he had his own low points because of the curse but he could still get back up and keep trying. It was really admirable.

''Okay, I'm ready to try again!'' Belle declared.

Riku smiled 'That's more like it, come on then.''

Loke smiled to himself and leaned back against a tree, knowing they would be all right.

Belle had actually cast the spell successful that day too. Loke still remembered how happy she had been that day, His own troubles seemed insurmountable too but watching Riku was heartening-especially after what the king told him...

''So what exactly did you mean when you said Riku's dealing with the curse well? How'd any of the others go about it?'' Gray wanted to know.

''It varies...a few of them just went off half-cocked and they paid for it. Some did try to fight the power off, they understood the dangers. I heard that one even tried to get rid of his magic all together. We don't really know the specifics but the king described their situation as falling to the void. Apparently, it's a fate worse than death. He said the void steals everything from them...'' Loke appeared confused. ''...I'm not sure what that means though...''

'I am.' Riku admitted, looking uncomfortable. After all, that described how the curse felt to him. This terrible force that threatened to take everything, even his very self away.

Loke spared him a worried look, but he seemed to have no intention to explain so the former carried on''Well, this brings me to my next point...all of this are just some of the reasons we both agree that you would likely be the first to break the curse.''

''Wait, the first?'' Lucy interjected while Riku seemed confused.

''...That makes sense when you think about it-dark dragon slayer magic wouldn't have been so frightening to others if they knew how to get rid of the curse. There had to be a damn good reason no one would consider learning it.'' Laxus remarked. Acnologia was the only one who had entertained the thought in a long time after all.

''That's true...'' Erza agreed, biting her lip. Not that she didn't believe in Riku but after hearing all this...

She spared her old friend a look, blinking when she saw his expression turning determined.

'I guess I'll be doing my best to set a precedent then.'

Her eyes widened and Happy asked the same question she had in mind ''How are you so calm?''

'I'm not. The curse scares me to this day.' He admitted. 'I'd be out of my mind not be afraid but what it comes down to is simple. I've made up my mind. I told you guys, I have no intention of rolling over and calling it quits. I want to get rid of it for good-that's not going to change just because I have some more information.'

Some of the listeners couldn't help but smile at this, seeing that his determination was enduring. Riku had freely admitted to fearing the curse but he was still willing to fight for his goal. Erza smiled to herself, feeling a sense of relief. He really didn't see it was but it was this strong spirit of his that made him a real inspiration to many of them.

Laxus smirked, closing his eyes ''...Sounds like you all right.''

Elfman grinned ''That's our Riku, you're a real Man!''

''And we're going to help you.'' Belle added, smiling brightly.

''Aye Sir!'' Happy chimed in with a number of the others adding in their own agreement.

Riku smiled back, patting Belle's head as she hugged him. Right, he couldn't just back down like this, he couldn't give up...after all, he simply had too much to live for.

Laxus was about to join Bickslow and a few others to help pick up some wood when he overheard an odd exchange.

''Natsu, are you sure about this?''

''It'll be fine!''

''I really think you should stop...''

''This is a terrible idea.''

Raising an eye, he followed the voices to find Natsu standing in front of Riku's sword. Lucy, Cana, Erza and Erik were watching him, most looked like they were waiting for trouble while Cana was amused.

''Let's see it, Natsu.'' She grinned.

''Yeah! I'll make you eat your words!'' He declared, grabbing his sword.

Laxus blinked, was he really going to...?

And he did. Natsu grinned as he lifted the sword high ''See? Told you, I can do it!''

''Psh, that's nothing.'' Cana waved a dismissive hand. ''I said you had to actually use it to win the dare, remember?''

''All right, watch!'' Natsu prepared to swing the great sword but just as it looked it would work, he stumbled against its heavy weight and fell down. He rolled over until almost reaching the wall, only for Mystogan to grab him.

''Honestly, what did you expect?'' The masked mage stated flatly, using one of his staves to lift the sword before it could fall and hurt the dragon slayer. Belle was nearby, seeming just as unimpressed.

''This is why you asked to borrow the sword? Good grief...''

''H-hey, I could've done it!'' Natsu huffed, almost pouting.

''Yeah, right.'' Erik snorted while Laxus rolled his eyes.

Erza sighed ''This is what I was trying to explain, Natsu. Great swords are known to be heavy but they're all the more powerful for it. Riku had to train quite a bit to get used to his sword's weight. It's not something you can simply handle halfheartedly.''

''Though it would help if someone stops egging him on...'' Erik added, sparing Cana a pointed look.

She just smirked. It was just too amusing, Natsu could never resist a dare. ''It's not my fault he's a sucker.''

''Hey!''

Riku turned to Mystogan as he sat down next to him 'So, how many did you get this time?'

Mira looked amused, knowing the first was talking about the jobs. Mystogan had loosened up plenty over the years but he still had this habit of picking quite a number of jobs at once before leaving for varying amounts of time. Riku and Belle would occasionally join him and it was they who convinced him to let others help. ''Well?''

Mystogan cleared his throat though both noticed that he wasn't looking at them in the eyes ''...An appropriate number.''

'Now how many times have we heard that before?' Riku ribbed.

Mira smiled ''I've lost count. Think we may have to keep an extra sharp eye on him again?''

'Let's hope not.' He returned, a glint of amusement dancing in his eyes.

Mystogan sighed but he couldn't complain as he knew just they were talking about. Despite the gentle teasing, they were just worried about him. Unfortunately, he had given them reason to do so.

His tendency to keep away from everyone also came with a tendency to keep picking up quite the work. He wanted to go to all sorts of places for his goal but he also wanted to keep his over doing, he didn't want anyone knowing about what he needed to do.

That goal was quickly ruined when Riku and Belle happened to discover him making his way wearily into town one day...

Belle blinked as they stared at the weary Mystogan resting nearby on their way back from training. It had been a secluded part of the forest so few came this way and thus it was a surprise to find anyone here. ''Who...'' She blinked. ''...hey, those clothes...?''

''...That's Mystogan.'' Riku affirmed her suspicion, frowning. Both shared puzzled looks as they had never actually seen his face before. They doubted he was aware that he had let it show. Riku had always picked up on something odd about Mystogan's scent but he could never place it...

''Riku, I think he needs help.''

Belle's voice snapped him out of his thoughts and he nodded, approaching the latter. ''Hey, are...'' Riku started as Mystogan looked up, suddenly alert. Riku's own eyes widened...he knew this face. ''...what the...? You...you can't be...''

His partner was confused ''Riku?''

Mystogan exhaled, he had been so weary that he hardly noticed anyone coming over. But that was too careless...Riku was one of the last people he ever wanted to discover his face. ''...I'm not who you think I am.'' The latter blinked. ''I only know of him and another but...I've never so much as met them.''

''I...guess you are...your scents are remarkably similiar but there is a difference...'' Riku looked at the puzzled Belle. ''...he...looks a lot like a friend of mine. But I haven't seen him ever since before Erza and I joined the guild.''

''Oh.'' Belle blinked. ''So-what, they're related or something?''

Riku frowned a bit, he was sure his friend didn't have any family left. But Mystogan spoke before he could verbalize the thought

''I highly doubt that.'' The blue haired mage returned, making to leave. ''I'm sorry but I'll need you to forget about this...''

He stopped when Riku grabbed his arm ''And just where do you think you're going?'' The latter demanded. ''Look, I don't know what's going on but you're clearly about to collapse.''

''I'm fine...'' Mystogan held back a wince as his head began to spin, almost making him stumble.

''Right, sure you are.'' Riku drawled sarcastically.

''We can't just leave you like that-come with us-we're going back home.'' Belle added.

The former sighed, picking on Mystogan's clear reluctance to comply ''While I wouldn't deny that it'd be nice to have some answers, I know better than to force anyone to talk about stuff they don't want to say. I know the feeling after all, just come on and take it easy. We'll see what comes after that.''

Despite their curiosity, Riku and Belle had done as they promised and refrained from asking him anything. Their only stipulation was that he take some good time to rest and he really appreciated the help. It was later that he learned how Riku understood how he felt-because even for all his frankness, there were things he had a hard time telling the others about. Like his life before joining Fairy Tail...

That day had been the point where he began to know them. They made a point to talk to him when they could and before he knew it, he welcomed those times. Slowly but surely, the two had helped him connect to the guild. With time, they had become his closest friends. They had been very patient with him, all things considered-but there were some things he couldn't bring himself to tell them. It was his trouble so he would deal with it-they had done more than enough for him.

''It's good to know you're going at a good pace-we just don't want you overdoing it.'' Mira offered.

''I know.'' Mystogan returned, feeling gratitude well up to his friends. He still found it hard to believe that he wound up where he was now-with such a group of caring people who welcomed him despite everything...

''On the subject of jobs, though...I found something interesting...''

''Hey, Natsu, Lucy!'' Happy flew up with a request in hand. ''Look at what Mystogan showed me.''

The request was essentially requesting protection, the client wanted to explore a castle that was said to be haunted on the outskirts of his town. There clearly was more to the job than it appeared as it offered quite a handsome pay as a reward.

Gray, who had been passing by, stopped for a look ''All this just to get through some castle?''

''Uh, did the 'haunted' bit escape your attention?'' Lucy asked as a curious Riku came to look over her shoulder. ''There's no way it's that easy with this sort of money-it must be really dangerous. I bet it has all sorts of deadly traps and even worse, ghosts! Like we'd wind up in a dead end a ceiling of needles falls of us-or some of those ghosts could just take us away. Heck, they could just eat us up!''

''...You do realize you're just scaring yourself, yes?'' Erza sweatdropped as the girl continued to fret about the possibilities.

Cana looked amused ''I guess authors really do have hyper active imaginations...''

''Aye, it doesn't help that Lucy's a weirdo.'' Happy added.

The blonde rounded on him ''What was that?!''

''Meh, normal's overrated. Have you looked at us? Who the hell can say they're normal in this guild?'' Cana returned.

''...You might have a point there.'' Lucy said after a moment. ''Anyway, you guys want to take this job?''

''Hm, I certainly don't see why not.'' Erza returned while Gray nodded.

''Hey, Cana, you want to come?'' Belle inquired.

''If you guys don't mind...'' The brunette's smile widened as she noted that there were no objections. ''...then, yeah sure. It sounds interesting.''

Natsu had a thought ''Say Happy, you said Mystogan showed you the job-think he'd want in?''

''I can ask!'' The blue cat flew to find the masked mage.

As it turned out, Mystogan was pleased to be included, agreeing to meet the group at the station the following day. He'd expected it to be a busy day but he couldn't help but sigh at the familiar sight of Natsu and Gray fighting near the train.

Happy noticed him first ''Oh hey, morning!''

''Good morning.'' He returned as Riku and Belle looked over and smiled. ''...How exactly did they avoid Erza's notice?''

''Pure luck, probably.'' Cana offered, glancing at the knight mage who was sitting nearby. She seemed rather excited as her eyes were focused on the brochure in her palm. ''Lucy's getting the tickets. Erza said she thought she found some useful info about the city where we're going.''

''It's gotta be good...'' Happy flew over to look at the brochure, snorting a moment later. ''...really, Erza?''

She stiffened, clearly having not noticed him there. Belle blinked ''What is it?''

Happy was about to grab the brochure to show them but Erza was faster, holding it out of his reach. Neither of them noticed the brochure falling to the ground in their struggle, only pausing when Riku picked it up.

He couldn't help but smile a little upon noticing that it talked quite a bit about the the hotspots in the town. What he really found amusing was that Erza had it open on a side that talked about an excellent bakery which employed a famous chef.

Cana came for a closer look, grinning after a moment ''Useful information, huh?'' Her grin widened as Erza's face reddened. ''I guess it would be useful...if you're Natsu. Is our almighty Titania is thinking of lazing out on the job?''

''Of course not! That's...that's just...well...'' She broke, twiddling her thumbs.

''Well what?'' Cana prodded.

'All right, all right.' Riku waved a hand, they all knew how relentless Cana could be with her teasing. All Erza's reaction would likely do is fuel her on. 'Lucy's on her way, let's get ready.'

Lucy sighed as a moaning Natsu leaned out the window, paralyzed with motion sickness as always. She blinked as Riku leaned back on his seat, looking distinctly uncomfortable but better than usual. This made her remember something ''Oh hey, didn't you say something about medicine before?''

He nodded and Belle explained ''Aaron-san gave him something to help with the motion sickness. It doesn't make it go away completely but it helps make it easier to bear.''

''Well, at least it's progress...couldn't you have given some to Natsu?'' She wanted to know.

''He tried.'' Cana deadpanned. ''Natsu just said it smelled horrible and he bet it tasted just as bad so he wouldn't go near it.''

''And how the hell is this any better?'' Gray arched an eye at his rival. ''Jeez, what an idiot.''

'I admit the taste...' Riku grimaced. '...is something I can definitely do without but...I'll take what I can get.'

Erza glanced at Mystogan, it had been months since the last time most of them took a job with him. Despite how he was connecting to the guild now, Mystogan was still a private person. There was still the fact that quite a few of them had no idea what he even looked like. She knew Riku wanted to respect his feelings on the matter, even if he didn't quite know all his reasons for being this way but she couldn't help but wonder about him sometimes. What was he hiding? And why?

Mystogan startled most of them when he swiftly grabbed Happy by the tail, giving him a pointed look. He hadn't really paid attention when the blue cat got on his shoulder but he knew just what Happy was playing at. ''...Happy, we've been through this.''

The cat laughed weakly and Cana gave him a look ''You tried to unmask him again, didn't you?''

Happy's expression was enough of an answer, making Gray roll his eyes ''Just give it a rest already...''

Erza sighed and Lucy turned to her ''...Is it that's usual?''

She nodded ''You've seen how Natsu likes to challenge others-he and Happy decided one day that they really wanted to see what Mysogan looked like...''

''Let me guess...they just went by their usual habit of pushing things to the limit in some of the worst ways possible?'' Lucy said dryly.

''That about sums it up, yes.'' The redhead replied in a similar tone.

''I see you know them well by now.'' Mystogan noted.

''They're just that predictable.'' The celestial mage shrugged, ignoring Happy's look. After all, those two tended to push their luck in all sorts of things. She was sadly used to expecting the worst at this point.

'Look how well you're adapting. You really do belong in Fairy Tail.' Riku remarked.

Cana chuckled, agreeing completely ''Yup, you fit with us like a glove, Lucy.'' The girl beamed at them in return.

The group found something odd about their destination quickly after arriving. The city was renowned as a famous tourist attraction throughout Fiore, known to be a bustling hub of activity. Contrary to the reputation, the city seemed quite subdued and dismal even, only a few people were visible here and there...

''We've hardly even arrived and this place already seems depressing...'' Gray muttered.

''No kidding...maybe this whole deal around the haunted castle scared people off?'' Cana wondered.

''That's possible.'' Erza nodded. ''At any rate, let's be on our way-the client's house should be nearby.''

Their client was a man named Alvin, who seemed pleased to find people willing to take care of the request. He had moved here a few months ago to expand his business but then all this mess started. It seemed he already tried with a couple of other guilds but the mages hadn't been able to handle it.

This new revelation made Natsu raise an eye ''If this castle really is that much trouble, can't you just get rid of it?''

''I considered that too but the mayor wouldn't hear it.'' Alvin explained. ''The castle is a remnant of the city's founder and the people here are quite attached to their history. But yes, the situation really is quite a mess...''

''So this castle really is haunted?'' Cana asked, arching an eye.

''I don't know for sure.'' He admitted. ''It would suddenly glow and then all these strange phenomena take place-we see a bunch of apparitions all around. There's this strange power originating from there that causes quite a lot of damage. We've even had a small thunderstorm recently and frankly, everyone's at a loss of what to do.''

''That sounds...creepy...'' Lucy grimaced. She thought Natsu might actually be on to something, getting rid of the castle may just be a good course of action. But if they wouldn't hear of it...

''So that's why you want us to explore the castle, the cause behind all this may just be hidden there, correct?'' Mystogan clarified.

''Exactly.'' Alvin returned. ''We were originally supposed to search for the treasure it was said to hold. But after...well, let's leave that aside now...'' He shook his head, looking sad for a moment. ''...my friend Marcus and I would like you to take us along so we get to the bottom of this. We realize the dangers but we have our own reasons to go now.''

Some of the group exchanged glaces, picking up on his firm tone. It plainly said that Alvin would not be dissuaded from this choice. He clearly had no intention to explain himself but his reasons seemed poignant if he was willing to go through with it.

''Well, if you're so sure...'' Belle said after a moment.

Gray nodded ''Then let's go.''

They met with Marcus at the city's plaza, the man seemed quite set on going as well. While it quickly became clear that they were the two odd ones around here as no one else would even contemplate the idea of going to the castle. These incidents clearly had them quite frightened.

The castle loomed over the city on the top of a small hill. It was stately and quite ornate, made of mostly white marble and dark blue stone. A couple of towers could be seen visible at the far ends of the castle, The building was clearly old as they could see the signs of time passing here and there but it was in very good shape as well. Had it not been for the situation at hand, it would've made for a magnificent sight.

Happy looked on in awe as they entered ''It's a whole lot bigger up close...''

''Pretty impressive, huh?'' Marcus spared the group an amused look. ''There used to be tours a couple of days a week around here. It was plenty more lively-I wish you could've seen it back then.''

Gray had a thought ''Hey wait, couldn't we have found a tour guide or something to help? The people in charge of that would know plenty about this place.''

''That's...not exactly doable.'' Alvin admitted awkwardly. ''You've seen evidence of the fear those incidents caused. One of the tour guides disappeared just before they started and...well...'' His expression darkened before he sighed. ''...they found her body two days later.''

''What?!'' Lucy and Happy cried while the rest looked at him in shock.

''No one's figured just what happened to her.'' He went on. ''Everything went crazy since then so I don't think we can get anyone who would know about this to participate if we tried.''

Riku thought that the city's situation made pleny more sense now 'So that's why...'

''I see-if no one even understands what happened, it must be all the more frightening.'' Mystogan remarked.

''Exactly...'' Marcus trailed off as they heard a strange chime resound around them. ''...oh, man...''

The walls around them glowed for a moment, Erza's eyes narrowed as she remembered their descriptions of the incident ''Is this...?''

''Yeah, it's happening again...!'' The man yelped as a few vaguely human shaped specters appeared. Startled, Happy and Belle hung close to their partners as the apparitions dove by. The glass on a nearby window shattered and one of the vases nearby fell.

''What the heck?!'' Cana cried, stunned. She could vaguely see something glowing in the distance as the chime echoed again. Suddenly, the sound faded away and the light vanished and silence reigned.

''That's the kind of thing you guys have been dealing with?'' Natsu stared at the two men.

''Creepy...'' Lucy suppressed a shudder. No wonder the people were so spooked-she had a distinct impression that they had hardly seen anything too.

Cana blinked as Natsu stopped ''What's up?''

''I thought I heard...'' He noticed that Riku was also looking around in confusion, both glimpsed a side of the wall up ahead opening. This revealed a myriad of spears that were launched at once, making him yelp.

He quickly pulled Lucy and Alvin down while Belle created a shield of light to help the others. Similarly, Riku and Mystogan re equipped a pair of staves to summon rushing gusts that fended off the rest of the spears.

''I...guess the rumors about there being traps were true...'' Alvin mumbled.

''You couldn't mention that before?'' Cana demanded incredulously.

''S-sorry, I've only seen the place from outside before. I just knew what she told me and we never got around to coming together...''

''It'd make sense for a place like this to have some traps-probably measures to fend off intruders.'' Lucy mused.

''So we should expect plenty more trouble coming our way...'' Gray remarked.

''That sounds about right.'' Erza agreed.

Happy exhaled ''We made it...''

He glanced back at the big rock blocking their pathway. Before they had really known it, Marcus wound up activating another switch and the boulder rolled towards them. They had been able to take Alvin and Marcus to another corridor in time but that was definitely a close call.

It had quickly become clear that the group's prediction was accurate and there were plenty of traps hidden around the area. There were anther two sets of hidden spears, a room where the ceiling almost fell on them and now the boulder. It was a far more dangerous place than they were lead to believe.

Happy let out a yelp as everything seemed to light up in flames for a moment and a blast of fire headed their way. There was no need to worry as Natsu was more than happy to eat it all up.

''Good stuff!''

''How'd he do that?!'' Marcus cried while Alvin seemed taken aback. Natsu couldn't help but snicker, he never got tired of showing this trick in front of people. They made the most hilarious faces!

He blinked as he noticed two paths ahead of them, one revealed after the fire went out. ''Which way?''

'Hold on...' Riku went to check both paths, using earth magic to try sensing what was ahead. '...the fire actually helped-the first path's a dead end. I think there might be a trap that way-it's the second one.'

Belle relayed his words to Alvin and Marcus, who smiled ''Then let's go!''

''Can you tell if there are any traps here?'' Alvin wanted to know as they approached the second entrance.

'I'm not sure...this path seems really long. It just looked like there was something hidden before but those traps are hidden really well.' Riku admitted.

He nodded as Belle filled him in ''All right then, guess we'll have to deal with whatever comes our way.''

The second path led them down a long, dark hall. It was the most peaceful area since they had entered the castle...

''...Does anyone else feel like something is just bound to happen soon?'' Gray asked the others.

''Don't jinx it-is what I might have said but it really does feel like there's trouble waiting nearby.'' Lucy sighed.

Trouble or not, Riku decided to bring up something that had been bothering him for a while.

''Man, whoever made this place must have wanted a veritable fortress...'' Cana trailed off as Riku tapped her shoulder. ''...what's up?'' She blinked at what he mentioned. ''Really? Hey, Alvin-Riku wants to know why a bunch of the people back there looked like they were trying to avoid you.''

The man stiffened ''Th-that's...''

Marcus sighed ''Good grief, they probably still believe those stupid rumors.'' At the curious looks coming his way, he explained. ''We've got a few conspiracy theorists around. Those geniuses decided that Alvin must have something to do with the freaky incidents since a bunch of them happened when he was around.''

Belle frowned ''That's a little...''

''So you don't believe them?'' Happy clarified.

''Of course, it's just a bunch of hot-air.'' He shrugged. ''Alvin's my buddy and they can't do anyting about it. They can't prove a thing anyway. They're probably looking for someone to blame.''

Gray snorted ''Typical...''

Their path lead to a wide, circular room. The first thing they saw was a strange, humanoid golem that easily towered over them all. It was kneeling in the center of the room but its very appearance was imposing, leaving some a little unnerved.

As they headed out, the room suddenly lit up and the golem glowed for a moment, slowly standing up...

Cana blanched ''Don't tell me...''

''Brace yourselves.'' Erza warned.

The golem raised the mace in its left hand and made a sweeping motion. Mystogan moved fast, shielding them with Mirror Water. With the golem momentarily stunned from the reflected move, the others moved in.

Gray decided to freeze it and Belle helped by using staff magic to create an ice spell. The golem was already moving despite the ice crawling fast up its feet. Cana threw two cards and a sphere of gravity came into being, forcing the golem to stop. She quickly took out another card and three energy swords materialized, striking the golem's chest.

Riku and Erza moved in tandem, swords at the ready as they ran up the golem's arms. They struck hard and true, damaging its arm and side. The two were followed by Taurus, who swung his axe at the golem's leg to throw it off. The golem kept struggling to put up a fight but their combined efforts made that quite a difficult task.

Natsu blasted it with Fire Dragon's Dazzling Blaze while the others landed more attacks. Mystogan surrounded it with four staves that conjured a deluge of thunderbolts. Belle flew up, seeing the golem keep moving, she fired a Starlight Revolution at its head, both attacks left a few chunks of the golem missing. Cana threw two more cards, creating more energy blades. Riku opened up three gates and the blades were teleported to different sides of the enemy before they all struck together.

Cana watched in satisfaction as the golem collapsed, giving Riku a thumbs up to which he smiled. The golem had sustained quite the damage and they knew it couldn't even stand now, to general relief.

''You guys were amazing. Way to go!'' Alvin exclaimed.

Belle smiled as Lucy dismissed Taurus ''Well, most of us have been used to working together for years now.''

''Anyway, we should be good to go.'' The blonde added.

Marcus nodded ''Nice job, well...''

He stopped as the ground underneath them lit up, revealing a spell circle forming around them. Before anyone could make sense of this, they were blinded by a brilliant flash...

''Eh?'' Natsu blinked twice, realizing they were outside the castle now. ''Did that thing just...?''

Marcus scowled ''Yeah, it bumped us all the way back here. That's one hell of a way to hide a trap.''

''So what now?'' Cana asked.

''...I think we should call it a day.'' Mystogan admitted, surprising them. ''It's getting late and we could surely do with some rest now.''

''Yeah, not to mention we should sort a few things out.'' Gray added.

Marcus was clearly about to protest but Alvin spoke up ''That's fine-we can't rush this-especially if everyone isn't ready.''

If anyone looked at the former, they would've seen his dark expression...

Thus, the group went to the city's inn and retired for the night at one of the city's inns...

''This whole job is really, really weird.'' Natsu stated as he leaned back on a couch.

Erza nodded ''I had my suspicions after seeing the reward money but it truly is far more complicated than it appears.''

''And it doesn't help that there's a lot we don't know.'' Cana added, taking a swig from her drink. ''How about we start digging up some more info before we go back tomorrow?''

''Good idea but I don't think there's going to be anyone open to talking...'' Gray trailed off.

''Aye, seeing how the people we saw kept shrinking away...something's really fishy here and not in a good way.'' Happy stated.

Lucy thought back ''It kind of looked like they were too scared to talk.''

''Normally I'd agree but it doesn't up...just what's going on with this city?'' Gray mused.

Cana spoke up after a few moments ''Okay, let's quit the speculation-at this rate, we'll drive ourselves up the wall before we really get to work! Change of subject?''

''All right...actually, I've been meaning to ask, I'm used to seeing some good teamwork from our team but it looks like Cana and Mystogan fit right in before. Did you guys train together?'' Lucy wanted to know.

''Yup, it took a while but we definitely figured out how we all tick by now.'' Cana returned. They had both started working with Riku and Belle and things just kept going from there. ''Although, it's a wonder we managed to get our mystery boy here that involved at all...''

Mystogan spared her an unimpressed look ''I seem to recall a certain someone swearing they'd work hard in training and then vanishing somewhere for days in pursuit of some special drink. Do I even need to bring up what happened after that?''

The girl stiffened while some of the others started to laugh, recalling the event too. Gray smirked ''No comeback from Cana. Nice going, Mystogan.''

''I can totally see her doing something like that...'' Lucy mused wryly, making a note to ask about the story later. ''...I gotta say though, your magic's interesting, Cana. I saw a couple of card mages back when I was traveling and you've definitely got them both beat. You can even predict fortunes and stuff, right?''

''Yeah, but it's nothing too special...it took me forever to work this stuff out too. I'm nothing special.'' Cana admitted, rubbing the back of her neck.

Belle gave her a chiding look ''Don't be like that, she's right. You are that good.''

Erza nodded in agreement, they were already used to this self-deprecating side of the brunette. But none of them had any idea why Cana could get so down on herself at times.

Natsu looked at Cana as if she had two heads ''What're you on about? You're as tough as nails. You want proof-look how many times you were nominated for the S-class exams.''

'Exactly and I know you remember we've been through this. Nothing has changed, it just means Master sees your potential just like the rest of us.' Riku added.

She gave a small smile ''Well, I wasn't fishing for compliments but thanks guys...''

Lucy felt her lips twitch, it was times like this that reminded of just what a close knit bunch Fairy Tail was. She hadn't missed Cana's complicated expression at the mention of the exams but it looked this hadn't been the first mention of this behavior. Was she upset that she hadn't passed and became S-class despite past attempts?

The girl found herself distracted as the others began sharing a few stories, the jovial atmosphere soon drawing her in. One story was about the time a necromancer attacked Magnolia and summoned numerous zombies...

''So after that guy lost, we found a steak on one of the zombies!'' Happy informed.

Belle blinked ''Really?''

''I know-weird, right?'' The cat shrugged. ''I thought it'd be rotting meat or something but it really looked like it was in good condition.''

''...I'm almost afraid to ask but you actually ate it, didn't you?'' Erza clarified.

This made some of the others look at Natsu in surprise but he merely shrugged ''Yeah, so?''

''Seriously?!'' Lucy blanched.

Gray looked repulsed ''God, ash brain-you'd really eat anything, huh?''

Cana held back a grimace ''You were actually all right just taking it? You don't even know where it's been.''

''Right? I tried to tell him too but he just went and cooked it up like that didn't matter!'' Happy exclaimed in exasperation.

''Why are you guys being so weird? It actually tasted good!'' was all he had to say on the matter.

Riku gave him a dry look 'And this is another reason why I have no intention of letting you cook in our house ever again.'

Natsu scowled, having a good idea of what other reasons there were ''Not this again!'' He threw his hands up in the air while some of the others laughed.

Mystogan felt the need to put in his piece ''...Should the event arise where any of us do have to deal with his cooking, I suggest we double check it.''

''Absolutely.''

''Hell yes.'' Erza, Gray and Cana immediately agreed.

''Oh, screw you guys!'' He retorted, only to be more irritated when they had another laugh.

Belle gave a happy sigh as she lay on the bed ''That feels nice...''

The group had rented three rooms for their stay. She and Riku would be rooming with Mystogan while Cana and Gray would be sharing another room with Natsu, Lucy, Happy and Erza taking the biggest room. This was unanimously agreed to be for the best as one fo their main goals was to keep Natsu and Gray separate. No one in their right mind would expect them to room together after all.

Mystogan soon joined them, removing his mask as they got comfortable. Looking back, it still surprised her that they were such good friends despite his reclusive nature but she couldn't imagine it any other way. They both knew that he was still hiding quite a few things from them but he had proven himself trustworthy overtime.

'You've actually gotten good at handling teasing.' Riku told him.

''I'm a little surprised myself-that just happened before I even realized it.'' Mystogan admitted. ''Then again, I suppose that could be said regarding the guild too. I had resigned myself to being alone but...given the persuasion I've had to deal with, I may as well have had no chance.''

Belle gave him a cheeky smile, knowing he meant their attempts to get him to know the others ''You know you wanted to-we just gave you a little push.''

He chuckled, not even trying to deny that. Those two were his closest friends in the guild and he owed them far more than he could ever repay. ''Well, I'm not about to complain...I never expected to feel this sense of belonging to Fairy Tail but it's one of the best things that happened to me.''

Riku smiled 'I know just what you mean.'

Well, let's stop here.

Originally, I wasn't going to put the entire plan in one chapter but it felt like I'd rush things otherwise. The situation here is...complicated. There really is more to it than meets the eye. Well, let's just say the gang's going to unearth some skeletons in the closet next chapter.

Following up on what I mentioned the previous chapter, the Celestial king has a fair idea of what's going on with dark dragon slayer magic but there's plenty he still doesn't know. He thinks Riku might be the first to break it as far as he knows, but in fact, no one had actually succeeded in getting rid of the curse before. I will reveal more about this situation in due time.

To clarify a few things though, Riku doesn't know much about Siegrain-mostly because he hasn't had that much dealings with the council. Also, Erza never brought it up. Siegrain's avoiding him because he suspects Riku would figure him out and he wants as little intervention with his plans as possible. Riku got hurt pretty badly defending his friends during the escape from the tower so they're aware that he has no idea what's really going on. He would definitely be trying to figure out a way to help Millianna and the others if he knew. He got to know Jellal pretty well so that whole twin brother spiel wouldn't work on him. There's also his sharp dragon slayer sense to account for.

I can't remember if I mentioned this before but Riku and Belle are fine helping Mystogan with the anima after seeing the damage it caused but they have no idea what's really going on there. He's still determined to deal with it alone. Many in Fairy Tail know that Cana has some issues around the S-class exams so they tried to help her in the past but she has yet to tell anyone just why it's so important to her. Although, some have their suspicions...

Well thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed it. Happy new year, everybody. Till next time!