Everything had been going well for Fairy Tail. Even when Jose revealed that the Giant Mage had other weapons than Jupiter, unleashing multiple types of bullets at them, it didn't hold them back for long. Despite his best attempts, it was looking like Phantom's loss was only a matter of time.
That was when Jose's final ace appeared-Gajeel Redfox.
At first it looked like he was just here to fight, simply attacking and causing havoc where he went. Most of his opposition was too tired to really put up much of a fight and he seemed to be aware of that, simply plowing his way through. But it was the way he suddenly focused on cornering Virgo that clued Lucy in, he was going after her. Had Jose ordered him? Was the guild master trying to cut his losses?
She hated to admit it but she couldn't help them in close up combat. She'd have to ask if there was anything she could do to fix that-maybe her spirits could help. The blonde silently swore to let her father have it if she saw him again. It didn't help that she had a very good guess on why he wanted her back all of a sudden-certainly not out of any sense of being a family. Fairy Tail had proved to be a much better family in the short while she'd been here than he had in years.
Even now, there was Loke trying to help her. The young man had been flat out terrified of her for some reason but he hasn't hesitated one bit. She hadn't seen him in a while but something was a bit odd about the way he held himself. It was hard to put a finger on it but then again they were all tired and this had been a long day. Shaking the thought off, she willed herself to focus.
Hope and the Raijinshuu were well on their way to catching up with Laxus when a loud bang alerted them to someone destroying a wall not too far away. This was followed by a familiar cry as Natsu rushed on, making Evergreen sigh.
''Of course it's him...''
Happy perked up as he spotted them, rejoining them with Endymion. Freed pinched the bridge of his nose ''Happy, does Natsu even know where he's going?''
''Well, he said he found Gajeel's scent-oh, right you guys wouldn't know...'' The cat proceeded to explain how the three encountered Mira earlier. She had foiled the iron dragon slayer's attempt to capture Lucy and their battle was forced to a halt by the Giant Mage's artillery. Gajeel retreated, likely knowing he was outmatched. Mira went after him and Natsu happened to see him along the way. He was quick to taunt the latter about showing his strength. A declaration about ensuring Jose would win and taking Lucy served as enough motivation for the incensed fire dragon slayer to go after him.
''He fought Mira, huh? I almost feel bad for him.'' Bickslow snorted. After all, Mira's ruthless streak may have decreased greatly but her strength had grown just as much over the years. After all what Phantom had done...yeah, she was bound to be merciless.
''And Gajeel still thinks they can come out on top? Please...'' Evergreen scoffed.
''Yeah, it's weird. I was thinking maybe Jose had something else planned. Like how we figured he could get the Council on his side or something...'' Happy recalled.
''Oh, don't worry about that.'' The sheer nonchalance in Endymion's tone was unexpected. ''We took care of it.''
Both looked equally confused but Hope nodded ''I made a call to Era after our last job. Org-san said he'll explain everything to the others. I had to make a deal but it worked out.''
''What kind of deal?'' Freed clarified.
''Why don't we save this for later? This is hardly the time and place.''
He conceded to Endymion's point ''Fair, then we'll keep going. Happy, I'm assuming you'll be following Natsu?''
''You bet! Someone's got to keep an eye out for him.''
Freed nodded as he flew off ''Good luck.''
''You too!''
Hope was busy scanning the area ''Wait, let's go that way. There's Gray...''
Laxus was closing in on the area where Hope and Endymion believed Jose was when he came across someone he didn't expect.
''Mira?''
The latter appeared equally surprised to see him. ''I left everyone fighting the Giant Mage. Gajeel was sent to capture Lucy but he retreated and I want to make sure it doesn't happen again.''
''Well, I haven't seen the bastard. Never caught his scent either...''
She looked back at the door he had been approaching ''Wait, Abyss Break disappeared so the Element 4 were defeated. Then...''
''Yeah, it's just the head honcho himself.'' Laxus' eyes narrowed. ''Well, you're here now-want to help me teach him a lesson he won't forget?''
Mira beamed at him ''Of course!''
Lucy stiffened as one of the Giant Mage's barrage was launched towards more of her friends. But then it was repelled by a thick wall of ice and a familiar blur flew ahead.
''Lisanna!''
The transformed girl looked back at her and smiled, clad in her Alkonost form. She wasn't completely recovered (that Shade's touch felt all sorts of awful) but there was no way she'd stay down now.
Both turned slightly as Elfman came back, having taken some of their injured friends away from the battlefield.
''Elf-niichan?!''
''Lisanna?'' He looked equally taken aback and relieved to see her awake. It was just on the tip of his mouth to apologize when her face lit up.
''You did it! You can use the Full Take-Over now, way to go!''
''Aww, shucks...'' He rubbed the back of his neck with a grin. ''...well, I couldn't have pulled it off without you all...''
Levy cleared her throat ''I hate to interrupt the family moment but can we possibly focus on the big hunk of junk trying to destroy us?''
''Sorry...'' The two returned in tandem. Levy shared a fondly exasperated with Lucy and shrugged, as if to say 'What're we going to do with them?'
Lucy stifled the first laugh she felt coming in days. It was ridiculous to think she could be anywhere near cheerful now but here they were. With them at her side, she felt she could face anything.
''Finally here, huh?''
Natsu whirled around at the voice only to find a smirking Gajeel looking down on him from a pillar. ''I was starting to think you'd never turn up, Salamander.''
''Oh, shut it! Is this some kinda game to you?! We're defending our turf and there's no way Fairy Tail's losing to scumbags like you!''
If the insult bothered Gajeel, he didn't show it ''What Master wants is his own business, I've been raring for a chance to fight another dragon slayer so...let's start with you!'' His arm transformed into a sword as he leaped, with Natsu jumping to avoid the downward slash.
''The heck...? Whoa!'' Natsu ducked under another swipe, his fist igniting as he punched Gajeel in the face. A move he quickly regretted as he was met by nothing but pain, muffling back a scream to see that Gajeel's skin was now silver. ''It's like punching one of Erza's shields! That's what his dragon slayer magic is like?''
''That's right; I'm the Iron Dragon Slayer. If this is enough to throw you off, this'll be a short battle.'' Gajeel sneered.
''You wish, I'm just getting started. Fire Dragon's Roar!''
''Iron Dragon's Roar!''
The two moves collided, causing an explosion. Both dragon slayers buckled down to hold on against the force, Gajeel's arm turned into a sword and he struck fast. Natsu jumped back in time. Happy's eyes widened at the devastation caused by the attack. The only reason he avoided it was that he was staying far behind, having been specifically reminded by Natsu to be careful not to get caught up in the battle. As much as he wanted to help, he knew Natsu would hate that. Besides, he trusted his partner, Natsu would win.
Catching Gajeel's arm, Natsu hurled him against a wall before leaping at him with flaming fists. He growled as Gajeel only held up his arms to guard, his attack merely bouncing off the iron scales. ''Iron Dragon's Club!''
Natsu dodged Gajeel's arm as it transformed into a pillar retaliating with Fire Dragon's Claw. The pillar then turned into a sword ''Better not back down now, Salamander-I'm just getting started!''
With the opposition out of the way, Fairy Tail was free to storm the Giant Mage. Some stayed behind to tend to the wounded but all of those able joined Makarov as he led the charge. It didn't take them long to find Elfman, who had been trying to catch up with their friends.
Even weary as they were, this was a chance they took with gusto after all their enemies had done. Like the first team, they were left to contend with all the traps, as well as the remnant Phantom mages who had been able to stay out of the battles so far. At the same time, unlike them, the group didn't have anyone equipped with abilities to help with the set ups they had to face.
Elfman pulled Alzack down as a lacrima fired a laser at them, allowing Makarov to destroy it with a punch. ''Death trap isn't nearly enough to describe the place. How many does that make now?''
''I lost count around the fifth time on the first floor. Elfman, how'd you guys even get through this?'' Alzack demanded.
''Hope and Endymion,'' The teen nodded at Makarov's conclusion ''I'd really be worried if that snake manages to make a trap that'd get past those two.''
''And I think there's more where that came from, look!'' Part of the wall slid open, revealing five golems that stood in their way.
Elfman grimaced, remembering their earlier encounter with the weapons ''Careful, those things are really good tanks and they can regenerate. Hope had to get rid of their power source to finish the fight.''
Levy had an idea ''Let's try this. Solid Script: Hole!''
A hole opened up under two of them, closing with a wave of her hand. Her targets were left struggling to break free, Levy followed up with Solid Script: Sword. The multitude of blades causing some cracks where they landed, Bisca unleashed a round of bullets that exploded on impact. This damaged their makeshift prison enough to let them stumble out. But it didn't matter because they sustained such damage that their cores were visible, which allowed Sagittarius to destroy them with a few arrows.
The others had also disposed of the other three, opening their path. This also revealed a few hidden enemy mages, who seemed to be looking to flee. Erza reacted fast, reequipping a hammer which she slammed against their path. The trio recoiled in shock, barely avoiding the destruction but then they were pinned down by the swords she summoned next.
''Over kill, much?'' Elfman muttered.
''Why are you even surprised? It's Erza.'' Alzack deadpanned.
If the redhead heard them she didn't show it, approaching the enemies with a menacing look in her eyes...
Laxus and Mira quickly found out that Jose's reputation as a Wizard Saint was very well founded. He may have been as sneaky as underhanded as they come but he certainly had the power to spare. A true master of Shade magic, he was able to manipulate it into any form he wished, ranging from sickles as sharp as a sword to makeshift bombs. It didn't help that his magic felt completely disgusting and the two had quickly learned to steer clear as much as possible. He was as tricky as he was powerful, thankfully the pair's own experience let them hold their own.
Laxus punched the ground with an electrified fist and Mira unleashed a darkness beam at the same spot. A pillar of lightning and electricity burst out from underneath Jose, who was able to avoid it at the last second.
''Dead Wave!''
Mira spread her wings and flew up as Laxus turned into a bolt of lightning, both streaking around Jose and avoiding the attack. Their next strike was halted as he raised two walls of Shade magic which he twisted with a snap of his fingers to throw them back.
Jose conjured a jellyfish like Shade with multiple arms which it immediately unleashed at Mira. As the girl fended them off, Laxus attacked. It turned out that Jose was stronger than he looked for he was able to put up a good fight. He could somehow use his magic to teleport short distances. His attempt at a sneak attack from behind was halted at once thanks to Laxus' enhanced senses, with him unleashing an uppercut that launched him higher into the air. Jose retaliated by unleashing a pulse which caused an explosion, with them landing a moment later.
''My, such talent...'' He didn't seem fazed even when Mira destroyed his jellyfish. ''...and it's all being wasted in that guild, if only you were on the right side...''
The implication was clear as day but they dismissed it. Mira gathered a sphere of darkness on her palm while lightning surrounded him as they charged again...
The three enemy mages were naturally no match for Erza, who quickly managed to force them to tell what they knew about the Giant Mage. With this information, the team was able to proceeded further in. Wary of anymore traps, they were sure to question any other enemies along the way. But in the end, it wasn't enough...
Arriving at a wide hall, they were startled to find the walls shutting down. Then a multitude of magical arrays came into existence, forming a powerful seal. A part of the walls then shifted, revealing a multitude of monsters that began attacking everything in sight. Even the Phantom mages (much to their own surprise) weren't spared.
Bisca's mouth fell as one of the monsters wounded a Phantom member gravely ''Even they're in danger...what the hell...? Does he really care so little about them?''
''I think you'll find that Jose Porla's only priority is himself.'' An equally disgusted Makarov cast a shield over some of the terrified mages nearby. Furious as he was with their guild, they didn't deserve this. Assuming his titan form, he blocked an oncoming monster's fist and threw it against the wall. As it tried to get up, Erza donned her Flame Empress armor, incinerating with a few strikes.
It hadn't escaped her that the walls weren't so much as scratched even in all this fighting, which meant they were likely trapped unless they could find a way around it. Fortunately, Levy seemed to have come to the same conclusion. She was busy trying to analyze the magic, which would hopefully allow her to figure out a way to get them through. The solid script mage was joined by Loke and Alzack, who were hard at work keeping the enemies away from her.
A growl made Erza look forward as three monsters stood in her path. Unfazed, she donned her Heaven's Wheel armor ''Circle Sword!''
Gajeel turned his arm into a spinning iron blade, attempting to attack Natsu multiple times. The latter charged just as Gajeel did, engaging in a close up clash that they eventually took to mid-air. Whatever blows they took they returned in kind and it seemed that they were evenly matched.
''Fire Dragon's Sword Horn!''
''Iron Dragon's Scales!''
To Natsu's satisfaction, cracks were forming on Gajeel's scales again. The iron dragon slayer looked frustrated even as he panted. Natsu was trying not to show it, but he was getting tired too. He couldn't afford to let this draw out for too long-the battle had to end. And soon.
Jose trapped Mira with Shade Entangle, creating a multitude of very sharp blade-like shades which flew at her. The attack was quickly destroyed by Laxus' Lightning Dragon's Roar, giving Mira enough time to break free. Flapping her wings, Mira flew up and used two spheres of water that combined to cause a wide wave. Jose dismissed the move as nothing special but realized his mistake too late, as Laxus unleashed a lightning spell on the wave, leaving him to be hit by the full force of the attack.
Crying out in pain, the man was furious. He was a Wizard Saint, talented or not, he should've taken those brats out by now! But it was much harder than he could've expected. The two were clearly used to working together, something he'd noticed from a good number of Fairy Tail's members, their experienced teamwork let them cover up the other's failings. What was even more annoying was that Mirajane's skill with darkness magic let her deflect or even pierce some of his spells easily. The two were quick to capitalize on whatever opening they could see, Laxus doing so once again by casting Lightning Dragon's Storm Bringer. Jose was forced to teleport out of the way, only to be caught off guard by a magic powered punch to the gut courtesy of Mirajane.
''D-damn you!'' He was surrounded by magic power as he stood, casting a wide spread Dark Pulse. The two were thrown back by the large explosions, with Jose unleashing more attacks, downing the two with a tornado of darkness.
Mira did her best to guard, refusing to let Jose see any sign of pain. She wouldn't give him the satisfaction. The girl was admittedly thankful for her transformation as it seemed to mitigate the effects of his magic. But even with her Satan Soul, the Shade magic felt repulsive. It made her wonder, not for the first tame how anyone trusted this man.
Jose conjured Shade soldiers who struck with thick battering rams. Laxus avoided them with his lightning body while Mira used her own experience with darkness magic to negate their attacks, absorbing them into her magic as she gathered a searing beam that destroyed them all. This let them see that Jose was charging up an extra powerful Dead Wave and they knew they wouldn't have time to avoid it.
But just as it was unleashed, a wall of runes formed before the pair, reducing the blast to nothing. Surprised and relieved, Mira shared a grin with Laxus as Freed landed before them. A second later, Bickslow's puppets aligned before Jose, unleashing a flash that blinded him. This was followed by a shimmering tornado of light that swept him off his feet before it exploded just as Hope, Gray, Endymion and Evergreen made their presences known.
''Cutting it a little close there, aren't you?'' Gray snorted at the blond's remark, rolling his eyes.
''Well, we did have to take out the trash on the way.'' Evergreen flipped her hair.
Pulling himself, Jose wiped some blood off. The mere sight of it increasing his ire. How dare they...?!
''Don't think increasing your numbers would change anything, you'll never win!''
Levy avoided the swipe of a monster, pursing her lips. Her friends were doing their best but there was no denying the battle was wearing on them. She had a guess on how to dispel this barrier but if she just had a bit more time for analysis...
''Solid Script: Thunder!''
Two flying monsters were struck by the blast, allowing Elfman to take them out in seconds. The teen blinked when they suddenly disappeared ''What just...?''
''A lot of them are like those elementals we fought before, just constructs of magic. Those barriers aren't just for trapping us here, they're powering them up.''
He grimaced at Levy's explanation, this was getting worse by the minute. Master and Erza were keeping up the fight but they couldn't leave it up to the two of them...''Any luck figuring this out?''
''...I think so but...'' Levy didn't like taking gambles, especially in such situations. But the magic used here was foreign to her-she'd never seen anything like this. If she could just try a little more... ''...give me a few minutes.''
''Right!''
The new arrivals were beginning to turn the tides. If Jose had trouble with Laxus and Mira, it was only exacerbated by the group of six who could work quite well with both of them.
He raised a shield of darkness to block Evergreen's Leprechaun spell only to be forced back as Freed charged, blade at the ready. His attempt to blast the rune mage was ruined by Mira, who deflected his darkness magic again. Freed and Gray hopped on Endymion's back, the phoenix letting out a sharp cry that made the man cringe. He unleashed a fast dark blast at the trio, only to be taken aback when the two hopped off Endymion and attacked. Jose's attempt to destroy Gray's ice blast only resulted with him being pelted by hail as Freed struck his shoulder, this was followed by a sudden burst of light before he saw that his attack on Endymion seemed to just shoot through him.
Shaking his confusion off, the man gathered up another spell ''Do you think the same trick would work twice? Fools!''
''Wonder who's the fool here.'' The next thing he knew, Bickslow's puppets aligned before him. ''Now, crumble!''
Jose's eyes widened at the sudden explosion, forcing him to summon Shades to defend himself. But this was quickly foiled as the shield was reduced to nothing by two silver bullets and Jose was forced to dodge Hope's Star Gladius, only to find himself face to face with Laxus.
''Lightning Dragon's Breakdown Fist!''
The sudden blow slammed him to the ground, leaving him gasping in pain as he coughed out blood. How...how could he be struggling so much against them?! He wouldn't...he wouldn't lose!
Levy decided to shake off any uncertainties and to use her solution now. ''Erza, I need your help to break the barrier. Hit the same spot I do with all you've got!''
The redhead nodded ''Whenever you're ready.''
''Solid Script: Chaos!''
The colorful word flew at their far left, unleashing a mass of power that finally left a dent in the wall. Erza struck at once, her blade piercing through and in moments, the magic barrier fell apart.
''Good going...'' Elfman paused when they saw Levy panting a little. ''...whoa, you all right?''
''Y-yeah, that spell's...new...it just takes a chunk of my magic...''
''You did great, Levy.'' Loke fingered one of his rings. ''We'll take it from here.''
Gray's Ice Make: Cannon destroyed a number of Jose's Shade creations, the ice mage firing another blast only to see the enemy teleport away. He stiffened as Jose suddenly trapped him with Shade Entangle, which was destroyed when by a silver ray that pierced through it a second later. Nodding at Hope in thanks, the two prepared to attack once more.
''Can't keep the bastard down for long, huh?'' Bickslow grunted.
''We're wearing him down.'' Mira assured. ''He was plenty faster before, being a Wizard Saint doesn't make him invincible. Come on!''
With her leading the charge, Jose was left once again on the defensive against the onslaught. He was forced to resort to a widespread Dark Pulse to force them back, glowering at them.
''This is far from over! Didn't I make it clear? I'm going to win, no matter what and I won't ever let anything stand in my way.''
There was that confidence again. It appeared he had that much faith in his own strength at first...but Hope didn't think it was that simple. That strange ability was acting up again and it only reinforced his suspicions. Despite the fierce battle, Jose's arrogance remained. Hope also couldn't help noting how the man had only emphasized his own victory, not once did he say anything about Phantom Lord even with his pride in his guild.
The more the boy thought about it, the more his certainty grew. It was this foreboding feeling that drove him to act just as Mira was about to strike again.
''Mira-san, stop!''
Everyone looked at the boy in surprise. Hope's attention firmly on Jose ''What're you playing at? You're still acting like this whole battle is no skin off your back. You were out to get Fairy Tail because you think the guild's in Phantom's way but you've just been talking about your own victory all along. And all those traps...I thought it was strange but this entire floor didn't have any members traps or Phantom members. But there's no way it's that easy, not after what we've seen. You wouldn't be this confident without one last ace in the hole-am I right?''
Surprised, Endymion found himself recalling what happened earlier. Hope's reasoning actually made the pieces fall into places-Totomaru really had been fooled.
The silence was broken by Jose's laughter ''Very interesting...I really did underestimate you, child. You're every bit as clever as your reputation would have people believe. Bravo, correct on all accounts.'' He smirked. ''You should be thanking him, 'Demon'. He just saved your life.''
The girl's eyes widened, Endymion proceeded to scan the floor, now discovering the truth ''You...you scum, so that's why...''
''What? What is it?'' Gray demanded.
''That whole area is planted with lacrima grenades. I think he's in position to set them off. If Mira had gone any closer...''
Gray's mouth fell, Bickslow looked back at Jose ''Are you nuts? An explosion like that could take us all out; never mind destroying the Giant Mage. You can't possibly be going that far...''
Laxus knew that was wrong ''After all he's done? That snake's not going to put himself at risk so easily.''
''Of course not.'' Jose's airy tone only confirmed that he had some trick up his sleeve that would ensure his safety.
Mira stared at the man in disgust ''You really don't even care one bit about your own guild members-the ones who trusted you and did all you wanted...''
He scoffed ''If they did, we wouldn't be here now. Even my so called S-class mages lost to you brats, so as far as I'm concerned, they're worthless. Let them rot for all I care. I can always make a fresh, new start but I will do everything I can to ensure Fairy Tail's destruction.''
Fury and hate laced every word ''It's always about Fairy Tail. Phantom's accomplishments always get shoved to the wayside only for me to hear more stories about you; practically all you idiotic brats do is trash one place or the other! And if that wasn't bad enough, you have all those names joining you like Gildarts, Laxus, Titania and even Salamander and the White Paladin as of late! Now you even have the Heartfilia fortune supporting you? I won't allow this! Fairy Tail has been a nuisance for far, far too long and I've had enough of it!'' He sneered. ''It's my ancestor who founded Phantom, on the ashes of the guild that wretch Mavis Vermillion destroyed. Fairy tail's nothing but an obstacle to be removed and I will see it done!''
Laxus was reminded more and more of his father by the minute ''You're full of it. First of all, what fortune? We didn't even know Lucy was a Heartfilia until you shoved your fat nose in our lives. She doesn't want anything to do with her family.''
''We don't care one bit about her family's fortune. Lucy was miserable and she left it all behind her, who wouldn't leave such a place? She worked so hard despite being so new to the guild, she's trying her best to make her own life and I won't let people like you ruin that.'' Mira spat.
Jose scoffed ''I can see Makarov's influence. You're all bleeding hearts just like him and that's why you will lose to me. Face it, I have the upper hand. One false move and that's it-game over.''
Natsu and Gajeel's enhanced senses let them hear the whole exchange, the former merely growled ''I knew you guys played dirty but this is a new low. Some guild this is supposed to be...''
''...You done running your mouth?''
The former gaped ''You're just going to ignore that?!''
''What's it to you?'' Gajeel's expression was unreadable. ''But if Master...if he's going to keep doing his own thing then so will I. I've wanted a battle like this for a long time so I sure as hell am not going to give up on it now.''
Well, Natsu was honest enough with himself to admit that he understood that. While he wouldn't have taken Jose's action this way, the fact was he enjoyed the thrill of a good battle too. ''...All right then, here I come!''
The battle took a turn for the worse with the new revelation, Jose had full control and attempting to fight back would only lead to him activating the grenades. This left everyone on the defensive while Jose attacked relentlessly.
Freed tried to think as Gray's Ice rampart was destroyed. ''Bickslow, what about your Figure Eyes?''
''No good, we've got to trap him for it to even start working. Pretty sure he knows about our eye magic anyway.''
Evergreen nodded, having also noticed that Jose had made sure not to look directly at them in the eyes, likely anticipating their powers. She didn't think it'd be an exaggeration to say that Hope's restoring abilities was a good part of the reason they were holding up like this. ''This is a losing battle and he'd be stupid not to see it. The bastard's just getting a kick out of tormenting us.''
Gray ground his teeth ''There's got to be something we can do!''
''It's useless!'' Jose cackled, unleashing a Dead Wave ''Struggle like the little pests that you are! I can't wait to see Makarov's reaction to me destroying his precious brats!''
The oncoming wide spread attack was destroyed by Laxus' lightning. Jose clacked his tongue but only attacked once more. ''You're nothing but a rotten coward; I see where the rest of this damn guild gets it. You can't even fight us on your own. Mock all you want but Gramps will always be the better man and there's nothing you can do to change that.''
''Impudent brat!'' The furious guild master concentrated, a big dark spear forming above his palm. ''Let's see how long you can run that mouth!''
The two clashed once again, Gray and Freed were about to help Laxus when Hope called out to them. ''I have an idea...it should help us out of this mess but I need your help...''
Gajeel broke off a part of the machines nearby before proceeding to eat it. A grin settled on his face ''Much better...Iron Dragon's Roar!''
Natsu quickly jumped out of the vortex's path, with it being much more powerful now that Gajeel had gotten some strength back.
Luckily, he had just the thing.
His opponent blinked at the sight of him producing a shrunken lacrima, which suddenly grew before letting out a burst of fire which Natsu eagerly consumed. ''Huh, so you were prepared for that too? You're smarter than I thought.''
Natsu was more than glad that he'd heeded his friends' advice to always keep a power source at hand. Making a note to thank them later, he charged into the fray again. Gajeel met his fist readily before turning his foot into a blade, which Natsu side stepped only to be forced to block and oncoming club. Gajeel was similarly met a Fire Dragon's Iron Fist, holding back a grimace at the heat. Backflipping away, he began charging up another attack but Natsu was already on the offensive again.
Propelling himself with flames, the teen was faster than Gajeel could react ''You bastards will pay for everything! You'll never lay a hand on Fairy Tail again!'' He unleashed a furious flurry of fists and kicks which Gajeel tried to guard against but he was soon overwhelmed.
''Crimson Lotus: Fire Dragon's Fist!''
Natsu charged one last punch, sending Gajeel flying through into wall before he finally fell. Stumbling, he let himself grin, knowing that he'd won.
Mira wasn't sure where Hope was at the moment but judging by Endymion's stance, everything was going well. They just had to keep buying time and make sure Jose doesn't realize the subterfuge.
Jose struck once more and they tried to defend as much as they can. This wasn't even a battle now-Evergreen had put it best earlier, he was going to lose and he knew it so this was just his cowardly way out. If they didn't beat him, they had every faith that Makarov would. But that didn't mean they would just roll over and call it quits.
Seeing magic gather around Jose as the area around them was covered in shadows, the group braced themselves...
Erza frowned at the area covered in shadows up ahead, the magic felt even more repulsive than when they were dealing with the Shades earlier.
After clearing out the trap, the group was free to continue on their way. They were left to deal with more of the Phantom mages, including (much to her ire) the ones they saved earlier. Those Phantom members truly had no honor. But they would not lose.
Erza's eyes traveled to the direction Makarov had taken, trusting him to take care of the others.
A wide spread Dead Wave swept over the room, but Hope disappeared as if he wasn't even there. Jose was surprised ''Again?!''
Looking around quickly, he found Hope standing on one of the higher areas, a silver aura surrounded him ''Paltry little tricks, you would've been wiser to flee. Nothing you can do will make a difference now.''
''I wonder about that.'' Placing a hand on the ground, Hope closed his eyes. Silver waves of magic bathed the entire area but then nothing seemed to happen.
''Hah! Was that some attempt at a last stand? Your spell never even reached me!'' Jose taunted as the boy fell to a knee, breathing heavily.
But Hope knew his plan worked without a hitch. Jose was never his target.
And he wasn't the only one who caught on...
Endymion fired a sharp laser while Laxus lobbed a lightning spear, both spells combining into an explosive force. Jose stiffened, staring at the combination in bewilderment. ''Have you fools forgotten? I...''
The words died in his mouth as the revelation sank in; Laxus allowed himself a smirk ''Figured it out yet?''
He had indeed, realizing he'd been fooled by a thought projection once again. The wide spread Nihil Pulse had sent each and every one of his grenades to the future. Thinking fast, the guild master raised a makeshift shield but the combination was soon able to pierce through, sending him reeling. ''You...damn brat! Getting in my way once again...you'll pay!''
Endymion flew to his partner just as Jose fired a barrage of dark beams, casting the strongest shield he could muster. But it wasn't enough, the phoenix quickly moved to catch Hope as they were blasted off the platform. Jose leaped after them but found his path blocked by Mira, who quickly proceeded to attack.
Gray helped Hope up ''Way to go.''
''Don't go celebrating yet, you fools!'' Jose spat. ''You may have foiled that plan but that doesn't mean you won. I'm not nearly finished with you yet!''
''You've got that backwards, nothing's protecting you now!'' Bickslow shot back. ''Baryon Formation!''
''Ice Make: Cannon!''
Jose destroyed both spells with a wave of Shade magic but Mira and Laxus struck next. The latter punched the ground hard enough to make a crack surging towards Jose, power gathered around his fist as he attacked again. Startled, the man held his hands up to defend himself, creating more shades as a shield. But Mira flew through the vortex, unleashing a darkness beam. Gasping, Jose fell on a knee ''D-damn you...!''
''Who said you get to leave?''
All the Shades in the area were suddenly pierced by a multitude of rays, the sound of footsteps alerting them to a new arrival.
Jose growled ''Makarov...''
The man's attention was on his own guild members ''My children, you've all done so well. You should all be proud to be members of Fairy Tail. Leave this to me.''
His expression finally relayed the anger he was truly feeling. Jose smirked ''So you really want to fight? If two Wizard Saints face off, there will be a cataclysm.''
''A cataclysm is the least of your worries now! You went after Fairy Tail, you hurt my children so now...I'll be your worst nightmare!'' Magic gathered around Makarov who immediately struck, his fist growing in a second. Jose was taken aback at the sheer speed, the move throwing him into a wall.
Light pooled around Makarov while Jose was surrounded within a vortex of darkness and they clashed, the sheer force nearly throwing the onlookers back. A blast cut Makarov's shoulder while a light bullet pierced Jose's, who smirked. Using another Dead Wave, he found it was quickly fended off by his adversary. The area trembled from Makarov's magic as he advanced ''You really are skilled enough to be worthy of the title Wizard Saint, it's such a shame you waste such talent like this.'' Jose looked on with a sneer ''You could've been a role model to your successors, an example to the magical world...''
''Are you really lecturing me now?!''
Makarov carried on as if he hadn't spoken ''As per Fairy Tail's code of conduct, I'll allow you three seconds to kneel before I end this fight. 1.''
''End this-?! You really have gone senile, old man!'' Jose ground his teeth as the man simply counted one. ''As if I'll surrender to the likes of you!''
''2...''
''I will never bow down to you, I'm your equal-no you're just a pathetic little flunky to me!'' He snarled. ''I will destroy you and erase this joke of a guild off the face of Earthland!''
''...3.'' Brilliant light shimmered around Makarov and it spread throughout the area, Jose screaming loudly as it overwhelmed him. Any remnant shades were destroyed in an instant. This was Fairy Law, one of the guild's great five spells. A righteous light that would take down all those the caster deemed enemies.
''Damn...'' Gray was grinning ''...way to go, Gramps.''
''That was totally worth the wait, talk about cathartic!'' Bickslow exclaimed, their eyes falling on Jose then.
The man seemed almost...withered. His mouth was open in a silent cry, having grown much paler with his hair now utterly white. Makarov stared down at him ''This is where your brashness led. I will never let anyone get away with hurting my family. I warn you right now, come at Fairy Tail again and you'll pay dearly.''
As he approached his guild members, Aria suddenly loomed over him. Evergreen was about to shout a warning but Makarov's fist suddenly elongated, punching the man into the ground. ''Know when to cut your losses. Now take your fool of a master and go before I change my mind.''
''Nicely done, Master.'' Freed smiled.
''Took you long enough though.'' Laxus couldn't help but add. ''Thanks for that, seeing him get walloped is a memory I will cherish for a long time.''
Makarov barked out a laugh ''I thought you'd say that. All right, brats, what do you say we get out of here?''
A few days later, peace returned to Fairy Tail. Phantom was disbanded and Jose arrested, the few members who tried to fight this were also thrown in jail. On the other hand a number of others simply chose to leave.
''So it's here?''
Hope and Endymion stared around the storage room, befuddled by the number of boxes and other things Makarov had come to gather over time. ''Grandpa thinks so anyway...probably just as well, if it was in the guild, we'd never find it.''
''Excellent point...let's see then...'' Endymion's eyes shone as he began looking around. While Hope's magic could be useful for their restoration efforts, Makarov confessed to thinking about renovating the guild building. The plans had been ready for a long time but now it was just a matter of finding them.
Hope spoke up after a few minutes ''I was wondering...about what happened in the battle-you knew what that new power I wound up using was, didn't you?''
Endymion realized he'd never actually got around to explaining ''Right, it's actually one of mine but I haven't used it in a very long time. I never thought you'd receive it. You certainly made the most of it there.''
''I just went with the flow, really...I was really confused but it hit me after a while. That was some kind of empathy, isn't it?''
The phoenix let out a pleased hum ''Correct. I've had it for many years; of course sensing others' emotions like what you did is one aspect of it. Did it activate again since the battle?'' He thought Hope would tell him if it did but there was no harm in asking.
''I don't think so...'' They were understandably worn out afterwards so he couldn't say ''...can you teach me about it?''
''Do you even need to ask?'' The response elicited a smile from the boy ''But more on that later, I think I found them.''
Most of the guild was rather surprised at how well the Council took things in stride. They were half expecting some heavy interrogation but the Rune Knights were surprisingly accommodating, they'd even assured that the Council would send them help to repair the guild building should they ask. The offer was not unwelcome but most definitely unexpected.
This drove Erza to ask if anyone knew what changed. And the answer wasn't one she liked.
''What?!''
As it turned out, the deal Hope and Endymion struck with the Council involved them doing jobs on the Council's behalf for the rest of this week. But half the reward would be go to them and they would choose the jobs. The Council was very firm against conflict between guilds and this way Fairy Tail would avoid any repercussions and receive recompensation for all the damage Jose caused.
''It's okay, guys...'' Hope began.
''No, it isn't! What kind of deal is this?! They've got some nerve!'' Natsu snapped.
''I concur; it's as if you're being punished because Jose is a lowlife bastard. You did the right thing by warning them and this is what you get? That's unacceptable!'' Erza declared. ''The Council can't get away with this...''
''You do realize that this kind of thinking is exactly why Hope had to agree, right?'' Endymion cut in. ''I don't like it anymore than you do but the fact is, we worked with the best we had.''
''How is that...?!''
''He means...'' Laxus cut her off. ''...a lot of the old farts back in Era would love a chance to get at Fairy Tail. We have a few on our side but there's only so much they can do. Many of us may not give a damn about the guild's rep in the eyes of others but this is one of the consequences. So lay off, Chibi's doing this to protect the guild.''
Well, there wasn't much they could say to that was there?
''Damn old geezers...'' Makarov knew perfectly well that Hope only chose to work with the Council for the guild's sake which made him feel worse. It was easy to picture some of them using Hope's reputation as the White Paladin for their own ends. ''...sorry about this, my boy. You shouldn't have had to...''
Hope just smiled ''It's okay, Uncle Yajima says he can help us more this way.''
''Also, we're going to help. If the Council doesn't like it, tough break.'' Lisanna put in, Levy nodding happily to this.
Laxus cracked a smirk ''Sounds like a plan.''
The next day...
Mira was looking around the guild curiously ''Was that Happy just now?''
''Yeah, he sure took off in a hurry...'' Droy frowned ''...He wanted to go see Lucy-wonder what happened?''
Despite their reassurances, Lucy was taking their whole ordeal badly. She still held herself responsible for the attack when none of them blamed her at all. The girl had readily come to help out around the guild since the battle ended but no one had seen her today. Even stranger, Natsu and Gray had been quick to join Happy once he told them he was leaving but they vanished too.
What was going on today?
''So she's gone and done it after all.'' Makarov remarked idly, Hope nodding to this. Concern flashed in his eyes as he looked back out the street. ''Don't worry, this is for the best. Sometimes we just need to take matters into our own hands, what's important is that she knows we'll be there for her.''
Whether she'd realized it or not, Lucy had unwittingly made a few comments over the last few days that tipped them off about her plans. She was still determined to do something to nip their recent trouble in the bud and one immediate way was to confront Jude Heartfilia. No doubt Happy had discovered this and came to alert Natsu, their alarm was understandable but Lucy had made it quite clear that she liked being with Fairy Tail. She wouldn't just leave without a word to anyone.
''If he tries to control her life again, we know what to do.'' Endymion pointed out. ''At any rate, I think this would be a good time to begin your plan.''
''Ah, right...''
Levy looked curious ''What plan?''
''Ah, you're back!''
Lucy turned at the voice, surprised to find Lisanna at the staircase. The girl quickly turned and hurried inside her house. Only then did Lucy remember that some of her friends knew where the spare key was.
Levy poked her head out, smiling when their eyes met ''Lu-chan! What took so long? Everything okay?''
''Y-yeah, I just...what's going on?''
Beckoning her over, the blue haired girl led her to the living room while the others brought her up to speed. Lucy looked on in amazement as the table was filled with a variety of food, a few drinks being set to the side by Mira, who waved happily. ''Welcome back!''
It hadn't escaped her that a good part of the selection was her favorites. ''What's all this?''
''It was Hope's idea.'' Levy informed brightly as the boy and Endymion joined them. ''We heard about how you went back home and I figured Endymion was right; you wouldn't just leave after finding your place here. Your letter implied that you were going to do something about your dad. They went tearing off after you but Hope decided to put this together. We all needed something like it after what happened and you deserve it for taking that jerk down a peg or two.''
''My, isn't this nice?'' Erza smiled at the bewildered Celestial mage.
''Yeah, good call, Hope. Couldn't have come at a better time.'' Gray added.
''What...but what if I hadn't come back?'' The words slipped out her mouth unbidden. ''If he still tried to keep me there...?''
''We would've come to take you back, of course.'' Hope's tone was so matter of fact that Lucy couldn't help smiling. He'd clearly been just as concerned as the rest but chose to prepare this to welcome her back. The whole gesture was so sweet that it warmed her heart.
''Oh, that looks so good!'' Happy then yelped ''Ow, Endymion-!''
''I already told you, Lucy gets to eat first.''
''Just be patient, Happy.'' Lisanna added, nodding. ''We did hijack her home so it's only fair.''
A smile grew on Lucy's face-she really did find a great home. How could her father ever expect her to give this up? ''Well then, what're we waiting for?''
Well, let's stop here.
This took way longer than I would've liked but I just couldn't find it in me to work on writing the stories for a while, it just wasn't any fun. Doesn't help that I lost track of the plans I had for this part so I had to start from scratch, still here we are.
So there you have it, the new ability is actually empathy. The experiment was meant to ensure that Hope would have Endymion's abilities. But it all went haywire so the process was unpredicatable and he's just unlocked it in all that chaos. He can't control it right now but it did let him pick up on the enemies' feelings which tipped him off about the traps and Jose's intentions. It'll give me more opportunities to have some fun with the story later on.
The hardest part was the fight with Jose, I just couldn't decide how to handle that. He's a Wizard Saint with a lot of power to his name so I wanted to show that. Except I didn't have much to work with seeing how he lost. Mira and Laxus gave him a hard time, keep in mind that Mira's stronger than she is in canon because she never lost her powers and as mentioned above, they're used to teamwork. Jose's own pride also got in his way and it lead to a fall. Still, given his and Phantom Lord's history, I'm thinking of another way to use him in the story-depends on if I can make it work...
The Council's really firm on the no fighting between the guilds thing, also Fairy Tail's reputation with them isn't the best. A bunch of the members would like to see them disbanded but this way the nicer members like Yajima and Belno (who weren't happy about this by the way) get to help. I skipped some parts like bits of the battle and the confrontation with Jude because it's a lot like in canon. I couldn't think of a way to change it so there was no point in repetition. And yeah, not everyone just breaks into Lucy's house, that whole thing was bugging me.
Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed it. Till next time!
