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Happy's eyes roamed the area, wonder clear in his tone as the enemies they defeated were led away ''I've seen this before and I still can't believe the knights are so okay working together with us.''
''Well, it was a lot more awkward at first but we figured things out.''
''Awkward is one way to put it.'' Hope spared his partner an amused look ''But yes, that sounds about right. There was some bad blood between us but you just have to give them a chance.''
Natsu was unimpressed ''Yeah, sure-let's ignore the fact that they're trying to take advantage of Hope and leaving us with no choice.''
One of the nearby knights shot him a dark look ''These are consequences of Fairy Tail's reckless behaviour. Maybe you should consider that before continuing to cause trouble.''
Even some in the team had to acknowledge the point but Natsu took umbrage ''Shut up! You got some nerve...''
The man's response was cut off before it began as Hope chose the moment to intervene ''It's okay, Natsu. That doesn't matter-you know I don't care about the reward. The important thing is we're helping the guild in the long run.''
Hope was perfectly aware that the knights didn't really have much say in the Council's choices. In fact a few had apologized to him earlier, also believing the situation to be unfair.
Thankfully, the boy's calmer stance helped defuse the situation, the knight giving his apology a moment later. Natsu was forced to do the same by an annoyed Lucy, who made a point of telling him to grow up. But even as she watched a couple of knights giving advice for them to do something about Natsu's temper, which lead to Hope defending him, admitting to having his own less than charitable moments in the past. No one was perfect after all. It could happen to any of them. She was struck by the thought that this also explained another difference between the old friends; Hope was forced to grow up too fast.
Their impromptu job done, the group took their way back home. Erza let out a breath ''Well, unexpected as that was, we made it in good time. I wouldn't want to think what would've happened if that dark guild had overwhelmed them.''
''Aye, I thought that captain guy was worrying too much but those guys really were sneaky to get the drop on that squad...good thing he found us.'' Happy agreed.
''And they did pay us so all the more better!'' Lucy chirped.
The cat snickered ''Of course you focus on that...''
''Well, excuse me for not living in a hovel all the way in the forest.''
''Hey, it's not a hovel!''
''No, you're right.'' Happy's satisfied expression faded as Gray carried on. ''Hovel's too nice, shanty, shed, hole in the ground? Take your pick, I got more.'' He and Lucy shared grins while the blue feline harrumphed, looking away.
Natsu's disdainful expression returned as they neared Era ''The week's done so that stupid deal's finally over-about time.''
''What're you even complaining about?'' Gray droned. ''It's bad enough we...''
Blinking as he saw Natsu's eyes narrow, his rival suddenly tensed as if he was bracing himself for battle. ''Whoa, what's wrong?''
''That scent is...I knew it!'' Whirling around to face the approaching figure, none other than Gajeel ''What the heck are you doing here?!''
Clearly just as taken aback as the rest were to see him, he could only retort ''That's what I wanna know!''
They had heard a few things about what happened to the Phantom members in passing but Gajeel's name had never come up. It left a number in the guild concerned over possible retaliation. Lucy involuntarily stepped back while Erza's hand hovered above her sword, making him click his tongue in annoyance ''Tone it down, idiots. No point fighting now.''
''Considering this is the Council's HQ...'' Gray started.
''Che, yeah-the old hag over there just wanted me to come. No clue why but she said it'd help, all we did was wait.'' Scoffing, he stuffed his hands in his pockets.
A thought occurred to Endymion, remembering a conversation from earlier ''Wait, you...couldn't be the reason Councilwoman Belno wanted us to come back as soon as possible?''
Gajeel blinked ''You know her?''
"I guess we could go and ask. She did want to talk to us." Gray mused.
''Is there even any point now? It's been hours since we left.'' Happy remarked.
''Well, yeah-that's because someone...'' Gray's pointed look at Natsu was lost on no one. ''...just had to be an idiot and forced to take the long route-again.''
''I can't help the train making me sick!''
''You could if you'd just stayed in the sphere Hope cast for you!''
Tuning out his grumbling with long ease of practice, Happy looked at Gajeel ''So motion sickness really happens to all dragon slayers? Laxus won't say anything...not that I blame him...'' He suspected the blond wanted to avoid Natsu's taunting ''...which leaves you.''
Gajeel shrugged ''Never met any besides this hothead, cat.''
Conceding the point, Happy saw Erza turn to them ''So what have you been up to?'' A pause ''You haven't...joined the Council, have you?''
The random question left him choking in surprise while the rest stared at her, similarly thrown for a loop.
''How exactly did you make that leap?'' Endymion clarified.
''Seriously...'' Lucy agreed. ''...the day that happens is the day Natsu becomes the next Loke.''
''...Fair enough. What was I thinking...?''
Gajeel would've been offended if he didn't know it was the truth. Natsu suddenly he let out a surprised cry ''Wait, I almost forgot! You said something about the dragons after our battle. What do you know?''
''Oh, come to think of it...'' Hope hadn't even considered that Gajeel was in a similar position to Natsu. What did he make of the situation with the dragons? ''...he mentioned your mentor disappearing, did you try to look for him?''
''I stopped years ago.''
It was a mixture of the simple answer and the nonchalant tone that served to fuel Natsu's immediate response ''What?! You just gave up on your own parent?''
Red eyes narrowed at dark green ''What's it to you? I can't go letting a pointless search hold my life up forever. Metalicana would just turn up when he feels like it, it's the way he rolls.''
Sad as it was, the team could see his reasoning. Aware that many people had chalked dragons up as extinct, it meant that they were really well hidden or simply gone. Little wonder that such a long search without any clues or leads could cause a person to eventually call it off.
Natsu couldn't let this stand ''How can you just leave things this way? You were family! Is that all he meant to you?!''
''Back off.'' He fired back at once.
''Stop.'' Lucy added, frowning. ''It doesn't matter how you feel about this, it's his choice.''
Happy nodded, believing that it wasn't worth getting worked up over. Natsu grinding his teeth as Gajeel added ''Listen to her...''
The sound of a door suddenly being flung open reached their ears as a little boy ran out of a building. Furious tears fell down his face as a man clad in a Rune Knight uniform arrived ''Wait, you should...''
''Shut up! You're all liars-I've had it. Leave me alone!''
''Spada...!'' The cry fell on deaf ears as the boy took off in the direction of the forest.
''Uh...what was that about?'' Happy asked tentatively.
''Oh, you're...'' The man's shoulders slumped ''...actually, would you consider helping me? We messed up terribly and I have no idea to fix this.''
''I take it this has to do with the child. Is he a relative of yours?'' Erza queried.
''Sort of, his older brother Kyle was a fellow knight. Kyle took of him nearly all their lives and we became close. The kid's like an honorary little brother to all of us-they're a real good sort. Kyle always tried to do right by all of us and...look at this...''
Gray quirked a brow ''...Why do you keep talking about the guy like...''
''...He took a mission with a few of our other members over a month ago. Now some of our missions have unexpected surprises, we try to be ready for anything. Kyle and the others were just supposed to investigate some rumours about a dark guild's scheme. Everything was fine, we didn't have any reason to worry...but the time just kept passing and we never heard from any of them.'' His expression darkened. ''Spada was worried sick so we kept trying to reassure him, there was no sign of them anywhere. Then we suddenly heard how one of the squad members was found dead in another town, a few people actually saw them go into a ravine and...There was no sign of them ever coming out no matter how much we looked.''
Lucy's heart sank ''Oh, no...''
''He died.'' A grimace crossed the knight's features at Gajeel's blunt statement but there was no argument.
Natsu's eyes were wide ''Hold up, what? You don't know that for sure-he could be alive. That's not proof!''
''There's no proof to say otherwise.'' Erza's expression was grim. ''And I don't think such a caring brother would be cruel enough to leave Spada for so long if he could come back.''
Any possible retort died in his mouth at this, the knight nodding ''There's no way...he loved Spada. He would've fought tooth and nail to make it home.'' His fists clenched ''Don't you get it? We kept telling ourselves the same, believing in the best possibility. The investigation's still going but...none of it is promising. Spada hoped for the best because of us, we lifted the kid's expectations up all this time only for everything to blow up in his face. No wonder he can't stand the sight of us.''
''They were your friends, it's only natural.'' Lucy offered.
But he shook his head ''We should've...I keep thinking what we could've done differently and...I don't even know where he would be...''
''In the forest...'' He blinked at Hope, whose eyes shimmered as he continued surveying the area. ''...he's just stopped running. There's this big tree hollow...guys, I...''
Gray could already where this was going ''We know, buddy. You're not the only one who wants to help.''
''Aye! I'd hate to leave things like this, we can find the kid just like that!'' Happy snapped his fingers for emphasis.
The knight perked up ''Oh, would you? I'd go myself but I think seeing any of us would make things worse. I'd really appreciate it.''
It took Gajeel a moment to realize that he was included ''Hold on a...''
''Please-it won't be without payment, of course. I just want to make sure Spada's safe!''
''...Might as well since I'm already here.''
Gajeel just wanted to make some money on the side-he didn't have much of a luxury to be choosy in his situation. Phantom Lord's name was now dirt, he was lucky to find anyone willing to give him a job. Finding the kid was easy enough, especially with their group.
He didn't really want to make small talk with the team but something about the earlier exchange had him rather curious. ''Guess the White Paladin's every bit as helpful as the stories make him out to be, huh? Might want to watch out before someone takes advantage of that.''
''...You're a few years too late, I'm afraid.''
Endymion tensed, idly noting Gajeel stopping in surprise. It might have been that long but the day still angered him. They'd just been stopping to help after a storm damaged a town, everything seemed ordinary. But that was the trap. It had been a gradual thing, people seemed to come up with excuses to keep them there and ask for more help. Things soon came to ahead when the two of them agreed to press for answers and one of the people went so far as to attack Hope to force him to stay. As they fought the assailants off, a few travellers at the inn had also happened to find out. Similarly furious as they cottoned on to the truth, they readily helped the pair put a stop to it all.
But the damage had been done. Hope had been hurt bad and neither of them had been anywhere near willing to continue their work for a while. To this day, Endymion didn't know who he was angrier with, the townspeople or himself for failing to protect his partner.
It had been the first time Hope ever regretted choosing to do what he did as the White Paladin. Of course he knew there were terrible people out there but to say that experience had been a shock was an understatement. It was a reminder of how naive he was. Even now, he had much to learn.
''Natsu, are you okay?''
Happy's query brought his attention to the dragon slayer in question, whose expression was as disgruntled as it had been for a good part of the day.
''I don't like this.''
Lucy blinked as Erza gave him a suspicious look, thinking of his earlier protestations. He was free to think what he wants but if he tried something like that with Spada...
Happy suddenly pointed out the figure just ahead. Momentarily taken aback, Spada's eyes narrowed ''You guys were...I get it, they sent you after me. Well, forget about me going back there...''
''That's not it.'' Erza headed him off. ''They're just worried about you.''
''No one said you had to go back to them right away, it's being here that's the problem.'' Endymion added. ''Simply going to Era would do just fine, but there's no rush. Take your time and we'll see what to do from there.''
''You've had a nasty shock, just settle down and try to think about what you want to do. We're here to help.'' Lucy put in.
''I...okay.''
As Spada clearly wasn't ready to go back, they elected to settle at the base of a big tree hollow and give him some time...
He refused Happy's offer of food but took some water, settling his head on his knees. Happy floated over to Lucy, looking lost ''I don't know what to say to help...''
''It's okay. We just have to be there, I don't think words are going to make up for this.'' He nodded as she patted his head consolingly.
Minutes later, Spada's voice broke the ensuing silence ''...So how come you guys came at all? You didn't have to.''
''We just happened to be there. Can't exactly go turning down a chance for money now.'' Gajeel shrugged.
Gray gave him an unimpressed look ''...He could have worded that better but he's not wrong...''
Spada didn't seem to mind though ''I didn't think people in Fairy Tail cared about that much about money.''
''Who said I'm with them?''
The boy blinked, not expecting that but Happy spoke up then ''Ever hear of Gajeel Redfox?''
His expression was enough of an answer ''Wait, wait, you're him?'' Spada looked between them ''...Weren't you guys just at war?''
''Eh, it's done and done.'' Gajeel leaned back.
Admittedly unsure what to make of him, Hope hadn't detected any malice and he knew Endymion would never have kept quiet if he had. Plus, if Gajeel knew about the bombs...''Well, that's true. There's really no need to go picking fights, especially now that we're done dealing with the aftermath.''
''Oh yeah, I heard about that. It's kind of a low move to force on you...'' No one had missed the recognition on the young boy's face when he saw Hope earlier, which they figured made sense given his visits to Era. ''...everyone said so too...''
''Yeah, well they didn't do much to show for it. They just do whatever the Council assholes tell them to.'' Natsu harrumphed.
''Hey, don't blame them!'' Spada's immediate defence came as a surprise ''Just because they answer to the Council doesn't make it their fault.''
''Weren't you just really pissed off with them?''
''...That's different...they...'' Spada's head lowered.
''We know about the situation.'' Endymion put in when it looked like he wasn't going to continue. ''Your friend admitted that they made a mistake but they simply wanted to believe in their comrades. Perhaps it was naive but it's hardly a crime, they were as devastated as you are. I'm sure.''
Spada nodded, furiously rubbing his eyes ''It's just...it's stupid...why did they have to go and...I knew things were bad but I trusted them. I thought they knew what they were talking about...I keep thinking if we'd just tried...if we'd known, maybe Kyle would've...''
''Ah, kid-let me stop you right there.'' Gray cut in. ''Don't do this to yourself. I know what it's like thinking about what ifs, and wishing things were different. It doesn't do you any good-you'll just drive yourself crazy.''
Spada could see the logic in that, but it was hard to stop. Especially when it felt like Kyle might have still been here if things were even a little different...
''I don't get it.'' They looked at Natsu ''How are you just writing this off? You don't know that they died. They could be alive...''
Gray held back a groan while Erza scowled. Gajeel let out an annoyed grunt. He'd freely admit to being an asshole but even he wasn't tactless enough to do this.
''Shut up!'' Spada snapped ''You think we want to believe they're gone, you idiot? That I want Kyle to be dead?! You think that it stopped hurting over the past two days? We don't have a choice, everyone tried to find out and they worked to find any leads. The last place they were seen looks like some kind of massacre took place, even searching for any signs of magic turned up with nothing, okay?! We can't keep this up, how long can we deny something that's right in front of us? Waiting for an answer that's never going to come is awful, I...can't do that. Besides, it has nothing to do with you so stay out of it!''
Gray and Endymion took the moment to drag Natsu out, ignoring his protests as Gajeel followed them. The sight of the sobbing Spada clinging to Hope as the older boy held him kicked the wind out of the hot-headed teen's sails.
''Nice going, Salamander.'' Gray had to admit, Gajeel took the words out of his mouth.
His attention was back on Natsu once they were out of earshot ''Okay, what the hell was that?''
Bristling, he pulled himself up ''It's just true, why are you all giving up? It doesn't have to be like this.''
''How diluted is your hearing? They don't WANT to believe this. That guy described everything, they tried to find their friends for so long and look what happened. What choice do they have? They can't keep denying the facts. Are they just supposed to believe and hold out for something that's never going to happen? That's too damn cruel and you know it.''
Natsu grit his teeth. A part of him knew they were right and he didn't want to admit it-he just couldn't say the words. All of this sat so wrong with him.
''...This has to do with your search for Igneel.'' It wasn't a question and they all knew it. ''You're so desperate to believe that you want others to feel the same, or you feel like you'll have to question your own situation. It seems this is already leaving you in doubt, wondering how to proceed.''
Endymion's sharp, knowing gaze wasn't lost on Natsu, who was left floundering ''T-that's...no, that's not-it doesn't change anything! I won't...you don't know what you're talking about.''
''If you say so.'' The phoenix made no effort to spare the skepticism in his tone. ''I'll get to the point, perhaps you should consider others' points of view before ramming yours at them. More importantly, don't project your beliefs on a grieving child.''
Happy's attempt to speak up for his partner quickly fell flat as he found that he couldn't put his heart in it. Loyal as he was, even he could admit Natsu had really put his foot in his mouth there. He could only fidget under Spada's glare, knowing his ire wasn't unjustified.
Fortunately, Hope proceeded to intervene''You seem close with the knights. Our new employer was really worried about you-he never even said anything about making you come back. His only concern was your safety.''
''...Yeah...they're...I know they care. Nothing like what that jerk says...'' Spada added darkly.
''Mm, I know. They helped me out a few times before-even with the Council's new deal, some of them actually apologized. I don't blame them though.''
''That's good. Well, I couldn't take staying there anymore...but I don't hate them. I thought it was bad enough when we got the news two days ago but then...'' Shaking his head, Spada blinked back tears. ''...I know they tried to help, they always have. It's always been just me and Kyle for so long and then...we just fit in. It's probably weird but...''
''Not at all. They're your family, aren't they?'' Hope received a slow nod ''No one said family had to be about blood ties, the family you choose is just as important. It's something I learned from Fairy Tail.''
''They're your family too?''
''Yeah, for a long time it's just been me and Endymion. I don't know where I'd be without him...''
The phoenix's gaze softened. Really, Hope gave him far too much credit. Their first meeting had gone anything but well. He'd been quite terrible to the boy for a while, much to his everlasting shame. Hope's kindness and resilience were the reason they had come this far.
''...but then we found Fairy Tail. I didn't think I could fit in but I'm really grateful to everyone for accepting me. In the end, we choose to be a family-that's what counts.''
Erza watched the brunet with a growing smile. Spada's eyes widening a bit as he muttered ''...That's like with us...'' Unable to help his curiosity, he added ''...so how come the guild master adopted you?''
''I'm not all that sure. He was trying to show me what a family would be like, back then I had a hard time believing I'd find one at all. But I'm glad he proved me wrong.''
Unwilling to let Hope downplay his achievements again, Happy put in his piece ''Master actually had his own issues with his family. You might have seen Laxus before, Spada. I know he's been to Era a bunch of times. Anyway, they didn't get along for a long time. Hope's the reason they can really be a family again. It's why Laxus practically adopted him too.''
Hope thought that was overstating it but knew pointing it out wouldn't get anywhere. ''That's more or less what happened. We've had our ups and down, it's normal but a real family's always going to be there for you.''
Lucy agreed ''It's obvious you all care about each other. We know the knights are going to have your back. Have they given you any reason to think otherwise?'' Spada shook his head. ''There you go then.''
''...Does it get any better?''
''It probably doesn't seem like it now but...I won't lie and tell you losing someone you care for hurts any less. But it does get easier some days-it helps to know you're not alone.'' Watching him now made Lucy think back on the days after her mother passed away, everything had just seemed bleak. Her father had shut himself away and she couldn't deal with it all but she'd had Cancer and Aquarius. Both couldn't stay in this world for long but they had tried to help in their own way. Then there were the staff at the mansion, who'd done their best to reach out to her. She was ever so grateful to them.
''The people you love wouldn't want you to dwell endlessly, you were right. Moving on might be difficult but it's for the best.'' Endymion put in.
''...Even if I...don't know what to do...if I mess up so much...?''
Even Gajeel put in his piece ''It's your life, kid. Figure it out. If people don't like that, screw 'em.''
Thinking it all over, Spada had one thing to say ''...Thank you.''
The night sailed in before they even realized, leading Erza to suggest that they camp here. Gajeel's attempt to argue was halted by her producing two tents and a few makeshift beds. He could only stare as she continued to dig around her cart of massive supplies. ''...The hell?''
''Does she...carry all that stuff everywhere?'' Spada managed as she readily handed Hope some cooking supplies.
''It's Erza. She just does stuff and you learn to accept it.'' Gray deadpanned.
''I thought there was that spell with the dimension thing to keep your stuff close?''
''Where do you think her weapons go?''
This left Spada wondering just how many weapons she carried. Only when Happy admitted to losing track at a hundred something, counting the ones in her room did he realize that he said it out loud. ''Wait, over a hundred? Why...?''
''You don't want to know.'' The two assured at once.
''Erza's tastes are really, really weird sometimes.'' Happy added.
''What was that?''
He flew behind Hope with a squeak ''Nothing, Ma'am!''
Once he was done, Hope handed everyone their share of food. They soon found that despite him getting along with them, even Gajeel with his brutal honesty (which he actually seemed to appreciate), Spada clearly did not want to talk to Natsu.
One glance at Happy's bowl left him wondering ''...Are you even supposed to eat that with fish?''
''He'd eat everything with fish if it was up to him.'' Lucy droned.
''I'm convinced his taste buds are about as dead as his partner's.'' Gray added, nodding.
''Change that 'I' to a 'we' and I'd agree with you.'' Endymion put in.
''Hey!''
Hope pointedly ignored the twin protests ''Happy, how many times have you asked for fish with pancakes? Natsu, you know why none of us trust you to cook. Remember what happened with Elfman and the omelette? He couldn't look at spices without cringing for three days.''
''That was his own fault!''
''Yeah, really helping your case there, Ash-brain.'' Gray didn't even bother pointing out that the incident had only been one example.
Spada blanched at the thought of pancakes with fish ''What was that back there about bad taste?''
The cat pouted as Erza gave a small smirk. Gajeel rolling his eyes ''You guys are dorks.''
''Oh, come on-Phantom must've been really boring compared to us.'' Happy fired back.
''It was definitely quieter.''
''You're no fun.''
Lucy found herself thinking back to the days where she contemplated joining said guild, once again very glad for her choice. ''For once I agree, Fairy Tail definitely sounds much more fun. Don't you think, Spada?''
''Mmhm, I know it's chaotic and all but yeah. I don't think everyone in the knights liked Phantom Lord much anyway...'' In fact, judging by the stories he'd heard, a bunch of the members seemed to be real jerks.
''Still sulking?''
Natsu didn't bother looking up as Hope sat next to him. ''I think Gray and Endymion handled the lecture part so let's move on. You want to talk?''
''...I don't like this.'' Annoyed at his own inability to explain how he felt, he could only carry on ''It feels like they gave up, like they wrote it all off...and that idiot Gajeel doesn't even care about finding his parent!''
''You're projecting again.'' No response. ''Natsu, be honest, do you really think what you said to Spada was okay?'' The shame that flashed over his features gave the answer. ''It's great to believe something-to have faith but...sometimes it can just wear you down. People have limits. I don't think that's anything to be ashamed of. You never liked it when people commented about you and Igneel, how do you think Spada feels? Just because you don't like Gajeel's choice doesn't mean you get to make assumptions, he has his reasons just like you do yours for your own.'' Natsu's eyes were on the ground. ''Think about it, okay?''
The next morning...
Spada didn't think he'd be able to sleep but the exhaustion of the last few days seemed to have caught up to him. Or perhaps it was the company, he certainly felt better after talking to everyone...
He found his eyes falling on Hope, who was just waking up too. He'd known of the White Paladin for years, Kyle and the others had been quite impressed. Spada had personally quite liked the stories, much more so now that he'd met the genuine article.
The thought did bring to mind something that he'd been wondering about. What did Hope mean by Fairy Tail being the only family he could remember?
''Exactly what you heard.'' Oh, had he said that out loud?
The startled boy looked back at Erza, who proceeded to elaborate. Spada's mouth fell at the end of the retelling while Gajeel, despite not showing it, was just as taken aback. ''That's...that's really messed up. Why...?''
''Like anything can justify that.'' He found himself nodding to Gray. Spada felt terrible, he'd been envious of Hope when the talk shifted to Hope and Laxus last night, bitter that the older boy still had his brother. Kyle had had his back practically all his life and then there were the knights. Having a family at all was something Hope had just gotten used to as of the last couple of years. He couldn't imagine what that was like...
''Well, then...'' Endymion began as he and Hope rejoined them ''...what do you intend to do now, Spada? Shall we head back to Era?''
Nodding after almost a minute, he found his voice ''...Can you guys come too?''
It wasn't long before they found their new client, having been wandering Era with a few friends. All of whom were delighted to see Spada, the boy's attempted apologies completely ignored as a couple of them swept him up in a hug. Thanking the group at large, they began debating plans and made sure to involve the boy, Spada's tears now were of the joyous variety, touched beyond words that his family would still be there for him.
Natsu kept watching them even as they walked away. He couldn't say he cared for the knights but they truly did look like a family. It was clear that the last few days wore heavily on them but their clear relief at Spada's arrival seemed to energize them.
He hated to admit it but Endymion nailed the issue on the head. Everything about this situation had him thinking of his missing father and his continuing search. It was indeed why this situation left him so nettled. The mere thought of giving up on his foster father wasn't something he could bear.
He hadn't really stopped think about the search for a long time. It was just natural for him to keep going. Natsu had been asked one question more than once by a number of his guildmates, even Makarov at one point and he never found an answer.
What would happen when he found Igneel? What would it mean?
Lost in his musings, he only turned when the client arrived, expressing his gratitude. The client handed payment as promised. Which was when Lucy noticed something ''Wait, where's Gajeel?''
''Oh, he left just after you all came.'' He offered. ''Said something about wanting to keep going...''
''Just like that?'' Happy blinked.
''Actually, do you happen to know if he was in the Council HQ? Endymion was wondering if Councilwoman Belno wanted us to meet him.'' Erza recalled.
''Hm, that might actually be true.'' The knight admitted. ''I hear those two knew each other for a long time. Belno-sama helped him out of a big jam before and he did a few favors for her in return. I wouldn't be surprised if he was here to see her.''
''How about that...'' Belno was well known for her somewhat stern but fair approach. Something that, like last night, left Gray re-evaluating his opinon of the dragon slayer. ''...guess people never give him much credit after all.''
Shortly after their return to Magnolia, they found Fairy Tail in quite a bit of disarray. Their new building was almost ready but something was clearly amiss.
''Mira!'' Happy flew over to the girl ''What's going on?''
''Well...''
The revelation threw them for a loop, Erza verbalizing their shock ''What do you mean, Loke left?!''
Loke had been acting rather strangely, something that hadn't gone amiss in the guild. But whatever was going on, he was determined to keep to himself. Everything seemed to be fine so they hadn't known anything was amiss until he suddenly disappeared leaving a letter which stated his intentions behind.
''And that's all you found?'' Endymion clarified.
Elfman nodded ''His girlfriends told us he broke up with them. They're the ones who found the letter. I tried using one of my forms to track him down but the scent pretty much faded away right not too far away from Magnolia. We tried to look from there too but it was no good.''
''Cana's trying to use her magic to help and Mystogan went off to track him down. The problem is, we don't have much to go on.'' Levy bit her lip. ''Thinking back, we really don't know much about Loke at all...''
''Yeah, I've been meaning to ask. I heard a whole bunch of stories about Loke in magazines and stuff but they always talk about his time in Fairy Tail, all they had was guesses about before...'' Lucy mused.
''That's pretty much what we have too.'' Gray informed.
The solid script mage nodded ''He always avoided talking about it no matter what. Bickslow just made a joke about him having a bad relationship with a Celestial mage since they seem to scare him and he rolled with it. I mean, most of us don't like talking about the past so I get it, but the way he handled it...'' She paused. ''...actually, Hope, didn't you say something about how your empathy magic reacted to Loke?''
Nodding, the boy recounted what happened at the time. She pursed her lips ''So, even worse than his usual evasiveness...which means whatever happened, it might be recent. I heard him make jokes about how he wanted to leave the past behind but now I'm wondering how true that was...''
''Actually...Gramps? Didn't he ever tell you anything about himself when he joined?'' Gray wanted to know.
''Not much to go on, really...he liked to call himself a rolling stone. He never really stuck around in one place for long before coming here. I think the longest he stayed was in Freesia...'' Makarov had a thought. ''...that's where Blue Pegasus' HQ is...hang on, brats. I'll try talking to Bob...''
The flamboyant man picked up the call quickly, glad to hear from his old friend. Concern was evident in his voice as he clarified ''Wait, so he just disappeared?''
''Yeah, we can't figure it out.'' He groused. ''Leaving the guild is one thing, it's the way he disappeared that's really worrying. He's been acting so strane lately too. We don't exactly have much to go on when it comes to his background but I know he spent at least a year in your town. I was wondering if you could help us.''
''Absolutely, Makky. I'd be pretty worried if it was one of my members. Let me think...'' Bob crossed his arms. ''...oh! Hold on-Eve, there you are. Can you come here?''
A blond boy in a suit appeared on the lacrima a moment later before Bob spoke ''I know this was before you joined us but didn't you mention meeting Loke before?''
''Before you joined...?'' Makarov arched an eye, as curious as the onlookers.
''Oh, I was a Rune Knight before I decided to join Blue Pegasus, Master Makarov.'' He explained. ''And actually, yes-we have met-though I almost didn't recognize Loke. He's changed so much.''
''What was he like before?'' Lisanna prompted.
''In one word-haggard...it was like the world just kicked him down over and over. I was still a trainee so I couldn't really be involved in the investigation but he just looked like he'd given up on everything.''
Alarm surged at this revelation, especially for the Fairy Tail members, Makarov immediately wanting to know about said investigation.
''Well...he was suspected of being involved in a murder.''
''Murder?!'' Even Bob was stunned at this.
''Oh, don't worry-he was acquitted.'' Eve was hasty to reassure ''It was a misunderstanding. Well...'' His expression was awkward as he glanced at Bob. ''...the victim's name was Karen Lilica.''
Makarov held back a wince at his friend's expression. He remembered all too well what happened back then-Karen had been on a job and was apparently overpowered. She wasn't in any state to go in the first place but had been too stubborn to back down. ''Wait, how was Loke involved? Did they know each other?''
''I think so-I just never found out how...her boyfriend said one of her spirits got her killed but...''
''It wasn't true...'' Bob sighed. ''...I tried explaining but Hibiki just wouldn't listen to me. Karen was an accomplished Celestial mage but...the way she treated her spirits sometimes was just...''
Lucy couldn't help the surge of annoyance that rose within her at the thought of celestial spirits being mistreated. They were wonderful beings who were ready to fight at their wizard's behest even at risk to their own lives, the least people could do was treat them with some measure of decency. ''What did Loke have to do with it though?''
''I'm not all that certain, actually.'' Bob frowned in thought. ''She talked about him a few times so I thought they were friends. But then she started complaining about him being in her way and wishing they'd never met...''
''Can we talk to her boyfriend, Master Bob? He might know more.'' Levy put in.
''I would love to help, dear, but Hibiki left a while back. He usually keeps to himself around this time of the year, it's when she died.''
Eve rubbed the back of his head ''Sorry, that's all we really know.''
''No, it's plenty. We appreciate it.'' Endymion looked at the others ''So, we know Loke has issues with celestial mages to the point that he can hardly stay within a few feet around Lucy. He always evades the past and now he disappears around the anniversary of that woman's death...''
''Yeah, if this isn't related, I'm an elephant.'' Gray nodded.
Happy wound up voicing the question most had in mind ''You don't think he blames himself for what happened?''
''Why though? It's not like he killed her-no way.'' Natsu added.
''Hmm...'' Lucy grabbed one of her keys. ''...Gate of the Southern Cross, I open thee! Crux!''A spirit with a humanoid body and the head of a large silver cross appeared.
Natsu blinked twice ''Hey, why's he sleeping?!''
''...Lucy, are you going somewhere with this?'' Cana clarified.
''Oh, it's fine.'' Both looked at Endymion ''I've heard of this spirit. Crux is essentially an encyclopaedia of the Celestial Realm.''
Lucy smiled ''Exactly! Grandpa Crux knows loads about spirits and their mages. If anyone can tell us about Karen and Loke, it's him.''
''Cool, cool-'' Elfman nodded. ''-only, can he wake up long enough to do that?''
''...Yeah, that's always been a bit of a problem...''
Despite appearances, calling Crux turned out to be the right call. Thanks to his information, not only did they fully understand the situation but they had a good guess of Loke's whereabouts.
Loke was in fact, Leo the lion, leader of the Zodiac Spirits. He had been Karen's spirit years ago along with Aries, a fellow Zodiac But Karen treated Aries terribly and Loke wouldn't stand for it. Most of his attempts to defend his friend failed until he elected to remain in this world so Karen couldn't summon another spirit. But this was dangerous as Celestial Spirits needed to return to their realm from time. Yet, Loke had managed to stay. But due to the strain he underwent, he couldn't really keep track of what was happening with Karen. He never expected that Karen would insist on going to a job regardless of the situation, where another mage killed her.
As they concluded, Loke did in fact blame himself. He couldn't go back to his world, not that he would've anyway, roaming the earth until today. But his time was coming to an end; he simply couldn't keep carrying on like this. If something wasn't done, Loke would die.
''Man, do things finally make sense...that idiot.'' Elfman growled.
''You said it, we better straighten this out and soon.'' Natsu grumbled. ''What kind of messed up rules does the Celestial World have? Why the hell is Loke getting punished?''
Makarov didn't understand it either. Were spirits just supposed to bear this sort of abuse? ''Thinking back, he once told me Hope was one of the most courageous people he'd ever met.'' At the boy's surprise, he added ''It was back when you came clean to everyone. He thought it was amazing that you did at all, that facing up to the past, trusting us like that...it showed courage and great strength of heart. The way he talked back then...I couldn't be sure why it bugged me...''
''He must have...'' Lucy paused at the sight of a figure up ahead. ''...hey, is that...''
Endymion shook his head, it wasn't Loke. In fact, there were two young men. One was dark skinned with narrow eyes and dark hair, the other was fair with somewhat messy sandy hair. Both looked somewhat familiar to the group, Levy trying to figure out why.
''You're Fairy Tail!'' The former frowned. ''Why are you here?''
His companion's eyes narrowed ''The fact that you even are...where's Loke? If anyone would know...''
''Whoa, hold up!'' Cana cut in. ''That's what we're trying to figure out!''
''We just found out more about him today, what's with all the hostility?'' Happy demanded.
A scoff escaped him ''Of course he kept it a secret...''
It hit Levy then, the two were Blue Pegasus members who had gained quite a bit of reputation ''Wait, you're Hibiki, aren't you? So Master Bob was right about you blaming Loke...''
''Because it was his fault-he was supposed to protect her! Then he just ran and he's living it up like nothing happened!''
''Don't make assumptions!'' Makarov snapped. ''He might have hidden a lot from us but we know his character. Loke's not the sort who would ever let something like this slide.''
''It's a miracle he hasn't died. She was horrible to her spirits. He just bore the punishment all this time, he did it to defend a dear friend and now he thinks he deserves it just for doing the right thing. He's dying! Don't you see how awful this is?'' Lucy demanded.
''He failed our friend when she needed him. They just gave her trouble, maybe he's being punished for a reason!'' Ren shot back.
Natsu bristled ''You little...!''
''...You're awfully quick to point the blame everywhere.''
Everyone looked at Hope, Hibiki's eyes narrowing ''What's that supposed to mean?''
''Where were you?'' The question made them stop. ''You knew Karen Lilica was cruel to her spirits. It's been going on even when Bob-san told her to stop over and over. You understand that spirits aren't tools. Why didn't you do anything then?''
Cana nodded ''Things probably wouldn't have gotten anywhere near as bad-did you even try? Or were you playboys too charmed by her pretty looks to even consider what a rotten piece of work she was?''
''Oh, I think the answer's pretty clear.'' Lisanna made no effort to hide her disdain. ''We all know the situation turned out like this because she pushed Loke into a corner. Did you just come this whole way to blame the victim?''
Neither could respond, Erza crossed her arms ''Now since we've gotten that out of the way, we're going to keep looking for our friend. I highly doubt you can be trusted to help so stay out of our way.''
''Loke!''
The wayward spirit froze ''W-what...you...why are you all...?''
''To find you, obviously! What did you think would happen when you just up and vanish like that?'' Makarov demanded.
He turned away ''...If you're here, you know what I've done...''
''We know you're blaming yourself for something completely out of your control.'' Erza countered. ''And before you try to argue, we've heard everything. That woman didn't care about any of her spirits; you weren't in the wrong for wanting to defend a friend. I actually dread to think what would've happened to Aries without you there.''
''Aye, it's totally unfair to blame you!'' Happy agreed.
''It didn't have to be like this, Loke-san. There has to be some way we can help.'' Hope added.
''...It's too late. Thank you, all...I really appreciate this but I don't deserve any of it. All this time, I've just been trying to run away and avoid the past, just hiding my head in the sand to live in the here and now. But that was all an act, I couldn't ever forget my sin.''
''How is protecting your friend...?'' Natsu started heatedly.
But Loke clearly wasn't listening, looking back at what they now knew to be Karen's grave. ''Can you understand the sorrow of a star that can't return to the heavens? I just planned to wander around, wasting my days till my inevitable death. I never planned to get attached-but then I found Fairy Tail and I clearly never stood a chance. It's also why I left-you guys deserve much better than me. I never wanted to drag you all into my trouble.''
''You didn't-we chose to help. Why is that so hard to understand?'' Lisanna demanded.
''If you thought we were simply going to back down then you don't know Fairy Tail at all.'' Endymion chipped in.
''Right, it's unmanly to leave a friend behind. How could you think we'd...oh, crap!'' Elfman blanched at the sight of Loke's hand flickering, for a moment he became see through. ''Okay, enough talk, it's time for action!''
''What do we do though?'' Happy fretted.
Despite everything, Loke's heart warmed at the sight of them worrying so much over him. He had hidden so much from them, too afraid to open up when he knew his eventual fate and look at them now. What did he to do deserve them...?
All were oblivious to the pair of eyes watching everything from afar, keeping track of the spirit as he started to fade and his friends trying to save him.
''Can't we do something about his banishment? Crux mentioned that too.'' Cana recalled.
''Yeah, he thought our only choice would be to return him to the Celestial World...but how do we do that without his key?'' Hope bit his lip. Thinking back, even Crux had no idea where Loke's key was. All he could offer was a theory that its disappearance has to do with his exile.
''Well, it can't be our only option...'' Makarov cupped his chin ''...I've heard of a few spirits who can crossover-especially to places abundant with celestial energy.''
Lucy nodded when his eyes fell on her ''It was a really long time ago so I'm not clear on the details either. The stories described it as using their magic to reach the Celestial World, the keys are usually the focus for our magic but it isn't impossible without one.''
''That might be what we need. You're our best shot here, Lu-chan.'' Levy missed Loke's surprise as he realized what they were getting at.
''Leave it to me.''
''Wait, no-!'' But she walked past Loke, magic pooling around her in moments.
''Open, gate of the Lion!'' Lucy grit her teeth, gathering more power as she tried again ''Open, gate of the Lion!''
Yet again, nothing happened. ''Can't we do something? If we try gathering our magic with hers...''
''You've got to stop her!'' Erza turned with Loke to a start. ''There's a reason people stopped doing this. It's too dangerous, the keys aren't just a focus, they protect the user. If mages try to force open a path to the Celestial World...''
''I can do this!'' Lucy declared ''Fairy Tail was there for me when I needed the most...Loke, you even helped me before when you had no reason to-after all the terrible mages you saw before. Your death won't solve anything; it'll just leave everyone sad. How do you think Aries would feel?!'' He couldn't meet her gaze, his expression pained at the thought. ''I won't stand for this! You both deserved better. If this is the kind of law the Celestial World supports then it has to change!''
Her magic surged even further as if in response to her determination. Then, to general amazement, her spirits appeared for a few moments, watching Loke. Plue even gave him a hug as Lucy fell to her knees and they were gone. Suddenly, everything seemed to come to a standstill, the skies shone before a brilliant light descended. It faded to reveal the towering, powerful figure that was...
''T-the Celestial King...?'' Loke could barely believe it. He'd actually come?
''That's him?'' Elfman managed.
Happy's jaw dropped ''Whoa...''
''It's been long, my old friend.'' His deep voice rumbled ''I am sorry we had to meet in this state but it seems the time has come for you to face your dues.''
The implication made Makarov bristle ''You too?! What kind of world are you running here-expecting spirits to put up with abuse? I get loyalty but that's ridiculous!''
If the berating bothered the king, he made no sign of it. ''Such is the decree of the stars, spirits have to protect their mages but Leo failed and he must face the consequences.''
''Oh, of all the absurd-just what do you think he's been doing all those years?'' Endymion retorted.
''Yeah, back off old man!'' Natsu cried.
''Was he just supposed to let his friend suffer all this time?'' Hope pressed. ''This is all too cruel, can't you please give him a chance?''
''He wasn't wrong in standing up to Karen and no one has any right to say otherwise. You're the king, can't you do something?'' Lisanna added.
''Exactly.'' Lucy stepped up ''We're not about to give up now. Those messed up laws need to be changed, Loke deserves a chance and we're making sure he's getting one.''
Loke knew they wanted to help but the sight of everyone facing the highest authority of his world left him speechless. The King's expression was unreadable as his eyes surveyed them all.
''I see...'' To Loke, he added ''...the stars continue to shine on you. Perhaps my judgment was in error. As they said, caring for a friend is no sin. You found fine comrades, cherish them as they do you.''
Did that mean...?
The king's expression softened ''Consider his exile a thing of the past. He is to return to the Celestial World to heal and then...'' His eyes traveled from Loke to Lucy ''...you are to be this splendid mage's spirit. They have yet to give up on you, do not give up on yourself again.''
Loke could barely even acknowledge his friends' cheers, still utterly blown away. He was really...? The king himself had...?
Before he knew it, the king was already leaving. Lucy happily thanked him, eliciting a grin just as he disappeared.
''Luce, that was freaking awesome!'' Natsu exclaimed.
''Summoning all your spirits like that was nuts, you're really Manly!'' Elfman concurred.
She laughed weakly ''Aw, come on you guys...''
''They're right. Besides, the king himself said you were a splendid mage. Tell me I'm crazy but I'm pretty sure that's a huge deal.'' Hope smiled.
''Honestly, it hasn't even sunken in yet...'' Her face grew warm at the thought of the king himself complimenting her. She was so focused on their success that she'd blanked everything out. Lucy thought she might have reacted more if she wasn't so tired.
''Be proud, kiddo. You earned it!'' Makarov grinned.
''...That's for sure.'' Loke approached ''Lucy, everyone...I...can't thank you all enough. I never thought anyone would...but breaking expectations is classic Fairy Tail.''
''What, you finally figured it out?'' Gray punched his shoulder lightly ''And here I thought you're smart, you weren't getting rid of us that easily.''
A laugh ''Don't I know it...not that I'm about to complain, mind you.'' His smile grew he took Lucy's hand. He continued to fade, finally allowed to return home. Lucy's own smile widening at the sight of the gold key resting on her palm.
And that's that!
Wow, okay...this turned out to be loads bigger than I was expecting, hope that's okay.
Anyway, the first part of the chapter is me trying to have a bit of fun with some of Fairy Tail's plot. They make this big deal about Natsu finding Igneel for like ever and then...that's it. This is basically how I picture Natsu's stance on the whole deal; finding out about Spada really got him thinking. Oh and to clarify a couple of things, Kyle and the others are actually dead and I'm not using the 400 year plan. Things are pretty different here.
The knights can actually be pretty nice. A bunch of them don't like Fairy Tail with all the trouble they cause but in general they were good to Hope and Endymion overtime. I wanted to see how I could fit Gajeel here just for fun. Yeah, he's had it rough since Phantom's name is pretty much dirt now so he really did need the money. He and Belno seemed to know each other well in canon and I'm playing off that.
I've got a bunch of plans for the story up ahead. The current biggest problem is edolas because I'm trying to decide whether I should have Mystogan stay with Fairy tail or not at the end. I can't help wondering if there are ways to give him a bigger role.
I'm not actually sure when Eve joined Blue Pegasus so I'm taking a bit of liberty with the time. Bob didn't exactly know Loke enough to associate him with Leo, he cares a lot about his members though so he really tried to help with the debacle. No one really helped Loke and it seemed like Hibiki never let go of his anger until the fight with Angel. They don't actually know much about celestial spirits so they have no idea how hard it really was on him. And yes, they saw everything back there. I'll be getting to that eventually.
Welp, thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed it. Till next time!
