Hey Everybody! I've been sitting on this story for awhile, and since I've written Flash, I didn't really think about this a lot. Hopefully, my readers will like this new addition to my stories.
This will be starting from Fairy Tail's S-Class trials and go onwards to the time skip and eventually the GMG. I don't know, I just have an innate craving to write tournament arcs… I hope everyone likes my first chapter, I'm excited to reveal this after so long.
Disclaimer: I don't own anything… except my OC's
Chapter 1: Money
A man runs through thick conjunctions of vine and bush, heaving in short breaths as he slashes branches away with his hand. Blood spills from his abdomen, sporting surges of gashes into his coated, turtle-neck guild jacket. He cringes in agony with every clamoring step as the man frantically escapes the beast after him.
A bloodied hand extended for the deep gash on his side. Crimson liquid continued to flood from his body, dripping onto the ground behind him, even as he applied pressure.
Suddenly, bone-white projectiles rocket from the foliage to his right. Unable to move properly under his current condition, four bullet-sized shells leech into his ribs and shoulder. The force is deceivingly strong as it knocks the man's body sideways into a roll, spurting blood like a geyser.
He tries to hold himself up with a forearm, grunting in impossible anguish, tears brimming in the corners of his inky eyes. The man glances down to his side, taking in four separate holes intensely buried in his crimson stained skins. His dark jacket was torn to shreds exposing a guild mark on his back, that of a 'J' and a 'S' intertwining.
"Shit-shit-shiitt…" He garbled, staring at the damage.
His head shot upwards when branches were pushed to the side near his downed position. Footsteps slowly loudened, crunching over dried leaves and unkempt branches. "Toge Inumaki, 'Jujustu Sorcery' Dark Mage; Bounty 760,000 Jewels… Wanted Dead or Alive." The figure spoke in a deceivingly calm tone, unsheathing a large Zanbatou from its back as it continued to approach the mage.
The white-haired man reached for the front part of his jacket to pull down his collar. Circular runes were coated around the mage's mouth, conducting with wisps of magic as he prepared for the attacker.
"Don't Move!" He yelled at the person beginning to extend their blade upwards.
The figure froze upon the command of his magic— Cursed Speech. This person would be unable to function up to a minute, depending on how much magic power the opposition possessed. But, considering his injuries, Inumaki decided to rise up to his feet shakingly.
Toge gripped his side, taking one last look at the person trying to maim him for his bounty before hobbling away. A man with blonde spiky hair and a dangerous icy blue eye, outfitted in a bandanna that draped over an uncovered orb. One of his arms was naked while the other was covered in a long, black tight-fitted sleeve interconnected with a similarly fitted shirt that left his torso uncovered. His legs were covered by grey pants, held up around the waist by navy blue pant straps. Upon his feet were navy sandals that left his toes exposed with tightly-wrapped bandages around his ankles.
The supposed bounty hunter was still frozen, however, their face was completely unfazed by his attack. His single viewable eye narrowed at the dark mage, thundering with a sapphire glare. Inumaki's eyes widened marginally as he took in the childish features of his face.
This was a kid, no older than fifteen! He was being hunted by a child!
A child who had driven him to this irreversible point. A child that he had yet to even damage or nick. Age didn't matter now… he was an A-Class Mage, it took experience to know when he was beat. His life mattered more than some silly pride, that much he knew.
Inumaki hurled one foot out in front of the other, prancing with grit teeth as he began to run once more. He could feel his Ethernano in his body dissipate with each coming second, no doubt from using his speech one too many times.
*FFFT*
The dark mage felt his entire body stumble as his head launched backwards. A pointed tip of a bloodied sword razed through his midsection. "Wuh—ga…" Toge gazed shockingly at the blade, his vision becoming blurry and unfocused; he lost the motor function in his lower body. His body weight crumbled underneath him, lowering him to his knees.
Toge's head lumbered forward, unable to control the weight on his shoulders. The dark mage's chin tucked inwards as blood pooled between the gaps in his teeth and expelled onto his lips.
"The Lost Magic, Cursed Speech." The blonde teenager walked in front of the man, crouching to the eye level with the kneeling mage. "Let me see it again." The blonde commanded, pushing the man's head up with his outstretched fingers.
Inumaki gurgled, red tinted bubbles foaming from the edges of his mouth. "Sto—p." He unconsciously forced Ethernano through his 'Snake & Tiger' runes.
Perhaps, Toge would be able to run away in some fanatic miracle. He tried to raise himself off the ground, the numerous gauges in his skin, flowing crimson in protest. His legs wouldn't respond. A hand grabbed his white-spiked locks, roughly dragging his head against his will.
This time, his Cursed Speech was overwhelmed by the force of the Bounty Hunter.
"That's enough." The boy spoke emotionlessly, putting his hands on his knees and raising himself up. The Bounty Hunter returned his hand to the dark mage's head, placing his palm above his scalp.
Toge eyelids lowered as he felt his magic begin to seep from his container. "W-Wait… plea—se, I be..g of y-you." He pleaded while his body progressively began to shut down. He raised his arms, gripping onto the blonde's outstretched one.
"It isn't personal." The teenager transferred Inumaki's magic into one of the containers held in his body. The blonde removed his hand from the dark mage's head, letting the man fall forward and onto the brush below.
His blade stood straight from the torn fabric of his back, the man still wheezing in barely noticeable breaths. The Bounty Hunter placed his foot on the white-haired man's back, ripping his blade from the gauge as it squelched and secreted dark pools of blood onto his guild tattoo.
'I don't want to die… I can't, not yet…' He would gather every particle of magic in his body if that's what it took! To have come this far, only to die to a child?!
However, as he searched inwardly for his magical power, he gasped in horror. All magic had completely vanished from his body. Not even a shred of his personal capacity remained.
His Cursed Speech was gone…
How was it possible? This couldn't be happening! 'No… no… Lord Zeref… sav—e m…' His body went limp. Inumaki's face froze in terror as tears embedded into the dirt below.
The bounty hunter placed another hand over the man's body. Knowing that the man was a knock away from death's door, he released a golden glow from his fingertips onto the dark mage's back, directly over his heart. Slowly, but surely, Toge Inumaki reached unconsciousness while his innards were magically restored along with the internal bleeding from a special ability Naruto had gained from another bounty.
Standing to his full height, the teenager gingerly wiped the mage's gore from his weapon, making sure no splotches were evident. It had become a routine measure since the beginning of his contracted days. A swordsman takes care of their blade and all that...
The Bounty Hunter strapped his Zanbatou to the buckled sheath on his back. He bent down and gripped the Jujutsu mage by the scruff of his collar, throwing the incapacitated man over his shoulder. He shuffled to adjust the dead weight before carrying the previous Cursed Speech Mage out of the dense limbs of roots.
He reached into his hip pouch, removing a folded Bounty notice on an aged poster, naming Toge Inumaki. The bandanna blonde nodded his head in affirmation, stacking it into another pocket on his opposite hip. Inside the pouch had numerous posters just like it… Sir Crocodile, Muzan Kibutsuji, Hisoka Morow... were just some of the few.
It was time to return for payment.
Ten Wizard Saints Base of Operations
The Ten Wizard Saints were said to be the absolute strongest mages in all of Fiore, headed by the current Number One, God Serena. Since the Magic Council dispersion after the cataclysmic failure during the Tower of Heaven ploy by their own, Jellal Fernandes, the Ten sought to reinstate their seats with fresh faces.
With Jellal imprisoned, there had been another vacancy in their ranks, one that they patiently scouted for. Such potential members included— Fairy Tail's Gildarts Clive and Laxus Dreyar (although unlikely for both), Quatro Cerberus's Bacchus Groh, along with a few lower S-Class Mages, and Independent Mage, Naruto Uzumaki…
Each person went through a thorough screening that was enlisted by the remaining four Gods of Ishgar: Draculos Hyberion, Wolfheim, and Warrod Sequen. Those who met the requirements were tested in five different attributes— Battle Prowess, Experience, Magic, Potential and Intelligence to measure their capability. The Fairy Tail Ace, Gildarts Clive, who was the ideal target, scored a 48.7/50, only marking short in the Potential category given his age. The other recruits hadn't come nearly as close…
"What the shit." Serena whispered at the report.
…Except for the fourteen-year-old Bounty Hunter, who scored a 44.6/50: 8.7 in Power, 7.6 in Experience, 9.8 in Magic, 10 in Potential, and 9.2 in Intelligence. An astounding score that surpassed 99% of candidates. Even Kagura Mikazuchi at 35.4/50, who was the closest in age at 16, didn't even break the 40's! The contracted mage went as far as to outshoot the next favorite, Laxus Dreyar, who scored a 42.9/50.
"Remarkable… To be considered among the Elite at so young an age. Naruto becomes more devastatingly powerful with each passing day." The Fourth Ranked Wizard Saint, Warrod Sequen, uttered in awe as he looked over the council reports. "Even Makarov's younglings pale in comparison…" He added noticing the vacant seventh seat. With Jose Porla gone after his arrest and humiliating loss to Makarov Dreyar, Jura Neekis would be promoted to take his place.
Warrod's appearance has been considerably affected by his advancing age. He has plant-like physical features: his head resembles a slightly gnarled tree trunk, whilst his hair resembles a leafy treetop. His attire consists of a high-collared kimono tied with a belt, loose trousers, a coat, and a pair of boots.
"His age is concerning, nonetheless. Along with Mikazuchi, I'd feel it'd be best if our recruits were around there twenties." The Second Ranked Wizard Saint, Draculos Hyberion spoke elegantly, his arms encircled behind his back. "He's done well with the onslaught of jobs, but… I don't believe I need to remind you all of the last time we took in someone around his age…" He wafted his right hand towards the Ninth Ranked seat of the former Council Member and Wizard Saint, Jellal.
"Also, his loyalties have yet to be tested."
Hyberion is an older gentleman with clean-cut, dark purple hair, red eyes, a well-groomed mustache, pointy ears, and a tattoo on his forehead that is reminiscent of a cross. He wears a button-up dress shirt, a lightly decorated vest, dark-colored slacks, and a black bow tie. He covers his ensemble with a black cape that sports light-colored crosses towards the midline.
"Giving a child a position of power is foolhardy, like Hyberion said, Jellal was enough." A scoff interrupts the appropriated gentleman. "Gildarts is obviously the best choice. Whether or not he agrees is the problem." The Third Ranked Wizard Saint, Wolfheim, was quick to bite at the results of Naruto Uzumaki's report. "If Uzumaki's loyalties can be tied down, I'd reconsider the arrangement." The man shook his head in denial. To him, Individual Mages were quite impressionable if given certain incentive, so Uzumaki could have some usefulness once he was pushed in a certain direction.
Wolfheim is a very short, older man who sports a dark green long beard. He wears a dark-colored shirt, a light-colored vest with large buttons and stripes towards the bottom of it, dark slacks decorated with diamond shapes, a large blue hat with a brown rim, glasses, and an earring.
Laughter followed suit from the most powerful man in Fiore. "Gildarts' only interests are fine liquor and women with Double D's… I can't blame him. He's denied before, he'll deny again." The Number One Ranked Wizard Saint, God Serena smiled at the old fools around him. "Meanwhile, Naruto Uzumaki has been a good friend of the Council, running jobs and under-the-table bounties since he was twelve. The correlation of age to maturity is irrelevant in this case. I mean, I'm the most mature here, yet half the age of you old coots, HAHAHA!" The Second-Generation Dragon Slayer threw his head back eccentrically, holding his arms outwards.
God Serena is a man with medium-length, wavy and spiked orange hair that juts out at the top in a shape similar to rabbit ears; he has thick eyebrows and bears a scar over the bridge of his nose. He is dressed in a fanciful white robe with blue long sleeves, a blue belt and blue pants. His chest and neck area are covered by a small red cloak with white colored edges, a large collar and three yellow-colored crescent shapes lined up vertically on both sides over his chest. He also wears a simple pair of boots that reach below his knees.
Warrod eyed their leader calmly, his dramatics and need to provoke the others was a familiar part of his routine. "And of his Loyalty?" He asked plainly, getting the man to pause in his isolated chuckles.
"Oh, there's no need to worry about such trivial matters, dear Warrod." God Serena wagged his finger at the tree-like features of the Green Magic user. "Naruto Uzumaki will come to us of his own free-will. The only thing Uzumaki wants is money, it's clear as day, so give him what he wants in return for service." He stated factually, knowing he already figured it out.
Hyberion raised his eyebrow puzzlingly. "That's not ensured loyalty. As soon as another bidder pays more, he'd willingly betray us…" He suggested, explaining his angle. Warrod and Wolfheim nodded their heads in agreement.
"Perhaps getting him involved in the guild system would stem a sense of comradery for the boy?" Wolfheim proposed to the Four Gods of Ishgar. "The Bounty Hunting business is hardly the place for someone of his age anyway." The man shook his head.
Warrod agreed whole-heartedly. The fact that they had already stooped low enough to allow the boy to take gruesome missions such as Bounty Hunting, was despicable. Uzumaki did volunteer his services, in fact, he was the only one… Only a child in need of substantial funds would take such high-risk, underground missions. Makarov would blow a fuse over the whole ordeal if he found out. His friend had a soft spot for children in tough scenarios… as did he.
God Serena shook his head nonchalantly. "He could potentially run S-Class Missions with some of Fiore's Elites like Fairy Tail or Lamia Scale. It'd be a way for him to engage in relationships with the Legal Guild System along with a financial incentive." The orange haired man shrugged his shoulders. "Plus, we're here. If he's as intelligent as reported, then he'd know betraying us would be impossible without severe repercussions." He concluded, seeing no problem with the boy joining as he was now. Grooming some fresh blood for the Council and the Saints would be incredibly beneficial for the years to come.
Just imagine all the women the Bounty hunter would surely bag with the honorable Saint cross displayed on his chest…
"I agree." Hyberion shocked the lower ranked Gods of Ishgar as he hummed along with Serena's plan. It was simple, and with the uncanny potential of Naruto Uzumaki, they couldn't afford to pass up the chance. "Although, my only condition would be for my initial solution. Let us monitor Uzumaki for a few years, at this moment, we can operate without all our seats filled. For now, he's dirtied his hands far too much for my liking, let him adapt to Guild Life and we'll see what will become of him. If he doesn't live up to expectations, we have other options, even if we have to recruit those rambunctious kids of Fairy Tail." The Vampire featured man sighed at the headache that was 'Fairy Tail'. The Guild was Number One without equal, but their worth was equally as damaging with the collateral destruction and numerous expenses they piled upon.
If they could get the new council under Org to produce results, then Fairy Tail's ridiculous stack of complaints would finally be pushed onto someone else.
God Serena grinned, slapping his hands together. "Alright! So were we in agreement then? Warrod, Wolfheim, any objections?" The man offered them to interject.
"No."
"If you are sure, then I'll agree for now." Warrod stated, still not entirely on board. He was regretful for asking a boy so young to do the work that no one would touch. If not for the leaks of Dark Guilds rising in the underground, they'd never have resorted to such a method.
"Good." A Lacrima screen developed in the center of the meeting room. The blond bounty hunter they just spoke of was seen walking towards the outer doors of their Headquarters, a body clearly being held over his shoulder. "And look who it is… our little Naruto is back already." God Serena then glanced at the time shown in the bottom right corner, his eyes widening.
"Less than a day's work for him again." The Number One Ranked Saint shook his head while chuckling. The others looked just as bewildered as their leader.
Wolfheim shook his head with his mouth just barely hung open. Toge Inumaki was a High-Ranked A-Class mage…. "What a frightening child…" He said as the Rune Knights parted from the towering doors, letting the boy walk past, leaving droplets of blood behind in his wake.
"Truly and utterly frightening…"
Fairy Tail Guild
Makarov Dreyar, the 3rd Master of Fairy Tail sat with his hands folded in between the glass handle of his Stein. His eyes were shut in contemplation, mulling over a potential situation that could befall his children before his Guild's S-Class exams.
He was a man of many mistakes. He'd made enough to identify himself as such. As a master, as a friend, as a father, as a Grandfather… there was always somewhere he needed to improve for the betterment of others and himself.
Currently, he was deciding whether to hire another guild to protect his children not attending the S-Class exams on Tenroujima. He believed in their strength, all of them, no matter their ranking or position amongst the tiers of the mage world. The last time he entrusted those of his children to be safe on their own, Phantom Lord had burned their Guild to the ground. And, all because he wasn't there to protect them.
Now, with his core members leaving the Guild for a few days, perhaps even a week, they'd be open for a Dark Guild to attack once more. And with the rising tides of Dark Guilds surfacing, Makarov couldn't possibly sit by and leave it all to chance. His Guild and her members needed to be safe, no matter the cost of their own pride… They'd hopefully understand… which, knowing them, they'd object fully! Fucking kids nowadays…
"Master. Is everything alright?" Mirajane Strauss, glanced worryingly at the elderly man. He was often goofy and light-hearted, which eluded her to the fact something was definitely wrong.
Makarov stroked his mustache, looking off to the side. "Hmm." She watched as he turned around on the bar stool, looking around his massive Guild, narrowing his eyes for the hulking figure of his Ace.
Mira felt her Master exert a bit of his magic, no doubt sensing the man's location. His short stature zeroed on the upstairs, where the S-Class mages were allowed. He gulped down his beer, gaining a bit of pink tint in his cheeks before slamming the glass down. The Third Master hopped from the stool and began to walk regally towards the looping staircase that led to the S-Class area.
She narrowed her eyes at the white-haired man for ignoring her as a tick mark developed on her sickly-sweet face. Mira would let it pass for now, because something was definitely on the Master's mind, and for him to seek out Gildarts, it was beyond her standing.
Makarov approached his tall standing mage lounging back in one of the leather chairs his Grandson sat in much of the time. The Crash Magic user had his feet kicked up, a cold beer in his hand as he took some concerning gulps of the 'sweet nectar'.
The dark orange haired man's head lowered to the Titan Magic user. "Old man, how's it going?" He set his drink down on the table beside him.
Makarov stood with his arms still looped behind his back. "Lend me your ear, Gildarts." He stated simply, his tone short and commanding. Instantly, the Ace sat straighter, kicking the extending leg rest under his lounger.
Gildarts looked around them, making sure none of their guildmates were listening in. "Sure, Master." He answered back, his face retaining his solemnity of a High S-Class Mage.
"Tell me. How did you feel when you heard of Fairy Tail's destruction at the hands of Jose Porla?" Makarov questioned his eldest mage.
The prodigious Fairy Tail Ace's face darkened. "You know how I felt, Master." He replied, eyebrows fringed in a contained rage.
Makarov nodded, already knowing of Gildarts reaction. He shuffled a bit closer to the dark orange haired man. "If I were to say something similar may occur, would it be foolish to take measures against it? To make sure it would never happen again under my watchful eye?" The Wizard Saint queried, turning to the side to watch his members happily chat with each other. He motioned with his hand for Gildarts to follow as he walked towards the banister of the second floor.
Although a bit taken aback by the question, the cloaked man followed suit, leaning his forearms against the railing. Was Fairy Tail to be attacked again? And only a day away from the Tenrou trip…?
"It's never foolish to prepare for the worst, Master. It'd be foolish to do nothing at all, even if something didn't occur." The Ace watched with a small smirk as Natsu chatted excitedly with the large-breasted new girl… Luigi, was it?
Makarov nodded amicably, his gaze still turned towards his guild, a ghost of a smile gracing his features. "Even if the members were upset with those measures limiting their freedom?" He observed Gray stripping to his boxers while sitting down. Somehow, Erza miraculously ignored it while Juvia frothed at the mouth.
Gildarts shook his head, "Their safety is more important…" He sighed, knowing how the younger generation would argue their strength against any hidden force.
"Hmm." Makarov stroked his mustache. "How would you feel about me hiring an S-Class Mage or even a team, to help protect the others when we leave?" He asked genuinely in hopes of finalizing his choice.
"Did someone threaten the Guild?"
Makarov shook his head, "No. I just can't stomach leaving this place unguarded again."
Gildarts glanced sideways at his Master, the man was aging day-by-day, and even if the others couldn't see it, the Crash Magic user felt the stress of Guild Master exponentialize with each unknown foe. The Guild was better than ever thanks to his leadership, but the man could only hold so many burdens before his health deteriorated. One less thing to worry over would do him wonders…
"Do it." Gildarts advised his trusted Master. "Unless the funds from the Strippers I hired for Natsu when he becomes an S-Class overshot the budget, then you should be fine." He slapped his elderly Master on the back. Those strippers were definitely necessary for Natsu to lose some of that hardheadiness, but not as much as the Guild's Protection.
Makarov's mouth shot agape. "You WHAT?!" His face became beet red in anger. "How much did that cost?!" He pointed an accusing finger at his Ace who held his hands up in surrender.
"C'mon Master, I got enough for everyone," Gildarts steered away from the price. "Including you. There is definitely room for a S-Class Mage hire for a week, don't worry."
Makarov's eyes grew miniature sparkles for a second, completely losing the anger in his voice. "Uhum, I suppose that's alright then." He rubbed the back of his head with a blush on face as a small trickle of blood escaped his nose.
Gaining a bit of his seriousness back, Makarov raised his head to meet Gildarts' eyes. "Thank you. I'm glad you've returned, Gildarts. I don't always have the perfect solution to everything, and it helps to have an actual voice of reason around here." He admitted with a small frown. The elderly Dreyar wished the best for his guild members, and he adhered to their requests as he hoped to provide them an adventure and comradery that was instilled in him by the First and Second Master.
"It's no problem. You've done well by everyone who's crossed this guild, that will never change." The dark orange haired man smiled admirably at the Wizard Saint. "Now, I think you should start making some calls. Getting an S-Class by tomorrow is going to be tough." Gildarts informed the Master who nodded in agreement.
"Goddamnit." He retreated to his office, looking to contact some other Guilds as quickly as possible. Hopefully some of his old friends had S-Class or High A-Class mages to spare.
"Gildarts, I'm going to pound your ass!" Natsu jumped from the bottom floor, having spotted the older man. His right arm was engulfed in his Dragonslayer Fire.
'Seriously, Natsu? Pound my ass?' Gildarts sweatdropped, swatting the boy into a wall, creating a decent-sized divet.
"NOOO! Gildarts, you pounded Natsu too hard!" Happy cried, seeing his best friend's eyes swirling unresposively.
'…' Gildarts walked away, chugging his beer while shaking his head disappointedly.
Makarov's Office
For an hour now, Makarov had called all of his old friend's guilds, frantically getting more agitated as he couldn't discover S-Class mages free from jobs.
"Other Masters' mages actually do jobs almost every day?!" He screamed in shock. His mages barely worked four times a month!
He called Ooba Babasaama, hoping to get in touch with Lyon Vastia or Jura Neekis, only to find both out of town for the next couple days. Jura would be getting the promotion formally from the Gods of Ishgar, so it was obvious he wouldn't be available.
Afterwards he called Bob at Blue Pegasus to contract Ichiya and the Trimen. However, Ichiya had discovered a 'handsome parfum'… a week's walk away from Fairy Tail! He didn't need those playboy pussies, they only hit on his beautiful girls anyway!
Then came to Goldmine and his eccentric Quatro Cerberus. Bacchus Groh was a complete nutcase and an even heavier drinker than Cana, but for his options, Bacchus was powerful and somewhat responsible enough to not drink his goddamn booze if he were to stay in-house. But, of course, his Quatro gang was coming off a four-day bender and were 'astronomically horny and hungover'… What the fuck!
Kagura Mikazuchi, a name that came up before in his reports for possible Ten Wizard Saint replacement in future… yes, she would do finely… if only he had the goddamned Master's name! Where the fuck is Mermaid Heel anyway?!
He was coming to his wit's end, at this point he'd have to hire some second-rate mages, and that was hardly reassuring. He'd gone down his contacts, finding the names of his fellow Wizard Saints.
Warrod Sequen, his good friend.
Wolfheim, his somewhat friend.
Draculos Hyberion, his barely friend.
…and God Serena, his 'friend'.
"Warrod it is!" He slammed his pointer finger on the Green Magic user's name, bubbling a call-sign image to the forefront.
It rang for a few seconds and then a few more…
"Hello?" The Fourth Seated Wizard Saint raised the communication Lacrima to his face, which barely covered the man's large head. "That you, Makky?" He asked, raising the recording to his eye, almost as if he couldn't see him on screen.
Makarov sat straighter, wiping the annoyance of his face for the time being. "Hello, Warrod. As you know, my potential list of S-Ranks leave for Tenroujima tomorrow." Warrod nodded for the Master's confirmation. "I'll get straight to the point. I'm in need of an S-Class Mage or a team to guard my Guild while it's vacant. Call me paranoid, but I don't want a repeat of Phantom Lord…" Makarov growled slowly thinking about that traitor, Jose.
"I understand, Makarov. You have actually called at a great time, I'm with the other Saints at the moment." He turned the Lacrima to face Serena, Hyberion, and Wolfheim. They gave resolute nods, although Serena's came out predatory given the hungry smirk on his face.
God Serena wisped away a screen in between them. He hadn't gotten a good view, but it looked like they were watching someone enter Wizard Saint headquarters... Weird Saint business as usual. He sauntered over to Warrod, his arms funneling dramatically like a runway model.
"An S-Class mage you say?" Makarov's eyes narrowed at the teasing tone of the strongest man in Fiore. "Wellll, I have the perfect guy for that. He's quite expensive, but an excellent fit for you." He sang, glancing at the other Saints, suddenly hinting to a certain character Fairy Tail's Master was unaware of.
Hyperion's eyes widened. "Yes, of course. This is the perfect opportunity for this mage to get involved with the Guild System. What say you, Wolfheim?" He asked the Third Ranked Saint with a suggestive tone.
"Bout' as good a time as any."
Makarov frowned at being left in the dark. "What is going on here?" He interrogated his comrades with a curious stare.
God Serena laughed. "One of our Individual S-Class mages has been looking for a new home in the legal guild world, we'd been discussing where he was to go when you called. Is this not a sign?!" His laughs grew into guffaws as he slapped Warrod over the shoulder.
An Individual Mage, recommended by the Ten Wizard Saints? They wanted him to hire a Council mage? That was almost unheard of! "Will he be able to handle a potential attack from a dark guild by his lonesome?" Dreyar questioned sharply.
Warrod smiled with a bit of apprehension. "Yes, he is exceedingly skilled, a mage on the level of your Grandson." The tree-like man offered accurately, with their ranking, he was actually above Laxus, but the point was still evident, nonetheless.
Makarov's eyes widened a fraction. In the same league as Laxus? That was incredible for an individual mage… "Will he be available by tomorrow morning?" The Fairy Tail Master folded his hands in front of his mouth, signifying his interest in such a mage.
Wolfheim interrupted, moving his body into frame. "Of course, we'll have him leave for Magnolia as soon as possible." The Third Ranked Saint said mirthlessly.
The Light Magic user dipped his head thankfully. "Thank you for granting my request on such short notice." Makarov's heart soared in relief.
Warrod spun the Lacrima back to him. His eyes displayed anxiety for the upcoming meeting between their Bounty Hunter and Fairy Tail. "We wish you the best of luck on Tenroujima." The man went to end the call, "Oh, and please say hello to Mavis for me." He sadly.
"Of course." Makarov replied kindly.
Makarov's face faded from the Communication Lacrima. The Four Gods of Ishgar glanced at each other with a plethora of emotion. Whether it was uncertainty or satisfaction, all of them wished for this coming mission to be a success. But, with the clashing of personality that was sure to happen, they couldn't be sure.
God Serena smirked. This was exactly what he wanted, and the best part was that he didn't have to do anything at all! For his future endeavors… Naruto Uzumaki would be extremely useful, of that he had no doubt. And, the sooner he was inducted into the Wizard Saints, the better.
The Second-generation Dragonslayer pulled the video feed backup, just as the blonde had finally reached the Rune Guard Bounty station. He threw the body down onto the medical table in front of him, the dark mage as they could see, was riddled with dried blood and puncture wounds.
"My god." Warrod uttered at the state of the man.
Wolfheim shook his head in mild disturbance. "He remains frightening…" The Ultimate Destruction Magic user frowned at the video.
At the Bounty Office
The coroner looked at the blonde up and down, noticing he was completely unharmed as she prodded at the unconscious man in front of her. It had become somewhat of a routine meeting between the two. With the private office secluded for the purpose of bounties, she often came face to face with the teenage mage.
His breathtaking cerulean orbs gazed at her apologetically. "I'm sorry for the mess, I swear it wasn't my intention." He said with small bow.
She waved her hand away. "Don't be Naruto. You shouldn't be apologetic for doing your job. I know the Saints are grateful for it." The woman turned the body of Toge Inumaki on its side, taking in the site of several large abrasions that showed evidence of magical healing.
The blonde nodded, putting his hands in his pockets. "So you say." He responded lamely, deciding to look down the hallway that led to the Wizard Saints.
"Still." The coroner paused in her inspection. "It's better than outright killing him." Naruto grasped the wanted poster in his pocket.
"You're right." The woman nodded, reaching into one of the rib cavities with surgical tongs. "Bounty Hunting, is gruesome and unforgiving… Yet, here you are, a fourteen year-old accepting the role so that the citizens of Fiore can live in peace." She plucked a couple bone-like bullets from the body, clanking them into an aluminum tray beside her. "If you regret your decision, you'll only fester and dull moving forwards. Do what you think is right, no one else can decide what's justified for you." The coroner raised her grey eyes to meet Naruto's attentive ones.
Naruto Uzumaki was doing the corruptive and disheartening work of grown men. She wasn't blind. The unblemished, lightly-tanned teenager was here for more than the money. Whether it was a noble reason or not, she knew he wouldn't be caught up in the immorality and sickening aftershocks of the underground Council missions. Any teenager would have stopped ages ago, for heaven's sake, other mages twice his age wouldn't have even bothered…
His stormy blue eyes closed as he sauntered away from the table. "I'm going to go cash in." With practiced precision, Naruto sighed lazily.
Ten Wizard Saints
After receiving a check of 760,000 Jewels, Naruto was to report to the Four Gods of Ishgar for a new assignment. The boy was a bit puzzled given that the men usually allowed him to rest, at least a day, in between jobs. Of course, they were paying him handsomely, so he'd naturally obey those who fed him.
As the blonde stepped into the large chamber, frosty blue hues rose from the floor, guiding his footsteps towards the Wizard Saints location. With each step, small magic circles enraptured his sandals. The aftertones of sky blue reflected onto his clothes, shading his entire body in an etherly glow.
The older Saints were easy to pick out amongst the chamber, standing in a uniformed fashion, side-by-side. God Serena's signature smirk all the way to the grandfatherly nod of Warrod Sequen. Their Wizard Saint coats were draped upon their shoulders in feathery white and leathered gold.
They had reached an achievement in power and magic hierarchy that only a few could possibly dream of. These men could cause catastrophe if they were to ever release their full power, especially the Number One Wizard Saint. Naruto strove to be on such a power level, as would any mage training to become S-Class.
God Serena stepped forward, raising his palms to his sides. "Great job as always, Naruto." He stood in front of the crop-topped mage, taking him by the shoulder and leading him to the others. "The deeds you complete for the Magic Council do not go unnoticed, I assure you." The orange haired Dragon Slayer gripped the young man's shoulder before returning to his fellow Saints.
"You've done well by this Kingdom, Uzumaki." Wolfheim bobbed his head in greeting, receiving a slight bow from the child in return.
Draculos Hyberion stepped forward with his arms interoped through his fur coat. "Yes, your role is one of utmost importance…." He straightened to full height. "One that we may see fit to change in the future." The man informed his subordinate elegantly.
The blonde took the information in stride, continuing to stand in front of the Wizard Saints in stoicism. The Zanbatou user nodded carelessly, placing his cloth covered left-arm into his pocket.
"Would you be interested in working with a guild like Fairy Tail?" Warrod asked calmly, deciding to get to the point.
The blonde face contorted in confusion. "…Did I do something wrong?" Working with Fairy Tail was as good as punishment…
Warrod raised his hand in placation, shaking his head at the boy's question. "No, not at all. We just wished for you to 'stretch your wings', per say. This mission would only be the beginning. You'd still be employed by the Council, but instead of running Bounties, we'd have you complete S-Ranks with high ranking mages from guilds like Fairy Tail, Lamia Scale, Blue Pegasus, etc." The elderly man explained their choice for Naruto's legal engagement.
The blonde looked unconvinced as his visible eyebrow raised on his forehead. "Think of this as an opportunity to broaden your horizons. Don't get me wrong, the Magic Council always needs someone like you." The man smiled, flashing the blonde a prideful smirk as he pointed to the Saint cross on his chest. "But, we also want you to experience life outside of Bounty Hunting."
Wolfhiem scoffed at the Number One Ranked Saint. "What the fool meant to say is— we don't need your Bounties for the time being. It's time to rehabilitate and move forwards."
Naruto stood motionless, his eye darting in between the Four Gods of Ishgar. "I understand." His face blank as he stood proud.
Draculos sighed, "Bounties pay well, this is true. But hear us out, I think you'll be interested in seeing what we have to offer." The man summoned a job poster, as he would any routine job for the blonde.
On the Screen Lacrima, a picture of the Fairy Tail Guild was plastered in the middle. The job listing was sanctioned by Makarov Dreyar, the Sixth Seated Wizard Saint, for a week-long Bodyguard/Protection mission for the mages of Fairy Tail.
"With Fairy Tail's S-Class examination beginning tomorrow, Naruto, you will be contracted to ensure the safety of Fairy Tail's mages that are left behind. With the rising tension of Dark Guild's sprouting from the underworld, you must be prepared to face incoming threats at every turn." A handsome Jewel amount popped out the screen in bolded red font. "Payout will be 2.1 Million Jewels upon Makarov's return a week from tomorrow." Hyberion observed the boy's face take in the Jewel amount with a hungry gaze.
'This pay is equal to four or five bounties… and only for a week's worth of simple protection detail.' Naruto mused silently, keeping his eyes peeled on the job poster.
"Would this be something you're interested in?" Hyberion questioned once more, knowing they had struck the boy's fancy.
"Yes." The blonde replied solidly.
"Traveling to Magnolia will take a half-day's train ride. I would advise leaving at once." The middle-aged man placed his hands behind his back, stepping back into line with his comrades.
"You are dismissed." The blonde spun from his position, making way for the chamber door in silence. His Zanbatou shifted on his back as he swayed from side to side in the oceanic hues of Ethernano.
As he passed the hallway where the Magic Council gathered for official meetings and legal hearings, the previous officials' portraits were being removed from the cream-colored wall. Naruto passed by the headshot of Ultear Milkovich, pausing for a half-step, he gazed at her pale eyes. Two of the working men stepped past him, quickly taking hold of the painting and withdrawing it. The blonde righted himself, shaking his head downwardly, returning his hands to his pockets.
Fairy Tail: Next Day
The core members of Fairy Tail had met earlier in the morning to gather together with their partners. For some, it was an uneventful morning to rest before the battle trials in which they'd have to fight one of their own S-Class mages.
Makarov stood near the bar, waiting upon the arrival of the Magic Council's mage. They were set to leave in less than an hour. He drank his morning liquor, humming in satisfaction as the cool liquid sank into his stomach. He was excited for the trials, as he was every year, hoping that those he'd done his best raising up to this point, could prove themselves worthy of the S-Class title.
Natsu, Gray, Cana, Levy, Elfman, Juvia, Freed, Mest… This was one of the most powerful groups of candidates he'd ever proctored, even during Gildarts promotion trial. Mira and Erza were solely promoted on their own, with only two other candidates, so this year would definitely be a Historic one.
If only his elderly brain could recall the foggy memory that was Mest. He couldn't even remember when the boy joined… he was getting too old for this shit…
"Master. Shouldn't we be heading out before the others?" The Heart Kreuz armored, Erza Scarlet, stood with her arms crossed over her chest. Mira and Gildarts stood off to the left, gazing at him with the same questioning glance.
He supposed it was true, the examiners needed to be situated before the trials began. But, he couldn't leave just yet. "In a few minutes, Erza." He side-eyed Gildarts, hopefully suggesting that he was waiting on the hired mage.
The Crash Magic nodded his head in understanding. The burly man moved to respond when they felt a tremendous magic power appear to their senses.
Both men's eyes widened. Makarov's beer shot through his nose at the raw Ethernano that gained closer and closer to the large-standing doors of his guild. He shared a glance with the Crash Magic user, who's visage shifted seriously to the door.
This was the man they were waiting for.
As the Independent Mage reached the outer gates, Erza and Mira's eyes widened. A magic power equal to Gildarts appeared out of thin air, just outside their guild. "Master…" Erza uttered to the elderly man.
Mira reached for the Master in alarm, "Master, what is going on?" To her surprise, the Wizard Saint smiled at her, silently whispering that everything was alright.
The Light Magic user pushed past his children, walking closer to the front door, Gildarts following directly behind. 'To think the Council hid a mage like this…' The core members sat behind in confusion.
"Hey, Gramps! What the hell are you doing?" The Fire Dragonslayer exclaimed with his Exceed, Happy, sitting on his shoulder.
Erza placed her hand on the pink haired mage's back, squeezing her way through the crowd. "Stay put, Natsu." She stood in front of her friends, as did Mira, moving her arm in front of them protectively.
Fairy Tail's guild doors opened steadily, cascading the morning light into the front of the hall. A male figure waited for the doors to open all the way before strutting in slowly. The sun shone behind him, outlining his body in an unrecognizable shadow. Immediately as the male set foot into Fairy Tail, his magical presence dispersed, completely evaporating from the S-Class mages' senses.
"Who the hell is that?" Gray, the Ice Make Mage, frowned, readying his magic after witnessing Gildarts tense out of nowhere.
Soon enough, all of Fairy Tails' members gathered their magic at the sight of their guild's strongest standing in front of them protectively.
The doors closed behind the hired mage, getting the figure to pause in step, staring straight ahead at the dozens of battle ready Fairies.
The Fairy Tail Master went to greet their guest, "Maste…" Mira's protest was snuffed out by the Wizard Saint's slight head shake. Without pause, Makarov continued walking forwards with the Ace of Fairy Tail prowling adjacently to the Titan Magic user.
"Erza… what's happening?" Celestial Spirit Mage, Lucy Heartfilia, questioned Titania nervously. The curvy blonde instinctually clutched her keys with white knuckles.
The Queen of Fairies shook her head, keeping her focus forward. "I don't know… Stay on your guard." She instructed those behind her. That power she felt… it was inhuman. It wasn't a signature she could ignore, reminding her of the Crash Magic Ace's vast Ethernano reserves.
Was it a Dark Mage? His magical presence was potent, but it didn't give a sense of foreboding evil that she'd felt countless times before. Plus, who'd be foolish enough to attack Fairy Tail head-on by themselves, especially with two of its strongest mages in-house?
As the light receded, the council mage became completely viewable. "I apologize for arriving late, Master Makarov." The mage spoke politely.
Standing in front of their Master was a teenager given his looks, bowing slightly with his hands hidden in the pockets of his grey pants. He stood a bit taller than Natsu, around the height of Erza and Gray, with a tight black shirt that cut off at his abdomen, displaying a muscled anterior. His left shirt sleeve extended the length of the arm, while the other sleeve was cut at the shoulder, revealing his entire bare right arm.
His face was lightly tanned and unblemished, with a bandanna covering his forehead and left eye. A coal-colored earring dangled downwards from his right ear in the shape of a diamond. However, the most notable feature of the strange teenager was the unflinchingly bright cerulean orb that peered downwards at their Master.
'…he's incredibly young…' Makarov kept his surprise hidden. The Four Gods of Ishgar had said this boy could match Laxus?! Surely, this was a practical joke… that's what he would've believed if he hadn't sensed the boy's magical capacity. "I understand, my boy. Getting here from Era in a day is a mission on its own." Makarov smiled, bobbing his head in greeting.
Some of the Guild Members backed down at his introduction. It seemed their Master had been expecting someone. For the others, once the word 'Era' was uttered, their guard raised even higher.
Cana's card flipped skillfully across her finger. "Hired mage from the council…? For what?" The Card Magic user glanced at Erza, hoping she'd have some kind of explanation. Perhaps Master hired someone to help with the trials in Laxus and Mystogan's stead.
With Laxus's banishment, and Mystogan's 'Jellal' return to Edolas, they'd only have Erza, Mira, and Gildarts to conduct the battle trials. But, they knew their Master, he'd never involve a council member in Guild business, especially on the sacred ground of Tenroujima.
Gildarts inspected the bounty hunter up and down, "So you're the mage Master hired, eh?" The dark orange haired man towered over the blonde teenager. "Care to elaborate on that stunt you just pulled?" The Ace of Fairy Tail scowled at the blonde.
Carla stood still next to Wendy, sweating vibrantly from her forehead. Her magic sense was rather strong due to her lineage, and when that boy neared the Guild, she nearly suffocated from the density and radiative power. She'd never let someone like that get near Wendy.
"Did none of you feel that?" Erza kept her eyes narrowed at their guest. Her thought process was under the same ridicule as their Ace. What was he trying to accomplish by exerting his Magic like that? And how did no one else besides the S-Classes feel it?
What kind of monster has the council been hiding…? This handsome boy was only a few years younger than her. It wouldn't have been possible for someone of his age to be a Wizard Saint, so perhaps he was an Independent Mage… or maybe an excellent Rune Knight…?
"Feel what, exactly?" Natsu's head titled in puzzlement. The others around him agreed with various nods. He looked like an ordinary kid, maybe a bit mysterious, but ordinary nevertheless.
Mira moved closer to the core members of Fairy Tail. "Let Master handle it." The violet dressed Strauss tried to diffuse their worries. There was no point in getting everyone hyped up before they left for Tenroujima.
Fairy Tail's core members look at one another in continued uncertainty. Mira never interjected on Erza's behalf… this was getting weird.
"Ah, my magic has been a bit… testy lately, I didn't realize what I was doing." The blonde swordsmen wafted his hand in a genializing motion. With the expansion of his Ethernano container after his bounty, it was his body's natural reaction to the sudden influx.
"Right…" Gildarts' skepticism never left his face as he stared at the shorter mage.
Makarov held his hand up. "Enough, Gildarts." The man brought his hand forwards to shake the young mage's hand. "As you know, I'm Makarov Dreyar, Third Master of Fairy Tail. Thank you for coming on such short notice." The elderly master kept his persona strictly professional.
In response, Naruto lowered his hand to meet the short Wizard Saint. "My name is Naruto Uzumaki, thank you for having me." The blonde dipped his head politely, unintentionally displaying his Zanbatou to the guild members. Their eyes widened at the massive sword, a sword that happenend to be taller than some of their shorter mages.
Gajeel snickered at the Zanbatou. "Compensating much? Gihi." The Solid Script user, Levy McGarden slapped him on the shoulder.
Makarov motioned for the boy to enter as he turned his body sideways. "Let's talk specifics." Naruto lazily strode forward, ignoring all the mages that eyed him down as they walked towards the bar. Except for two.
The sapphire eyes teenager glanced at Erza and Mira from his peripheral vision. His eyes trailed downwards with his eyes half-lidded, almost as if he didn't deem them threatening at all.
Both girls frowned, staring back at the boy with venom. 'Such arrogance…' Erza grit in her mind as her fists tightened.
The dark orange hair Ace followed behind the boy, his hands tensed at the side, preparing for the boy to try anything. His scowl darkened at the glower he gave the two female S-Class mages. The core members split down the middle, letting the three pass them by. All three Dragonslayers sniffed the air, an instinctual reaction as the mysterious council mage walked past their group. Their faces contorted quizzically—His stench was strange, as in multiple aromas woven intertwiningly.
Makarov brought the Bounty Hunter to the bar, eyeing Kinana, their newest barmaid, to slide some drinks over his way. "Those four spoke highly of your skills, I'm glad to have a trusted associate overseeing my Guild's safety." The Titan Magic user's eyes closed. "Forgive our unwelcoming greeting, we didn't know what to expect given your sudden appearance. You must understand the tense atmosphere, Fairy Tail has seen some unexpected tragedies somewhat frequently in the past year." He spoke with a hint of remorse. Phantom Lord, The Tower of Heaven, Laxus' Betrayal, Oracion Seis, Edolas… it was strangulating for his members.
Naruto was no stranger to the constant headlines involving Fairy Tail. In fact, there wasn't a single mage within Fiore that didn't hear of the persistent warhorse of a Guild. With all of the ridiculous endeavors and even tougher foes the bunch faced, the Fairies navigated unobstructed through it all. They even took down the mighty Oracion Seis, headed by the dark mage, Brain.
It was actually pretty admirable if nothing else. He didn't know how they did it… besides 'Fairy Tail's Strongest Team', 'The Demon' Mirajane Strauss, and the Ace Gildarts Clive, Fairy Tail would of been laid to waste. And the fact that Gildarts was never involved with their Guild's Civil War nor Oracion Seis… could their power of 'Friendship' truly dissipate S-Ranks like fodder?
"It's no problem. To be honest, I should've thought of a better way to introduce myself." A rather pretty purple haired girl dropped a bubbling-liquid in front of him. He muttered a quick 'thank you', before taking a sip.
Club Soda— for Fairy Tail's rowdiness, he would've thought they served Liquor in the same quantities as water.
Next to him, the Wizard Saint gulped an unhealthy amount of beer in a single gulp. "Your magic reserves are rather impressive…" One of the man's eyes peered at the boy. "When the Gods of Ishgar talked of an S-Mage on par with my grandson, I expected someone much older."
Naruto glanced past the Fairy Tail Master. "I'm not all that impressive." All the Fairies were watching his every move. What a bunch of weirdos.
Makarov chuckled, noticing the blonde's eyes track over his shoulder. "Anyways, I'm not sure if you were briefed on the job description…" The blonde inclined his head. "Oh, you were? Great. Then this should be pretty easy. It's simple, protect Fairy Tail, my family, that's your only job." The Wizard Saint commanded.
Pulling a small communication Lacrima from his pocket, the elder man dropped it onto the bar in front of Naruto. "This Communication Lacrima will help you immediately contact me if anything drastic were to occur. That being said, I'd like you to be here for the whole week. We have some spare bedrooms in the basement for you to squat during the job." He jabbed his thumb over his back at a set of wooden doors bolted with metal-ring knobs.
Naruto seized the Lacrima, examining the emerald glass magic item before pocketing it. "One of my senior members will be taking over until my return… MACAO!" Makarov suddenly yelled at a purple haired mage with short stubble facial hair, sitting at one of tables parallel to the bar.
The Fairy choked on his drink as his name was bellowed by his master. His beer completely spilled down the front side of his white jacket, getting a laugh from the smoking Wakaba. Macao stood to his feet, smacking his chuckling friend in the head on his way to the bar.
"Bastard!"
Fairy Tail's Master held out his hand towards the thirty-six year old man. "This is Macao Conbolt, he'll be acting as Guild Master for the week." The Purple Flare Magic user's eyes shot to his forehead, mouth gaping in surprise.
"What?!" Macao responded indignantly.
Makarov sighed. Macao was never the one to hold such responsibility in the past, he supposed. "Macao, this is Naruto Uzumaki." The blonde nodded his head in greeting. "He'll be protecting Fairy Tail from potential threats during the S-Rank trials. It's only for the week, so treat him well." The Wizard Saint spoke to the dark blue haired Fairy, generalizing the bounty hunter's job.
"But, we have nearly 100 mages here…" Macao stopped his protest at the glare his Master sent his way. "Right, sounds good, Master." The elderly man nodded his head at the finalization.
Throughout the ordeal, Mest Gryder, the undercover Council member, was trying to recall where he heard the name, Naruto Uzumaki before. Makarov had said that this teenager was one of its mages, yet he couldn't remember the last time the Council actually sent out their own jobs. Perhaps, this blonde kid was a part of Fairy Tail's undoing, but being a Rune Knight Officer, wouldn't the higher-ups inform him about it?
He'd have to contact Lahar about this, but where would he find the time to do so…?
"We'll be leaving here shortly, not much after I announce the reason for you being here..." Makarov's demeanor suddenly shifted, his magic dwelling within his container awoke to its max potency. His face darkened, staring at the teenager in front of him. "And one last thing…"
Naruto's brow was dampened with a bit of sweat. "I will not tolerate failure. If so much as one of my children loses a hair on their head, there won't be a place in this mighty kingdom that I won't find you." Fairy Tail's Master glowered at the blonde, his facial expression hidden from the Guild members sitting behind them.
To be honest, Naruto had no idea that the elderly man could render such a venomous face. 'So, this is one of the Ten Great Wizards…' Even at three-foot nothing, the man was utterly terrifying.
"The same goes for me." Gildarts arms were hidden by his cloak, yet Naruto could still feel the overwhelming power threatening to spill. "You do well to remember that." He scowled.
Naruto kept his pride as he held his chin evenly without reaction. "I have never failed a mission before… that won't change." The sapphire eyed Uzumaki met their faces with the same air of incredulity.
The Wizard Saint bobbed his head approvingly. Finally, the Master stood on his stool, taking a small leap to the bar and rotated his body to face the crowd of his members standing and sitting at the tables nearby. "LISTEN UP!" He roared at the Fairies.
"This is Naruto Uzumaki, if you didn't hear." He brought one of his hands from behind his back, pointing at the blonde as he did so. "He was generous enough to accept a job from me last night and travel all the way from the Council overnight. For those of you who are not participating in this year's S-Class Trials, Naruto is here to provide an extra means of security and protection. He is an S-Class mage, so you have nothing to worry about." Some of the core members' faces expanded in astonishment. This kid had made S-Class around the same age as Erza and Mira?! "Macao will be the stand-in Master, so go to him with all your problems." He laughed, knowing Macao probably was green in the face about needing to handle the Guild's responsibilities.
"WHAT?!"
And… there was the reaction he was expecting.
Max, the Sandstorm user, stepped forward. "Master, don't worry about us… even if he's S-Class, we can handle some shitty dark mages." The talkative Beige-haired teenager placated, a mass of the other Fairies showing their agreement without raised fists.
The short man shook his head. "And what about Macao being Master? He's the laziest shit I know!" Wakaba bellowed from one of the benches.
Macao wheeled his head around at the light brown pompadour-cut mage, glaring heatedly.
"I'm sure everything will be fine." Makarov continued to address the guild members in front of him. "But, just as an extra precaution, Naruto is here to help. It's only for a week, you fools!" He yelled in annoyance, pointing an outstretched finger at those looking to protest.
Fairy Tail's S-Rank examinees and their partners looked on quietly, not knowing whether to interfere or not. The Master's decision didn't really have any influence on them since they wouldn't be in the Guild, but they couldn't help but feel a little bad. Makarov had never hired a council mage before, not even during their most vigorous battles, so why now? Did he have to scrape the bottom of the barrel to find a suitable mage?
To the others here, it probably felt like their strength was being belittled. And if there was one thing about all Fairy Tail mages, is that they held tons of pride in their magic strength and each other.
Plus, this Naruto Uzumaki, if he was S-Class, then they should have heard of him before. In the Sorcerer's Magazine, working with other Guild's, or even just plain rumors. You'd think a kid barely into his teenage years joining the elite of the mage world— S-Class— would have had a newsletter about him somewhere, right?
"You're right, Master. We understand." Macao bobbed his head, likely coming to a consensus for the reasoning behind it.
"Good." The Wizard Saint said, eyeing the room to see if anyone else still disagreed. For now, they seemed alright with following their Master's orders.
One by one, each of the core members left. They said their goodbyes to their guildmates, as they wished them luck in return.
Erza, before she left, came up to the bar where the blonde was sitting. He was faced away from the crowd gathered at the Guild's door, sending them off with their best wishes. Kinana, seeing the Heart Kreuz armored woman approaching, left to another side of the bar quickly.
Fairy Tail's Strongest Woman took in the sight of the blonde's excellently crafted blade. Its hilt stood on the ground next to his stool, extending upwards next to his body and leant neatly against the wooden batten. Although it was barely recognizable, the Requip user detected a hefty energy dormant within.
"That's quite the sword, Council mage." She spoke while moving to the side of his Zanbatou. "A bit large and bulky, but impressive." Her arms crossed in front of her, face restrained in stoicism.
"Thanks." Naruto replied, continuing to sip on his Club Soda, side-eyeing the beautiful woman to his left. "Though, compared to the collection of the 'Requip Knight: Erza Scarlet', this is nothing." The blonde said, shrugging off the compliment.
"It's rather monumental for someone of your age to make S-Rank. You mut be brand new to the rank, because I've never heard of you before." Erza's face narrowed in observation. "And, I know most, if not all, S-Ranked mages in Fiore."
The blonde huffed, turning towards the voluptuous redhead with an unimpressed gaze. "I don't stand out very much. I must have been doing a good job of that if the 'Queen of Fairies' had no clue who I was." He chuckled. Unfortunately, it didn't seem like Erza Scarlet found it humorous.
Not one bit.
Her brows furrowed in agitation at seeing the younger kid passively antagonize her. "There's no flying 'under the radar' in this Magic World, unless someone is willingly withholding you from the public…" Her face leaned in closer to his own. Erza's brown orbs stared unflinchingly at the teenager. "What makes you so important?"
Across the Guild, Makarov stood waiting for Erza to follow. He caught the red haired girl talking with the blonde, which seemed like a one-sided conversation for the most part. He laughed to himself. Erza was known to get short-circuited with people who didn't answer her questions to the girl's satisfaction. If he could read the room right, the Requip user was about to start a scuffle. Any other time, he would've let it go, but with then already being behind schedule, right now wasn't the best time to do so.
"You're overthinking it…." Naruto leaned away from the girl's intense features.
"Am I?" She pressed even closer.
Naruto's body slouched. 'Women...' He turned away from the beauty, breaking eye contact between them. Perhaps, he could use that strategy to stop this her interrogation.
"95D." Naruto said calmly, not even bothering to look in her direction.
Erza's face contorted confusingly. "…What?" She spoke in puzzlement.
The sapphire eyed teenager glanced at her. Taking a significant pause in the conversation to study her body. "Was I wrong? No, I'm sure... Say, Erza Scarlet, does 95D mean anything to you?" The Queen of Fairies, now completely confused, took a step away from the blonde.
"95D? No, I can't… say… I…" Abruptly, Erza's mind caught up. Her face remained motionless, taking what he said into account—95D…
Naruto took pleasure in seeing the Strongest Woman's face light up in recognition. He smirked while sipping the last of the Club Soda.
"Oh, you know my bust size…" The blonde's eyes widened fractionally, choking on the soda. It was like she didn't care at all that he could tell her measurements! "Impressive… if I didn't know any better, I'd say you were trying to steer away our discussion." She glowered, completely unhampered by the kid's knowledge of her breasts' size.
Erza would be lying if she wasn't a bit perturbed by the somehow perverse knowledge of her bust. But, unlike the other women in the guild, such things like that were hardly a bother for others to know.
"What is your purpose here?"
Putting his glass down gently on the bar, Naruto turned his head to meet Erza's attentive gaze. "To get paid." He responded bluntly. "Why? Do you think I have some nefarious plan?"
The redhead scoffed. "A Council mage without an ulterior motive? Those actually exist?" Her arms twitched at her side, recalling Siegrain—Jellal, and his lackey Ultear.
"Uh, I'm an Independent mage… I just do contract work, I'm not in the Rune Knights or anything." Naruto rubbed the back of his head.
The scarlet haired Knight narrowed her eyes even further. A mage contracted by the Council, yet has no relation with the Rune Knights and also S-Ranked? The only sort of people who fit that bill were the Wizard Saints…
"So you don't have a motive besides money?" The blonde shook his head slowly. "How much were you paid then?" She commanded an answer from the boy.
"2.1 Million." He responded simply.
Erza's eyebrows shot upwards, coughing into her palm and nodding in affirmation. "I see." The woman straightened herself out. "Perhaps I was wrong, a sum like that is very enticing."
A poised shuffling of footsteps made their way towards the pair. Naruto didn't even glance at the figure, knowing who it was given their frame. "Erza, we're leaving, you can talk with our new friend when we get back." The sweet chime of Mirajane Strauss alerted her fellow S-Rank of their departure.
Fairy Tail's Strongest woman inclined her head, acknowledging the barmaid. "Right. I'm sorry for keeping Master waiting." She tilted her head towards the violet dressed model. "I just couldn't leave without knowing everyone would be safe under this boy's protection."
Without reacting to the obvious provocation, Naruto just scoffed and shook his head. "I understand. I feel the same way…" The blonde could practically feel the hardened stare from Fairy Tail's cover girl. "But, Master seems okay with it. You can only do so much when he's made up his mind." Mira shrugged, moving her eyes to the reluctant redhead.
"I can't say I share the same trust." Erza began to walk away. "But, Master has always been great at judging someone's character, so I'll believe in him."
The blonde rotated his head slightly to see the girls off. It didn't matter to him that the fellow S-Ranks sized him up or anything. If anything the blonde understood their apprehension. They were essentially leaving the safety of their comrades in his hands, a complete stranger. With all the bullshit Fairy Tail has involved themselves in lately, it was no wonder that they thought he was there for some crude purpose.
"However…" Erza faced the blonde. "If anything happens to our friends, no Council scum will be able to save you from me. That's a promise, boy." She threatened with a stern scowl on her face.
The blonde nodded, sweatdropping a bit. Seems the Fairy Tail higher-ups shared the same protectiveness of their guildmates as Makarov did. Without another word, the redheaded beauty swung her body for the frontside of the Guild, slapping him upside the face with her scarelt locks.
A little pink tinted his cheeks at the motion. He didn't mind at all.
"Good luck, Naruto Uzumaki." The strongest Strauss sibling kept her distance, smiling in a completely unconvincing kindness. Then too, Mira walked just slightly behind the Requip mage with a sway in her step.
Naruto tried his best to ignore the retreating women, already getting minor glimpses of their behinds. He raised his hand, waving at the purple haired barmaid. She startled unconvincingly, trying to seem like she hadn't been listening. The bounty hunter probably wouldn't have noticed if not for the fact that she'd been washing the same glass for several minutes.
"What can I get you?" She asked politely.
The blonde pointed to the glass in front of him. "You think I could get a beer or something?"
Kinana's eyes narrowed, inspecting the boy before her. Obviously not of drinking age… "Well, unfortunately you can't. Sorry." She apologized, giving the young boy a weird look. "I don't think you're old enough."
Naruto pulled out a stack of cheques, placing it on the table. "That's fine… I'll just get another Club Soda then." The boy replied lazily, not even bothering to argue.
"Sure." She said happily, grabbing his glass and retreating behind the bar.
Fairy Tail's S-Rank examinees stood behind their Master at the door as he raised his right hand into the air, forming an 'L'. "FAIRY TAIL FOREVER!" He roared into the air, getting the core members to follow along. Soon enough, the entire guild bellowed in response, raising their own hands in the familiar shape.
The blonde cringed at the volume, lowering his head into his hands. Fairy Tail was loud as hell. The Saints wanted him to get used to this? The women were great... hehe... but the rowdiness? Absolutely fucking not…
Tenroujima: Three Days Later
Chaos was brimming uncontrollably on Fairy Tail's sacred land… the Magic Council and the Dark Guild— Grimoire Heart, attacked the S-Class occupants of the island. The Council sought to uncover a hidden truth to bury Fairy Tail's antics through the judicial trial under new Council Leader, Org. Grimoire Heart strove to revive the Black Wizard, Zeref, to create a new world in which their Master, Hades—formerly Fairy Tail's second Master, Precht—would utilize the ultimate power, the One Magic.
Ultear Milkovich walked silently next to her mother's apprentice, Gray Fullbuster. With her collection of Zeref, she convinced the gullible Ice Make mage to follow alongside her, talking of how 'she was changed' and saw the errors in her ways. It was laughable, but knowing the usually shirtless man, he probably wasn't entirely believing of her story. It was of no consequence, even if he were to snuff out her plan, Gray had absolutely no chance of defeating her.
"I'm sorry you ended up this way, Ultear." The black haired Fairy paused in step, glancing at the woman beside him. Her eyebrow raised in confusion. "To think you'd disgrace the sacrifices of Ur…"
Gray's signature Ice Make: Lance, shot from his palm, burrowing at top speed for the leader of the Seven Kin of Purgatory.
Without being remotely surprised, Ultear bounded out of the way, setting the immortal mage alongside a gathering of trees. "…don't pity me, Gray." She snarled, placing her emerald Time Orb in her outstretched palm. "Ur is merely a relic of the past… she means nothing to me anymore."
Gray prepared himself for an attack, readying his body by pulling his left hand back onto his right palm. Magical wisps of ice circumvented his calloused hands, highlighting his pale features. "How many others of you are there?" He questioned angrily, clenching his jaw tightly.
"Enough." She smiled simply, laughing at the rage brewing in his eyes. "Does it matter? Your Guild is weak without your Master and Gildarts at the helm. One's already fallen, it won't be long before the other joins them in the afterlife."
The Ice Make mage eyes widened. Gildarts or Master had lost?! "You think I'm stupid enough to believe that? Your band of rejects could never begin to hope to do that!" He responded with confidence, knowing the strength his Guild held.
"Are you sure about that?"
Ultear held an image in her palm, displaying it broadly on a communication Lacrima for the black-haired Fairy to see. It was their Guild, on live feed, showing his comrades laughing and enjoying each other's presence.
"What does showing me our Guild have to do with the Old Man and Gildarts?!" Gray raised his voice, getting enraged by the superior look plastered on the dark mages' face.
Ultear retracted the image, her serene smile never losing it's mirth. "Neither may not have fallen yet, that is true." She showed another display of Makarov bed-ridden at their camp, getting nursed to health by Lisanna. "But, you're Master was still soundl beaten by Master Hades, and he sits hopelessly off to the side as his 'children' fight his battle for him… poor thing, he must feel horrible knowing he couldn't possibly raise a finger to help."
Master Makarov was defeated…? It couldn't be, not with the Old Man's knowledge of Fairy Law, no one was his equal at his strongest.
"And you asked why I showed your Guild to you? It's simple really…" Ultear laughed heartedly. "Makarov can handle the burden of losing his battles. But, do you think he'd be able to stomach the inability to prevent the deaths of countless mages he'd left behind, thinking they were out of the line of fire?" No. Gray's eyes largened in horrific understanding.
"No." The Ice Make mage shook his head. "They have nothing to do with this!" He threw his hand forward, Ice Shards blasting from his palm.
Ultear glanced at the pitiful attack, using her Lost Magic to reduce its Icy form into thin blotches of liquid. "All I have to do is give the order… and your blissfully unaware friends will leave this world ungracefully." She took great pleasure in seeing terror reign on the face of her mother's apprentice.
"I WON'T LET YOU!" Gray rocketed forwards at breakneck speeds.
Ultear chuckled, "Corazon, you may proceed." She used the Lacrima in her hands to contact the underling of Grimoire Heart.
"RAAHHH!" The Ice Make mage riveted a mass amount of raw magical power at her. Ice dangerously showered in heaps, seeking to impale the woman who sought the end of the Famous Guild.
However, much to Ultear's confusion, she got no response. But, without much time to dwell on it, she engaged Gray in combat, reducing the storm of magic into a harmless form.
"Corazon, report!" She yelled in the Communication Lacrima. Without another swipe of her Time Orb, Gray's icicle barrage carried no effect on her, enraging the Fairy Tail mage even further.
"Corazon!" She screamed angrily, blasting Gray away from her. "PROCEED WITH THE PLAN!" Her face blistered red in irredeemable venom.
*BZZT*
Much to the former Council member's surprise, the Lacrima call was finally answered. "Corazon? Is it done?" Her tone lowered as a smirk rose to her face.
However, the voice that spoke back, was not that of her Grimoire grunt. "What a pathetic group of rats." A voice echoed. Ultear's heart sank, her skin bolstering in goosebumps as the faint sounds of groans grew louder. "Which one is Corazon?" The slightly raspy tone mumbled.
Ultear tried to intercept the video feed only to find it had been disabled magically somehow. How could that be possible?! This Communication Lacrima was specifically designed for her magic signature!
"Who is this?" She seethed through her teeth.
*THUD*
The woman heard some carnage on the other end. "Wha- no—GAH!" A distinctly familiar voice rendered through. It was unmistakable. "M-my la—dy… ple—ase hel-help us…" Corazon's deep guttural growl diminished to a cowardly display of weakness.
"Are you going to save them, my Lady?" The speaker mocked her.
Ultear kept prodding the video feed to no avail. "They've fulfilled their use." She stated without remorse.
"Unfortunate… You hear that, Corazon?"
"Lady Ultear… no, w-we did every—t-hing you as…ked." The burly Corazon fearfully spouted. "H-how could we kn-own Fairy...Tail had so-meone t-this powerful?"
The curvy dark mage eyes narrowed. 'They were ready for the attack? Fairy Tail shouldn't have been able to ward off the attack…They have no one of noteworthy strength capable of doing so.' Her magic was finally destroyed by the shirtless mage across from her.
"I see." She spoke gently, watching Gray rustle from the foliage. "Who are you?"
The Fairy Tail mage smirked confidently. 'Seems the hired mage was an excellent choice.' Ultear's backhanded move was ineffective, thankfully. The black haired Fairy was more appreciative of his Master's foresight than ever.
"An old friend." The man replied seriously. "It looks like you've lost your way, Ultear."
So this person knew her as well? He must have interrogated one of the fodder… "If you're an 'Old Friend' as you say, then you'd know that I'd do whatever to obtain what I want." Ultear dismissed the comments without a care.
"Is that so?." Fairy Tail's protector said unconvinced. "Gray Fullbuster. What's going on?"
"Tenroujima was attacked by Grimoire Heart. Don't worry, you just do your job and we'll do ours. We've got this handled." Gray's Ice Make blistered in his palm.
"Fine by me."
Ultear shattered the Emerald Lacrima, finally having enough of the one-sided bout. It was time to end this. "You will not stand in my way, Gray. You have no idea what I'm doing this all for!" She roared, launching a vicious shrapnel of ice shaped like a rose.
"I don't give a shit! I still owe you a beating, bitch!" A massive wall of ice was summoned from his magic to halt the devastating bombardment.
At the Fairy Tail Guild
Naruto sat off to the side of the large-standing guild, observing the Rune Knights bound the Grimoire Heart fodder. Most, if not all, had lost their will to fight after hearing their beloved leader summarize their expendability.
To be honest, he didn't really expect anyone to attack Fairy Tail over a week's stretch. But, imagine his surprise when upwards of fifty decent sized magical signatures surrounded the Guild in broad daylight. It was like they weren't even trying to hide themselves, almost as if they were assured a swift and easy victory.
And, it ended well for them… arrested, beaten to a pulp, and utterly disgraced for years to come.
They gave him the classic, 'You really think only you can beat all of us?' No need for a reply after that, just a physical showing of his superiority to a bunch of background characters. He'd hunted far stronger mages, these degenerates were hardly a challenge.
He couldn't help but feel weary though. Something was definitely out of place. Grimoire Heart had attacked Tenroujima, and Gray Fullbuster had told them that they'd be okay. So much for not being foreboding…
Plus, Ultear was there, Ultear was the one who ordered these mages to wipe out Fairy Tail. The beautiful former Council member, a former 'subordinate' of Jellal Fernandes… the woman had changed almost too much for him to recognize her anymore.
He'd have to contact the Gods of Ishgar, because whether he chose to believe the Ice Mage or not, Fairy Tail was battling one of the strongest dark guilds without Laxus Dreyar or Mystogan. And, from the intel the council received, seven of Grimoire Heart's mages were S-Class, not even including their Master, Hades.
Fairy Tail was in deep shit, but just how deep, the blonde couldn't say…
End
Damn, that was a bit longer than I expected. I hope everyone enjoyed the beginning of this new fic. Thanks to AizentheGoat's discord server for helping me get this off the ground all those months ago.
Next chapter I hope to hop into the Aftermath of Tenroujima and the Time Skip.
I wonder if anyone can guess Naruto's 'magic'?
I have yet to decide on a pairing. So leave your pairing requests in the chat so I can make a poll on my page. Remember, age won't have a part here because Naruto will be 21 when Fairy Tail returns, so anything goes.
Peace