The Will of the Guild
(Soul Calibur 4 OST - Reign of Doom)
Gajeel immediately shook his head as prepared for the fight. He couldn't allow himself to break and cower in fear because of some fairy lover. It didn't matter if he was some kind of demon spawn or ghost like entity. If he beat Jose, then he must be tough but that doesn't mean Jose went down without fighting. Maybe the man managed to weaken him. Yeah that's it!
"I'm not scared of you! Iron Dragon's Sword!" Gajeel called out as his arm turned into a buzzsaw like blade.
Nightmare stood his ground and blocked the attack as Gajeel slammed it down. Nightmare used little effort to push it away as he sweeped Gajeel's leck slamming his sword down almost hitting the iron dragon slayer. Gajeel rolled away as he wiped away the sweat off of his head.
'Calm down Gajeel. He's just one man. Sure he may have demonic powers, but he's probably using some kind enhancement like a lacrima.' Gajeel thought as he managed to slam his iron hammer over Nightmare's head making him stumble back. Gajeel briefly glanced Jose's body once more before avoid a wave of black flames, 'Ok, Master Jose may be down for the count, but there's no doubt he was strong. The old man is a wizard saint so I doubt this bastard had an easy time beating him.' he thought as he noticed how slow Nightmare was compared to Siegfried.
Gajeel applied magical energy to his feet as he dashed at Nightmare with his sword extended towards Nightmare. All the while he kept slashing at him with heavy strikes hoping to make him lose his balance or find some kind of opening. However Nightmare was too much of a wild card and would change up his stances and strategies with every second he had to breath.
Little did he know, that his real fear was supposed to be the sword rather than the demonic looking knight. Gajeel instinctively had to raise his iron sword over his head as Soul Edge tried to slam down on him. All the while the eye was wide open and leaking red energy that was too hot to handle.
"With this you die!" Nightmare said as he continued to apply more pressure as dark energy started to spread further.
"Over my dead body monster!" Gajeel said as he lifted his leg. "Iron Dragon's Lance!" he said slamming his iron foot into Nightmare's abdomen and sending him crashing into a wall.
"A pathetic trick." Nightmare said as he got up and quickly recovered.
Lucy was struggling to stand as she tried to find safety amongst the battle. All the while, the celestial mage couldn't help but to look back at the monster. It may sound harsh, but in Lucy's position, she was seriously terrified despite the tough girl act she gave to Gajeel. Jose was the guild master after all, meaning he's probably stronger or at least on par with Gajeel. So there was no doubt Nightmare wouldn't give Gajeel an easy time.
'I think I could make my way out of here. No doubt Natsu or someone from the guild is on there way here.' Lucy thought as she tried to make her way out of the room only to see Gajeel crash through a wall. 'I should avoid grabbing their attention.' she thought as she saw Gajeel shoving a lot of metal down his throat.
"Iron Dragon's Hard Fist!" Gajeel called out as he crushed his fist against Nightmare's helmet. Not letting his opponent recover, Gajeel continued his assault as his iron scales formed again, "Iron Dragon's Mallet!" he said as he continuously slammed his hammer shaped fists over Nightmare.
Nightmare could soon be heard huffing before used his enlarged hand to grab Gajeel by the face. Gajeel tried to pry off the hand only to feel the arm slowly crushing him. He turned his head to see Soul Edge trying to decapitate him.
"Iron Dragon's Roar!" Gajeel yelled out as he managed to crush the large hand.
"You are only delaying the inevitable." Nightmare said as he slammed down his sword over Gajeel who blocked it with both of his wrists.
Gajeel attempted to free one arm quickly in hopes of using his sword only to be punched in the gut before being tripped. After sliding away from another slash aimed for him, Gajeel transformed his leg into a spiked leg and kicked Nightmare in the gut. Instead of being sent into the wall, Nightmare held onto the foot and started to maintain a good grip before tossing Gajeel towards some machines that started to spark.
Despite feeling signs of what could be a concussion, the iron dragon slayer kept his senses up and moved out of the way as Soul Edge slammed into the machinery causing an explosion. Gajeel took a couple of deep breaths as he saw the explosion hoping that at least damaged Nightmare and that damn sword. Instead his eyes widened as Nightmare dragged his sword against the floor as he walked out of the flames barely scathed.
"The end is near. With this you die!" Nightmare said as he dashed at Gajeel ready to slash at him.
Gajeel grunted as he prepared another sword and attempted to block slash back at him. The two fighters clashed and landed on opposite directions. Gajeel smirked as he turned to see Nightmare collapse. Sadly, he couldn't celebrate as he exploded into a puff of smoke. Meanwhile he looked down to see a large gash in his armored scales.
"Was that some kind of trick?" Gajeel asked with a few grunts in between.
"Soul Edge... be unleashed!" Gajeel turned to see Gajeel beside him as Soul Edge was slammed down on him. Gajeel soon found himself surrounded by a powerful dark aura before Nightmare appeared riding a black horse, "Taste..." he said as his sword connected with Gajeel's body. "...the sword of despair." he said as slashed at Gajeel leaving a larger gaping slash in his scales before they shattered.
Gajeel slowly tried to crawl up only to be held up by his neck. Gajeel just stared at Nightmare's bright red eyes as the dark menacing aura could be seen surrounding him. All the while he tried to slash at him with an iron sword only for the arm to be crushed.
'I guess I have to use that one trick.' Gajeel thought as he pushed himself away with an iron spiked club. Gajeel took one deep breath as he prepared every little bit of energy for this one attack hoping to at least cripple Nightmare before running away long enough to get some more iron to eat. With that he narrowed his eyes as Nightmare who jumped towards him with Soul Edge over his head, "Dragon Slayer's Secret Art! Karma Demon: Iron God Sword!"
Nightmare saw the sword raised high above him as it was aiming down towards him, "Susanoo!" he called out as the purple giant appeared and tried to block the sword.
(End of Song)
With Lucy
'Just a... little... further.' Lucy thought as she struggled to make her way out the guild. All the while she felt the whole guild hall shake from Nightmare and Gajeel's heavy fighting. Which only dazed the poor blonde girl, 'I guess... this is what... the elite of the guild are like. I wonder... if Erza and Natsu... ever fought like this.' she wondered as her legs gave out.
"Lucy!" Lucy turned to see several of her friends making their way towards her.
"Guys?" Lucy asked.
Erza was the first to approach her, "Who did this to you?" she asked worriedly.
"The other dragon slayer." Lucy answered making them scowl.
"I'm going to kick that jerk's face in when I see him! No one hurts a friend of mine and gets away with it!" Natsu yelled as fire came out of mouth.
"Aye sir!" Happy yelled in agreement.
"Guys I wouldn't go there. Something was in there with Gajeel and it defeated Jose and killed a bunch Phantom wizards." Lucy said with fear in her voice.
Before anyone could respond, they felt the whole guild hall shake as debris started to fall all around them.
"Lucy whatever that thing is. It sounds pretty tough." Gray commented.
"Then it only means I need to fight it myself!" Natsu said with a grin as he ran off at a high speed to look for the fight.
"Natsu get back here!" Erza ordered.
"Yeah you idiot!" Gray yelled in agreement as they went after him.
"Elfman, Mira, take Lucy and get out here before the whole guild collapses!" Erza ordered.
"Right!" they both said.
"Come on Lu-chan." Mirajane said as she offered her shoulder to Lucy who grabbed on.
"I wonder what that something is. It must be a real man to beat someone tough like Master Jose." Elfman said while Mira kept a nervous face.
"Something wrong Mira?" Lucy asked.
"Nothing, I'm just thinking about everyone defending the guild is all." Mirajane lied but was able to keep it convincing.
Back the fight
Gajeel panted as he fell on his side, "Stupid knight." he said before grinning. "At least I beat him. There's no way he should have come out alive from that." he said sounding very proud of himself.
However his parade was ended by the sounds of gravel moving. Turning his head, he saw that bastard sword sticking out from the ground with an arm attached. The iron dragon slayer being too exhausted from that last attack, found himself unable to move very quickly as the rest of the body resurfaced with signs of heavy damage and scrapes.
"This Nightmare will never end." Nightmare said as he slowly made his way to Gajeel who was struggling to drag himself away. Until the sound of crashing of destruction could be heard in the distance, "What the?" he asked as he turned to see an opening in the hall to see some large blob smashing the guild hall.
In the distance, Macao can be seen restraining Cana, "No let me go! We have to stop it!" she yelled.
Nightmare turned to see the blob finally destroying the Fairy Tail guild hall. Normally Nightmare would not care for such petty things, but he hasn't been in 100% control in a long time. With this, he reached for his shoulder as he started feeling flesh instead of the cold hard armor placed on his back. That's when the imagees entered his mind.
A strange series of images invaded his mind. For some reason the guild didn't collapse, but it was completely annihilated. Then an image of Levy appeared of her being pierced by steel rods followed by everyone else in the guild being crushed by the debris. Inside, Siegfried started to pant as he started to feel that same dread he felt when Erza attacked him although years ago.
"That's it, let your hatred overcome you." Nightmare started to be surrounded by a dark red aura. "In this world, compassion is unnecessary. Bury your heart in darkness." suddenly his entire body was turning red as fire came out of his back and started taking the shape of wings.
"GRRR! RAHHH!" the beast started to snarl as it summoned Soul Calibur to his side.
"Combine the two. Complete the sword."
The beast nodded as the two slowly became closer to one another. The beast continued to growl as the energies of the two swords started to make contact with one another. As the two cursed swords started to combine, what was once considered a Nightmare slowly transformed into a Night Terror. Only for another voice to stop him.
"This isn't you."
"RAHHH!" the creature growled as it tried to search for the source of the voice only to see that not even Gajeel was still around.
"Do not let the beast control you."
"GRRR!"
"Ignore the voice!"
"The evil dragon will fall."
"What is this?"
"All will be separated into light and shadow."
"ROAR!"
"The world will now reach twilight."
As the swords were about to become one completed blade. Balmung suddenly appeared and slashed at the pair making them separate. Balmung soon found itself floating in front of the beast as it continued to growl. The sword soon imbedded itself into his hard armor before it started to crack.
"Balmung!" the beast started to scream in agony before it completely shattered leaving only Siegfried.
Siegfried soon found himself pulling the sword out as fabrics and metal surrounded his body. His body was soon surrounded b a black fabric with red designs with silver grieves, gauntlets and spaulders with a black short cape on his back while leaving an opening on his chest revealing his toned chest. The evil voice had disappeared as Siegfried looked at Balmung.
"Father?" Siegfried asked.
"I will always be with you my son."
(Fate Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works OST - Sword of Promised Victory)
"Don't think you're done with me!" Siegfried jumped out of the way as avoided a steel pillar. "Now that you don't have your scary persona. This will be easy you dungeons and dragons loser!" Gajeel yelled as he appeared with his iron scales surrounding his body.
"It's time to end this dragon slayer." Siegfried said as his magical circuits appeared all over his body.
"Dragon Slayer's Secret Art!" Gajeel said as he started his now "final" attack.
"The evil dragon will fall and the world will now reach twilight." Siegfried said as he twisted the handle of his sword and revealed a powerful blue light.
"Karma Demon: Iron God Sword!" Gajeel yelled.
"Now fall, Balmung!" Siegfried yelled as the blue beam went directly beside the enlarged sword and hit Gajeel directly. "This is the power of the true dragon slayer. Begone Gajeel Redfox!" he said as the attack struck Gajeel and made him crash through several layers of walls.
As Gajeel's sword retracted, the iron dragon slayer saw Balmung imbedded into his shoulder followed by Siegfried running at him with with a sphere of some sort in his hands. The sphere was transparent as various colors of magical energy could be seen swirling around it. What Gajeel didn't know was the impact of this power being able to tear through him.
"Rasengan!" Siegfried yelled as the sphere only grew as it hit Gajeel in the gut as his scales started to rip apart before he was blasted outside and into the ocean.
All Gajeel could do was close his eyes and hold onto himself as he sunk deep into the ocean. Hopefully finding the strength to swim away to avoid being finished off by the Azure Knight. Speaking of which, Siegfried fell onto one of his knees as he recalled all his swords.
(End of Song)
Siegfried took one more gander at Jose's unconscious body before standing up, "Finally, it's over." he said as he started walking away. "Time to head home." he said with a smile as gripped his shoulder and walked away.
As he left, Natsu could be seen running in with fire steaming out of his mouth with a look of euphoria on his face. Likely from the concept of fighting a strong opponent. Not like he had much of a chance to do so since the assault on Phantom earlier then that guy who jumped off of the head of the snake. So it was safe to say, that he was about to get himself a good fight.
Or at least, he thought so if there was anyone left in this destroyed room. Luckily Natsu couldn't be traumatized by the dead bodies since they were all covered by the debris. Other than that, Natsu was pretty disappointed when he found himself all alone... with happy.
"Hey! Where the hell is everyone!? I wanna fight!" Natsu yelled.
Eventually Erza and Gray caught up with him, "There you are! Don't you know reckless it is to run enemy territory!?" Erza berated which made Natsu shrink.
"Aye." Natsu replied.
"Guys, I think we have a problem." Happy said as he looked scared.
"What is it Happy?" Erza asked.
"I think I found that old guy that runs the guild." Happy said as the three turned to see Jose's body.
"I-is h-he dead?" Gray asked nervously.
Erza quickly checked his wrist before hearing a gasp, "No, he's alive, but I don't think his mind is in the right state." she answered.
However they couldn't bother to further assess Jose's health as the whole guild hall started to collapse. Leaving the three guild members and cat to drag the guild master out. Although they were still wondering what caused this destruction and where it went.
Later at guild hall... what's left of it... too early?
With the fall of Jose, his elite Element 4 and no one knowing what happened to Gajeel. Makarov arrived to use his Fairy Law to defeat the rest of the phantom spirits. With their victory, Fairy Tail returned to find their guild hall had fallen and reduced to rubble. And after remembering the reason for Phantom's attack, aside from their petty hate over Fairy Tail, Lucy started to shed tears as she blamed herself for her guild's destruction.
"Master, I'm so sorry." Lucy said much regret in her voice.
"Child you've been through a lot lately, but don't let it get you down." Makarov said reassuring her.
"Yeah, let's see a smile Lucy." Lucy turned to see her blue haired friend.
"Levy?" Lucy asked.
"We beat Phantom, so there's no reason for you to be sad." Levy said in reassurement.
"Sure, they might have destroyed our guild hall. But we're going to build it bigger and better." Jet said.
"I'm sorry that we had you so worried Lucy." Levy said.
"No, it was all my fault!" Lucy said in denial.
"We heard about your secret. But there's not a single person in the guild who blames you." Levy said.
"She's right. In fact, I owe you an apology." Reedus spoke up as he failed to protect Lucy from being captured.
"Lucy. Though we may not be able to share our feelings of happiness and sadness entirely, we do share them to some extent. That's what happens in a guild." Makarov would have continued his speech had he not been interrupted.
"And with that, you should know that Fairy Tail is like a family. And families never turn their backs on each other." everyone turned to see an armored figure in the distance whose face was covered by a glare coming from the sun. "For what makes Fairy Tail great is not power, fame or something redundant status. What makes Fairy Tail number one, is the Will of Fire." the figure explained as he approached the wizards and mages.
"Who is that guy?" Gray whispered to Erza who shrugged but kept her guard up.
Makarov smiled as he recognized the figure, "And care to explain this philosophy old friend?" he asked.
"To those who possess the Will of Fire, everyone is family. The desire to protect one's family builds thicker and stronger bonds between each and everyone in the guild. If the Will of Fire is embraced by everyone, the guild will be fine alright no matter what happens." the figure explained as his face was still blocked by the sun's glare. "However, there are those of us who abuse such a concept and stray away from our values. Those who abandon such ideals, have no right to bare the mark." he finished.
Makarov nodded as he knew what he meant, "But that doesn't mean you aren't welcome." he said as the sun started setting and lessened the glare. "Right Siegfried?" he asked.
Suddenly everyone minus Lucy and a few others went wide eyed as a familiar face returned to the guild.
"NARUTO!?" they all yelled in shock.
No one was more shocked than Levy at the sight of Siegfried returning. The petite blue haired girl slowly made her way to Siegfried's who's eye faltered as he met her gaze. Bending down to meet her height (although he was rather surprised to see that she failed to grow) and slowly found a smile on his face.
"Levy..."
*SLAP*
Everyone gasped at the sight of Levy assaulting striking her palm against Siegfried's cheek. For those that knew them, they were utterly shocked to see that the one person she considered family was assaulted by the petite girl. Although Siegfried had a small look of surprise on his face, his face returned to being more calm and composed.
"I deserve tha..."
*SLAP*
"I deserve that too." Siegfried said.
"That... that doesn't begin to cover what you REALLY deserve Siegfried Naruto!" Levy growled with clear anger in her voice.
However, she couldn't find it in her to hate her brother. As tears formed in her eyes and she latched onto him in a warm embrace. Siegfried kept a tight hold around Levy as everyone just watched at the cute scene in front of them. Except for Lucy who was shocked and confused at the same time. Sadly the touching scene was ruined by an unwanted guest.
Siegfried looked to the side to see his least favorite in the world. Aside from that mascot outside of that place that served waffles. Although that was completely unrelated and he might consider rethinking his strategy the next time he passes by his favorite restaurant which is right next to that waffle place. A story for another time perhaps.
"Fairy Tail, we are here on the behalf of the Wizard Council of Fiore." said the leader of the massive group of Rune Knights
"Prison time." Makarov said before he bursted into tears.
Siegfried's bangs covered his eyes, "Little sister, let go for a moment." he said as he stood up.
"Naruto?" Levy asked while feeling worried.
"It will be fine." Siegfried promised her as he went to face them.
"Run for it Happy!" Natsu said.
"Aye sir!" Happy yelled as the two tried to run only to be trapped in a small barrier.
"Not so fast criminal scum!" one of them said.
Siegfried soon stood beside Natsu as he dug into his pockets, "Natsu if you want to get out of there and not be locked away. Be silent while I do the talking." he told the dragon slayer.
Natsu narrowed his eyes, "Only if you promise to fight me." he said.
"What is it with you and petty fights?" Siegfried asked as he finally found what he was looking for within his new armor. "Gentlemen, I believe this situation is no longer within your jurisdiction." he said as he revealed a badge with the symbol of the Kingdom of Fiore.
The leader of the Rune Knights stiffened at the sight of it, "Preposterous! What are you of all people doing here?" he asked as he tried to hide his fear.
"I was on holiday when I ran into a scuffle between guilds." Siegfried said as the nervous man tried to form a grin.
"Irony isn't it? We were here to investigate Fairy Tail with the incident of them fighting Phantom Lord and the supposed battle between Wizard Saints." the man said.
"Wrong, what I found was several illegal charges." Siegfried said as he pulled out a notepad with heavy writing.
"What charges?" another asked.
"First of all, assault and battery against a guild hall. Followed by assault on various guild members with no chance of self defense. After this, Fairy Tail retaliated but this is overlooked as Phantom proceeded to attack with augments within their guild hall which are most likely illegal. Including one Jupiter cannon aimed for not only the Fairy Tail guild hall, but the entire town of Magnolia which I personally had to stop. Then to top it off, they accepted a mission which would immediately be declined as it revolved around the kidnapping one member of this guild. Need I go further?" Siegfried asked as he finished going through his list.
The leader gripped his staff, "No need, we will be on our way." he said as he lead his group.
However, one of the lesser experienced and ignorant Knights whispered into his senior's ear, "Why are we taking orders from that man?" he asked.
"Are you a fool? That is the Azure Knight, the king's war dog. It's his majesty's word against ours in the end. Even if we fought back, it would be a slaughter." the senior replied.
"He's right, I heard he executed several lower members of Grimoire Hearts in a fight and made two of their strongest members withdraw." another whispered as they all left a confused guild behind.
"What the heck was that?" Natsu asked before the barrier gave out and he fell on his ass.
"Politics, now then." Siegfried turned back around. He faced the guild before eyeing the rubble he once called home, "Let's see how long it takes us to rebuild." he said which made the guild cheer.
"NARUTO'S REJOINING THE GUILD!" Elfman yelled as he wrapped an arm around Siegfried's neck.
Erza maintained her distance as tears fell from her eyes. It was a rare moment to see her cry as well as she tried to extend her arm towards Siegfried who wasn't facing her direction. All while the guild was pulling him around for hugs and high fives all around. Seemingly unaware of his true intentions.
A day later
"Wood Style: Pillar Foundation!" was all everyone heard Siegfried say early in the morning as several pillars of wood came from the ground and started connecting to each other.
Makarov cried tears of joy as he latched onto Siegfried's leg, "Siegfried, you've made me so happy! First you save me from prison and now you can help rebuild the guild." he said.
Siegfried sweat dropped, "It's no trouble at all grandfather. I helped create a few homeless shelters as I travelled. So I have much experience with creating buildings." he said.
"Woah, what's up with the wood? It's like some magic is emanating from it or something." Wakaba asked as he rubbed his hand over the pillars.
"It's a rare bloodline. It was used to restrain all nine of the bijuu at one point except mine is a lot weaker." Siegfried replied as he continued forming hand seals.
Macao whistled, "So much for being weak. You've become a real powerhouse haven't you Naruto?" he asked.
"Define powerhouse, do you mean controlling power or using it?" Siegfried asked.
"You know what I mean." Macao replied.
"Say, Siegfried you said that you've visited the Elemental Nations and this is one of those bloodlines they had. Then how do you have it if you were born here in Fiore?" Makarov asked which made the men stare at Siegfried.
"It's a long story, but let me ask you this. Do you believe in reincarnation?" Siegfried asked cryptically.
"No way, once your six feet under. It's the end of the line." Wakaba answered.
"I'm not really a religious guy or anything so I wouldn't know." Macao answered.
"What does spirituality have to do with your wood?" Makarov asked.
"It's the same reason my eye implants work as if I were born with them." Siegfried replied getting a shocked face. "Oh yeah, I only told grandmother about that." he said.
"What kind of implants young man!?" Makarov demanded.
"The kind to replace the eye I lost here." Siegfried said pointing at his scarred eye. "And the other one was already heavily impaired. So I was going to be blind within the past year." he said shocking his adoptive grandfather.
"Does Porlyusica know?" Makarov asked.
"Yes and she pulled out the broom of doom a couple of times before I finished my explanation." Siegfried answered.
As the men continued to chat, Erza could be seen carrying a large block of wood after having to smack Natsu and Gray who were fighting yet again. As the Titania was about to ask the guild master where he wanted the wood to go. She stopped at the sight of Siegfried who was chatting amongst the men. Erza placed a hand over her chest as painful memories started haunting her.
Deciding to take a minute off of work. She carefully placed her wooden beam down and approached the group. As she took a deep breath, she grabbed Siegfried's attention.
"Hey... Naruto." Erza called out weakly as the blond turned his attention to her.
"Hello Erza." Siegfried greeted in a calmed manner.
The manner of his tone only made her stiffen, "I... I wanted to..." Siegfried gestured for her to continue. "I wanted to..."
"Hey everyone, I have a few ideas to expand the place. I've got the plans right here!" Mirajane spoke up as she appeared with a drawing that likely rivaled Rukia Kuchiki's.
"I liked it the way it was!" Natsu said as he got out of his hole.
"What is it going to look like now?" Gray asked.
Hi-yah!
"That looks... great." Wakaba lied.
Siegfried pinched the bridge of his nose, "Are my eyes failing me?" he asked as he looked rather disappointed in the drawing.
"Why don't you use your fancy eyes and tell us?" Macao asked.
"Fancy eyes?" Mirajane asked.
Naruto briefly closed his eyes and opened them revealing that his sclera was black and his eyes red with three black tomoe. Mirajane jumped back in fear, Wakaba choked on his smoke, Macao covered his good eye with his eyepatch and Makarov turned away in fear.
"What the hell happened to your eyes!?" Gray asked in fear.
"Hey I want cool eyes!" Natsu said he liked the design.
"Move over." Naruto said as he shoved them out of the way and stared at the drawing. 'No doubt Elfman's handiwork and Mirajane is covering for him.' he assumed. 'Wait, maybe I can see if something is manipulating Mirajane into developing this new attitude.' he thought as he stared at the nervous girl. He studied her for a minute before deactivating his Sharingan, "I guess I was wrong." he said.
"Wrong about what?" Erza asked as Siegfried turned to everyone with a stern look.
"This person really is Mirajane Strauss and no outside influence is forcing her act more ladylike." Siegfried answered bluntly which made everyone facefault.
"Why did you even think that in the first place?" Gray asked.
"Gray put some clothes on. To think I've been gone for less than a decade and you are still perverted." Siegfried said in a berating tone.
"AH!" Gray yelled as he realized he was down to his underwear.
"Hey Naruto is it? What else can those eyes do?" Happy asked.
"I forgot Natsu adopted a cat. Anyways, my eyes are a story for a different time." Siegfried replied as he went back to his wood work. "Also Erza, when you don't feel nervous. You can come and talk to me whenever you feel like it." he told the redhead who was hiding her blush.
Erza nodded while looking dumbfounded, "DID HE JUST ASK ERZA OUT!?" Natsu asked with a shocked face.
"SHE EVEN BLUSHED TOO!" Gray yelled.
"They're in love." Happy teased.
"WHO SAID YOU TWO COULD SLACK OFF!?" Erza yelled as she hit them on their heads with a wooden pillar.
"Hey are you guys taking a dirt nap?" Happy asked as the pair lost consciousness.
"She hasn't lost her touch." Siegfried muttered as he reached for his back.
"Hey Naruto!" Siegfried turned back to see Natsu getting out of his hole. "When are we going to fight!?" he asked. Siegfried turned back around and tried to tune out the dragon slayer, "Hey don't ignore me! You run away for 6 years and think you can turn back on me when I want a fight?" he asked.
"Natsu be silent, I already have an annoying loud mouth that I need to listen to." Siegfried replied.
"Hey what the hell is that supposed to mean! We're the same guy for crying out loud!" Naruto yelled.
'I matured and you're a fragment of my soul. If anything, you're just another personality in my head.' Siegfried replied mentally.
"Geez, now I know how Kurama feels. First you go berserk and now you call me a loudmouth." Naruto said.
"Hey, earthland to Naruto are you listening?" Siegfried turned to see Levy.
"Sorry did you say something?" Siegfried replied.
"Don't talk Kakashi sensei!" Naruto said.
Levy briefly looked offended before smiling again, "I think you need a break mister. You've been gone for too long and now you think you can run by getting to work." she said as she pulled on his arm and dragged him somewhere else.
"Hey wait up! He still needs to fight me!" Natsu yelled as he chased after them.
"Even with the return of an old comrade. Things never change." Makarov said happily while Erza hugged her shoulder.
'Not everything stays the same master.' Erza thought.
A few days later
Construction was going well and Mirajane announced that everyone is free to take their jobs. So naturally, a bunch of the greedy nameless background members of the guild started surrounding the board to find a new job. Meanwhile Lucy was complaining about her butt or something. She mentioned that her celestial spirits didn't like their keys being dropped.
So one of them, Aquarius, proceeded to punish her with the act of flogging. So now everyone was thinking of how they can contribute to her butt. Whether it be healing or harming it.
"I could cool it for you." Gray said as his hand was covered in ice.
"Sounds like sexual harassment." Lucy replied with a blush.
"Lucy can you me how red your butt is?" Happy asked.
"You've crossed the line with that comment!" Lucy said looking annoyed.
"How do you think she will react if I make her butt sting even more?" Natsu asked Happy as his hand was covered in fire.
"Who are you the devil!?" Lucy yelled in fear.
Suddenly things were intense as a barrel hit Natsu. Everyone turned to Laxus who was mocking everyone for being weak.
"Just say what you really mean!" Erza yells at the most arrogant member of the guild.
"I'll tell you loud and clear. This guild is full of losers and weaklings." Laxus said before turning to Lucy. "Speaking of which, this is your fault you spoiled princess." he added.
"Laxus! Would you shut up? The master said no one was to be held accountable. Not even you when you turned your back on when I was begged for your help." Mirajane berated.
"Stop your whining. That fight had nothing to do with me. But if I had been there, you wouldn't be drowning your sorrows in rubble right now." Laxus said ever so arrogantly. "I can't wait to inherit this place. So I can kick all you losers to the curb." he added.
"And why would anyone with a clear state of mental choose you to be a master of any guild?" asked a voice.
Laxus grinned as he turned to the sound of the voice, "Because I'm the strongest one in the guild obviously." he answered before scowling.
"That's funny, last time I checked, your name isn't Gildarts." Siegfried replied with a scoff.
"What the hell is the runaway doing here?" Laxus demanded.
"I'm here to finish rebuilding. Although I may be a runaway, I do not hide like a coward." Siegfried answered as he straightened his tie.
"Well you should have stayed where you belonged." Laxus said with a snarl.
"You would like that wouldn't you?" Siegfried asked only receiving silence. "Well then, I suppose if you are going to run your mouth and be useless. Perhaps you should take your turn and leave." he said coldly which made some of the guild members flinch at his tone.
"Don't you turn your back on me!" Laxus yelled only for Seigfried to remove his suit jacket and tie while not batting him an eye.
Laxus didn't like being ignored, he decided that this reject didn't have a place at the guild and wanted to kick him out. He was a deserter anyways, so why did he deserve to bother visiting let alone stick his nose into their business when Phantom attacked? Laxus didn't think it was his business to fight back, but it didn't mean he would let some weak outsider talk down to him.
So when he was ready to bash his fist into the back of Siegfried's skull. He was surprised to be met with a puff of smoke and a log. Turning around, he saw the Azure Knight tripping and kicking him into the wall while he was in the air.
"Holy crap, he hit Laxus!" Gray yelled out as it was nearly impossible to hit the guild master's grandson.
"I wonder if Konohamaru would have turned out this way if I never beat some sense into him." Naruto said.
"Damn you." Laxus said as he got up and ran at Siegfried with a fist full of lightning.
Before anyone could say anything, Siegfried grabbed Laxus's arm and twisted it, "Foolish older brother." he said.
Everyone gasped at what Siegfried called him, "Don't call me that!" Laxus demanded before being slammed back into the wall.
"Your arrogance knows no bounds." Siegfried said as Laxus tried to pry off the iron grip.
"It's not arrogance if I know for sure that I'm the strongest you little bastard." Laxus said as he disappeared and reappeared behind Siegfried in a flash of lightning. "That's why I'm going to be the next guild master." he said as he tried to punch him.
Siegfried slapped the punch away with the back of his hand before kicking in the chest, "I see someone needs to discipline you." he says as he cracks his neck and knuckles.
(Fate Apocrypha OST - Battle)
"Are those two really going to fight?" Lucy asked.
"I think they are." Mirajane said looking worried.
Although she knew this fight could lead to the guild being wrecked even more, she was more worried about Naruto. Sure she knew he was strong enough to handle some members of the Element 4, but wasn't entirely sure if it was the doing of the monster she saw him turn into. Now that she thought about it, he never really revealed that monstrous form to anyone else and it wasn't her place to say anything about it.
It didn't stop her from worrying about Siegfried and how this fight could turn out.
"You must have some real deathwish if you think you can beat me brat." Laxus said with an excited grin as electricity was leaking from his body.
Siegfried kept a stoic demeanor, "Don't think so highly of yourself. You aren't the first fake dragon slayer I've fought." he said making Laxus frown.
"Fake dragon slayer!?" Natsu yelled.
The two combatants ignored him as they engaged in hand to hand combat. Laxus went in using heavy and quick strikes only to be pushed away and even get kicked in the face a couple times. Having become annoyed so easily, Laxus proceeded to punch the ground making it shake. Siegfried avoided losing balance and merely jumped up and tried to slap his heel over Laxus's head.
Laxus blocked the attack with his wrists and pushed Siegfried away who landed unharmed. Snarling at the sight of wannabe, Laxus dashed at him with amazing speed only to be countered by an equivalent amount which lead to the two clashing with their respective wrists.
"You're really annoying you know that?" Laxus asked.
"And you talk too much." Siegfried replied before they pushed each other back.
The two continued trading blows with neither showing any sign of fatigue. Laxus was more than ready to blast the entire area with a single lightning strike, but Siegfried wouldn't let that happen. While some already predicted Laxus as the victor, no one was aware of the skills he had or even used during the fight against Phantom. Leaving him as the wild card of the guild.
Laxus turned his head and decided to distract his enemy by hitting some of the "weaker" members, "Lightning Dragon's Roar!" he called out.
Siegfried quickly activated his Sharingan to prevent the attack, "Susanoo!" he called out as his behemoth sized armor blocked the attack. "That is very low of you Laxus. To attack your own guild like that. You are worse than scum." he said with narrowed eyes.
"Like I care, the weak are just a waste of space. I'll be doing us a favor by clearing out the strong from the weak." Laxus said making everyone question his sanity.
"Then you are lost." Siegfried said as he smashed his susanoo's fist on top of Laxus who managed to get away in time.
"Too slow! The World... oh shit, wrong show." Laxus said only avoid several kunai and shuriken.
(A/N: For all the English dub watchers. Laxus's voice actor also plays Dio Brando. Fun fact, Meliodas, Rin Okumura and Shirou Emiya all share the same English voice actor as well.)
Siegfried dashed at Laxus and continued the fight as he kept kunais in both hands. Laxus managed to avoid the slashes and landed a knee on Siegfried's chest and tossed him onto the ground. Siegfried recovered and threw one of the kunai before surrounding his remaining one in wind chakra to create a technique similar to the wind sword.
Laxus shot a few more bursts of lightning at Siegfried who jumped and spinned around each attack. Siegfried got close and slashed at Laxus who blocked with his wrists. Only to feel the effect of the wind chakra as he felt his skin being cut through sleeves. Siegfried yelped in pain as he jumped back, narrowly avoiding a stream of fire coming out Siegfried's mouth.
"Naruto can use dragon slayer magic!?" Natsu yelled out.
"No you idiot, he just learned some fire related magic." Gray said.
"Hey that was my second guess ice princess! You don't need to mock me for it!" Natsu barked.
As the fight continued, Laxus coated his arm in lightning and tried to slash at Siegfried who wasn't facing him. Using the two seconds he had to strike, Laxus was able to tear off Siegfried's black dress shirt, but was unable to land a wound. Instead, his assault resulted in revealing Siegfried's misshapen scar and crossed out guild mark.
(Fairy Tail Theme Sad Version)
Even Laxus went wide eyed and stopped as he saw the disturbing marks on his back. Before he realized it, he started having issues breathing as he saw it. It was almost as if time had stopped. That's when he started hearing the voices.
"Remember Laxus, mama isn't invincible. Especially with baby Sieg on his way. I guess for now, you can protect the two of us for now. You think you can do that for me? Or at the very least protect your baby brother?"
"Yes mama, I'm gonna be the next best swordsman so you and Sieg don't have to be in danger."
"That's all I wanted to hear Laxus."
"I love you mama."
"...I love you too Laxus... my precious son."
As Laxus was paralyzed from shock. Everyone also felt as if time had come to a stop. Levy was in tears as she saw the scar and Cana gasped at the X that was over his mark. Lucy was also shocked to see that a member of her guild would willingly write over his mark as if he was against them or something. Erza's fists were clenched as a single tear had fallen from her eye.
Siegfried noticed his back was exposed and quickly gripped his shoulder and gritted his teeth. Almost as if he were in pain, he let go and quickly switched to his Tribute armor and summoned Clarent to his hand. Not taking the distracted state that Laxus was in for granted. He kicked him into the ground and embedded Clarent into the ground beside his head.
"ENOUGH!" Siegfried turned his head to see Makarov had arrived.
Laxus snapped out of it and kicked Siegfried away before noticing the sword and got angry, "You don't deserve to wield that sword!" he yelled as he tried to pull out of the ground.
"Laxus that is enough!" Makarov yelled in a tone that left no room for argument. "I may be old, but I am no fool. I can see that there is a lot of tension in the guild and old wounds have been reopened. However, I will not tolerate a life or death fight between my two grandsons in my guild. Am I understood?" he asked.
Siegfried remained silent for once while Laxus wasn't even meeting his grandfather's gaze.
"AM. I. CLEAR?" Makarov asked.
Laxus felt unnerved as did Siegfried, "Yes grandfather/old man." they said.
"Good, now someone better clean up." Makarov said as he went to pour himself a drink.
Laxus gazed once more at Clarent before glaring at Siegfried. He didn't bother batting another eye or try to take the sword for himself, but instead disappeared in a flash of lightning. Siegfried extended his arm and made the sword sink into a golden portal before clutching his shoulder.
"I will return to continue repairs at a later time." Siegfried said as he picked up his torn shirt and kept his armor on. "I need to get this to a tailor." he said as he walked out of the guild leaving a stunned crowd.
With the Azure Knight
Siegfried started to stumble and need to rely on the walls to stay up. If anyone was nearby, they would hear him grunting as his breathing was faint. Siegfried looked around and saw that his apartment was only a few minutes away in walking distance. However, it didn't help that his other side wanted to be let and it was taking a lot of energy just to suppress him.
"I can't restrain him for much longer." Siegfried said to himself as he continued to drag his body towards his temporary home. "This armor is too heavy for me right now." he said as he unequipped his armor and continued to move only to collapse on a garbage can. 'So weak...' he thought.
Siegfried soon looked at his right arm and saw it transform into a large deformed claw. Closing his eyes and shaking his head, the arm was as normal as the day he was born. Picking himself up, he continued to stumble and drag himself away.
Siegfried briefly looked back at the guild and back to his path, 'This is my burden and mine alone.' he thought as he continued to stumble away.
One week later
It was a cool afternoon, Makarov managed to hand Siegfried a construction worker suit similar to his own. So now he didn't have to worry about about ruining his suits or revealing his back scar. Now the day was over and he was sitting by the counter on one of the stools enjoying a cold bottle of water. He hasn't seen that asshole he used to call a brother lately.
It was rather upsetting knowing that the idiot is running around talking about how he'll be guild master because of his power.
"Calling everyone weak, bah. If it wasn't for that lacrima, grandfather and my mother would have to bury him six feet under." Siegfried muttered as he stared at his drink. Then suddenly he felt a lot of tension in the air before he turned his head, "Mirajane if you have something to say. Don't keep it bottled up, it's bad for you and me sense I can sense emotions." he said which made the barmaid nervous.
Mirajane chuckled nervously as she scratched the back of her head, "That sounds like a cool ability. What is it called?" she asked.
"It's called sensory, very few people have it. Mine is very strong thanks to "anatomy" so I can go far as notice emotions and intentions. I also know when someone is lying to me." Siegfried answered with an informative tone rather than proud or arrogant.
Mirajane was impressed, "So, with that's pretty cool to know. Anyways, I was wondering if you would like to..." she trailed off.
"Like to do what?" Siegfried asked as his sensory abilities were far from reading minds.
Mirajane blushed as her hands were behind her back, "Natsu, Erza, and the others are performing a play for a job. So the master and his fellow guild masters are getting together to watch it. So I wanted to know if, you wanted to tag along with us." she asked.
Siegfried thought it over, "I guess I could take a break from construction. Sure, I'll go." he answered.
Mirajane internally squealed although she started wondering why it felt so difficult and thought she was overthinking it. However Siegfried only detected drastic excitement which reduced to mild happiness.
"Ok, Master Makarov gave me an extra ticket right here oops!" Mirajane said as she fumbled with it.
Siegfried managed to catch it in the air, "I'll see you on the opening day." he said leaving the barmaid to compose herself.
Opening day, train
Makarov was happy to see that his adopted grandson was joining them on their trip. Along with the elderly guild master was his former guildmate turned council member, Yajima, along with Bob from Blue Pegasus and Goldmine from Quatro Cerberus. All three glad to see that the young man was alive and well since they were all good friends with his mother Mordred back during her days in the guild.
However just as Siegfried was about take his seat. Makarov proceeded to leave him and Mirajane together near the front of the train cart. Meanwhile he would sit next Yajima while Goldmine sat next to Bob.
"Oh Makey, you have to tell me. Are you setting those two up together?" Bob asked whispering the last part.
"I don't know what you're talking about." Makarov replied feigning ignorance.
Goldmine scoffed, "I know this tactic Makarov. You did this when Sieg was still alive since you saw him as more than Mordred's rival." he said.
"So you are setting them up." Bob accused in a teasing tone.
"I know how this is going to end Makarov. You better hope Mordred's son is good at damage control as she was." Yajima said knowing Mordred would lay down the law when Makarov wasn't around. "Then again, if he is like his mother. Maybe you've found yourself a new successor." he suggested.
"I doubt it, maybe in a decade, but Siegfried is a little damaged to lead anyone and a little ill experienced." Makarov replied.
Not that he lacked faith in Siegfried, he just didn't think he had the mentality to lead a guild just yet. Similar to a certain scarecrow who succeeded his teacher and took the job in honor of his student.
"I think that was also Mordred's dream before she got pregnant. I still remember she told me and Bob, "Well you better whip those sissies into shape. Because I'm whooping ass when the old man steps down." and maybe then you wouldn't worry about your guild destroying towns." Goldmine said.
Makarov sighed at the idea of a relaxed version of Erza running the guild, "I doubt Natsu and his team would live to be as old as they are now." he said. 'Then again, maybe Siegfried wouldn't have run away and Laxus would have been more humble. Did I fail fail you Mordred?' he thought as he wondered about his surrogate daughter in the after life.
Meanwhile with the pair, Mirajane felt slightly nervous as Makarov forced her to sit next to Siegfried. The Azure Knight placed his head on his palms as he wondered how far this theater was. All the while wondering what's causing the stress within Mirajane. He may not be as clueless as he was in his previous life, but it didn't mean every girl was as obvious as Hinata Hyuga.
After a long awkward silence, Mirajane decided to stand up and get some fresh air at the back of the car. Siegfried gave her some space as she began to walk up. Makarov frowned as he saw the little to no action that his grandson was making.
"It doesn't look like your plan is working Makey." Bob said.
Suddenly a light bulb appeared above Makarov's head, "Bob stand up for a second." he said.
Bob did as he requested, "Makarov what the hell are you..." Goldmine didn't finish as Makarov enlarged his fist.
"SLUG BUG!" Makarov yelled as he punched Bob into the other side of the train car.
Bob's weight added by the force of Makarov's punch was enough to make the train car briefly tilt. While Bob's eyes were spinning, Mirajane fell back only to be caught in Siegfried's arms and end up sitting on his lap. Makarov grinned as his plan was in motion while Yajima and Goldmine helped their bald friend back to his seat.
(Parasyte OST - Next To You)
"I think it did work." Bob said as he regained his vision.
"Na-Naru-Naruto! I-I..." Mirajane stuttered.
"Holy crap, is she related to Hinata or something?" Original Naruto asked.
"I know, the train must have briefly disconnected. Are you ok?" Siegfried asked. Mirajane nodded as her cheeks slowly turned pink, "Do you want me to help you sit back down?" he asked.
"Come on man, try harder than that. She's a really pretty girl. About as pretty as Erza-chan man! And... kami I've turned into pervy sage... NNNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Original Naruto yelled at the top of his nonexistent lungs.
Siegfried gripped his head in pain, "Naruto are you ok?" Mirajane asked.
"Not entirely, I think the tilting gave me a migraine." Siegfried lied but she wasn't able to tell.
Mirajane smiled, "I guess we're both not feeling well." she said trying to lighten up the mood.
"I guess." Siegfried said as helped her up again.
"Nevermind Makey." Bob said.
"SLUG BUG!" Makarov yelled as he knocked Bob into the other side of the train car again.
"Can you knock that off already?" Goldmine asked.
Back to the pair, Mirajane fell into Siegfried's arms again, "Haha, I guess you're my guardian angel now." she said trying to make it less awkward as she found herself hugging him.
Siegfried kept himself composed despite the fact that Mirajane was now lying her head on his shoulder, "A guardian of some kind maybe." he said
"Naruto, do you remember when we were kids. The day you lead me and my siblings to Fairy Tail?" Mirajane asked.
"It was the day everyone started calling me by my last name." Siegfried answered.
"You know, I still can't pronounce your name right." Mirajane said jokingly.
"Is that so? I can pronounce your name entirely, Mirajane Strauss." Siegfried replied dryly.
Mirajane rolled her eyes, "Well I never expected the little runt from back in the day to be so big... and handsome." she muttered the last part with a blush.
"Things don't always go as planned. I should know from experience." Siegfried said as he reflected on his past decisions.
"Naruto, if you could change one thing in your life. I'm not talking about the past by the way, I'm talking about one thing now. What would it be?" Mirajane asked.
Siegfried turned his head towards the window and saw Nightmare staring back at him, "My fear." he answered as he blinked only to find his true reflection.
"Ok I guess for me..." Mirajane started as she pulled her head back and faced him. "...probably my self confidence." she finished.
Siegfried looked down and placed his hand over the locket around her neck, "You're wearing the locket. I thought you didn't like it. So Lisanna... I'm so sorry." Siegfried immediately stopped himself.
Mirajane looked down, "It's ok Naruto, Lisanna opened my eyes to a lot of things even before the incident." she started.
"Mirajane, you don't have to talk about it. I have my secrets and you have yours." Siegfried said stopping her.
(End of Song)
"I see." Mirajane said as she removed her arms and sat down beside him.
Siegfried sat down and things remained silent for a while, "You know, even if I gave that to you. I'm glad you have something to remember your little sister with." he said complimenting her.
Mirajane placed a hand over her locket, "I know, she's not really gone if we never forget about her." she said.
Siegfried nodded, "It doesn't mean all good things are permanent, but it also doesn't mean we can't try to enjoy life." he said trying to be optimistic.
Mirajane smiled as she slowly scooted closer to him.
"What did I say boys?" Makarov asked.
"I'm putting my money on the red head." Yajima stated.
"I'm going for both." Bob said earning a confused look from all of them. "What?" he asked.
"Bob have you been reading those books from that frog guy?" Goldmine asked.
Bob gave his former teammate a grin, "There's nothing wrong with Jiraiya-sama's old works." he said pulling out a familiar orange book.
"Hey Makey, don't you have that same one?" Yajima asked.
"Mine is green." Makarov answered.
A while later, Oshibana station
Upon arrival, Siegfried exited the train cart and extended his hand to Mirajane who blushed. Makarov grinned as he watched the gesture. Mirajane accepted the hand and carefully walked down off of the train. Continuing from the station and to the theater. The group saw team Natsu already speaking to various characters ranging from the Eisenwald chicken to a bunch of pirates.
"Hey you guys made it!" Lucy said excitedly.
"Of course Lucy! We wouldn't miss it for the world!" Mirajane said.
Lucy turned her head to see Siegfried, "It's good to see you too Siegfried." she said managing to say his name correctly.
"Just call him Naruto, he likes it better." Mirajane said.
"No, you call me that because you can't say my name. Unlike you Lucy, which I appreciate the effort. I see why my little sister speaks so highly of you." Siegfried said as he shook Lucy's hand.
Then a weird idea came to Lucy's mind, "Wait are you two on a date?" she asked.
Erza heard that immediately turned her head and briefly locked eyes with Mirajane. Mirajane returned the look before the two turned away. Natsu, Happy and Gray saw the look that the two women gave each other and started panicking. They both knew Erza's fury was rising and there was a chance Mirajane would be willing to fight back like they used to back in the day.
Erza decided to approach the pair, "So, I see... you're getting used to being around everyone again Naruto." she said trying to remain confident.
"I guess, Mirajane just asked me to tag along." Siegfried said bluntly.
At that moment he sensed Erza feeling relieved while Mirajane felt disheartened. Siegfried started putting two and two together. It was only a matter of time before he could confirm his hypothesis.
"Uh, I don't get it. Are they sick or something? I think I saw Mira turning red a couple times during the train ride." Naruto said.
'Did Kurama lower your intelligence as well?' Siegfried wondered.
Siegfried snapped out of it as he found Mirajane hugging his arm, "Well I hope you two break a leg. We'll be watching from above." Mirajane said.
Erza stiffened, "I'll feel well knowing you're routing for us." she said as she turned around.
Erza stopped as she felt a hand on her shoulder, "Erza, the past does not define or decide your course of fate. Do not fear what happens today, but believe that something good can come from it." she heard Siegfried say.
Erza's heart stopped for one whole second before restarting and slowly started to beat quickly. For some reason the second Titania felt as if it was hard to breath along with various emotions. However, she kept a stoic look as she turned back to Siegfried with a nod.
"Thank you for the kind words Naruto. Perhaps we can get together at after the show." Erza said mentally kicking herself.
"You idiot! Now he's going to think you're desperate!" Inner Erza yelled.
'What are you!?' Erza asked mentally.
"I'm your inner self! Your second personality and thoughts!" Inner Erza answered.
'Begone thot!' Erza said mentally.
"No wait! I need to give you advice!" Inner Erza said before being removed from existence.
'That sort of thing would really damage my mentality.' Erza thought as she walked away.
"Um Sieg, I think Erza-chan is having a war going on in her head." Naruto said.
'I'll explain it to you later.' Siegfried thought as he sensed Erza's change in emotions. "Let us go Mira, we should take our seats as everyone else prepares." Siegfried suggested as he gently grabbed her hand and led her inside.
Lucy stared at the pair as they walked away, "I should ask Mira to give me the details when it's over." she said thinking it was a date.
During the show
Once again Makarov managed to get those two alone again. Siegfried knew his grandfather was cheap and could tell that he lied about having these VIP seats paid for. It didn't take his sensory abilities to tell that Makarov threatened the VIPs that paid for the booth right next to his. That must have been the third time Makarov yelled Slug Bug and punched someone pretty hard.
He turned to see a blushing Mirajane who avoided his gaze, "It's a good view don't you think?" she asked.
"It's fine, had this been before my operation. I would be having issues with my vision." Siegfried replied.
'Is he talking about his red eyes?' Mirajane wondered.
Before she could muster the courage to pry about his dojutsu. Lyra, one of Lucy's celestial spirits, appeared and sang a song as she played her harp. From there, the spotlight revealed Erza wearing a man's costume while some pirate was calling out to her as "Me Beauty". Just as she appeared to say her first line, Erza started to freeze up.
"Uh uh... I'm a prince... here to save the princess! Because! Because I... because I have ten swords!" Erza said as she summoned various weapons and launched them at the audience.
Siegfried looked concerned, "Is something wrong with her?" he asked.
Mirajane smiled and waved it off, "I'm sure it's just some stage fright." she said.
Siegfried could only look with concern as he saw Erza slowly turning blue. Suddenly Lucy appeared as she hanged from a rope.
"Oh my beloved prince Frederic please save me! I'm held in the clutches of the brute Seinheart!" Lucy pleaded proving that she might have more skill as an actress.
Then Gray showed up, "I am the great Julius!" he said.
"Wasn't there supposed to be someone named Sienhart?" Siegfried asked earning a shrug from Mirajane.
Erza's blue face slowly turned to Gray, "I challenge you... duel!" she said as she fired her swords at him.
"I'm out of here!" Gray yelled in fear.
Erza eventually freed Lucy from her ropes and took a knee as she extended her hand towards the blonde, "Lady Yanderica, let's get married and have lots of children, like 33!" she said.
Siegfried was confused, "Pushing it don't you think?" he asked.
Mirajane giggled nervously, "It's an ok show." she partially lied.
The play then continued with Gray returning once more, "The calm before the storm shall endeth noweth. Death awaits though! Char him my dragon!" he yelled as Natsu could be seen in a dragon suit with Happy holding him up.
"I'm a powerful dragon! I'll destroy you all!" Natsu roared.
"King Bahamut would be disappointed." Siegfried muttered.
"Let's vanquish it together!" Gray said which prompted Siegfried to hit head head against the railing.
"Are you ok Naruto?" Mirajane asked.
"And you people called me and Natsu the idiots." Siegfried said as he hated the logic of the play.
The play soon took a turn for the worse as Happy lost his grip and dropped Natsu. Natsu was still breathing fire which lit Lucy's dress on fire. The celestial mage panicked as she ran around as Gray try to put it out with some magic. However Erza proceeded to cut off her dress and remained in character much to Lucy's displeasure as she was almost completely naked on stage.
That's when some cow or minotaur like creature crashed through the stage asking about Lucy's body before disappearing. Siegfried turned to see that everyone minus Makarov was enjoying the play as if this accident was a part of the act. That's when he looked up to see the building starting to fall apart as the fire raged on.
"Improv is so weird." Mirajane said before Siegfried grabbed her. "Naruto what's wrong?" she asked worriedly.
(Arkham Knight OST - Inner Demon)
"Mira, the building is coming apart. I need you to enter Satan Soul and grab my grandfather and his friends while I try to keep the structure together." Siegfried told her.
Mirajane looked up to see the ceiling cracking, but her face faltered, "I'm sorry Naruto, but I can't do that." she said.
"Why not? Lives are in danger and..."
"I can't transform! Not anymore!" Mirajane interrupted.
"Are you serious?" Mirajane nodded sadly. "Damn, I guess I'll have to do this the hard way." Siegfried said as he created several clones. One picked up Mirajane in a bridal carry that made her face turn red, "Get her and everyone else out of here while I try to keep the building as stable as I can." he ordered.
"Wait! Naruto!" Mirajane called out to him only for the clone to carry her away.
Meanwhile the real Siegfried equipped to his Tribute Armor and and jumped towards the stage. All the while the other clones were pretty much forcing the audience to leave the theater. Including the director who was freaking out about Siegfried ruining the show. A chop to the neck was enough to silence the short man as a clone dragged him away.
Why do I do this?
"Hey Naruto what the heck are you doing!?" Gray demanded.
"Keeping you from getting everyone hurt." Siegfried replied as he grabbed Gray by the head. "You idiots are destroying the theatre." he said as he made the ice mage look at the building that was collapsing.
"Crap, we did again!" Gray said as his eyes were bulging out.
I do it because it's the right thing to do.
Erza was still trapped in character and kept launching her weapons at Natsu. The dragon slayer was still running around burning things. That only made things worse.
"Gray, grab any stragglers and drag them outside." Siegfried ordered as he dealt with the other two. Gray nodded as he ran off thinking Naruto would calm his teammates down, "That's enough you two!" he told them.
"I must save the princess!" Erza yelled.
"I'm a very dangerous dragon that will burn you all!" Natsu yelled.
"Where the hell is that damn cat?" Siegfried asked before avoiding several wooden pillars.
I do it because it thrills me
Siegfried used his mokuto to hold the pillars up, "Great, now I need to grab the cat." he said as he made another clone to take Happy who was knocked out on the floor.
"Naruto! Time to fight!" Natsu yelled as he charged at Siegfried.
"Tsukiyomi." Siegfried said making Natsu stop and pass out.
"Princess! I..." Erza was slapped by Siegfried and made her come to her senses.
"Erza, I need you to come with me. The building is burning down due to Natsu's stupidity and you having a mental breakdown." Siegfried said as the fire started spreading.
Erza shook her head as she realized how dire the situation was, "Is everyone evacuated?" she asked.
"They should be, all we need to do is drag Natsu out of here." Siegfried warned only turn and see his support pillars cracking. "We need to move, NOW." he said as he lifted Natsu over his shoulder and grabbed Erza's hand.
I do it because I'm reckless
The pillars managed to hold long enough to run towards the main lobby. However the entrance had already collapsed as fire was already spreading. Erza was mentally kicking herself for letting this fire escalate too quickly.
"I could try to shunshin us, but I rarely do it with anyone around me." Siegfried suggested as more debris fell down.
"You do what?" Erza asked.
"I'll explain later!" Siegfried said as he pulled Erza close around his waist.
Erza blushed at how close they were, but before she could say anything. Siegfried made a ram seal with his free hand. Before Erza knew it, she was surrounded by wind and smoke. When it cleared up, they were outside where everyone else was being treated by local police force and fire department.
"Erza, if it's any consolation. Gray ruined the story for me." Siegfried said not noticing her blush, but did sense her getting flustered. 'Wait, didn't Mirajane have these emotions when we were in the train?' he wondered.
"Run Sieg! Discard your emotions! You'll turn into pervy sage!" Naruto yelled into his head.
Siegfried gently (actually forcefully) dropped Natsu, but for some reason kept his arm around Erza. As he unequipped his armor, Erza wrapped her arms around him.
"Naruto... I'm so sorry..." Erza said as she lied her head on his chest.
"The fire and building collapse wasn't your fault Erza." Siegfried partially lied, but he didn't want to be an insensitive asshole.
"No, it's not about the theatre. It's about what I did to you! I'm sorry for hurting you! For causing that scar on your back!" Erza said as she began to quietly sob on his chest. "I'm sorry for making you hate Fairy Tail..." she stopped herself as she felt him stroke her hair.
"You have very pretty hair Erza-chan. Along with a wild imagination." Siegfried said as he tried to sound sympathetic. "Fairy Tail didn't do anything to invoke my wrath. I turned my back on all of you that night. My mark, it's the sign of a deserter." he said. Erza's eye went wide, "For that, I'm not ready to return as a member of the guild. I'm just a stranger repaying his debt." he added.
Siegfried looked out of the corner of his eye to see Mirajane standing there with a smile that turned into a sad face. He could tell that she felt relieved, but at the same time, somewhat disappointed.
"Hopefully, I can get your team out this jam. For now, don't shed any tears. Your my mother's successor after all." Siegfried said as he broke off the hug and went to speak to the officials.
Erza just stood there wiping her tears away, 'I forced him to leave the guild.' she thought as she saw him walk away.
I do it because it's my Will of Fire
TO BE CONTINUED...
Sneak Peak of Chapter 4 (Spoiler Warning, some parts may be edited later)
The Celestial Spirit King stared down at the knight, his old friend and Lucy, "It does give me great sorrow to see my friend in great in pain. However, my verdict still stands." the king said.
Lucy was about to speak up until Siegfried slammed his sword into the ground, "I once knew a man who lived in the past. He lived his days hiding his sorrow and for that, he made many mistakes, however he taught me one thing. One thing I shall forever keep close to my heart. Those who abandon a mission are trash." Siegfried started.
The celestial spirit king raised an eyebrow wondering where this is going.
"But those who abandon their comrades are worse than trash. And you!" Siegfried yells as as he lifts his blade once more pointing at the king. "Are no exception to such words!" he yells.
"Naruto be quiet already! I'm not looking for forgiveness!" Loke yelled.
"This isn't about you repenting anymore Loke! This about your kind as a whole!" Siegfried yelled forcing the spirit to be silent. "As for you. You are willing to allow the mages who collect the keys of your so called friends to be abused. Whereas you treat them as traitors for something out of their control." he said.
The king did not look happy one bit, "Are you mocking my reign and rule?" he asked which sounded more like a threat.
"I might as well be, you've allowed your close friend to suffer. Whereas I have full knowledge of Karen Lilica's true killer. Yet you stand here handing him the blame." Siegfried claimed.
"And who would this killer be?" the king asked.
Siegfried once more placed his sword on the ground, "He stands before you." he answered making Loke and Lucy gasp. The king started to become more curious by the minute, "And my witness." Siegfried said as he pulled out a golden key. "Is Aries herself!" he said.