Hello,
Thank you for all your support.
human dragon – Thank you so much.
Sammy9992 – Hi thank you for reviewing. Virgo seems like a popular choice, so I definitely think about. I can see what you mean about Henry's escape. I was trying to illustrate his insanity through his disregard for safety, but it did come off a little cartoonish. Also, the reason why Night Terror let him go was because the others needed him and didn't want to get personal feelings in the way.
danielsnow – As I said before I would definitely think about Virgo. It would be quite interesting to write.
Regarding the goddess comment, I didn't mean like an actual goddess, but rather it being the personification of misfortune. This is based on ancient mythologies where deities were more symbolic. Sorry for the confusion.
Exploring Night Terror's and Cana's relationship will be tricky in the next few chapters, because straight after is the Lyon arc and then, almost immediately, the Phantom Lord arc. Also, I want to do a chapter of when they were all young, so I've got a lot to juggle.
Djinn – Thank you so much. I also liked writing that tale as it showed how devastating Fear magic can be for the Phobos. Oh, I'm pretty sure Erza would somehow trick Night Terror into making Strawberry Cheesecake.
MBS41 – Thank you. I am determined to make sure I don't regurgitate from the original story because that would be boring. So, I'm glad that you've enjoyed the original work. As for Erza trusting Night Terror… hmmm it will probably build up over time, but I think the turning point will be after the Tower of Heaven arc.
The-Killer40513 – Thank you for telling me this motto, I've never heard of it. I'll probably think one similar for the Clan.
Ikusatsunagi – Thank you for the suggestion, I'll see what I can do.
Tenma Kirin – Wait no longer.
Thanks for the reviews.
Enjoy :)
Chapter 7: The Strongest Mage
Lucy's Apartment
Lucy woke up and rubbed the sleep from her eyes. She mumbled something about needing a bath and dragged herself to her bathroom.
After having her bath and waking up properly, Lucy began to think of the events from last night. She had never seen Night Terror so worried (Well, she assumed he was worried, it was kind of hard to tell).
She knew he was reluctant to tell her, and she understood. It was none of her business and she shouldn't pry into his life.
'I guess I just feel bad. He's completely alone with no other Phobos to talk to,' she thought as she dried herself off.
She looked up at the mirror and dried her hair with a towel. She stared at her reflection for a few moments before smiling at herself.
'That's why I must be there to support him. He doesn't have to tell me anything if he doesn't want to, but I must show him that I am always there for him,' she thought proudly.
What Levy said to her a couple of days ago flashed through mind automatically.
'Aww are you missing him already.'
'Who knew you liked the tall, dark, and scary types.'
Lucy face turned bright red and she shyly looked away from the mirror.
"I be with him as a friend, obviously," she told herself, "I don't have a crush on him. I mean what is there to crush on? His dark robe, his ominous voice, his gentle nature….he's supportive…a good listener…he's polite and doesn't get into random fights…he has cute hobbies like baking and…"
She realised she was going down a rabbit hole and snapped herself out of it.
"Damn you, Levy," she muttered as she wrapped the towel around her, "It's already the morning and I'm already stress," she said to herself as she opened the door.
"Hey Lucy," greeted a topless Grey as he lazily reclined on her sofa.
"ARE YOU KIDDING ME!" Lucy shrieked as she kicked Grey off the sofa, "WHAT ARE DOING IN HERE!"
"Ow, what was that for," Grey groaned as he stared up an irritated Lucy.
"What do you mean what was that for! You're in my apartment! And topless!" she shouted at him, "What are you doing!?"
Grey shrugged and picked himself up, "Well, how was supposed to tell you that the fight between Natsu and Erza was going to begin."
"Knocking on the door. Like a normal person," she retorted before he expression relaxed, "Wait fight?"
Guild Hall
Night Terror was in his usual seat at the guild. He watched his guildmembers heading outside for the fight Erza had promised Natsu. He sipped his Earl Gray tea and heard some loud laughter on the far end of the guild.
Cana was the complete opposite of how she was last night. This morning she was much merrier, having already drunk a few mugs of beer and volunteered herself to be the bookkeeper for the fight. She was so distraught last night that Night Terror couldn't believe it was the same person.
He sighed sadly as he thought of Cana's predicament. She had been coming to him for counselling or for company for years now and she hadn't got any better. Night Terror was also upset by the fact that he couldn't help her with her fear. It was troubling to be a Fear mage and not being able to help.
It was pathetic of him.
Still, he wondered why she had come that night. Usually, she would come to him when S class trials were coming up or have passed. Or whenever Gildarts pays a rare visit. When he asked, she blushed and muttered something about somebody called 'blondie'. Something must have motivated her.
"Good morning," came the preppy voice of Levy as she walked up to Night Terror.
Night Terror stared at her in confusion. He looked around thinking that she was talking to somebody else. When he saw nobody else, he cocked his head at her.
"Are you speaking to me, Miss Levy?" he asked.
Levy gave a sheepish smile, "Err…yes. Why wouldn't I."
"Because you have not spoken to me before and every time with interacted you've screamed and ran away from me," Night Terror answer, causing her to cringe.
"Oh, right that," see awkwardly chuckled.
Her expression became solemn, and she let out a sad sigh.
"Night Terror, I'm really sorry how I treated you when we were kids. Jet and Droy told me that you were going to eat me and I stupidly believed them and then there were the nightmares-"
"You really do not have to apologise, Miss Levy," Night Terror interrupted, "I am aware of how overwhelming the Phobos are. You must have been terrified."
"Well, I am not now," Levy said, "Lucy has told me all about you. So maybe we can…start over," she suggested shyly.
Night Terror smiled from under his hood.
"Of course, Miss Levy. Would like to join me for some tea," he offered.
Levy smiled and accepted his invitation.
"You really thought I was going to consume you?" Night Terror asked as he poured her cup.
Levy giggled, "Hey, I was like five," she defended herself.
"I believe you were eight years old at the time," Night Terror corrected.
"Whatever," Levy said, making Night Terror chuckle, "so you not watching the fight?"
"I will. It would be interesting to see Mr Natsu's progress in combat," Night Terror told her, "I have yet to see it properly."
"I know, they haven't fought in a while," Levy said, "although, I have heard from Lucy that he was strong when they were at Everlue's mansion," she told him.
"Mr Everlue," Night Terror repeated, "was he the one with the book collection?", Levy nodded before she took a sip of her tea, "And is that where Lucy retrieved that Timorin text?" he asked calmly.
Levy choked on her tea in surprise. She coughed and slapped her chest to remove the liquid from her airways while Night Terror waited patiently for her to recover.
"H-how did you…" she said through coughs.
"I have seen you study it for a couple of days now. You were not exactly subtle," Night Terror answered earning a groan from Levy.
"But you didn't say anything."
"You looked to be enjoying yourself," he admitted, "may I see it?" he asked politely.
Levy reached into her bag and gave Night Terror the papers. The Phobos quickly read over them and chuckled slightly.
"I see. That makes sense," he told himself, earning an interested look from Levy.
"What does?"
Night Terror peered up from the papers, "This is a Sgeulachd Sìthe or a children's story. It is what we use to teach our young of the Great Fears and their teachings."
"So why did Everlue have it?" Levy asked curiously.
"Sometimes the Phobos send warnings in the form of stories to people who are on the verge of corruption. The stories differ depending on the person they are sending it to. For example, Mr Everlue was sent a story of the dangers of greed. The fact that it is a Sgeulachd Sìthe implies that Mr Everlue was nothing more than a simple child. Obviously, a Phobos was making a joke when they sent this," Night Terror explained.
"That's so cool," Levy gasped, her eyes sparkling in delight.
"Although, this one doesn't look like it was done properly," Night Terror continued with a frown, "this should have been translated and approved by the elders. However, it is not."
Night Terror inspected the paper closely, looking at the calligraphy.
He recognised this handwriting.
Memories, thought to be lost, flashed through Night Terror's mind. They were of a figure writing this text while he stood over it. He could hear mischievous laughter of children echo around his head. He remembered it was a joyful occasion that he once treasured.
But why did he forget.
The sound of cheers from outside the guild snapped Night Terror back into reality. Both he and Levy turned to see that the fight was going to begin.
"Maybe another time," Levy suggested with a smile.
"Yes of course," Night Terror said before handing the papers back to Levy, "If you need any help with translating, please feel free to inquire me."
Levy looked down at the papers and then back up Night Terror.
"Wouldn't it be easier if you translated for me," Levy said.
"Miss Levy, you and I both know that there is no fun in that," he replied as they both made their way outside.
Levy giggled, "Fair enough."
From afar, Mirajane and Lisanna watched the two's interaction. Lisanna looked at her sister's nervously, but was surprised to see that she wasn't looking at them in jealously, but with a determined look.
"Sis?" Lisanna questioned.
"So another one," Mirajane coldly said, "I suppose I have take things up a gear."
Mirajane proceeded to leave the guild, leaving a shocked Lisanna behind.
"...what did she mean by that?" she asked herself as she followed after her.
Outside the Guild
Natsu and Erza faced off each other, surrounded by a large crowd. The entire guild had shown up to show they support and make bets by the time Lucy and Grey had arrived at the scene.
"No way, they're really going through with it," Lucy exclaimed.
"Good morning, Miss Lucy," Night Terror greeted, making Lucy jump at his sudden arrival.
'He's over 6 foot and wearing a black robe. How do I not notice him?' Lucy thought in annoyance.
"Hi Night," she greeted back after recovering from her scare, "are we really going to let them fight?"
"I see no reason why not. It reminds me of when the Kin of the Beast would have their annual fighting tournaments," Night Terror told her, "Although I believe that this fight would not last as long… or as violent...or as bloody."
"But wouldn't this tear our strongest team apart?" Lucy asked, ignoring the last thing he said.
Grey tsked from beside her, "What are you talking about?" Grey lazily asked.
"You, Natsu and Erza are Fairy Tail's strongest team," Lucy answered the Ice Maker wizard.
"Yeah right. What idiot told you that?" Grey mockingly asked.
Mirajane, who was stood behind them, smiled before bursting into tears at what Grey said.
"Oh Mira, I didn't mean it," Grey apologised profusely as Mirajane was being comforted by her sister.
"Nice one, Grey," Lucy sarcastically commented while Night Terror sent a glare at him.
Night Terror turned back to Lucy, "What Mr Grey means to say is that they are not the strongest in the guild. However, Miss Erza may be the strongest female alongside Miss Mirajane, of course," Night Terror explained.
Mirajane instantly perked, "Aw thank you Night," she giggled.
'Another speedy recovery,' Lucy thought. Although she didn't know why their interaction bothered her.
"There are other candidates who may be considered the strongest, however they are not here at the moment," Night Terror continued.
"I see," Lucy said, "do you know consider yourself the strongest?" Lucy asked.
"Certainly not," Night Terror quickly replied, "lest I want to feel Mì-fhortanach's wrath."
'Yes, finally,' Lucy thought eagerly, "Night who is Mì-fhortanach?" she asked trying her best to not sound desperate.
Night Terror was surprised by the question, "Have really not told you about her? She is quite an important figure in the Phobos pantheon."
"Nope," Lucy quickly answered.
"Oh I see. Well she is the-"
"Alright, let get this fight started!" Natsu roared, interrupting Night Terror mid-sentence.
'Damn it, Natsu!' Lucy internally screamed.
"Right," Erza before she requipped into her gold, red and black Fire Empress armour.
"Wow, Erza's taking this seriously if she's using that armour," Lisanna commented as Natsu grinned wildly.
Makarov stood between the two guild members, ready to announce the beginning of the fight.
"Round one, Start!" Makarov declared.
Natsu didn't miss a beat. With his fists engulfed in flames, Natsu aimed a punch at Erza, but she merely dodged and slashed him with her sword. Natsu moved out of the way of her sword and aimed a kick at her.
Taking the opportunity, now that everybody is focusing on the fight, Lucy turned to Night Terror.
"You were saying," she prompted him.
"Of course, my apologise," Night Terror remembered, "Mì-fhortanach is the-"
"STOP!" a squeaky voice announced.
"YOU'VE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME!" Lucy shrieked in anger as she waved her fists angrily.
The whole place fell silent as everybody stared at her. Even Natsu and Erza, who were in the middle of a fight, stared at her outburst. Lucy gave an embarrassed cough and lowered her arms.
"Sorry," she apologised meekly, "I was…really…getting into the fight," she lied.
The person that interrupted, who happened to look like an anthropomorphic frog wearing an official gown, looked at her curiously before turning back to the crowd.
"May I have your attention please. I have come here on behalf of the Magic Council," the frog…person…Magic Council official announced.
The guild members muttered in concern. The Magic Council was a serious organisation that concerns itself in the maintenance of magic and its users. A visit from them is not to be taken lightly.
"As a result of the Eisenweld incident," the official continued, "two members of your guild have been charged with criminal activity. Erza Scarlett, for eleven counts of property damage, and the Night Terror on the disappearance of the mage known as No Name."
Everyone gasped in shock. They were not expecting the Magic Council to not only arrest Erza, but also somebody like Night Terror.
Erza and Night Terror glanced at each other before looking at Makarov who was frowning at the situation.
"Master."
"Maighstir."
"Go on," Makarov reluctantly said, "It's best to go and get this over with."
The two nodded and approached the Magic Council official. It took a while for the official to find a pair of handcuffs big enough for Night Terror's claws, but soon they were both transported to the Magic Councils' HQ.
Everybody silently watched them leave, before they made their way back inside the guild. Only Lucy was left as she looked in the direction her two guild mates had been carried away from.
"Don't you fret now," Makarov's voice said, breaking Lucy out of her thoughts, "they are more than capable of looking after themselves."
Lucy nodded sadly, making Makarov sigh sadly.
"So, you want to know who Mì-fhortanach is," Makarov said making Lucy look at him in surprise.
"You know?"
"Of course, I do," Makarov chuckled, "I've met plenty of Phobos in the past and they always mention the goddess of misfortune."
"A goddess," Lucy repeated in surprise.
"Well, she's not exactly a goddess. I think the term they use is 'dia samhlachail' or symbolic deity. A personification of unluckiness who punish any Phobos for going against their teachings," he explained, "for example, if a Phobos were to brag about their power, they would be punished by being defeated by a lesser enemy."
"I see," Lucy said, "that might explain why I've been so unlucky trying to find out who she was."
Makarov chuckled, "Child, Mì-fhortanach doesn't exist and she certainly doesn't people just because you say her name."
Lisanna suddenly ran through the guild hall doors.
"Master, Natsu is missing. We think he's gone after Erza and Night Terror to fight the Council," she told Makarov.
Makarov's head hung in defeat as Lucy gave him a sympathetic smile.
"Then again," Makarov muttered.
National Council, Fiore Branch
The building that housed the Magic Council was grand and ornate with large columned halls and white marble floors. It looked a bit too showy for an administrative building in Night Terror's opinion, but he had no right to complain.
He and Erza were led down the halls in silence as they were escorted by the Magic Council official to their hearing. He used this opportunity to think of the crime he has been accused of. The Phobos wasn't surprised by the accusation itself, but rather how the Council knew of Henry and his disappearance. Even Eisenwald didn't know who he was.
Something was not right.
They stopped suddenly to see a young man leaning on a column, waiting for them. He had blue hair, fair skin, and an elaborate tattoo over his right eye. Night Terror could sense that he was not present and guessed he was possibly a projection of himself. The man looked up at them lazily with a small smile and nodded at the official for her to leave.
Night Terror had never encountered him before, but Erza gasped, and her eyes widened in shock.
"Siegrain," she muttered, earning a concerned look.
"It has been a while Erza," the man known as Siegrain casually said before turning to Night Terror, "and you must be the Phobos that everybody is talking about."
"How could you tell," Night Terror sarcastically commented, earning a small chuckle from Siegrain.
"I'm only here in spirit," Siegrain told them, "I'm sending this projection from Era. In fact, all the wrinkled faces that courtroom are projections as well. We didn't think it would be necessary to be here for such a trivial matter."
Night Terror frowned in annoyance.
'They dare waste the time of a Phobos and my Clan,' he thought angrily.
"I see," Erza said, "so you're the one who's behind this farce. You make me sick," she spat.
Siegrain approached her, "Let's be civil. I have been a staunch defender of Fairy Tail, but the elders are worried the blame for Clover's destruction will fall into their laps and the only way to avoid that is to place the blame on someone else entirely. You're the scapegoat."
Erza growled and turned fiercely to Siegrain, "Enough," she demanded.
Siegrain chuckled once more and placed grabbed her chin to make her look up at his face.
"And Erza make sure you don't mention you know what. For both our sakes," Siegrain whispered to her.
His hand was grasped by Night Terror's clawed hand and ripped away from her chin. Siegrain turned his attention to the Phobos, briefly wondering how he got out of his handcuffs.
"You dare threaten my fellow clansmen in front of me, Mr Siegrain," Night Terror growled as he tightened his grip, "You are either foolishly brave or bravely foolish."
"Night Terror stop it!" Erza ordered, "he is a member of the Magic Council and part of the hearing."
Night Terror didn't let go and continue to stare down the blue haired man. Siegrain put on a brave face, but Night Terror could see he was become overwhelmed by fear.
"He is nothing but child, Miss Erza. An ignorant, stupid child," Night Terror retorted, his anger starting to rise.
"I SAID STOP IT!" Erza shouted at him, making Night Terror look towards her.
He saw how serious she was and something else in her eyes. Pain? Sadness? What ever it was, Night Terror knew he had to give it up.
Sighing reluctantly, Night Terror turned back to Siegrain.
"Mr Siegrain, have you forgotten that you are a projection. I do not actually have a hold on you," he reminded calmly.
Siegrain looked down at his trapped hand and slid it out of Night Terror grasp.
He chuckled again, "I see that your magic is quite powerful. I had forgotten that you couldn't actually hurt me," he said in amusement.
"Indeed," Night Terror agreed, "My apologies. I am…very protective of my Clan."
"Very noble of you," Siegrain told him, "I am quite interested in your hearing, Night Terror. I have never heard of this 'No Name' but Ultear insisted."
"Ultear?" Night Terror repeated questioningly.
He assumed it was another member of the Council, but why would she be interested.
"I must join my colleagues," Siegrain said as he walked away, "farewell for now."
He then faded away and disappeared from sight, leaving them all behind. They stared at the place where he had gone for a few moments before Night Terror turned to Erza.
"Miss Erza-"
"Save it, Night Terror," Erza sharply interrupted, "we need to focus on our hearings."
Night Terror nodded in understanding. He knew he had angered her and didn't wish to push her anymore and so he stayed silent. Soon enough, the official returned and took Erza to her hearing while Night Terror waited in the hall.
He used this opportunity to think back on the day he has had. How it started of well and then it quickly turned. His mind drifted back to the Sgeulachd Sìthe Levy had shown him.
His memory of the events leading up to fall of the Phobos Clan are hazy. It happened so fast that everything was a blur. However, the memory of the young figure returned to him. He definitely knew them, but why was his mind preventing him from venturing any further.
He snapped out of his thoughts as he sensed Natsu's presence draw nearer.
Night Terror sighed and rolled his eyes.
Outside the Council
Natsu was preparing to storm into the building. His weapons consisted of his rage and an unflattering disguise of Erza, complete with a red wig.
"Alright, don't worry Erza and Night Terror! I'm going to get you guys out of there!" he boldly declared.
That is when a tendril of darkness shot out from the shadows and pulled him into the void.
Back with Night Terror
"One less headache," Night Terror mumbled to himself as he waited for his hearing.
Courtroom
Night Terror stood on a podium facing the entire Council. Siegrain was right about the Council being mostly filled with elderly people with the exception being Siegrain himself and Ultear.
Ultear was a beautiful young woman with long dark purple hair, pale skin, and red eyes. She wore a white sleeveless gown tied with an obi. She looked down at him with a pleasant smile, but Night Terror saw though her façade. He didn't need to use his senses to know that she is a manipulator.
"Can you please state your name and profession," asked an elder with a large beard.
Night Terror tore his eyes away from Ultear, "I am the Night Terror of the deceased Phobos Clan and current member of the Fairy Tail guild."
The elder nodded, "Night Terror you have brought here for questioning on the disappearance of the Eisenwald member known as," he looked down at a piece of parchment and frowned in confusion, "No Name?"
"I believe his real name is Mr Henry McCarty," Night Terror informed, "I have encountered him before for attempted banditry."
The elder hummed and jotted down the details.
"Can you please tell us the events leading up to his disappearance," the elder continued.
Night Terror proceeded to tell them how he was attacked by Henry on the train and how he pursued him to the second floor of train station. Then how he restrained him, but he managed to escape through a window.
"You let him escape," hummed Siegrain as he looked down at the Phobos.
"It was a necessity. The safety of my clansmen were my priority and I decided to not pursue him," Night Terror calmly retorted.
"Are you aware of the motivations behind Mr McCarty actions," asked an elder.
"I am."
"Can you please tell us these motivations?"
"No," Night Terror simply said.
"No?"
"No," he repeated, "it concerns the Phobos Clan to which the Magic Council have no rights to investigate."
The elders frowned and muttered to themselves angrily.
"You are purposely withholding information from the Magic Council," an elder cried arrogantly.
"Indeed," Night Terror confidently confirmed.
"This is an outrage," shouted an elder, "you insult the Council."
"I insult," Night Terror said his voice become cold and deadly, making the elders shiver nervously, "Miss Erza and I have been publicly arrested in front of our Clan and the town of Magnolia, taken to the council, charged with ridiculous crimes, only to be met with a group of blithering projections and given a show trial just because you were embarrassed by a guild. I insult you? I think would find that you insult me, you insult my Clan and you insult yourselves with your fragile egos."
"E-enough!" the elder with a beard shouted as he overcame his fear, "Guards, arrest him and throw him in prison!"
"Unfortunately, you are unable to do that," Night Terror informed.
"And why not!?" the elder shouted.
"He's right," a new voice sighed.
The elders turned to look short elderly man. He had large grey eyebrows and a small moustache. He wore a cap with three bat-like wings poking out at the top which covered his bald head.
"What do you mean Yajima?" an elder asked in confusion.
"Phobos cannot be put on trial by our Council but will have face judgement on the Island of Fear. It is an agreement established by both parties thousands of years ago," Yajima informed, earning gasps from the Council.
"But the Phobos are no more," complained a member.
"Then the authority relies on its last surviving member," Night Terror as he took of his handcuffs and laid on the table in front of him, "and after much consideration, I, the judge and jury, decided that the Night Terror is innocent and free of charges."
The Council began to bicker and shout again. Except for Siegrain and Ultear who seemed rather amused by the turn of events.
"I have no idea where Mr Henry is and with that, I shall take my leave," Night Terror said as he turned to the door, "Good day Magic Council."
"Wait! If you knew you weren't going to be arrested, why did you come here!?" an elder shouted in anger.
Night Terror stopped just before going out the door.
"Out of politeness, but mainly out of pity, Good day," he said before stepping through doors, leaving the shouting Council behind.
Outside the Council Building
Night Terror met Erza in the halls and wordlessly left the building.
Once outside, Night Terror turned to Erza who was looking down at the ground in anger and worry.
"We should ride back. It would be faster," Night Terror told her.
Erza hummed in reply, making him more concerned.
He called up Mabel and Erza immediately mounted the shadow horse. Night Terror was about to follow when he felt a presence from behind.
"Miss Ultear, I presume," Night Terror greeted coldly as he looked at the young woman.
Ultear smiled politely, "Yes and you must be the Night Terror. I am pleased to finally meet you."
"Do you not wish to join your colleagues bickering?"
Ultear giggled, "Not really. I must say I have never seen the Council so flustered in all my career," she admitted.
Erza gave Night Terror an inquisitive look which he ignored.
"Why did you insist on my arrest, Miss Ultear?" Night Terror asked coldly.
"I see you are straight to the point," Ultear commented.
"You have already wasted enough of my time. Forgive me if I seem…reluctant to chat."
Ultear giggled once again, "I see. My apologies. I suppose I was just curious to see the last Phobos in existence."
"I am not an attraction to gawk at, Miss Ultear."
"Of course not, you are just…a person of interest," Ultear countered.
She gasped in surprise when Night Terror suddenly appeared in front of her. They stared at each other competitively. Night Terror looked into her eyes while Ultear stared at void that is his face.
"You may be a projection, Miss Ultear, but a person's eyes hold their true character," Night Terror told her.
"And what do you see?" Ultear challenged, her delicate features hardening.
"Ruthlessness, cruelty, and manipulation," Night Terror answered.
Ultear smiled mockingly, "Oh really?"
"But that's not all," Night Terror continued, making Ultear raise an eyebrow, "I see sadness, betrayal and…"
Night Terror cut himself off making Ultear frown in annoyance.
"And what?" she growled.
Night Terror smiled, "…a chance of redemption."
Silence fell once more as they stared at each other. Night Terror was calm and collective while Ultear glared at him in anger.
"I think your hood is obscuring your vision," Ultear sternly told him.
"I think you would find," Night Terror replied, "that your vision is the one that is obscured, Miss Ultear."
He turned back to where Erza was waiting for him and made his way to them.
"Good day, Miss Ultear," he said as he mounted the horse, "I hope the next time we meet will be on better terms."
At that Night Terror pattered Mabel's neck and both he and Erza rode off back to Magnolia.
Ultear watched them leave, a cold look in her eyes.
"Master was right," she muttered, "he's tricky."
The Guild
Night Terror dispelled his shadow horse and they both walked into the guild. However, once they entered the threshold, he was quite surprised when a group rushed over to him. The group consisted of Lucy, Happy, Lisanna, Mirajane, Grey and Levy. The latter had dragged her reluctant teammates Jet and Droy over
"Night Terror! Erza!" they cried as they surrounded them.
Night Terror was taken back by this as he never been greeted like this before. While Erza remained neutral but gave a small smile.
"Are you alright?" Lucy asked in concern.
"I-I am perfectly fine Mis-"
"Why did they arrest you two?" Levy asked.
"Well-" Erza tried to say.
"Did they torture you for a confession," Mirajane eerily said, "If they did then I'll-"
"No, Miss Mirajane," Night Terror quickly said as he sensed her deadly aura, "they did not."
"Alright everyone, don't pester him with question," Makarov said as he broke through the crowd.
He made his way towards Erza and Night Terror and looked up at them with a serious expression.
"Anything that needs to be reported?" Makarov asked.
"Nothing in particular. It was merely a show trial," Night Terror answered.
Erza nodded plainly in agreement.
Makarov nodded, "Good, I'm glad you are two are alright," he told them with a small smile, "now can you please release Natsu."
"Of course," Night Terror said in remembrance. He forgot he trapped Natsu in the darkness.
Natsu was spat out into the light and, almost instantly, the Fire Dragon Slayer stood up eager to fight.
"ALRIGHT WHERE ARE TH- hey what am I doing back here?" Natsu said in confusion as he looked around the guild.
"Were you seriously going to fight the council," Grey sighed, "how much of idiot can you be."
"WHAT DID YOU SAY!" Natus shouted before another fight kicked off between the two mages.
Night Terror chuckled lightly while Lucy sighed in irritation.
"They never learn," Lucy mumbled as she watched the guild cheer on their fight.
"Night Terror," Erza finally spoke, "can you please forget what happened today," she requested seriously.
Night Terror looked at her before nodding in agreement.
"You have my word," Night Terror told her, "But Miss Erza, please remember there you are not alone. You may not trust me, but there are many others you can trust in," he told her.
Erza frowned and gave a curt nod before leaving him at the door.
Night Terror sighed and made his way to his table. Lucy decided to sit with him, and Night Terror welcomed her.
"So, did it really go alright?" Lucy asked with a frown.
"It was...interesting, but nothing noteworthy," Night Terror answered before glancing at Erza. He was worried about her, but he knew it was not his place to interrogate her.
Perhaps one day.
"Anyway, how is Miss Virgo settling in?" Night Terror asked whilst changing the subject.
Lucy smiled broadly, "I made a contract with her last night and she's doing great," she replied.
"Excellent," Night Terror said with a pleased nod before tilting his head questioningly, "I do not believe I have met your other Spirits. I have been aquatinted with Mr Taurus and Miss Virgo so far."
"Oh right," Lucy said, "well other than Virgo and Taurus I have Aquarius," she winced slightly when she said the spirits name, "Cancer and Plue."
"Plue?" Night Terror asked.
Lucy stood up and took a silver key from her belt.
"OPEN GATE OF THE CANIS MINOR: NIKORIA," Lucy announced before a gate opened up before her and a small spirit came out of it.
It resembled more of a snowman then an actual dog. It had a white body with black eyes and a horned nose that resembled a carrot. It was as tall as a toy doll and seemed to be shivering. It staggered on the table and waved shakily. However, when it laid eyes on Night Terror, it squeaked and ran into Lucy's arms.
"Sorry about that," Lucy apologised to Night Terror with a sheepish smile.
"It is quite alright, Miss Lucy," Night Terror told her.
She turned down to the little spirit in her arms, "Hey, don't be scared. He's really nice," she reassured Plue.
Plue looked up at her before turning to Night Terror. He trembled out of her arms and staggered towards the Phobos. Night Terror lifted his arm out of his robe and offered a metal claw for him to shake. Plue took the claw, causing Lucy to coo happily.
"That's so adorable," she said before Plue began to dance on the table.
Night Terror chuckled, "Quite a lively one," he commented as he watched the spirit dance, "and a better introduction then the one I had with Miss Virgo."
Lucy glanced up at Night Terror when he was distracted watching Plue. She remembered how nervous he seemed when he talked to Virgo. Especially when they talked about how he should punish her.
'Is he shy around women,' she thought, 'I mean it would make sense. Night Terror had never talked about relationships or even what he finds attractive in a woman. Do Phobos have types? Wait why am I thinking about this?' she questioned herself as she blushed.
She glanced at Night Terror once more
'Come on, I'm his friend. It's alright to ask...in a totally platonic way. I mean what's the worst that could happen. I'll just ask him what he finds attractive in a woman, and it would be over. Simple.'
With her mind made up, she confidently turned to him.
"Night Terror," she said catching his attention, "do you find me attractive?"
However, Lucy was a little too confident and an awkward pause fell between them.
...
...
...
...
"I beg your pardon," Night Terror asked as he felt cheeks turn red.
Lucy looked at him with a blank look. It took a while for her to process what she accidentally said, but soon it had dawned on her.
"I'm so sorry!" Lucy cried as she waved her hands and her face had turned completely red, "that was not what I was trying to say! Well, it was but I wasn't supposed to be involved in the question! I meant to ask if you think I'm hot! No! Not me! Women, I meant do you think women are hot! No that's not it either! I meant-"
A tray slammed down on their table, making Lucy stop her apologising rant. They both looked up to see Mirajane smiling pleasantly while she emitted a terrifying aura.
"Sorry for the interruption," Mirajane said in a tone that suggested she was not at all sorry for the interruption, "I've brought you some tea."
"Oh thank you Mira," Lucy said with a sigh in relief.
Mirajane's smile remained, but she glanced at Lucy with a cold look, "Sorry Lucy, I didn't bring you a cup."
Mirajane then took one of the two cups on the tray and threw it over her shoulder where it smashed to pieces.
"Oh..." Lucy stammered, "I see."
Mirajane turned to Night Terror, "Night, are you busy tomorrow?" she asked.
"Err...no, I am not," he answered unsurely.
"Great. I need some help with...with..." she hesitated slightly, "...restocking. Yes, and I need your help with that. If you don't mind," she told him.
"Of course, Miss Mirajane," Night Terror agreed with her request.
Mirajane giggled in delight, "Good, I can't wait," she said blushing slightly.
Lucy, however, slumped in her chair in despair. She pouted as she watched them talk to each other and how she embarrassed herself. Soon though her eyes started to get heavy, and she slumped further in her chair, fast asleep.
Mirajane began to stagger before she too fell unconscious, making Night Terror catch her before her head hit the floor.
Soon the rest of the guild started to fall into a slumber until the only ones who are still awake were Makarov and Night Terror.
They both looked towards the door at the culprit behind this sleeping spell and soon a masked figure walked into the guild. Like Night Terror, all his features were hidden from sight. He wore a blackish blue cape; his arms and legs were bandaged and upon his back were several staffs.
He walked in silently and walked toward the job board. Grabbing a job, he made his way towards Makarov. He showed him the paper and Makarov nodded silently. He turned away and headed to the guild door.
However, he stopped when he passed Night Terror and looked at him plainly.
"Night Terror," he whispered in greeting.
"Mr Mystogan," Night Terror replied with a nod.
Mystogan nodded as well and headed to the door. Once he left through the threshold, the guild started to wake up again.
As they began to groggily complain about Mystogan, Lucy wiped her eyes and sat up in her seat.
"What was that all about?" Lucy asked as she looked around the guild confusion.
"That would be Mr Mystogan," Night Terror informed as he helped Mirajane stand up, "he likes his secrecy."
"Rather like you," Grey muttered as he stood to his feet.
Night Terror turned to him in offence, "At least I do not put people to sleep," he argued.
"No, you just scare them away. Which is equally as creepy," Grey retorted.
Night Terror looked down sheepishly, "I do not mean to," he muttered sadly.
Mirajane, Lucy, Cana, Levy and Lisanna glared at Grey for upsetting Night Terror.
The Ice Maker wizard coughed awkwardly at the looks they gave him.
"So, what does he look like?" Lucy asked.
Grey shrugged, "Master Makarov's the only person here who has seen him."
"That's not true," called out a new voice from above, "I've seen him before."
Everybody looked up to the second balcony and saw a blond haired man grinning down at them. He had short spiky hair, fair skin, and a lightning bolt scar across his right eye. He wore a black and grey furred cloak draped over his shoulders.
"And our fellow Phobos has seen him as well," the man continued as he lazily leaned on the balcony railing.
Night Terror sighed as everybody's attention focused on him.
"Rather unnecessary, Mr Laxus," Night Terror called up to him, earning a grin in reply.
"You've seen him before?" Erza questioned with an inquisitive glare.
"Indeed, his sleep spell has no effect on me," Night Terror informed as he took another sip of his tea.
Natsu growled and shook his fist at him.
"All right, Laxus. You and me right now!" Natsu shouted at him.
Laxus laughed mockingly, "Please, if you can't win against the red head, the why bother."
Erza glowered up at Laxus but fought down the urge to shout back at him.
"Come down and fight me," Natsu provoked, gritting his teeth in annoyance.
"Why don't you come to me, little man," Laxus mocked back.
"With pleasure," Natsu shouted as he attempted climb up to the second floor.
However, a tendril of darkness grabbed on to Natsu's leg and restrained him to the floor. Laxus laughed again as Natsu try to peel of the tendril around his leg.
"Let me go, Night Terror," Natsu demanded as the Phobos calmly sipped his tea.
"You know the rules, Mr Natsu. You are not to gain entry onto the second floor until you have become and S class," Night Terror reminded him, "and do not rise to Mr Laxus' taunts."
Night Terror looked up at Laxus, "Stop acting like a child. You are upsetting the Maighstir," he scolded.
Laxus grinned, "Are you still calling him that? It's Master. MAS-TER. Either speak our language or speak your weird language. It's bad enough you've made the old man call you leanid or whatever,"
Night Terror hummed in annoyance, but before he could respond Makarov interrupted him.
"That's enough Laxus," Makarov told him as he sat at the bar.
Laxus sneered and leaned back off the railing.
"I'm the strongest one here," Laxus declared "and don't you guys forget it."
At that Laxus walked away and out of sight of the entire guild.
Lucy looked around at the frustrated faces of her guildmates. It was clear that this was not the first time that has happened.
"What a jerk," she muttered before she turned to Night Terror.
The Phobos had finished his cup of tea before standing up and grabbing a job from the board.
"Night, are you okay?" Lucy asked in concern.
Night Terror sighed and turned to her, "I am perfectly fine. Mr Laxus is…never mind. I am going to do this job. Have a lovely rest of the day, Miss Lucy."
At that Night Terror turned and made his way out of the guild, leaving behind a worried Lucy.
Streets of Magnolia
It was nearing the end of the day and Night Terror was making his way towards his home. He was pondering what time he should meet Mirajane when he felt a familiar presence.
Night Terror sighed, 'Not this again,' Night Terror thought miserably.
He stopped along the deserted back street and looked over his shoulder.
"Mr Laxus," Night Terror called out.
Laxus didn't brother to stay hidden and casually approached Night Terror from behind. He grinned widely as he was about to lay his hand on Night Terror's shoulder.
"Night Terror, how-"
"I am not interested," Night Terror simply said as side stepped Laxus' hand.
"You have no idea what I'm going to say," Laxus continued, unfazed by the Phobos' denial.
Night Terror turned around and faced the blonde.
"I assume you were going to ask me the same question you have asked me for the past five years," Night Terror deduced
"You'll be correct," Laxus confirmed with a lazy shrug.
"And like all those times, my answer remains the same. I am not interested in joining the Thunder Legion," Night Terror coldly answered before he turned away, "Good evening, Mr Laxus."
However, Laxus was not giving up and started to follow the Phobos.
"Don't be like that," Laxus said, "I heard you went on jobs with other guild members. If you can go a job with that blonde chick-"
Night Terror stopped suddenly and faced Laxus.
"Her Name is Miss Lucy Heartfilia. Not blonde chick," Night Terror growled dangerously, "do not insult her in my presence," he ordered darkly.
Laxus laughed loudly, "Never thought I see the day you care for somebody," Laxus chocked out through laughter.
"I care for everybody, Mr Laxus. That is what it means to be a Phobos," Night Terror sharply informed.
Laxus laughter began to simmer down and soon he was grinning at Night Terror once more.
"But what is this difference? You going on a job with...whatever her name was," Night Terror growled warningly, "and going on a job with the Legion."
"My job with Miss Lucy was to shepherd wolves from harm. You wish to use my Fear magic as a weapon," Night Terror explained.
"A weapon against Dark Guilds, Night Terror. You need to forget those teachings of yours and look at the big picture," Laxus argued.
"Those teachings help maintain balance and bring peace. Using it as a weapon is hubristic and corrupt. That is why I, once again, decline your offer. Good evening, Mr Laxus."
Night Terror turned away once more and this time Laxus didn't follow.
"You're wasting your potential, Night Terror. When are you going to realise that?"
"Send my regards to Mr Freed, Miss Evergreen and Mr Bixlow," Night Terror called out as he turned a corner.
Laxus stood in the empty street, a cocky grin still spread across his face.
"Just you wait, Night Terror," Laxus said to himself, "things are going to change."
I'm really sorry this took a while to write. I've been busy the last few days.
Anyway, hope you enjoyed this chapter. A lot has happened that will be essential later on. I haven't decided whether to go straight into the next arc or do another filler chapter. What do you guys think.
Thanks for reading :)