FairyTail Guild
It had been three months since the events at the Tower of Heaven, and for most of Fairy Tail, life had returned to its usual chaotic normalcy. Missions were taken, rivalries flared, alcohol was drunk and the guild hall was as lively as ever. Yet, for one group of mages; Erza, Natsu, Lucy, Gray, Juvia, and Happy things had changed. They trained harder than ever before, pushing themselves beyond their limits with a newfound intensity. Even during the guild's celebrations, they were noticeably quieter, more focused, and always seemed to have a lingering shadow in their eyes no matter how much of a cheerful front they put on as if they knew about an impending doom that know one else knew about.
Master Makarov observed them with growing concern. He'd seen guild members driven before, but this was different.
One afternoon, He stroked his beard thoughtfully as he watched Natsu sparring with Gray. He would investigate team Erza today, This was the fourth time that day the two rivals had trained together under the guise of fighting each other seriously. Flames roared against ice, each attack more powerful than the last, until an explosive clash sent both flying backward into the guild hall's wall.
"How about we take bets? My jewel's are on Natsu, Winner buys the next round." Cana shouted, lifting her mug out of harm's way as rubble and dust rained down.
"My jewels are on Gray!" Mirajane said behind the bar.
"Nice one, Stripper!! But I'm just getting warmed up!" Natsu shouted, flames igniting around his fists again.
"You're not the only one who's just getting started, flame-brain!" Gray retorted, summoning another icy barrage.
"Those two have really been going at it lately!" Macao said with a drink in his hand.
"Yeah they must really be gunning for S rank to finally stand equal with Erza!" Wakaba replied back a mug in his hand as well.
"That makes sense Maybe they've both taken a liking to her and fight for her love everyday…ahh I remember when I was young!" Macao said stroking his beard before taking another chug of his drink.
"How MANLY! Truly those two are inspirational, nothing empathizes manhood more than fighting over a woman!" ElfMan said with manly tears in his eyes as he watched the brawl.
"Jeez you lot are idiots you got it all wrong! Salamander wouldn't know about love even if it hit him in the face and Popsicle's too in his head about Juvia to even think about Erza!" Gajeel said jeering at the group of his fellow guild mates gathering to watch Gray and Natsu's duel. "They're training like their lives depend on it though, makes me want to test my iron!"
"Gray-sama thinks about Juvia truly!!" Juvia said appearing from behind a random pillar that she was using to stalk-watch her love. The water mage held her hands together clutching where her heart would be beneath large breasts and squeezing herself with excitement, two hearts formed over her eyes and steam began to flow from her nostrils as the blue haired femme fatale began to fantasize over her crush.
Nearby, Happy floated with a fish in his mouth, watching the spar with a mixture of pride. "Aye, Natsu's been training so hard, he's even stopped napping as much. Believe or not I've even started to train after seeing that damn bird…." Happy said out loud trailing off towards the end as he envision himself fifteen feet taller with even bigger wings carrying all of team Erza on his back as he flew breathing fire roasting a giant fish in his hands.
The fight reignited again as Natsu lunged first, flames erupting around his fists. He aimed a fiery uppercut at Gray, who slid back effortlessly on an icy path he conjured beneath his feet. The flames roared harmlessly past Gray's face, singeing a few stray hairs.
"Too slow," Gray quipped, forming an icy spear. He hurled it at Natsu, who ducked and countered with a blast of fire that melted the projectile midair. Steam filled the room, clouding their surroundings.
"You're not getting away that easy!" Natsu roared, charging through the mist.
The two clashed, their attacks colliding in a flurry of fire and ice. Natsu's punches were wild but powerful, each one leaving scorch marks on the wooden floor. Gray, on the other hand, moved with calculated precision, using the icy terrain he created to stay a step ahead.
Natsu, now grinning ear to ear, leapt into the air and unleashed a Fire Dragon's Roar, the searing flames rushing toward Gray. Gray countered with an Ice-Make: Wall, the flames crashing against the frosty barrier, creating a hiss of steam that blanketed the room destroying tables and glasses from the force of the impacts.
"Not bad," Gray admitted, his hands already forming another spell. "But you're wide open."
With a flick of his wrist, Gray sent ice creeping across the floor. It snagged Natsu's feet, freezing him in place.
"Gotcha!" Gray said, smirking.
But Natsu only grinned wider. "Not for long!" Flames erupted from his feet, shattering the ice and propelling him forward like a rocket. He tackled Gray to the ground, pinning him.
"Ha! Guess I win this round!" Natsu declared triumphantly.
Gray, unfazed, smirked back. "Don't get cocky." With a burst of magic, he created a small ice explosion, sending Natsu flying backward into a pile of chairs.
The fight continued for another few minutes until both mages stood, breathing heavily with bruises and bleeding but still grinning. Their sparring had left scorch marks, icy patches, and general destruction across the guild hall. Around them, the other guild members watched with varying degrees of amusement and exasperation.
"You've gotten stronger," Gray admitted, brushing some frost off his shoulder.
Natsu rubbed the back of his head, flames still flickering around his hands. "Yeah, well, you're not too bad yourself, Popsicle if we run into him again we'll be ready."
"Yeah!" Gray said cooly "another round?"
Makarov raised an eyebrow. The change in their behavior since the Tower of Heaven mission had nagged at him for months. He needed answers, and if anyone was likely to spill the beans, it was Natsu and Happy, but before he could get answers he needed to stop these two polar opposites from destroying his guild hall.
With a two thunderous booms two giants arms grounded the two young adult mages into the wooden ground of the guild both moaned in pain.
"What the hell gramps!?" Natsu yelled from the ground.
"Yeah c'mon master what we do this time!"
"LOOK AT THE MESS YOU TWO MADE MY POOR GUILD!!! IF YOU'RE GOING TO USE OFFENSIVE MAGIC DO IT IN THE DAMN TRAINING GROUNDS!!" Makarov yelled releasing the two from his fists after his rant before he jumped up onto the bar counter sitting down in his usual spot in front of Mira. Mirajane a expert at her side craft, already had a mug placed in his hands. The alcohol quickly took effect easing the masters tension over the dueling boys so much so that he leaned back into the soft chest of Fairytails favorite bartender.
"Master!!" Mirajane said with a blush and knowing smirk at his antics.
The next day, Makarov summoned Natsu and Happy to his office. The small room was cluttered as always, with stacks of old books, scrolls, and magical trinkets scattered everywhere. However the moment they entered, Natsu and Happy's attention zeroed in on what Makarov held in each hand.
In one, a tray of grilled fish sat, steaming and golden-brown. The aroma of perfectly cooked fish wafted through the room, making Happy's wings flutter uncontrollably. In his other hand, a blazing orb of magical flames hovered, its vibrant reds and oranges pulsing with warmth.
Makarov grinned mischievously. "Ah, there you are, boys! I've prepared some rare delicacies for you." He raised the fish tray slightly. "This, my dear Happy, is no ordinary fish—it's a rare, exquisite catfish from the southern waters of Fiore. Difficult to catch and even harder to cook just right."
Happy's tail wagged furiously, and he wiped drool from his mouth. "A rare… catfish?!" He shivered, conflicted. "It's taboo for a cat to eat a catfish… but it smells so good…"
Makarov chuckled to himself not wanting to correct the young exceed's thought process about where catfish came from, before raising his other hand, letting the flames crackle enticingly. "And for you, Natsu, these are the most flavorful magical flames in all of Fiore or so I hear. The Emberwinds of Mount Kyrios. A flame that's said to be both spicy and sweet, leaving a taste so satisfying it's impossible to describe."
Natsu's jaw dropped, drool pooling at the corner of his mouth. "Spicy… and sweet? I gotta—" He shook his head, snapping out of it. "Wait! What do you want, old man you're not fooling me normally you don't want me all fired up what gives?"
'Whew almost thought he would ask how anyone else besides him would know how flames taste like…' Makarov sweatdropped slightly before regaining his composure.
"Oh, nothing too complicated." Makarov's grin widened, his tone disarmingly casual. "Just tell me about what really happened at the Tower of Heaven, and these rare treats are yours. All yours."
Natsu froze, his expression immediately guarded. "Wha—nothing happened! Just a regular mission! Right, Happy?"
"Uh-huh!" Happy nodded furiously, but his eyes stayed glued to the fish. His wings fluttered more, and his mouth quivered. "A cat that's turned into a fish… I shouldn't… I can't… But it looks so good…"
The room fell silent for a moment, the tension thick as both Natsu and Happy tried to resist the temptation in front of them. Makarov waved the fish tray slightly closer to Happy, the enticing aroma wafting upward. The Exceed's resolve broke.
"Okay, okay!" Happy squealed. "I'll talk!"
"Happy!" Natsu snapped, glaring at him. "You're gonna sell us out for a fish?! Erza's gonna kill us!"
"It's worth it!" Happy mumbled blissfully, floating toward the tray like he was in a dream. Makarov handed him a piece of the fish, and Happy sank his teeth into it with a delighted hum, his eyes sparkling as he savored the bite.
"Now," Makarov said, setting the tray aside and leaning forward. "Let's hear it."
Happy, still chewing, pointed toward Natsu. "Natsu can explain it better—he saw everything!"
"WHAT?! Don't put this on me!" Natsu yelled, waving his arms furiously. "You're the one who caved first!"
"Keep arguing, and I'll take the flames back," Makarov said coolly, holding up the orb of fire.
Natsu froze mid-yell, his gaze snapping back to the flames. He grumbled under his breath, crossing his arms. "Fine… but only because Happy caved first it's not like I want the flames…. That much! And Gramps You didn't hear this from me, okay?"
Makarov nodded sagely. "Of course. My lips are sealed."
Taking a deep breath, Natsu began to recount the events at the Tower of Heaven. He explained how they'd been overwhelmed, how Jellal had nearly killed them, and how, at the darkest moment, a red-haired man had appeared. "He looked just like Erza," Natsu said, his tone serious. "At first, we thought he was there to help, and he did save us but he was brutal about it!" He hesitated, rubbing the back of his neck.
Happy, having finished his fish, nodded solemnly. "Yeah, and that's when we found out he's not just Erza's brother. He's Pain—the leader of the Akatsuki. The scary guild everyone talks about!"
Makarov's eyes narrowed, his expression darkening. "So it's true…"
"Yeah," Natsu muttered. "And before he left, he told Erza to join him. He wants to destroy everything—the slavers, corrupt leaders, even the Magic Council."
"And Erza?" Makarov asked quietly.
Natsu's voice softened. "She begged him to join Fairy Tail instead. But he refused. Said our way wasn't enough."
Makarov leaned back, the weight of the revelation settling over him. "I see. Thank you, Natsu. I'll handle this from here."
Natsu blinked. "Wait, you're not mad?"
"Oh, I'm furious," Makarov replied, though his tone remained calm. "But not with you. Now, here—" He extended the blazing flames toward Natsu. "Take these. I'm tired of holding them."
Natsu's face lit up. "Really?! Don't mind if I do!" He leaped forward like a dog lunging for a treat, swallowing the flames in a single gulp. His body glowed momentarily as the energy coursed through him, and he let out a fiery belch. "Whoa! Those really are spicy and sweet!"
Makarov chuckled, though his expression quickly turned serious again. "Now, not a word of this to anyone else. Understand?"
"Got it," Natsu said, wiping his mouth. "Good luck dealing with Erza, though. She's gonna be pissed."
Makarov sighed deeply. "Oh, I'm well aware. Now get out of here before she finds out you talked."
Happy floated out of the room in a blissful daze, still savoring the fish. "Totally worth it…"
That evening, Makarov found Erza sitting alone at a quiet table in the guild hall, polishing her sword with a far off look. She looked up as he approached, her expression softening. "Master."
Makarov pulled out a chair across from her and sat down, his gaze gentle but firm. "Erza. We need to talk let us go to my office."
The duo walked together Erza careful not to overstep her strides as she followed behind her diminutive Guild leader. After a few moments they entered his office and closed his wooden door before taking their respective seats before Makarov's desk.
Erza's brow furrowed. "Is something wrong, Master?"
"You tell me," Makarov replied, folding his hands on the table. "It's been three months since that mission to the Tower of Heaven, and ever since, you and your team have run yourselves ragged. You've trained harder than ever, but none of you will say why. Today, I found out you've been keeping something from me—something important."
Erza stiffened, her eyes darting away. "Master, I—"
"I know about Nagato," Makarov said simply, cutting her off.
Her shoulders tensed, and she bowed her head her beautiful face turning red in anger "Natsu!!!!" She said tone meaning death somewhere in the guild both Happy and Natsu yelped and began shaking in fear, much to the confusion of their guild mates around them.
"He didn't mean any harm," Makarov assured her. "But I need to hear it from you. Why didn't you tell me? Are we not close enough for me to know what troubles you the most, have I not done enough to earn your trust my dear?"
Erza's hands trembled as she gripped her sword tightly. She tried to speak, but her voice faltered. Finally, she whispered, "No master not at all I should've told you I know you mean well I just I don't know"
"Just start by telling me everything I promise to listen and save my words for after you are done." Makarov said a caring grandfatherly look was upon his face.
"At first… it felt like a dream come true." The beautiful redhead said in a low voice chalked with emotion.
Makarov remained silent, giving her the space to continue. Tears welled in Erza's eyes as her voice grew stronger, though it wavered with emotion. "When I was a slave, my one dream was for Nagato to find me, to save me, to take me away from that nightmare. And at the Tower, he did just that. He was stronger than I ever imagined, fighting Jellal and protecting us when we had no hope. For a moment, it felt like all my pain had been worth it. My brother had come back."
Her voice broke as tears streamed down her face. "But that dream… slowly turned into a nightmare. He fought Jellal with a cruelty I had never seen. He tortured him, Master. He didn't just want to win—he wanted to make him suffer. And that's when I realized…" She looked up, her voice barely above a whisper. "Nagato wasn't the brother I remembered. He was Pain—the leader of the Akatsuki."
Makarov's expression darkened, but he said nothing, letting her continue.
"After the Tower exploded, and we somehow survived, Nagato asked me to join his guild. He told me his goal was to destroy the systems that allowed our suffering—to end slavers, corrupt leaders, and everyone who turns a blind eye to it." She shook her head, her tears falling freely now. "I begged him to come with me, to join Fairy Tail, to fight for change together. But he refused. He said he couldn't trust the system and that my way wasn't enough."
She buried her face in her hands, her voice breaking into a sob. "I didn't know what to do, Master. I couldn't stop him. I couldn't save him I wasn't strong enough to make a difference at all, and now… now I feel like I've failed him, and myself."
The rest of the guild, who had been attempting (and failing) to eavesdrop discreetly, suddenly lost all subtlety. The door creaked open from their weight leaning against it, heads popped around corners of the now accidentally cracked open door, and whispers filled the air.
"Did you hear that? Erza's got a twin brother?!" one mage whispered.
"And he's stronger than her?!" another added, wide-eyed.
"Quiet, you idiots!" Lucy hissed, glaring at the group. "Give Erza some privacy before I summon Aquarius on your asses!"
Makarov glanced over his shoulder with an annoyed sigh, his gaze sharp. "If you've got time to gossip, you've got time to train or take a job for Pete sakes…. I'm talking to you Nab!"
Nab the big brown skinned man in native clothing wasn't even by his master's office to eavesdrop but still was called out. The towering man let out a sigh and a sweat drop as he continued to browse the guilds job board for the perfect job, he'd show them all one day.
The guild immediately scattered, though murmurs of "Erza's twin" and "Akatsuki" lingered in the background.
Makarov turned back to Erza, his gaze softening. "Erza, you haven't failed. Nagato may have chosen a dark path, but he's still alive. As long as he's alive, there's hope. And I know you—you'll never stop fighting for the people you love."
Erza wiped her tears, nodding slowly. "Thank you, Master. I… I won't give up on him."
Makarov placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Good. But remember this—you're not alone. Whatever comes next, Fairy Tail will stand with you because we are your family!"
For the first time in months, Erza seemed to relax like a weight had been taken off her shoulders and she smiled. "Yes, Master."
Neutral location close to intersecting border of five hidden nations and Fiore
In a grand chamber adorned with intricate carvings and banners from both the Magic Council and the Five Great Nations, tensions ran high. The leaders of Fiore's Magic Council and the five powerful Hidden Nations had gathered to discuss the Tower of Heaven incident—a disaster that had far-reaching implications beyond the borders of Fiore. The room's air was thick with formality and restrained hostility, each side watching the other with careful consideration.
Eldric Faustus, the elder head of the council, sat at the table's apex. His silver beard and sharp blue eyes gave him the air of a sage, his reputation built on decades of unwavering dedication to Fiore's stability. His stoic demeanor radiated no-nonsense authority, and the faint tap of his fingers against the table suggested his patience, though vast, had its limits.
To his right sat Selene Argenta, a striking woman with sleek black hair and piercing green eyes. Known for her sharp tongue and sharper mind, she was the council's chief strategist. Selene had built her reputation by turning impossible scenarios into victories through sheer cunning, and her calculating gaze swept the room like a predator assessing its prey.
Next to her was Kael Drayton, the council's youngest member. Barely thirty, his neatly trimmed beard and thoughtful expression exuded a calm maturity that belied his age. Kael was a pragmatist and a diplomat, often the first to suggest compromise when tempers flared. Despite his youth, he had gained the trust of his peers by finding common ground even in the most heated debates.
Across from him sat Lysara Velion, a quiet but commanding presence. Her flowing robes, embroidered with ancient symbols, reflected her background as a historian before entering politics. Her voice was soft, yet her words carried the weight of knowledge, often grounding discussions in logic and historical context. Though not one to speak often, when she did, the room listened.
On Lysara's left sat Mira Solenna, her fiery red hair matching the intensity of her personality. Ambitious and outspoken, Mira often clashed with Selene, their heated exchanges becoming infamous among the council. She leaned forward in her chair, her hands pressed flat against the table, already ready to argue if necessary.
Next to Mira was Ravon Thalmar, a towering man with a grizzled beard and a scar running across his cheek. His military background was evident in his blunt speech and unyielding stance on security matters. His sheer physical presence alone could silence a room, though his peers often found his militaristic views too rigid.
Finally, Anya Mereth completed the circle. Her gentle smile and soft-spoken demeanor were in stark contrast to the tension radiating from the others. Known as the council's empathetic mediator, Anya had a talent for de-escalating conflicts before they spiraled. Her golden hair framed her face like a halo, and her warm brown eyes reflected an unwavering belief in unity.
On the opposite side of the chamber sat the five Kage, the leaders of the Great Hidden Nations. Their presence was equally formidable, a blend of contrasting personalities and immense power.
At the center of the Kage was Tsunade, the Hokage of the Land of Fire. Her blonde hair fell over her shoulders in loose waves, her grey v neck shirt underneath her green robes revealed a bosom that rivaled many in Earthland and her piercing amber eyes gleamed with both wisdom and frustration. A half-empty bottle of sake rested within arm's reach, a clear sign of her hatred for diplomacy having to be tipsy to even sit through these kinds of meetings. Though her sharp tongue often clashed with her counterparts, her reputation as a legendary warrior and healer preceded her.
To her right sat A, the Raikage of the Land of Lightning, a towering, muscle-bound man with dark skin and a perpetual scowl. His deep, booming voice could silence a room in an instant, and his intensity was matched only by his impatience. Every movement he made seemed to vibrate with barely restrained energy, as if diplomacy was an unwelcome interruption to the battles he preferred.
On the opposite end of the table sat Ohnoki, the Tsuchikage of the Land of Earth. Despite his small stature and aged appearance, his sharp eyes and large, hooked nose betrayed a cunning mind. He leaned back in his chair with a knowing smirk, his diminutive frame radiating authority that demanded respect, even from those twice his size.
To Ohnoki's left was Mei Terumi, the Mizukage of the Land of Water. Her long red hair fell in elegant waves down her back, and her emerald eyes sparkled with intelligence and charm. Mei's disarming smile often concealed her sharp instincts and deadly magic. Clad in flowing robes that accentuated her bust and the thickness of her hips, she spoke with a soft voice that carried hidden steel.
Lastly, there was Gaara, the Kazekage of the Land of Wind. At only seventeen, he was by far the youngest among the group. His crimson hair stood out sharply against his pale skin, and his calm turquoise eyes gave him an otherworldly presence. Though he was quiet, his words carried the weight of someone who had already faced countless battles and hardships. Despite his youth, Gaara's composed demeanor often put even the most experienced leaders at ease—or on edge.
The room seemed to shift under the weight of these figures, each leader carrying the hopes and fears of their nations on their shoulders. Though they had gathered under the banner of diplomacy, the undercurrent of tension was unmistakable. As Eldric Faustus cleared his throat to begin the discussion, all eyes turned toward him, and the battle of words commenced.
Eldric Faustus, the elder head of the Magic Council, began with his usual measured tone. "We are here to address the aftermath of the Tower of Heaven incident and to discuss how we might strengthen our mutual interests in maintaining peace."
Ohnoki chuckled dryly, leaning back in his chair. "Peace? Lucky for you that your weapon malfunction if that's what really happened, occurred on a worthless little island in your lands and not ours. If it had been in the Hidden Stone Nation, this wouldn't be a meeting—it'd be a declaration of war."
"I agree," said A, his voice booming. "Fiore's recklessness nearly caused a disaster. Imagine if that magic explosion had crossed into my borders—there'd be no room for talks."
Tsunade sighed, twirling her sake bottle lazily. "As much as I hate to side with these loudmouths, they're not wrong. If something like that had happened in the Hidden Leaf Nation, our response would've been… less diplomatic."
Gaara, seated calmly, interjected with a steady tone. "Thankfully, it did not. But my elders would not have viewed such an accident kindly if it had happened on our sands. You're fortunate this time, Magic Council."
Mei smiled gently, though her words carried an edge. "I agree with my esteemed colleagues. If that explosion had reached the Hidden Water Nation, we would've been forced to respond. Such actions destabilize all of us."
Selene Argenta, the Magic Council's strategist, met their sharp words with her own. "The destruction of the Tower of Heaven was not an act of aggression but an unfortunate necessity to contain a dangerous threat."
"And yet," Ohnoki interrupted with a smirk, "this 'unfortunate necessity' conveniently demonstrated the power of your weapons. Now the world mainly Alvarez knows about them and their capabilities even more now compared to the last time it was used against them, they could prepare a counter for it!"
Kael Drayton, ever the diplomat, leaned forward. "We are confident there is nothing in the known magical world that can stand up to Etherion!
We regret the unintended consequences, but let's not let one incident overshadow the progress we've made towards our alliance."
The focus shifted, but tensions remained high. Tsunade leaned back in her chair her large cleavage threatening to pop out of her robes as she did so, her sharp eyes scanning the room. "We've all heard this song before. Peace, unity, collaboration it's nice talk, but I know better. 'Coming together' is just fancy language for Fiore wanting to assimilate the Five Nations, especially now that Alvarez looms on the horizon."
"A bold assumption," Ravon Thalmar, the Magic Council's militarist, replied with a pointed glare. "Perhaps if your mages took a more strategic approach to missions, you wouldn't feel so threatened."
"We would need many talks between the Kage to even consider such unity," Tsunade continued, brushing off Ravon's remark. "And unlike the truce between our nations and Fiore, our nations do not have truces with one another yet. Perhaps by the end of my reign, that will change."
"When your nation stops hogging all the good missions!" A interjected, slamming a fist on the table.
Tsunade's amber eyes glinted as she side-eyed him. "It's not our fault our mages are viewed in a more favorable light than yours."
The Raikage's nostrils flared, but before he could retort, Gaara spoke again, his voice calm. "I believe it will happen, Hokage. Our nations are close to true partnership, we will be the example the other nations follow."
Tsunade smirked. "You see? The youth understands."
Ohnoki scoffed, waving a hand dismissively. "Yeah, right. He's just wet behind the ears. I doubt he'll last more than four years as Kazekage before a new one's put in. His words hold no weight with me yet."
Gaara's black raccoon like eyeliner eyes narrowed as he released a decent portion of killing intent towards the old and small kage. Who chuckled as the wave of intent washed over him.
"So you do have a back bone good…maybe you'll last longer than I thought boy." Ohnoki said with a smirk.
Mei's melodic laugh cut through the tension as she watched the event unfold. "Perhaps I'll follow our most handsome and young friend here, Lady Hokage. My representatives will reach out to yours to begin discussing what a partnership between our nations might look like."
Ohnoki and A groaned simultaneously, their irritation clear before giving each other a sideways glance. They too would have to think about alliances if the other three nations were cozying up to one another like this.
Eldric Faustus, who had remained silent through the argument, raised a hand. His deep voice silenced the room. "Enough. We are here to maintain peace, not to squabble over petty grievances. Let us turn our attention to the threat that looms closest-the dark guild that hunts other dark guilds the Akatsuki."
The leaders settled into their chairs, the tension easing slightly. As the discussion shifted to the rise of Pain and his group, a fragile unity began to form. Though differences remained, it was clear that their survival would depend on cooperation—however reluctant it might be.
The chamber grew heavier as the conversation turned to the Akatsuki. The Magic Council's members exchanged uneasy glances, their earlier composure fading. On the other side of the table, the Kage of the Five Hidden Nations leaned back in their seats, their expressions ranging from mild interest to outright skepticism.
Eldric Faustus, the head of the Magic Council, took a deep breath, his voice calm but laden with gravity. "The rise of the Akatsuki cannot be ignored. They've dismantled over a dozen dark guilds, including some that even we deemed untouchable. Their methods are brutal—slavers and human traffickers found mutilated, their bases turned to ash."
Selene Argenta leaned forward, her emerald eyes narrowing. "These are not simple rogue mages. Their precision, their ruthlessness—it speaks of an organization with a clear and dangerous purpose."
For a moment, the Kage appeared unimpressed. Tsunade was the first to speak, her amber eyes sharp but indifferent. "So they're taking out the trash. I fail to see the issue. Slavers and dark guilds deserve their fate."
Mei Terumi, the Mizukage, nodded, her disarming smile in place. "If anything, they're doing the magic world a favor. We could use fewer scum like that."
"Agreed," A, the Raikage, rumbled, his deep voice reverberating through the room. "What's the fuss about? If they're cleaning house, let them."
Ohnoki chuckled, his large nose wrinkling as he smirked. "If you're here to ask us to fight them because they're killing slavers, I suggest we end this meeting now. Slavers don't deserve mercy."
Kael Drayton, the pragmatic younger council member, sighed. "This isn't just about slavers. The Akatsuki's ambitions go far beyond dark guilds and human traffickers."
The room quieted as Kael's words lingered. Eldric Faustus took the opportunity to drive the point home. "Their leader, Pain, has made his ultimate goal clear. He aims to dismantle the systems that allow such corruption to exist. That includes governments, yours, ours—anyone who turns a blind eye or lines their pockets."
The Kage exchanged uneasy glances. Gaara, the Kazekage, was the first to break the silence. "He plans to overthrow those in power?"
Lysara Velion, the historian of the council, nodded. "Exactly. Rightfully or not, Pain views all leaders as complicit in the suffering of the weak. He believes the only way to create peace is through destruction and rebuilding—by force."
Ohnoki scoffed, crossing his arms. "Bah! Let him try. What can one guild do against a nation?"
Ravon Thalmar, the council's militarist, leaned forward, his voice grave. "Reports suggest that the Akatsuki is no ordinary guild. Pain has recruited S- and SS-ranked mages—mages capable of wiping out entire cities. Some reports even claim they rival the Spriggan 12 of Alvarez."
That got their attention. Mei's emerald eyes flickered with curiosity. "The Spriggan 12?"
Kael nodded. "Or at least, if not on par with the Spriggan, they're certainly powerful enough to rival the 10 Wizard Saints and even you five Kage. If these rumors are true, each of them is a city-to-country level mage."
The weight of that revelation settled over the room. Even the Raikage, usually dismissive of such claims, frowned. "If that's true, they pose a real threat."
Amidst the hushed murmurs of the chamber, Anya Mereth, the Magic Council's calm mediator, cleared her throat. Her voice, gentle yet resolute, cut through the tension. "If the Akatsuki truly intends to target governments, we must prepare. A preemptive plan to counter their strength would be prudent."
The room quieted, all eyes turning to Anya. Beside her, Selene Argenta leaned forward, resting her chin on her interlocked fingers. "You mean a task force," she stated, her tone sharp.
Anya inclined her head slightly, her golden hair catching the glow of the enchanted crystals above. "Precisely. A specialized team of the strongest mages from our nations. A force capable of standing against them when they inevitably turn their attention from dark guilds to what they perceive as corrupt governments."
Mei Terumi, the Mizukage, smiled, her crimson hair flowing elegantly over her shoulders. "An interesting idea. The Hidden Mist Nation will gladly send a mage to assist. I think we can afford to lend our strength for such a worthy cause."
Gaara, the Kazekage, nodded in agreement. His calm, steady voice carried across the room. "The Hidden Sand Nation will also contribute. This threat requires unity, regardless of past differences."
Ohnoki, the Tsuchikage, grumbled under his breath. "Fine. The Hidden Stone Nation will provide one as well. If this is necessary, we won't stand idle."
Tsunade, the Hokage, took a sip of her sake and set the bottle down with a deliberate motion. "Make that the Hidden Leaf Nation too. Though I admit, I'd like to see just how strong these Akatsuki mages really are before we jump to conclusions."
The Raikage cracked his knuckles, a booming chuckle escaping his lips. "Count the Hidden lightning Nation in as well. If they're looking for a fight, they'll find one."
Eldric Faustus raised his hand, silencing the growing energy in the room. His commanding voice echoed. "Your contributions are appreciated and they most definitely will help, but there is another piece to this plan that must be addressed."
The Kage and the council members exchanged curious glances. It was Ravon Thalmar, the council's militaristic figure, who broke the silence. "We will also be sending a mage undercover to infiltrate the Akatsuki. Their mission will be to gauge Pain's strength and that of his followers. We need to understand what we're truly up against."
Tsunade's sharp amber eyes narrowed. "Infiltration? That's easier said than done. Pain doesn't seem like the type to hire many lackeys. How do you plan to get someone inside?"
Selene allowed herself a small smirk. "That's exactly why it will work, Hokage. Pain doesn't recruit weaklings or cowards. He respects strength, and our chosen mage has more than enough to earn his interest."
Mei leaned forward, her emerald eyes glinting with curiosity. "Oh? And who is this mystery mage you're so confident will catch Pain's eye?"
Eldric waved his hand, and a glowing screen shimmered into existence above the table. It displayed the image of a man with striking white hair, a playful grin, and a pair of impossibly dark sunglasses covering his eyes. Beneath the image, lines of text scrolled, listing his magical accomplishments: mastery of spatial and barrier magic, tactical brilliance, and an uncanny ability to neutralize opponents of overwhelming power.
"This," Eldric announced, "Chosen one as he goes by is currently on a 50-year quest, but he will be recalled for this mission."
Gaara studied the image, his turquoise eyes narrowing slightly. "He looks… formidable."
Mei smiled slyly, tilting her head. "Formidable and handsome. I wouldn't mind getting him alone to… strategize."
The Raikage rolled his eyes, muttering under his breath, "Focus, Mizukage."
Selene spoke next, her tone even but serious. "This mage's abilities are not public knowledge. For more than a decade, he has worked undercover for the Magic Council, dismantling dark guilds from within and being sent on classified missions. His reputation as the 'Chosen One' is whispered in certain circles, but his identity remains unknown to the wider world."
Tsunade leaned back in her chair, folding her arms. "And you think Pain will recruit him?"
Kael Drayton, the youngest member of the council, nodded thoughtfully. "We're confident. Pain is no coward, nor is he the type to shy away from a challenge. If this mage positions himself as a rival, Pain's curiosity will do the rest. He will want to test him, perhaps even recruit him."
Ohnoki snorted. "So, you're banking on the leader of a rogue guild just wanting to add a powerful mage to his ranks? What if Pain sees him as a threat and destroys him on the spot?"
"That," Ravon said, his deep voice cutting through the room, "is a risk we're willing to take. But we've chosen this mage for a reason. His magic isn't just about strength—it's strategic. His spatial abilities make him uniquely suited to escape if things go wrong."
Anya Mereth added softly, "And let's not forget: Pain respects power. He doesn't recruit subordinates; he builds alliances with those he deems his equals."
Gaara nodded slowly. "It's a sound plan. This mage could provide us with the insight we need to stop the Akatsuki before they grow too powerful."
Mei's playful smile widened. "This is getting interesting. I approve."
Tsunade raised an eyebrow. "I'm not against it, but I want regular updates on the mage's progress. If he gets too close to Pain's ideology, we could end up creating a bigger problem than we started with."
Ohnoki grumbled, scratching his chin. "Bah. Fine. But if this mage fails, I hope you have a backup plan."
Kael turned to the Kage, his voice calm and steady. "Then let's discuss how to bring the "chosen one" to Pain's attention. We need him to appear as a rising threat—someone too strong to ignore but not so overt as to make Pain suspicious."
Mei tapped her chin thoughtfully. "We could engineer a series of high-profile missions where he eliminates key Akatsuki targets. If he disrupts their plans and gains their attention, Pain will have no choice but to investigate."
Selene nodded. "That would also allow us to test the waters. If he struggles against any Akatsuki member, we'll know their strength before engaging them directly."
Eldric Faustus leaned back in his chair, his expression grim but resolute. "This is our best chance to counter the Akatsuki before they become unstoppable. If we fail to act now, the consequences could be catastrophic."
The room fell silent, each leader contemplating the growing gravity of the situation. One truth was certain the Akatsuki was,a storm gathering on the horizon, and they would need all their strength and cunning to weather it.
Akatsuki guild hall- rain nation
Nagato sat at a table in the heart of the Akatsuki's guild, the redheaded mage was in a chamber, casted in the light of lacrima lamps, looking over a table littered with maps, scrolls, and diagrams. His twin Rinnegan eyes glowed faintly in the dim light, locked onto the intricate web of connections he had uncovered. The Tower of Heaven, Grimoire Heart, resurrecting Zeref— over the last three months he had been finding out their roles in his and Erza's separation as children. His twin sister had been taken from him, enslaved, and forced into a life of suffering by underlings who served the dark guild Grimoire Heart, all for the purpose of resurrecting that foul dark mage Zeref.
And now, after destroying that cursed tower and his and Erza's brief reunion after he had saved her, she had refused to join his cause, leaving a void within him that no plan or strategy could fill one though he tried to hide, he theorized the others in his guild who paid him the most attention, could realize he had more on his mind than his usual goals for the world, based on how they had been acting recently.
Nagato sighed rubbing a hand through his long red hair. There was no time to dwell on that wound. His plans to use the Gedo Statue to contain the Tailed Beasts were nearing completion, and Grimoire Heart's involvement in trying to resurrect Zeref and their actions against his family demanded his attention.
The atmosphere in the room was heavy with his focused silence until the sound of bickering broke through. His two subordinates that were his most loyal besides Konan had found their way into his map room and seemed to be in a deep conversation about his sister.
"Should I kill her entire guild, for Pain-sama? Surely then she would join him!" Desire's voice, silken and cruel, carried through the chamber. The winged demoness stood with one hand on her hip, her golden eyes gleaming with malice as her black wings shifted lazily behind her.
"You idiot," Lust snapped, her tone sharp and scornful. She stepped forward, her long black dress sweeping the floor as she glared at her sister. "That would make her hate him to death. You know how humans value their comrades, sister."
Desire rolled her eyes, the golden light of her gaze narrowing. "Tch. Humans are weak, sentimental creatures. If they didn't cling to such pathetic bonds, they wouldn't suffer so much. Besides, if she hates him enough, she'll stop being a distraction."
Lust's lips curled into a condescending smirk. "You're as short-sighted as ever, sister. Erza isn't just another human; she's his twin. If she hates him, that bond could destroy everything Pain-sama has worked for and might I remind you Pain-sama is a human as well."
"Ugh I forget but Pain-sama is the only exception to the rule his power is so godlike I forget he's even apart of that pathetic species!" Desire said hearts forming in her eyes as she looked from her sister to the still sitting Nagato.
Nagato groaned softly, pinching the bridge of his nose. He was already getting fatigued from their argument, but before he could command silence, Tobi materialized through the floor like an unwelcome specter, his orange mask the first thing to emerge.
"Tobi thinks we should throw a big surprise party for Pain-sama to cheer him up since his sister didn't join!" he exclaimed, his voice brimming with unhinged cheer as his head fully emerged, followed by his flailing arms.
Both sisters froze, their gazes snapping downward to find Tobi grinning up at them his masks eyehole was directly under their dresses giving him a full view of their womanly curves. Desire's wings flared slightly as she raised a foot. "You filthy little worm that's for Pain-Sama's eyes only!!" she hissed, her voice dripping with disdain.
"You perverted idiot." Lust muttered, lifting her heel to stomp him into oblivion.
The sisters descended upon Tobi with synchronized fury, their sharp heels plunging down again and again only to pass harmlessly through his intangible form however they left craters in the rooms floor. Tobi let out exaggerated cries of mock pain, twisting his voice to sound pitiful.
"Ahh! Stop! Not my mask! Tobi only wanted to help!"
"You're such a waste of space!" Desire growled, stomping harder despite her attacks having no effect. "How are you even useful?"
"Ummm I'm a Party planning genius!" Tobi exclaimed, his arms thrown wide in theatrical triumph.
"Idiot," Lust muttered, still stomping.
"No wait I forgot I was brought in to report back to Pain-Sama the happenings in the woman's hot springs!!" Tobi childishly yelled out his lie.
Both Desire and Lust paused their stompings blushing heavily at the thought of their master giving such a dirty order.
"You dumbass," Deidara's voice interrupted as he strode into the chamber hearing the commotion as he was walking by, his golden hair catching the faint light of the room. "It's not a surprise party if you tell the person it's for!. And Pain would never give such an order!"
Tobi immediately froze, turning to Deidara with a mock gasp. "Always so smart, Deidara-senpai! How could Tobi forget?"
"Shut up, Tobi," Deidara growled, though his expression softened into a begrudging grin as he muttered under his breath. "Hearing your voice makes me want to use my art on myself!"
Nagato's patience had worn thin. His Rinnegan flared faintly, a ripple of oppressive magical energy surged from him silencing the room for a moment. Before he could speak, Konan's wings made a rustling noise announcing her arrival back to the guild, Konan's paper wings folded behind her neatly as she landed gracefully in the chamber, her piercing gaze surveying the group before settling on Nagato.
"Pain," she began, her voice calm yet urgent, "we've received new intelligence. Someone else has been targeting dark guilds mostly around the five nations but also including some dark guilds in Fiore associated with Grimoire Heart."
Nagato's interest was piqued immediately. "Grimoire Heart?" he echoed, his tone as cold and precise as ever.
"Yes," Konan confirmed, stepping forward to place a scroll on the table in front of him. "The reports are fragmented, but this individual appears to be extremely powerful. Their methods are unconventional, and some claim they possess special eyes. It looks like based on reports that he also has a small team that sometimes accompanies him on missions."
The faint glow of Nagato's Rinnegan intensified as he took the scroll. Another wielder of unique eyes? The possibility intrigued him, though it also raised questions. Was this individual a potential ally who understood the burden of such power—or a threat to his plans?
"We'll investigate," Nagato said, his voice carrying the weight of command. "If they can be recruited, they will join us. If they oppose us…"
His words trailed off, leaving the implication hanging in the air like a blade poised to strike. Desire's lips curled into a grin, already savoring the idea of a battle. Lust, ever the strategist, inclined her head slightly, her eyes gleaming with plans being formed.
"As you wish, Pain-sama," Konan said, her tone unwavering.
"Tobi gather the rest of the guild. I have new jobs for everyone we will meet in two days." Nagato addressed the goofy man who was still inside the floor with only a head visible.
"AS YE WISH MI LORD!" Tobi said in his best knight accent before disappearing through the floor completely off to carry out his order
The room fell into a tense silence as Nagato turned back to the plans before him. Erza's rejection still lingered in his mind like a festering wound, but he buried the pain deep, focusing instead on the pieces of the grand puzzle before him.
The meeting room was dim, illuminated only by the ethereal glow of Nagato's Rinnegan and a few lacrima lamps. The tension was palpable as the Akatsuki gathered around, their shadows flickering ominously against the cold stone walls. Each member sat or stood in their own unique way—some lounging with calculated indifference, others watching Nagato with unwavering attention. At the head of the table stood Pain himself, his piercing gaze sweeping over his subordinates like a judge presiding over fate.
Konan stood silently by his side, her paper wings folded neatly behind her. She exuded calm authority, a contrast to the restless energy in the room. Desire and Lust, Zeref's creations of etherious nature occupied the shadows at the edge of the room, their glowing eyes gleaming faintly as they observed the gathering with amusement. Deidara sat forward in his chair, drumming his fingers on the table, while Hidan muttered a prayer to Jashin. Kisame leaned back, arms crossed, his grin exposing sharp teeth, while Minerva sat composed yet watchful, her golden gaze flickering between the others occasionally lingering on Itachi who sat across from her a blush gracing her cheeks in those moments.
Nagato raised a hand, silencing the murmurs before they could begin. His voice was calm, yet it carried the weight of absolute authority. "The time has come to advance our plans. The Gedo Statue is nearing completion, but its construction is not yet finalized. Until then, the Tailed Beasts cannot be extracted. The Jinchūriki must be captured alive and held until we are ready."
He gestured toward a map on the table, marked with precise locations. "Our underlings in the city have constructed a prison designed specifically for the Jinchūriki. It is reinforced to suppress their chakra and contain their beasts. Your assignments are as follows: you will capture the Jinchūriki and deliver them to the facility alive. The time for extraction will come soon, but for now, the priority is containment."
He turned his gaze to Deidara and Tobi. "The Six-Tails Jinchūriki has been located. Deidara, Tobi, you will handle this assignment."
Deidara smirked, flipping his blonde hair aside. "Finally, some action. These Jinchūriki think they're so powerful, but I'll show them the true beauty of destruction, yeah."
Tobi clapped his hands, practically bouncing in his seat. "Tobi is a good boy! Tobi will help Deidara-senpai catch the Six-Tails and make it explode!"
Deidara groaned, rolling his eyes. "You're going to ruin the whole mission if you keep acting like an idiot. Just stay out of my way and let me handle the art."
Nagato's voice cut through their bickering like a blade. "Enough. The Six-Tails is not to be underestimated. Work together and ensure it is captured alive."
Deidara muttered something under his breath but nodded. Tobi saluted dramatically, his enthusiasm undiminished.
Nagato's gaze shifted to Hidan and Kakuzu. "The Two-Tails Jinchūriki is your target. You are to subdue and transport it to the prison."
Hidan grinned, his crimson eyes alight with excitement. "Alive, huh? Fine. I'll carve them up a bit for Jashin-sama and then drag what's left back. That's close enough, right?"
Kakuzu sighed, his tone laced with irritation. "Try not to damage the merchandise too much, or I'll have to fix your mess. Again."
Hidan snorted. "Oh, shut up, you miserly bastard. I'll handle my part, and you can focus on not getting in Jashin's way."
Kakuzu's eyes narrowed dangerously, but he held his tongue, clearly accustomed to his partner's antics.
Nagato's attention moved to Kisame and Sasori. "The Three-Tails is a high priority. Kisame, Sasori, you will handle this mission together."
Kisame leaned forward, his grin widening. "The Three-Tails, huh? Sounds fun. Something big enough to actually challenge Samehada's appetite."
Sasori, ever composed, nodded curtly. "Efficiency is key. I have no interest in theatrics, Kisame. Do not waste my time."
Nagato's tone hardened. "The Three-Tails must be captured alive, Kisame. Do not let your bloodlust jeopardize the mission."
Kisame shrugged but nodded. "Yeah, yeah. Don't you all gang up on me… I'll play nice."
"Konan, Minerva," Nagato continued, "the Four-Tails is yours. You are both highly capable, and I trust you to handle this efficiently."
Minerva inclined her head, her expression calm and confident. "Understood. The Four-Tails will be secured."
Konan simply nodded, her paper wings shifting slightly as she acknowledged the order.
Nagato's eyes finally fell upon Lust and Desire, who were leaning against opposite walls, their stances mirroring each other. "Lust, Desire, the Five-Tails Jinchūriki, Han, is your target. He is a skilled mage with immense power. Your combined abilities will be necessary to subdue him."
Lust's lips curled into a smirk as she straightened, her golden eyes gleaming. "Finally, something interesting. It will be a pleasure, Pain-sama."
Desire stretched her black wings, her grin feral. "About time we got to do something exciting. Don't worry, Pain-sama, we'll handle this. I'll make him scream before we bring him in."
Lust rolled her eyes at her sister's enthusiasm but said nothing, clearly eager for the mission as well.
Before Nagato could continue, Kisame leaned forward, his voice laced with annoyance. "Why not pair me with Itachi like usual? We make a good team, don't we? Sending me with Sasori instead—"
Nagato's Rinnegan flared faintly, his gaze locking onto Kisame. "Itachi and I have a separate mission. One that requires the power of legendary magic eyes. Only those with such abilities can handle this task. You will work with Sasori because your combined skills are what the Three-Tails requires in my estimation."
Kisame's jaw tightened, but after a moment, he leaned back with a grin that didn't quite reach his eyes. "Fine. But don't go getting yourself killed, Itachi. I won't have anyone left to reign me in."
Itachi, who had remained silent until now, inclined his head slightly. "Your concern is noted, Kisame."
Nagato's gaze swept over the group one final time. "You have your assignments. Proceed immediately and ensure the Jinchūriki are delivered to the prison alive. Failure is not an option."
The room was silent as Nagato's words settled over them like a decree. Slowly, the members began to rise and leave. Deidara muttered something about unappreciated art, while Tobi hummed a cheerful tune. Hidan was already boasting about the bloodshed to come, with Kakuzu trailing behind, grumbling about the expenses their trip would cost. Kisame glanced at Itachi one last time before following Sasori, his grin returning as he hefted Samehada.
Konan and Minerva exchanged a brief look of understanding before departing together, their combined presence radiating quiet confidence. Lust and Desire lingered for a moment, their golden eyes gleaming with anticipation, Desire mentioning finally getting to wear her battle armor before slipping away into the guild.
"Now that that's settled…" Nagato's deep, commanding voice echoed through the chamber. His piercing purple eyes, ringed with ominous concentric circles, gleamed as he turned toward Itachi. "Let's see just how powerful these eyes truly are."
Itachi's expression remained stoic, his crimson Sharingan spinning lazily as he met Nagato's gaze. "I'm curious myself. If this man possessed the Sharingan or Byakugan, the reports would have mentioned it. For his eyes to draw this much attention, they must be as rare—perhaps even more unique—than our own."
The two strode out of the meeting room, their footsteps reverberating through the stone halls of the guild. Intern-level mages loitered in the corridors but quickly stiffened, bowing deeply as Nagato and Itachi passed. The air grew heavier in their presence, their reputations casting an oppressive feeling over the lesser members of the guild.
At the guild's exit stood a tall figure with spiky orange hair and metal piercings embedded throughout his face, each rod glinting ominously in the light. His most striking feature, however, was his eyes—identical to Nagato's. The rippling purple orbs seemed to radiate power and menace.
"You're bringing one of the Six Paths with you?" Itachi asked, his tone measured, but the faintest edge of curiosity betrayed his interest. "An extra layer of insurance, I see."
Nagato's lips curled into a subtle, knowing smile. "You're too perceptive for your own good, Itachi," he replied, his voice tinged with amusement. "Should things take an unexpected turn, I'll use the Pain to channel another path of magic. Better to be prepared than blindsided."
Itachi stood for a moment, watching Nagato's calm yet commanding presence. "Hn. So I've been told," he replied coolly, his voice carrying an understated edge of respect.
With that, Nagato pushed open the guild's heavy front door. Sunlight spilled into the hall, illuminating his crimson hair as he stepped into the open air. He raised a hand, his magic flaring as he summoned a colossal bird with a flap of its immense wings, the beast landed gracefully before him, its black feathers rippling like liquid obsidian.
Nagato climbed onto the bird's back with practiced ease, his movements fluid and confident. "Let us see if the reports of these eyes are exaggerated!" he said as the bird shifted beneath him, eager to take flight.
With a graceful leap, Itachi joined Nagato atop the bird, the creature letting out a low, guttural cry as it prepared to ascend. The guild faded into the distance as the pair soared into the sky.