Chapter 26: Party Favor
As Strider got back to the hotel, the scene was chaotic and uproarious. Everyone was getting ready for the big party, their excitement untenable.
"I just want to know what the big announcement is! IT BETTER BE ANOTHER FIGHT! I DIDN'T GET TO FIGHT THE LAST EVENT!" Natsu roared.
"Aww… I don't wanna fight anyone anymore," Lucy whined.
"I don't think you'd be forced to participate," Erza sighed. It was the that she noticed Strider's return. "Welcome back. You smell nice."
"Hot springs. Much needed rest and relaxation," Strider said.
"You should've invited us," Cana said, hugging him from behind.
"I would've, but you ladies had to go shopping. Get your dresses, then?" he wondered.
"Oh yeah. We're all getting changed once we get over there. It's gonna be a fun night," Cana giggled.
"Feels nice to get a little rest and relaxation in after all the ruckus these Games caused. I just hope Jellal, Meredy, and Ultear will be able to get in," Strider said.
"What? What're you talking about?" Erza asked, walking him away.
"I met Ultear earlier today and told them they should try to attend if they can," Strider said, shrugging.
"Are you insane?! They're all wanted criminals!" Erza said exasperatedly. She'd expect something like this from Natsu, but assumed that Strider would know better.
"Relax, Erza. They were a huge help against the dragons. I'm sure the king will give them a pass," Strider said sheepishly.
"I certainly hope they wouldn't be that stupid," Erza deadpanned.
"Never underestimate one who wants to have fun," Strider laughed. He was about to walk away when he felt her grab on to arm, a look of worry in her eye. Immediately, his smile fell.
"You saw?" he asked quietly.
"Yes," she said uncomfortably. "Wh—"
"Later," he said, taking his leave. Erza sighed and join the others, her mind traveling to his face.
-o-
"STRIDER! ARE YOU ALRIGHT? WHAT'S WRONG?!" Erza roared as she flipped him over. Mira and Bisca forced everyone else to back off, giving him the space that he needed. However, as they heard Erza gasp, their heads snapped around.
As Mira, Bisca, Cana, Lucy, Juvia, and Jenny joined Erza in surrounding Strider, they looked on terrified at the state of his face. The left side was all but destroyed - harsh and skeletal; the cheek appeared as though it was burned through. They could trace the muscle fibers and see the whites of his teeth. His left eye was a milky white, the area around it burned to the bone.
"Oh my God…" Mira said, eyes wide in shock at the state of his face. Juvia suddenly set up a wall of water, intent on keeping prying eyes out.
"What happened?" Cana asked quietly.
"Did… did this just happen? What the hell?" Bisca asked, bewildered.
"He was just fine a moment ago!" Lucy shrieked.
"I don't know! HOW WOULD I KNOW?!" Erza asked, a bit irritated that they were asking questions that just couldn't be answered right now.
"We have to get him to the hotel. Now," Mira ordered.
"Juvia, keep everyone off of us," Erza ordered.
"Right," she nodded.
"Wendy, Shelia - get Ms. Porlyusica and have her meet us there. Don't tell anyone about this, ok?" Erza said.
"A-Alright," Wendy said, afraid for her teammate. She and Shelia rushed off while Erza and Mira slung Strider's arms around their shoulders and carried him to the hotel, the rest of the teams watching in a state of bafflement.
-o-
"What is it?" Makarov asked Porlyusica, his brow furrowed.
"I've never seen anything like it," the old woman said, although her tone of voice betrayed no sense of surprise. "If I had to say, he was most likely burned by a dragon or something similar."
"But how come we've never seen this?! It just appeared!" Mira said, her voice shrill.
"An illusion. I'm only moderately aware of the property behind it. It doesn't take much Magic to use, so most wizards are able to keep it for extended periods of time. It usually only wears off when they fall asleep, unconscious, or out of power," Porlyusica said.
"It definitely didn't happen to him when he slept over," Cana muttered, eliciting harsh stares from the others. "What! I'm just saying!"
"She's right. It's never happened before as far as I'm aware," Erza said.
"It might've only occurred during the last seven years. Regardless, what the boy needs right now is rest. Don't pester him about it until he's okay," Porlyusica said.
"Can't you do anything for it, Ms. Porlyusica?" Bisca asked.
"Unfortunately, I can't. There's no remedy for dragon fire in Ishgar. It's likely that the illusion magic is all he has to deal with it. I imagine he's tried to get it fixed otherwise," Porlyusica said.
"What about his scars, though? Can't he cover them up as well?" Lucy asked.
"He mentioned that some of them are from cursed weapons," Mira said. As she looked at the healer, Porlyusica shook her head.
"I put some special cream on some of the smaller ones and was able to hide them. It didn't work on the larger ones," Porlyusica said. Makarov walked her out, leaving the girls with Strider's prone form.
"I can't believe it…" Lucy said softly, gently caressing his face.
"It's insane. How could he even survive this?" Jenny asked, feeling slightly hollow.
"Let's let him get some rest. Come on," Mira whispered, leading the others to her room. As they got settled, their minds stayed in Strider's room.
-o-
Strider saw that Mira was a bit removed from the others, leaning against a wall. He walked over, giving her a hug and eliciting a smile.
"Happy to see that you're feeling better," Mira murmured.
"Thanks in no small part to you and the others. Thanks for taking care of me," he said.
"It's fine. But… what happened?" she asked, frowning.
"Just overloaded, I think," Strider said, reticent to discuss the topic further. "Even for me, fighting so many dragons is difficult."
"You made it seem easy," she mused.
"That's the key - make it look easy and disguise the difficulty, so people will be impressed," he laughed.
"Don't do something so stupid again, though," she sighed.
"I'll try my best," he said. That didn't do much to assuage her, however; Mira just sighed again. "What is it?"
"We would've been goners if it wasn't for you," she said, brow furrowed. "We've been getting lazy."
"You really think so?" he asked, surprised.
"We weren't able to help you much last night - not just Fairy Tail, but the other guilds. You practically had to take care of it yourself," she said.
"I'm used to it," Strider said.
"That doesn't really make me feel any better," Mira sighed.
"Everyone gets equal credit, more or less. A few young dragons are difficult, but not impossible. 10,000 dragons, though? I was out after three. If you guys didn't close the Gate - and if Natsu hadn't destroyed it - we all would've been goners. No man is an army, after all," Strider said.
"You just might be," she said, managing a short giggle. They both fell silent again, enjoying the rambunctious nature of their friends.
"I wonder if Lisanna will ask Natsu to the party?" Mira wondered, seeing her younger sister giggling at the Fire Dragon Slayer's antics.
"Natsu might be to dense to understand. It's endearing from my point of view, but must be enraging if you're her," Strider chuckled.
"They'd make such a cute couple," Mira cooed. "They were always hanging out with each other as kids. Did you know that she and Natsu were the ones who found Happy?"
"I didn't. What happened?" Strider asked.
"Happy hatched from an egg that Natsu and Lisanna had found when they were younger. They took such good care of it - it was the cutest thing ever!" Mira squealed delightfully. "Lisanna even called herself his wife and Happy's mom."
"That is adorable," Strider chuckled. "Although, doesn't look like Elfman is as eager of the couple as you are."
"Ugh," Mira groaned. Her little brother was grumbling as he saw how Lisanna reacted to Natsu. While he admired the Dragon Slayer as well, his overprotectiveness wouldn't allow him to pass.
"Considering he's hanging around Evergreen all the time, he might not have much room to talk," Strider mused, laughing internally at how the Fairy-Wizard interacted with the macho man.
"I never pegged them together. I thought she'd have more of a thing for Bixlow considering how often the Thunder Legion is together. But I guess not," Mira giggled.
-o-
"Hey, Natsu…," Lisanna suddenly said.
"Huh? What's up, Lisanna?" the Dragon Slayer asked with a grin.
"Do you want to escort me to the ball?" Lisanna asked with a blush.
-o-
"YAY!" Mira cheered, rushing over.
"NOOOO!" Elfman roared, eliciting barely a sigh from the rest of the guild; they already knew the deal.
-o-
"Huh? Aren't we all going with each other?" Natsu wondered. He suddenly felt Strider wrap an arm around his shoulders, nodding safely.
"Do as I say, Natsu - trust me on this. Tell her you'd be happy to," Strider said quietly.
"Huh? Wh-," Natsu began before Strider shook his head.
"Trust me on this. You'll make her really happy if you do," Strider said.
"Uh… okay. I'd be happy to, Lisanna," Natsu said, sweatdropping. Lisanna and Mira giggled, but the younger beauty thought it was at least a step forward.
"WAIT! I DON'T APPROVE OF THIS!" Elfman interjected.
"To bad," Mira said cheerfully. "Beside, Natsu's great. What's your problem with him?"
"He's… immature!" Elfman contested.
"So are you," Evergreen sighed.
"He does dangerous things! What if Lisanna gets hurt?!" Elfman demanded.
"Risk of joining a guild, little brother," Mira said.
"He's… to old for her!" Elfman shouted.
"We're the same age," Lisanna sweatdropped.
"Well… it… uhh…," Elfman fumbled.
"Relax, Elfman. I'm sure Natsu will take good care of Lisanna, if it comes down to it. Besides, with you and Mira looking out for her, I'm sure he won't try anything untoward," Strider said.
"…fine," Elfman sighed.
"Yay!" Lisanna exclaimed, hugging her brother tight.
"Speaking of age, though, Mira - isn't Strider older than you now?" Lisanna asked.
"I almost forgot about that!" Elfman said in horror.
"I - well - look, that - it's… different," Mira said, turning red.
"How?!" Elfman asked.
"A little help, Strider…," Mira grumbled. Strider laughed before quieting down, thinking on how to reply.
"Well, I'm not going to age like you guys will so it's a bit different, I think," Strider finally said. They looked at him in surprise, not sure how to take that.
"What do you mean?" Mira finally asked.
"Well, in another hundred years or so, I'll probably still look like this," Strider said.
"WHAT?! HOW?!" Lisanna asked, shocked.
"The line of men and women that I'm descended from live longer lives - usually a couple of hundred years. So seven years isn't as much to me," Strider said.
"Holy crap, that's gotta be the manliest thing I've ever heard of," Elfman said, awestruck.
"You'll live to be 200?!" Lisanna asked.
"Hopefully," Strider sighed.
"Wow…" Mira said, just as surprised.
"So… are you like a different species of person or something?" Lisanna asked.
"No, I'm still human. It's a matter of ancestry. The line itself is diluting every generation, though - a few millennia from now, it'll probably be in line with everyone else," Strider said.
"That's so cool," Natsu said excitedly.
"Glad you think so. Now, I think Lisanna would like to help you with something. Have some fun," Strider laughed, clapping Natsu on the back. Soon, Mira was alone with Strider.
"Is something bothering you?" Strider asked, noticing her staring at him intensely. She nodded for him to follow and led him upstairs to her room.
"What is it?" he asked.
"I just realized that I still hardly know you," she sighed, uneasy.
"What do you mean?" he asked.
"I mean… like that conversation we just had. I never knew you'd live to be that old. It just occurred to me that there's still a lot I don't know," she said.
"Are you afraid?" he asked.
"No! Nothing like that at all. I'm just… curious," she said.
"There are a lot of things that I prefer not to speak about - either because I've forgotten them, because I try to ignore them, or simply because I just don't want to. But I'll make an exception. Ask me what you want, and I'll try to answer. I just ask that for the next couple of days, we can enjoy ourselves," he said. Mira was surprised by his willingness to open up to her so easily now.
"Why now?" she asked quietly.
"I trust you. And all of you, of course," he said, a bit louder. He telekinetically opened the door - Juvia, Cana, Erza, Bisca, and Lucy all fell inward, surprised looks on their faces. They quickly turned to fear as Mira's hard gaze fell on them, and the She-Devil began to rise again.
"Oh, look at the time! GOTTAGOGETREADYCOMEONCANABISCA!" Lucy exclaimed, taking their hands and ripping downstairs.
"Yes. I must prepare as well," Erza said, flashing Mira a quick look. She surreptitiously nodded before taking her leave, while Juvia slowly left as well, making sure to keep her eyes locked with Mira all the while - as if daring her to try something with Strider in her presence.
"So nosy…" Mira sighed.
"I recall you following Erza and I when we had our first fight," Strider joked.
"Can't believe you remember that after so long," she sighed. Turning Strider towards her, she put a hand on his cheek, gently caressing it. "So in fifty years, you're still going to look like this and I'll…"
"In fifty years, I hope to be there for you as I am now. As far as I'm concerned, your beauty won't diminish," Strider said. Mira smiled as she felt the intensity of his words - they matched the intensity of his look. After giving him a kiss on the cheek, she led him downstairs to rejoin the others.
-o-
"ATTENTION EVERYONE!" Makarov roared as everyone was once again gathered in the lobby of the hotel. "A COUPLE THINGS! FIRST OF ALL - WE'RE NUMBER ONE AGAIN!"
The guild erupted into a raucous cheer that rumbled the entire building. Fairy Tail's excitement could felt several blocks over, eliciting smiles from everyone that heard.
"Thanks to Erza, Gajeel, Laxus, Gray, and Strider we are the number one guild in Fiore again! Do you five have something to say?" Makarov asked.
"It wasn't just us. It was everyone in Fairy Tail - our family!" Gray yelled to another raucous cheer.
"Man, I just wish I could've been there," Natsu grumbled.
"I just wanna fight again," Gajeel said, punching a fist into his palm.
"No kidding," Laxus sighed. While peace and quiet were enjoyable, he wouldn't mind another rumble as well as a go at Jura.
"Here's to you all," Erza said proudly.
"I've nothing to say that hasn't been said already," Strider said, raising a glass in a toast to everyone.
"SECOND! The King will be announcing something later tonight. Make sure you stick around for the announcement!" Makarov yelled. "And THIRD - let's get to the party!"
-o-
"Mira!" Jenny squealed, rushing to greet her friend as Fairy Tail met with Blue Pegasus and Lamia Scale en route to Mercurius.
"How are you, Strider?" Jura asked as he and Makarov walked in line with Strider.
"Doing well, Jura. Excellent job in keeping those statues up and running during the fight," Strider praised.
"We only lasted so long thanks to your expertise," Jura said modestly.
"I think it's mostly because Yukino and Lucy were able to close the Gate and Natsu destroyed it. If not for that, it could've been much, much worse," Strider said.
"Strider - something's been on my mind," Makarov said.
"What is it, Master?" Strider wondered.
"The dragons cause severe destruction, but earlier today I noticed that the buildings had begun to repair themselves. The city looks - probably not as good as new, but better than before. Do we have you to thank for that?" Makarov asked.
"I thought I would give it a try. It's helpful in expanding the range of my telekinesis, so it wasn't entirely altruistic," Strider said.
"You're certainly full of surprises," Jura asked.
"Full of something else as well, probably. Happy to see you again," said Yoruichi, coming up behind them.
"Hello, Yoruichi," Strider said pleasantly.
"Hey. Where's Bob and Goldmine and Ooba?" she wondered, looking around.
"Bob's hitting on young boys again, Goldmine's getting drunk with Bacchus, and Ooba is spinning Toby," Jura sighed. His Master was far too quick to spin others, he thought.
"I didn't know you two were on a first name basis," Makarov said.
"Well, when you've seen each other naked, it's only natural," Yoruichi laughed. Strider couldn't help but join along as he saw the look in Makarov's eye.
"If you ever discover magic to make someone younger again…" Makarov began.
"You'll be the very first to know, Master," Strider obliged.
"Good boy," Makarov nodded along, heading off to speak with Yajima, Jura at his side.
"You're not very good at following directions, are you?" Yoruichi asked.
"Hmm? What's that supposed to mean?" Strider asked.
"I ask you to find me at the party, not the other way around," she said.
"The party has yet to begin, so technically this doesn't count," Strider said.
"People that use technically are assholes," she said.
"Well, technically…" Strider began before shutting up as he saw the look in her eye. "Right you are, I mean."
"See, that wasn't too hard. Like I said, come find me at the party when you get a chance," she said before hurrying along.
"What was that about?" Erza asked as she came up behind Strider.
"The Master of Mermaid Heel. She's from Alikitasia, so I'm interested in getting her perspective on what's happened in Alvarez," Strider said.
"Have you ever heard of anything like that happening?" Erza asked.
"Once or twice. It's far more than a rare occurrence. In fact, it should be impossible," Strider said with a frown.
"Do you think she could help?" Erza asked.
"At the very least, I think she knows a bit more than she's told me so far," Strider said.
"You don't intend to look for whatever caused it, do you?" Erza asked, her eyes narrowed.
"Mmm… not soon, at least," Strider said, laughing a bit as he heard her exasperation. "Not this week, then. No, until we get back to Magnolia, I intend to enjoy myself as much as humanly possible."
"Excellent! As do I! And we begin tonight with sweets!" Erza declared, eliciting another hearty laugh from him. Suddenly, Erza felt a presence to her side. Looking sideways, she saw a slicked-back head of blue hair, covered slightly by a cowl. However, the red markings on the right side of his face were unquestionable. "Jellal?!"
"Shh!" he hissed, pressing a finger to his and her lips.
"I can't believe you actually came here!" she exclaimed quietly.
"We'll be all right as long as a certain red-headed somebody doesn't blow our cover!" Meredy hissed, coming up behind Erza.
"Meredy! You too?!" Erza asked, exasperated.
"I'm here as well," Ultear said lamely as she chimed in. The two girls had their hair in a ponytail and wore stunning pink and purple dresses - drastically different from their usual apparel.
"I can't believe this," Erza said, rubbing her temples.
"Blame Strider. He put the thought in Meredy's head," Jellal sighed.
"Strider! What do you have to say for yourself?!" Erza demanded.
"Hello, Jellal, Meredy, Ultear. Enjoying yourselves?" he asked cheerfully, narrowly avoiding an iron-fisted punch from Erza.
"You know it's us?" Meredy asked, surprised.
"Only because I can detect your power - as well as you being the only person that has such vivacious hair. Don't worry, though. This disguise should pass. At least for you and Ultear. Jellal, you might wanna cover up those markings," Strider nodded.
"Unfortunately, I can't," he sighed.
"Hmm… half mask, then. You guys have an escape plan, right?" Strider asked.
"Do you think we'll need one?" Meredy asked.
"I certainly hope not. I've got your back though. Be careful, though - and enjoy yourselves. Not every day you're invited to a party thrown by a king," Strider said, his voice slightly sour.
-o-
As all the guilds arrived, the men and women began to section off into different wings to get changed. Strider snapped his fingers; in place of his usual attire was a dashing black robe that covered him from the neck, all the way down. On the back of the robe was a sword with a white hilt and red blade, driving through a golden ring. The robe was tighter than the previous one, hugging his body, arms, and legs a bit closer than one typically would - but hanging a bit looser around the shoulders and stomach. A mithril crown with a black jewel centerpiece appeared on his head, giving him a regal and kingly appearance.
"Don't you look handsome," Mira said, coming up from behind. She was stunning as always, wearing a beautiful salmon dress with white stripes running along the top. Her hair was done in a high ponytail, the usual tuft missing.
"You look stunning," Strider said. She blushed a bit before noticing what he was wearing. She ran and hand up and done his chest and stomach several times, taken aback by the smoothness of the material.
"Is this like the dress you gave me?" she asked.
"It is. Although I daresay you looked better in it than I do in this," he said.
"I dunno. You look pretty beautiful yourself," Mira giggled.
"I've been told that I'm in touch with my feminine side," he said smugly. "I can have that dress ready for you if you'd like."
"I want to say yes," Mira sighed. "Buuuut… later, maybe? It's beautiful, but I don't want to draw too much attention for tonight."
"As beautiful as you are, that'll be difficult with or without that dress," Strider said.
"You're sweet," Mira said, smiling.
"Beautiful dress, Mira," Erza said, coming up to the pair. She went with a flattering corset that exposed a significant amount of cleavage with a heavy golden necklace just above. Around her waist, she wore a flowering red skirt. Her hair was done similar to Mira's, a section of it falling over the right eye. A thin golden chain ran around the top of her head; in a word, she looked beautiful.
"Thanks, Erza. Excellent choice," Mira said, admiring her best friend.
"No kidding. It'll be a feast for the eyes tonight, I'm sure," Strider said.
"Figures you'd think that," Mira sighed.
"That said… what is Jenny wearing?" Strider asked, a bit bewildered. He assumed the beautiful blonde would be wearing something similar to what Mira or Erza did; instead, she wore a conservative robe that had a pink top and a green bottom as well as a flower in her hair.
"She likes to switch it up here and there. Probably trying to be as safe as possible before that photo shoot of hers," Mira giggled.
"Ugh. I heard that," Jenny grumbled. She sidled up close to Strider, nuzzling him. "It's no fair! You saw how mean Mira was to me."
"I understand, Jenny. I'm sure you'll do wonderfully, though. I'm certainly looking forward to it," Strider laughed.
"Wanna come and see it live?" she asked seductively.
"Well, if you're offer—" Strider began before he felt a tug on the other side.
"Yeah, I don't think so lover boy," Cana said. She wore a simple but beautiful purple dress with a boa around her waist and her hair in a ponytail.
"You look stunning," Strider said.
"Don't I know it," she said, taking a hearty swig before passing it to Strider.
"Much obliged," Strider said, finishing the bottle off. With a satisfied ahh he turned back to Jenny but had his attention usurped again, this time by Juvia.
"Catch me, my love!" she exclaimed, leaping onto him. Juvia wore a light blue dress with a lilac hat, smiling and gleeful as Strider hugged her close.
"As you wish," Strider said. Immediately, however, Juvia began to melt.
"Oh, no!" Mira said, quickly prying the Water Wizard off and whisking her away to dry off.
"Every time," Strider sighed.
"It's kind of cute, I guess," Lucy sighed, coming out with Bisca. The gunslinger's hair went down in a braid, reach her thighs; Bisca wore a beautiful pink top with a maroon skirt while Asuka wore a pretty white dress, laughing and reaching. Lucy, meanwhile, wore a pink dress with a fur neck.
"I don't deny that. However, it'd be good if she could stand to touch me longer than a couple of seconds," Strider laughed.
"Hey, any of you guys seen Natsu?" Gray asked, shirtless.
"Perhaps not the best thing to wear to a Grand Ball," Strider said.
"GRAY! Go change into something at once!" Erza ordered.
"Bu—" Gray began before a death glare sent him scurrying.
"Idiot," Erza sighed, unable to hold back a small smile.
-o-
As the Ball began in earnest, Strider went around the ballroom making small talk here and there.
"You guys alright?" Strider asked Sting.
"Pride is still wounded, but it's getting better and better," Sting said, downing another glass of wine and grinning.
"How are you doing now?" Rogue asked.
"Better now, thanks. Guess the fighting took a lot out of me," Strider said.
"At least we know you're not invincible. That means I can still kick your ass," Sting said, grinning.
"I look forward to it," Strider said, smiling. "You guys pick up on what this announcement by the king is?"
"I hear it's gonna be some big fight. Honestly, I can't even think of what else it could be," Sting said.
"I imagine you'll participate, Strider?" Rufus asked.
"If that's the case, I think I just might. Sounds fun, at least," Strider said.
"There's something else I've been meaning to ask you, Strider," Rogue said.
"Please do," he nodded.
"The last dragon you killed - Levia - mentioned that you slew Acnologia. Is that true?" Rogue asked.
"It is, I'm afraid. The Future Rogue seemed surprised," Strider said with a small smile.
"How'd you manage that?" Olga wondered.
"Took a long, long time. Tough bastard, that dragon," Strider said, lifting the hem of his robe and pant leg up. Sabertooth saw the splotchy red marks around his ankles, vivid and angry.
"That's gotta hurt," Sting said.
"No kidding," Strider said. "Good thing we had you guys last night. The outcome could've been different if all the wizards weren't working together. I trust you all learned something during the Games?"
"Indeed. The old Sabertooth is dead. Since yesterday, we've begun anew - with Sting as our new master," Rogue said.
"Congratulations," Strider said, shaking his hand.
"Thanks. First order of business - a pool in our guild hall," Sting said, grinning.
"What happened to the old man and his daughter?" Strider asked.
"We're not sure. Jiemma left the hotel after Sting roughed him up. M'lady took off soon after you eliminated her from the final event," Rogue said.
"That's a shame. She could've been a huge help last night," Strider said.
"No kidding. We hope she's ok, though. She's… not all bad," Sting said. Strider nodded, unsure of what else he could say; from what he could tell with his interactions with Minerva, she wasn't the best kind of person.
-o-
"A word if I may, Strider," Jura said, pulling him aside.
"What is it?" Strider asked.
"A representative from the Magic Council and the Ten Wizard Saints has been dispatched to Crocus. I imagine you'll be seeing them sometime soon," Jura said.
"I see. Do you know what they want to talk about?" Strider asked.
"Most likely it will be Acnologia. They're interested in finally meeting you as well. From what I've heard, your performance in the Games has already reached far and wide," Jura said.
"I'm not sure if that's a good or bad thing," Strider sighed.
"Comes with the territory," Jura said.
"Do you know who it is?" Strider asked.
"Unfortunately, I don't," Jura said.
"Alright. Thank you, Jura," Strider said, taking his leave.
-o-
"I've found you," Strider said, coming up behind Yoruichi. The beauty laughed, clinking his glass.
"That you have. Nice to see you again. Again," she laughed.
"Again?" Kagura asked, curious.
"Yeah. Saw him earlier at the hot springs in all his glory. Talk about glorious," Yoruichi said with a smirk. Kagura and Beth turned red while Risley and Arana giggled.
"She asked that I find her at the party. As a man of my word, here I am," Strider said dramatically. "How are you ladies tonight?"
"I'm well, thank you," Kagura said, her voice a bit brighter than usual.
"Good to hear. Not too roughed up, I hope," he said.
"Just about right, actually," Risley said cheerfully.
"So Strider - care to dance?" Yoruichi said.
"Master Yoruichi!" Kagura said exasperatedly.
"Oh come on, Kagura! You've gotta learn to have fun!" Yoruichi giggled, taking Strider's hand and leading him away. The music changed to something slower and soon, all eyes turned to the two. Mira and Erza grumbled, wondering who she was.
-o-
"Hope you don't mind people staring," Yoruichi said, leaning a bit closer. Their right and left hands were clasped, with her right hand resting on his shoulder and his left around her waist.
"Not at all. I suppose we can talk now for a bit," Strider said.
"All business, hmm?" she wondered.
"Afraid so. Especially when something's piqued my interest," he said.
"Dancing with a beautiful girl doesn't pique your interest?" she asked.
"It does. But a pretty girl isn't as interesting as something a morbid as what happened in Alvarez," he said.
"Straight to the point, I see. I'll have to teach you about decorum," she said.
"I look forward to the lessons," he said with a light smile, eliciting a giggle.
"Fine. What do you want to know?" he asked.
"Everything," Strider said.
"It happened around a year ago. There was a massive attack in Alvarez. When it started, no one knew what was going on. The theories ranged from it being a natural disaster to a dragon attack to terrorism by wizards. The total civilian death count was close to a hundred thousand at the time, with a large chunk of the army dying in ensuing attacks when they tried to stop it. It was… bloody, to say the least," Yoruichi murmured. Strider felt a bit of remorse as he saw the pain her eyes when talking about it, but he didn't interject.
"A hundred thousand civilians?" he repeated.
"Yeah. Like I said, bad. It started off small, but over several months the attacks just kept happening more and more at an increased pace. The army interjected after the first month - but then they were assaulted in the capital of Alvarez, Vistarion. The Emperor's Castle was overrun, and even he couldn't do anything. Which is surprising, because the Emperor of Alvarez is supposed to be an incredibly powerful mage with a powerful circle of advisers as well," Yoruichi said. Strider felt her tighten her hold on his hand. He gently caressed her hand with a thumb, eliciting a small smile from her.
"Anyways, the Emperor's chief adviser reached out to us to find a place for refugees. Fiore was only able to take in a few thousand while Alikitasia took in most. They even ceded some of the attacked lands to the continent," Yoruichi said.
"Sounds like a raw deal for Alikitasia," Strider said.
"Why do you say that?" she wondered.
"If it's blood-soaked land, there won't be much growth. The smell lingers, as does the memories of what happened," Strider said, looking past her eyes. Yoruichi sighed and nodded, deciding not to press the point at the moment.
"A recent death toll puts civilians at over 150,000. I've been there investigating every lead I could follow, however small or wrong it might be. But… even with all that, I wasn't able to glean as much as I wanted. Before I came back here, I found out that whatever the entity was, the attacks were carried out on horseback. Like I told you a little while ago, I had to find multiple people to corroborate. Beyond that, though… nothing. Somehow, there are almost zero traces of the culprits," Yoruichi said. As she said that, Strider noted something else in her voice - pain, and helplessness.
"I'm sure you'll get to the bottom of it," he said quietly.
"Don't patronize me," she said, her voice cutting.
"I mean it," he said earnestly.
"Whatever. That's what I have for the moment. Riders… on horseback killed 150,000 innocent people and hundreds of thousands of army men and women. All in the course of a few months," Yoruichi sighed. "You're from a different continent, right? Ever heard of anything remotely like this?"
"Villages being wiped out was uncommon but not rare. Attacks on this scale, however? Very rarely. I did see something like it once, but that was a freak event. The culprits, in that case, aren't around anymore, though - of that I'm sure. If it was a dragon, I could understand. But Riders? That's something else. Do you know many there could be?" he asked.
"We estimate that the number is less than fifty. This wasn't a blot the sun out kind of army - it was ruthless and efficient. Swords, clubs, maces, and arrows. We weren't able to find tracks, though - either they've been covered or buried, or their horses just didn't leave them," Yoruichi said.
"Anything else of interest that you found out?" Strider asked.
"Mmm…" Yoruichi hummed, wondering what else she wanted to add. "There was something else that I noticed, but I'm not sure what to make of it."
"What is it?" Strider pressed her.
"I went to several different sites, and while those cities and villages were completely wiped out, there were a few differences. One had a more than usual amount of blood - I could walk in it shin deep. In another site, around thirty miles away, the people had black marks over their bodies. We thought it was some kind of disease, so the area was quarantined," Yoruichi said.
"What was it?" Strider asked.
"Pox. But that was the only site with that. There was one other site, though…" Yoruichi said, uncomfortable.
"What is it?" Strider asked.
"It was a village of about seven thousand people. This one wasn't like the other sites, though. There, the bodies were spread out - you could tell the Riders went through and killed whoever they could. But this site… was neat. The entirety of the population was gathered in the large town square - and that's where they all died. Not a single body was found outside the plaza," she said. She looked at him intently, wondering if he had any insight as to why that would be.
"Why would that be?" he asked.
"I don't know," she sighed, shaking her head. Of all the sites, that one had struck her the most. "Is that it?"
"Yes. Thank you," Strider said, twirling her.
"What's your interest in all this?" Yoruichi asked.
"I'm not sure yet, to be honest. I met some of the refugees a few months ago. I suppose I empathize with them," Strider said.
"Mmm… Makarov mentioned something about you fighting in a war. That's true, then?" she asked.
"It is," Strider said.
"Were you a good warrior?" she asked.
"I wish I could say no," Strider said, his voice bitter.
"I hope you're not going to try and look for these Riders," she said warningly.
"I'm not that stupid," Strider sighed.
"I don't completely believe you," Yoruichi giggled. "Anyway, is that it?"
"For now, yes," Strider said.
"Good. Shut up now and let me enjoy this dance. I need to take my mind off of Alvarez for a bit," she said, leaning her head forward and resting it on his chest. Strider wrapped his arms around her waist, holding her close and tight; he had an idea of what was going through her mind right now, and it wasn't a pretty sight.
'If that's the case, I'm going to have to go to Alvarez. Maybe I could get a meeting with the Emperor? If he's that strong, he should have a bit more insight. 150,000 people over a few months. That's impressive, however you cut it,' Strider thought.
-o-
"Thanks for the dance," Yoruichi said as they both walked off.
"It was my pleasure," Strider said, bowing his head slightly.
"Ugh. Don't bow like that to me, please," she grumbled.
"As you wish. I'll see you around, then?" he asked.
"Sooner than you might think. When are we going to see Acnologia's body?" she asked.
"You know about that, then?" he asked.
"I do. It's in your fortress at Valmar, right?" she asked.
"That it is," he said.
"Why you need a fortress, I've no idea. Not planning to conquer Fiore, are you?" she asked with a smile.
"How on Earthland did you know that?" he asked with a laugh.
"Master Yoruichi!" Kagura called out.
"Ugh, again with the Master crap," Yoruichi said, rubbing her brows. "What is it, Kagura?"
"A letter from Soi Fon," Kagura said, handing it over. Yoruichi quickly opened and read it - several times, from what Strider could tell.
"I see. Thank you, Kagura," she said.
"Important business?" Strider asked.
"If I told you, I'd have to kill you," Yoruichi said with a sweet smile.
"Ah. Understood. I won't keep you, then," Strider said.
"See ya. Take good care of Kagura for me," Yoruichi said, winking at the two. Kagura blushed again, sighing in exasperation at her Master's tactics.
"Your Master is an interesting one," Strider said fondly.
"You're telling me," Kagura grumbled. "I see you still have your sword on you."
"Hmm? Oh. Yes. I do," Strider said, mindlessly tracing the hilt.
"I don't think you'll need it tonight," she said.
"I hope not," Strider said darkly. "We've been together so long, I can't seem to part with it for extended periods of time."
"I see. I usually feel the same," Kagura said, looking to her waist. Her sword - the one she had always kept on her person - wasn't there tonight.
"You put it down?" Strider asked.
"I did. I don't feel as though I need it as much anymore. At the very least, not to a ball," she said.
"I'm happy to hear that," Strider said.
"Forgive my rudeness to you during the Games. I was…" Kagura trailed off, unsure of how to finish.
"Think nothing of it. As long as you're good now, it's all in the past. Besides, you weren't too bad," Strider said.
"Thank you," she said, smiling a bit.
"While we're here - care to dance?" he asked.
"What?" Kagura asked, turning a bright red.
"Care to dance?" he repeated.
"I just remembered I need to see how Millianna is doing. See you around!" Kagura said, quickly taking her leave.
-o-
"Finally, some alone time," Jenny squealed, hugging Strider from behind.
"Good to see you again, Jenny," he said, kissing her on the cheek.
"Same. Come on, now. Time for you to dance with me," she said, leading him to the floor. Strider obliged, holding her close as they began.
"So Mira mentioned something a little while ago," Jenny started.
"What is it?" Strider asked.
"She said that you're going to talk to her about yourself," she said.
"I did," Strider nodded.
"Why not? Why not earlier? Or later?" Jenny asked.
"She brought it up today. I know the questions always on her mind. I'm more comfortable speaking about it now than I was seven years ago," he said.
"Can you tell me as well?" Jenny asked quietly, looking at his chest.
"If you want me to," Strider said quietly. Jenny smiled and nodded, deciding not to press him with any more questions. She hugged him closer, enjoying his company and listening to the orchestra.
-o-
As he bid Jenny farewell, Strider began to walk around the ballroom. It wasn't long until he passed Wendy and Shelia, both of whom were happily and intensely observing a very sparkly dessert.
"It's so pretty!" Shelia exclaimed.
"It's so sparkly, it looks like a jewel!" Wendy agreed.
"I wonder what it tastes like?" Shelia inquired as they both got a piece.
"Mmm… so good," they said in unison. Strider couldn't help but laugh a bit at the adorable friends.
As Wendy was eating her treat, the first master approached her.
"Oooh, that looks yummy. Could I have a bite?" Mavis asked, drooling a bit.
"Do ghosts even eat?" Wendy wondered aloud as Shelia looked confused.
"Oh! Excuse me First Master, but have you seen Natsu?" Wendy asked.
"No," Mavis shook her head, still thinking about the treat.
"Hmmm… he's usually impossible to miss…" Wendy wondered aloud.
"Wendy! I think there's something near me and it wants my food!" Shelia suddenly exclaimed. Master Mavis was behind her, trying hard to eat the treat. Strider couldn't help but laugh, feeling a bit sorry for Mavis.
"Enjoying the party, Strider?" Mavis asked, walking next to him.
"Not as much as you are the food, Master," he said with a grin. She stuck her tongue out at him as he laughed a bit more.
"Thank you for lending me that crown, again! It's safe in our hotel!" Mavis said. Her mind was constantly drifting to the beautiful piece; she had put it on and taken it off hundreds of times already.
"You can keep it for a while longer, Master Mavis. Just please take good care of it," Strider said.
"Thank you!" she said before running off - back to the hotel to enjoy it again.
-o-
"Hello, Strider," Ultear said.
"Ultear. You look beautiful," he said with a smile.
"Don't think that compliments are going to work on me! This is all your fault, you know?! If you hadn't told Meredy…" Ultear went off on a rant that Strider mostly ignored, nodding here and there show a semblance of interest. "HEY! DON'T THINK I DON'T NOTICE YOU DOZING OFF!"
"Forgive me. But she's having fun, right? Look," Strider said, nodding at Meredy and Jellal approaching them.
"Hey, Strider! Thanks for the idea!" Meredy chirped.
"Not at all, Meredy. I hope you're enjoying yourself," Strider said.
"You've no idea! Balls are so much fun!" she said gleefully. Ultear finally cracked a smile. Whenever she saw Meredy happy, she was ecstatic as well.
"I was talking to Makarov," Jellal said in a hushed voice.
"About what?" Strider wondered.
"He said you were going to attempt a Century Quest," Jellal said, wanting to confirm it for himself.
"Correct. Once we get back home," Strider affirmed.
"WHAT?! Are you insane?!" Meredy asked in shock.
"Strider - wizards stronger than the three of us combined have tried and failed Century Quests. Jellal - have any of the Ishgar Four even tried?" Ultear asked, her voice laced with worry.
"None of them. Even God Serena hasn't tried one, and he's one of the strongest mages in all of Ishgar. As far as I know, only one person that's attempted a Century Quest has come back alive - Gildarts. And he's more a monster than a man," Jellal said.
"You've never tried one, then?" Strider asked.
"I've never even considered it. I once attempted a Decade Quest, and it was too much for me," Jellal said.
"It seems as though it'll be interesting," Strider said.
"This isn't a joke. There's a reason that these jobs haven't been completed in over 100 years," Ultear said.
"I understand the risk. But I suppose that's part of the interest. Whatever the threat, it's been around for over a hundred years. Perhaps the job offer is over a hundred years old - but the threat that belies it is most certainly ancient," Strider said, a wild gleam in his eyes. He felt Anglachel quiver at his side, but this time he agreed with his sword.
"Be careful," Meredy said worriedly.
"I will. You wouldn't happen to know what some of these jobs are, would you?" Strider asked.
"Only two of them. One involves something inside Mt. Brand, a volcano. Details are scarce - no investigative party has ever returned. There's another involving a shrine. Again, details are scarce - whoever tries doesn't come back. There's another regarding Sacred Mount Zonia, which is where Gildarts fought with Acnologia. I don't think anyone will be trying to visit anytime soon, though," Ultear said.
"A volcano, a shrine, and a mountain? Hmm… monsters? Protectors? Interesting…" Strider said, thinking aloud. The three sweat dropped and left him to his thoughts.
"Thinking about something?" Bisca asked as she came behind him; Asuka was playing with Master Makarov off to the side.
"I am," he said, smiling.
"What is it?" she asked.
"How beautiful you look," Strider said, putting his arms around her and pulling her close.
"Thanks," Bisca said softly, gently caressing his cheek.
"I'll tell you. I promise," Strider said, guessing her thought process.
"Tomorrow?" she asked.
"As you wish," Strider said, leading her to the dance floor. "May I?"
"You may," she nodded, smiling pleasantly.
-o-
"Hello, Strider," Hisui addressed him as he came off the dance floor with Bisca. Arcadios, as usual, was by her side.
"Princess Hisui," Strider said, putting a hand to his chest and bowing his head a bit.
"I wanted to thank you again. If you hadn't fought the dragons last night, I don't know how the kingdom would've survived," she said.
"Indeed. We can't find the words to convey out thanks - as well as how sorry we are for bringing this upon you.
"It's an incredible stroke of luck that no lives were lost and the damage was just economic. The other wizards have been forgiving as well, it seems. That said, I hope you've learned a lesson from all of this," Strider said sternly. They both nodded, deserving the slight scolding.
"I was extremely impressed with your showing in particular, Strider," Arcadios said.
"Thank you, General. But I've experience with dragons; most of the participating Wizards didn't. If anyone deserves thanks, it's them for so readily willing to fight against those kind of odds," Strider said.
"Nonetheless, you slew three dragons and managed to convince two others to slay each other. You're quite a force to be reckoned with. Speaking of which, might I speak with you in private for a moment?" Hisui asked.
"Certainly," Strider said before turning to Bisca. "I'll be right back," he added, then held an arm out for the princess. She led him to the dance floor yet again. Immediately, all eyes turned to them, interested in seeing who the princess of Fiore was gracing with her presence.
-o-
"So much attention," Strider sighed.
"Forgive me. I'd prefer there to be some commotion around us," she murmured.
"As you wish, my lady. What can I do for you?" Strider asked.
"I'm to attend an event in three weeks in Bosco. I would like you to accompany me," Hisui said.
"Me?" Strider asked, bewildered.
"Yes. I'm being sent with a larger retainer than usual because of some of the going ons in the country. But… I would feel much safer with a wizard such as yourself accompanying me," Hisui said nervously.
"What do you mean going ons?" Strider asked, frowning.
"Have you ever been to Bosco?" she asked.
"I don't think so, no," he said.
"It's the only country in Ishgar that has a slave trade," Hisui said uncomfortably. The word cut through Strider viciously.
"Really?" he asked, keeping his voice level.
"Yes. However, the king's birthday is coming up soon. He allows other kingdoms to petition him for a favor on that day - and that day alone. We intend to use ours to try and lessen their dependence on slavery. It's a sensitive subject, however - and while the king himself may be sympathetic, others might not be. Which is why I'm asking you. Will you accept?" Hisui asked.
"I will, yes," Strider said flatly. Hisui smiled and nodded, holding him a bit tighter as she decided to lead him along in the dance.
-o-
"I think the princess has a thing for you," Bisca said, waving at the young girl.
"What can I say? I slay," Strider said with a small smile. Looking around, he saw that Mira and Lucy were reentering the ballroom, Yukino in between them.
"So what were you up to?" Strider asked Mira as she approached.
"This!" she exclaimed as she pointed at Yukino.
"I don't see it," Strider said, looking past Yukino, thinking he missed something obvious.
"It's Yukino, silly. Look at how lovely she is!" Mira said, admiring her handiwork.
"Very pretty indeed," Strider said pleasantly.
Yukino was enjoying her stroll through the hall until she came upon her former teammates. She blushed in embarrassment as she looked at them. Mira, hoping nothing was wrong, went over with Strider.
"I'm sorry, I don't…" Yukino said as she turned away.
"Wait! Please don't leave on our account. Master and M'lady are gone. Sabertooth is changing; after the games, we finally learned what it means to be in a guild. It means that you're a family, and you don't turn your back on family. Please, Yukino… come back to the guild," Sting said. He and his guild mates waited with bated breath, hoping for an affirmative response.
"I…" Yukino began but was cut off by Kagura.
"Wait a minute! Did everyone forget that her life is in my hands? I say she's gotta join Mermaid Heel!" Kagura said, apparently drunk.
"Huh?!" Yukino cried, forgetting the wager.
"WHAT?! LIKE HELL! YOU'RE COMPLETELY WASTED IF YOU THINK THAT'S GONNA HAPPEN!" Sting roared.
"It doesn't matter! I say she has to join us!" Kagura said.
"If she wants to join the best guild, it's obvious who she should join!" Lyon declared as he threw their guild into the fray.
"Get over here now!" Toby howled.
"Don't be rude!" Yuka hissed.
"No way. A woman as beautiful as you deserves the most beautiful guild around," Hibiki said, making her blush.
"We'd love to have you," Jenny smiled.
"I know we've always been macho, but Quatro could use a womanly touch!" Bacchus exclaimed.
"Hold on just a minute! We won't allow you to decide for her!" Erza said, prepared to fight for it.
"Yeah. Besides, if she wants to join the number one guild in Fiore, there's only one option!" Lucy piped in.
"Looks like we have another round on our hands," Makarov said manically.
"Time to show you guys what a wild spirit can do," Goldmine added, just as manic.
"Oh, all this fighting has got me all hot and bothered," Bob said, also manic.
"I'll spin you," Ooba said threateningly.
-o-
Elsewhere, as a certain dark skinned beauty felt a twinge of anxiety.
"What is it?" Soi Fon asked Yoruichi.
"Feel like I need to be somewhere else right now," Yoruichi lamented.
-o-
"Now the masters are getting involved?" Wendy lamented. It wasn't long until the brawl over Yukino began, and the Wizards began jumping into the fray.
"There's no need to cry," Mira said kindly as Yukino started tearing up.
"I know… it's just… you all make me so happy," she said, smiling at Mira.
"It's wonderful to see you smile," Mira said as she hugged Yukino.
"The question now is how we're going to stop this madness?" Strider wondered.
"Hmmm… NO STRIDER, JURA, DON'T JUMP IN!" Mira suddenly yelled. The fighting stopped immediately as everyone jumped back from their positions. Jura, also not partaking in the fight, was laughing off to the side. Strider joined in as well as everyone else sweat dropped and thanked their lucky stars that the two powerhouses didn't join the brawl.
"That was smart," Strider said as he put his arm around Mira. She giggled as she leaned in.
"Your attention, please!" Arcadios suddenly yelled. Everyone turned to him. "The king would like to say a few words!"
"Hi, Mr. King!" Asuka yelled adorably.
"That's gotta be the cutest thing I've ever seen!" Mira chirped as Bisca smiled her thanks. Asuka quickly ran over to Strider, who picked her up and began rocking her. Smiling, Bisca went over to him as well, enjoying how he interacted with her daughter.
It wasn't long until the king walked out - although immediately, something seemed off. He seemed taller… and younger… and had pink hair. Almost everyone looked on in shock, while Strider began laughing.
"Behold your new ruler, subjects! All hail King Natsu, the new ruler of Fiore!" Natsu yelled as the real king, wearing the pumpkin hat, was jumping up and down trying to get his crown back. Finally, however, the king got his crown back and addressed the wizards gathered.
"First of all, I'd like to thank you all for the bravery you showed last night during the dragon attack. It was a trying time for our kingdom, but in the end, we prevailed. In particular, I'd like to thank Mirajane Strauss, Lucy Heartfilia, and Yukino Agria for their quick thinking and stopping even more dragons from appearing," the king said as he bowed to the three women. Everyone clapped as Strider gave Mira a one-armed hug that she returned tightly.
"Without you all, this kingdom would have fallen. Thankfully, however, it will live to see another day. I am indebted to you. Now, no doubt that many of you have heard the rumor that one more event will be held. I'd like to confirm that the rumor is indeed true. For the next three days, we have a lot of festivities planned for you all. It will all culminate in what we hope will become an annual tradition. The name is currently being deliberated, but it will be a free for all between all the guilds. These Grand Magic Games tested your strengths and your bonds of friendship. This event, however, will be used to determine who will be the Champion of Fiore. For our inaugural year, only the guilds that participated in the Games will be allowed to contend. However, as opposed to only five member teams EVERYONE from the guilds will be allowed to participate!" the king yelled. There was a long, pregnant pause before the castle was shaken to its foundation by a thunderous cheer.
"HELL YEAH!" Gray and Natsu roared.
"This should be fun," Erza said, smiling.
"YOU READY, SALAMANDER?! I'M GONNA KICK YOUR ASS ONCE AND FOR ALL!" Gajeel yelled.
"YEAH?! BRING IT!" Natsu screamed back at him.
"Perhaps then Juvia may…" Lyon trailed off.
"That's a lot of competitors," Strider mused.
"Champion of Fiore, huh? I like the sound of that," Sting said, grinning at Rogue. His best friend rolled his eyes but couldn't help but be interested in the event. The name did have a nice ring to it, after all.
"The rules will be simple. Everyone in each guild is allowed to compete - and you may have to eliminate your own guildmates to win. A top three will be decided. The winner, in addition to being named the Champion of Fiore, will receive a personal prize of 50 million jewel as well as the many perks of being Champion - all of which will be conveyed to them and them only. Second place will receive twenty-five million, while third place will receive ten million. The Champion will be barred from entering the tournament the following year. Instead, they will defend their title against the winner of the event next year. Should they win, they will retain their title; should they lose, it will pass on to the next winner. After the event, we will have a ceremony in honor of the champion. This event is part of a much larger one, however - one that we hope will span the continent of Ishgar. At this very moment, these events are being held in the other principalities and kingdoms. It will culminate in a match to determine the strongest wizard in all of Ishgar. I wish you luck, Wizards," the king said, taking his leave.
"Wow… 50 million jewel," Mira said, surprised.
"Sounds fun," Strider said.
"I'm surprised they don't just hand it to you," Mira said.
"You never know - there might be another wizard in one of the other countries that could wipe the floor with me," Strider said.
"Now you're too modest," Mira sighed.
-o-
"Champion of Fiore…" Natsu whispered.
"Champion of Ishgar…" Gray said, a bit weak in the knees. If he won, he would be considered the greatest wizard of the times.
"50 million jewel. Holy crap…" Lucy sighed.
"So much fish," Happy drooled.
"Man, this is gonna be fun," Bixlow said with a grin.
"Laxus?" Freed asked.
"I'm in," the blond nodded.
"I won't take it easy on any of you!" Evergreen declared.
"Strider, I assume you'll be entering?" Erza asked.
"Of course," Strider said, chuckling as he heard several groans.
"Alright! This time, I'm gonna beat you!" Natsu declared.
"I look forward to seeing you try, Natsu," Strider said.
-o-
As the party wound down, the Wizards began dispersing. Their excitement was still palpable, but Strider had a feeling that Crocus was only going to get louder as training regiments got tighter.
"Heading back to the hotel?" Erza asked, walking alongside him.
"I am. Care to walk with me?" Strider asked.
"I would love to," she said softly. They made a quiet exit, opting to take a longer road instead. The sky was a bit cloudy, but the majesty of the stars and moon shone through, casting a soft glow over the land. As he saw her shiver a bit, Strider put an arm around Erza and held her closer. She smiled and leaned into it, happy for this moment of peace.
"Did you enjoy the party?" Strider asked.
"More or less. I'm sorry that I didn't get a chance to dance with you, however," she sighed.
"Well, we do see each other every day," Strider reminded her.
"I know. Still…" she trailed off, eliciting a short laugh from him.
"We'll find some time to get one in. I promise," he said.
"I'll keep you to your word," she said, smiling. "So… about what you were telling Mira earlier…"
"Ah. I heard the same from Jenny. If you're interested, you can listen. Or Mira can relay it to you. Your call," Strider said.
"You seem less reticent about it than you used to be," Erza said.
"I suppose I'm more removed from it now. When I came here, the end of the war was still fresh. We've trudged on since then," Strider said.
"When do you intend to go back?" Erza asked, unsure of whether she wanted to know the answer.
"Hmm… I don't know. Maybe in a month or two. I promise that I'll return, however," Strider added quickly.
"Are you sure?" she asked.
"I am," Strider said.
"Could I come with you?" she suddenly asked. Strider was surprised by the question, enough so that he didn't have an immediate reply.
"I don't know. We'll see," he finally said. That was good enough for Erza right now; she wouldn't forget anytime soon, however.
"Do you prefer it here?" she asked.
"I'm not sure. I recall telling Mira that both their charm. After all, there's no Fairy Tail in my homeland - and certainly no Erza or Mirajane or Lucy or Cana or Bisca," he said. Erza blushed a little but smiled, happy with his answer. "That said, it's still important to me. There's still so much work that needs to be done."
As she looked at him, Erza frowned. There was a look on his face that she hadn't seen before. He seemed to have aged several decades; his face fell, a sullen look in his eye and a small, bitter smile on his lips. She didn't know what to say to assuage him; she contented herself by hugging him a bit closer.
-o-
"I'll see you in the morning," Erza murmured.
"Come with me for a sec," he said, leading her to his room. Erza obliged, quietly shutting the door behind. As she turned to face him again, Strider pulled her close, his arms around her waist.
"W-What're you doing?" she asked quietly.
"I just promised you that we'd dance, right? There's no music, but I'm sure we can use our imagination," Strider whispered. Erza smiled and blushed at the passion evident in his voice; nodding softly, she put her arms around his neck and held him close, swaying in stride with him.
"This is nice," she said after several minutes of silence.
"It is," Strider said, tilting her chin up and giving her a passionate kiss. Erza leaned fully into this one, her fingers snaking through his hair and keeping his head in place. She felt his tongue slowly ease into her mouth, touching and twisting against her own. She moaned in pleasure as she felt him reach down and pull her skirt up a bit, squeezing her thighs before giving her a hard spank. She quickly discarded the dress before doing the same for his robe and shirt. Erza walked back a bit, pulling him along until both were on the bed, kissing with unrestrained passion. His hand snaked through her hair, roughly pulling it to the side as he began kissing her down her neck. His other hand undid the front of her corset, tossing it aside and letting her breathe freely. Strider began to run his fingers down Erza's front, his lips trailing closely behind. As he kissed her down her chest, however, Erza stopped him. She brought him back to her lips, flipping him on his back. As he did for her, she began to kiss him down the neck, her hand exploring his front. She traced the scars before hugging herself closer to him, wanting to experience how they felt against her smooth skin.
Strider quickly sat up, wrapping her legs around his waist yet again. Erza could feel him through the thin fabric that he wore. She felt her heart rate increase further, her mind awash where this might go.
"ERZA! I know you're in there!" Mira's voice came in a shout from the other side of the door.
"Fuck…" Erza groaned, resting her head against his.
"Again…" Strider sighed. Reluctantly, Erza lifted herself off of Strider and changed into her pajamas for the night. Instead of leaving immediately, she sat on the edge of his bed, wondering what to say. As she opened her mouth, however, Strider pulled her closer and kissed her again, fiercer than before. Erza moaned in pleasure as she felt his hand descend her body, resting between her thighs. She squeezed them tight, locking his hand in place; part of her wanted to continue, but the other part knew that if she didn't leave, the door would come down. She felt him break the kiss, resting his head against hers.
"I'll see you soon?" he finally asked.
"Yes," she quickly answered.
"Until then. Sweet dreams," he said, kissing her once more.
-o-
"What were you two doing?" Mira asked, her eyes narrowed.
"I didn't get a chance to dance with him at the Ball, so he offered me one right now," Erza said, mostly honest.
"And that's it?" Mira asked.
"Is this an interrogation?" Erza asked irritably before taking her leave. Sighing, Mira followed; as they shared the same room, she couldn't exactly bunk elsewhere.
-o-
As he got settled in bed, Strider felt the scars on his back ache. His mind traveled to the Century Quests he would have waiting for him when he got back to Magnolia. The thought of them excited him more than the event the kingdom was holding.
'The mountain, the shrine, and the volcano. A monster in the volcano… I wonder? Could it be? No. it can't be. Of course not,' he thought, frowning. 'Not here.'
As he tried to fall asleep quicker, he felt the three jagged scars on his back burn a bit hotter.
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone