บท 10: Ashes, the Rain, and I
"What's that?" Erza yelled as she gathered with her, Hibiki's, and Jura's group at the ground floor. The temple - no, the island itself - was beginning to rumble and shake, as though it was an -
"EARTHQUAKE!" Lucy screamed in a shrill voice. Suddenly, there was another rumble much closer to them. Debris began to fall all around as the temple began to crumble around them, massive pieces of stone falling. Jura wasted no time in setting up an earthen barrier, almost completely encasing them. Leaving small windows to look through, they saw the state of the temple.
"The sea!" Eve suddenly yelled out. Snapping their heads towards it, they saw something even more terrifying; a massive wave. It ripped and roared across the troubled waters towards the island.
"A tsunami?" Ren asked.
"No, not this soon after the quake. Whatever is going on must be connected. I'm sure of it," Jura frowned.
"The others?!" Erza shouted.
"The townspeople!" Sherry cried out, her hands flying over her mouth.
"What do we do?" Wendy asked fretfully. They all looked to Ichiya, Erza, and Jura, the three leaders of the small force.
"Jura?" Ichiya and Erza asked. As strong as either were, Jura was a Wizard Saint. His power levels were intense and magic rolled off of him in waves. He frowned as he looked straight ahead, knowing what the right thing to do was.
"I'm sure they'll be able to take care of themselves down below. Right now, we need to get down there and help as many people as possible. We'll work on stemming the tide, while they work on getting to the bottom of this," Jura said.
"Agreed," Erza nodded.
"We shall leave as soon as the quakes subside. Hibiki! Ren! Eve! You three will stay here and help coordinate, understood?" Ichiya asked.
"Yes, master!" they resounded.
-o-
"An earthquake. We never get those here," Tiasa said fretfully.
"An update from Hibiki. There's a wave heading towards the island. The others are going to help stop that as well as aid the evacuation to higher ground. We're going to continue," Strider said.
"A wave?" Tiasa whispered, eyes wide. Strider put a hand on her shoulder and cheek, making her look at him. She saw the intensity and surety in his eyes.
"Don't worry. We're going to help you all, alright? I promise," he whispered. Tiasa couldn't do anything but nod, although her face still held the signs of unease.
'Please be alright, grandfather,' she thought.
"Let's continue. This way," Juvia said, leading them through and to another room. They found their passage slightly more difficult as they soon ran into a tight room with only a small crevice to go through to continue. On the other side, Strider saw another room opening.
"Through here," he said. Juvia quickly made herself exceedingly skinny and went first. Strider looked on, intrigued by the magic.
"That's amazing," he whispered.
"What?" Tiasa said, finally snapping out of her short funk.
"That Juvia can change her body in such a way. I've never anything like it," he said.
"Ah. Yes, she appears to be an amazing Water Wizard," Tiasa said with a sad smile as she look down. She felt his hand on her shoulder again. Looking up, she saw his comforting smile.
"There's no need to beat yourself up over something like that. Magic is a fickle thing. You can't expect everyone to learn it at the same pace. Sometimes, it's more the circumstance of learning than the act of doing so," he said before beginning to go through as well. Strider had a much more difficult time as Juvia and Tiasa saw, catching several times and needing to pause to unstick his scabbard here and there. He paused three quarters of the way through and began to mutter obscenities.
"You have quite a… creative tongue," Juvia deadpanned.
"Forgive me. This is… outside of my comfort zone," he said, pausing again as the passage narrowed ever so slightly.
"Don't like narrow spaces?" Tiasa wondered as she followed, her movement graceful. Strider saw that her dress didn't seem to hinder her at all while his shirt caught here and there on the jagged edges.
"Not in the slightest. If I thought there was another way, I would've suggested that. I wouldn't say I'm claustrophobic, but this is… uncomfortable," Strider gulped. As Tiasa and Juvia look to him, they saw that he was paler than they had seen him before.
"Are you ok?" Juvia asked worriedly.
"Yeah. One minute, coming through," Strider said. Closing his eyes, he forced himself through the crevice, tear his shirt slightly as it caught some places. Finally, he was out and took a moment to recompose himself before continuing into another room. Juvia and Tiasa exchanged a glance before setting after him.
"Would you mind if we rested for a minute?" Tiasa asked after a little while.
"Sure. Best not to continue if we're not all there, anyways," Strider said with a smile as he sat down against a while, Juvia and Tiasa in front of him. Whispering a few words, Strider conjured some fire, taking the two by surprise.
"I didn't know you can use Fire Magic!" Juvia said.
"Not like Natsu or another Fire Wizard. I can create flames to keep me and others warm, but that's the extent of it. Otherwise, I have to use it with my telekinesis, but it usually ends up extinguishing the flame before it does anything," Strider said. Juvia nodded before showing off her own magic; using the moisture around them, she put up a water shield that awed both Strider and Tiasa.
"That's amazing," Strider said, touching it. The shield was thick enough to hinder his fingers and would likely offer them decent defense.
"You two are amazing," Tiasa said. Juvia blushed at the compliment but smiled.
"You're doing it again, Tiasa," Strider said.
"Doing what?" she wondered.
"Sulking."
"Oh. I'm sorry. It's not often that I see Magic beyond the little we use in lacrima's. While I've seen wizards, none have been as amazing as you all."
"You're too kind."
"I'm serious. It almost…," she trailed off.
"Almost what?" Juvia pressed.
"As I said before, while I love this island and its people, it's stifling. I do want to see the world someday. There's more to it than just here," she said with a serene smile.
"I'm sure Fairy Tail would be happy to accept you," Strider said.
"What?" she asked in surprise.
"Fairy Tail. You have an ounce of Magic, which is more than enough for Master Makarov," Strider said.
"Please stop joking at my expense," she blushed.
"Strider isn't joking. It'd be nice to have another Water Wizard around," Juvia said.
"Maybe… I'd have to speak to my grandfather about it," she said.
"You'll be free to visit, you know. Now is the ideal time to see the world, I think," Strider said.
"I'll… think about it. Although Fairy Tail…," she said, giggling.
"Ah. That reputation?" Strider laughed.
"Is it true you guys do tens of millions of jewel in damage?" Tiasa asked eagerly.
"Ughhhhh," Juvia deadpanned comically. "It's not the guild! It's mainly Gray and Natsu!"
"They've been surprisingly well behaved on the jobs I've gone on with them," Strider said.
"I can see why," Tiasa said.
"What does that mean?" he wondered.
"Oh… did I say that out loud?" she asked, turning a bright red. "Umm… I'm not sure how to explain it. You have something of a… presence."
"I hope that's a compliment," he grumbled, eliciting a giggle from the two.
"So Juvia, when did you start using your powers?" Tiasa asked. She blanched as she saw Juvia look down, smiling sadly at the ground. "Oh… I'm sorry. If you don't want to talk about it…"
"No, it's fine. I'm more comfortable speaking about it now than I've been before. My powers developed at an early age. It sounds nice but… I couldn't control them, you see. Wherever I went, the rain followed. It didn't bother me at first. I assumed it was just kids being kids but it continued as I grew older. Depressing. That was the word they always used," Juvia said softly, hugging her knees to her chest. Strider moved closer to her side, putting a hand on her shoulder. She touched it and smiled before continuing.
"I started making teru teru bōzu dolls. They're like… charms to bring good weather and stop the rain. Of course, it didn't really do anything. I had one relationship in all my life, but eventually he broke up with me because of the rain. It wasn't until I joined Phantom Lord that I felt like a I belonged somewhere. Even there, though, I was always depressed. My guild mates didn't really spend any time with me, and that which they did they wanted to fight. It wasn't until I joined Fairy Tail that I finally felt accepted somewhere. When I met Gray, the raining eventually stopped and I finally had some sunshine. But when this weather started, it started to dampen everyones mood. I think you're the only one that doesn't mind," she said, looking at Strider. He smiled at her and put his arm around her, giving her a hug. Juvia turned red but smiled and leaned in.
"As I've said, I love the rain. I like the sun as much as anyone, but it gets… stale. Perhaps it's just me, but the rain, the snow… I thrive in inclement weather, I suppose," he said.
"I'm happy to hear that," Juvia said quietly. Tiasa looked on with a smile before getting lost in her thoughts.
"That was quite a beautiful song you sang last night, by the way," Juvia suddenly said.
"You heard that?" Strider asked.
"I did. What was it about?" she wondered.
"You sing?" a bewildered Tiasa asked.
"Ha. Not like you're imagining. When you spend a lot of time traveling, you need ways to keep amused. We have many songs and poems where I'm from, so I sing them to keep myself entertained. The one from last night… mmmm… it's about a man that set out in search of a lost land to save his people from a terrible enemy. He succeeded and helped in the fight before finally taking his leave from the world," Strider said, his voice almost mournful. Tiasa and Juvia looked at each before looking at him again.
"I'd love to hear one of your songs after this is all over," Tiasa said.
"But of course," Strider acquiesced.
-o-
"This is interesting," Strider said as they continued.
"What is?" Tiasa wondered.
"There seems to be some sort of energy. I couldn't sense it in the other rooms, but it's potent here," Strider said.
"Yes, I've noted the same. I can't quite place what it is, though," Juvia said.
"I can't feel anything," Tiasa grumbled.
"Hold still for a minute," Strider said as he rounded on her. Taking her face in his hands, Strider closed his eyes and began to chant. Juvia circled them, flustering about how that was unfair but both seemed deaf to her complaints. Suddenly, Tiasa's eyes went wide as her lips parted slightly.
"Oh my…," she whispered.
"Can you feel it now?" Strider wondered.
"I… what did you do?" she asked.
"I increased your sensitivity to magic slightly. You'll be able to pick up on the subtleties around us," Strider said.
"You can do that?" Juvia asked, flabbergasted.
"It's a special kind of magic that I learned from a friend," Strider said.
"You feel this everyday?" Tiasa asked meekly.
"I try to limit it. Sometimes, it's a bit much," Strider said.
"Hmm… I'm not sure if we're feeling the same thing. I can often get a read on magic, but only in a general sense," Juvia said with a frown. She felt Striders hands on her cheek as well as he began to chant again.
"Oh no! Juvia, you're losing water!" Tiasa said in a panic. Strider laughed as he saw a slight puddle begin to form at Juvia's feet, water dripping off her as she melted at his touch. She quickly composed herself as she began to feel what Tiasa did.
"I see what you mean now. But mines more subdued. This is… a bit much," Juvia said. The cacophony of magical energy was nothing more than a slight hum to her; but now, it was more of a feral buzz attacking her on all sides. She took a few deep breaths to get accustomed to it, the noises drowning out. As she looked ahead at Strider, she noted something off.
"Strider," she said.
"Hmm?" he wondered.
"I can't seem to get a read on your magic," she said.
"That's odd," he said as they continued walking. Juvia didn't press it, but Tiasa noted that she seemed to be boring a hole through his back with how intense her stare was.
'Why can't I sense it?' Juvia wondered.
"I've never been here before," Tiasa said, looking around.
"Do you have an idea what might be here?" Juvia inquired.
"Not to well, no. My grandfather told me stories of how they offered umm…," Tiasa trailed off, shuddering at the thought.
"Sacrifices?" Strider finished for her.
"Yes. Animals and sometimes… people," Tiasa said.
"People?" Juvia asked in surprise.
"It's something that likely still goes on in parts of the world. We moved on from it a while ago, but I suppose there are some cultures or tribes that continue to use it as a method of offering to deities. Why a deity would ever command such a thing, I've no idea," Strider said.
"That's… barbaric," Juvia said.
"It is what it is," Strider replied.
"We've never done it and I can't remember a time in our recent history when we have. But if you look back far enough, you'll find cases," Tiasa said.
"I think we already have," Strider grimaced.
"What do-," Juvia said as she bumped into Strider, with Tiasa bumping into her. As they peeked around his frame, they grimaced as well. In front of them were several old bones postured against the wall. Skulls lay on small outcrops designed as ledges. The eyeless crevice looked back at them, unknowing, unseeing, unsettling.
"That's…," Juvia trailed off.
"Yeah," Strider said. He approached one and touched it.
"Should you really be touching that? What if it's carrying a disease or something?" Tiasa asked fretfully.
"We should be fine. Hmm… I can't get a read on them," he frowned.
"They're dead," Juvia reminded him.
"I know. But where you find bodies, you find some traces of remaining energy. But here, there's none. These must've been down here for quite a while. Centuries," Strider said.
"Let's continue. Please," Tiasa said.
"Right," Strider nodded. They continued going on there way when they suddenly heard a loud crash.
"This way," Juvia said, quickly running in the direction of the sound. As they hurried through a couple more rooms, they found the source. Natsu, Gajeel, Gray, and Lyon appeared to be in the middle of a brawl.
"WHAT?! YOU CAN'T BLAME THAT ON ME!" Gajeel yelled, punching Natsu.
"OF COURSE I CAN!" Natsu yelled back.
"STOP STRIPPING!" Lyon screamed at Gray.
"WHAT?! SAYS THE NUDIST!" Gray yelled back.
"They're… fighting? At a time like this?" Tiasa asked, slightly hurt. Her people might be dying outside, while the Dragon Slayers and Ice Wizards were arguing amongst each other. Suddenly, all four found their bodies still. Gajeel and Natsu were both mid punch, while Gray and Lyon had retracted their hands, beginning to pounce. They looked at Strider, who had a cold gaze in his eyes.
"What are you four doing?" he inquired quietly.
"Woah. That's some strong magic," Gray said, trying to move but unable to.
"We fell down here and tried to look around! Gajeel kept getting us lost!" Natsu yelled.
"ME?! You're the one that suggested we try this room!" Gajeel yelled back.
"Enough. All of you," Strider said, releasing them and sighing deeply.
"Hey, I can feel myself again," Natsu blinked, flexing his fingers.
"Is that your magic?" Lyon asked.
"It is. Why aren't you four looking around? Didn't you get Hibikis message?" Strider asked.
"Message? What message?" Natsu asked.
"You didn't hear that there's a massive wave heading towards the island?" Strider asked, eyebrow raised.
"Last thing I heard was that rumble," Gajeel said looking around.
"We haven't heard anything either," Gray said.
"Odd. We received it… but that was before we went into a room," Strider said, eyes narrowed as he looked around. He drew his sword, something that put the others on edge.
"What? You feel something?" Lily asked.
"I'm not sure. But if they didn't get the message and we did, then I think it stands to reason there's something inhibiting telepathy here. Better safe than sorry," Strider said.
"I can't seem to get in contact with him either," Juvia confirmed.
"That's no good," Tiasa said tentatively.
"What do we do now?" Happy asked.
"Continue. No point in going back now," Strider said.
"Are you sure that's wise? Perhaps we should wait for the others," Tiasa suggested.
"They're going to have their hands full for a while. We can't just sit and wait for them. But if you'd like to leave, I understand. This must be especially difficult on you," Strider said kindly. Tiasa looked at him for a long moment before shaking her head.
"No. You're right. The sooner we solve this, the safer it'll be for everyone. Let's go," Tiasa said.
-o-
"I haven't gotten word from the others yet," Hibiki thought to Jura, Erza, and Ichiya.
"What do you mean?" Erza inquired.
"There might be some sort of interference, but I can't get through to them," Hibiki explained.
"Keep trying," Erza said, although she knew it was no use. Hibiki was no slouch when it came to Telepathy. If he couldn't communicate with the others, there was likely a problem. However, it was no easier on them. Bashing against the beach were storm surges that towered over them. Jura had set up a massive defensive wall and continued to tear through the surges with his attacks. Erza had shifted into her Sea Empress Armor and was able to easily brute force waves coming her way with the blue-green sword she wielded. Townsfolk stared at the two in awe.
"Lucy, shouldn't you summon Aquarius?" Wendy asked as she cut through an oncoming wave with her own magic.
"Uhh… I don't think that'd be the best idea," Lucy lamented as she helped some townsfolk escape to higher ground with supplies.
"I believe she's correct on this. That Spirit might do more damage," Carla sighed, lifting a child to higher ground.
"Do you think the others will be ok?" Sherry asked.
"I'm sure they will be. As foolish as they are, Gajeel, Natsu, Gray, and Lyon are quite powerful. Juvia excels in water and Tiasa will be able to guide them. And Strider is able to take care of himself," Erza said.
-o-
"Looks like we're going in deeper," Lyon said.
"Will you cover up already?" Gray hissed.
"You first!" Lyon pointed out.
"Let's find whatever's behind this so I can pummel it," Natsu said, punching his fist into an open palm.
"Let's not be too eager to fight. If whatever it is can control the weather, they're likely to be powerful," Strider said.
"We've taken on powerful guys before! We got this," Natsu said confidently.
"You appear to be more cautious than your guildmates," Tiasa noted.
"Ingrained in me from a young age. I can't seem to break the habit," Strider said.
"Do you think you're right?" she wondered.
"I'm not quite sure yet, to be honest. It's to early to say. I hope it's something we can solve without a fight - especially if this turns out to be the work of deities," Strider said.
"And if it does become a fight?" she inquired.
"We fight back," Strider stated. He saw Tiasa shift uncomfortably; having an idea of what was going through her mind, he put a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Whatever the problem, we're here to solve it."
"Thank you," she whispered. Off to the side, Juvia was grumbling.
"Juvia," Lyon suddenly said.
"Hmm?" she wondered, still looking at Strider.
"Perhaps once this is over, you and I can get dinner," Lyon said. Strider chuckled as he looked to Juvia who seemed to blushing a bright and maddening red. As she was about to reply, the rumbling started again.
"Another quake?" Gajeel asked.
"Perhaps. Let's hurry. It seems as though we might getting closer. Do you hear that?" Strider asked. They listened intently and soon understood what he was saying. Over the quake, there was an audible hum - something that almost seemed to override the quake itself. As they kept going through the rooms, the hum grew louder and louder. Finally, the group arrived in a massive room and saw a faint glow in the center.
"Looks like we're he-," Gajeel began before another voice overrode him.
"Who goes there?" it sounded, reverberating off the walls before striking their ears. It was loud, but calm and soothing at the same time. They edged closer before Strider responded.
"Wizards. With whom do I have the pleasure of speaking?" he asked.
"With whom do I have the pleasure of speaking?" Gajeel deadpanned. The others seemed just as surprised with the formal approach.
"If we treat with a deity, it would be wise to show respect. Doesn't help that I'm used to talking like this," Strider said.
"An intelligent one, it appears. Mmm… I sense your presence, Wizards. Two Water Wizards; two Ice Wizards; four Dragon Slayers; two flying creatures with them; and one more… but I cannot identify your magic. You are the one that spoke. State your name," the voice demanded.
"I would ask my host to divulge first," Strider said.
"Hmph. Tohil," it said. Tiasa gasped; that was their Sun God.
"I see. My name is Strider," he replied.
"Strider. Strider. Strider. Strider. Odd. It seems more a title than a name," Tohil said.
"It serves as both. It has since I was a child," Strider said.
"Ah. I see. Yes, very well. What brings you here, Wizards?" Tohil asked.
"The rainfall has been staggering - not just in Fiore, but in several countries. We observed that the problems emanated from this temple," Strider said.
"Oya…," Tohil said, sighing. The group immediately covered their eyes as a massive flash of light attacked their eyes. They regretted doing so almost immediately as they felt their arms begin to burn. As soon as it happened, however, it began to die down. Uncovering, they looked on in awe as a man stood before them. He wore a golden robe and held a trident in his hands. He had shoulder length hair as well as a small beard and wizened old eyes.
"Tohil," Tiasa whispered before falling to her knees and whispering prayers. Strider looked to her before looking at Tohil who observed her with a smile.
"Rise, child," he said. Tiasa gulped and did so. His eyes washed over the others, all of whom were on edge; before landing on Strider, who stared back at him. "Greetings."
"It is good to see you, lord," Strider said, putting a hand across his chest and bowing slightly. The others didn't, but Tohil didn't seem to mind.
"How long has the rainfall gone on?" Tohil wondered.
"A month or so in Fiore, with it starting a little earlier than that around this island," Strider answered.
"Do your companions not know how to speak?" Tohil wondered.
"Should you address them directly, I imagine they will," Strider replied.
"Ha. Is this how your show your respect?" Tohil wondered.
"Should you address them directly, I imagine they will, lord," Strider rephrased, earning a chuckle from the deity.
"A clever one, I see. Very well, Strider. A month and longer… yes, I was afraid of that," Tohil sighed.
"My Lord, what is happening? Our companions said that waves are heading for the island - the people!" Tiasa cried out.
"Oya…," Tohil sighed again.
"The Goddess of Rain?" Tiasa asked.
"Yes. Has it been so long already?" Tohil asked distantly, his eyes misting slightly as he gripped his trident with both hands before looking down.
"So long?" Tiasa wondered.
"It has been centuries since we first came to this island. At that time, it was but a small piece of land in this bay between the countries of Fiore and Seven. But it was so charming, so beautiful - that we couldn't stay away. The rain was hearty, the waters swelling, and the sun beat down - an odd pairing, but one that endured for countless time. Then the people soon came to our land. We didn't mind; they made offering continually to us, equal in good times and bad. Fruits, vegetables, people, animals, finery… everything. Even 'til now, they continue - in weather that can kill a man in a night. I know the rain of which you speak. It falls and cuts like glass, does it not?" Tohil asked.
"It does," Gray answered, looking at his own arm.
"Yes. I was afraid that this might happen, but have anticipated it nonetheless. The waves… when did they start?" Tohil asked.
"Only today," Tiasa said. "It was only rain and some rising water before, but the waves are new."
"Forgive me, child," Tohil said.
"Forgive, my lord?" Tiasa asked, her voice rising and laced with fear.
"Forgive a foolish man in love," he sighed. Strider noticed him gripping his trident even harder; his knuckles appeared ready to break through the skin.
"I do not know what you mean," Tiasa said.
"I think I might…," Strider frowned. Tohil looked at him and sighed.
"Yes. Yes, you know. I can tell," he said. The others looked at Strider but Tohil continued. "It is my fault that it got to this stage… that the rain didn't stop a month ago. Oya… is dying."
Silence quickly fell on the others as they looked bewildered by the statement, none more than Tiasa.
"My lord?" she squeaked.
"Even Gods have an end, my dear - longer than others, but an end nonetheless. Oya is at hers. It is my fault… that of a foolish man in love. She is dying, you see. I… neglected to finish her when I had the chance. And now I fear it might be to late. Forgive me," he said, bowing his head to Tiasa.
"What do you mean? Too late?" Tiasa asked fretfully.
"If a God dies naturally, their body is returned to their element - in Oya's case, the rain. However… it is possible for a God to overstay their welcome. It has an effect on their element, sending it wild and out of control. Oya… Oya was going to die decades ago, but our love was strong. I… was foolish. I convinced her to extend her life unnaturally as we looked for a way to continue, but our attempt bore no fruit. And now, your people are paying the price. That blame falls on me," Tohil said.
"My lord…," Tiasa said uncomfortably.
"What can we do now? Is there a way to stop it?" Natsu asked.
"I cannot invo-," Tohil began but was cut off.
"Screw that! We're here to help! Besides, our friends are fight the waves out there! We have to do what we can!" Natsu said urgently. Tohil looked at everyone before sighing.
"She would annihilate you at this stage," he warned them.
"We're tougher than you think," Gray said.
"Thank you Wizards… I know not what to say," Tohil said, closing his eyes.
"Just tell us where to go," Gray said.
"Are you in concert? Those that wish to turn should do so now. I will be leading you into the final chamber - her room. Once there, we cannot leave until it is done," Tohil said.
"We are," Gajeel said. Tohil nodded and stepped to the side, showing them the room. They began walking, Tohil and Strider bringing up the rear.
"You convinced her to continue beyond her life?" Strider inquired.
"I did. A foolish decision. I had hoped… we would find a way to stop it. But alas, we couldn't," Tohil said.
"What can we expect in there?" Strider asked.
"I haven't visited her in years, only communicating from a distance. Her room is smaller than my chamber - this one - although she has her guards standing by. They are made of water," Tohil said.
"Interesting. Good thing we have Wizards capable of defeating them," Strider said.
"I cannot get a read on your Magic. Where do you come from? You are obviously not from Ishgar," Tohil said.
"The Northern Continent. As a God, do you know of it?" Strider asked.
"I know that I know nothing of it. I am a God, yes, but my power has been limited to Ishgar. We are not the all powerful, infallible beings that humans have concocted - that much is evident. And after living here so long, I am used to this place. I've no desire to leave until my time is at hand," Tohil said.
"I see," was all Strider said. "If you met your demise before hers, would you have done the same thing?"
"An intriguing question. I know not. Perhaps, perhaps not," Tohil said.
"A vague answer," Strider said.
"The best I can offer for now," Tohil sighed. "We will be approaching soon. Stay on your guard."
"Will you speak with her?" Strider asked.
"I will try," Tohil said.
"My lord - do you think we will succeed?" Tiasa asked.
"I hope so, my dear," Tohil said with a smile. Tiasa sighed before nodding and looking at Strider.
"How are you doing with this?" he asked kindly.
"I'm not sure. I am overjoyed to learn that Tohil and Oya have watched over our island for a long time, however," she said, trying to smile.
"It must be a comfort knowing that your Gods are on your side," Strider said.
"It truly is. I am thankful. Thank you, Tohil," Tiasa said, bowing to him.
"It has been my honor, my dear," Tohil nodded.
"Strider," Tiasa said.
"Hmm?" he asked.
"This is sudden, but after we return to the island, there's something I wish to speak with you about," Tiasa said with a slight blush.
"Oh? What is it?" Strider asked.
"I… would prefer to hold on until knowing we succeed," Tiasa said.
"Now we have to. I'm dying to know what it is," Strider said with a smile.
"I'm certain we will," Tiasa said firmly, resolving herself as much as she could. While the terror of not doing so loomed large, she knew that she had to - for her people.
"Strider," Juvia called out from front. "Come join me, please."
"Coming," Strider said.
"Be prepared, Strider. If I cannot read your Magic, Oya will not either. We have the slightest moments advantage. You must seize it if we are to succeed. I shall bring up the rear," Tohil said. Strider nodded and joined Juvia up front.
"What's up?" he wondered.
"Oh, I just want to be close to you," she said, hearts in her eyes as she wrapped her arms around his. Strider chuckled and nodded, continuing.
"This doesn't freak you out?" Gray asked.
"Not at all. Juvia is quite beautiful, after all," Strider said.
"This makes us rivals!" Lyon declared. Strider sighed but didn't answer, continuing to let Juvia hold on to him as they continued.
-o-
"Thank you, Wizards!" Eurotas said, panting as he took a rest. They had finally evacuated the people on the island to the highest point. The waves were still hammering down below, but the damage would only be limited to that which could be rebuilt.
"You're welcome. Let's hurry now!" Erza shouted to the others.
"Bad news - we still can't communicate with them," Hibiki informed them.
"There must be some strong inhibiting magic down there. Perhaps it's from the deities they mentioned?" Jura offered.
"A good guess. Let's go," Ichiya said.
"Where's the entrance?" Lucy asked.
"It should be here. It appears there's quite a bit of debris blocking it, however. Jura?" Erza said. Nodding, Jura got to work in breaking the rock as best as he could; but as they continued, they saw that it continued for a while.
"This will be slow. I don't want to destroy the temple if I don't have to," Jura said.
"Understood," Erza said. 'Be safe, everyone. We'll be there soon.'
-o-
"This is the entrance to the chamber. There is no going back after this," Tohil said.
"There's never any going back. Let's go!" Natsu cried as he quickly busted the door open. The group slowly entered, keeping on edge to make sure nothing caught them unawares. The entire room was filled with a bluish glow, particularly powerful from a small pool ahead of them. It shimmered, reflected off the glistening walls and offering them light.
"Oya, come forth. It is time," Tohil called out.
"To…Hil?" Oya called out.
"My dear! Do not worry! I am here," Tohil cried back.
"Is… it here?" Oya asked.
"Is what here?" Strider inquired.
"Who speaks?" the deity asked.
"Strider. A Wizard," he answered.
"Wiz…ard?" Oya said.
"Yes. You seem to be in pain," Strider said.
"A wise de…duc…tion," Oya said, her voice breaking.
'She appears to be quite weak,' Strider thought.
"Oya, come forth," Tohil said. As before, there was another flash of light - but this one much more subdued. While Tohil's forced them to cover their face, this light barely made them squint. A moment later, a woman with flowing black hair stood in front of them, her beauty still radiant. She wore a flowing robe of water, her hands spread to the side before resting on her body. She looked at Strider and Juvia first before washing her eyes over the Dragon Slayers and Ice Wizards, the Exceeds, and finally Tiasa and Tohil. She smiled as she saw him.
"Wond…erful," Oya said. The pool behind her began to bubble and several humanoid figures jumped out of it. Everyone looked on in surprise as they were surrounded. The creatures looked like humans, but with bodies made of water. Each had three spikes on their head as well as unseeing eyes and unspeaking mouths. They bared their watery talons at the Wizards, all of were on edge now.
"Uh… Sun guy? Might wanna make your move now," Lyon said.
"Yes… forgive me, Wizards," he whispered. Striders had snapped back to see what he want before his eyes widened in horror.
Tohil had reared his trident and shoved it through Tiasa's back. The surprise of the attack overtook any scream she might've uttered. Her eyes went wide as she looked down and saw her stomach, pancreas, and liver erupted from her body, soaking her beautiful dress a bloody red. She looked up and saw the look of shock and fury on Striders face. The others soon looked back and had equal reaction.
"No! What've you done?!" Strider roared as he rushed forward and blasted Tohil back. As the trident tore back, it ruptured her lung and let the organs fall to the floor. He grabbed Tiasa's body and brought her to the ground, his hands running over her stomach, his mouth opening and closing shock.
"You…," Gajeel snarled at the Sun God who got to his feet, frowning.
"Forgive me," he said.
"FORGIVE?! WHAT THE HELL DID YOU DO, YOU BASTARD?!" Natsu roared as he shot flame at him. Gray, Gajeel, and Lyon joined in the attack while Juvia rushed to Strider, her eyes wide open in fear.
"No, no, no… Tiasa! Tiasa!" she yelled, trying to urge the girl awake.
"I…," Tiasa whispered before blood erupted from her mouth and splashed onto Strider. He wiped it away before cradling her in his arms.
"No, stay with us… please stay with us," Juvia urged.
"Stri…," Tiasa said, looking at him.
"Yes?" he asked, his voice oddly devoid of emotion. Juvia looked to him and saw the blank look where the terror had been.
"I…," Tiasa said again.
"Take your time, Tiasa. There's no need to rush. We're going to make it out of here, alright? Don't worry!" Juvia cried out, taking the girls hand in hers. Strider and Juvia were both suddenly blown back by the water finds that had come out of the pool. As Strider got back to his feet, he saw Oya approaching Tiasa's body. The girl looked on in fear, her chest rising and falling as her life dwindled further.
"What have you done?" Strider whispered. Oya didn't answer and continued, while Tohil reared to attack. However, they both soon felt an overwhelming pressure in the room. Looking at Strider, they saw a look of unbridled fury. He snarled at a fiend before raising his hand and blowing it back. "ANSWER ME!" he roared at the Gods.
"You would not understand," Tohil snarled back at him.
"Try me," Strider said.
"Off…ering," Tiasa groaned. Tohil sighed and nodded.
"There is one way for a God to extend their life," Tohil said. "We can claim a humans life to extend ours. The people on this island halted their sacrifices so long ago, but we endured. We thought we could subside on their offerings… but we could not. We required living sacrifices. Forgive me, Wizards. I did not want it to come to this, but it is. I humbly beg you to leave the islander and take your leave. Once Oya is healed, she will be able to rein in the forces. All will be well," Tohil said.
"So long as the people keep giving up lives to you?" Strider inquired.
"Not often. Once every century will be enough. Please, Wizard. You must see this from our perspective," Tohil urged.
"You killed her," Strider whispered.
"I-," Tohil began.
"No. No more talking. There's only one way this ends," Strider said, his voice trembling. He lunged forward at Tohil and locked his sword with the God, his teeth bared as he laced each strike with fury.
"Tohil-!" Oya cried out. She was about to attack but a telekinetic burst sent her back.
"TAKE CARE OF HER!" Strider roared at his companions who burst back and attacked Oya. Juvia got Tiasa out of the way while Gray and Lyon got to work on the water fiends, protecting the two. Gajeel and Natsu began to attack Oya, who was able to match them.
"What-," Tohil said before Strider turned to him.
"How dare you!" he snarled, kicking the God in the chest and sending him back. Tohil held his trident out, prepared to strike as he edged closer to Strider, a frown on his face.
"This is-," Tohil said before Strider locked weapons with him again.
"No. You will not have more sacrifices. We'll end you both today. The island will endure - you will not!" Strider said. Tohil ducked under a slash and swiped at Strider with his trident, cutting his shirt open and spilling blood.
"We are Gods, Wizard! How can you defeat us?!" Tohil demanded.
"You will see. You can at least take comfort in one bit of knowledge, however," Strider said.
"And what is that?" Tohil asked as he blocked Strider again. Strider leaned through the gap in their weapons and spoke low so that no one but Tohil could hear him.
"That I will join you and your love in death," he said scathingly before rearing his head back and head butting the deity. "You're quite weak for a God!"
"DO NOT SPEAK DOWN TO ME!" Tohil roared back at him, lunging with the trident.
'They were both not offered sacrifices for centuries. It appears as though he's a bit more powerful than her, but this works in our favor. They're both in a weakened state,' Strider thought, blocking the tridents. Even at his weakest, however, Tohil was quite strong. The years didn't limit his mobility much, Strider thought; he was lithe and agile with his trident, able to strike in ways that he wasn't used to. His sword caught several times between the points and the two had a test of strength to see who would prevail. Tohil would push forward before Strider would push back at him, both snarling at each other like beasts.
-o-
"Damn, this chick is strong," Gajeel said, wiping away a bit of trickling blood. Oya was able to use Water Magic at a level that was above Juvia's.
"FIRE DRAGON ROAR!" Natsu yelled, sending a splurge of fire at the deity. She sacrificed a water fiend, creating a steam explosion that blinded the Dragon Slayers. They were barely able to dodge a thin slice of water she sent at them, one that could've done some damage.
"Tsk. Dragon Slayers that never slew a dragon. Such a farce," Oya said, continuing her attack.
"You're one to talk, lady! Have you two been cooped up here all this time?!" Gajeel asked.
"Do not speak to a Goddess like that!" Oya yelled.
"Screw you! She worshiped you and you try to kill her!" Natsu yelled angrily.
"One human life for ours! You cannot equate the two. Leave now and you will be forgiven," Oya said.
"Screw that! We're not leaving until we kick both of your asses!" Gajeel yelled, hitting her dead on with an Iron Dragon Roar that buffeted her back.
-o-
"OYA!" Tohil yelled. He attempted to leap to her aid but found his body stopped and buffeted back into the wall - hard. As he opened his eyes, he saw Strider looming over him.
"You can save her once you're done with me," he said in a menacing voice, bringing his sword down. Tohil dodged it and managed to get another strike in with his lance, nailing Strider in the side. Strider grunted but grabbed the lance, keeping it in place. He returned the favor and stabbed Tohil in the side as well. The deity grunted as yellowish blood began to pour out. The others turned as they heard Strider chuckle.
"What do you know? Gods do bleed."
"How dare you?" Tohil asked, grunting again as Strider twisted the sword. Tohil replied by jamming the lance in further.
"How dare I? How dare you?!" Strider snarled back. He reared his head and head butted Tohil. The lance came free as the deity was buffeted back. As he regained his bearings, he saw Strider coming at him again. He shoved the sword through his shoulder before kicking Tohil in the chest. As he pressed his advantage, Tohil evaded yet again and paused to get his bearings.
"Does one human life mean that much to you?" he asked, panting.
"It does," Strider said.
"Why?! We have done good for this island! Why can't you see that?!" Tohil asked.
"Because you're cruel! Why should they have to offer their lives to you?!" Strider inquired.
"A small price to pay," Oya answered as she locked Gajeel and Natsu yet again.
"I'm sure they'll say the same of you," Strider said. He thrust his hand out at Tohil who felt his body unable to move again.
"What is this?!" he asked, trying to break free of his invisible restraints.
"It appears that you really have lost a lot of your power. You might be stronger than her, but the lack of sacrifices have made you weak. Just as well, I suppose; we might not have been able to fight you if you were at your strongest. You aren't now, however; and it appears you've lost quite a bit of blood. This is the end," Strider said. He smashed Tohil into the wall and more blood poured out.
"TOHIL!" Oya cried out. Gajeel and Natsu wouldn't let her interfere. "DO NOT INTERFERE, DRAGON SLAYERS!"
She hit both of them with a massive burst of water that buffeted them into the wall. As she approached, Strider looked at her with a cold gaze. He threw Tohil's body at her, sending them both to the ground. The fiends, many of whom were frozen solid by Gray and Lyon, gathered around them and looked at Strider. One by one they began to attack. The others moved in, but stopped as they saw Strider effortlessly cut his way through.
He thrust his sword up and out the neck of the first fiend which soon collapsed into a puddle; the second, he stabbed directly through the stomach and applied a telekinetic burst, spraying the body everywhere; the third, he sliced off the right arm before cutting it half and bursting it; the fourth and fifth, he stabbed at the same time through the chest before retracting his blade and slicing their heads off, bursting the little that remained of their bodies; the sixth, he rushed, jumping slightly and thrust his sword through the neck. Nothing stood between him and the deities, both of whom looked angrily at him.
"What will you do now?" Tohil asked.
"We can defeat them, my love!" Oya shrieked.
"We could've, Oya… had the humans continued to offer us what we needed, we could've easily disposed of these children. But we are weak… look," Tohil said, showing her his bloodied hand. Strider saw blue tears begin to fall from Oya's eyes as she looked down at her lover, gently caressing her cheek.
"My love," she whispered.
"Forgive me. I've failed you," he whispered.
"You've failed these people. You've failed this island," Strider said, gripping his sword.
"Juvia! How is she?!" Lyon asked, kneeling at Tiasa's side. The redhead was sputtering blood everywhere, her eyes plastered wide open.
"Can you two do anything for her?" Gray asked.
"What?" Tohil asked in surprise.
"Her - TIASA! She's an islander - she's lived here since she was a little girl! She loves the rain! Can you help her? You're Gods, aren't you?!" Gray asked angrily.
"No. They're minor deities. They can control their elements, but they can't heal her - especially not if they did the damage," Strider said.
"He's… correct," Tohil said, gasping as a shock of pain went through him.
"WHY THE HELL DID YOU STAB HER IN THE FIRST PLACE?! SHE DIDN'T DESERVE THAT!" Natsu screamed. The two didn't reply, continuing to look at the redhead who kept on spilling blood.
"What do you intend to do with us?" Oya asked. Strider saw her gently contort her hands and let out a mirthless scoff.
"Your power is gone. You won't be summoning any more soldiers," he said.
"How…," Tiasa suddenly said.
"How? How what, Tiasa?" Juvia asked, caressing her face as tears continued to fall. She had never held a dying person in her arms.
"How… save… land," Tiasa managed to say.
"She's asking how we save the island!" Juvia cried out.
"Huh…," Oya scoffed. Strider turned his eyes to her and brought the sword to her shoulder. Tohil looked at him and grabbed it, slicing his hand open.
"What're you doing?!" he demanded.
"Once she's gone, the rain will stop, won't it? Her fluctuating life is making the rainfall here fluctuate. I imagine that because of your blood loss, the sun is probably out now as well - in full force on this part of the continent. It must be an odd sight for the people. But once you two are gone, it'll settle down. The people might not have the crop they've always had, but they won't be at the mercy of capricious deities," Strider said.
"You canno-" Tohil began before Strider reared the blade and thrust it at her chest. However, he stopped short of piercing it. The others looked at him, wondering what stopped him and saw that he had turned a pale white. As he saw that, Tohil chuckled.
"Can't do it, can you?" he asked, satisfied. Strider offered no response, pondering his next move.
"The boy can't kill us," Oya said, letting out a short laugh as well.
"What do we do?" Natsu asked.
"You guys - take Tiasa and get out of here," Strider ordered.
"What about you?" Gajeel asked.
"Don't worry about me. They can't do anything - they've lost most of their power and will to fight. I'll figure something out. Just go. You'll all need to work together. Juvia, keep her safe. Every one else - tear apart this place if you have to," Strider said. They hesitated to go but eventually nodded and left.
-o-
"What do you think he's going to do?" Juvia asked tentatively, making sure that Tiasa wasn't moved to much. Natsu and Gajeel poured all of their anger into their attacks as demolished everything in their way. Gray and Lyon were ahead of them, freezing and buttering things up.
"Hope he knocks them both the hell out," Gajeel snarled.
"I can't believe they…," Juvia cried, looking at the redhead. Her eyes were hardly blinking, something that terrified her. The others paused and looked at Tiasa, fear and terror going through their being.
-o-
"What do you intend to do with us?" Oya demanded as the others left. Strider sheathed his blade and kneeled down, wrenching Tohil's trident from his hands. The deity tried to hold on but felt his power wane; he couldn't offer much resistance.
"They're too young for this," he said with a frown.
"You're not much older" Tohil spat.
"Except I know," Strider said.
"Know what?" Tohil asked.
"What it means to take a life. I didn't want them to see that," Strider said, looking at them. Raising his hand, the room began to rumble and shake. As the two deities looked around, they saw rock and debris begin to fall; the room was beginning to crumble.
-o-
"ANOTHER QUAKE!" Juvia yelled as they hurried. The four men broke through the wall with the crevice so that Juvia and Tiasa could easily make it through. They were soon in the room with the massive pool and waterfall, the waters churning.
-o-
As the two deities looked at Strider, they noted the sword on his hip begin to shake gently. Their eyes narrowed before widening in fear as they felt a palpable dread wash over the room.
"Your sword," Oya said, forgetting her position. Without a word, Strider drew it. He looked at his sword, the partner he had traveled with for years now. He saw his own face reflected in the stark blade before feeling it squirm gently in his hand. It pointed itself at the deities who attempted to move back.
"It…," Tohil coughed.
"You feel it, can't you?" Strider asked in a low voice, turning the hilt in his hands. In his rage, he had forgotten something. Finally, he looked at the two, hatred in his eyes.
"This was your choice," Strider whispered. Oya and Tohil's eyes went wide as he reared the blade.
-o-
"HEY! WHAT HAPPENED?!" Natsu asked as Strider came running; the quakes had subsided.
"Another quake. That room is… buried," Strider said.
"Buried?! In rock?!" Lyon asked in shock.
"Yup. The last two rooms - both their chambers," Strider nodded.
"Are they…," Happy asked, gulping.
"You probably don't want the details. It's… not a nice sight," Strider grimaced.
"Yeah… probably not. If the rooms are buried, then…," Gray gulped.
"Tiasa," Strider said, leaning down.
"Please… stop," Tiasa said, bloodied tears trailing down her cheeks.
"We can't. You have to go see your grandfather, remember? You have to talk to him about leaving this island for a little while. You have to go see the world," Strider said, taking her hand in his. She offered him a smile, taking his hand and putting it on her cheek.
"Your hands," she whispered.
"You can hold them as much as you want once we get out of here," Strider said.
"I want," she said. Strider nodded, urging her to continue. "Fairy… Tail."
"You want to join? Master Makarov would love that!" Juvia said, tears trailing down her cheeks as well. Tiasa looked at her before looking at the others, her eyes finally resting on Strider. As they did, Strider gulped. Tiasa let out a pained gasp as her eyes stopped moving and blinking, open as they stared lifelessly at the others. He moved his hand to her neck, looking for a pulse; he continued to her heart, looking for a beat. Strider lowered his head, biting his lip viciously while the others looked on helplessly.
"No, no! TIASA!" Juvia yelled, cradling the Water Wizards dead body in her arms. She hugged the girl tightly, hoping this was all a sick joke. After several minutes however, Juvia found it was real; that Tiasa was dead.
"Oh, no," Lyon said, running his hands over his face.
"DAMN IT!" Natsu roared, the anger of his fire spreading. Gray leaned down on his knees, his head hanging in his hands while Gajeel leaned on a while, trying to get himself under control.
"Strider - we can still…," Juvia began but stopped as she saw his blank expression. He cradled Tiasa in his arms and slowly began to levitate the others. Without a word or comment, they flew to the top of the waterfall and began to make their exit.
-o-
"Stri- oh, no," Erza said, eyes widening in horror as they saw him and the others come through. Juvia had tears streaming down her face while Gajeel, Natsu, Gray, and Lyon looked down in anger and self-loathing. As Strider laid Tiasa down, the others gathered around.
"What happened?" Jura asked urgently.
"The deities of the island. They wanted to sacrifice her to extend their own life," Strider said.
"What?" Jura asked.
"Oya and Tohil - the rain goddess and sun god; centuries ago, they were brought human sacrifices. The people were sacrificed and that helped sustain the deities. However, it's a practice most cultures move away from. The rain goddes, Oya, was at the end of her life, unable to sustain herself without another tribute; that's why the rain has been so out of control - her life force was having an impact on the elements. Tohil… the Sun God - he stabbed Tiasa. I couldn't stop it in time," Strider said.
"Don't blame yourself for this!" Juvia cried out, grabbing on to his arm. Strider didn't reply, looking at Tiasa's body.
"Tiasa…" Eurotas said, coming up on the body. As he saw her, he fell to his knees, tears spilling harder than the rain ever could. He cradled her body with his own and cried and wailed loudly, over the still raging storm.
"The weather will subside," Strider said, looking up. While it was still storming, the rainfall had slowed ever so slightly.
"Wizards…," Eurotas said.
"Yes?" Strider whispered, leaning down.
"The Gods…," he said, looking at him.
"An earthquake buried them," Strider said.
"Good," Eurotas snarled, spitting on the ground he used to worship.
"What do we do now?" Gray asked.
"We shall take care of the rest. It is our duty to bury our people. We thank you for your help," Eurotas said.
"We don't mind helping further," Ichiya said.
"No. Please… leave this to us," Eurotas said. He felt Strider put an arm on his shoulder. Looking down, Strider brought another hand to Tiasa's eyes and shut them.
"Man ammen toltha,
I dann hen morn,
Si dannatha,
Nauva,
Melmemma nóren sina,
nur ala ëaro nur… Forgive me," Strider whispered under his breath. Finally he stood up and along with the others, turned and left. As they descended, Eurotas continued to cry over his granddaughter.
-o-
The group broke apart with barely a goodbye and headed towards their respective guilds, hearts heavy with sadness. Wendy hugged Strider tightly, burying her head in his side as she continued to cry on the journey. While she didn't know Tiasa well at all, the sight of the body had impacted her greatly. Juvia was at his other side, crying her eyes out. She had begun to like the girl. Having never met another Water Wizard, she finally had a kindred spirit that could've joined the guild, but she would never know now. The journey on the train was only interrupted by the sniffling; otherwise, it was completely silent.
-o-
As Mira saw them come in, she offered a bright smile which immediately turned into a frown. The rain was falling, albeit much lighter, and the group was drenched. Strider looked at her and conjured a small, pained smile before he leaned down and gave Wendy a hug before heading to his room. Wendy, Erza, and Juvia headed to Fairy Hills without saying anything, while Lucy went back to her apartment; Gray and Natsu fell into their seats, heads hanging in their hands. The other guild members looked at each other but opted to say nothing until they knew a bit more.
Finishing up the few duties she had for the light day, Mira went upstairs and knocked on Striders door. Hearing him say "Enter" she walked in, her hands folded above her heart as she looked at him with a frown. As he looked up, she saw that his face indicated that he was immensely tired. She went over and hugged him, saying nothing but letting the gentle and warm touch convey her thoughts. Strider paused before returning the embrace, resting his head against his shoulders as he sighed.
'Very similar to her indeed. The hair, the touch, the warmth… everything,' he thought before snapping out of it. As he reared back, however, he couldn't stop himself; bringing a hand up, he caressed her cheek gently and stared intensely at her. Mira blushed a gentle red before sitting next to him.
"Are you ok?" she inquired quietly.
"As ok as I can be. The job took a… turn," Strider said, mindlessly taking her hand in his and gently caressing it with a thumb. Mira looked at him worriedly, not even registering the touch; all she saw was the distant look in his eye. She was about to ask what that meant before deciding against it. Bringing her hands to his face, she looked at him with kind eyes before bringing him in for another hug, saying nothing and letting her touch convey everything.
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