Merry Christmas and a soon to be happy new year. I hope the new year brings everyone everything they are hoping for. I may not be able to deliver that, but I will be continuing writing which I hope is at least something.

I have also been going through and clearing out stories I no longer like to read, as I find reading too many fics that aren't written quite well actually makes me not want to write because I avoid reading them, meaning I avoid all alerts in my inbox, so it stays full and my motivation stays empty. By the time of the new year, I will only have stories I think are good left to read so hopefully it will give me a new burst of writing energy.
That's all for now and I hope you enjoy!
SSJ3 Kyuubi Gohan.

Previously:
After recruiting Wendy and Carla; Natsu, Happy, Meredy and Flare begun to make their way back to Mercurius. Hisui received word that Natsu had been spotted heading back to Mercurius, causing her to start preparing for his arrival. Reaching the last stop on their little trip around the world, the group found Yukino, a girl who believed herself to be a source of bad luck. After beating up the bandit who had come to steal Yukino's key, the young girl joined the group on their journey, as they headed back to the palace.

Disclaimer – I don't own anything from the Fairy Tail anime/manga. All I own are my original characters and plot twists.

'Talking'

"Thinking"

*expression*

Flashback

Techniques

Chapter 7 – Lumber

'So all this time you've been searching for Igneel without any luck?' Asked Yukino, as the group consisting of her, Natsu, Flare, Meredy, Wendy, Happy and Carla, trekked through a forest.

'Yeah, but it doesn't matter. I'm sure that as long as I keep looking, I'll find Igneel eventually. I mean, how many places can a giant dragon hide?' Replied Natsu.

'What if they used some type of magic though? Grandeeney knew a lot of powerful magical spells and not all of them for were fighting or healing.' Piped up Wendy.

'Yeah, I suppose that is something that could have happened too… but, well, I just have this feeling that we should know where to find them but just can't figure it out. I've spent so much time thinking back to all the conversations Igneel had with me, trying to remember if he ever told me about a secret hiding place, but I can't think of anything.' Grumbled Natsu.

'Are you sure it is okay for me to be with you then? If you were having bad luck before, it'll be even worse now with me here.' Said Yukino, looking to the ground.

'Nope. I mean, if I couldn't find Igneel before then it isn't like you are going to make me have more trouble finding him anyway. That's if you were bad luck in the first place. I think it was good luck finding you.' Said Natsu cheerfully, causing Yukino to look up at him shyly.

'Okay, if you're sure.' Mumbled Yukino, a small smile tugging at the corner of her mouth.

'How long were you gone from the castle?' Asked Meredy.

'Hmm, I think it's been a few weeks now… not too long I think. I'll know when I get there I suppose.' Answered Natsu.

'Do you think it will be okay for all of us to come back with you?' Asked Flare, tilting her head to the side in nervousness.

'Of course! You'll see, the people in the palace are really nice. Especially the cook, he always made us extra food.' Said Natsu, before he and Happy started to drool at the memory of all the food they were given.

'Come on Natsu, maybe it is going to be the seafood platter today!' Cheered Happy, hopping off Natsu's head and onto his shoulder, finger outstretched in the direction of Mercurius.

'No manners at all.' Chided Carla.

-line break-
h

Hisui had been bouncing around the palace all morning. Her father had reported that Natsu was coming back soon and for whatever reason, Hisui had equated that with today. Of course, Hisui had no idea if he in fact would come back today, but her optimism could not be dampened by anything.

'Princess, would you come with me for a moment?' Requested Arcadios.

'Of course Arcadios.' Beamed Hisui.

Arcadios led the princess towards the training quarters, before walking upwards towards the observation deck.

'Arcadios, why have you brought me here?' Asked Hisui.

'I would like for you to observe the next few battles that will occur here and provide me with your opinion on the quality of them.' Explained Arcadios, much to Hisui's confusion.

'Why would you request that I give you my opinion on their quality, surely there are others that are more qualified at giving their opinion on combat?' Queried Hisui.

'That may be, however, I would appreciate your opinion, Princess Hisui. Furthermore, while you may not be a combatant yourself, you have seen a few fights in your short life. Did you think it went unnoticed when you would sneak around to watch Natsu without his knowledge?' Retorted Arcadios, causing Hisui to look down bashfully.

'I didn't think anyone noticed.' Mumbled Hisui.

'As your bodyguard, it is my job to notice. That may change soon, but not yet.' Said Arcadios, his final remarking confusing Hisui, before the sound of combat could be heard.

A young knight with a sword was clashing with another man who appeared to be of the same age. What was curious about this other man though, was that he made use of a scythe during his battle. The battle lasted a few minutes, the swordsman continually wearing down the scythe wielder, trying to press his advantage, before overextending himself and finding himself disarmed in one quick maneuverer by the scythe wielder. The battle ended there, with the knight picking up his sword, before another knight stepped up to the plate. The next battle was quite similar to the first, the new knight also tried to wear down the scythe wielder, continually pressing him offensively, only for a single misstep to lead to him being disarmed as well.

'That man is playing with his opponents, isn't he?' Commented Hisui, not taking her eyes of the third battle, as the pattern of the previous two fights repeated itself.

'How astute of you to notice. Yes, that man is one of the top knights among our newest recruits, his skill sticking out just as much as his choice of weapon. I take it you approve of his abilities then.' Commented Arcadios.

'I do, it seems you are doing well training the knights of the future.' Praised Hisui, only for Arcadios to chuckle softly.

'Actually, I have not trained that man at all, no one has. While I say he is one of the top knights amongst our recruits, he was only recruited yesterday.' Revealed Arcadios, shocking Hisui.

'You mean to say he is this skilled without any training from those in the castle?' Queried Hisui.

'Indeed. The King has decided to broaden those who are recruited into the ranks of the knights. It seems that Natsu made quite an impression on him with his unorthodox fighting style and unique abilities.' Explained Arcadios.

'I see… why did you want me to watch this, Arcadios?' Asked Hisui.

'So you realised I was not entirely honest in my motive for bringing you here. Well, if that knight were to fight young Natsu, who do you think would win?' Asked Arcadios.

'Natsu, of course.' Said Hisui, only for the scythe wielding knight to suddenly strike out at his current opponent and forcibly rip his weapon out of his grasp, with the blade of his scythe catching the cross guard of the sword, before thrusting the shaft of his scythe into his opponent's chest, sending him crashing to the floor, coughing in pain.

'What makes you so sure in your assessment?' Asked Arcadios.

'Simple, because Natsu wouldn't give up until he wins.' Replied Hisui.

Arcadios watched as the scythe wielding knight left the area down below, before two new knights stepped up to battle.

'You are free to go now, Princess, I will continue watching though, as it will fall to me to determine the abilities of the knights below. Thank you for gracing me with your time.' Said Arcadios.

'It was no trouble at all Arcadios, good bye.' Said Hisui with a smile and small bow, before leaving.

-line break-

'So that's the palace?' Asked Yukino, looking off into the distance as the castle appeared on the horizon.

'Yep.' Said Natsu simply, before continuing on, as they exited the lush forest onto a more mountainous terrain.

'Surely there was a better way to get down than this.' Complained Carla, as the group climbed downwards along the rocky terrain.

'Well, we could have jumped down, but I think this way was probably safer.' Said Natsu, causing Carla to sigh in defeat.

'Forget I said anything.' Said Carla, as the group made their way down, the sun beginning to dip below the horizon.

Yukino squeaked a little as her footing slipped, before finding herself tied up.

'Thank you.' Said Yukino shyly, as Flare allowed the girl to find stable ground again, before her hair retreated.

'You're welcome.' Said Flare.

As the ground started to level out, becoming somewhat less treacherous, Natsu and Wendy started to pick up on a few voices.

'Why do you keep carrying that thing around?' Asked one of the voices.

'Just because you can't appreciate its beauty doesn't mean I can't either. Besides, that is funny coming from you, your pockets are stuffed with rubbish.' Huffed another voice.

'Really? That's the best you can come up with. I make my things useful, you just stare at that thing all day.' Retorted the first voice.

'And it is truly beautiful when it works. Biding its time all the while until in one moment, everything changes.' Explained the second voice sounding quite enamoured.

'It is eating. What is so great about that?' Snorted the first voice.

'I'm sorry, what is so great about a stack of paper?' Drawled the second voice sounding thoroughly unimpressed.

'That stack of paper can light your little shrub on fire, don't forget that.' Defended the first voice.

'Fire?' Said Natsu curiously, causing the voices to suddenly go quiet.

'And why did you think startling two strangers was a good idea?' Asked Carla.

'What, it isn't like I can't handle a surprise; besides, I don't think those two would be assassins sent after the princess arguing about plants and paper.' Retorted Natsu.

'They don't seem to be dangerous…' Mumbled Meredy drawing attention to herself.

'What makes you say that?' Asked Wendy.

'Just a feeling… I can't really explain it.' Answered Meredy.

'Well, there isn't much point in staying here since they clearly know we are here, so let's go see who they are.' Said Natsu optimistically.

Walking closer along the road, Natsu started to pick up on two distinct scents. It seemed that they had also been coming back along this road but had suddenly hid, no doubt due to being overheard. Natsu turned off the main road and wandered through some tall grassland, before finding two figures huddled behind a stone formation.

'Hi there!' Greeted Natsu, only to be met with a blast of fire to his face.

'Run!' Shouted one of the voices, before they started to escape Natsu.

Natsu ate the flames around his face, before finding the two figures had vanished.

'Natsu, let's go back to the castle, there's fish there.' Said Happy, completely nonplussed that a ball of fire had struck his best friend, barely any space between where he had been standing on his shoulder to where the flames had managed to spread to.

'Geez, I didn't think I was that scary.' Commented Natsu, before walking back to the main road, where the girls were waiting for him.

'What happened?' Asked Flare nervously.

'I don't know, they threw a ball of fire or something at me and ran… weird.' Mumbled Natsu, arms crossed over his chest.

'Maybe they were nervous, it was quite a surprise when all of you came to my home.' Rationalised Yukino.

'Yeah I suppose… oh well, I suppose we should get back to the castle.' Said Natsu, with the group nodding in agreement before heading off, unaware that their group had gained two more.

-line break-

'So why did you think attacking them was the best bet?' Asked one of the voices.

'I don't know Cosmos, maybe because I panicked? What do you think?' Said the voice.

'Do you think he is going to try and be a knight as well? He withstood your magic easily.' Said Cosmos.

'Well, from the sounds of things, he's already been to the castle before… maybe he is a knight and all of those people are his recruits.' Said the first voice.

'I don't know Kamika, they all looked to be pretty young. I don't think they are looking to recruit a bunch of eight-year-old knights. Well, the rumour is there is going to be a new bodyguard for the princess who is apparently around her age.' Said Cosmos.

'So a twelve-year-old knight seems like something reasonable to you?' Asked Kamika.

'That's the thing, he isn't a knight. Besides, there is the rumour about the change to the recruiting at the palace, apparently a fourteen-year-old has joined the ranks and is one of their top fighters already. Remember, that is why we decided to test our luck.' Said Cosmos.

'That sounds pretty hard to believe to me either way, both stories, I just decided it would be worth a shot.' Admitted Kamika.

'Well, if those rumours are true, then don't you think attacking what may have been our best chance of getting in was a bad idea?' Pointed out Cosmos, causing Kamika to blush in embarrassment.

'I said I panicked all right? Let's just go follow them for now… we can figure how to approach them afterwards.' Said a flustered Kamika, before the two stealthily followed after the group.

-line break-

"Knights? What are they talking about, all the knights in the palace are old guys… wonder what I've missed since I've been gone." Thought Natsu, keeping his attention on the road in front of him, while occasionally focusing on their two stalkers to ensure they were still around.

'N-Natsu.' Started Wendy, only for Natsu to silently shush her, placing his right index finger over his lips, causing Wendy to cover her mouth with her hands and give a small giggle.

The two Dragon Slayers were walking in front with their two furry friends, Carla held in Wendy's arms and Happy standing on Natsu's left shoulder, with the other three bringing up the rear.

'Let's see how long it takes everyone else to figure it out.' Winked Natsu conspiratorially, with Wendy nodding in amusement.

'Who do you think they are?' Asked Wendy quietly.

'From the sounds of things and that attack, they might be mages, although I have no idea what they are doing wandering around out here.' Answered Natsu.

-line break-

'Does anyone else feel like we are being watched?' Whispered Flare, twitching her neck slightly, getting a nod from Meredy and a confused glance from Yukino.

'N-no, do you think someone is following us?' Asked Yukino worriedly.

'It feels like we have been followed by those two we overheard… I don't know why they are following us, when they ran away from Natsu…' Commented Meredy.

'Should we tell him?' Asked Yukino.

'I think he knows already, Natsu looks pretty calm, so does Wendy too now that I look at her.' Commented Meredy.

'Aye. That's because Natsu and Wendy are Dragon Slayers, so they have enhanced senses.' Said Happy, flying back to join the group, landing on Meredy's head.

'Hmm, your hair is so fluffy like Natsu's.' Purred Happy contently.

'So you mean we are being followed? Should we be worried? What if they attack us?' Asked Yukino.

'Hmm, well, I think if they were going to do something bad, Natsu would have done something already. I think he is just playing with them now.' Commented Happy, before giving a small yawn.

'Well, I guess if Natsu isn't worried then we probably don't have anything to worry about either, right?' Inquired Yukino.

'I guess. Besides, I'm keeping an eye on them and I bet Flare could stop them if they try anything, her hair has saved both of us now from falls, so I'm sure it could stop them.' Said Meredy.

'Thank you… I haven't tried to use my hair for anything like that before, but I'm sure it could stop another fire attack if I wanted it to. It was a gift from the Eternal Flame after all. Oh, I should probably say Atlas Flame shouldn't I… the Eternal Flame turned out to be a dragon named Atlas Flame.' Explained Flare, much to Yukino's amazement.

'Really? So you've seen a dragon?' Asked Yukino, getting a nod from Meredy and Flare.

'Yes, he was really kind as well. It was surprising to see him talk though.' Added Meredy.

'Do you think Natsu and Wendy will find their dragons?' Asked Yukino.

'I think so. He already found one dragon and a Dragon Salyer in such a short time. I'm think if he keeps searching he will find them.' Said Flare.

'I hope so too. From what I've heard, Igneel was really kind as well, which explains why Natsu is always trying to help people. It would be a shame if they never meet again.' Said Meredy.

-line break-

'It's starting to get dark, do you think we should stop and rest for the night?' Asked Wendy.

'Hmm, I don't know if that'd be a good idea. I know it seems safe now, but the Princess did get attacked around a road like this. I think it'd be best if we can get to the castle, that way I'm sure we'd all be safe.' Reasoned Natsu.

'Hmm, that seems like a wise decision, but how do you suppose everyone will fare with this trip? We are not exactly close yet.' Said Carla.

'I think they will be able to handle it. I'd be most worried about Yukino since she hasn't had as much support as the rest of us and would probably tire first, but if that happens, me or Happy could carry her.' Said Natsu.

'Carry her? She isn't exactly a bag of apples you know?' Said Carla, sounding offended.

'Well, Wendy is carrying you and the size difference between the two of you isn't that different between the size difference between me and Yukino, so I think I'll be fine.' Said Natsu.

'It is Yukino and I not me and Yukino.' Corrected Carla.

'Huh? I wasn't comparing you and Yukino. I was comparing me and Yukino… are you okay?' Asked Natsu in confusion.

'Just… never mind.' Sighed Carla.

'How are the four of you doing back there?' Asked Natsu over his shoulder.

'We're fine, Happy is taking a nap.' Reported Meredy, pointing to her head.

'You all okay to keep going? We should be there in another fifteen minutes.' Said Natsu.

'We'll be fine.' Said Yukino.

'Ok then… oh and if anyone is following us, now would be a good time to join us or you might not be able to get into the castle.' Said Natsu.

-line break-

'He knows?' Hissed Kamika.

'Well, I kind of figured he isn't normal. You did throw fire into his face, remember?' Commented Cosmos.

'So should we go out there?' Asked Kamika.

'Well, that depends, are you going to attack him again?' Teased Cosmos.

'No, but that aside, are we sure we want to do this anyway? What if this is a trap to lure us in? For all we know he could be a slave trader or something.' Said Kamika.

'… I know you have a point, but that is pretty extreme…' Said Cosmos after a moment.

'Like you said, I have a point.' Said Kamika.

'Fine, I suppose we can keep following him to the castle for now. At the very least it will let us know where the castle entrance is, if he is really a part of it and how to get in, one way or another.' Decided Cosmos after some thought.

-line break-

'Hmm, guess they're not going to come out… in that case, let's get going Happy!' Cheered Natsu, before excitedly picking up pacing, catching the others off guard.

'W-wait for us!' Called Wendy, before the group jogged after Natsu and Happy.

It was close to midnight, so the streets were relatively empty, allowing the group of misfits to run through the city unhindered.

'We'll be there soon.' Said Natsu eagerly.

'Aye sir!' Cheered Happy, as the castle quickly came into view.

After a few minutes of jogging, Natsu started to slow down, seeing the front gates of the castle come into view. As Natsu slowed down, giving the others a moment to catch up, he spotted something in the distance. A vibrant head of green was there on the other side of the walkway to the castle entrance. Walking up to the figure, Natsu grinned once it came into view, seeing a smile being sent his way.

'I'm back.' Said Natsu.

'Welcome back.' Said Hisui.

-line break-

'Princess, I know you said he would be back today, but it is close to midnight and you need your rest. How will you manage to get through your day if you are sleep deprived?' Pleaded Arcadios.

'Fine then Arcadios, if he is not here by midnight I will go to bed myself. I am sure I will be correct in my guess.' Said Hisui resolutely, causing Arcadios to sigh.

'Very well then, Princess, I shall stand vigil with you as well, even though I do not share your confidence…' Said Arcadios, before trailing off as a glimmer of pink entered his vision.

Hisui smiled, noticing what Arcadios had as well. A pink haired Dragon Slayer was making his way towards them.

'I'm back.' Said the Dragon Slayer.

'Welcome back.' Said the Princess.

'Well Princess, it seems you were right, but you said you'd go to bed when it was midnight and it is now midnight.' Said Arcadios, ruining their little moment.

'Fine. Natsu, come with me, we have a lot to talk about.' Said Hisui.

'Sure thing, but uh… I kind of brought a few friends with me… would it be okay if they stayed here as well?' Asked Natsu.

'What? You've brought strangers back with you and expect to find them accommodation in the castle of all places.' Exclaimed Arcadios in disbelief.

'Now Arcadios that is rude. I'm sure that anyone Natsu approves of has reasonable merit as well. Natsu is a fine judge of character.' Said Hisui.

'Of that I agree with you Princess. Which is why I will have him attend the knights training tomorrow morning to assess the new recruits.' Said Arcadios.

'But Arcadios.' Protested Hisui.

'Your father agrees that it would be a good idea and the recruits we have assembled for tomorrow's challenge are quite excited for it.' Said Arcadios, causing Hisui to pout.

'Very well then. Now Natsu, where are these friends of yours?' Asked Hisui.

'Come on over all of you.' Said Natsu, waving his hand back in the direction he came from.

Natsu's travelling group walked over to the group, with Yukino and Wendy in particular becoming quite enamoured with Hisui.

'Are you really a Princess?' Asked Yukino, her eyes sparkling.

'I am. A pleasure to meet you, my name is Hisui.' Said Hisui kindly.

'Carla, look, it is a real Princess.' Said Wendy.

'I can see that child.' Said Carla, not appearing too impressed with Hisui, but begrudgingly showing her more respect that Natsu.

Meredy and Flare were somewhat more subdued, being in the presence of two new people who they didn't know, but smiling all the same.

'Arcadios could you see to it that living arrangements are made for Natsu's guests. We will all be heading to my room for the time being.' Said Hisui, causing Arcadios to nod, as they all departed inside the castle.

-line break-

'Well, there goes our chance.' Sighed Kamika.

'On the bright side, at least he isn't some weirdo and actually does know the Princess.' Said Cosmos.

'That's funny coming from you, you look like a flower and that massive hat on your head is too big for you.' Said Kamika.

'I'll grow into it. You on the other seem to be wearing layers and layers of confetti. If you grow anymore you'll become indecent.' Retorted Cosmos.

'Whatever let's just go find somewhere to sleep for now, we can come back tomorrow… also, if those rumours did turn out to be true, maybe we have a chance of getting in after all.' Said Kamika, getting a nod from Cosmos, before the two headed off.

-line break-

'So you actually did manage to find a dragon on your journey after all?' Questioned Hisui, after Natsu had finished his recollection of his journey.

'Yeah, shame it wasn't Igneel, but Atlas Flame was really nice.' Said Natsu with a nod.

'It seems the rest of you have experienced quite the difficult journey up to this point as well. I hope that you can take comfort in knowing you are safe now. The castle would be happy to open its doors to you and I hope that you will find staying here enjoyable.' Said Hisui, addressing the stragglers Natsu had picked up on his journey.

'Yeah, not bad for a few weeks' worth of searching.' Commented Natsu, causing Hisui to look at him oddly.

'A few weeks? You were gone for almost six months Natsu.' Said Hisui, causing Natsu's jaw to drop.

'Seriously! It couldn't have been that long…' Muttered Natsu in disbelief.

'Well, I can't say for sure how long it took you to find me, but we've been searching for about three months since I joined you.' Said Meredy.

'But where did all the time go… I mean I figure it took me at least a few days to get to each place and we spent a few hours to a few days at each place… but six months? That doesn't sound right.' Said Natsu thoughtfully.

'Well, regardless, I believe we should go to sleep now. I'm sure all of you are tired from your journey and Natsu, it seems you have been given a task already, assessing the newest knight recruits we have assembled tomorrow morning.' Said Hisui.

'No fish?' Whimpered Happy, only for Hisui to smile.

'Sorry Happy, not now. I will be sure that you get lots tomorrow though.' Said Hisui, causing Happy to cheer, before dropping asleep instantly in Natsu's lap.

'Wow, was he just trying to stay awake for some fish… that is some serious commitment.' Commented Natsu.

'Well, Natsu, you know where the guest rooms are and yours is still waiting for you. The rest of you will hopefully have been given the rooms nearby for the night.' Said Hisui.

'Thank you for looking after us.' Said Yukino.

'It is no problem at all. We can talk more tomorrow, I'm sure you are all tired and need some rest.' Said Hisui.

'Yeah, *yawn* some sleep does sound like a good idea. I'll show you all the way. See you tomorrow Hisui.' Said Natsu, before the group departed for their beds.

As Hisui had said, each of them were given the guest rooms either side of Natsu's room.

'Well, guess I'll see you all in the morning, good night.' Said Natsu, cradling the snoozing Happy and heading into his room.

-line break-

'Natsu, wakey, wakey, fish time.' Said Happy, patting his father figure on the face.

'I'm up Happy, just a second.' Said Natsu, before trying to move and finding himself stuck.

'What the heck?' Mumbled Natsu, blearily blinking his eyes until he could see his situation with some clarity.

'Um, Meredy, Flare, what are you two doing here?' Asked Natsu, as the two aforementioned girls start to rouse from their slumber.

'I… I felt nervous about being in a new place by myself.' Admitted Flare, fidgeting slightly and looking off to the side.

'I haven't been alone since you saved me.' Said Meredy more bluntly, staring straight at Natsu as she spoke.

'That's ok. I don't mind, after all, Happy still sleeps with me too. Take as long as you want getting comfortable here.' Said Natsu.

'Thank you.' Said Flare, with Meredy giving a small nod of appreciation.

'Well, I better get out there. Apparently, I've got some knights to test out.' Said Natsu, now freed from his constricting predicament, before bouncing off to find his fun for the morning.

-line break-

'Now then, don't consider this a test of your skills, but rather, a simulation of what you may be up against and what you will need to be prepared to combat, understood?' Said Arcadios, getting a round of agreement from the gathered knights.

'Good. Then we will get started once the one who will battle with you all arrives.' Said Arcadios, only for Natsu to bounce into the room.

'You called?' Said Natsu with a grin, causing some of the knights to laugh in amusement, before seeing Arcadios nod.

'Wait, he's our opponent? He's a kid?' Protested one of the knights, only for the other knights in the background to laugh.

'Just a kid, boy is he in for a rude surprise.' Said some of the older knights who had seen Natsu during the first and only time he had sparred with the knights.

'Very well then, for those of you who think Natsu is too much for you, the door is behind you. Arrogance is not something we want among the knights.' Said Arcadios, causing the knights to sober up and take Natsu seriously.

'Okay, so who's first?' Asked Natsu, only for a knight wielding a scythe to step up.

'Oh, cool scythe.' Appraised Natsu.

The knight had purple hair and a sharp look in his eyes which caused Natsu to focus his gaze in turn.

'So you're the strongest here then, aren't you?' Asked Natsu rhetorically, as the other knights backed up, giving the two a wide space to battle in.

'Now then, this fight will continue until one side admits defeat or I step in and end the match. Ready? Begin.' Said Arcadios.

'Fire Dragon's Roar!' Shouted Natsu, blasting a wave of fire at the knight who raised his scythe in front of him and started to spin it, causing the flames to shoot off to the sides when they made contact with it.

'Fire Dragon's Iron Fist.' Said Natsu, charging the scythe wielder.

The knight stood his ground, before striking out with the blunt end of his scythe. The impact of metal clashing with fire sounded strange, almost as though a blacksmith was forging a sword in his forge as the hiss of heat synchronised with the clang of metal being struck. The two combatants both leapt back reorienting themselves, before Natsu gave a wide grin.

'You're pretty good.' Praised Natsu.

'So are you, I'm surprised really. I didn't expect much of you, being so young… seems I may have been too confident in my own abilities.' Said the knight.

'There's nothing wrong with that. If you aren't confident in your own abilities, no one will be confident for you. Just don't think you are unbeatable, that's the real mistake.' Said Natsu.

'Hmm, so you're not unbeatable then?' Asked the knight.

'Of course not. I know I can't beat Igneel yet, but that won't stop me from trying.' Said Natsu.

'Ok, that's enough.' Said Arcadios, causing Natsu to groan in disappointment.

'What? We were just getting started.' Complained Natsu.

'Yes, but you have all these other knights to test and I've seen enough already.' Said Arcadios calmly, unwavering in the face of Natsu's pitiable expression.

'Fine. Who's next?' Grumbled Natsu, causing the knights to waver momentarily, before one of them stepped up.

Natsu took one look at the guy and grinned, causing the knight to pale slightly.

"Well this won't be painful at all." Thought Arcadios.

-line break-

'All done.' Said Natsu, as two dozen knights nursed various bumps and bruises, courtesy of the pink haired boy.

'I can see that, well, in that case I suppose that brings things to an end for today. You can leave now Natsu, thank you for your assistance.' Said Arcadios, as he went about dismissing the knights.

Natsu grinned and walked off, seemingly unaware that two pairs of eyes were watching him, hiding just behind a nearby marble pillar outside the room.

'Ok, I don't think trying out for the knights is a good idea anymore.' Said Kamika, watching as the collection of knights nursed their injuries.

'Yeah you're right, those battles were truly beautiful, we should join him instead.' Said Cosmos, eying the Dragon Slayer as he exited the room and turned down a hall.

'Well, we're going to need some sort of plan for that.' Said Kamika.

'Don't worry, I'm sure something will come up.' Said Cosmos optimistically.

'Yeah, but we better get out of here now, sneaking into the castle isn't exactly a good idea.' Said Kamika.

'Especially when someone knows you're here.' Said Natsu, appearing behind the two.

'Ah!' Exclaimed Kamika, before launching another ball of fire at Natsu.

'Run!' Cried Kamika, as the pair ran off.

'Really? Again?' Muttered Natsu after his recent snack, unaware that Cosmos was mirroring his sentiments at that moment.

'Really Kamika, again?' Panted Cosmos, as the two stopped under a flight of stairs.

'I panicked again, okay… third time's the charm anyway.' Huffed Kamika.

'Whatever you say.' Said Cosmos, before the two wandered off in search of Natsu again.

"Hmm, maybe a separate unit to the knights may not be a bad idea after all." Thought Toma, having observed the interaction between the three children, sparking an idea in his mind.

"If anyone can bring such a unit together, I'm sure Natsu could pull it off. I only hope Hisui doesn't become even more annoyed at the lack of free time he will have because of it." Thought the King, before heading off to set his idea into motion.