Welbor Island, Central District
[That's the gist of it. We're just watching over this guy for now.] Natsu's voice rang across the minds of Ichiya and the rest.
They were currently in a public rest area, occupying a cluster of stone benches with a small tree in the middle of it. When they felt the activation of Warren and Hibiki's Telepathic Link, they paused their part of the investigation for a moment.
Before the groups left for their assigned locations, a form of discreet communication was needed, one that didn't look too obvious so that the operation can run smoothly.
Warren suggested the use of his magic, surprising Hibiki a little since he didn't expect another Telepathic Wizard to be residing within Fairy Tail.
Given that he also has Telepathy, Hibiki cooperated with Warren to establish a impenetrable Telepathic Network that wouldn't be intercepted nor disabled easily. That moment against Zero was hard to forget, and a blunder he wouldn't want to repeat.
[Sounds like a real pain to deal with. He might slip away if you guys aren't paying attention.] Lyon's voice followed.
[I hear ya! We already have a solution for that, since we don't any magic cuffs and all.] Natsu replied with a confident tone.
[Oh? Let's hear it.] Everybody was curious as to what idea the dragon slayer came up with. From how this Rale person was described, his mobility was at the very least, top tier. If it weren't for Natsu's keen senses and Kagura's gravity, then it would have been a different story.
The mist wizard was simply unlucky.
[Every time he wakes up, I'll knock him unconscious! Easy peasy!] The Telepathic Link went silent after hearing that.
All of them were dumbfounded by Natsu's approach since it was somehow a logical one. How would you argue against something that could work out for the most part?
[... There is no other choice if it can delay the risk of being exposed. Natsu-san's idea is the best option for now.] Kagura explained with a hint of softness and exasperation.
[Men~! I have no problems with Natsu-kun's approach! We're also making good progress here, since this island is currently surrounded by endless gossip.] Ichiya shared his group's situation.
Mack Devala was a household name in this place, considering he was the one who kick started the foundation. The tragic incident was still recent, and many were in disbelief after getting news of his sudden passing.
When they probed for information regarding any matter related to him, there were no vague wordings or the likes. It was simple and very direct, making their job smoother to digest and organize on what they learned.
[No surprise there. The council was thorough in regulating what can be shown to the public… Going to such lengths to not garner any suspicion from a speculation can be seen as efficient and stupid.] Lyon scoffed.
[Can you even blame them? Their reputation is already down under thanks to previous baseless decisions. It's like they interchange between competence and incompetence every time, that's a talent in itself.] Ren added.
[Alright, alright, we can poke fun at them later.] Hibiki joined in as he chuckled, focusing on the topic at hand.
[Like Sir Ichiya said, it was no problem for us to understand the dynamic and public opinions of the island's residents.] He paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts to form a summary.
[The current reaction was as we expected. Although most were sad for his family, it didn't go beyond basic respect. On paper, there wasn't anything wrong with it, but their perception of him is another story…] Hibiki sighed.
[Was it that bad? What did you guys hear frequently?] Kagura inquired.
[You can say that, some of them were exaggerated, but it showed their stance.] He responded with a complicated expression. [Embezzlement of funds, blueprints that were plagiarized from rival businesses, empty promises, tense work environments---!]
[Woah! Woah! Woah! Slow down, Hibiki! That's a bit too much to process at once.] Lyon's said with a surprised tone.
[It's a glaring opposite if we try to match it with the person we met. Although we don't personally know him, rumors are the bane of love!] Sherry stated dramatically.
[Hey, Mack ain't half bad. He almost at my level when it comes to stuff like this.] Unfortunately, the dragon slayer understood it in a completely different context.
[I don't think that's something to boast about, Natsu.] Max speechlessly interjected.
[Eh, maybe he's just found a kindred spirit.] Warren laughed
[Natsu-san, take this seriously.] Everybody heard the swordswoman's annoyed voice, making them smile in amusement.
[Er… Sorry about that.] Natsu's voice had a hint of pain in it.
[Anyway, did you guys manage to gain something from these rumors? It's difficult to figure out if it is genuine or slander, especially when it might have been festered for a while.] Kagura asked.
[You're right on the money, Lady Kagura. These are topics that were floating about for at least half a decade. Trying to come clean with such a stain in reputation…] Hibiki couldn't imagine the mental strain that took its toll on Mack, since it was a commerce that he literally founded.
If you added in the fact of his guilt regarding the incident, it was impressive that he stayed optimistic up until now.
[Fortunately, we aren't here to doubt a person's character, but to investigate the potential source of the problem.] Hibki continued. [We're gonna outline what was gathered before going to the craftsman that Mack mentioned, since he described the person as his close friend.]
[Men~! Mr Devala explained and gave a badge to us that will instantly be recognized once we show it. I hope it will work as intended.] Ichiya added.
[It will be our next clue after we're done discussing here.] He finished explaining his group's current status.
[That's already a lot of information to go by. All of you did us a favor, considering we're blindly going into this.] Lyon remarked gratefully.
[Heh! You don't need to be so chummy about it, Lyon.] Hibiki chuckled. [How's everything on your end?]
[We've got only a few, but it's crucial for the operation. It's related to Paramount Tide's current manpower.] Lyon solemnly said. [If you include the guild master, they have four prominently elite wizards, and judging from Natsu and Kagura's description… the one they captured is one of them.]
[This guy is strong? He didn't seem like it.] Natsu stated with surprise.
[He was up against the two of you, so I don't think he'd stand a chance to say the least.] Lyon replied with a wry tone as everybody unanimously agreed with his sentiments.
[Returning to the topic, the locals told us that they were split up to cover both the town and island.] He coughed as he continued.
[That makes sense, considering that they see these areas as their personal territories.] Ichiya nodded. [Lyon-kun, I assume that it's related to the crucial information you wanted to tell us?]
[Yeah. The guild master and his second-in-command are stationed there on your side, while the other portion is here in ours. I just saw them right now, but everything looked normal for the most part.] Lyon warned them.
[Damn, that's actually a problem.] Ren scratched his head as he clicked his tongue. He scanned the place for a moment, spotting heaps of locals who were starstruck while admiring the group.
Normally, it was something they were used to and welcomed such eagerness. But Lyon's statement poured cold water all over it, prompting them to rethink their approach for the investigation
Ever since arriving at Welbor Island, the Trimens garnered attention as they signed autographs from their fans. Those from various factions also took notice of their presence, offering deals that could tempt most people.
This still doesn't mean that their actions will be deemed suspicious under a lot of watchful gazes, but that one fact was enough to raise their guard.
[Kuh! Stop with those complicated expressions, my fellow juniors. I'm still hurt by the clueless reactions that I've received!] Ichiya clutched his heart as he glanced at the three, as if he took mental damage somehow.
Well… Who can he blame if the Ace of Blue Pegasus wasn't acknowledged.
[Cheer up, Ichiya. I'm also on the same boat as you.] Max sighed in defeat as he patted the gloomy orange-haired man's back. He was content to be pushed into obscurity under the glam of flamboyant young men.
[Max-kun… You're so kind.]
[We apologize for our transgressions, Maestro!]
Everyone's worry for this group evaporated in an instant after hearing their usual antics. They were all capable wizards for the most part, so believing in their strength is a form of trust.
[... In any case, we'll wait for updates regarding your situations. Although it leaves to be desired if this captive will have the intention to talk.] Kagura gracefully ignored the grating, theatrical voices as she said that.
[That's fine with us, since having one down for the count is an advantage, if fighting is the remaining option.] Lyon's voice rang with no complaint. [We'll contact you guys again if there's a new discovery.]
[Men~! Same here! At the very least, interrogation will not be needed for now. The locals alone can assist us with our progress.] Ichiya suddenly stood up as he confidently posed on the bench.
The Trimens clapped as they didn't use the Telepathic Link to praise their leader to the high heavens. All those who paid attention to the group watched on with weird expressions, while Max silently moved farther away.
[Our Boss is wise!] The three stooges exclaimed in unison.
[Guess that's the cue for finishing the discussion?] Lyon chuckled in amusement.
[Indeed. I do not want to listen to such torture.] Kagura's voice sighed in annoyance.
[Alright. Oh, and don't give that captive of yours a concussion, Natsu.]
[Nah, it'll be okay! I'm just givin' him light taps and all, he won't be messed up in the head… I think.] The dragon slayer gave his great assurance.
Before he forgot, the Ice Make Wizard also shared their targets' physical descriptions. This can prepare the rest for any unexpected encounter, so that there wouldn't be strong reactions if the situation calls for it.
Once everyone said their farewells, the Telepathic Link ended.
Ichiya and his Trimens have finally calmed down after a while, signaling for Max to go near them again.
They were currently thinking about their next move, while considering the information that Leon shared.
"We need to move forward with going to that craftsman's location. The probability of our movements being watched will come true if we delay any further." Max massaged his forehead anxiously.
"Calm down, Max. I'm pretty sure they wouldn't mind our presences for a while since we're still new arrivals." Eve said.
"You say that now, but we're attracting gazes around us." Ren tapped his foot in a fast pace.
Even with their polite rejections, the persistence of fans was a challenge in itself. The best thing they could do was change spots, hoping that these people would get the memo of wanting to not be disturbed.
Although the most brilliant, handsome, and suave Ace of Blue Pegasus had another way…
"MEN~! Listen to me, my juniors' amazing admirers! As their leader, it is my responsibility to look after their well-being! They are currently resting, which means that it would not be possible for them to sign your autographs in their state!"
Ichiya spun as he elegantly spawned a rose in his mouth. "I can sign them on their behalf!" Sparkles emerged while he confidently winked at the fans who stared at him with mouths agape.
The entire area froze.
Then murmurs of apologies followed as the people hastily went back to their own business. It was a big contrast since the short, orange-haired man maintained his pose.
Max tried to say something while observing the scene that could be etched into someone's mind in terms of pure embarrassment. "I really can't tell if he's self-aware or not…"
"Heh." Hibiki chuckled softly. "That's why he's our Ace, there's no need to ask about such things."
Ren and Eve smiled after hearing that, agreeing with him as they looked at the man with genuine respect in their hearts.
Ichiya glanced back at them, matching their mood as he wasn't fazed by the cold reception.
"Onwards! Our next destination will be at one of the more reputable Craftsman Guilds of Welbor Island: Waynir Forgery!"
"Yes, Master!"
"Seriously, these guys…" Max shook his head and joined alongside their shenanigans.
…
Among the numerous Craftsman Guilds that chose to settle down within the island, there were a few that stood out. Their specialties vary starting from a weapons' intricacies to its traits.
One could call it the extremity of a specific strength, while balancing it with weakness. Fellow peers that were not living here may find the nature of their process crude, reckless even.
Yet these local Craftsman Guilds did not care about such opinions, because there was a reason why they opted for such risky methods.
They were provided with a ridiculous number of resources. Whether it would be money, high-quality ores, dense magical-powered lacrimas and even partnerships… This was a literal haven for those who wanted to hone their techniques to the limit.
As for how the commerce is swamped with wealth? Well, Mack's reputation wasn't just for show, and all of the residents understood his contributions of the success it brought.
For a man to willingly throw away all his hard work down the drain… It's beyond unreasonable for the most part. Mack is an analytical genius that simply wished for the profession of crafting to reach new heights.
Alas, once doubt begins to sprout, it can potentially consume the minds of ones who were brimming with absolute belief and trust. Regaining it is an even harder task when the damage is done.
Only a handful of individuals understood the complexity of Mack's sudden stain in reputation… Which is why the group deemed this close friend of his to be the breakthrough of this investigation.
Ichiya and the rest finally arrived before their destination.
"There's no people going out and about, it's quite peaceful here." Max commented while looking around.
They were currently in a section of the island where the surroundings were just a bit empty. Modest buildings filled the area which were probably stored batches of ongoing products.
"It fits the description of him being a grumpy recluse, so that checks out." Ren said.
During their search for intel, all locals have mentioned this particular craftsman the moment they asked about Mack. He was someone who didn't shy away from speaking his thoughts, even initiating disputes against his own clients.
But nobody denied his skill in creating magical weapons due to one singular fact… This forgery became an official guild through the efforts of just this person alone. An impressive feat that can't just be seen anywhere.
His stories earned him an interesting epithet: The Grumpy Craftsman, Waynir.
"We'll just have to see for ourselves." Ichiya strutted forward as he politely knocked on the door.
They heard a grunt of annoyance afterwards, along with the sounds of metallic cluttering that showcased the man's current mood.
"Who is it!? I've already told you lot that creation couldn't be rushed! If your pampered asses fail to understand such a simple thing, then cancel---!" The door swung open with force as a man wearing a blacksmith's apron froze in surprise.
Everybody sweat dropped at the intensity he's emitting, although they were more worried about the poor individual being squished behind the door.
"Sorry about the shouting, thought it was one of my noble clients." Waynir apologetically scratched his head. "You guys don't look like 'em… Are you here for my services?"
They were a bit surprised at his chill demeanor, making those gossips about him seem exaggerated.
"Something like that." Hibiki spoke up. "Only you can complete it."
Waynir raised an eyebrow as he chuckled. "Oh? Giving me a challenge, eh?" He crossed his arms in interest.
"You can see it that way." Hibiki nodded. "Um, can you release our leader from his predicament first?" Pointing towards the door.
The blacksmith was confused, but still complied nonetheless. He widened his eyes as he discovered a short orange-haired man being etched into the wall of his forgery, twitching in pain.
"Whoops!" Waynir helped him up quickly, making sure there were no injuries. "You alright?"
"M-Men… Accidents happen from time to time." Ichiya said in a strained tone while managing to pose even when he's in pain.
Looks like he was a bit embarrassed for showing unsightly impression. The rest just stood in silence to save his dignity.
After the slight delay, Waynir guided the group into the forge. Ichiya instantly recovered and returned to the forefront like usual.
Once they entered, a wave of heat greeted them, which was quite the contrast compared to the afternoon breeze outside. They also saw numerous displays of all kinds of weapons of decent quality, ranging from common swords to unique designs that had lingering Ethernano.
"Sir Waynir, is it safe for you to be in an environment like this? Although the level of concentration is low, it could be fatal for normal people without magic." Hibiki frowned as he asked.
"Ah, you don't need to worry about me!" Waynir patted the apron he was wearing. "This enhanced apron can act as a barrier against the radiation that's piling up within my forge. I've already consulted others if it would still rise, but I was told that this would be the standard concentration for a long while."
Earthland was filled with Ethernano, and its concentration and density vary from place to place. It was no surprise that there were precautions for those who aren't wizards.
When it came to crafting, you can't really avoid tinkering with Larcimas, so regulating their outputs to prevent oneself from harm is a mandatory skill that comes with the profession.
"That's really convenient. Welbor Island lives up to its reputation as a Craftsman's paradise." Max remarked in awe.
"Haha! Then you don't know that much about our world then! This type of clothing is common among my peers, unless you have a death wish for recklessly modifying your environment beyond the human limit." Waynir shook his head while recalling some incidents that could have been circumvented if they were careful.
He guided the group to their customer accommodations, offering them to be seated as he did the same.
Waynir wasn't someone who liked beating around the bush. "So? What's your commission for me, wizards?"
Ichiya and the others look at each other solemnly, as if they mentally synced in agreement. The Ace of Blue Pegasus brought out a particular item that looked like a keepsake.
BAM!
Waynir instantly stood up as he smashed the table with force, his expression was of disbelief while staring sharply at the item. He clenched his fists as he glared at Ichiya who didn't flinch under his wrath.
"Where did you get this!? This badge is something I gave to Mack as a token of our friendship!" The blacksmith became extremely cautious towards these people who somehow retrieved this memento from his deceased friend.
"So it's true… You two really are close." Ichiya muttered in thought.
"Speak! I don't like to repeat myself!" Waynir's shout echoed through the forge.
Ren sighed as he swiftly arrived beside him using his Air Magic, gently tapping the furious man on his right shoulder. "Calm down, the boss will get to it in a second."
Waynir gritted his teeth as he had no choice, because he was not a wizard. Even if he was one, being outnumbered was another thing altogether.
"Mr. Devala… survived." Ichiya said.
"What?"
Ichiya shared what the search party experienced, along with the current status of Mack who was accompanied by Natsu's group.
If they wanted to make a breakthrough regarding the investigation, they should trust Mack's words at face value. Concealing any information right now would push back their progress to zero.
Since his statements of his close relationship with Waynir was proven to be not false, they might as well go for the risk of being exposed, or gain a potential key to this entire situation.
Waynir slumped on his seat as he absorbed what he was told. He went through a myriad of emotions before trying to regain his composure. It wasn't common for someone of his stature to expose his feelings this much, yet anything related to his friend was enough to shake him.
The blacksmith exhaled as those five years of flash by through his mind, witnessing Mack's struggle with his own eyes. The confusion, despair, and helplessness at the sudden hostility of the locals was something they didn't expect.
He was stated to have a neutral stance and didn't want to involve himself with the constant clashes of the island's factions. Not once did he show an ounce of ambition nor desire, only wanting to craft his weapons in peace.
Which is why Mack emphasized very clearly to him to not interfere in his affairs. No matter how much he wanted to help, Mack simply left one sentence: Do not trust anyone, especially Vandis.
Waynir simply followed his friend's advice at that time, feeling absolutely useless in not being able to support him openly. The guilt gnawed at him for staying in the sidelines, but he knew that this friend would want it to be this way.
Patience.
Patience was all that they needed to solve this unseen enemy that's been targeting Mack vehemently.
Then, the incident happened, putting Waynir through a state of emptiness and sadness. It was too obvious that this was orchestrated and could only hold onto this grievance for his entire life.
Until now… It looks like there is a chance to strike back after all.
"I'm glad that he's doing well." Waynir finally calmed down as he nodded. "But the deaths that were in vain need to be accounted for. Those bastards will definitely pay immensely." His anger was directed towards the culprits.
"Judging by how you arrived here with Mack's suggestion… You're betting on me having in-depth knowledge about the issue, right?" He inquired with realization.
"Correct! Because of your neutrality, a lot of prominent figures must have let their guard down around you, so gathering information would have been a lot easier." Ichiya went back to his usual posing, while his fellow Trimens did the same.
Waynir looked at their antics with amusement, but nodded in confirmation. "I ain't sure about the letting guard down part, even in formal gatherings, I'm still seen as Mack's friend." He shook his head.
"Let me tell you about what I currently know, I didn't get to inform Mack because the situation reached a boiling point as he decided to move into that cruise hotel…" He sighed before going straight into the matter.
"Mack was right about Paramount Tide being the main culprits. I've heard whispers from other acquaintances that their ambitions that lay elsewhere… It basically meant that the commerce was used as a stepping stone." Waynir tightened his fist in anger.
The blacksmith paused for a moment, reigning in his strong emotions. "It is not easy to fabricate rumors tailored to sabotage an individual completely, since there could be counter arguments to snuff them out. Even a guild couldn't compete against the collective opinion of the public, unless they have specific experts that are proficient with it."
"You mean…?" Hibiki understood at what he's getting at.
"Yes." Waynir nodded. "I've managed to get this tidbit secretly without them being aware. Paramount Tide is cooperating with another guild in stabilizing their control over the business."
Everybody froze after hearing that, not expecting an additional obstacle to their investigation.
"Things just got even more complicated now!" Max groaned in acceptance.
"Don't worry about it, Max. Our guilds defeated Oracion Seis! There's no use in getting cold feet." Eve puffed his chest proudly.
"Tch! We can overcome this without a sweat!" Ren huffed.
"Well… I can't really refute that, since it's true." Max chuckled.
Ichiya smiled at their confidence, then glanced at Waynir again to ask. "Do you know the name of this guild, Mr Waynir?"
Waynir gave himself a few seconds to recall as he grunted in response. "Hm… Ah! Good thing I've gotten the name clearly."
"They're called Raven Tail."
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AN: I have descended with an update! Believe me guys, I really want to update frequently, I'm still trying to find a way to retain the quality while making it shorter. I actually planned for at least 2000 words each chapter, but yeah, I can't do it for now lol. You guys will have to endure these snail paced updates until I find my rhythm.