Hello guys, Insane Dominator is here, and proud to finally announce this is the sequel to The Fairy Contender. Hope you all enjoy the successor, A Contender's Bonds!

Disclaimer: I do not own Pokémon or Fairy Tail, they belong to Satoshi Tajiri, Nintendo, and Hiro Mashima.

The Fiore capital that was known as Crocus; the location was brimming with life. The calm seashores glistened with the morning sun on the rise. The early morning folks were already up and out doing their regular activities. A handful were still recovering from the events that transpired a few days back with the traumatizing near-death experience the universe almost had. But many others were able to sleep soundly knowing and seeing the stars were glistening from last night on.

In an old inn, labeled the Honey Bone Inn, everyone was starting to pack up their things. The beds were made and the girls' suitcases were closing with all of their proper luggage.

Natsu stretched his arms overhead. "Oh man, last night rocked!"

"Aye! I wanna go to another royal party!" Happy cheered.

Gray turned towards them after putting on an open orange shirt. "Yeah, well, I'm ready to head home." He snickered at the thought of going back to Magnolia. It felt like forever since they've left and got accustomed to Crocus. "It's gonna feel weird when we get back."

"I know what you mean. I wish we could've stayed a little longer." Lucy wished as she applied nail polish to her toenails. They were a sparkling pink. "Of course, I think someone's a little reluctant to even think of moving…"

Erza finished closing her suitcase and looked back around with a smile. Her eyes cascaded down towards the man that was her love. Her smile softened when she saw Nic sleeping peacefully like a baby.

The events of last night's scene made by Nic on the beach had left him with no more burdens to bare. He and his Pokémon lost crucial sleep hours constructing that raft and perfecting those drawing in honor of the future fallen. Anyone could've labeled him lazy for not being at the party last night, or maybe selfish, but the only one there was Erza. She fully understood and thought the most important thing Nic needed right now was nourishment, water, and especially sleep.

"What's the deal with him missin' out on his own party like that?" Natsu questioned.

Gray crossed his arms. "After what's happened, who knows."

Lucy sweat dropped. "Yeah, although I think he looks content not being there." She looked at how completely knocked out Nic was and never saw him so knocked out before. Of course he couldn't hold a candle to Natsu, but that's because unlike Natsu, Nic doesn't snore.

Erza knelt down and nudged Nic. "Nic, wake up." She cooed into his ear softly. Nic moaned and turned over, the front of his face towards the wall. She tried again. "Nic, please, just for a few minutes?" She wanted to chastise herself for knowing better than to disturb Nic's well-earned rest, but it was time to head home. She was aware Nic's Charizard could use Fly, but he was in the same boat as Nic.

Nic moaned irritably and his eyes rolled open. His head throbbed from exhaustion and he could barely sit up. "Mmmm…Erza?" He groaned softly.

"It's time to head back to Magnolia. Come on, I'll help you." She helped supported Nic as he managed to stand. He was able-bodied, but just barely due to all of the stress finally relieved. He lethargically made way down the steps with Erza supporting him; the others being in tow.

Once they made it outside, there was a carriage pulled by horses. At the entrance to the stylish carriage was Wendy, Carla, and Vanessa. All three females smiled and presented the mode of transportation.

"Hey guys, how's this for a ride back to Magnolia?" Wendy said.

"It's cheap, and it can fit all of us." Carla pointed out.

"You have to admit, it is classy." Vanessa grinned.

Everyone had their own way of reacting. Gray seemed amused, as was Lucy as the blonde petted the horses. Natsu was most certainly quivering at the thought of having to ride another deathtrap, and he was immune to Wendy's Troia spell, which was salt to the wound. Erza just made way towards the doorway with Nic, and Vanessa took notice with curiosity.

"Oh, Erza. Where did you go last night? You missed out on the party."

Erza recalled the events of last night on the beach with Nic with a warm and inviting smile towards the mentioned who was supported by her. He too shared the same smile and stare towards Erza, albeit with exhaustion involved. The redhead turned her attention towards Vanessa and spoke. "No party is worth ignoring Nic."

Everyone smiled at her commitment.

"The Master's probably ahead of us by now. We should get going." Gray noted.

Everyone stepped inside the carriage and closed the door, the last one entering being Natsu as his fear would become reality. Lucy, Wendy, Carla, Happy, and Natsu all had one side, while Gray, Vanessa, Nic, and Erza all had the other. Nic laid his head down on Erza's lap and she lovingly ran her warm hands through his very short, spiky black hair. It was soft to the touch, a good indication to health.

As the carriage moved on out, Nic was fast asleep once more with Erza's lap being his bed. The knight watched over him as they began their few-hour-long voyage back home.

As bustling as Crocus usually was, it was fairly vacant today. Within the open, abandoned streets of an avenue, three cloaked figures walked on through, inspecting the revived city. Crime Sorciere had hung around even after the fall of Lysandre, and continued to remain discrete as they ran an overview on what transpired.

"The Eclipse was destroyed, but was far from the impending doom we've speculated. We were played for fools from the start." Ultear said.

"As shocking as it sounds, you're right." Jellal said.

"Even after all of the carnage, Nic managed to restore the entire universe. There's not a trace of darkness or of Lysandre; it's all been erased from existence forever."

"At least that's one threat disposed of. That we can be grateful of." There was a small silence that proceeded after Jellal, and then Meredy took the ropes.

"Time and space have been put out of control. I thought the dragons of the past would've been revived."

"Atlas Flame was the only dragon who has returned to the past. As for the remaining six, they've been expunged from ever making it back." Jellal said as he looked up to the sky. "The future has been corrected, and the fabric of the disoriented space-time compounds has been adjusted. As for the Rogue of the future, his fate was forever expunged as well…and as for the Nic and Lucy of the future, I'm afraid as we all learned, their fates have been sealed."

Ultear's gaze turned towards a standard building, her gaze not entirely focused. "To think Nic became a god just that once. This brings up the question of what limitations do Pokémon hold."

Crime Sorciere stopped in their tracks when they made it to Mercurius Palace, the center of Crocus. They were standing in the precise spot that was the Eclipse Gate was there a few nights back. Now empty vacancy.

"This concept of Pokémon is what also troubles me." Meredy said.

Jellal nodded. "I can understand, considering they are what was almost our end, and at the same time, our salvation. However, the problem is now with the Magic Council."

"Huh?"

"Because they must certainly be aware of these instances. Acnologia himself was defeated brutally by Pokémon. This crisis for power and domination, these are what wars are established on." He explained.

An unknown pair of footsteps made their mark. Crime Sorciere turned back to confront the unknown person who was walking towards him. It was a shock to say the least, because it was a member of the Magic Council: Doranbolt. He looked serious.

"What does he want?" Jellal wondered.

Gran Doma was sitting on his chair, his index finger tapping the table that grouped the Magic Council members together. "Hmmmmm!" His huff was followed by a frog racing over and holding a stack of papers.

"Sir, still, we are unable to analyze that dark data." The frog reluctantly informed. "All of our readings showed that with the defeat of that man, the dark energy in whole just…left."

Gran Doma slammed his staff to the ground, startling the frog. "Preposterous!" He retorted. "Matter can't be destroyed, only changed. That defies the laws of physics."

Org gazed at Gran Doma with uncertainty. "Well to be fair, you were aware that Nic Pularis had gone and defied all matter of physics. With these so-called Pokémon creatures, anything is possible."

Gran Doma's hat shadowed his frustration. "As I am aware, Org, but what you fail to understand is that this unknown force was almost our end. They destroyed the Etherion satellite with space – permanently. And they trapped every single living creature on Erath Land in a space shield so strong that no Spatial Magic could penetrate. We were fools that had no knowledge."

Org chuckled.

"Is there something funny you would like to share with us, Org?" Gran Doma challenged.

"Nothing, it's just that it's baffling to find you so hung up over this obsession over Nic Pularis defeating and defying someone of greater power than you, Master Gran Doma." He then looked at the remaining Council members. All of them had the same facial expression. "However…I do agree that the levels of infinite darkness has caught my attention. How it has scarred us for life and can never leave is something I can't understand. I still shiver from the mere thought of that catastrophic battle."

"As we all." Gran Doma huffed. "Alright, dismissed."

The Council got up and departed from the large table, leaving another meeting with no luck on handling the situation that happened with the battle and worldwide epidemic.

Jellal's eyes widened. "What?"

"You tried erasing everyone's memories, but you couldn't?" Meredy interpreted.

"I recalled you infiltrating Fairy Tail before, but I never had knowledge of you possessing such a power." Ultear speculated.

"Yeah, so much for top-secret." Doranbolt huffed. "I'm still in shock that the battle and Lysandre's infinite evil left people scarred for life. Perhaps that's why my memory manipulation didn't work."

"Because the memory is what scar people for life." Jellal said.

"Yeah, that's it. I don't understand myself. That memory can't leave my own head. The Magic Council certainly is in a frenzy because of that infinite level of evil power." His eyes turned away from the group. They had moved the conversation from the city to the mountains for secrecy and to not give public the wrong impression. "The royal family got off very easy. They were lucky the Eclipse was not even remotely the worries that the world faced. Everyone thought little, and instead got therapy sessions over the events after that."

"I can understand." Jellal said. "We all feel the same."

Meredy looked down at her hand as it shook a little. "It's taking some time…but the bitter thought of that monster and those four ruining our existence made me nauseous sometimes."

"Trust me, you're not alone there sister." Doranbolt said. "Lahar took it much worse than what I did, but he's pulling through." He frowned. "Of course I can't say the same for the worldwide population. This makes Nic Pularis and Pokémon public knowledge. There's no telling how that'll influence others and their lives now."

"This makes the concept of Zeref look like a birthday cake." Ultear said. "But since this dark energy and Lysandre have both been erased permanently, that shouldn't be a problem."

Doranbolt turned away. "Yeah, I'm positive people would rather deal with Zeref and Acnologia than those enemies Nic had to fight. So, business as usual…only with some therapy sessions involved."

Jellal snickered at the small joke. He then remembered another important piece of information. All he needed to say was one name.

"…Cobra."

Doranbolt stopped in his tracks. He frowned and looked dead ahead.

"What became of him?"

"…he walked back to prison and gave himself up."

Ultear's eyes widened. "What?"

"Right after the Pokémon left back for their home world…"

Cobra was confined to Magic Cuffs. The item glowed and activated, restraining his usage of Sound or Dragon Slayer Magic. He was surrounded by guards who were aware of being upmost cautious given his status, but all Cobra did was smirk.

"These cuffs aren't too bad for looks you know, but it's not like I'm here to pick a fuss." He sneered.

"We appreciate the sentiment, but we must follow our protocols." Lahar noted in a relaxed tone.

"Right, right. First you let out a Dragon Slayer who can't live up to his name, then these legendry behemoths from another world easily do the job for you, and then you watch in agony as you almost waste away, only to be spared by a single human and his pet. That's a real pat on the shoulder for ya."

Doranbolt crossed his arms. "I get it. Your pride's been hit bad, so you decided to crawl back into your hiding hole."

Cobra lowered his cuffs and kept a sullied grin. "Fresh air was nice while it lasted, and I heard Cubellios out there, watching from the same sky I was. I went deaf from all the despair and evil in the silence that Lysandre brought onto us, I swear." He chuckled then frowned. "Then there's Nic Pularis and his little snake pet who outclassed me. I got no qualms for those seven."

Lahar looked towards Doranbolt and then back to Cobra. "Almost went deaf you say?"

"Yeah. Space, hearing, sight; whatever you use, it sure ain't pretty in the end. Although I did get to hear some voices or a few after I got my hearing back before I got here." He then shrugged. "But I think I'll lay low and head back into peace and quiet." He turned away from Lahar and Doranbolt and smirked. 'So I can bust out the Oracion Seis.'

"Hold it!" Doranbolt insisted. Cobra complied and turned towards him. "What else did you hear?"

"You wanna hear me?" He asked. "Lysandre made the underworld look like a daycare. And the demons dwelling were petrified with fear as well, and they won't lay down much longer." He turned towards the carriage and stepped inside. "Still trying to understand myself, so stay out of my head, would ya?"

"…those were the last words he spoke of." Doranbolt finished. "While I do agree with Cobra, I question what this so-called 'underworld' will do in retaliation. We can only hope to keep a high guard until we pilfer some more info." He began walking away. "You three be safe now. While I'm in your debt, don't you dare test me."

With those words, Doranbolt teleported away, leaving Crime Sorciere be.

"I get it." Meredy grimaced.

"The underworld, or to be more precise…" Ultear trailed off, only for Jellal to finish.

"Tartaros."

"So the vilest demons were scared of Lysandre. It looks like they might want revenge and prove Zeref is a bigger threat than Lysandre was."

Jellal looked up at the sky, pondering. "I bet even they know that cannot be achieved…"

"So what now?" Meredy asked.

Jellal turned towards the two girls, having a serious look. "Let's head out. We'll need to lay low until we get more data on Tartaros, and what else we can find of Zeref."

Resuming their directives, Crime Sorciere departed from the mountains, heading off towards unknown warrants.

Hours rolled by, and it was past noon. The trains and modes of transportation carrying Fairy Tail home all arrived at the same time. All of the Fairy Tail members gathered up an walked down Magnolia's main avenue.

What surprised them most of all was the thousands of people on the sides cheering as they paraded down the avenue. Confetti and balloons were flying like crazy. Deafening cheers filled the airs as banners and happy smiles aroused all of Fairy Tail.

"They're here!"

"Welcome back!"

"We've been waiting! And we're so proud!"

Banaboster, the guild master of Twilight Ogre, had on a jolly expression. "Everyone, please welcome back the winners, Fairy Tail!" He announced. "Congratulations! We welcome your return!"

Clapping roared as the entire guild walked down the avenue with overwhelming joy. Nic himself was just as shocked. He managed to shake off his drowsiness just this once using his own willpower; sure he could've gone into Meadow Plate Form and used Worry Seed on himself, but he'd rather save himself the trouble and powered through. It was only for the people that he gave a smile, giving his façade out to them.

"We're back everybody!" Natsu yelled.

"Aye!" Happy announced.

Lucy looked as shocked. "Look at all of these people…"

Vanessa smiled at the audience. "I'm not even sure a lot are even from around here."

"Woooo! We did it!" Makarov cheered as he walked with Asuka on his shoulders.

Lily looked around with wide eyes. "This is too big of a shock for words!"

Gajeel put a fist to his chest and gave a cocky smirk. "Because we became the top dogs now! Fairy Tail's lookin' down on you all!"

Wendy gave a sheepish smile and bowed to the audience on the sidelines. "Thank you all for your support and for cheering us on."

"Speak up, child." Carla chided.

Cana held up her booze bottle she had on hand and looked like she was having a fun time. "Alright, let's drink while we're young!"

Sophie sweat dropped as she despondently looked at Cana. "Cana…you know, I actually expected this from you."

Erza walked side by side with Nic as the two marched on, and of course people were going nuts. They were talking all about Erza and her achievements in Pandemonium, Kagura, and helping Minerva rid of Bellona. Of course the knight had a blush and couldn't take it in stride. Nic saw her blush and chuckled at how cute it really was. It wasn't too often she blushed out of embarrassment, and he could relate. It was reassuring.

Of course his status was a completely different story.

People were practically on their knees begging for him to look at them. When he passed the local available women, they nearly fell over. The people in the back went as far as hitching rides on shoulders and wailing like monkeys. It was no surprise that Nic was this popular. The entire world knew of him and how he saved them all. They were going nuts over their salvation, and Nic took it in stride better than Erza, as he just looked and grinned at the ongoing population, but not wave.

Natsu sat his stuff down and popped open his green backpack. "Check out what I have! You guys are gonna want to feats your eyes on this!" He reached inside and pulled out a jewel-coated crown. "Ta-da!"

Unlike the wowed audience, Fairy Tail was not amused.

"The king's royal crown?!" Macao and Wakaba exclaimed.

"You…stole it?!" Wendy panicked.

Natsu shoved the crown back into his backpack. "No, that ain't it…"

Vanessa sweat dropped. "Ah, so he did steal…"

Natsu instead reached and plucked out a super shiny golden cup, engraved with intricate marks and having their guild's name written on it. "The proof of our victory! A trophy!" He held the trophy high with beaming pride as Fairy Tail members cheered on in praise. The members that were left behind for seven long years were either crying out of joy or were tearing up with great satisfaction. They've been rolling around in mud for seven years, and thanks to the Grand Magic Games, they've finally pulled themselves out of their rut and now stood tall and proud once more. Their grief was no more, and they could look people in the eyes once more. This was their moment.

Banaboster spoke up again. "Attention everyone, the mayor would like to present Fairy Tail with a special prize for this special occasion!" He referred his arms towards the small, stout mayor with a small moustache and a black suit.

Makarov blushed as he sheepishly rubbed the back of his head. "A special prize? R-really, there's no need."

The mayor cleared his throat and smiled as he moved his arm in a direction. "Members of Fairy Tail, allow yourselves to marvel at this…"

All eyes went to what he was referring to, and that's when every eyes popped open. Makarov, Natsu, Lucy, and all eyes widened and huge smiles went around.

Before them was a tremendous guild hall. The intricate guild hall belonged solemnly to Fairy Tail, and it outclassed the one they were forced to abandon so long ago.

"Fairy Tail is but our pride, and to that we have reconstructed your guild hall!" The mayor announced.

Levy, Vanessa, Gajeel, and all of Fairy Tail had enormous smiles cascaded onto their grand guild hall. It was a site worth commemorating. They were overwhelmed to say the least. Makarov's face was frozen with absolute disbelief that the city had given their time and money and volunteering to reconstruct what they had taken away from them. Natsu was looking mighty proud alongside Happy as they were without words themselves.

As Makarov teared up with a sobbing wail, the folk chuckled at how he loves their hard work."

"I love Magnolia!" He yelled.

Erza had a warm smile full of pride at the new guild hall…although Nic only half grinned. He could only stare at the guild hall towering above them. While he chose to say nothing and just smiled away, there was something about it that he's not accustomed to.

As they all celebrated with their own guild hall, they did not notice a small creature overlooking from the rooftops. The creature was the same one that escaped from 'Obra' and his body during the Grand Magic Games. Obra sneered down at the touching scene and turned away. The small creature jumped off the roofing and pounced onto some crates down below. He ran along through the alleyway out of Magnolia and off into the woods.

Fairy Tail members, new and old, had already navigated the reestablished guild hall and had transferred the materials they salvaged from the old tavern guild hall to their new placement. The place was much like their old one, save the less amusing features like no stage. The job board was off to the side across from the bar. But still, many were content with what they had. It wasn't long until they all got accustomed to the new location after inspection. Gajeel certainly made it home by napping on a table, much to Levy's chagrin and Lily's snickering.

With their status, a flood of people filled the guild hall, becoming mages of Fairy Tail and increasing the members. It was a hysterical day since that was all Makarov and Mira's department to assess the new members. There was more than enough room for them anyways.

Natsu stretched overhead and sat back in his chair. "Yeah~! Now it feels right."

"I forgot how cramped our old guild hall was compared to this one." Gray said.

"Aye!" Happy agreed.

Lucy sat next to Natsu, smiling. "So, anyone up for a job? It's been ages since we've had one, right?"

Natsu's eyes popped open. "Say, yeah! Haven't been on a job since the games! This should be fun!" He got up from his seat and beamed. "I'm achin' to get some work in! You all with me?"

Wendy smiled as Carla sat in her lap. "Hey yeah, a job sounds like fun."

"Well of course. We have to earn our keep somehow. It's time we stop dilly-dallying and get back into routine people!" Carla announced.

As the small group was readying for their mission, Erza came in. She carried a wooden crate and carried it over towards the bar. It held some booze and other material needed for Mirajane's case. A few wine glasses in a small pocket in the crate. She sat the crate on the bar. "Here you are, Mira. The last bit of supplies."

Mirajane looked over and peeked inside. She looked back up at Erza and smiled. "Thanks, Erza. I must say, it's quite the hassle hauling all of the necessities from our previous location. Fortunately, this is much more convenient for us now that it's back in the city."

"You can say that again." Erza agreed. She looked around the guild hall with a small grin. Looking at the individual faces of everyone, she saw how lively the place was. "This is most certainly a welcoming change in dynamics…" As she scoped the place, she did notice her team plucking a job, then there was Nab looking at the board, Asuka parented by Bisca and Alzack, and Juvia admiring Gray from behind a pillar. However, something seemed off, and that's what made her frown.

She turned back towards Mirajane. "Mira, have you seen Nic?"

"Nic?" Mirajane's head tilted as she put an index finger to the side of her chin. "Now that I think about it, I haven't seen him since we've been presented our guild hall."

Chugging was heard from the side. On a stool was Cana, and she slammed her mug down and gave a sigh. Her breath had a heavy dose of booze in it. "Bah, I wouldn't worry about him. He's a big boy. He can handle himself."

"While there's a kernel of wisdom, Cana, it's not that I don't disagree." Erza said otherwise. "Perhaps Vanessa knows."

Mira went through the work records and looked on a fresh page. "Sorry, but she and Sophie went on a job earlier and won't be back until the evening." She apologized. "They say they gotta pay Sophie's rent since she's overdue. She's over her grace period and needs money." She put a hand to her cheek. "But it's adorable seeing you worry over Nic when it's only been an hour."

"It's not like that." Erza looked away, huffing. "It's just…"

"Hey, Erza!" Natsu called out to Erza, getting her attention. She turned to see her team holding out a job request to her. "We're going out on a job, ya ready?"

Erza was a little shocked at the sudden request. It's true that she's been aching to go on a job, but her concern for Nic was what's been tearing her apart. It was gonna be a painful answer, but she had to say it.

"I apologize…but I'm gonna sit this one out."

"Eeeh?!" The remnants of Team Natsu exclaimed.

Erza powered through, despite their shock. "I have matters that are still needed to be appointed too. Do hope you accept my apology."

At this point, Cana could've corrected and said that she really wanted to find and look after Nic, but she chose to not say anything and shrugged it off. Either way, they could see as clear as day that Erza was stern and focused on Nic. If that wasn't commitment, then who knows what's what anymore?

Lucy grinned. "It's okay. I'm sure there's more than enough of us for the job anyway."

Gray shrugged. "It's cool. You got priorities."

Natsu raised a brow. "What's the matter, Erza? Getting' worried about Nic? He's fine."

"Exactly what I said." Cana slurred. She hiccupped and sighed. "Geez, you need hearing aids?"

"Shut up! My hearing's fine!" Natsu protested.

Wendy walked up to Erza with Carla in her arms. "Well we understand. After what Nic's been through, some rest is all he needs."

"Agreed." Carla nodded.

Lucy waved to Erza as she and the remaining members decided it was best to leave her be. "Well, be seeing you!" The blonde cheerfully said before the team embarked out of the guild hall and off towards their mission decided without Erza.

After the group embarked, Erza got up and decided the best course of action was to go search for Nic. Naturally he wasn't in the guild hall so he had to be close by elsewhere, but the question was where. So as she stepped out of the guild, she scoped around the city. The redhead looked around as people were taking notice of the infamous Titania of Fairy Tail, but she paid no heed to them. Her priority was set, and after a while of failures after searching through the main avenues of Magnolia, she had to stop in place and think. "Okay, where could he possibly be? I'll have to look in his perspective." She began to slowly trace her steps off towards the ends of an avenue, slowly making way through the market department. "Let's see, if I were Nic…I would most likely be lying down somewhere. Somewhere quiet, somewhere where my Pokémon and I can relax after our tales, a place where…" Her eyes widened and she gasped in the realization dawning upon herself. "Somewhere that is suited to my training life. Close to rickety tables and places that I've slept in all of my life…" Her head turned towards where their former guild hall was before they won. "The second base!" Without a slip in her step, she made way through the heavy market location and crossed through the floral department. She ran through the remainder of Magnolia until she found herself running atop of a small hill up a trail leading to the abandoned second building.

Upon arrival, she went inside. She was as quiet as a Rattata. She turned her head around and looked, but he wasn't there. She went up the staircase towards the attic, which acted as a small room with a nursery bed in it in the cases like what happened to Kinana during the Key to the Starry Heavens incident. Again, she had no luck.

She made way outside and turned the corner. "Then there was only one place left…Nic?" She ran behind the building in search of her final guess. Sure enough she got it right at long last.

As a calm wind blew, lying underneath the shade of trees – more like sprawled – was Nic and all of his Pokémon. The wear on them was evident, as they looked like they've been put through hell. To be fair, they actually were. And yet here they were, all sleeping at peace like little babies. The seven were all sound asleep in the shade of the trees behind the building. Nic was lying on his side while others were on their fronts, back, sides, or awkward positions like Kecleon with her mouth open and sticky tongue hanging out from the side.

Seeing them all present made relief lift from Erza as her smile returned. She made way over towards Nic, careful to maneuver around Arbok and Garchomp as they stirred. She stopped when she towered above the defenseless Nic and knelt down towards him. 'So you've been here all this time. I got so worked up, I guess that's what happens after the experience shared, huh?' She chuckled and her soft brown eyes watched over Nic as his chest rose and fell. He was probably gonna be out for quite some time. Still, she smiled and gently reached out towards him. She slid her right hand on his cheek and leaned into him. Her nose was so close to touching his own.

"You've been through a lot, haven't you?" She quietly muttered. "You've finally been lifted of your burden, you fought and won against the greatest threat to ever been created…" She looked up and out to see Greninja lying on his side, sound asleep. Her gaze was then towards Charizard nearby, and then towards Staraptor. All of them were smiling in their sleep. "You all deserved this. You've earned it after everything you've done. It's as Arceus said, you seven are linked for eternity."

She looked down at Nic once more as his sleeping form continued to rest. The stress was gone and all he needed was some rejuvenation.

Erza then got an idea.

She had a new resolve and knelt down towards Nic again. The redhead leaned even closer and she tentatively kissed Nic on the forehead. After she was satisfied, she parted and she began to stand. "I'll be back real soon. I promise."

She left the location and left Nic and his Pokemon to sleep through the shade. All of them continued smiling soundly in their sleep.

As Erza left, Nic moaned in his sleep. "Mmm…Erza…"

"Let's see…how about a dozen of these…this…yes, I'm sure this should do nicely." Erza was in the local food market, looking for various food of every group. There were a number of assorted fruits, vegetables, grain, dairy products, and meats of all specialties. "I'm sure Nic's Garchomp wouldn't mind this." She pondered about the two-foot-long sirloin in front, and decided that knowing Nic's Pokémon, Nic included, 'being picky' was not in their vocabulary.

She had so many foods to choose from, and she thought it wouldn't hurt to get anything less for them.

She was seen not long after leaving the food market with large brown paper bags. They were all filled with meat, veggies, fruit, and the soft and dairy necessities were on top. "I hope it's worth the jewel I put into it." She looked around the locations, seeing and looking at what else she may be missing. There was no shortage of food on her watch, but it was really more of home necessities.

Her eyes widened upon realization again. Her teeth gritted. "How careless of me…" She growled. "I forgot a cookbook-!"

"Hey, Erza."

Before Erza could turn and march straight back to the market section of town, a familiar voice got the knight's attention. She turned around with surprise to find someone in the same location. It was none other than Lisanna.

"Oh, Lisanna." Erza responded. "What are you doing here?"

"I was actually running errands for my big sis. She says she needs some ingredients for the guild. Elfman's out on a job, so it all evens out." Her blue yes looked to the large bags of groceries in Erza's arms. The assortment of meats and food piqued her interests. "Say, what're you doing with all of that food?"

"This?" Erza looked to the bags she carried. "They're just supplies I need." She smiled at Lisanna with high hopes. "I'm…gonna make Nic dinner."

"You're cooking Nic dinner?" Lisanna's eyes widened. It soon dawned upon her the reasons behind Erza's actions. It made sense that she would do it for Nic. They were together for one reason, and the other being that he's been through enough and deserved some treats. She then sweat dropped. "Although, I don't really think he has that big of an appetite, Erza."

"It's not just Nic."

"Oh?"

"It's also for Greninja, Charizard, and the rest of Nic's Pokémon. If I'm honest with myself, I don't think Nic would enjoy his dinner if his Pokémon didn't get to eat. They worked hard as well to save our lives, they need this just as badly as Nic does."

Lisanna smiled with happiness over Erza's commitment for Nic and his well-being. Who's to say she couldn't be of service?

"Say, you don't mind if I can help in any way, right?" Lisanna asked. "I think it would be a great idea if I could help get anything you need."

Erza nodded. "If that is your wish, I shall accept in kind."

The young Take-Over Strauss clasped her hands together. "Then I say we find something to freshen up the air! I know a candle shop with some scented candles."

"And where Nic is, the bed there will need new sheets. I would imagine he'd want them blue or purple."

"You got it!" Lisanna rushed along with bravado to a nearby market section with the candles she needed. As she was of help, Erza turned back towards the food market and added some pacing into her step. 'Hang on, Nic. We'll make this a meal you won't forget.'

It took hours to find everything they needed. Lisanna helped carry the excess supplies in a large bag she had in hand. The candles and sheets she had inside her a bit heavy and fragile, but nothing she couldn't handle. She and Erza both made it to the second building, which was now vacant.

"So this is where Nic is hiding, huh?" She pondered.

Erza nodded. "Yes, it's better for him this way. We'd want a quiet and serene location so as not be bothered. I think it's best to leave him be here."

Lisanna sweat dropped. "Guess I should keep Natsu and everyone from finding out so they don't crash in, huh?"

Erza turned towards the white-haired Strauss girl with a serious and stern look. "I prefer it that they don't intervene, please. Harsh and brash is only gonna make things complicated."

"Gotcha." Lisanna carried the grocery bag inside and placed it on a table. Afterwards she turned towards Erza. "Well I guess I'll leave you to it."

Erza placed her heavy grocery bags down and smiled towards Lisanna. "I am in your debt. Thank you."

"No problem. What are guild mates for?" Lisanna thus made way and departed, leaving Erza be to make do with her job.

The redhead looked at her groceries and every other necessity Lisanna helped her with. There was a lot of work that was needed to be done, and there was no time like the present. Erza didn't waste anymore time and looked around for the pots and pans hidden away in the cupboards. Once she had set them out, she pulled out the cookbook she had purchased and started the first recipe.

"Requip!"

She requipped a white apron and her hair was tied back in a ponytail. At her disposal were a few knives and utensils and she had begun with the thought of Nic on the line. With him as motivation, she began cooking.

Mirajane huffed as someone left the bar, taking an overnight job. After he had left, she gave a sigh with a smile. "Gee, talk about busy. That's the fiftieth job someone's taken today." In her musings, her attention drew towards the guild doors. They were open, revealing the setting sun. The sky was a beautiful orange and red hue blended sultrily. "Oh my, it's that late already?"

Entering the doors of the guild hall were people of sheer coincidence. They were Sophie, Vanessa, and her Braixen.

"Sorry we're back so late." Sophie apologized.

"Oh? It's good to see you three doing well." Mira smiled at them as they came around to the bar. "So, how was the job?"

Vanessa turned towards Braixen. "Some gold smugglers were persistent, but Braixen's Fire Spin had them scared enough."

"In truth, it wasn't a hassle." Braixen said.

Sophie seemed to have lamented with a hand to her own cheek. "Still, we were barely able to pay rent. It looks like we're gonna be short on jewel this month."

Vanessa half grinned. "That's a shame."

Braixen seemed as hollow yet upbeat as her trainer. "And we have so many mouths to feed too."

Following their lead was another person entering. "Hey!" Lisanna walked on in with a carefree smile as she diverted her course towards the guild's bar, where her sister was. "Hi, Mira!"

"Hello, Lisanna." Mira greeted. "You just missed Elfman, he got back a little while ago, but he's making dinner tonight!"

Lisanna looked happy. "Oh hey, that's great! In fact…" She trailed off as she remembered the side note she was to be left alone. With the concept of dinner revolving around everyone's mind, she wanted to talk about how Erza and herself helped shopped for the former's attempt at making dinner. Instead, she watched her wording. "…I, hope it's stew."

Mirajane giggled. "Lucky guess."

"This talk about food is making me quite puckish." Vanessa nervously smiled. "I think we should head home."

Braixen nodded. "I'll say."

Sophie turned away with Vanessa and Braixen and waved back at the Strauss sisters. "See you tomorrow!" After an exchange of goodnights to the Strauss. The trio had departed from the guild hall with a completed job for the day, and stomachs to fill.

Mirajane then turned towards Lisanna with inquiry. "So, Lisanna…where are the groceries?"

Lisanna's eyes widened at the realization. She had all day, and instead of an errand, it turned into something completely different. All Lisanna could do was pale at her forgetfulness. "…oh."

Nic yawned and stretched his arms and legs out. The cracking of bone and the stretching of muscle was of a unique symphony. He groaned as he sat up groggily. As he lazily looked around, his vision was somewhat blurry. "Guys…?" He groaned.

At the same time, all six had sat up, awoken from their well-earned slumber. They all yawned and roared, leaving nearby birds to fly away. They closed their mouths and hunched either backwards or forwards. They all had awoken just like that, but at the wrong time.

"Sunset?" Nic questioned. His eyes stung and he used his hands to block the last rays of sun beaming on his face. A wing managed to be Nic's relief. He relaxed and sighed. "Thank you, Staraptor."

"We're all still pretty worn out; that's a given we can't ignore." The Predator Pokémon said.

"She'ssss right, Nic-ssssama." Arbok hissed. He opened his mouth and yawned. "Sssstill, what do you want ussss to do?"

Nic looked towards Greninja and vice versa. Both had the same groggy eyes. When Nic and Greninja looked to Charizard and Garchomp, they too had the same worn out expressions. They then looked towards Kecleon, whose head was tilted and her eyes twitched with her tongue hanging out. Her point taken.

Nic took in a deep breath and slowly leaned forward, stretching his spine. "…for our sake, let's take some time off and just rest. It's in our best interest."

Charizard thudded on his front, huffing out. "Somehow I knew you were gonna say that."

"Our stay in dreamland shall be one to relish in…" Kecleon toppled down like a tower, napping hard again.

Garchomp growled low. "I'm all in for that. How am I supposed to fight and break bone if I can barely get my feet underneath?"

Nic smiled as his Pokémon agreed. A small part of him would've thought they'd all object to his plan of rest, but that part barely had a say. His gut and mind were all worn out. They just needed a break from routine was all, and seeing the satisfied looks on the six and vice versa on Nic was all they needed to confirm their resolve. They've earned it.

Charizard's nose twitched. "Say…" He raised his head off the ground and slowly got up. When he stood, he faced the sunset. "Does anybody else smell that?"

Garchomp took a step. "Smells like supper to me."

Arbok hissed. "Who'ssss in there?!"

Staraptor looked on edge as were the rest of them. "Seems the building isn't as vacant as it seems."

Kecleon suddenly straightened up. "I'm hungry, but I'm also thirsty…but we have more than enough punch to go around."

Greninja stood up. "Yeah, but are they…" He sniffed the air. "Well I guess we'll have to see."

Nic led them to the doorway. "Anyone there?" He got no answer, instead it was sizzling grease. "Hello?" He looked back to his Pokémon who all had the same odd expression. They were battle-ready, but at the same time they could barely stand. It was a peculiar meaning of interpretation.

They all silently stepped inside, and immediately their eyes widened. They could've sworn that they were looking at a gift sent by Arceus. Before them was a masterpiece, and that's when they figured out where the delicious aroma was derived from.

All of the tables were joined together into one. Eight chairs, four for each side, were all lined up.

Nic was rendered speechless. "Erza…?"

Placing the last pan of fresh, steaming food on the heat pad, Erza looked up. She was initially shocked at first, but showed a soft smile. She saw Nic's surprise and took off her mittens. Placing them on the bar close to the sink, she then turned and walked up to him.

She requipped herself back into her usual attire and presented the food to Nic. "Nic, dinner is ready."

There was no end to the banquet Erza had made. There was ham and potato soup with green onion diced into it, noodles, rice, curry, sirloin, pork, chicken, salads, fruit salad, and so much more. Nic was without any labels of speech. His eyes turned blankly towards Erza. His shock was casted aside and he pieced it altogether. The love of his life had just spent all day, preparing a rewarding banquet for her love, and she had been cooking with all the love she could give. It really touched Nic's heart and he tenderly smiled at Erza for her gift to him.

"Erza, you did all of this…for us?"

Erza smiled. "Yes." She walked on over and placed the last lit candle on the windowsill. All around the tavern-like base, there were jar candles that were giving a rich, vanilla scent. It was just too much to take, and Nic looked to his six and they all grinned at the same time. If they didn't have a case of coincidental dumb luck before, they did now. They wanted food, and for once they didn't have to work or buy for it.

Erza watched with a smile as Nic sat down across from her and the Pokémon all took their seats. With a last word of thanks to Erza for all that she's done, that had begun digging in. The three pitchers of water were drank up quickly. The noodles bathed in chicken broth were slurped down fast. Garchomp practically ripped the sirloin apart, Arbok swallowed slivers of pork down, Kecleon opened up and chewed on a spoonful of the ham and potato soup, Charizard devoured meats left and right, but he made sure to leave room for nutrients in the dressed salad. Staraptor was no picky eater herself as the food in front of her was gone in a flash, and then seconds. Greninja was eating fruit salad with a satisfied face, and ate just as voraciously as everyone else.

Nic swallowed a piece of chicken leg and savored the flavor. As he ate with equal ecstasy as the other six, Erza was happy and surprised at how fast all of the food was gone. There was literally nothing left when they all finished, they even chewed straight through the bone.

"Erza, we really can't thank you enough." Nic said.

Erza stood up and got all of the dirty dished gathered. "You're welcome. I'm happy you all loved it." She was telling the truth when she meant it. As she turned the faucet water on and poured in the soap, she smiled at how Nic, despite a voracious eater he was, ate all of the food Erza lovingly cared to make for him and his Pokémon.

Nic stood up out of his chair. "Erza, I'll go find a towel to dry the-"

"It's okay, Nic, really." She looked back at him. "I know you wanna help, but I assure you, I'm okay."

Nic frowned, but then grinned at the decision. "…well if you're sure, I won't intrude."

"There's some fresh clothes and sheets on the bed for you to wear. Why don't you all relax?"

It really wasn't much of an option for them. Rest was their priority, so they heeded her words and Nic returned Greninja and the others to their Poke Balls for them to do just that. He went up the steps towards the attic, but not without one last look at Erza. She was smiling; content. Seeing that smile meant Nic had nothing to regret, so he made way up and saw some fresh purchased purple shirt and black pants.

He first went inside the shower that was installed in the attic – much to how oddly misplaced it was – and freshened up. Once the hot shower water hit his face, it was like a relief washed over him. The skin was cleansed of any grass stains and he soon came out fresh as day, despite how the sun had set long ago.

Now in bed, Nic skipped the purple shirt and wore the black pants. They were very snug, like bedwear. The dark blue sheets and blanket were as equally soft. He laid in the bed and had hands behind the back of his head, left to ponder.

Today was nothing but sleep, more sleep, followed by a massive explosion of supper prepared for by Erza. She did it all for him. While he wanted to return her kindness, he knew that she did it in regards to his health.

The creaking from the steps from across the attic got his attention. He saw Erza walk on up the steps and present herself with her attire still on.

"So, how did you like dinner?" She asked, taking a chair and looking at Nic from a few feet away.

Nic turned over and looked at Erza. He kept an inviting smile in kind. "I must say, one of us ever had a meal like that before. It was always whatever we could scrounge around for…thank you, I mean it."

Erza looked happily towards Nic and leaned in a little. "Nic, you've been through a lot, haven't you?" She paused as she and Nic stared at the other. "You really did an amazing job outdoing yourself."

"I could say the same for your deed." Nic praised. Erza looked on as Nic was continuing from that point. "Erza, I know what I did deserves the most genuine praise, but as far as appreciation goes, I was content with us being together last night on that beach. I can't fathom how much effort you put into this for us." His head slowly settled down into the pillow, letting slumber succumb him. "You're…amazing…!"

A heavy weight suppressed his hips and made the mattress bounce. The sudden addition of weight made Nic lose sight of what was in front of him.

"What?" Looking up with surprise, Erza was straddling him. Her red hair hung down from her frame and she leaned down, pressing her breasts against his bare chest. "Erza…" Though he had inquiry, he was unable to say anything as Erza's passionate kiss cut him off. The two were caught up in a moment of sheer bliss as their minds were going into their own worlds.

Erza pulled back a few inches and hushed him. "Sssh…let's just enjoy each other while we still can."

Nic had no objections; in fact, he was all for it. He surprised Erza by pulling her in from the mid-back and kissing her back. It was Erza's turn to be in shock, but she returned in kindness. Her soft lips exploited Nic's own as the two pulled the blanket over themselves. They laughed as the scent of strawberries and vanilla thickened the air. All they could hear from the other was their sweet voices and the clashing of their lips that drew the other in.

That night, Nic and Erza had one of the best sleeps as of yet.

"Kihihihi." Obra had been running straight into the woods, lost in the dawn of night. The small animal-like creature had one aim, and it was his master calling to him. Ever since the Grand Magic Games, he's been keeping a close eye on Fairy Tail. After he had departed from the guild hall scene, the little creature ran on and came across an open spot in the forest.

Obra saw a lone man sitting on the grass, looking into the norm. Without warning, Obra jumped on the man's shoulder and sat comfortably after the long trail he trekked.

The man that was his master…was Zeref.

The Black Wizard himself had no smile as he saw in a desolate spot amongst the grass. He didn't even notice Obra present at the time. He was too lost as the wildlife around him rustled with the shift of winds that brought a familiar, but far from ordinary nor comforting, feeling. Someone else was there.

"So, you were watching the Grand Magic Games as well. Zeref."

Behind him, with her ethereal form floating in the air, was Master Mavis. She, unlike her usual perky self, had no glee. Her tone was flat.

Zeref gave no heed nor care as to turn around. Rather he just grinned.

"I can neither hear you nor see you, sweet Mavis." He said. "But I know full well that you are in my precense."

"It's been seven years since we've been this close."

"It's been seven years since we've been this close to one another."

Mavis planted her feet on the ground, not making a single sound. "You were there, weren't you? You were no different from anyone else at the hands of that monster Lysandre, Zeref."

Zeref remained silent.

"You were scared, right? His dark wrath almost plunged the universe into a void of eternal darkness…I myself get shivers still of this dark infinity he manifested from pure hatred amongst not nut humans, but everything."

Zeref looked back at her with a half-grin. "I cannot lie when your accusations were spot-on. You were always the smart one, weren't you?" Obra looked confused on his shoulder, but said nothing as the scene unfolded in the thick of night. "Yes, I was scared. He was no different from my status, and yet he had a much larger picture. His concepts, however, were what intrigue me. He spoke to me on that day seven years ago, the day my Black Arts was nothing more than food to him. He scorned humanity, but more so, he scoffed at every living thing that defied him."

The forest life rustled as the winds shifted again.

"This new age Lysandre wanted, it was not but no age at all. It wasn't purgatory at all; he almost succeeded in making the underworld look like a heaven. In my case, I am relieved…Lysandre, in truth, could have easily ended me as he could anyone else. I could've died along with you all at long last, succumbing to the afterlife…but thanks to Nic Pularis, I now have to bear with seeing humanity rise and fall again. I'll have to witness their wickedness, their anguish, desires, and greed take them over, reducing them to savages."

Mavis looked at Zeref's frown, seeing how his tone was dead serious near the end. "So then what do you have in mind?"

Zeref stood up from his dead grassy spot and turned around towards Mavis. Obra jumped off of his shoulder as the grass all around was starting to wither and die. The nearby trees and forest life, leaves, trees, and so on, all succumbed to death. The air thickened into a venomous feeling. With the life around them nothing more than terrible hues laid waste into the night, Zeref clenched his fists.

"Unlike Lysandre, I still want to live in a world, but a world that shall no longer bear witness to suffering. I want to dawn a new era, this one where balance shall be restored…" His eyes showed, revealing them to be a heated red. "This war fought a few nights ago may have been the apocalypse…but unlike that failure, I will make sure this shall be a one-sided massacre. No one shall be spared."

Mavis had her own scary look in her eyes, which contrasted herself completely. "I swear, Fairy Tail will stop you."

"You're wrong. Lysandre was the one truly capable of bringing me to my end. The only ones who shall be at my match, shall be Natsu and Nic Pularis. To them, their time will come."

The two had a long standoff, staring coldly at the other with defiance over their point of views.

The night was still fresh, and seagulls that were still up on the coastline made but little noise as they snooped away towards their nests. The crabs along the rocky shores snipped their claws and scuttled away as another wave crashed onto the rock. The shoreline was of rock, with near-inland being of grass and shallow bay terrain.

As the sea waves drew seaweed and other material to the shores, something was coming into view. The calm waters swayed around, and yet the raft Nic and his Pokémon made had survived. Every picture, frame, even the earbuds and phone miraculously survived the ocean voyage into the norm.

The raft drifted in a wayward manner soon reaching a small stretch of land that was flat enough for it to finally settle down on.

An unknown figure in a black cloak made no footsteps as they were shrouded by the wispy cuts on the bottom of the cloak, almost like a phantom. He had a conical straw hat with white streamers that obscured his eyes.

Curious, he silently approached the raft. "Well, well…" He sounded like a young male. He crouched down and scrutinized the item that washed up along the shore. As a calm night's wind brewed, the streamers picked up, revealing his right eye with a monocle inside of an eyepiece attached to his face. He looked at the individual pieces such as the phone and the earbuds, but what got his attention were the number of faces made.

Upon seeing the picture of Nic, Erza, and Vanessa, he could be seen smirking in the dead of night. "What do we have here?"

Here's the first chapter of the sequel, A Contender's Bonds! There are a few things for me to explain, and I'll start with the plot that I have in store. As far as how I made the first chapter immediately after the events of Nic giving up the Plates back to Arceus, there is no main villain like The Fairy Contender's Lysandre and Dark Legendaries. Instead, the sequel's main plot is really just the rest of Fairy Tail's series. The Plates was another story entirely, literally, and the sequel will focus more solemnly on Nic and Erza's relationship, so there you have it.

As many of you were aware, Nic wasn't as active as you had thought; I intended that. With him resting up for a couple chapters, as I imagined anyone would after what he's been through, Erza will take over for a little bit, but I won't count out the Pokémon yet.

Unlike what I did in the past, the format will be different. There will no longer be a "To Recap" or "Chapter…" or a "Next Time: …" rather it'll be so that I always keep you guys guessing on what'll come next. Also, I won't hardly do any beginning A/N, rather if I have anything to say or answer to, it'll be saved for the end.

Hope you all enjoyed the return of Nic and his Pokémon! As always, review and comment, and thanks for reading and loving NicxErza!