Chapter 12: The Scarlet Fever 1/2

Chapter 12 – The Scarlet Fever

Sup peeps, I'm baaaaaaack! You guys may be wondering why it was taking me so long; well, allow me to explain. I've been paying a whole bunch of attention to EDventures in Kalos, trying to update it with three new chapters in a span of two weeks. Add the fact that I also have school and life in general to deal with.

Now to answer some Reviews.

kingdom cure: Yeah, I thought that part itself was pretty hilarious myself. I appreciate you enjoyed the epic fight scenes.

Guest: Thanks for loving the fights. I played the game, so I had a pretty good grasp on Ramos's personality. About the length of the story, I have absolutely no idea. I'll be adding very few Original Arcs, so it's not like the entire story is shifted about. If I am lucky, I'll be on par with the anime. If push comes to shove, then I'll go by the manga.

So this Arc took some thinking, and I needed this time off for that reason as well. This is the result of what I managed to put together.

Enjoy!

To Recap:

Though the Guild Hall was destroyed, the Fairy Tail Mages, and a recovered Makarov, destroyed Jose's shades. Erza and the others made it back to shore, leaving Nic and Greninja to fight Jose while everyone watched. The huge quarrel was extremely intense, but Jose was defeated and Nic and Greninja both won. One week went by and Phantom Lord has disbanded. Laxus and Nic both get into a little tiff, but stopped before things got out of hand. With stress piling on him, Nic wasn't thinking straight. Erza decided to battle him to ease himself and test how strong he was. Though it was intense as well, Nic managed to defeat Erza. With everyone celebrating, they didn't they were being watched.

Chapter 12 – The Scarlet Fever

Though things were just dandy on Earthland, the same couldn't be said in other worlds. With Arceus slowly dying, galaxies are colliding, black holes are fluctuating, planets' gravity fields are increasing and decreasing. A few places were safe at this time, mainly Nic's world, a couple of other worlds, and Earthland.

In a spacial dimension of blue and pink stardust, Dialga and Palkia both appeared through spacial portals. They both flew at each other and stopped when they met each other.

"So how's Arceus holding up?" Palkia asked the Being of Time. Dialga went to check on Arceus earlier in the deep, deep depths of the universe, and his condition was getting worse. He almost looked like a lifeless being. He was pale, his eyes were almost shaking, and his power was declining.

Dialga looked down and shook his long head. "Not good. He's not improving much."

Palkia sighed and looked down in grief. "Well, we can't do a thing about it. We can only hope for the best." Palkia and Dialga then looked at each other and could tell that the other isn't dealing with Arceus's condition very well. It was rough seeing a role model, as well as a god, beginning to die off. They both sighed and silently prayed that his condition gets better.

"So, how is Nic Pularis doing?" Dialga asked.

Palkia looked in another direction, as if not feeling too glee about his own answer. "Seven Plates."

Dialga looked down and tried to hold back any urge to shout. "C'mon Nic, you're running out of time." He muttered.

Palkia tried to reassure the irritated Being of Time. "Easy Dialga. If Nic could get at least nine Plates, then the universe can still be stable."

"Yeah, but barely…"

Meanwhile, on Earthland…

Nic arose from his sleep and looked about. Sleeping in a Guild Hall-in-construction did feel a bit weird, but it was better than a smelly alleyway, but just as rough as a rooftop, though he didn't complain about it. The only reason he didn't sleep on the tables was because they still had booze from when Cana did a drinking contest against Elfman and Macao, of which she won with ease.

Nic jumped into the guild shower that were repaired and refurnished from yesterday and felt the hot water ease his senses for a relaxing five minutes. After which, he had taken the liberty and prepared his own breakfast that was comprised of fresh fruit and an omelet. It wasn't long before the rest of the guild members had arrived and it was as loud as always.

His mind was zooming about in various directions. He was thinking about several things, and no, none of them involved Erza. His mind was solemnly concentrated on the universe, how he could possibly save it, how he could get more Plates, how he could save everyone he cherishes.

He was brought back to reality when Loke passed by.

"Hey man." Nic greeted. The young lady magnet stopped and turned towards Nic.

"Oh, it's you Nic." Loke greeted casually. For some reason, he was looking rather sickly. Nic caught onto this and looked somewhat concerned for his fellow Fairy Tail Mage.

"You don't look so good. Everything okay?"

Loke had some circles under his eyes, indicating that he's been sleep deprived and his shoulders were rather slumped. He looked just as troubled as he was.

Loke tried to grin, but it turned into a more grimace look rather than an assuring smile. "Don't worry, I've been having nightmares, should pass by soon. I'm just fine man."

Nic wasn't a fool. He knew that Loke wasn't all that well, his 'under the weather' façade was a weak cover. It was then that he remembered that this was the first time he has seen Loke within the past week. Wonder where he's been? He's barely around the makeshift bar, and the girls in town were stopping by to see if he was around, which he wasn't. It looks as though that Loke has been keeping to himself.

Nic wanted to help, but he could clearly see that Loke wanted no one in his business. Nic could relate, he had problems of his own, and Loke saw that too.

Nic dropped the subject. "Just don't push yourself."

Loke nodded gratefully and pressed on and he avoided Lucy when she turned to see if Natsu and Happy were coming, of which they were running a tad late. Nic turned away and almost groaned in discomfort of this drama.

Later, on the train…

Erza stared out of the window and watched the landscape come and go. Nic sat across from her on the cushion, leaning back and trying to breathe soundly while he had his earbuds in. If anything, you would think that Nic would be dozing off, of which he was trying to do.

"Hey Erza, mind if I tag along on your job request?" Nic asked. "I'm feeling up for a job and I've been meaning to get out of town. It's getting pretty tedious around here."

He hit the nail on the head. Ever since reconstruction, the entire guild has been going on jobs, leaving the place quiet and quite uncomfortable to bear. A few stayed, but it wasn't as lively.

Nic had helped a bit in the construction, as did Charizard, but it still didn't change much of anything.

"Sure, I could use the help." She replied.

Nic let a smile come across his face. "Sweet. Ready whenever you are. Holler when it's time to go!" And just like that, Nic went off and chilled somewhere.

Erza smiled as she watched Nic go. She couldn't help but reflect on how big of an impression he left on everybody, including herself. He defeated numerous opponents, some being S-Class, including herself, and a now former Wizard Saint. Not to mention that his personality overall is interesting. He never allows his comrades to fall and gets them back onto their feet, and he never surrenders to anybody.

Although, she had to wonder about herself, was that the only reason she was looking forward to this mission with him? Is it just because of his power and capability? Ever since the downfall of Phantom Lord, and the defeat of herself, she's been feeling funny around Nic. She unconsciously brushes a strand of hair that was out of place if Nic was around, she would sometimes find herself staring at him if he's close by and doing some reconstruction, and she gets somewhat riled up when she sees Nic go behind the bar with Cana whenever a fight broke out. Not to mention that she had a funny feeling back in the Phantom Lord giant.

What did this even mean? Did she find him appealing in some way other than his looks and strength? Sure, he had a great charisma, just ask anybody and they'll say Nic is the bomb. But was that it? These foreign feelings was creating a turbulence of butterflies in her stomach and chest, making it hard for her to think whenever he was close by.

She had to sort this stuff out later and try and pick out a job. Erza showed Mira a job request and the former S-Class waitress giggled.

"I never knew you were this forward." Mira teased. "Taking Nic to a hot springs is a bit much for a first date, don't you think?" Mira's giggle turned into a small laugh when she saw how lustered Erza's face had gotten.

Erza tried to maintain her composure as she took the request from Mira. "It's nothing like that. I can assure you."

"Oh chill Erza, you're just too much fun when it comes to teasing." Mira said. She then winked as she let out another sentence. "Okay, I'll tell the Master. Have fun, but make sure you give Nic a show to remember before y-!"

"Silence!" Erza was beyond mortified, and her face showed it. She turned and took off as Mira giggled at her reactions.

Erza was starting to show a very light blush, thinking back to what her friend had said. Curse Mira's imagination!

"Uh, hello? If you stare out the window any more intensely, the landscape might spontaneously combust."

She was brought out of her perverted thoughts when she heard Nic getting her attention. She turned her head a half-grin. "Lost in your own thought I see?"

"I was pondering about the mission at hand." She said. It wasn't a complete lie; she was thinking about it somewhat, but then her mind started drifting off into those unwanted scenarios that Mira had envisioned them doing.

Nic nodded. "For sure. We need a plan." Nic suggested, now up and looking serious.

The request was from a man who owned a top-class inn. For some reason, and as of recently, a series of people disappearing here and there whenever they come to visit from other towns. This was making people very weary and he wished to put an end to the madness so business could go on as usual.

The town was known as Balsam Village, also known as Spa Town Hosenka. Erza had gotten back from doing a mission with Lucy and the others from doing some freaky and crazy play on Onibus, and the team needed a little time to chill. Erza didn't want to chill, but wanted to stay at the top of her game and go on this job.

"Agreed. We should consult with the people in charge that wish the keep the peace. Not to mention if they have any leads on any speculations." Erza said.

Erza was rather surprised when Nic shook his head. "It's not that simple. If the one's we're after have sources dwelling about, then they'll be onto us. Plus if they were targeting a specific spot, they would attempt to lure us there. From what I've heard, the town rather vast in area, so his or her sources could easily blend into the crowd. If it were a small town, it would be easy to smoke them out, but this isn't the case and the numbers could be concentrated as groups throughout the area."

Erza was surprised by Nic's insight. What he had explained was all too accurate.

"Then how do we get around without being noticed?" She asked.

Nic crossed his arms and narrowed his eyes. "Well, we'll have to play this game by the old fashion way. We'll most likely have to blend in as well, and given that our names are well-known now, we'll have to masquerade the whole gimmick. Name and everything.

Erza and Nic both sat still, pondering about what approach they could use. What sort of alias could they pull off without getting too much attention? Erza has been to Balsam Village before, and she was remembering what the town was well known for. From what she could remember, the place was known for its hot spring and also heard that it was a well-known spot for…

"Erza, why are you blushing?" Nic asked.

She had just remembered that other part. "I think I have an idea."

Later, in Balsam Village…

The "couple" walked into town and through the streets, looking for the specific inn that they would be staying at. Some of the townsfolk just passed by, not giving a care to the world about their arrival. Some just glanced at them as they passed, but didn't seem interested. They all shook off whatever suspicion since all they did was make eyes at each other. They looked like an ordinary young couple, or so they thought.

"Akio-kun, I thought I told you that the inn was due east." The woman said, pretending to be somewhat exasperated with him.

The man in sunglasses shrugged. "How am I suppose to know where east is? The sun hasn't set yet."

She sighed. "You're so bemusing."

"But you love me anyway." "Akio" replied with a cheeky smile and a high brow. "Akira" turned her head away so that "Akio" couldn't see her blush up a small storm.

'Curse him. Why does he have to be such a smooth talker?'

Nobody around had a clue, but Erza was feeling extremely embarrassed and a little awkward. The two agreed to undergo a temporary persona and act as a couple since this place was a romantic hotspot. They even picked false names to go with their disguises.

Erza was now Akira. She wore fake glasses and had her hair tied up into a bud with a few thick strands running down her shoulders. She had on black legging and a long skirt with a vertical and horizontal light orange stripes on dark orange coloring. She had on a button up red T-shirt to compliment the skirt.

Nic had on his sunglasses to not reveal his eyes. He had on a thin jacket and had his hood up, but the jacket was unzipped, revealing a green T-shirt and some plain old jeans.

They went down the path that "Akira" suggested. Nic made their roles much more believable by making small talk and keeping up with the other's fake personality. She had to admit, it was pretty nice to talk about stuff that wasn't in regards to the mission, though they were on one. After a few minutes went by, they have arrived and they found themselves staring at the classy looking inn.

"Not too shabby." Nic noted, somewhat impressed.

"Come on, time is wasting." Erza said. She pulled him along and he chuckled, still in character.

"Can't wait to get me alone, can ya Akira-chan?" He wiggled his eyebrows a bit at her and couldn't help but laugh from her comical expression. Nic had to admit that she was cute when she blushed like that, not to mention her comical expression in general. Erza was so stoic and stern all the time around the guild, it was nice to see this side of her; of course, it could be Akira, you never could tell.

They then approached the front desk. At the desk was a blonde receptionist with a smile.

"Hello, and welcome to the Chokichi Inn. How may we help you?" She greeted.

"Yeah, do you by any chance have a room for two please?" "Akio" asked.

"Why of course." She responded in a peppy manner. She then noticed their interlocked arms. "There are plenty of honeymoon suites available if you chose to."

The two undercover guild members had a slight tint of pink on their faces of the reminder.

"Yes, we would like one of those." Erza replied. "Perhaps by any chance with a balcony?"

The receptionist then perked up, remembering a good spot. "I know just the one. It has the best view in town. You get the best sunsets and the entire outlook on the town."

"That would be nice Tori, thanks." Nic said, quickly analyzing and saying the receptionist's name without pausing.

She handed them the room keys and filled out some forms. After which, they were brought to the attention of Tori ringing a bell and a bellhop appeared, giving them guidance to the flight of stairs.

"Please enjoy your stay and feel free to ask any questions." Tori said before they turned and went up the stairs.

"So, what brings you two around here?" The bellhop person replied. Nic and Erza then flashed back to what Nic said back on the train. This guy could very well be an informant of the people they wanted to catch. If they wanted to keep their covers, they had to choose their words carefully.

"Well, Akira-chan and I wanted a scenery change. We just wanted to get away from it all, ya know?"

"Ah, I get it." The bellhop said. "Working all of the time can lead to a dull life. Why here though? Not to sound pessimistic, but wouldn't the Hoshi Inn be a better choice?"

Nic was about to open his mouth, but Erza was a tad too fast. "Actually, that was our first choice, but we figured that the place could very well be crowded and heavily loud with the abundance of residence. We both prefer a more sound and less disruptive environment."

The bellhop smirked at the guy in sunglasses. "I can see who wears the pants in this relationship."

"Eh, but she's wearing a skirt." Nic deadpanned. The bellhop and Erza both dropped at the sense of humor he was making. "On another note, I heard this place is pretty popular by itself, but it seems rather quiet. Isn't it supposed to be packed by this time of year?" This was an opportunity to get whatever intel he needed.

The bellhop then stood back up and continued up the flight of stairs. "Well…that's something we don't like to discuss."

"About what?" Erza asked.

They then reached another floor and the bellhop looked around to see if anyone was around, of which no one was. "Alright, but you have to keep this classified." He lowered his voice into a loud whisper. "About three weeks ago, people from town had begun to disappear for some odd reason. Our sources say that a single group is accused, but others aren't sure if it's just one person. I even know a guy who've seen a hulking monster taking off in the thick of night with three innocence. It was too fast before he could get a good glimpse though. As you can see, the news has spread rapidly and other places nearby, and that's probably why you are the first in awhile."

"That's very unfortunate." Erza stated.

Nic frowned. "I'm sorry to hear."

The bellhop waved it off. "It's nothing really. Hopefully it'll come to an end. Our guards should just get off their lazy behinds and do their job. For real, they're ignoring the case like it's none of their concern!"

Nic clenched his fists in anger after hearing that. He didn't even know he was until Erza took one of his hands in both of hers and squeezed it, reassuring the easily annoyed warrior. She didn't like this either, but they had a job to do. To put a stop to the madness is why they're here after all.

The employee sighed. "Sorry for the trouble, it's been stressful."

"We understand." Nic said.

"Well, enough melancholy. You guys are on vacation and your room is just up ahead." The bellhop said, trying to sound peppy. They then stepped in front of a door that read "144" on it after taking a left from coming up the stairs.

They opened the door and the room was pretty classy. The room was high class, but not too much. It had a very calm and comfortable atmosphere all about. A small kitchen was on one side and a dining room was right next to it. The living room itself was very well furnished and the color scheme of peach and light tan made a comfortable place indeed. Beyond the living room was a set of double doors that lead to a balcony overlooking everything. Erza and Nic then went to inspect the bedroom and boy was it something. The pillows were so soft you could sleep just from the slightest touch. There were a few movie lacrimas that were on the counter top that stretched all the way across the one end of the room to where it was under the large mirror that was over the counter and the dresser. Across from it was a single large bed that was fresh and covered with fine fabric for sheets. A bathroom door was also connected.

Nic then noticed that there was something peculiar about something that left him feeling uncomfortable. Near the end of the counter was a light purple lacrima that did not adjust to the color scheme and had a fresh scent to it. Nic shook this off as the bellhop was speaking.

"Is it to your liking?" He asked.

Nic turned and grinned. "This will do very nicely." He then pulled out some jewels and gave it to the bellhop as a tip.

The bellhop looked rather surprised. "Thank you. Hundred jewels is rather much."

Nic shrugged. "Consider it a token for telling a story to us along the way."

"I'd best leave you two lovebirds to be. If you need anything, there's a small communication lacrima right next to the sofa in the living room."

The bellhop then shut the door as he left. Nic let out a large breath as he quickly changed back into his standard clothing in the blink of an eye.

"So, any suggestions on taking this course of action?" Erza asked, now out of her Akira persona.

Nic, still wanting to be in his role, struck a thinking pose. "Let's go explore the rest of town. We can get dinner and maybe even see those hot springs."

He was met with a glare from Erza and hands on her hips. "Nic, we don't have time for that." She berated. "Lives are at stake here. We are not here on vacation and we need to see the client as soon as we can."

"Easy Erza." Nic said, now acting like himself. "Just hear me out for a minute."

She then waited as he continued. "The most vital concept is reconnaissance. We have no clue as to who these culprits are or what they want with civilians, or where they hide, or how they operate. I'll have Kecleon do a quick survey of town and report back if she sees them anywhere. It's most likely that some people know of our presence, making us easy targets, and that would make it hard for us to snoop about, especially in a large area with a thick population as such. We need to keep our covers for a bit longer, at least until we meet up with our client. As soon as we know who these dim-witted numbskulls are, we strike them when they least expect it."

Erza was left speechless by his plan of action. "How are you so perceptive?" She was rather curious.

Nic shrugged. "I got around Kalos a lot back when I was in my world, and there was a place named Lumiose City. Same concept, large population and crimes, and I tend to get a little experience from that."

Erza was once again surprise because Nic was in a similar situation, or has seen it at least. She had to admit that she was rather curious of this Kalos place. Now she's even more interested of Kalos. She would have to get answers from him of that place soon.

Right now was the time to get their acting personas together again. Nic quickly changed back into his fake attire and extended his arm and looped it around Erza's. "C'mon Akira, let's find us some dinner."

Erza nodded, ready to go forth and initiate the plan.

Nic threw up a poke ball and Kecleon came out. She tilted her head and was ready for action.

"The gravy train is ready for pouring!" Kecleon shouted, shouting that she was ready. She even did a mock salute and had her tongue hanging out.

"You know what to do." Nic said. With that simple phrase, Kecleon rid herself of her silly expression and nodded. In a flash, she had made herself invisible and she was off. Once she was out of sight, Nic and Erza both exited the room and hooked arm and arm as they went to find a nice restaurant.

Later, again…

"Oh boy, I never seem to have time to eat anymore." Nic said. "Haven't had an omelet in several days." He scanned the various places that had food all about.

Erza looked at Nic and almost sighed at his statement. "Do you ever think of anything else?"

"It's not my fault that omelets are the food of the gods. I got it just as bad as your addiction to strawberry cheesecake." Nic boldly defended. "Though, I don't think I've ever eaten one before."

Mind blown!

He had her there. "You make a good point. We should look for a place that sells both."

"Sure, okay."

Then they passed by a middle aged man who stopped them. "Why hello there! My, you two look fabulous. This will be just perfect, please sit."

Before they could say anything or even ask what the somewhat pudgy man was doing, he rushed them onto the two wooden stools. Obviously he was excited. Erza shot Nic a confused look, of which the latter did the same.

"Smile!" The man said. He stood a few feet away right next to a blank canvas on wooden support.

Then there light blue flash and they both blinked.

"Nobody told me it was picture day." Nic complained, but the man wasn't paying attention.

"Oh no, this won't do. Please try and look more relaxed. Let's try this once more." He then set off another blue flash and this made Nic and Erza see stars.

"Okay pal, hold it right there." Nic testified in annoyance. "What's the big idea?!"

The man blinked a few times and came to realize he was too caught up in the moment. "Oh dear, forgive me. I got carried away for a moment. I am Joseph, an artist."

Nic blinked a few times, remembering that he himself is an artist. Sure being a trainer could bring you a bit of cash over a few victories, but Nic made some profit himself back in Kalos by taking what he could find and make art out of it. If he was in a rocky place, he could probably make a sculpture of something and sell it somewhere, if there was clay or colored pencils around, he could make some use of those as well. He's made decent art throughout the years while traveling that he could make just about anything from anything. One of his works was probably still up in Lumiose City's art museum as they speak.

"Well, then you must have made quite a few works." Nic said, trying to reach an understanding level. Erza then looked at Nic and he was giving an expression that said 'Let me do the talking'.

"Why yes, I do. Sadly, no one bothers to remember my name." Joseph complained.

"Yeah, I hate it when that happens."

Joseph looked surprised. "You're an artist too?!"

Nic nodded. "Yeah, I do a little bit of art, but I'm not as famous as you." He wasn't lying, he was somewhat known through Kalos, though he hardly pays attention. He sees a few works of his own hanging up in cities and towns. He obviously did more than just train whenever he has free time.

"What a coincidence!...Oh! I did not even let you introduce yourselves." Joseph had just realized.

"I'm Akira and this is my boyfriend, Akio-kun." Erza gestured to the both of them.

"Ah, young love. Makes me wish I was in my twenties again. Good times." Joseph reminiscent. "This is just what I've been looking for! My next painting, depicting romance! And you two are just perfect!"

The two then blushed, thinking about that possibility, and Joseph caught up on it. "Don't be shy. This will only take a quick second, so just look natural." He then held up his hands like he was framing them and a small magic circle appeared. It flashed and then it was gone.

"A small warning next time would be really appreciated." Nic muttered.

"You can use Magic?" Erza asked.

"Why yes. My Memory Magic makes it so I can get every detail, which is why I'm so skilled in painting. The images are stored into my mind and the details are always there from that single moment. It's not useful in battle, but it comes in handy for blinding people to make a quick getaway if I need it." He chuckled on the last part.

"Now then, I have inconvenienced you two long enough." Joseph said. "Have a nice day you two." The pudgy man then went off with his canvas and wooden support.

"Huh, a bit eccentric, but in a good way." Nic commented when the painter was out of sight.

Erza agreed. "Let's hope he doesn't ambush every couple now."

They both then resumed their trip down the road to find some place to chow down.

Meanwhile…

Kecleon had snuck into the guard HQ with ease. She had it easy with no trouble up to this point.

"The captain wants everyone present. He says that this is vital." One of the guards said to an incoming guard who had come back from his shift.

The guard was a little confused. "About what?" Kecleon was paying attention to every detail and word that was transpiring about the atmosphere.

"Not a clue. Guess we'll find out." The guard said.

The two guards proceeded further into the building and Kecleon, still invisible, followed them upstairs to the second floor and into a rather big room where all of the other town guards were at. They were all lounging about and talking to each other about stuff. Kecleon snooped around and heard a few conversations.

"I heard they were back." A young guard said in a hushed tone, talking to three other guards.

"Not again." Another guard groaned.

"Maybe we should actually fight back this time." One suggested. "We have power in numbers, right?"