Prompt: Part two of The World's Best. Anyone can adopt this story if they please (Nischkolyar I'm talking to you), as well as the Black Clover Modern Magical Institute one.
—
As Queen Noelle and the Wizard King Asta led Team Natsu and Hisui through the heart of Clover, the fairies were in awe.
The kingdom's architecture, with its towering spires, intricate stonework, and glowing lanterns, seemed almost otherworldly in its beauty. The streets bustled with mages in flowing robes, knights in polished armor, and scholars clutching glowing grimoires, all exuding an air of magic so dense it was nearly visible. Even the air felt different, charged with a power that sent tingles down their spines.
Lucy took a deep breath and twirled once, as if soaking in the atmosphere. "It really feels like we stepped into a fairy tale," she murmured.
Wendy, more attuned to magical energies, furrowed her brows. "The mana here is so concentrated... I've never felt anything quite like it in Earthland. It reminds me of Ethernano, but even denser."
Carla, floating beside her, nodded in agreement. "It feels similar to Elentear, where Ethernano is so abundant that magic is virtually unlimited."
Hisui placed a thoughtful hand to her chin. "That makes sense. Remember, everyone in Quartalis is born with magic, so it's only natural that the Ethernano here would be much denser than back home."
Lucy hummed in agreement, though there was still wonder in her eyes. "Yeah... Even though magic has become more common in Earthland over the years, only about three in ten people have the potential to use it. And of those, only about one in five ever actually awaken their magic." She shook her head. "But here, magic is everywhere. It's kind of surreal."
Gray smirked and crossed his arms. "So does that mean this kingdom is about to explode?"
The joke earned a few chuckles, but neither he nor the others noticed the brief, almost imperceptible tension that flickered across Asta and Noelle's faces. Walking ahead, their backs turned to their guests, the rulers of Clover shared the same unspoken thought: This kingdom didn't always used to be like this.
For a moment, Asta clenched his fist, nails digging into his palms, and Noelle's fingers twitched at the side of her grimoire satchel. The kingdom had undergone tremendous change since the fall of Lucius Zogratis, and while it now thrived in ways that once seemed impossible, they both knew that peace had come at a cost. But this was not the time to linger on the past.
The visitors continued to marvel at Clover's wonders. The astral-like sky shimmered with hues of blue and violet, reflecting light from floating crystalline orbs that illuminated the city below. Ethereal rivers carved their way through the landscape, their waters shimmering with latent magic. Grand trees stretched toward the heavens, their silver leaves rustling in the breeze. Even floating mountains drifted lazily in the distance, their gravity-defying presence a testament to the kingdom's deep magical roots.
Finally, they reached the grand castle, its massive doors parting to reveal a resplendent throne room.
The hall was bathed in golden light, reflecting off walls adorned with intricate murals depicting Clover's long and storied history. At the far end of the chamber sat two thrones, positioned side by side. One bore the insignia of the Royal House of Silva, the other the crest of the Wizard King.
Asta and Noelle took their seats without ceremony, exuding a natural authority that left their guests momentarily speechless. Moments later, a grand chair was placed below the throne for Hisui, while Team Natsu stood at her sides, their posture shifting to a more formal stance.
Hisui, ever the diplomat, observed the arrangement with a thoughtful expression. Finally, she spoke. "Forgive my curiosity, but our records on Quartalis and Clover's history are incomplete, particularly from 450 years ago. From what we understand, the reigning Monarch and Wizard King of Clover held separate roles. The Monarch—Queen Noelle, in this case—should be the head of state and ruler of the kingdom, while the Wizard King serves as the military leader, much like the system in Hino within Tengoku Kai, where the emperor and shogun coexist. But here..." She gestured at Asta's throne. "Why does the Wizard King also hold a throne beside the Monarch?"
Asta and Noelle exchanged a glance before their lips curled into amused smiles. In unison, they lifted their left hands.
The gesture was small, but its meaning was immediately clear.
For a few moments, Team Natsu simply stared. Natsu and Gray blinked, utterly baffled. Wendy's eyes widened slightly, and Lucy's lips parted in realization.
There, on Noelle and Asta's ring fingers, rested matching diamond rings, their gemstones glowing faintly with an enchanted light.
Asta let out a deep, hearty laugh. "We're engaged! And as soon as I get to wife Noelle up, I'll officially become King Consort. Heck, I practically already am—right?"
Noelle's cheeks flushed a deep crimson, but she straightened her posture and lifted her chin, doing her best to maintain her regal composure. "O-of course," she replied, though the slight waver in her voice betrayed her flustered state.
Hisui blinked before quickly composing herself. "That is... wonderful news. My congratulations to you both."
The rest of Team Natsu quickly followed suit, offering their own congratulations—some more reservedly than others.
Lucy clasped her hands together, looking delighted. "That's so romantic! A true love story between rulers!"
Erza nodded approvingly. "A union that strengthens the kingdom. A wise decision."
Wendy blushing profusely, steam leaking comedically out of her ears, smiled softly. "Congratulations, Queen Noelle, Wizard King Asta."
Gray merely shrugged. "Huh. Well, congrats, I guess."
Natsu, still staring at Asta with an unreadable expression, finally huffed. "So, does that mean you two have some kinda crazy royal wedding planned?"
Noelle crossed her arms, flustered. "That's none of your concern!"
Asta laughed again, completely unbothered. "When the time comes, we'll make sure it's a wedding to remember!"
As the moment passed and the excitement settled, Hisui's expression turned contemplative. "This changes a great deal," she mused. "With you both leading as a united force, Clover Kingdom's strength has likely reached unprecedented heights. I can only imagine what this means for the political landscape of Quartalis... and beyond."
Asta's smile remained, but there was a knowing glint in his eye. "Oh, you can bet on that. Things are only just getting started."
Asta then waves his hands dismissively. "Anyway, let's stop wasting time. You guys came here for a reason, right?"
Hisui nods and opens her mouth to speak, but Noelle cuts straight to the point. "It's about the World Magic Games and Ishgaran—or rather, Fiorian—politics, correct?"
Hisui pauses, then relaxes with a small smile. "It seems the letter I sent in advance made its way here after all. I was worried it might drift off somewhere else, given I only had a rough idea of your kingdom's location."
Noelle shakes her head. "We never received any such letter."
Hisui stiffens slightly, glancing at the knights beside her. Lucy blinks, and Erza raises a brow in curiosity. "Then how did you know?"
Asta grins. "Funny you mentioned Hino earlier. We've had some… connections with them recently. Being good friends with the Shogun, they gave us a heads-up."
Hisui's eyes narrow, processing his words. The Shogun knew? That was surprising. She had taken great care to keep the early negotiations quiet, ensuring only her closest advisors knew of her plans. Her mind quickly runs through the implications.
"What kind of connection do you share?" she probes carefully.
Noelle and Asta simply smile, their expressions unreadable. "We trade," Noelle answers vaguely. "Clover and Hino have a few… mutual interests."
It's a clear deflection, and Hisui knows better than to push. Instead, Lucy, ever the curious one, tilts her head. "Come to think of it, Quartalis is actually quite similar to Hino in a lot of ways."
Hisui nods. "Yes. Just like in Quartalis, everyone in Hino has magic, and they use scrolls similar to your grimoires."
Asta leans back in his throne while Noelle crosses one leg over the other, nodding in agreement. "Clover has been researching why the laws of magic differ so much between Quartalis, Hino, and Earthland," Noelle admits. "But we haven't made much progress."
Erza lets out a thoughtful hum, then cracks a light joke. "Well, if you ever figure it out, let us know. I wouldn't mind a grimoire or scroll of my own—they seem like handy tools."
Noelle laughs softly and shakes her head. "They're not that great. As impressive as Quartalis and Hino may seem, we actually envy Earthland in many ways."
That catches everyone off guard. "Huh?" Natsu squints. "How the hell do ya envy us?"
Gray crosses his arms, frowning slightly. "Yeah, last I checked, most people back home don't have magic. Meanwhile, you guys have literal flying mountains."
Noelle lifts a hand, her mana flaring subtly. "Yes, everyone in Quartalis and Hino has magic—but they're limited to one attribute, with very rare exceptions. Meanwhile, in Earthland, anyone can learn any magic if they put in the effort."
Hisui nods in realization. "That's true… While magic has become more and more common in Earthland, still the vast majority of our people can only access it through magical items. But those who can use the art are theoretically capable of learning any type of magic."
Noelle nods and continues, "Plus, grimoires and scrolls are as much a cage as they are a boon. Without them, most people from Quartalis would be powerless."
Natsu, Erza, and Gray exchange quick glances, recalling Noelle's earlier attacks—without a grimoire in sight. She's clearly an exception. None of them say it, but the thought lingers.
Before they can push the topic further, Hisui claps her hands. "We're getting off track," she says briskly. "Let's discuss the World Magic Games."
Asta leans forward, finally looking serious. "Right. So, what exactly are you hoping to get out of this?"
Hisui folds her hands in her lap, straightening. "Fiore wishes to establish itself as Earthland's magical capital. We've led in magical research, development, and technology, but our continent remains fragmented politically. That's why I proposed the Games—to bring together the strongest mages from across the world and solidify our place at the center."
Noelle listens intently, nodding along. "And you need Quartalis to participate. Because without us, the Games won't truly represent the world—just Earthland."
Hisui smiles. "Exactly."
Asta chuckles. "That's a pretty smart move. But that also means you need us more than we need you."
The room falls silent for a beat. Hisui doesn't flinch, but Lucy and Wendy shift awkwardly. Erza and the rest, however, merely smirk.
"That's true," Hisui admits smoothly. "But I believe this is a mutually beneficial opportunity. Clover is an isolated kingdom, despite its strength. This would be your chance to establish international ties. More trade, more alliances, more influence."
Noelle raises a brow. "And more threats. If Clover reenters global affairs, we'll be exposing ourselves to Earthland's problems."
Hisui nods in understanding. "I won't deny that. But consider this: If you don't step forward, someone else will. The world is changing rapidly. Magic is evolving, nations are shifting. The last thing you want is for Quartalis to be left behind while Earthland moves forward."
Asta sighs, rubbing the back of his head. "You're good at this."
Hisui smiles. "It's my job."
Noelle exhales, folding her arms. "It's not an easy decision."
Hisui clasps her hands together lightly, waiting for a response. The room is silent for a few beats, as the Ishgarians waited inwardly anxious for a clear response. Then, Noelle exhales through her nose and nods.
"Very well. Clover shall join."
Hisui smirks slightly, satisfied, but she isn't one to accept things at face value. "I'm glad to hear that," she says, tilting her head, "but I am curious—why?"
Noelle doesn't hesitate. "Technologically speaking, Quartalis could benefit greatly from a partnership with Ishgar and the rest of Earthland." She folds her arms. "While we've made great strides in the past five hundred years with our magic tools, producing useful, mainstream magic items for our people is still a challenge. Referencing Ishgarian technology would make things far easier."
Hisui nods in understanding, while Team Natsu nearly lets out sighs of relief. Natsu raises a fist in excitement, but before he can cheer, Asta cuts through the moment.
"Why us?" His voice is calm, but firm. His gaze sharpens as he leans forward slightly. "Why seek only Clover? What about the other kingdoms?"
Hisui doesn't seem caught off guard. "To be frank, our records indicate that the other three kingdoms are below Clover in terms of military strength, magical prowess, and overall influence." She offers a light shrug. "Granted, some of our data might be outdated, but… I have a gut feeling it's true."
Asta chuckles wryly at that, shaking his head. "Yuno won't take too kindly to that." His expression is amused but not entirely dismissive, which puzzles Hisui.
Before she can press further, Noelle steps in smoothly. "Two other kingdoms," she corrects. "Diamond is no more."
That gets a reaction. Hisui's brow furrows slightly, and Team Natsu stiffens. "What?" Erza asks, her voice controlled but curious.
Noelle simply shrugs, her expression unreadable. "War and strife."
The room falls into silence again, but this time, there's an edge to it. Even the Fairy Tail wizards, who had fought in their fair share of wars, recognize that Noelle isn't just being vague for the sake of it.
Hisui studies her for a moment, as if weighing whether to probe further. But in the end, she lets it lie—for now.
—
Natsu pumps his fist excitedly. "Alright, now it's my turn to ask questions!"
Before anyone can stop him, he whirls around and jabs a finger at Noelle. "Who's that giant dragon?!"
Surprisingly, Wendy speaks up before Noelle can answer. "And why do you smell like him?"
Natsu nods rapidly, eyes narrowing. "Yeah! It's just like how Lucy smells like her spirits—or like Mercphobia now!"
The rest of Team Natsu exchanges puzzled glances, while Hisui watches with growing interest.
Noelle, however, simply shrugs. She raises her hand and snaps her fingers.
In an instant, the same massive dragon from before—Leviathan—materializes before them. But this time, instead of a towering behemoth, he appears in a much smaller, chibi-like form, resembling a tiny serpent coiled lazily around Noelle's shoulder.
Gray and Erza blink in surprise, then immediately try to hide the fact that they find him undeniably cute.
Noelle strokes the small dragon's head with a faint smile. "On our continent, mages can form contracts with spirits and magical beasts through their grimoires. This is Leviathan, the Sea God of the Seabed Temple—an underwater city."
The Fairy Tail mages briefly think of Ermina in Guiltina.
"As his contractor," Noelle continues, "his mana, aura, and scent naturally rub off on me."
Lucy's eyes sparkle. "That's so similar to celestial spirits!"
Before Noelle can respond, Leviathan lifts his tiny head and growls in a slow, deliberate tone:
"Me… real… Sea… God… That… one… fake…"
Silence.
Everyone sweats at the bluntness of his declaration.
Wendy fidgets nervously and corrects, "Mercphobia is the Water God."
Leviathan remains silent, his tiny tail flicking dismissively.
Then, before anyone can recover, Natsu suddenly shifts his attention to Asta, pointing accusingly. "And why do you smell like Mira—or an Etherious?!"
Gray immediately tenses, activating his Devil Slayer mark. His gaze sharpens as he eyes Asta's covered arm. "Yeah, what's up with that?"
Hisui and Erza instinctively stiffen at the increasingly hostile tone. Both are prepared to intervene before things escalate into a full-blown diplomatic incident. But before they can act, they notice something strange—Asta doesn't seem bothered at all.
Instead, he smiles, calm and unruffled.
Without hesitation, he removes his arm guard, revealing a black-and-red, devilish limb. The corrupted energy pulses faintly, a stark contrast to his otherwise unassuming presence.
"In Earthland, you deal with demons and demonic beasts," Asta explains, flexing his clawed fingers. "Here in Quartalis, we fight devils."
He turns his palm over, as if studying it. "I once faced a strong opponent, and had to sacrifice my arm to a Devil to stand a chance."
("Sorry again," Liebe mutters in his mind.)
Asta inwardly chuckles. We've been over this—it's fine.
The room was tense. While most of Team Natsu had accepted Asta's explanation, there was an undercurrent of unease. Happy clung tightly to Lucy's shoulder, his wings twitching, while Lucy herself looked slightly pale. Natsu, however, had an entirely different reaction. His lips curled into a sharp-toothed grin, eyes gleaming with excitement.
"I can't wait to fight you two," he declared, his fiery spirit practically crackling in the air.
Asta and Noelle exchanged confused glances before blinking at him.
"We won't be participating in the World Magic Games," Noelle stated plainly.
"At least, not as competitors," Asta added.
For the first time since arriving, Natsu looked completely dumbfounded. His mouth fell open as Lucy sighed heavily, rubbing her temples.
"Obviously," she muttered. "They're the Queen and the Wizard King. Heads of state, remember?"
Gray scoffed. "You really don't use that brain of yours, do you, flame-brain?"
But Natsu wasn't listening. He looked devastated, slumping as if someone had just told him Igneel had died all over again. Asta sweatdropped, forcing a smile as he tried to reassure him.
"Don't worry, there are plenty of strong fighters in Clover. We'll send our best," he promised.
That, however, didn't seem to satisfy Natsu. Instead, he suddenly straightened, his eyes burning with renewed determination as he turned his attention toward Noelle. He pointed a finger at her.
"Then I'll fight you," he declared. "Your magic's my worst enemy! And I gotta get you back for earlier!"
Before anyone could react, Natsu's grin widened, and in the next instant, he launched himself across the throne room, flames erupting from his fists as he swung directly at Noelle.
"NA—"
Hisui and the rest of Team Natsu barely had time to cry out in horror before—
THUD.
The entire room fell silent.
Natsu, who had been mid-air just a second ago, was now face-first into the polished floor, his body completely immobilized. Asta stood over him, his boot firmly pressing down on the dragon slayer's head, keeping him pinned.
The amiable smile Asta had worn moments ago was gone. In its place was a cold, unyielding frown. When he spoke, his voice was calm, yet it carried a weight that made the temperature in the room feel suffocating.
"I appreciate the enthusiasm," Asta said evenly. "And you guys seem like fun people." His expression darkened. "But attacking Clover's Queen—even as a joke—can only be seen as a declaration of war."
Suddenly, the air in the throne room shifted.
Grimoires flipped open with a whoosh, glowing with unspoken power. Dozens of figures appeared around them—some hooded, others with striking features that made them stand out as powerful warriors. Their eyes were locked onto the Ishgarian delegation with heavy displeasure, a dangerous glint in their gazes.
Lucy, Happy, Wendy, and Carla visibly trembled.
Gray and Erza instinctively fell into defensive stances, their muscles coiled, ready for a fight that they knew they couldn't win. Hisui gulped, her heart hammering in her chest.
Meanwhile, Natsu, despite his strength, found himself unable to move. No matter how much he struggled, he couldn't so much as twitch under Asta's boot. Worse yet—he couldn't feel his magic. It was as if his flames had been snuffed out entirely.
What… is this?
Realizing the severity of the situation, Hisui quickly stepped forward, curtsying deeply.
"My sincerest apologies," she said, her tone firm yet respectful. "Natsu is… well, he's just like this. Please, forgive our intrusion."
Erza and Lucy immediately followed suit, bowing as well.
No one spoke for a long, agonizing moment.
Then, finally, Asta turned his gaze to Noelle.
The Queen stood with her arms crossed, her expression unreadable. She exhaled sharply through her nose before flicking her hand dismissively.
"It's time for you all to leave," she said curtly. "Clover will arrive in Fiore in two months for the Games."
There was a pause before she continued, her tone laced with cool finality.
"Typically, when guests travel from afar, we extend our hospitality and invite them to stay for at least a week." She tilted her chin up slightly. "But no such invitation will be given to you."
Hisui's stomach twisted, but she knew better than to protest. In truth, she was relieved. Things could have gone much, much worse.
Instead, she bowed deeply once again. "Thank you for your generosity," she said sincerely.
The rest of Team Natsu followed suit—save for Natsu, who was still stuck on the floor.
Erza, with an eerily pleasant smile, grabbed him by the neck and hauled him up, choking him slightly as she hoisted him over her shoulder like a sack of potatoes.
"Idiot," she muttered darkly.
With that, the Ishgarian delegation swiftly exited the palace, boarding their ship within minutes.
Asta and Noelle stood at the highest balcony, watching as the vessel pulled away from the dock. Neither spoke, their hands unconsciously tightening around each other's.
Noelle exhaled softly. "That was… eventful."
Asta snorted. "Yeah."
They continued watching in silence as the ship disappeared over the horizon.
One thing was certain—when they arrived in Fiore for the Games, things were going to be very interesting.