So this is the commissioner's location? I said, crossing my arms as I pondered. This was only the second time I had visited an orphanage. I hadn't expected this.
The orphanage was just one large manor with several beds lined up next to each other. The real world is so different. I muttered. In movies, orphanages always gave each child their own dorm. Yet, there were still some facilities that felt somewhat realistic.
Somehow, in movies, the fridges in orphanages seemed to have A5 Wagyu beef for breakfast—unbelievable. On the other hand, at least they always had a complete playground. My eyes glanced around, taking it all in.
There were several kids—a mixed group of boys and girls, around five to seven years old—running around. That was perfectly normal for children their age. But when I looked around a bit more, I noticed a girl sitting on a bench, reading a book.
She had emerald-green bob-cut hair and matching emerald eyes with a sadistic stare. She wore a dark, long-sleeved dress with a white collar, neatly buttoned up, giving her a refined yet somewhat eerie presence. Her black stockings and polished shoes added to her composed and almost doll-like appearance.
I never thought I'd consider someone beautiful, but she was certainly admirable, especially with that stoic expression.
Not wanting to be mistaken for someone interested in her, I quickly diverted my attention. However, this didn't escape Cana's eyes—she had been observing me from the beginning.
What's up? I asked her.
Are you interested in that girl? Cana questioned, giving me a knowing stare.
Interested? Hardly. I scoffed. You could say I'm barely curious.
Really? She smirked. Because you looked like some pervert ogling a beautiful lady. Too bad for you—she'd never be interested in perverts like you.
Her words left me dumbfounded. Huh? I told you, I'm not interested! And why are you calling me a pervert? Also, why are you speaking on her behalf? I shot back. Still, if I were being honest, I did feel a little envious. I wished I had been that composed when I was a kid. I said inwardly.
She didn't answer me, so I set my thoughts aside and headed toward the office to ask for the commission details. The request only mentioned log gathering, and I had assumed it was about firewood. But judging by the state of this orphanage, that didn't seem to be the case. Then again, maybe I was just overthinking things and being unnecessarily suspicious.
Reaching the door, I knocked first—common courtesy, even in my previous life.
Knock—knock...
Come in. A voice from inside called.
When I opened the door, I noticed an old man, likely around seventy years old. Judging by his attire, he was probably an archbishop. He wore a black cassock with gold embroidery along the cuffs and hem, and a silver cross hung from a chain around his neck.
His slicked-back gray hair was neatly combed, though thinning with age. Light green eyes peered at us with a mix of warmth and wisdom, his face deeply lined with wrinkles. A typical appearance for someone managing an orphanage.
He greeted us with a warm smile as we introduced ourselves.
Hello, mister. My name is Kyoka Suigetsu, and this lady here is Cana Alberona. I said sarcastically. We're wizards from Fairy Tail, here for the commission details.
Wizards, eh? You're quite young. The old man remarked, setting down the file of papers he had been reading.
Well, everyone needs to work to survive. I replied.
He studied me for a moment before nodding. Hmmm... You seem quite mature for your age. He said so but chose not to pursue the matter further.
My name is Padre Pyo. But before we discuss the details, let's sit down first. He gestured toward the chairs. Would you like some tea or a chocolate drink? He asked, offering us his hospitality.
Tea? If possible, I'd prefer black coffee—no milk. And a hot chocolate for my lady over here. I said, playfully acting like a butler.
Padre Pyo chuckled. Heh, I see. Hot chocolate and coffee, was it? He seemed amused by my behavior.
Cana looked like she wanted to say something, but she kept her mouth shut. Though her lips curved into a smile, her eyes certainly didn't—they pierced through me like daggers, as if silently saying, Just wait until we're done here. I'll make you pay for this later. A typical reaction, like an Asian parent preparing a well-earned scolding.
While Cana continued giving me a meaningful look, Padre Pyo left his office. He didn't take long to return, carrying our drinks before settling back down to business.
So, about the quest. He began, sipping his tea. It's about log gathering. You need to collect a large number of logs—they'll be used as building materials for a house.
Building a house? I murmured, deep in thought. Judging by the orphanage's structure, everything here was made of concrete. There didn't seem to be any particular need for wooden logs. Which meant…I reached a conclusion. You're building a treehouse?
He closed his eyes and smiled slightly. Not quite.
I see… so that's how it is. I said, nodding in approval.
Cana, on the other hand, raised an eyebrow, clearly not understanding a word of our conversation.
Seeing her reaction, I let out a tired sigh before explaining. We're gathering wood for the children. Basically, they're going to build their own treehouse—it's a productive and fun activity for them.
Oh? Her eyes widened. Can I join? She asked, silencing the entire room.
If she weren't a grown woman, I would have immediately retorted, What are you, a kid? But what could I do? At heart, she really was just a child.
Padre Pio simply laughed. Hahaha… Sure, why not? It might be interesting to see you get along with kids younger than you.
Hearing his approval, her eyes sparkled with excitement—a typical kid behavior. I shook my head inwardly at the sight.
However, for some reason, she suddenly shot me a glare. It almost felt like she had read my mind.
I simply looked away and responded to the elder. Well, since it's still early, we should be back midway before lunch. We'll be heading out now. I said politely.
Be careful. He replied. With those words, Cana and I set off toward the forest.
Once we were far enough, I suddenly felt a sharp pinch on my back.
What's up? Do you need to use the restroom or something? I asked, glancing at her.
Instead of answering, she just glared at me. You… She started to say something, but I cut her off as I sensed a presence nearby.
Shhh… Something's coming. I warned, placing my hand on my sword hilt, ready to draw at any moment.
Cana didn't waste time either. She swiftly pulled a single card from her deck and took a defensive stance.
Within seconds, a figure emerged from behind the bushes.
A deer? I muttered. It looked harmless, yet something about it felt… off. My instincts screamed at me, though I couldn't explain why. Without hesitation, I kicked off the ground, dashing forward—and in one swift motion, I beheaded it.
Slash—thud!
The deer's body collapsed lifelessly onto the ground.
Why did you kill it? Isn't it just a harmless animal? Cana asked, a hint of dissatisfaction in her voice.
Just a hunch. I replied. When dealing with things like this, it's important to trust your instincts.
I wasn't entirely sure myself, but something about this deer felt off. Normally, animals like this would avoid humans, yet this one intentionally approached us. More than that—it was waiting for us.
Cana remained silent. We were both still new to quests, but my strength had been acknowledged by Gildarts. She couldn't easily question my judgment.
Then, we heard someone laugh.
Fufufu… How amusing. I didn't expect a kid like you to be this sharp. A voice said.
The source of the voice came from behind a tree not far from us. I turned my gaze toward it.
A figure in a white cloak stood there, about six feet tall. The only visible detail was his tanned skin—the rest remained concealed beneath his cloak.
In situations like this, there was no need for complicated thinking. The enemy had already underestimated us, setting up a simple trap. He likely thought we were just a couple of inexperienced kids—easy to deal with. I wasn't the type to let such an opportunity slip by.
With all my might, I dashed toward him, fully prepared to behead him. My senses were sharp—so sharp that even someone as powerful as Gildarts couldn't escape my detection. Yet this man… He had been in this forest the entire time, and I hadn't sensed even the slightest trace of magic or presence.
One thing was certain: he was skilled in assassination. And since he had revealed himself, he must have been confident in his abilities. That's why I seized the opportunity when he let his guard down. If I had to fight someone on his level, things would become extremely difficult. I had no problem fighting alone—but with Cana here, I also had to protect her. That was why I made the split-second decision to kill him instantly.
The distance between us shrank to just one meter. In that moment, I had already drawn my sword, ready to strike. But just as my blade was about to land, he leaned back in an instant. The sword cut through nothing but air. It didn't even graze him. He had dodged with a paper-thin difference!
Huh? Seeing this, I frowned. Without hesitation, I sheathed my sword and retreated to a safe distance.
Fufufu… You're quite energetic. But I'm not interested in fighting you—yet. He said, bending his arched body forward.
Of course, I wasn't a fool. I had lost my chance to behead him, and I was certain he had already studied my swordplay. My first plan had failed. Time for Plan B.
I activated Kyoka Suigetsu—
But nothing happened. The activation failed? I questioned myself. If Kyoka Suigetsu didn't work, there were only two possibilities.
First, he never even glanced at my sword and dodged purely on instinct—that would mean his reflexes were beyond human. That was the most likely scenario. The second possibility was far more shocking—this person is blind.
I narrowed my eyes. Who are you?
At this moment, I couldn't do anything. I couldn't sense his magic power, meaning I had no way of estimating his strength. But judging by the way he toyed with me, he was probably on Gildarts' level.
The man chuckled. My name? It doesn't matter. All you need to know is that you owe me a big one.
I've never met you in my life. How can you say that? I asked mockingly.
Fufufu… You took care of my guild members in Red Blossom Village. Don't think I'd just let that slide. He replied.
I see… So that's what this is about. In that case, what makes you think I'll let you walk away, knowing you're after my head? I said, readying myself for another attack.
However—he vanished in an instant. Before I could react, he reappeared behind Cana, pressing a sharp dagger against her neck.
See…? His voice was calm, almost amused. I could have taken care of you both in the blink of an eye. But I have something important to deal with at the moment.
He leaned in slightly. Once I'm done… you're next. And just like that—he disappeared again.
Cana fell to her knees, trembling violently. I could tell she was experiencing an overwhelming amount of fear—a panic attack.
I wasn't sure how to comfort someone in this situation, so I simply sat down beside her and waited for her to calm down. I didn't say a word.
Scumbag? Inhuman? Insensitive? People could call me whatever they wanted. But what could I do? Comforting someone… was something I had never learned in life. But maybe—just maybe—I could at least try to be a little more... human.
Nope. Never. I will never, ever do that! Such a shameful thing!!!
Over time, Cana gradually calmed down, her trembling subsiding. I didn't ask if she was okay—because she wasn't. What was the point of asking something so obvious?
Since we were close to our destination, I decided to focus on the quest first. I'm going to cut some trees. I said, turning to leave. But before I could take a step, she suddenly rushed over and grabbed my arm. I frowned. What's wrong?
Seeing my indifferent behavior, Cana seemed like she wanted to say something. Her mouth opened slightly, but in the end, she chose to remain silent.
Nothing... She said, forcibly swallowing her words. If she didn't want to talk, I wouldn't force her. Without another word, I continued on my way, and she followed after me.
Is she going to treat me differently from now on? I wondered. Well, whatever. I wasn't interested in getting close to anyone. We were simply colleagues who happened to team up once—nothing more, nothing less. Besides, I didn't really need her to help carry or cut the trees. I could handle it myself.
The silence stretched between us for a while—until Cana finally spoke. Suigetsu... You're truly amazing... She said.
Huh? You've said that before. I replied. I told you, giving me compliments won't help you get information about your father.
But Cana shook her head. No… it's not about that. I just can't believe you were able to withstand that immense pressure and act like nothing happened. While I… Her voice trailed off, her expression darkening.
Pressure? I frowned. What are you talking about? There was nothing at all. If you felt heavy, it's probably just the difference in magic power. That just means… you're too weak! I didn't bother sugarcoating my words. I wasn't the type to comfort people with empty reassurances.
Cana smiled bitterly. ...You're right… I'm too weak.
Yeah. Gildarts wouldn't feel any pressure, no matter who his opponent was. And it's not just him—S-Class mages are the same. I said with a shrug. I knew it sounded like bragging, maybe even unrealistic, but it had to be said.
So, are you feeling down because of the huge difference in power? Just because he's your father, you think you're entitled to anything? I asked, my voice sharp. Did you really believe that being Gildarts' daughter meant something?
She remained silent, her head lowered.
I smirked. I'll tell you what—when we get back, I'll tell Gildarts you're his daughter.
She stiffened instantly.
I will do it. And there's nothing you can do about it. I added, watching her shiver.
Why?
Because it's something you can't stop! I said coldly. You're too weak to do anything about it!
But—
I let out a small chuckle before continuing. Fear not, it's not all bad for you. Once he figures it out, whenever you're in trouble, all you have to do is scream, 'Daddy, I need help!' I mocked, imitating her voice.
And guess what? Gildarts will come rushing in less than a second to save your weak ass! That's the power you need, right? The power you desire? Or should I say… the privilege that comes with being the strongest mage's daughter?
Cana clenched her fists, her body trembling with frustration. Tears welled up in her eyes as she bit her lower lip.
...You don't have to be so mean. She stuttered, her voice breaking.
I tilted my head. Should I hold myself back? I asked, but I didn't wait for an answer. Nope. Why should I? Just because you're a kid? Does that mean you're not supposed to feel pain?
Fucking stupid!!! I screamed, my voice echoing through the forest.
Cana flinched, instinctively stepping back. Fear flickered in her eyes as she stared at me, startled by my sudden outburst.
You're a wizard! I roared. Trouble is bound to come, whether the mission is simple or complex! You're risking your life every single time, and what are you doing right now? Crying your ass off about being weak instead of working to become stronger?!
My fists clenched, my breathing ragged. Can't you do something better with your life?! Why can't you?!
Why?
Why?
Why?!
I clutched my head, my thoughts spiraling.
Why are you acting like this? Is it because you thought you were at the pinnacle of the world? My voice rose again, burning with frustration.
DON'T MAKE ME LAUGH!
I already told you! You're too weak! You're not the strongest, so why are you complaining like you've been robbed of something?! My voice rang through the air, sharp and unyielding. Should I hold back because you're a girl? Because you're a kid and 'don't know any better'?
That's not a valid excuse!
In fact, I'm telling you this now because you're just a kid! You don't know better! And I don't want you to suffer—
I stopped. My breath caught in my throat as the words almost spilled out. Shit.
I had nearly said too much.
Cana, sensing the shift in my tone, gave me a long, searching look. The atmosphere had changed—something in the air was heavy, unspoken.
Her voice came out quiet, hesitant. Suffer... the same fate as you?
Oh crap... I muttered inwardly. Should I apologize? No... That's something I can't do—rather, something I won't do. Then what? Should I play the concerned big brother to smooth things over?
Maybe gaslight her into thinking this was all for her sake when, in reality, I just lost my cool? Yeah. I nodded to myself. It was embarrassing, but if it meant protecting my secrets, I'd do it.
I took a deep breath, lowering my voice to something calm—measured. Like a father giving advice to his daughter.
Listen, Cana.
She looked up at me, still wary.
You're just a kid—you don't know anything about the world yet. But once you step outside, you'll realize something: the world doesn't show mercy. It's survival of the fittest. If you don't understand how things work, you're going to suffer. I paused, watching her expression.
That's why I'm telling you this now—while you're still young. Because no one ever told me. I had to learn the hard way. I exhaled sharply. People assumed I knew everything, just because I came from a so-called 'genius lineage.' But expectations mean nothing. The world itself isn't necessarily cruel... But the people in it? Some are worse than you can imagine.
I gently patted her shoulder. She flinched.
Just like that enemy before—if he had wanted to kill us, he could have done it easily. But he didn't.
Why?
Because we were so easy to kill, it wasn't even worth the effort. I leaned in slightly, my voice low but firm. Doesn't that make you feel hopeless? Powerless?
I didn't wait for an answer.
Then instead of complaining, you'd better wipe your tears, pick yourself up, and start working. I made it sound as if everything was her fault.
Step one: break her down. Now, onto step two.
I pressed a finger against her forehead, applying just enough pressure to make my point. You've been drinking, haven't you? I said flatly. Instead of actually working your way up to Gildarts, you waste your time numbing yourself.
She flinched but said nothing.
You want recognition, you want qualifications—yet you don't do a damn thing about it. My voice was sharp. If you want to achieve something, you have to work for it. Don't expect things to just fall into your lap because you want them.
I exhaled, my tone lowering—not out of pity, but something closer to bitter understanding. And just because Gildarts is the strongest doesn't mean he's immortal.
She stiffened.
Anything can happen during a mission. One day, he might lose his life.
Silence.
I looked away, my voice quieter now. I'm not rushing you. But if you keep hesitating… it might be too late.
Leaving those heavy words behind, I turned away and approached a tree, ready to start working. I didn't dare look at her—I might get overwhelmed by the shame of what I had just said. The weight of my own words lingered in the air, pressing down on both of us.
Cana had stopped crying. But even without looking, I could feel her gaze on me. When I finally glanced her way, I saw it—her usual playful spark was gone, replaced by something more serious. Yet, beneath that determination, there was something else. A hint of worry. For me.
-[Beneath the Hammer of Fate]