"Because you have seen it too, I am not complete. So even though I led them to cast the Fairy Sphere, this magic still has a significant flaw: it requires seven years to lift."
Mavis's words were nothing to Newton; as long as he was alive, that was good enough. What did seven years matter?
"It's fine, I can wait. I have long been prepared to search for a lifetime; seven years is just a small matter."
But Mavis shook her head.
"It's not that simple. Have you considered why Acnologia came here? What if Acnologia comes again in the future? So this seven years is not just waiting as you think; I need to train you!"
"Don't worry, Mavis, I've already made my plans."
Mavis's thoughts aligned with Newton's, but Newton wasn't thinking of using magic; he was thinking of machinery. Based on Acnologia's displayed combat power, even if all the current Dragon Slayer Mages teamed up, they probably wouldn't stand a chance against Acnologia.
"First, what you need to learn are the three great super magics of our Fairy Tail..."
And so it began; Newton embarked on his path of seclusion. He researched his armor and learned magic from Mavis. When he grew bored, he would amuse Mavis or listen to the President recount stories from the past. Time flew by quickly, and soon a year had passed.
"Newton, there's news from the Guild."
"The Guild?"
Newton poked his head out from a pile of machinery and looked at Ginger. Ginger had changed significantly from her previous armored appearance. Over the past year, not only had she learned mechanics, but Jabir had also provided Newton with countless scientific breakthroughs along with knowledge of Human Transmutation. In biology, Newton had made substantial progress as well—biomimetic skin and electronic eyes that resembled those of a real person. Ginger now looked no different from an ordinary person; she appeared to be a professional housekeeper wearing gold-rimmed glasses.
Even Mavis had her own body now, but due to the mismatch between her soul and body, this form could only allow her to do some things like an ordinary person. As for magic, that was out of the question, and her activity time was limited.
"Yes, it seems the kingdom wants to discuss a big business deal with you."
Mavis ran in.
"Newton, let's go diving!"
Although this artificial body was not yet perfect, Mavis was having a great time. Whenever she had a moment, she would drag Newton or Ginger out to have fun.
"Sorry, Mavis, just wait a moment. It seems like something's come up."
Newton handed Mavis an ice cream and then looked at Ginger.
"Specifically, the kingdom's confidentiality measures are quite effective. We’ve only managed to gather a tiny bit of information. It seems the kingdom is preparing some kind of equipment, but no one knows exactly what it's for. Also, Your Majesty has specially invited you to the palace; it seems there’s something they want to discuss with you."
Newton scratched his head.
"Alright, Mavis, I'm sorry, I might..."
"I'll go with you!"
Mavis jumped up and came to Newton's side.
"Anyway, only those with the Dark Guild Emblem can see me. When the time comes, I can just detach from this body. It’s perfect; I can also go take a look."
Newton thought for a moment and agreed to Mavis's request. She was not just a cute kid; the Fairy Strategist was no joke—she was definitely a mastermind.
"Alright then."
Newton nodded, and so the two of them, clad in armor, returned to the town. Naturally, Newton did not head straight to the palace; compared to matters at the palace, he was more accustomed to first returning to Fairy Tail.
“Makao, I’m back.”
Although Newton's base was now at sea, he still returned during holidays and festivals. After all, he was still the President. While he could command from a distance, there were some matters that required his personal attention.
“Huh? What’s the occasion today? Why are you back?”
Makao's tone was filled with resentment. Indeed, while Newton would step in for important affairs, all the trivial matters fell squarely on Makao's shoulders. How could Makao not feel resentful? However, upon seeing Mavis, his expression changed entirely.
“Mavis, President, we have some new candies here. Want some?”
Well, Newton naturally didn’t come back alone; he had brought Mavis with him. As the First President and quite adorable, Mavis quickly established her position within the Guild. Even Newton and Makao might find their standing slightly lower than hers at this point.
“I want some!”
Mavis eagerly emerged from the armor.
“Alright then. The king shouldn’t be in a hurry. I’ll visit Lady Poluchika and then check on the Guild. We can head to the palace later tonight.”
Newton placed Mavis in the Guild for everyone to take care of her and made his way to Poluchika’s house.
“Knock knock knock.”
“Who is it?”
Poluchika opened the door.
"It's you! What's wrong? What happened this time?"
"Can't I come to see you if nothing's wrong?"
Newton placed the apples he had picked at Poluchika's doorstep.
"Hmph, weren't you out at sea? What made you think of coming back today?"
Newton chuckled awkwardly.
"Look at you, as if I never come back."
He stepped inside and chatted with Poluchika for a while. Newton held a great deal of respect for this advisor and potion master of Fairy Tail. After their conversation, he headed to the Guild.
"Bss."
Jin was still dressed the same, holding some documents in his hand.
"This is the list of materials requested by the kingdom. I've already noted everything down; please take a look."
Newton took the list.
"Is there any way to find out what exactly the kingdom is planning to do?"
"Sorry, most of the materials above are excellent Magic Resistance Metal Ore. There are many items made from these materials, and it's not surprising that the kingdom uses them to manufacture armor. We can only speculate that the kingdom must have acquired some technology, but the specifics remain unclear."
"Then we'll investigate slowly."
Newton felt that time was the one thing he had in abundance right now. Rather than having Jiang directly provide him with information, he found himself enjoying the process of slowly sifting through the data.
"As long as there is construction, there will be a need for labor. We can infiltrate their workforce, and we can also utilize the Dark Guild. As long as they recruit from outside, we can carry out our investigation."
"Understood."
Jin nodded.
"I'll go prepare these goods. Since you've been summoned as well, let's head over together."
"Oh? Are you treating me like your bodyguard now…"
Newton chuckled as he looked at Jin.
"This is the most efficient way."
Jin remained unfazed, leaving Newton with no choice but to shrug his shoulders in resignation.
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