The two Scarlet Women Fairy Tail Male reader X Erza Scarlet X Irene Belserion

Chapter 41!

Y/n and Irene made their way through the grand halls of the imperial palace, their boots echoing off the polished marble floors. It had been a grueling month in the northern part of Alvarez, but they had accomplished their mission. Now, it was time to report back to the Emperor himself. Irene pushed the door open with a creaking sound. They entered Zeref's private chamber, the air was thick with an almost palpable tension. Zeref stood by the large window, his silhouette framed by the fading light of the afternoon sun. He turned to face them, his expression unreadable and cold.

"Irene, Y/n," Zeref greeted, his voice even and calm. "You've been away for a month. What news do you bring from the north?"

Y/n stepped forward, holding out the map they had confiscated from the dark guild's fortress, placing it on the table in front. "We've managed to bring several dark guilds under the banner of Alvarez. Their leaders have sworn fealty, and the region is stabilizing under our control."

Zeref took the map, examining it closely. "Good work. However, I've noticed your progress has been slower than anticipated, Irene. Your loss of dragon slayer power has indeed impacted your efficiency. You should consider regaining it as soon as possible."

Irene's expression hardened at Zeref's words. She straightened, her voice cold and resolute. "I won't do it, Zeref. For my own reasons." She glanced over at Y/n, a silent exchange passing between them. Her decision was firm, and it was clear she would not be swayed. Zeref's face showed no change, but he knew that Irene's choice had to do with her student.

Before Zeref could respond, the door to the chamber opened, and a figure clad in elegant robes stepped inside. Y/n's eyes widened slightly as he recognized the man from descriptions and whispers among the palace staff and Irene's tales. This was August, the Wizard King, renowned as the most powerful mage in the empire.

"August," Zeref acknowledged with a nod. "It's been a while."

Irene's demeanor shifted subtly, a hint of respect evident in her posture. "Master August," she said, her tone softer and more deferential. It was clear she regarded him with the respect of a long-time teacher. Even if Irene existed for longer than him.

August smiled faintly, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Irene, it's good to see you again. And you must be Y/n, the Death Dragon. I've heard much about you."

Y/n inclined his head respectfully. "It's an honor to meet you, Master August."

August paused in the midst of their discussion, his keen eyes locking onto Irene. A puzzled expression crossed his face as he scrutinized her closely. "Irene," he said slowly, "you appear much younger than the last time I saw you, which was about five years ago. How did you manage this?"

Irene looked slightly embarrassed, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush. She glanced at Y/n before answering. "I used a permanent enchantment to turn my age back, making me as old as Y/n."

August's eyebrows shot up in surprise, and then a hearty laugh escaped his lips. "Remarkable! Only you, Irene, could achieve such a feat." He then turned his attention to Y/n, his gaze appraising. "Y/n, would you accompany me to the training grounds?"

Y/n glanced at Irene, who looked momentarily concerned. "Why?" she asked, her tone protective. "I wish to test his strength against God Serena," August replied, his expression serious but curious.

Irene's hand clenched into a fist, her knuckles turning white. She wanted to object, but after a moment of internal conflict, she nodded. "It could be a valuable experience for you, Y/n," she said, her voice steady despite her worry. She met Y/n's eyes, her gaze firm and supportive. "Give it your best."