With Great Power Comes Great Responsibilty

Chapter 13

So Red Dragon and Blue Tiger continued to defend the city of Magnolia, stopping any crime they saw—or heard about. Life as secret superheroes, however, wasn't without its complications. Balancing college classes, part-time jobs, and secret night patrols wasn't easy. Homework sometimes got delayed, class attendance became erratic, and trying to keep their double lives a secret added extra stress.

Still, there were a few perks. For one, Gray had started using his photography skills to capture shots of their costumed alter egos. Since no one else could get close enough to the mysterious vigilantes, his photos sold well—especially to The Magnolia Times.

One afternoon, Gray stood in the cluttered office of Gajeel Redfox, the paper's gruff editor-in-chief, holding a set of freshly printed photos.

"So, what do you think, Mr. Redfox?" Gray asked, placing the shots on the desk.

Gajeel squinted down at the high-quality images: Red Dragon mid-leap over a rooftop; Blue Tiger pinning a mugger against a brick wall. His expression shifted from skeptical to surprised.

"These are... impressive," Gajeel admitted. "How the hell did you manage to get this close? None of my staff photographers have even gotten a blur."

Gray gave a casual shrug. "Let's just say I have my ways."

Gajeel looked up at him. "You got guts, kid. But you're still young. I don't usually hire high schoolers—or whatever you are."

"I'm in college," Gray said quickly. "First year. And yeah, I know I'm young, but I work hard. I can get more pictures like these—better ones even. I really need this job, Mr. Redfox."

The editor leaned back in his chair, arms crossed. "Why don't you have your dad find you some work? Someone's gotta be able to help you out."

Gray hesitated, then said quietly, "My dad...Is not alive."

Gajeel paused, his expression shifting slightly. "Oh, I'm sorry...And your mom?"

"She's gone too. They died when I was a kid, It's just me and my aunt now."

For a moment, Gajeel didn't say anything. Then he gave a small nod—almost like he understood more than he let on.

"...Alright," he said at last. "You've got the job."

Gray blinked. "Wait, seriously?"

Gajeel smirked. "Don't make me regret it, kid. Bring me more shots like these, and maybe you'll actually earn that desk."

Gray grinned from ear to ear. "Thank you, sir! I won't let you down."

"You better not—for your sake! I mean it, Fullbuster! One screw-up and you're outta here! Got that?!"

"Yes, sir!" Gray replied, standing at attention.

With the job secured, Gray left the office and headed home, excited to share the good news. Natsu wasn't home yet, but Ur was—currently enjoying tea with a guest. A young woman sat with her at the table, glasses perched on her nose, her expression bright and friendly.

"Gray, I'd like you to meet a dear friend of mine," Ur said, motioning to her guest. "This is Levy. She's the librarian at the college where I teach."

Gray nodded politely. "Nice to meet you."

"And you," Levy smiled. "Ur has told me so much about you."

"Would you mind refilling the sugar jar for us, dear?" Ur asked him.

"Sure." Gray picked up the empty jar and walked toward the kitchen.

As soon as he was out of earshot, Ur leaned in toward Levy. "So, what do you think?"