Good Intentions

First Misgivings

"Have you noticed anything strange about Natsu-san's scent?". asked Wendy.

"I don't really spend a lot of time sniffing him, Wendy.", Gajeel replied.

"Can you please do so today? I want to know what you think. Also, can you please check out Gray-san as well?", Wendy gave him her best pleading look.

"Fullbuster? Why?", Gajeel was getting more curious by the second.

"I don't want to say anymore, I just want you to tell me what you smell.", Wendy would not say any more on the subject. Gajeel agreed to get back to her once he had a chance to do what she asked. She got up from the table and left him to his drinking.

The Iron Dragon Slayer did not have to wait long befor Natsu arrived at the guild. He looked tired. He grunted a greeting to the Iron Dragon Slayer and headed for the bar. While the Salamander ordered his food, Gajeel downed his drink and headed to the bar to get another.

"Hey Salamander, where've you been?", Gajeel ordered his drink and tried to sniff the Salamander without him noticing.

"Training with Gray. You should join us sometime. It gets pretty competitive, you might enjoy it. No magic though.", Natsu offered. Ever since the Iron Dragon Slayer had told him about his missions he liked him a bit better.

"Yeah, maybe.", Gajeel grabbed his drink and went back to his table. He had just gotten a whole lot of information. Wendy might be on to something.

Gray arrived an hour later, also looking tired. He joined Natsu at his table . They were talking quietly so Gajeel could not hear what they were saying. He would have to figure out a way to get nearer to the ice mage without alerting the Salamander. Thankfully, the opportunity presented itself when Gray went to use the rest room. Gajeel followed him timing it so that he entered the restroom as the ice mage left it. Gajeel waited a few minutes, washed his hands and returned to his table. His task now done he looked around for Wendy. This was turning out to be an interesting day, he was a bit annoyed that he had made his promise but he would keep it. He would have loved to taunt the Salamander with what he now knew.

Lucy entered the guild next. She half walked, half dragged herself to the table Natsu and Gray were sharing. They both looked up at her with pained expressions. Lucy glared at them but sat down.

"I take it things have not improved. What did Erza do to you today?", Natsu asked Lucy sympathetically.

"I'm not sure if I'm talking to you right now.", Lucy growled at him.

"Hey, I'm not the one who suggested you should train with Erza.", Natsu reminded her.

Gray looked at her, annoyed. "I've already said I was sorry, let it go."

Lucy grumbled , "Easy for you to say, you don't have to do her crazy training."