A/N: Originally, the first two chapters were one chapter of like 23k Words. Buuuut... I'm actually trying to put this all together, so now it's two chapters of about 10k.
Part of me has forgone most of the backstory, merely presenting them as flashbacks. I apologize for the eventual and inevitable confusion, but I'm fighting myself in getting my story organized.
As such, I'll do my best to keep everything coherent, but I sadly cannot promise it.
Again, any constructive criticism on my writing style, plus tips on storyboard organization are most welcome.
One more thing, I've been made aware that disclaimers are both suggested and recommended. However true this may or may not be, I am sad to say I'm not the owner of Fairy Tail. My wallet cries at that statement. Sad panda.
"And now, the final match of todays main events! Fiary Tail A's Wendy Marvel and Lamia Scale's Shelia Brendi!"
'Wendy, you're alive. I am glad' Duranbolt observes, smiling at his former partner's return.
"Sherria, go out there and give it your all" Jura instructs his young guild and excitable guildmate. "Do not underestimate her."
"Yes sir!" she acknowledges cheerfully, bowing to her mentor.
"You've got this Wendy" tells his apprentice, smiling at her encouragingly. "Remember, she's a God Slayer, so her self-healing will play a major role in her survival."
"I know I know, jeez."
"Behave…"
"I'll show you behave" she mutters back, turning down the hall that leads to the arena.
"Hey…" she hears behind her, turning towards the approaching pinkette, out of earshot of everyone else. He leans in near her ear and whispers in a suddenly husky voice "if you win, I'll give you a special treat tonight" he quietly provides, lightly kissing just beneath her earlobe.
"I'll hold you to that" she whispers out, leaning in to nuzzle her cheek against the taller man's neck but being pushed gently backwards before she can. "You're such a tease" she grumbles, eliciting a chuckle. "All the more reason for you to win" he smirks, raising his eyebrows seductively, receiving another growl in response. "You're gonna pay for that, big boy" she mutters before continuing down to the field.
Smiling to himself, he returns to the gathered mages, ignoring the knowing smirk from his black haired teammate. "You just had to get her riled up, didn't you?" he asks, baring his teeth in amusement.
"No idea what you're talking about" came the amused reply as they watch their partner enter the arena.
"Competitors! To the center of the Arena! Annnnd… BEGIN!"
Wendy suddenly darts forward, punching Sherria in the gut. "Sky Dragon: Iron Fist!" the pinkette comically flies backwards, flopping against the ground before the bluenette is on her again, "Sky Dragon: Level Strike" came the call before a foot matches the fist, launching the downed girl again. "Oh come on, I thought this was a fight?" she whines at her downed opponent.
"It is!" came the cheerful response, the girl getting up. "I was simply surprised at your speed! That was incredible!"
"Ummm...thanks?" came the forced reply, unsure why her opponent is complimenting her.
"My turn! Sky God: Boreas!" she cries, sending a tornado at her opponent, who casually dodges out of the way. "Sky God: Arrow Storm!" A flurry of darkened air fires in quick succession to the dancing Dragon Slayer.
Fairy Tail Bench
"Sky God!" crying from the Fairy Tail bench, the two slayers covering their ears. "ARRGGHH" their responses were to the suddenly screaming bench. "Did y'all not hear me tell Wendy she was a God Slayer? Jeez…"
"Wait, you knew!?"
"I just said that, popsicle, clean your ears out."
"How did you know she was a God Slayer, m'boy?"
"Because of the darkened texture of her magic. If you notice, the wind she controls is blackened, somewhat. Just like that Lightning user from Sabertooth. His magic was yellow with a black tinge to it. That's what marks them as God Slayers."
"How do you know this?" Erza finally asks.
"Remember Wendy telling you about my multiple magics? The guy Zancrow I fought on Tenrou Island when we were attacked. He was a Fire God Slayer. And much like me, he liked to talk during the fight, and explained it all. Useful information, too."
On the Field
"Wow, you're really fast!"
"Damn straight! Sky Dragon: Wing Attack!" two massive blasts come from her fist as a gust of wind flies towards the pinkette, who raises her eyebrows before barely dodging it.
"Wow, you're really strong! I guess I should stop holding back now, huh?"
"About time. This is a fight after all."
"Speed of Hermes who crosses the Skies: LEGS!" came the chant from the God Slayer, a blue glow emitting from her legs before racing towards the bluenette at twice the speed, stopping right in front of the startled girl. "Sky God: Hammer Strike!" The sideways kick catching the girls gut, sending her backwards bent over. "Sky God's Dance!" The whirlwind catching the off-guard girl and sending her skyward, before jumping after her. "This isn't over yet! Sky God: Axe Kick!" She flips over mid-air, catching the floating dragon in the back who pummels straight to the ground in a cloud of dust.
She lands outside the cloud of dust, worry across her face and those of the gathered audience.
"Wendy…" came Carla's whispered concern, paw covering her mouth.
"I'm sorry if I hurt you. You were so strong I had to use more magic than I wanted to. But that was a great fight!" the pinkette calls, before starting towards the silent dust cloud. "Hey, are you alright?"
'Stop walking, Shellia. She's baiting you.' Jura muses from his bench, his brow drawn in concentration, ignoring his teammates celebration.
"God Slayer magic outdoes Dragon Slayer magic every time. Eat that, Gray" Lyon snarks, smiling to himself.
Entering the slowly settling cloud of dust, Shellia looks around hoping to find her opponent's downed body. "Hey, are you ok? I didn't do any serious damage did I?"
"Sky Dragon: Stormwind!" A sudden gust of wind carries the startled girl and knocks her against the arena wall, gasping for breath before looking up. Her opponent standing tall in the now clear arena, not a scratch on her, preparing for another assault. "Is that the best you've got?" she taunts, snickering at her confused target, before a smile forms as well.
"Oh good! We can keep fighting! I was really worried there" she calls, straightening out her skirt. "You're a lot stronger than I was giving you credit for."
"When you spend over seven years getting your ass kicked by Natsu and Gajeel, you toughen up pretty quickly."
"You trained with a Wizard Saint? Oh wow, that is so cool! So I can stop holding back now, right?"
"You better. Like I said before, this is a fight, and I don't want to win because you thought I couldn't handle your best."
"Okay! Then I'll go all out from here. Don't say I didn't warn you!" Magic seals appear around her arms and legs. "By the grace of heaven, I call upon the Cardinal Winds that run the skies: Vernier!" She speeds towards the bluenette, commencing in a quick-paced physical brawl.
On the Bench
"Isn't that the same enchantment that Wendy uses?" Lucy asks the two slayers.
"Similar, but different. I imagine it's because she's a God Slayer as opposed to Dragon Slayer. Most slayers probably all have similar attack techniques for their respective elements. Sky users have enchantments" Natsu answered for them.
"Then why isn't Wendy using it?" Gray asks.
"Because if she did, this fight would be over in a hurry" the gruff response from the second slayer.
"Not to mention, Wendy doesn't have anything to prove here. So, she's enjoying herself."
"I didn't think Wendy liked to fight? I remember she did her best to stay out of fights as much as possible" the blonde girl comments.
"She doesn't like hurting people. Probably has to do with her being a Sky Dragon slayer and their affinity for healing" he comments, watching the quick exchange of punches and kicks between the girls. "But she enjoys a good fight like any Dragon Slayer, so long as her opponent doesn't get really hurt. Gajeel and I had to literally beat it out of her to go all out when training or fighting stronger opponents. Other than that, she'd be more than happy to simply sit on the sidelines and watch us duke it out."
On the Field
"You're so fast! You're keeping up with me! That's incredible!"
"You're not too bad yourself, Sherria. I'm glad. I haven't had anyone strong to fight other than Natsu and Gajeel."
"Sky God: Dust Devil!" a rolling plume of dust gathers around the two mages, masking everything once again. "Sky God: Biting Crosswind!" A wide arc of air cuts through the dust storm, crashing into the coughing girl and slamming her into the arena wall, before shooting out towards the pinkettte, "Sky Dragon: Grip Strike!" Her first crashes into the girls face, before a powerful knee kicks her up into the air. "Sky Dragon: Mallet!" A hammer-shaped gust of wind forms in her hands, swinging it almost comically at the girl before, to the shock of many, sending the girl flying across the arena, skidding to a stop.
Taking a deep breathe, both girls inhale deeply. "Sky God" "Sky Dragon" "BELLOW/ROAR!" Two massive funnels fire at each other, colliding in the middle of the arena, a sphere of wind kicking up dust everywhere. "Sky Dragon: Secret Art" yells out, everyone looking for the origin of the voice. "Skydrill!" A towering column of wind builds up, clearing the air as the two contestants are enveloped, then suddenly the barrier collapses into a meter-wide funnel, completely focused on the god slayer, her screams of pain and surprise sounding throughout the arena before collapsing.
'Oh shit, I hope I didn't overdo it. I thought she could handle that' she ponders, the first signs of concern gracing her face as she watches her grounded enemy.
"Oh my, it looks like Sherria's down! That last attack seemed to have knocked her out!" the announcer cries, cheers building in the crowd.
"I'm sorry, just give me a second" came a sudden statement, startling many. "Phew. Wow, you are really strong. That last attack actually hurt. Thank goodness I can heal myself, or that might have been dangerous." The pink haired girl smiles, dark winds erasing the bruises and cuts on her body."
'Not bad at all' the bluenette thinks with a smile, looking over at her opponent healing herself. 'Though, her attacks are getting weaker. She seems to be running low on stamina. Maybe now is a good time to absorb some of her magic for myself' she ponders, considering her options.
On the Fairy Tail Bench
"Wow, that girl is really hanging in there. That attack would have finished t against most people" the S-Class take over mage observes.
"Yeah, she's holding up well. Wendy is doing an excellent job of keeping her attacks measured so not to overdo it. I was admittedly a bit worried with that last one, but Sherria's self-healing is keeping her in the game for now" Natsu responds, smiling at his student. "Her only real advantage is that she's not only has a God Slayer's self-healing, but she's a Sky God Slayer, which only enhances her healing abilities."
"No kidding. The other brat is tougher than she looks, but having an edge like that really helps. Too bad she's not in Fairy Tail or she could train with us" the gruff slayer supplies, also smiling at the two battling girls.
On the Field
"You're pretty good, Wendy. But I think it's time that I end this, don't you think?"
"If you think you can, be my guest" came the sassy reply, approving of her opponent's attempts to beat her, watching as black and purple clouds gather around her fists, as the Lamia Scale bench erupts in chaos.
"What is she doing!" Lyon screeches, fear and shock on his face.
"I did tell her to go all out" Jura stoically replies, not lessening his teammate's concern.
"But she'll kill her with that!"
"You and Sherria both are underestimating little Wendy there" came the calm response, eyes not leaving the field.
"God Slayer: Secret Art" she announces, spirals of dark wind surrounding the girl's hands. "Heavenly Gathering of Clouds!" A massive rope of black air lashes at the dragon slayer, enveloping her completely. The resonating blast cascading skyward. 'What in the world? That was a lot more powerful than it should have been. OH NO! I hope I didn't hurt her!'
*Cough cough* suddenly sounds from where her attack struck. "GAAAACKK DAMN that shit's disgusting" sounds out from the slowly appearing girl.
"You really rubbed off on her didn't you Gajeel" Mira teases her teammate about the young girl's language.
"No, that was Natsu's job" he calmly replies, said slayer suddenly choking and coughing in surprise embarrassment. The silver-haired model cocking her head at them before realization strikes, covering her mouth with both fists as she giggles at the red-faced slayer. "My my you've been a bad boy haven't you, Natsu?" she teases on, bumping shoulders with the man, smiling coyly with a devilish glint in her eyes.
"A very bad boy" a sexy voice sounds in his ears, adding to his embarrassment.
*Cough* "FUCK!" *COUGH* "Damn." A bent over, blue-haired figure slowly stands straight, hands crossed over her stomach, looking a little pale in the face. "Oh, that was such a bad idea."
Fairy Tail Bench
Cracks of laughter are heard from the Fairy Tail bench, as two dragon slayers realize what just happened and, to the amusement and confusion of the others, are hanging over the partition. Their bodies violently shaking as their lungs fight for much needed oxygen, tears running down their faces. "Oh my god, I can't believe she just did that" was squeaked out between fits from the pinkette.
"That's … HAHAHAHA … That's your girl Salamander … OH MY GOD IT HURTS! HAHAHA" came the guttural response from his partner, wiping tears from his eyes as he holds his stomach.
"For those of us ignorant of what just happened, would either of you two care to explain?"
"Sheeee… haha … my goodness. She ate some of the Sky God magic… hehehe" ~deep inhale~ "whoooo" Natsu eked out, getting his breathing under control, wiping his own tears away.
"She… you mean… what?" The scarlet haired knight stutters out, gears moving in her head, trying to comprehend what happened. "She just ate the God Slayer's Magic!? IN THE MIDDLE OF A FIGHT!?"
"Heh heh yeah… yeah she did. I'm so proud of her" Natsu confirms, smiling broadly, his eyes dancing in laughter still, the rest of the Fairy Tail members all sweat dropping before face palming themselves, all with the same thought: Only Natsu.
"I thought you said Dragon Slayers had to empty their magical container before absorbing other slayer magics?" the scarlet-haired knight queries, overcoming her shock with confusion.
"You're right, I did" he agrees, regaining his composure. "Either I was wrong, or she compressed all her magic in that healing boost she gave Sherria."
"What healing boost?" Gray asks, now looking back at the two on the arena.
"You saw how big that attack was right?" Gajeel asks, receiving nods in return. "That was because of the kid's magic. During the activation sequence, she dumped her magic into the other girl, boosting it's power."
"Why would she do that?" the celestial mage asks.
"So she could do something stupid like eating God Slayer magic in the middle of a fight, that's why" the black-haired man confirms, turning back towards the arena.
On the Arena
"Ugggh. Let's not do that again." ~deep inhale and exhale~ "Alright. I can breathe normally again. And the world's stopped spinning. That's a good sign I hope" the bluenette observes, her eyes coming back into focus as she blinks rapidly, shaking the newly formed cobwebs out of her head.
The pinkette, on the other hand, has not moved since that first outburst. Surprise and confusion etched over her face, trying to comprehend not only how this girl was still standing after her attack, but what she was complaining about. "Alright, let's see what these new abilities can do" her opponent suddenly states, then watches with eyes bulging as darkened air swirls around said girl's right fist, her normal blue around her left. "Oh yeah, this is gonna be sweeeeeeet! Now… to figure out how to mix them" she murmurs, balls of air collecting in her now open palms as she brings them together, a multi-colored sphere forming between her hands.
The main crowd is silent, watching in astonishment as the fight effectively ground to a halt, first because of a massive and devastating attack that seems to have had no effect. And now because one girl is all but ignoring everyone else while playing with her magic, the other stunned into inaction. The Lamia Scale bench is amongst these, minus one bald-headed Saint who is fighting back a smile, mirth dancing in his eyes as well as he realizes what just occurred between the two young women. "Well done, Wendy. Natsu has certainly had an affect on you" he quietly states aloud, eyebrows slightly raising as said girl turns and smiles at him, a Natsu-esque grin on her face as she throws him a thumbs up.
"Don't forget, kiddo, that you're still in a fight" Natsu quietly admonishes, bringing the girl's attention back around in snap surprise. "Oh right, haha I forgot" she giggles, dispelling the building magic in her hands.
"I guess I'll have to play with this later. I wonder how much time is left?" she asks aloud, before a clock appears in front of her, '2:41, 2:40, 2:39' before disappearing. "Hmm...alright, not much time but enough for a few attacks left." Looking over at her still eye bugged opponent openly gawking at her, she cocks her head in contemplation, deciding what she wants to do. "Hey. HEY! Sherria! Wake up!" she calls, snapping her fingers at said girl, trying to get her attention to no avail. "Well bugger" she muses, before sighing deeply. 'Looks like this fight is over. Might as well end it. Hopefully this doesn't do any serious damage.'
Air swirls around her, a sad smile on her face as she watches her opponent, mildly aware of the counting seconds as her magic builds up. Blue and black wind gathering around her, her fingers each in a continuous circular wave, moving the winds around in tighter circles. "Sky Dragon God: Piercing Gale!" A foot-wide rope of blue and black air lances out, striking the still stunned pinkette in the chest, continuing before impacting against the arena wall.
Sighing sadly, she looks up to her mentor, exchanging looks with the man, each with a small smile on their faces. Neither happy with how the fight seems to have ended. "What an amazing attack from Wendy! I don't know if Sherria can recover from that! What's the call on the field?" the announcer asks as everyone watches the pumpkin headed man approach the dust cloud, waving his hands to brush away the small plume, as a timer appears in the arena with the final 00:15, 00:14 counting down slowly.
'I really hope that wasn't too much. I'm not sure I was able to control the Sky God magic very well' the bluenette worries, hoping the girl isn't in any real pain, before a smile forms on her lips. "Ugggghhh… owww that hurt" can be heard by those with excellent hearing, smiles forming on their lips as the timer hit 0:00. "That's it! The match is over! It's a draw!" came the squeak from the clearing dust cloud, the Sky God slayer still standing, sort of, with her hands on her needs and breathing hard, the oompa loompa nearby waiving his arms thusly ending the fight.
Squealing in delight, the dragon slayer runs over to the shaky girl and gives her a big hug. "I'm so happy you're not hurt!" she says, squeezing the God Slayer tightly until hearing a grunt of pain. "OOPS!" she says giggling, releasing the girl. "Here, let me help heal you. You're probably worn out" she says, her hands swirling in magic over the newly formed bruises, working in tandem with the girl's self healing, the pinkette's eyes widening in realization. "YOU! You're the one that made my last attack so large! I recognize the magic you're using, I felt it!"
"Yep! You caught me! I wanted to eat some of your magic so I increased your depleted stamina and strength so it'd be a lot bigger than normal. It worked a lot better than I thought it would. You're going to be really strong one day! I hope we can fight again when that happens!" Wendy happily states, her sweet and happy nature coming out with the younger girl.
"But why? I mean, why would you eat it at all?" she asks incredulously, still processing what happened.
"Tell you what, why don't you come hang out with us tonight after dinner and I'll explain everything ok?"
"Alright, I look forward to it!" Sherria answers, her cheerful nature returning as her aches subside. The two promptly exit the arena, arms around each other, the bluenette mostly holding up her new friend.
"What a great match! Easily the best one of the day! That's it for the Grand Magic Games today folks! We look forward to seeing you all return tomorrow for the Fourth Day!" the announcers exclaims to the cheers of the crowd, as some start getting ready to leave. "HOWEVER!" he suddenly calls, freezing many in place. "This does NOT mean the end of today's events!" he drawls, confusion amongst the faces in the crowd evident. "There is one more event occurring today, Wizard Saint Natsu Dragneel's placement!" More cheers ring in excitement, remembering the man's earlier announcement.
"What placement? I thought the MPF was going to be for my placement?" Natsu asks aloud to no one in particular, re-quipping his Wizard Saint's cloak instead of the black and silver one his team sported. He turns and looks up at his guild master, "Gramps! Do you know anything about this?"
"Nothing, m'boy. I thought as you did that the MPF was your test."
Nodding, then looks at his fellow competitors' faces for any signs of recognition, the young man turns and jumps down to the arena floor, landing lightly and walking towards the center. Looking towards the Lamia Scale bench he finds Jura. -Do you know what's going on- the thought projects to his fellow Saint, his right eyebrow raised.
-Nothing- came the thought response with a shake of his head.
'Hmm… You'd think they'd've told at least SOMEONE' he thinks to himself, before scanning the crowd and settling upon the royal booth where the princess sat, anticipation on her face as she smiles. 'Why is she smiling? At least someone knows what's going on.' His eyes land on the elderly man to her side, still standing, his long beard reaching his stomach, his hooked staff in right hand. 'Ah. Well this should be interesting.'
September, X784
"It is decided then" the deep voice resonates from the bearded Council Leader, his staff at rest next to him. "Due to your actions taken at the R System, also known as the Tower of Heaven, and subsequent defeat of one Jellal Fernandes, this council thus grants you the appellation of 'Wizard Saint'. Jellal Fernandes, also known to this council and Wizard Saints of Ishgar as 'Siegrain', and current title holder of '9th Wizard Saint', is immediately and irrevocably stripped of all ranks and positions. You, Natsu Dragneel, will be newly ranked 10th Wizard Saint. Wizard Saint Jura Neekis, formerly Wizard Saint rank 10th, is henceforth risen to rank 9th, in lieu of the previously stated abandoned position, until such a time as his and your actions and strength have deemed you worthy to rise in station.
"Council Members and gathered Wizard Saints of Ishgar, welcome 10th Wizard Saint Natsu Dragneel!" A round of applause from the 20 or so gathered mages greets the now wide-eyed pinkette standing before them in his suit and tie, doing his best to keep from fidgeting at how uncomfortable he is. Not that he could at the decision he just heard.
"Thank you, Council Leader and gathered members. I shall do my best to not disappoint you" was the only response he could muster, before the assembly dismisses.
"Well done, m'boy. Well done indeed" his guild leader praises, coming up beside the young man.
"Thanks Gramps. I'm not really sure what I'm supposed to do now. I didn't fight Jellal just to get some title, y'know" he answers, pulling at the tie, loosening it. "I hate this stupid suit. Can I take it off now?"
Chuckling with a knowing nod, Gramps answers, "yes, m'boy, you can take it off. Just don't destroy it, suits are expensive you know."
Pulling off the jacket and throwing it over his shoulder, holding it by the collar, he turns and smirks at his guild master. "Yeah, I know. Now that I'm a Wizard Saint, I gotta start controlling how much damage I cause, don't I?"
"Yes, you most certainly do. Responsibility is an important aspect to being a Wizard Saint."
"Then, I might as well start somewhere. I'd bet not destroying my jacket on the way home is a good place to start."
Barking out in laughter, the smaller man turns towards the exit. "Yes, it certainly is a place to start."
"Ladies and gentlemen, wizards and children of all ages! Allow me to introduce to you, Chairman of the Magic Council, Gran Doma!"
Said man steps forward, his hardened eyes scanning the crowd before finishing on Natsu, who returns the gaze with equal intensity. "Wizard Saint Natsu, eight years ago you were made a Wizard Saint after defeating the former member, Segrain, more commonly known as Jellal. During the course of your disappearance, information was provided to the Council confirming that you were not dead, merely in stasis. As such, your rank and title were put on hold until your reappearance.
"Now, three months after your reemergence, you are being granted the chance to prove yourself worthy of your rank. And should it be warranted, a new ranking will be granted to you depending on the results of your challenge. Do you accept these terms?"
"I do."
"Very well. Then meet your tester and challenger. Welcome to the arena, First Wizard Saint, GOD SERENA!"
'Holy. Fucking. Shit' the Pinkette all but screams in his head, eyes widening in shock, said man's scent reaching his nose as a wide grin growing on his face, turning in the direction of said man.
September, X784
"NATSU!"
"Hey Happy! Where's the rest of the gang?"
"We're over here, dragon breath."
"Hey guys. You didn't wait very long, did you?"
"Not long, no" the scarlet knight answers, stepping up to the slightly shorter man. "What was the council's verdict?"
"They took all of Jellal's titles, as both Jellal and Siegrain" Makarov answers instead.
"And then gave Jura his rank as a Wizard Saint" the pinkette adds, scratching the back of his head.
"Is that all? Why did they call you here specifically then?" she interrogates, looking between the two.
"Well... no, that's not all" their guild leader answers, scratching his cheek with his index finger.
"The Council, in all their brilliance and wisdom, gave your pink haired friend here a Wizard Saint title" came the answer from behind the group, turning them around the face the newcomer.
Bowing his head in deference, Makarov acknowledges the man. "God Serena, I was not aware you were visiting today."
"You wouldn't be. I was not planning on attending, but hearing of another Dragon Slayer possibly joining the Wizard Saints intrigued me."
"'Another' dragon slayer?" Erza asks, eyes widening a fraction.
Turning towards the young woman, but not after a long and thorough looking over, the orange haired man answers with a smirk. "Yes, I am a dragon slayer as well. I am not surprised ones such as yourselves are unaware of that."
"He is also known as 'Eight-Dragon God Serena'" Makarov provides, ignoring the taunt.
"EIGHT!?" Natsu finally croaks, his astonishment at another Dragon Slayer turning from shock to awe.
"What do you mean 'such as ourselves'?" Gray interrogates, his face turning red before a metal hand grips his shoulder.
"Don't ask questions if you are unprepared to accept the answers" the stoic knight admonishes, her face carefully masking her own reactions.
Smirking at the others, Serena turns towards his fellow Saints. "I look forward to seeing just how powerful you truly are, Wizard Saint. We shall see who the Alpha Dragon truly is" he remarks before turning and walking away. "Until next time."
"I look forward to it" Natsu answers, grinning as only he can.
"WHAT THE HELL! HE'S GOING TO FIGHT GOD SERENA!" Gray shouts dumbfounded.
"Well, well, well. It's about time" came the slightly high pitched voice comes from the opposite tunnel, his hands clapping slowly as he approaches. "I've waited eight years for this moment, and now it's here. Do make sure it's a decent fight would you? I would be disappointed if after all this time you've wasted my time" he sneers condescendingly, a sadistic grin on his face as he comes to a stop a short distance from his opponent.
"God Serena" he acknowledges, tilting his head slightly. "I shall endeavor to make it a good show. I must say I am surprised you would take the time to fight one as lowly as me" he snarks in response, sarcasm dripping from his words.
"Consider yourself a matter of interest and intrigue only" came the response through pursed lips. "I merely want to prove that I am still the strongest Dragon Slayer on Earthland."
Fairy Tail Bench
"Did he just say 'Dragon Slayer'?" Laxus asked, surprise on his face.
"Yes, God Serena utilizes eight different elements in his magic" his grandfather answered from above him, eyes builging at the confrontation in the arena.
"Yep! But he's not a true slayer though" the youngest slayer corrects. "He's like you Laxus, a Second Generation who had Lacrima infused in his body."
"Yeah, that's probably the only reason he even became the top Wizard Saint. Fusing eight lacrimas together, stupid cop out. Can't do it the hard way like the rest of us" the third slayer adds, a sneer on his face, disgust evident.
"Maybe, but there is no doubt he is very powerful" Erza adds, her concern growing.
On the Field
"If you think either of us are the strongest Dragon Slayer you're sadly mistaken" the pinkette scoffs, shaking his head at his quarry's arrogance.
"Who is stronger than I you stupid boy?" Serena asks, arms out in challenge to all. "Surely you don't think that little brat is? Or the gearhead? Maybe your blonde friend? Surely not the two morons over there" he adds, thumb towards the Sabertooth bench.
"You really are as stupid as you look, aren't you?" came the calloused response with a shake of his head.
"He never was a very intelligent one" the voice belittles, Natsu fighting a reaction at this information. 'How does she know that? Do they know each other?'
"I had thought to go easy on you, but now you've made me mad" an angry voice declares, bringing him out of his thoughts as a pressure builds against his chest.
"Hmph. I would've been disappointed if you had." Holding his hand up to stop the angered man, he adds, "But let's not do this here. we don't want to destroy the arena." He points in the direction of the open plain beyond the walls. "There's an open plain a few miles wide out that way. Let's fight there. No interference, no obstacles."
"Fine" came the short reply before disappearing in a flash.
Turning to the announcers and royal booths, the remaining pinkette asks, "With your permissions of course. Collateral damage would be most unfortunate for a simple rankings match" he requests, bowing slightly towards the princess.
"That is agreeable, Wizard Saint Natsu" the green haired princess addresses while standing, before the announcers can respond. "You are correct, collateral damage should be minimized. I believe that open plain is unclaimed, so any damage to it will not be detrimental."
"Thank you, your highness" came the response with his signature smile, bowing to the lovely lady before turning towards the Master of Ceremonies. "Do you wish there to be a time limit, or continue until told not to?" he asks of Mato, who is pondering the question. "Because this is a special match, we'll allow an hour or until one can no longer continue the fight, or if it is declared over to prevent any major damage to either of you." Nodding his head, Natsu agrees before bowing to the princess again and disappearing in a flash of flame.
"Where'd he learn to do that?" Lucy asks, surprised at her friend's sudden disappearance.
"Thunderbolt here taught it to him" Gajeel answers, thumbing towards the Lightning Slayer. "He's been teaching the midget it as well."
"Can't you do it, Gajeel?" Mira asks.
"No, neither of my elements have that ability. Not that I've discovered at least" he adds as multiple massive screens appear, showing the two fighters now facing each other on the open plain.
"Took you long enough, runt" the older Saint sneers as his opponent appears before him.
"Had to ask permission first."
"We're Wizard Saints, and Dragon Slayers to boot. We don't have to ask permission to do anything."
"Whatever you say, bucko. Now are you going to talk all day or are we going to fight?" he asks, his fire magic building around him.
"I'm going to wipe the floor with you, punk. You're just lucky I was told I'm not allowed to cause any fatal damage or I'd be ripping your guts out." A massive burst of power expels from the man, winds swirling around him as he releases his power, before launching himself at the pinkette.
'Holy shit he's fast' he thinks, narrowly avoiding the punch, before throwing his own which was also avoided. The two continue on dodging each other's fists for several minutes until a surprised Natsu is flung from a well-placed kick. "Cavern Dragon's ROAR!" a brown and green blast impacts the still sliding slayer, who crosses his arms in front of him to block it. "Sea King Dragon: Stormblades!" A small thundercloud forms above the two before dagger-shaped and sized water droplets pour out towards the fire user.
"Fire Dragon: Desert Storm!" A red and brown whirlwind appears, ripping into the cloud, vaporizing the still falling daggers. "Impressive, using dry air to counter the water. He really has improved" Makarov muses, watching the conflict. "Fire Dragon: Hellbound Halberd!" He fires his version of Laxus's spell at the still sneering man, who casually dodges it, watching the shaped flame go by. "Fire Dragon: Iron Fist!" Serena is caught off guard by the fist in his gut, sending him back a few paces.
"You'll pay for that! Gale Dragon: Jet Stream!" Multiple ropes of wind blasts race towards the slayer who is doing his best impressive of a spasm attack to dodge them. 'Holy shit. This is what Wendy has to look forward to? Fucking hell' he thinks between dodges as the man builds up another attack. 'No playing around here. Time to upgrade.' "Sea King Dragon: Encircling Deluge!" The torrent of water merges with the wind blast, piercing blades of water drawing closer to the dodging slayer. "Inferno Dragon: Firestorm!" came the cry, massive plumes of swirling steam blasting skyward as a wall of fire collides with the torrent.
"Inferno Dragon: Eruption!" Natsu crouches down in a sprinter-like stance before launching himself at Serena, a massive shield of fire in front of him. "Gale Dragon: Storm Mail!" A thick protection of wind surrounds his body as his fist meets Natsu's, their elements fighting for dominance as the latter's attack tries breaking through the wind-based armor, finally throwing off his opponent. "Cavern Dragon: Stone Spears!" He punches the ground, sending a shockwave towards the pinkette, spears of rocky earth launching at him. "Inferno Dragon: Molten Earth!" His body seems to erupt in flames as he too punches the earth, the ground seeming to liquify under him as it spreads, a wave of molten rock blocking the spears and spreading in all directions.
"Sea King Dragon: Flash Flood!" His palms smash together, a wave of water appears from his outstretched hands, more steam rising as the immediate area is drenched in boiling water as it collides with the molten rock, steam appearing everywhere as the two attacks cancel each other out, the earth between them blackened and broken. "Not bad, not bad at all. Now that the warm-up is finished, what do you say we kick this up a notch?" He asks, not waiting for a reply as he releases more power, dispelling the gathered steam to reveal his smiling opponent.
"Yes, let's" came the response, releasing his own power as the ground between them rumbling at the colliding waves of power.
Fairy Tail
"THAT WAS A WARM UP!?" Lucy cries from the Fairy Tail benches, jaw dropped in exclamation.
"You saw what he did against the MPF, didn't you? You thought any of those attacks were anywhere near that level?" Gajeel answers, not even blinking at the display between the two Saints.
"And he's only used one element as well" Wendy supplies, her arm on her knee, chin in hand as she sits on the balcony wall. "Granted, he used the second level of said element, but still only one element" she adds, watching the older slayers' power collide between them.
"Can either of you use a second level of your elements?" Mira asks of the two, looking between them.
"Yeah" "Of course" both answer, not looking at the silver haired model.
On the Battlefield
"Let's dance" Natsu, breaking the silent battle before launching at his opponent again, their fists a blur to most as they exchange glancing blows while dodging each other's attacks.
"Wow, Natsu has gotten fast" Erza observes, her trained eyes widening as she follows the fight.
"What do you mean he's fast, they're barely moving" Gray drawls, watching as it seems the two are doing a slow tango across the battlefield
"Watch the ground beneath them" Makarov calls down, as he and few others of the guild watch wide-eyed at the impressive speed being displayed by their comrade. Gasps of shock echo around the gathered as they start seeing the aftershocks of several attacks affect the ground, dust and rock being kicked up by the encounter.
"Darkness Dragon: Shadow Lock!" Natsu suddenly comes to a halt, his body shaking as he fights off the effects. 'What the hell? I can't move!' "Lightray Dragon: Destiny's Call!" Natsu slowly starts rising in the sky as if being taken to the heavens, his body still rigid as he hovers a few meters off the ground. 'This can't be good.'
"Not bad eh? Stop your body from moving by controlling your shadow, then levitating you in the air, helpless to fight? Perfect target practice" the first-ranked Saint monologues, gathering his magic in his cupped palms before him. "I promise this attack won't kill you, but it will hurt. A lot. Good-bye you little punk, a shame you couldn't put up a better fight."
A sickly yellow and black ball of energy forms in his hands as he draws back like a pitcher, before tossing it at the incapacitated slayer. "Acid Dragon: Bone Peeler!" The ball impacts the slayer in a neon explosion, a scream of pain heard to all as mouths are covered in shock and fear. "Welp, this was a nice diversion" he adds, turning from his downed prey.
"This isn't over yet you asshole" a gasping voice calls out, the surprise evident on all, none more so than Serena. "I'm still standing."
With a grin, he turns around and faces the hunched over man gasping for air, his coat shredded and blood red flames covering his body. "Well then, it's your funeral" he answers with a shrug, releasing his power again in a swirling mass of color before darting towards his prey, his fist reared. "Darkness Dragon: Shadow Grasp!" His hand seems to disappear and reappear from the ground, hitting the shocked man in an uppercut. "Mirage Dragon: Clone!" Multiple Serenas suddenly appear, all with sneers on their face as they take turns knocking the man between them like a pinball before one of them lands his elbow on the man's neck, before a second knees him in the face directly into a third's water-covered fist. "Sea King Dragon: Shipwreck!"
"Inferno Dragon: Roasting Bath!" A number of girls in the Fairy Tail guild sweatdrop at this, disbelieving he'd use such a cheesy spell in a major fight, watching as Natsu blocks the punch with his fist while boiling the water away.
"Seriously?" Lucy asks disbelieving, her unimpressed look mirrored on several women. "That's got to be the cheesiest thing ever."
"Maybe, but it's working. Look!" Gray points towards the lacrima screens where Serena's face seems to be changing from sneer to in pain.
"ARGGGHHH!" Serena cries falling back, holding his now puffy fist, his mirages and magic dying back. "What the hell did you do to me!?"
"Heh heh can't handle the heat, can you? Like I said, you're nothing but a fake dragon slayer. Pathetic" Natsu admonishes, standing up with a grin, getting his breathing under control, before punching the still agonizing man, sending him flying through the air to a skidded stop. "Let me show you the power of a TRUE dragon slayer!" He takes a deep breath and exhales before crimson and gold fire erupts from his feet. "MOLTEN CORE!" Reddened scales climb across his body, his canines becoming more feral as he grins at his shocked opponent as the visage of a dragon forms above him.
Fairy Tail Bench
"Oh my… did he just..." Mira begins, eyes wide in astonishment.
"Sure did, he just entered the Dragon Force" Wendy confirms, smiling widely.
"So this is what it looks like" Erza muses as she observes her friend.
"He's gotten even stronger since the last two times I saw this" 'Mystogan' supplies, his face unreadable behind his mask. "Impressive that he is able to activate it without outside interference."
"Yeah, it took Salamander a long time to figure out how" Gajeel opines, his arms crossed. "He was pissed off about it for years before he managed it. Really got on the nerves at times."
"Can either Gajeel or Wendy do that?" Juvia asks, the only response a pair of smiles.
On the Field
"YOU THINK THAT'S ENOUGH TO DEFEAT ME!?" the God cries out, anger evident on his face before he releases his own power. "YOU ARE NOTHING COMPARED TO ME! CAVERN DRAGON: SINKHOLE! SEA KING CAVERN DARKNESS DRAGON: CRUSHING DEPTHS!" A massive hole forms in the Earth beneath the pink fighter before being filled with water black as night, the unexpected lack of foothold catching Natsu off guard as he falls into the rapidly filling hole, splashing into the water.
"What the hell is this shit!" came the cry sputtering and spitting out the black liquid, his attempts to stay afloat seeming to be restricted by the dark water. 'Why the fuck is it so hard to move! It's like moving through mud!'
"This is the end for you, Natsu" he spits out, still safely on the ground as he forms a ball in his hand. "My Crushing Depths is equivalent to water at the bottom of the deepest lakes, and thick as a large mud pit. Good-bye, Dragon Slayer" he spits out. "Sea King Dragon: Water Lock!" A large sphere of water rises from the filled hole, a lone finger barely seen struggling inside.
"Fire Dragon King's ROAR!" A massive funnel of flame launches out of the water sphere, striking the shocked Saint with clenched hands, sending him sprawling as the water sphere breaks, a grinning pink haired finger floating above the water, wings of fire emitting from his back, flapping to keep him airborne. "Fire Dragon King: Sword Horn!" Headbutting the rising man, he's sent sprawling again before rolling back onto his feet. "Acid Gale Dragon: Acid Rain!" Sickly thunderclouds form in a hurry, purple and yellow droplets hailing down on the field at the Fire user. "Fire Dragon King: Concussion Blast!" He all but spits out a large missile-shaped fireball that explodes on contact with the cloud, dissipating it, but not before a few stray drops hit his arms. "ARGHH SHIT that stuff hurts like a mother…"
"WHO'S PATHETIC NOW YOU LITTLE TWERP! LIGHTRAY MIRAGE DRAGON: LIGHT OF DAWN!" His fists pound together as a brilliant light shines, blinding all viewing it. Only Natsu's instincts save him in dodging multiple fast paced punches. "Fire Dragon King: Flame Elbow!" His attack misses, but the diversion allows him to escape the blinding light. "Fire Dragon King: Crimson Lotus: Phoenix Blade Storm!" He charges towards his opponent as if to headbutt before unleashing a hail of punches and kicks all caked in golden yellow flames. Serena dodges and blocks all of them before countering, "Lightray Dragon: Holy Seal!" His forceful palm to the chest backs Natsu up in surprise as his magic disperses, looking around in shock.
"What the hell did you do?!"
"I sealed your fire magic away. Now I can end this farce! Darkness Dragon Secret Art: Sacrament of the Night!" A blackened orb the size of a truck impacts on where Natsu was standing, the cacophony a screeching wail of torment as the viewers clutch their ears, the sounds of nails on chalkboard and breaking bones amongst those heard in the vibrations. "Heh, and that's that." Clapping hands as if two dust them off, he turns to walk away before once again being stunned into silence. This time by a lone figure standing a few meters from him, arms crossed, eyes focused on the seeming victor of the fight, a pulsing yellow light flickering around him.
"Y'know, your arrogance is going to get you killed one day" the man states calmly, eyes analyzing the gaping man. "I just hope I'm there to see it."
Finding his voice, Serena screams at the man "HOW THE FUCK DID YOU SURVIVE!? I SEALED AWAY YOUR MAGIC!"
"Correction. You sealed away my Fire Magic. You didn't really think you were the only one here with multiple magics did you?" the snickering man asks, barely concealing a smirk from his face before uncrossing his arm. "There are only two things you should ever turn your back to in a fight: a wall, or a corpse." Outstretching one hand towards the enraged man, he asks, "Shall we continue?" beckoning the man towards him.
"FINE! NO MORE HOLDING BACK! I'M GOING TO BURY YOU AND DANCE ON YOUR GRAVE!" The area around Serena seems to explode in a wave of color as he releases his power. "NOW YOU'VE PISSED ME OFF! I'LL PUT YOU BACK IN YOUR PLACE! I'VE WORKED TOO DAMN HARD TO GET HERE, AND I'LL NOT BE INSULTED BY A PATHETIC LITTLE BRAT LIKE YOU! DRAGON SLAYER SECRET ART: TRUTH OF THE NOBLE FOUR!"
Four massive dragons suddenly appeared behind him to the surprise of all, not the least of which Natsu, nearly gawking mouth slightly agape at the very realistic visages. He's brought out of his astonishment by pure instinct, leaning backwards as a blue-aura fist misses his face by a hair's breadth, before dancing backwards again to avoid the brown-aura leg's swipe at him, then again as another, lighter blue fist swings at him before a red-colored leg connects in his gut, nearly knocking the wind out before more fists and legs connect. 'Fucking hell he's gotten even faster.'
Drawing on his magic, he coats his hands in light yellow, blocking as many of the attacks as he can.
"What's happening, Erza? I can't tell anymore" Gray asks, trying to understand why the two men seem to be just standing there with the four dragons looming over them.
"He's increased his speed even more. I'm even having difficulty following it. I don't think Natsu is even consciously fighting anymore, just reacting" she replies, astonishment written on her face.
'I need an opening, just anything would do' the man plans, the rest of his concentration on avoiding the barrage of attacks coming from the enraged dragon slayer. 'THERE!' he cries silently, seeing a lull in the wave of hits. "Lightning Dragon: Roaring Thunder!" The hit collides with Serena's right shoulder, spinning him around before a retaliating "Cavern Dragon: Crushing Fist!" launches him skyward, the actual fist of stone coming from his feet. Serena jumps up after his flying opponent, using his air magic to climb to the skies. As he nears the seemingly disabled man, he begins another attack. "Sea King Dragon: Sky…" Before he can finish, he's met with "Photon Dragon: Jawbreaker!" A two handed fist catches him in the chest as he plummets downward before colliding violently with the ground.
"Photon Dragon?" Laxus asks, his normally stoic face now covered in curiosity as he questions the other two slayers.
"Yep, second evolution of your Lightning Dragon. If we're lucky we might get to see the third evolution of it" Wendy answers with a slightly maniacal laugh, causing Mira to giggle lightly at the young girl. 'It's so strange seeing how much Wendy has grown up and changed in such a short time. Well, I suppose she's had seven years to grow up while we were in stasis. Still, it's very strange and amusing the way she's changed.'
"Gale Sea King Dragon: Storm of the Century!" A massive tornado pitches out from his outstretched hands, catching Natsu with it's violent winds before flashes down in front of the wind user. "Gale Dragon: Eye of the Storm!" A secondary twister forms inside the first, creating a wall of wind surrounding the two fighters. "Now, there is no escape for you. There's no getting away from me this time" the orange haired man snarls, hate dancing through his eyes.
"Wasn't planning on it" came the equally snarling response, before another explosion of yellow, static light. A torrent of bolts crawling through the air and ground around him. "ION REACTOR!"
"Let me guess…" Laxus begins, watching in awe of the potential power he could reach, and in envy as the yellow dragon forms above.
"Yep, Lightning Dragon Force. Looks like we'll see third level after all, hehehe" Wendy answers giddily, her chin in her hands as her feet wave in the air behind her, watching the fight wide-eyed.
"Another Dragon Force? How quaint. That won't help you here! Mirage Dragon: Clone!" Once again, a half dozen Serenas surround the pinkette, who looks at each of them, noting their positions. He makes a motion remarkably like Jellal's "Sema", before responding. "Plasma Dragon: Static Discharge!" A half dozen lightning bolts seem to attack each of the clones, before one solidifies and explodes on contact.
"ARRRGGHHH! HOW DID YOU KNOW WHICH WAS THE REAL ME!?" came from behind and to the right of him.
Turning to the now exposed man, he explains, "You can thank Rufus from Sabertooth for that one. On the first day's event he hit all seven of his opponents with one attack. I spent all day yesterday trying to figure out how he knew where each of them were, and how to aim all seven accurately. After getting shocked by my doorknob last night, I realized only the real people would've attracted the lightning. Your clones may do damage to me, but only the real you could've been hit by it."
"So that's how he did it" Gray vocalizes, following the conversation.
"That's very clever" Mira agrees, nodding her head.
'Natsu really has grown up, hasn't he' Erza thinks to herself with a small smile. 'He's using his head more and more.'
"Looks like he figured you out, Rufus" Sting teases his red-capped friend.
"Merely one attack. I have many more in my repertoire. Including several from this bout I am committing to memory. I look forward to employing them in the future."
"GAHHHH!" came the cry before a hailstorm of punches, every other one landing on the pinkette, but not without receiving an equal number in kind as the dragon fight turns in a slugfest.
"Holy shit they're just duking it out now" Gajeel remarks, eyes trying to keep tabs with the ricocheting attacks.
"Damn, I was hoping to see more of Natsu's tricks" Wendy answers, slightly disappointed it's coming down to this.
The brawl continues on for another ten minutes before two fists collide midair, the resulting explosion disipating the wind barriers, the two fighters catapulted backwards, before hurling back at each other in another flurry of punches. Another collision of element-covered fists once again ricocheting the two apart.
"THIS ENDS NOW! DRAGON SLAYER SECRET ARTS: PATH OF THE EIGHTFOLD!" Four more dragons appear next to the existing four, a massive hydra on display. "PURGATORY DRAGON'S ROAR!" Natsu just smirks as the funnel charges him, not bothering to move as it collides, eating up as much as he. "Ahhhh, good java. Thanks buddy! I needed that recharge" he calls out, thumbs up to his opponent, watching as he bangs his head on the ground.
"Stupid, stupid, using fire magic against a fire dragon slayer. GAH!" he cries, before standing back up. "Damn it!"
"I was wondering what the eighth element was" Erza muses aloud. "It only makes sense though, considering he'd already used Earth, Air and Water magics."
"LIGHTRAY DRAGON: SEALING WALL!" A bright, coalescent wall forms a large circle around Natsu, who takes his stance, awaiting what follows. "PURGATORY CAVERN DARKNESS DRAGON: RAGING CHASM!" Three of the dragons' maws open wide as bolts of their elements impact in a circle around Natsu near the walls, who watches in confusion as the circle completes around him, then flashing away as the enclosed area explodes. 'Holy fuck that was close' he thinks as he lands safely outside the lighted wall.
"HOW DID YOU AVOID THAT!? YOU SHOULDN'T BE ABLE TO GET THROUGH MY WALL DAMNIT!"
"Hehehe, my little secret" he giggles at the red faced man, tapping his nose tauntingly.
"DAMN YOU!" His hands perform an intricate dance before coming together, palms side by side towards Natsu. "EIGHTFOLD DRAGON FORBIDDEN ART: ABYSS BREAK: CHAOTIC STREAM!" A large magical seal forms in front of each of each dragon, before each fires a beam of light to a central seal forming in front of Serena. Natsu flashes a distance away and begins expelling as much magic as he can, releasing each of his elements simultaneously. 'Fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck…'
"HE'S CASTING AN ABYSS BREAK!?" Makarov all but screeches, fingers losing blood as he grips the edge of the balcony.
"SHIT! THAT COULD ACTUALLY KILL NATSU!" Erza cries, her terror being matched by everyone.
"GO TO HELL YOU FUCKING ASSWIPE!" Serena cries, the seal completing as eight elemental ropes of power charge at the opposing slayer, weaving amongst each other before coming together as one beam.
"OPEN GATE OF ASCENSION!" A massive swath of power bursts forth, enveloping the area meters around him in the golden glow, the earth cascading away in tumbles as the earth seems to melt. "DIVINE DRAGON SECRET ARTS: GUARDIANS OF THE PEARLY GATES: FIRST KNIGHT!"
A monstrous visage appears, bent on one knee as if landing from the heavens, it's body protected by armor that seemed to radiate power. The helm, a dark ebony-like hue, horns bent from each ear. Along the center line, a spartan-esque bone running from nose to base of skull. Bleached white bones hanging from the base of the helm, protecting the neckline. Eye slits displaying golden eyes glowing with power. The mouth piece bent outwards, as if extra fangs to give fear.
The chest piece and shoulders with equally bleached white bones interweaved together. The shoulders adorned by protruding claws extending down to the elbows, bent outwards. The boots, matching the helm in color, bones very much evident in their protection, the top of each boot with additional claws hanging towards the ground, giving the impression of a dragon's foot instead of a man's.
The gauntlets, matching the boots and helm in their opaque color, had several bones overlaying each other up under the shoulder pieces. In the left hand a massive shield, bleach white and adorned with a symbol on the front of three different colored dragons, their bodies all intertwined as their heads face outwards, jaws slightly open displaying their teeth. In the right hand a massive broadsword that seemed to be pure energy, swirling in red and gold color with the blade resting on the ground.
As the Abyss Break spell spirals towards them, the massive knight takes a step forward, raising his shield in front of him, crouching down and bracing himself against the ground as the spell crashes against the monstrous shield, an otherwise impressive aura surrounding him as the spell continues pouring into it, magical energy cascading all around the defending duo.
The crowd watches in awe and fear as the collision of two titanic attacks slowly dissipates. First the attacking beams losing their power before subsiding altogether. Then the defending visage begins losing his solidity as the summoner goes to one knee, panting heavily at the amount of power just used. His opponent, looking victorious before also going to one knee, his eight dragons losing form before joining the knight in the ether. "Damn you… Serena…" can be heard before the speaker collapses in exhaustion. "Fuck you… Natsu …" came the response before also landing on the ground, remaining conscious.
The crowd is in pure silence before a final sentence is heard by the still conscious man, who has managed to roll onto his back. "That was awesome…" At that the crowd explodes in cheers at the amazing display of power they were just witness to. The princess had abandoned all impropriety long ago, at the booth's edge, leaning over in amazement, now clapping wildly and cheering the fight. "Magnificent! Most magnificent!" she cries out, cheering very much like the star struck young woman she was.
"Well done" came a deep voice over the sound system, quieting the crowd somewhat, the Council member clapping along with the crowd. "Well done indeed. I daresay, awarding Natsu Dragneel the title of 5th Wizard Saint would not be a stretch. Wizard Saints Jura and Makarov, would you agree?" Both wizards voiced their unheard agreements, their nodding heads and impressed faces visible on the lacrima screens around the arena. "It is decided! Wizard Saint Natsu is granted rank of 5th henceforth! I will be discussing the fight with the Four Gods of Ishgar to deliberate if a higher rank is necessary.
"Thank you all for coming today! I wish you all a great evening, and look forward to tomorrow's events!" With that he turned and left the booth, the crowd erupting in cheers once again, the princess along with them before following suit.
As Natsu hits the ground, both Laxus and Wendy disappear from their booths, and appearing next to the fallen man. Wendy's hands immediately checking for injuries, her magic covering his entire body. "He'll be fine, he'll be sore for some time but the bruises I can heal. Mostly just suffering from magical exhaustion. He does have a few broken rib bones, and maybe a concussion. But nothing too serious despite the beat down he took."
"Alright, let's get him back to the infirmary. We'll get the old lady to help you as well." At hearing the other man's final words, the blonde turns and walks over the the still downed man. "Might as well bring you too" he says, bending down and throwing the other man over his shoulder despite the objections, before flashing away, followed by a bluenette carrying her fellow slayer.
Hours later, darkness cloaking the city, a lone figure is seen walking towards the Fairy Tail infirmary. Their very womanly hips swaying, her cloak doing little to hide what's beneath it as her heeled boots clap lightly against the stone walk. Casting enchantments to prevent any interference, the woman enters the building, soft footsteps heard by few. One of those few being inside the room she is looking for, stopping only the briefest of moments as she looks inside, before opening the door.
"Well, well, well. You certainly know how to put on a show, don't you?"
The bedded figure only smiles, not at all surprised by the woman's visit, evident by the fact they were sitting upright in bed, gazing out the window. "I didn't want to disappoint you. After all, it's been awhile, hasn't it?"
"Indeed it has, Natsu. And I'm most glad to see you've not wasted any of it."
Laughing lightly, the man answers, "I did at first, I'm ashamed to say. At the time I believed too much in my own strength to really believe I needed to get much stronger, regardless of how much I wanted to."
Chuckling lightly, the woman asks, "What changed?"
"The Tower of Heaven" he answers frankly, the woman nodding in understanding. "Getting my ass handed to me by Jellal was a wakeup call to how outclassed I was. My saving graces that fight were him not wanting to destroy the tower, and my eating the Etherion." The woman outright laughs at that, the sound of such wholehearted amusement bringing a smile to the bedded pinkette. "Yeah… not one of my brightest ideas, but it was the first time I entered Dragon Force, so I'm not really complaining all that much."
"Ha ha true enough" she titters, slowly moving towards the man, her hips swaying as she does. "And here we are, years later, and you've now accomplished the feat without outside stimulants. Quite impressive, if I might say so myself" she adds, sitting next to the man, her hand carressing the man's brow, before leaning in and kissing him lightly.
"Quite the compliment, coming from you" he remarks, before returning the kiss as lightly. "Mmm, there's a proper greeting.
"Hello Irene, I've missed you too."