The Flaming Dragon Slayer
A/N: Fairy Tail prepares for their battle against Midas and the shadow monsters. Luckily, a group of mages arrives to aid Fairy Tail, who are they and will they provide the help that is needed?
Disclaimer: I do not own anything related to the Fairy Tail.
*SC* = Scene Change
"Talking"
'Thoughts'
"Telepathy"
Chapter 25: United Guilds
Lucy walks into the guild looking around while noticing numerous guild members gathering inside the building. She looks around searching for any of her comrades and finds Natsu talking to Gray with an annoyed face. Lucy smiles as Natsu turns around to the face her. Natsu takes a deep breath when he realizes Lucy is in the guild. He turns around and sees the blonde mage watching him talk to Gray.
"Hey, flame brain, you still there?" asked Gray.
Natsu stands up ignoring Gray causing the ice mage to raise an eyebrow while turning towards the direction of Natsu's gaze. Gray notices Lucy standing there staring at Natsu while Natsu stares back.
'You've got to be kidding me,' thought Gray.
"Hey, just go to her moron," said Gray.
"Shut it, subzero," said Natsu as he starts walking towards Lucy.
"Whatever," replied Gray.
Lucy smiles as Natsu approaches her. She places her hand on his shoulder as the two stare into each other's eyes. Natsu gives Lucy a bright smile as he wraps his right arm around Lucy's shoulders.
"Come on, Luce," said Natsu with a huge grin causing Lucy to smile as well.
This is one of the happiest moments of her life. Sure, she is not used to these types of moment with Natsu, but she is more than willing to slowly progress into it.
"Listen up everyone!" shouted a familiar voice.
The entire guild turns their head and notice Makarov standing near the entrance to the guild. Makarov steps in front of the closed doors. He looks around noticing every member of the guild is present.
"All right, I have received word from the Magic Council that they will be arriving in a few minutes," said Makarov. "The situation with the shadow monsters has gotten too serious, so they will be here shortly. However, like many mages, I would rather have help from familiar friends than the Magic Council. So, I called upon a few friends of ours and they agreed to help us."
This news catches everyone's attention as he or she wait for the master to announce who his or her allies are.
"We will be defending a very important area," continued Makarov. "Normally, this will be Fairy Tail secrets, but we are fighting against opponents that have caused damaged across the country. Anyway, on the other side of this door is a group of mages who will aid us in the upcoming battle. Together, along with the Magic Council's Rune Knight Army will fight against the forces of Midas and Marek."
"Come on, who is it?" asked Natsu aloud.
"Shh," said Lucy as she grabs Natsu's arm and holds his hand.
This movement causes Natsu to calm down surprising many members of the guild.
"Wow, we should have gotten them together sooner," said Droy.
Mirajane watches with stars in her eyes. She has waited for this moment for so long. The white-haired mage grabs a notepad and makes a single mark. The notepad reads Natsu and Lucy Relationship on the top.
'All right, boyfriend and girlfriend check,' thought Mirajane as she reads the rest of the notepad. 'First date, first sexual encounter, marriage, future children. Oh, I can't wait.'
"Well, I guess it is time to introduce our allies," said Makarov as he opens the guild doors. "All right, come in."
A few seconds later, four people walk into the building as Gray sighs while lowering his head. From Lamia Scale appear Jura Neekis, Lyon Vastia, Sherry Blendy, and Chelia Blendy. The four Lamia Scale mages walk into the guild slowly as they start looking around.
"Master Makarov, we have arrived," said Jura. "Together, we will prevail over those infernal creatures."
A moment passes as more people start walking into the guild. From Blue Pegasus arrive Ichiya Vandalay Kotobuki, Hibiki Lates, Eve Tearm, and Ren Akatsuki as they walk into the guild. Ichiya walks over to Makarov with perfume in his hands.
"Men, we are here to help our friends against the darkest odds. Prepare to fight for our world, men!" exclaimed Ichiya.
Shortly after, another group of mages walks through the doors. From Mermaid Heel arrive Kagura Mikazuchi, Millianna, Risley Law, and Arania Web. The four female mages stare at each other before turning their attention to the members of Fairy Tail.
"We've heard about these monsters called shadow monsters," said Kagura. "We are here to help. Mermaid Heel will show their strength in the field of battle!"
Fairy Tail starts cheering for the members of their allied guilds. Suddenly, everyone goes quiet the moment another group enters the guild surprising numerous people. They did not expect to see them. From Sabertooth arrive Sting Eucliffe, Rogue Cheney, Orga Nanagear, and Yukino Aguria. The mages walk into the guild with serious expressions. Lector and Frosch follow the mages as they land near them.
"So, you need our help against small creatures," said Sting. "No matter, with us here there is a guarantee of victory."
Natsu and Gajeel sigh at Sting's comment before they decide to ignore it for the time being.
"All right, everyone is here," said Makarov.
"Starting without me," said another voice at the entrance of the guild as Lahar and Doranbolt walk into the guild. "You can start your speech anytime you want."
"We are gathered here to battle against an army of monsters known as the shadow monsters," said Makarov. "Many of you only got limited information on the subject. I will describe it full detail in a moment."
Makarov begins telling everyone about the first appearance of the shadow monsters since not all of the guilds have come across the monsters. After telling the guilds about the recent events in Magnolia Town, the guild master finally decides to tell everyone about Mavis' discovery.
"Listen, except for a handful of people in my guild, I have not told anyone about the following information," said Makarov.
Makarov tells the group of mages about Mavis' discovery of the powerful crystal, which she took upon herself to hide from the world. Furthermore, he told everyone that Midas took the one key to unlock the seal around the crystal.
"Why have you kept such a powerful object in secret?" asked Lahar. "Such an object should be under the Magic Council's protection."
"Forgive me, but I only found out about the crystal recently," said Makarov. "Regardless, Mavis does not know what the crystal does, but it is definitely dangerous."
"It grants people tremendous powers," said Orion as he makes himself known.
"Who are you?" asked Lahar.
"I am an old enemy of Midas," said Orion. "He and I know how to use the crystal. The crystal is the reason Midas and I are here."
"It grants tremendous power?" questioned Jura. "How much?"
"It depends on the person," said Orion. "I am sure Marek will increase at a decent amount, but Midas will be at an entire different level. If Midas gains the crystal, any chance of victory will be lost. The crystal can also grant other benefits, but like I said, it depends."
"I know the location of the crystal," said Makarov. "It should take us a few hours to get there. Hopefully, we should get there before the enemy. We need to prepare to defend the crystal with everything we have."
"We should within the hour," said Orion. "If I know Midas, he should discover the crystal's location soon. The sooner we get there, the better. One good thing about the situation is Midas' lazy attitude. He will most likely take his time. We should use this to our advantage."
"I will gather some of my strongest members and will lead everyone to the location of the crystal," said Makarov. "Like Orion said, we should leave soon."
"Count me in," said another voice near the guild entrance.
Everyone turns their head as their eyes widen at the person standing there.
"Gildarts!" shouted everyone.
Cana notices a few wounds on the Gildarts as she decides to ask him.
"How did you get those wounds?" asked Cana.
"I fought Midas earlier in the week," said Gildarts. "That man is powerful. Anyhow, I am to lend everyone my aid."
"Did you win?" asked Cana catching everyone's attention.
"No, the fight ended in a stalemate," said Gildarts.
Everyone is surprised that Gildarts was unable to defeats Midas. This only proves the man they are facing is far stronger than they thought. Around an hour later, the other guilds and the Rune Knight army wait for the chosen members of Fairy Tail to appear from the guild. Soon, the doors open as Makarov exits the guild followed by Elfman, Lisanna, Cana, Freed, Evergreen, Bickslow, Levy, Juvia, Alzack, and Bisca. Makarov stops as he turns around as if waiting for someone else. Soon, more guild members of Fairy Tail walk out of the building. Gildarts, Laxus, Mirajane, Gajeel, Wendy, Carla, Happy, and Pantherlily walk out of the building as they also stop. Soon, four more mages exit the building revealing themselves as Natsu, Lucy, Erza, and Gray walking out.
"Fairy Tail swore to protect the crystal," said Makarov. "Thus, I shall bring many of our members."
"Looks like everyone is ready," said Orion. "I'll be leaving."
"What?" questioned Erza. "I thought you said you were going to help us."
"I am," said Orion. "There is somebody I need to talk to who can provide us help. I'll return back as soon as I can."
"All right," replied Makarov while Lahar remains suspicious of Orion.
*SC*
The morning turns into night as the allied guilds finally reach their destination. Luckily, Midas has not reached the location of the crystal, which is a major relief for the ally forces.
"We need all representatives for each guild!" exclaimed Lahar as Makarov, Jura, Ichiya, Kagura, and Sting walk towards Lahar.
Around an hour later, the allied guilds finish preparing their tents for the night. They do not know when Midas plans to attack, but they hope Makarov comes up with a plan. Lucy looks towards the darkening sky as a dreadful feeling begins to envelop her.
"What is this feeling?" asked Lucy. "Why do I feel like something bad is going to happen?"
"Luce!" exclaimed a familiar voice as Natsu sits down on the grass with Lucy.
Natsu turns towards Lucy and notices her sad expression, which causes Natsu to frown as well. He wonders why she is sad. Could it be the upcoming battle?
"What's wrong?" asked Natsu.
"It's nothing," replied Lucy.
Natsu grabs Lucy's hands causing the blonde mage to turn towards the pink-haired mage. He looks into her eyes, which begins to crumble Lucy's emotional walls.
"I'm afraid," said Lucy. "I feel like something bad is going to happen. What if we are separated? Something bad could happen to one of us or our friends. I can't get rid of this dreadful feeling."
"Lucy," said Natsu in a serious tone causing the blonde mage to turn towards him. "We will make it through this. We will fight together and win."
Lucy smiles as she comes closer to Natsu. The pink-haired mage wraps his left arm around Lucy holding him closer to her. This sense of security seems to comfort both of them. So much has happened since the beginning of this situation. Never has either person thought that they will end up together and in love.
'Protect your mate,' thought Natsu as he remembers some of the words Igneel told him.
Natsu looks down as Lucy places her head on Natsu's shoulder near his neck. Lucy's left hand touches his chest creating a single point of warmth. Suddenly, Natsu can feel the link between him and Lucy. He can feel her dread and sorrow. Natsu reaches Lucy's left hand with his right hand and grips it with a decent amount of strength.
"I refuse to die," said Natsu. "I won't leave you. Just use our link to search for me and me for you."
"I know," said Lucy. "I trust you Natsu to keep your promise."
"Of course," said Natsu as he gives Lucy a big grin.
Lucy lifts her head as she stares into the eyes of Natsu again. She closes the gap between them and kisses the pink-haired mage with ferocity. Immediately, Natsu begins to kiss back with the same amount of determination.
'This is only our second kiss,' thought Lucy. 'He learns fast.'
Meanwhile, the three Strauss siblings watch the interaction as they eat their dinner. Mirajane has starts in her eyes before she turns towards Lisanna causing her to return to normal.
"Lisanna, are you okay?" asked Mirajane.
"It still hurts, but I think I'll be able to accept it," replied Lisanna. "As long as he is happy. No, as long as they are happy."
Elfman and Mirajane look at each other before returning their attention to Lisanna.
"We'll be here for you," said Elfman.
"Always together," added Mirajane.
"Thank you," said Lisanna as tears roll down her cheeks.
Another ten minutes pass as Makarov, Jura, Kagura, Ichiya, and Sting return from their meeting. All guild members walk up to the small group ready to listen for any orders. Makarov waves for everyone to surround him as the mages follow his order.
"Hibiki, if you wouldn't mind, bring up a map of the area," said Makarov.
Hibiki nods as he uses his powers to create a large map for everyone to see using his magic powers.
"As you can see, we are currently in a canyon. Normally, this portion of the wild is well hidden," said Makarov.
"Is it me or does it seem like something made an impact here," said Erza.
"I'm not sure," said Makarov. "However, this canyon has existed years before the first master found the crystal. However, it seems like the crystal is in the center of the canyon. Over the years, the canyon has changed leaving three pathways into the canyon."
Makarov points towards the center of the map before moving his finger towards other sections of the area.
"All three paths are north of the crystal. The first way is through the center area where the canyon walls are low and merges with the plains in the north. We expect most of the enemies to go through this area. The second way is east of the plains where the forest becomes thick. The third way is west of the plains that lead to an open area where a small island is located in the center of a lake. The canyon walls provide good protection, which limits the enemy's movements. However, we cannot rely on it solely. We have already chosen the people to defend each section."
Everyone lowers their heads closer to Makarov waiting for his or her position on the field.
"We will defend all three paths. In addition, we will protect the cave entrance and protect the shrine itself. Furthermore, we will have a HQ Base where Hibiki will communicate to us the situations across the battlefield," explained Makarov. "Now, for the mages set for each position. For the plains defense, we will have the team of Gajeel, Levy, Jura, Eve, Ren, and Freed. For the forest defense, we will have the team of Lucy, Mirajane, Elfman, Lisanna, Evergreen, and Risley. For the lake defense, we will have the team of Gray Lyon, Juvia, Sherry, Bickslow, and Arania. For the HQ defense, we will have the team of Hibiki, Wendy, Chelia, Ichiya, Sting, Rogue, Lahar, and Doranbolt. For the cave entrance defense, we will have the team of Erza, Cana, Kagura, Millianna, Alzack, Bisca, Orga, and Yukino. For the shrine defense, we will have the team of Natsu, Laxus, Gildarts, and me."
"What happened to us?" asked Lily as Happy, Carla, Frosch, and Lector listen as well.
"I want Lily with Gajeel," replied Makarov. "The rest will remain in the HQ Base."
*SC*
Two hours later, on the outskirts of the canyon, an army of monsters travel their way through the forest terrain. Soon, they come across an opening.
"We finally got here," said Blake as he looks around the area and then notices the plains turning into a canyon.
Alvena, Len, and Liliana appear behind the red-haired man as they stop walking. Soon, Marek and Midas appear as they stare at the open plains. Midas continues walking forward as he studies the area.
"We would have gotten here sooner, but Midas took forever to make his decision," said Len.
"It doesn't matter," said Marek. "We are here now."
"What is he going now?" asked Liliana.
A few seconds later, a large bat shadow monster flies down and lands near Midas.
"Since when did we have bats?" questioned Alvena.
The bat flies away as Midas turns around and walks towards the Marek and his followers.
"The enemy is already here," said Midas. "They have station people on the three pathways into the canyon. It does not matter. I already gave my orders. General Heat and Cool, come here."
Two large robots appear from the shadows of the forest approaching the blue-haired man.
"It seems like the enemy stationed a HQ base south of the shrine," said Midas. "Once we open a path, head there and wipe them out."
"Yes, lord Midas," said the two cyborgs as they turn around walk back into the dark forest.
"It is nearly night," said Marek. "Are we attacking in the morning?"
"No," said Midas. "We don't know how long the enemy has been here. We should attack just in case they are unprepared."
"How can you be sure?" asked Marek.
"I'm not," replied Midas. "Everyone go to your positions. We strike in thirty minutes."
*SC*
Hibiki yawns as he opens his eyes after resting for the past two hours. He sits up and looks at Wendy and Carla talking to each other.
"Wendy, why did you have to come here?" asked Carla.
"I have to be here," replied Wendy. "At least I am at the HQ."
"Still, it doesn't make me feel secure," replied Carla.
"Don't worry, we are far south of the battle," said Hibiki. "I hardly doubt the enemy will attack us here. We are well hidden."
Hibiki is about to walk away when he stops suddenly causing Wendy and Carla to stare at him.
"Is everything okay?" asked Carla.
"I just lost communication with a few of the scouts on all three fronts," said Hibiki. "Oh no, the monsters are here."
"Everyone, wake up!" shouted Hibiki through his telepathic link. "The enemy is here!"
*SC*
Gajeel remains watching the night sky as he takes a deep breath. So far, there have been no signs of the shadow monsters. He would rather start fighting to the situation over with. As the iron dragon slayer turns to the left as Lily walks towards him, he suddenly hears Hibiki talk to him through the telepathic link.
"Everyone, wake up!" shouted Hibiki through his telepathic link. "The enemy is here!"
Immediately, Gajeel and Lily alongside the Run Knight army and the other mages prepare for any enemy attack on the plains. They look around searching for any signs of the enemy until a single person stands in front of the group.
"I'm here!" exclaimed Liliana as she raises her katana. "This time, I've brought some friends!"
An army of shadow monsters appears from the forest and charge into the open plains down the hill towards the Rune Knight forces.
"Don't let anyone through!" shouted Jura as he and the allied forces charge forward.
*SC*
Lucy grabs her whip and places it on her side. She sighs as she takes her keys and gives each one a good look. So much has happened since this while ordeal began. Luckily, it has been good to her recently. The relationship between her and Natsu has flourished beyond anything she thought possible. She will not lose this newfound relationship and will fight for it. For now, all she can do is wait. Eventually, the shadow monsters will appear and she will enter battle. She looks around noticing Mirajane, Lisanna, and Elfman talking to each other. With some of the most powerful mages of Fairy Tail participating, it will give them a higher chance of victory, but the enemy they face is powerful as well.
"Natsu, I hope you take care of yourself," said Lucy to herself.
Just as Lucy decides to take a small nap, a voice rings through her head.
"Everyone, wake up!" shouted Hibiki through his telepathic link. "The enemy is here!"
Instantly, Lucy stands up and clips her celestial keys to her right side as the Rune Knights gather alongside the mages station in the forest defense.
"Well, it seems like I have a welcoming party," said Alvena as she appears at a safe distance from the allied forces. "No matter, I'll crush it with my allies. Now, strike them all down!"
An army of shadow monsters appear ranging from different species as the allied forces prepare for a long battle.
*SC*
Gray walks to the lake as he notices a large bridge connecting the center island to the land. The first bridge heads north towards a large section of the forest. The second bridge heads south towards the canyon and the army of Rune Knights.
"Scared?" asked Lyon as he appears next to Gray.
"As if," replied Gray. "I can't wait to get this over with."
"I guess you're right," said Lyon as Juvia appears staring at the two ice mages.
"Juvia wants to spend time with you Gray-sama," said Juvia.
"Why spend time with the loser when you can have a good time with me?" asked Lyon as he wraps his right around Juvia's shoulders.
"Hey," said Gray. "Hands off her."
"Why would you car…," started Lyon as a voice interrupts everyone.
"Everyone, wake up!" shouted Hibiki through his telepathic link. "The enemy is here!"
"I guess we handle this dispute another time," said Lyon.
Gray cracks his knuckles as he stares towards the other side of the island. It is only a matter of time before the enemy strikes.
"Perhaps you two should have some clothes on," said Sherry as she walks up to the group.
Gray and Lyon look down and realize they are in their boxers causing the two men to curse.
"Damn it!" shouted Gray and Lyon as they find their clothes and put it on.
"You must be joking," said a voice causing everyone to turn towards the source.
Blake appears alone as he glares at the group of mages.
"I hate getting such a small amount of enemies," said Blake. "There aren't enough for me to kill. No matter, I'll still find a way to get a thrill. Shadow monsters, attack!"
An army of shadow monsters erupts from the lake and begins to charge towards the ally forces.
"Take down as many as you can!" shouted Lyon.
*SC*
Natsu sighs as he sits on a rock near the shrine. He wanted to be in the front lines, but it seems like he has to wait in the back. He only hopes his friends stay safe.
"Natsu," said Makarov. "You must stay calm. Charging blindly could cause you your life."
Natsu grumbles as a voice enters his head.
"Everyone, wake up!" shouted Hibiki through his telepathic link. "The enemy is here!"
"So, it has begun," said Makarov as Laxus and Gildarts appear next to Makarov and Natsu.
'Lucy,' thought Natsu.
*SC*
Midas remains quiet as his forces attack the allied mages. It is only a matter of time before he gains what he wants. He will not let some mages stand in his way. He looks up as General Heat and Cool approaches him.
"Go through the forest," said Midas. "And attack their headquarters."
"Yes sir," said Heat and Cool as they leave for the battlefield.
"It is only a matter of time," said Midas as a loud growl occurs behind him.
*SC*
A/N: All right, the setup is done. The final battle begins in the next chapter. Hopefully, everyone enjoyed this chapter. Thanks for reading and please review.