A/N: Hello! Long time no see!
Greetings of the day to you and hope the chapter finds you in the best of health and everything else!
Fairy Tail is finally over...I'm not crying...I mean, men don't cry right? "sniff" WAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH! Fairy Tail is over! I will miss it!
Anyway, And this is my new update!
Anyway, I hope you all enjoy this chapter and the slight changes in the Next Arc!
Chapter not beta read yet!
Please fav/follow and leave a review! reviews always motivate me to write more chapters!
Now to the chapter!
Disclaimer: I do not own Fairy Tail... it all belongs to Mashima
Fiore Kingdom Year X784
Gray grunted in pain as he was sent skidding back. His back painfully dug into the ground. He stood up slowly, wincing as a pang of pain traveled up his body. The only thing covering his body was his black pants. Otherwise, he was completely shirtless, showing the many bruises and slight cuts he had received. The Ice Mage straightening himself up and let his Magic flow out of his body. The ground below him was slowly freezing the more he let out his Magical power spike. He placed his hands in his signature Ice-Make posture and glared at the one who attacked him.
"Take this! Ice-Make: Lance!" Gray extended his arms forward. His blue Magical circle appeared in front of his body. From it, long, curved ice lances were created before being shot toward his opponent. The powerful ranged attack could have worked splendidly if his opponent wasn't a freaking monster. Ur's apprentice watched as the lances evaporated before they could even reach his foe.
"Is that all you've got, Princess?" The man in front of his asked in a mocking tone as he raised a brow. Gray's whole body twitched as he glared at him.
The opponent he was fighting at the moment was no other than his self-proclaimed rival. The ever strong Natsu Dragneel. The Dragon Slayer chuckled at Gray's enraged face as he placed his hands behind his back. The two of them were in the newly restored forest surrounding Akane Resort. The Dragneel was wearing a black sleeveless training gi with his white scarf acting as an obi with a tight undershirt with it. He had his usual red wristband. Finally, on his feet, he was covering them with a pair of black red trimmed boots. The outfit revealed his arms showing the lean cut muscle and the tight undershirt showed his chest.
It has been a whole week since Erza's Nakama left to find their reason to live and Natsu decided to stay a bit longer in the Resort. The reason for that was that he contacted Makarov and was surprised to know that he had moved the festival's day. When he asked why the old man told him that he was feeling a little worry because of Laxus' appearance on Magnolia one day. Natsu of course almost smacked himself for forgetting that it was time for The Lightning Dragon Slayer to make his move. However, much to his shock, he didn't even make one. Why?
Natsu didn't know and absolutely didn't like it. Last time, the yellow haired man had attacked and taken the girls as hostages. And this time, there weren't any. Just to be sure, he decided to ask Ultear. That woman was able to infiltrate the Magical Council and play with them like they were little children. So, to investigate the reasons to why Laxus and his minions still didn't cause any trouble, was almost like child's play to her.
He was glad she didn't do the same thing when he asked for a favor.
Aside from that, he took the chance and decided to train his friends. Which was why he had challenged them all to a fight. Needless to say, they were getting their collective asses handed to them. The only exception of was Seilah. The Etherious was sitting on a rock not too far from them, reading a book as usual. Through, Natsu noted that not even a single of their movements was missed by her. Natsu chuckled slightly as he saw Gray's frustrated expression. It was so funny that he had to fight the urge to laugh with all his might.
"Hmm?" The pink-haired man muttered as he sensed a presence behind him. He only glanced behind before he lifted an arm. His palm wide open as a demonic fist slammed into it. He grinned as he gazed into Mirajane's dark blue eyes. She was clad in her Satan Soul. Body shaking as she tried to make him budge from his spot, but to no avail. His posture was strong and firm as he gripped her fist tightly in his palm. Seeing as her attack didn't work, Mirajane tried to extract her fist back, but sadly for her, Natsu's grip was vice-like.
She grunted in pain as he tightened his grip. She then slammed her demonic claws on the ground below and kicked herself in a handstand position, causing Natsu to let go of her hand. He finally turned around and blocked a darkness imbued kick from her right leg, much to her shock and frustration. The Dragon Slayer smirked smugly, which served to enrage her to no end. The cute girl let out a squeak of surprise as he flung her in the air over his shoulder, before he turned again, just in time to catch an upcoming fist from Gray.
He slightly sidestepped and grabbed the Ice Mage's wrist with his left hand. He then used his right hand and thrust its palm from below until it collided with Gray's forearm, making sure to not use much of his strength. He didn't want to break his arm after all. The Ice Mage was sent up from the small blow and flow over Natsu's shoulders. The Dragon Slayer waited until Gray's back faced his before he abruptly turned around. With a flick of his wrist, Gray was sent flying back.
"GAHH!" spit flow out of his mouth as he collided with the hard ground his front painfully grinding against it. Natsu wiped his hand with a smirk. All of them had the same flaw. They were slow. For him at least. That was why he could react to their assaults without as much of an effort. Also, their physical strength was lacking. However, he already planned to fix all of it. From now on, things will be much more serious and they will need much more power than what they have at the moment, 'Though I need to take their training slowly or they might die. They are not Dragons after all.'
'I am happy that you finally admitted my superiority over you apes.' a voice suddenly spoke inside the Dragon Slayer's head, causing Natsu to almost face fault.
'Holy shit. Is that you Igneel?!' Natsu responded in shock.
'You sound shocked, brat.' the Fire Dragon pointed out with a hint of annoyance in his deep voice. Natsu smirked.
'No it's just I thought you died from how long you slept.' Natsu replied and he almost felt Igneel's twitch inside of him.
'Let's see if you can have the same attitude when I blast you with a fully powered Roar!' the Fire Dragon threatened as his eyes glowed goldenly.
Natsu could only chuckle, 'Scary...' he thought, faking being frightened. As he continued to evade his Nakama's attacks, he began to remember the day when he finally met Igneel again.
*Flashback*
*Two Years After Natsu rejoined the Guild*
Deep within Natsu, was a volcanic region. Inside of one of the active volcanos, was a massive Dragon. He was a gigantic Dragon whose bodily majority was covered with dark, red scales. His lower body, specifically his stomach, the inner portions of his long tail, and legs, were beige in color. He also had noticeable scars on his stomach and neck, with the largest one, which was X-shaped, located around the center of his body. His back had numerous black spikes, reaching down from the back to the end of his tail. The Dragon has a triangular head with horns, a pair of large, round eyes with yellow sclera and a sharp horn pointing upwards just above his nose. He also sported very sharp canine teeth and has claws with long, sharp, red nails. His large bony wings resembled a bat's, with rippled tips.
It was Igneel. The Fire Dragon King, also known as "Enryūō" and was the foster father of Natsu Dragneel.
The Fire Dragon was resting his head on both of his claws. He opened his eyes with were glowing, obscuring his dark, round pupils. The Dragon blow a small breath, destroying a vast amount of earth in front of him. However, he paid it no mind. His mind was elsewhere at the moment. He was thinking of his one and only son. His pride and joy and the one who changed him. From the year X777, he kept on watching his son and observed his growth. He always knew that one day, the boy will be one of -if not- the strongest mages in the world of Magic.
However, he always believed that it would take years for that time to come. Not so soon. As now. Igneel didn't know how, but after only two years of slumber, he woke up, only to be stunned by the magnificent amount of power that his son had. The Fire Dragon couldn't believe it. His little brat, the one who always had trouble learning everything, achieved strength beyond belief in just two years!
He was also worried as much as he was proud. With that strength, came a series of emotions that he didn't believe would from Natsu of all people. Anger, Guilt, and the most shocking one; Hatred. The Flame Dragon was sure that his son was unable to feel hatred toward anyone. However, he was proved wrong. From that day on, he always watched Natsu, wanting to know just what changed his little brat so much. As if answering his questions, he caught a blur of Pink in the air and slightly looked up only for his eyes to grow a little as the object of his thoughts smacked against the ground with a loud thud.
"Ouch! That freaking hurt!" A much younger Natsu exclaimed as he sat up, rubbing his head in try to sooth the pain. He finally looked up and saw his long lost father, "Yo, Dad!" he greeted with a massive grin on his face.
Igneel could only look with his eyes wide in shock and confusion. The look on his face was so funny that Natsu couldn't hold it and burst out laughing. Instantly, tears filled his eyes, "HAHAHAHA! The look... On your face!" he barely managed to get out between fits of laughter.
The Fire Dragon finally composed himself and in an instant, struck the laughing Pinkette on the head with his large hand, causing him to cry out in pain, "Iteeee! What was that for?!"
"Hmph, idiot." The Dragon snorted. In his mind, however, he was still completely lost. The pink-haired boy was acting as if he knew that Igneel was inside of him. How was that possible? They made sure to seal themselves into the boys when they were sleeping. He let out a sigh of annoyance. So much for being secretive. He finally locked eyes with the boy, "Natsu." he said, getting the boy's attention to him, "Explain."
A simple command and He almost regretted it as he saw Natsu's eyes deadened to such dullness that he wondered if the boy was a zombie. He never saw him display this kind of expression. The Dragon Slayer sighed before looking his gaze with his father's, "All I can say is that life decided to knock me down." he said in a dull tone as he smiled sadly. So many memories were flowing inside of his head at the moment and he didn't know how to explain himself.
"What?" Igneel was even more confused.
The Slayer sighed. Well, the old man who called himself a messenger didn't forbid him to tell anybody. Even if he was hesitant to tell his friends, Igneel was someone who he could trust with his most guarded secret. With that in mind, he began his tale. From the beginning of the war to the moment Zeref killed him and Wendy. Some tears appeared at the corner of Natsu's eyes in the middle of his speech, but he quickly wiped them. He refused to cry. Tears were for the weak! And he wasn't one!
After he was done. Igneel could not hold his shock anymore. His large mouth was wide open. Small embers flying out of it. His eyes were holding mixed emotions within them. Anger was the most prominent of them. That black Wizard…! How dare he?! He didn't even notice that his huge magical power was pouring out of his body, melting everything around him. Did that Black Wizard meant to anger the one and only Igneel?! His son was meant to destroy Acnologia and finish what he couldn't, not watch his friends being slaughtered before his eyes!
The Flames Dragon King forced himself to calm down. As much as he wanted to judge Zeref, he still had a duty. However, he wanted to know what his son had in mind, "Natsu." he addressed, his voice booming across the region. The pink-haired boy looked up at his foster father, who gritted his teeth in anger as he saw the dull look on Natsu's face. That expression shouldn't belong to someone this young, "What do you want to do? What is your objective now?" he asked. He wanted to know what his precious son had in mind for the future.
The question caused Natsu to lower his head, his pink hair shadowing his eyes from view, "I..." he trailed off as he tried to express himself, "I have always believed Jiji's words; that through friendship comes true power, but... I was naïve." Natsu spoke as he stood up, his eyes locked on the ground below him, "I was naïve because I believe friendship could best anything. It wasn't enough to even best the black Wizard, let alone Acnologia." at those words, Igneel could only close his eyes in shame, realizing that maybe he had made a mistake. No, they all made a mistake. The Dragons should have made their children aware of the threat that was Acnologia or at least prepare them more.
"I'm from a much different Timeline and I've seen the truth of the world and all things in it." Igneel was slightly startled to feel the ground shaking. Debris began to flow up in the air and the Magma began to shift as a red aura began to coat Natsu's body, "I saw the results of letting beings like Zeref and Acnologia alive." The small yet powerful boy lifted his head, showing his suited eyes. His lips were thin, "Zeref and Acnologia are unnecessary, and so, they should perish!" he declared, stunning the Dragon at the sheer determination he heard in that voice. Natsu's lips moved upwards into a menacing smile as his entire body was covered in a destructive red aura, but Igneel could clearly see his face, "In order to make this world a peaceful place, I want to annihilate those apotheosis of Darkness!"
Yes. Zeref had brought a calamity. Igneel concluded in his mind. He knew how stubborn his boy was and didn't want to try changing his mind. He was a parent and a parent had a duty; support their children in everything. He smirked and stood on all Fours, the upcoming years were going to be interesting, "Alright. If that's your wish..." he boomed, making Natsu stop the flow of his aura, "Your training shall commence today. This time, I won't hold back. I will put you through training that is going to push you to your limits and beyond. I will train you as my true heir, therefore, I will push you past your limits to the point you will no longer have a limit to hit!" Igneel announced as he flapped his wings, sending a destructive blast of winds.
He got his answer when Natsu gave him a stare that said it all, "I'll go through everything you put me through if it's means to protect my precious people!"
"Good! Luckily you're in your mindscape and you can train here. Then, let start!"
*End of Flashback*
From that point, started Natsu's training. It was hell for him. It was so rigorous and hard that anyone would have wished death thousands of times over. But, that didn't stop the young Dragon Slayer. He endured everything. Igneel was proud. So proud. His son never gave up even once. He would always get up and continued, no matter what he threw at him. The Flame King made a good promise of his words and pushed his little brat to his absolute limit and beyond. Natsu bled and cried, but not even one he complained. Day and night. When his comrades were sleeping, he would be training. When they would go to missions, he would be training.
Of course, when the Dragon would notice that Natsu was too much caught in his training, he would give him days off and order him to go and enjoy some time with his friends. It was both for his son's safety and for him to continue thinking of new ways to train him. The Dragon was relieved when he saw that Natsu's body already possessed the antibodies to prevent the Dragonification process. He didn't know how, but it seemed that it was also sent with back in time. Thus, it gave him plenty of time to train his son and focus on healing his own soul.
When Igneel deemed Natsu ready, he once again taught him how to use his own magic. From what he heard, Natsu already used the little bit of power he left in his body in the future. He called it; Fire Dragon King Mode. From what he understood, Natsu only used this mode once, because it depended on his own power. After his last bit of power was released, the mode could not be used again. Although, he was impressed to know that the Pinkette could use it again, using his own magical power. Although, it wasn't as powerful as before.
Using all those information, Igneel knew that the mode would be really Natsu's best weapon in the future and began to work on it. For two years, he had helped Natsu develop it and the results were... Astonishing to say the least. The Fire Dragon was shocked by just how much potential Natsu did really have. It was limitless. The brat continued to grow stronger and stronger every single day. It was two years ago that he decided that he didn't have anything more to teach the brat, which frustrated the young man to no end. Even though at that time, Natsu was easily the strongest in his guild and Fiore, it didn't stop him from continuing training.
It was at that time that Natsu met that person.
The Dragon Slayer frowned as he remembered two years ago. He snapped out of his thoughts and blocked another Axe kick from Mirajane, 'Ah, that was a good time.' Natsu thought with a sweatdrop as he remembered the many beatings and torture Igneel did to him. The Dragon called it training, but Natsu could only call it plain torture.
'You're not planning on training them the same way I did you, are you?' Igneel questioned.
Natsu grimaced. Just a little bit of that training would be too risky for them. They weren't ready for it yet. And maybe they won't ever. They didn't really have a reason to grow that strong after all. He did that training because he had a clear objective and it was necessary, but them...
'Hmph. So you're just gonna do everything on your own? How foolish.'Igneel concluded with narrowed eyes. His words caused Natsu to almost lower his guard.
'W-what?' Natsu asked as he barely dodged a vicious slash from Erza's sword.
'I said, you plan on fighting on your own. Take on Zeref and his empire and Acnologia?' Igneel repeated, he continued as Natsu stayed silent, 'That's just foolish even for you. You may have become powerful, but you're not God. You can't do everything. Even though you're training them, you're still adamant on fighting Zeref and his empire alone.' he finished before he went to sleep again. Natsu frowned at his words. That was why he did come back in time, right? It was his fight! His responsibility!
'Well, not the time to think about it now.' he thought, shaking his head to clear all thoughts. He focused on his friends, who were all again trying to land a hit on him. He smirked at them and made a 'come on' mention with his right hand.
The gesture caused them to grit their teeth. They thought he was mocking them. Gray was the first to charge. Channeling his Ice Magic, "Ice-Make: Freeze Lancer!" he shouted, creating larger ice lances that he usually does, the lances were shot toward Natsu at more speed than before. However, the Dragon Slayer still didn't move, as the lances evaporated before they reach him. Though, he raised a brow a large amount of steam rose from it. He briefly thought what the hell they were thinking. His answer came fast as Lucy appeared at his side, using the steam to cancel her presence.
"Oooh! That's a good thinking!" Natsu exclaimed as he whistled. Clearly impressed, "Though, I should remind you that I'm A Dragon Slayer." he smirked as Lucy momentarily halted in her advance. Taking the opportunity, he quickly struck her in the stomach with a palm strike, sending her flying back. Her scream disappearing as she flew away, smashing through numerous trees. Natsu then looked up before he lazily raised an arm up. His palm facing upwards as the steam was blown away, showing the Ice Mage.
"Ice-Make: Hammer!" the black-haired man exclaimed as he created a large ice hammer that floated above Natsu before dropping on him with great force. He was then completely stunned when a large part of the hummer shattered as it made contact with Natsu's hand. He cried in pain as Natsu jumped up, giving him a spinning kick. It made contact with his face. Blood flow out of his mouth as he screamed in discomfort. He felt like his face will be broken if he added any more strength to that kick. The match stick wasn't holding back today!
As he landed, he quickly jumped again as a sword passed where he once stood. Looking down, he saw The red haired beauty wielding a sword in both hands as she thrust it, using it as a spear. With a great quickness, agility, and strength, Natsu jumped up over the blade meant to stab him. Then, with a surprising lightness of feet, he landed on the blade itself. Erza was shocked, which only grow as she realized that even though he was standing on the blade, she was able to hold it up just as easily as if he were not standing on it like he wasn't even there, or as light as a feather.
"You thought it was easy, didn't you?" he asked, as he crossed his arms. Showing his amazing balance, "I'm disappointed. But your cuteness makes up for that." he teased and savored the blush that appeared on her cheeks. Even after all the fun, they had days ago, she was still shy. His eyes widened as he dodged an extremely powerful fist from an angry Mirajane, "Woah!" he exclaimed before Chuckling as he caught the angry expression on Mirajane's face, "Awww, you're so beautiful even angry, Mira-chan!"
"Shut up!" the angry girl shouted before she extended her hand towards the Dragon Slayer, who landed just beside Erza, "Darkness Stream!" she exclaimed as she summoned forth her Magic Seal underneath her lover/opponent. Natsu calmly waited before a multitude of large tendrils composed of dark energy was formed, which tried to surround and envelope him. However, he dodged every single one of them. Though, he was surprised when the tendrils began to pursue him, trying to capture him. He smirked before he summoned his new scepter. He twirled it in his hand as the tendrils rapidly approached him.
He pointed the scepter at the attack. The next instant it made contact with it, the tendrils stopped in their tracks, stunning the white haired demon as she tried to regain control of them, but her shock only grow even more as he then pointed the scepter up at her. Much to her and Erza's shock, the tendrils began to speed up toward her. It took her some seconds, but she regained her composure and began to dodge her own attack. Seeing that Mira-chan was busy, Natsu smirked as he turned to Erza, causing her to raise her blade up. He simply pointed the scepter at her and it began to glow. A red light began to surround the gemstone on top. Suddenly, Erza's eyes widened as a massive red beam was released from the scepter and headed straight at her.
Quickly thinking, the scarlet-haired knight changed her armor, "Adamantine Armor!" the armor was a large, blue and navy colored armor. The breastplate was composed of different plates joined together, with four, prominent tube-like ornaments on the front, right above her breasts, below the high armored collar. The shoulder pads were very large and sport prominent plates shaped like spikes, protruding from a far darker part which composes the base of the structure. The armor was completed by a helmet which covered the top and the sides of Erza's face, leaving the back part of her head exposed, and sporting prominent spikes jutting outwards.
"Adamantine Barrier!" the next instant she finished her transformation, she activated the special ability the armor gave her. By combining her two shields together, she created an extremely powerful Magic Barrier. Her magical circle appeared in front of the Magic Barrier. Natsu noted that it was bigger than he remembered, a good sign of progress from her. Erza shouted as the beam made contact with her Barrier. A massive shockwave was released from the collision, blowing a vast amount of earth beneath her. She grunted as her feet were dragged back by the powerful beam, though her Barrier still withstands the spell.
It felt like an eternity for Erza as she tried to stop the powerful attack. Her armor cracked with every passing second as she was dragged back. After some time, the beam finally lost its intensity. It was the chance for the Knight as she snarled and reflected the beam away, where it caused an explosion. She took the chance to breathe and it was proved fatal as the Dragon Slayer appeared behind her, his lips against her ear, "Good defense, but you let your guard down." he whispered and before she could react, she fell unconscious by a chop in the neck.
Natsu gently caught her and put her down. Her form began to glow as she reverted back to her skirt and blouse. The pink-haired man cracked his neck before standing up. Still twirling his scepter. He chuckled as he caught Seilah reading a book without a care in the world, while moving some trees with her Macro to protect her from the shockwaves and flying debris of the battle, "Hmm?" he hummed as he heard some rustling. Looking at the right, he saw Lucy and Gray emerging from where he sent them flying, both looking like they did go through many battles.
He paid them no mind as they clearly tried to recover from the brief, but the effective beating he gave them. Instead, he lifted his scepter up, holding it horizontally. A fist immediately smacked against the shaft. A crater was formed beneath him as Mirajane put more of her strength in the punch. She apparently finally stopped her own attack and tried to surprise Igneel's son with a powerful punch. The white-haired beauty winced slightly as she felt pain shooting through her. What the hell that damn scepter was made of anyway?! She thought as she retracted her fist back.
Natsu back flipped as Mira slammed her fist on the ground, sending waves of Darkness Magic up. The woman didn't let up as she appeared in front of him in a blur of speed. Natsu admired her speed and power. It was always fascinating to see. He used his scepter and began to block the new assault of his secret lover. Her fists smacked against the gemstone of his scepter repeatedly as she tried to land a hit. Her fists were a complete blur as she pumped her arms forward furiously. A punch aimed for the chest. Blocked. A kick to the chin. Blocked.
The woman was getting more and more frustrated as Natsu calmly took a few steps back and blocked each of her strikes. He wielded the scepter like he had many years of experience using it, even though, he only got hold of it a few days ago. At the same time, Erza began to stir. She shook her head and looked around. She caught the sight of Mirajane trying to land a hit on Natsu, but with no success. She quickly requiped into her Flight Armor and took off. Her speed increasing dramatically to the point of her body becoming a blur. As she was in her Flight Armor, she instead requiped The Purgatory Armor's club.
She appeared behind the Slayer and lifted the club High with two hands. She gave a battle cry and dropped it with the power she could muster. A massive shockwave was released from the collision and the ground below cratered. She looked down and was shocked to see the Pinkette had sent his left hand back without even looking and caught the club in his left palm, while simultaneously blocking Mirajane's strikes with his scepter. He sent a smirk over his shoulder before he softly hit Mirajane's head with the gemstone of the scepter, causing her to close her eyes briefly.
He then struck her with the shaft in the gut, sending her flying back with a cry of pain. He abruptly turned around and faced the red haired mage, his left hand still grabbing onto her club. He lifted it up and Erza gave a squeak as she was lifted in the air. Her grip loosened and she lost her balance, giving Natsu a clear chance. As much as he hated hitting his women, he couldn't hold back on them. With that in mind, he slammed his right elbow into her abdomen, causing a small amount of blood to fly out of her mouth. She was sent skidding back from the power of the blow as she clutched her arms around her abdomen.
The Dragon Slayer breathed out and stood in position. The club he caught from Erza vanished in a light. His eyes watching every movement of his friends as they regrouped together. Lucy and Gray joining as they prepared for one last assault. As he predicted, Gray was the first to move, "Ice-Make: Sword!" he exclaimed, creating a sword of Ice. He dashed at the Pinkette at blinding speed. Or at least for average mages. He swung his sword horizontally and blinked as his sword only slashed the air. His eyes widened as the shaft of Natsu's scepter slammed into his back painfully before he was thrown away. Though, he had secretly placed his hand on the ground before flying away.
Natsu then pointed his palm at Gray and sent a huge fireball toward the Ice Mage, who quickly gathered magical power in his hands, "Ice-Make: Shield!" he exclaimed and slammed both hands on the ground, creating a large shield made of ice in front of him, the shape was vaguely reminiscent of a flower, which shielded himself from the fireball. He grunted as he tried to stop the Fireball, he could already feel his skin melting from the insane heat.
Natsu smiled and turned his attention to the others and saw Erza requiping two swords in both hands. Still, in her Flight Armor, she sped toward him. Natsu smirked. He was going to dodge every swing. However, as he tried to move, he was surprised that he couldn't. Looking down, he saw his feet were frozen in purple Ice. A sign of Ice Devil Slayer Magic, "What?" he muttered in surprise, 'When did he..?' he questioned as he looked at him. Gray, who stopped the fireball dropped the Ice shield just slightly for his face to be shown, he sent him a smirk and Natsu narrowed his eyes, 'Heh! Slippery bastard.' he thought before he radiated himself.
"Sonic Claw!" the Knight dashed toward him at high speed and slashed him multiple times from every direction. Natsu's movements were restricted from the Ice and he could only block the slash. Though, some made contact with him. Only his clothes were cut though, much to Erza's chagrin. He turned to Lucy and Mirajane and smirked as he saw Lucy preparing one of her keys. He was about to destroy the Ice in his feet, but he quickly tilted his head to the side a sword passed him, looking behind again, he saw Erza requiping four swords. She sent two with her hands and the rest by her her feet, by wielding their hilts between her hallux and second toe.
The small distraction was enough for Lucy to summon her spirit. She pulled out the Sagittarius' key and raised it in the air, and it began to glow bright gold, "I am the one who connects the road to the celestial spirit world! Thou shalt respond to my calling and pass through the gate!" The key began to glow brightly, as Lucy pumped more magic into it, "Open! Gate of the Archer! Sagittarius!" A bright golden light shined in front of Lucy, and moments later a man in a horse costume appeared, "Sagittarius! Now!"
"Yes." Sagittarius saluted before he reached into his quiver and pulled out an arrow, he readied his bow and took aim, firing multiple arrows at Natsu.
"Me too!" Mirajane exclaimed as she gathered Darkness Magic, "Soul Extinctor!" she initiated the attack by gathering energy from the surrounding area between her hands, which subsequently took the form of a large, black globe. The globe then fired a large black-purple beam straight at the unmoving Slayer.
"Take this, Flame-brain!" Gray also took a position and created multiple arrows out of ice, which was subsequently shot at high speed to Natsu through the use of an ice bow he created, "Ice-Make: Arrows!"
"Heaven's Wheel Armor!" Erza exclaimed as she Requipped into a new Armor, "Circle Sword!" she requiped swords and had them circle around, she uttered some words and the swords began to follow every command, "Dance, My Blades!" The swords then began to spin rapidly around Erza before she sent them flying towards Natsu in a disc formation.
'My, my. They are really trying.' Seilah thought calmly as she read her book. Her Macro activated as she moved a massive Boulder in front of her.
Boom!
An explosion occurred as the four attacks all slammed into Natsu. The Dragon Slayer smirked and let the attacks hit him. The four waited as smoke rose. They knew it wasn't enough to bring him down and they already began to gather magical power to another attack. The smoke finally cleared and they saw him standing with a smirk. Only his clothes tattered, "Damn. That was a good plan." he said and was surprised to see them preparing another attack, "Oh no. I already let you have one chance." he said and moved toward Lucy and Mirajane first.
"Loke!" Lucy called out and suddenly there was a light in front of her. From it emerged Loke in a black suit, wearing glasses.
"I wonder..." Loke started as he smiled down at Lucy, "….why is it that I have the power to pass through the gate whether you call me or not. I suppose this is just proof that the barrier between human and spirit...crumbles to nothing before the power of love."
Natsu's eye twitched at that and Lucy sweat-dropped, "No...I don't think that's it, Loke."
"Not the time! The beast is coming!" Mirajane shouted in an uncharacteristic nervous tone as Natsu approached them.
"Got it!" Loke nodded as he took his casting stance, "Lion Brilliance!" he called out and let out a large amount of light from his body, covering a wide bright light was used to momentarily blind Natsu, who cried as his eyes took the full light.
"Now guys!" Lucy shouted and the four gathered the last bit of Magical power they have left, "Loke!"
"Regulus Impact!" Loke knew that this was his most powerful and was glad he had it. The one in front of him wasn't someone to underestimate. He performed this spell by gathering light on his open right palm and then clenching his fist. He pointed the fist at the Dragon Slayer who was clenching his eyes. A large lion's face materializes from light and was sent toward him.
"Satan Soul: Halphas!" Mirajane shouted as her body began to transform into her other Satan Soul form. She took over the appearance, abilities, and powers of the Demon Halphas and flow into the air, "Cosmic Beam!" Mirajane charged cosmic-like energy that was fired toward Natsu in shape of Magic projectiles. It looked like a rain descending toward the pink-haired man.
"Requip: Lightning Empress Armor!" the armor was golden and light bluish in color. The breastplate was decorated by golden trimmings and had thin plates going up to surround Erza's neck. Her head was adorned with a band with two ribbons on it, and her hair was styled in a long braid. The armor's weapon was a long spear, with a very large blade and a decorated circle resembling a shield attaching it to the shaft, which was adorned by a large ribbon. The Scarlet haired Knight pointed her spear and sent a massive amount of Lightning toward the Pinkette.
"Ice Devil's Cannon!" Gray shouted as activated his Devil magic. His arm gained tattoo designs and his magic skyrocketed, creating a large, purple bazooka-like hand-held cannon, then he fired a cannonball made of purple ice alright at the Dragon Slayer.
The four attacks were from four different directions as they approached Natsu. Creating a gigantic Explosion. A massive sphere of concentrated magics was created, sending even the users away from the shock waves. Debris and boulders flow from it. Seilah nonchalantly waved her hand in the air, blowing every rock, debris or trees that were sent her way, all the while reading her book.
A huge amount of smoke rose up from the spot as it finally dissipated. The four mages panted from the exhaustion, "Did We got him?" Lucy asked as she tried to regain her breath. The others honestly didn't have any answer for her. While they were sure that this kind of attack would have surely injured Natsu, they weren't sure if he was defeated.
Their answer came when they heard a slightly muffled voice, "Impressive. I didn't know you were capable of working together." The smoke cleared and to the shock of the four mages and the interest of one Etherious, a massive red Dome was in place of Natsu. Squinting their eyes, they saw the Dragon Mage inside of it, his scepter stabbed on the ground, the gemstone glowing the same color as the shield. He finally dissipated the barrier and smiled almost too gleefully for it to be anything good for them, "I think I'll take it up a notch to show you guys how big of a gap it is between you and me in terms of strength and experience."
The four simultaneously gulped and had cold sweat all over their entire bodies as they felt a tiny glimpse of the pink haired man's massive power radiating in waves. They looked toward the Etherious for some kind of help and she looked at them blankly.
"I have a new chapter to read," she spoke and stood up and began to leave, stunning them. As much as she liked those humans, she didn't want to get in her Natsu-sama's way, especially when he sported an expression like this one. The four heard Natsu chuckle in a way that left them trembling in fear. Lucy hugged Erza tightly as the Knight looked like a wide eyed cat. Gray sweated nervously as he tried to think of a way to escape.
Mirajane was both scared and slightly turned on, 'Why do I find this... Hot?'
They were ready to run when Natsu dashed forward with impossible speed and an evil smile plastered on his face.
*Later*
Natsu chuckled as he gazed at his four teammates, who sported many injuries. They weren't serious though. Some days of rest and they will be kicking ass again. He sweat dropped when he saw Lucy and Mirajane look away from him with puffed cheeks. He then looked at Erza, only for another huge sweat drop to join the other as she puffed her cheeks angerly, "Come on it wasn't so bad... I think." he added uncertainty as the four glared at him, "Okay... I went a little overboard." he admitted before grinning smugly, "You can't blame me, I wanted to prove my superiority over you mortals!" he declared, laughing evilly.
"I hate you." Mirajane pouted as she looked away from him. She wasn't pleased that her boyfriend had completely dominated her in the fight.
Natsu chuckled before standing up, his face completely shifted to a serious one, "Alright, listen. You guys need a lot of training." he bluntly said, getting their attention as they looked at him with confusion in their eyes, "You guys might end up dead if you don't take your training seriously." The harsh words caused them to flinch, 'Especially since I have a feeling that things will get more complicated from now on.' he added an afterthought.
"That's from your point of view." Erza retorted. Referring to how powerful he was, it was sure that he could see them as weak. She was slightly hurt at the thought.
To their surprise, Natsu shook his head, "No that's not it. I meant that there are many powerful guys out there and they all are eager to kill us. To do so, they will resort to any method, no matter the consequences. You probably saw that at the Tower of Heaven." The remainder caused them to flinch, he took a deep breath before continuing, "To prevent any unnecessary deaths, I would like to train you."
"Huh? Training?" Gray muttered dumbly as the others just stared at him. Lucy was the only one who was not surprised. She was already his student. Although, she had thought that he was the one who trained them to be strong. Just the thought made her depressed.
"That's right. Despite being strong, you guys only trained little over the years, thus you can't reach your full potential with just that. With my training, you will. It will be a long journey, but I'm positive that you can become stronger in no time." he smiled as he saw the excitement in their eyes. He noted that Erza and Mirajane had looked at each other and nodded while Gray clenched his fist as a smirk made its way toward his face. Probably from the possibility of catching up to him, "I see you're fired up. Then, the training will start tomorrow morning after your body had significantly recovered."
With that, the four returned to the Resort. Natsu frowned in focus. He had a month to make them as strong as possible, even if he had to use some of the brutal methods he used on himself years ago. They didn't have much time before Laxus made his move and Natsu couldn't even predict what that damn bolt bastard was planning.
He only hoped Ultear will be able to extract some information.
*Flashback: A Few Days Ago*
One afternoon, Natsu left his Friends and headed towards his room. Quickly fetching the Communication Lacrima, he channeled his magic into it and contacted the Guild. At first, it was Wakaba who answered. Quickly dismissing the old pervert, he asked for Makarov.
"Yo, old man!" Natsu asked as he sat in front of the communication Lacrima. On the other side of the orb was the face of Makarov. Natsu noted in amusement that the old man was drunk as hell, judging by the drunken blush on his face and the empty bottle he held in his hand.
"Ah, Natshuu! How are you and the other bratsh?" Makarov completely ignored the question as he slurred slightly. Natsu chuckled at this.
"So, old man, is Laxus in town by any chance?" he asked and inwardly smirked as the old man suddenly become sober at the mention of his grandson.
"Why are you asking about that now?" All traces of drunkenness from Makarov's face disappeared as he stared at the pink-haired boy with a hardened stare.
The Dragon Slayer wouldn't admit out loud, but the stare of Gramps always terrified him in the future. Even now, it still sent a shiver down his spine, "It's.. Nothing. I'm just curious that's all." he lied and sweated nervously as the old man took some moments to study him. Finally, he almost face faulted when Makarov returned to his drunken state and laughed like nothing happened.
"YOHOHOHO!" Makarov laughed as he suddenly began to gulp a bottle of sake, "Any-!" he was cut off as many bodies slammed into him, almost burying him.
"Is that Natsu?!"
"Ohhh?! Let us talk to him!"
"How is Mira-chan doing!"
"Hey! Only men should ask for his sister!"
"Did you gained weight lately, Cana?!"
"What?! You damn bastard!"
"Hehehe..." Natsu laughed as he watched the chaos break into the Guild. Chairs and bodies were thrown and he was completely forgotten. He quickly cut off the communication and channeled his magic into it again. It took some moments before a pale but extremely beautiful face appeared.
"Natsu?"
"Ultear! I have a favor to ask." he cheerfully stated with a grin as he began to talk with the pale skinned beauty.
Though, he never noticed the small doll on the ceiling as it sipped into the shadows.
*End Of Flashback*
To his slight shock, Ultear's response came fast. He always knew the woman was very intelligent and did her work flawlessly, but to get an information such as that in such a short amount of time was nothing short of amazing. Needless to say, his admiration and love for the pale skinned beauty grow tenfold. From what she told him, he understood that Laxus had moved the day of the attack. Instead of in a few days, he decided to attack two months later. It shocked the Dragon Slayer. Why would he do that? Was it because of him? Was his power the cause of the changes that appeared in this Timeline?
Natsu didn't have the answer to those question, but it was a good opportunity for his friends to grow stronger with his guidance. Judging from the immense Magical power he felt from Laxus that day he tried to strike Lucy, things weren't going to the same as in his Timeline, which caused him to want to train his friends a little for one month.
*The Following Morning*
"Are you guys ready for the first day of your training?" Natsu asked cheerfully as he gazed at the five mages in front of him. Lucy, Mirajane, Erza, Gray and even Seilah were standing in front of him. The first four were having a serious case of headaches since they had partied all night long yesterday, despite his telling them that he will wake them up early in the morning. The girls weren't hard to wake up. Though, Gray proved to be difficult, thus forcing Natsu to send a small fireball on the Ice Mage's behind.
Needless to say, Gray regretted ever sleeping in the nude.
"It's too early for this shit..." Mirajane grumbled as she wiped the sleep from her eyes. She wasn't pleased when her cuddling time with Natsu was interrupted. Erza nodded as she stretched like a cat. Natsu smirked as he remembered that Erza was adamant on brushing her hair before going out. It didn't go unnoticed that the Red haired mage started to act more... Girly after that night they spent.
"Aye! You guys are way too lazy!" Happy cheered as he munched on a fish.
"How came you're awake now?" Lucy asked the cat, raising a brow. She actually got used to things like this as Natsu always barge into her apartment every morning to wake her up.
"Well, an endless supply of fish and Happy will follow you even to hell." Natsu nonchalantly stated, causing them to sweat drop.
"Aye Sir!"
"Damn cat..." Gray grumbled out loud, still massaging his butt.
"Alright, Listen!" Natsu loudly announced, almost making them jump at the commanding tone he was using, "I know you are ready to get this started, but I must tell you that the training I'm about to put you through is going to push you to your limits! You will feel as if you were dying a thousand times over, and been through hell a million times over, you will bleed, you will cry but you are not allowed to ever give up! We have a month to whip into being as awesome as possible. We won't succeed, but to make you strong enough I need to put you through this. So, I shall only say this once, Are you ready?"
He smiled as they nodded with determination swirling into their eyes, "Then wear those." he requested requiping some clothes in his hands and handed them to the five. The others looked in confusion but didn't question as they slipped the clothes on.
The girls' outfits consisted of navy blue and gold skin-tight suits. Reaching up to their necks, the suits had golden borders that separate the darker and lighter parts of the suits from each other. Black straps encasing their wrists and legs. They completed the suits with black boots. There was a small difference in Erza's suit as Her right arm was encased in golden armor. The girls looked at the outfits with appreciation in their eyes. Natsu licked his lips as he saw the curves of the girls. The outfit did nothing to hide their voluptuous bodies from his undeserving eyes.
"Oi..." Gray began as he got the attention of the group. They looked at him, only to almost face fault as they saw his outfit. He had a navy blue vest on and straps on his wrists and ankles, completing the outfit with black boots. The only other clothing he had on was his boxers.
"HAHAHAHA!" Mira couldn't hold it as she burst out laughing at the ridiculous outfit he wore. The others could only look in disbelief. Gray's whole body twitched.
"What the hell, Flame-brain?!" he roared St the Pinkette who only looked at him in deadpan.
"That's the only thing I could think of." he said, still looking at him in deadpan.
"Aye Sir! You always strip, so Natsu didn't want to give you an outfit!" Happy exclaimed cheerfully as he raised his paw in the air.
"That's actually a... Convincing argument." Seilah said as she sweat dropped.
"Right." Natsu chuckled before he completely turned serious, "We will now start." he declared, snapping his fingers, small waves of magic flickered front the outfits the five wore.
Then their eyes widened when they felt hit the floor on both knees's as an immeasurable amount of weight pressed down all around their bodies. Erza and Mirajane, and Seilah being the strongest were on one knee, trying their best to not fall down from the weight. Gray and Lucy weren't so lucky as they fell on all Fours, having a very hard time maintaining the position.
''Gah! W-what is this?!'' Gray asked in anger which Natsu merely waved his hand. The others just stared up at him, sweat began to coat their faces and some of their exposed skin.
''Weights." he simply answered which caused them to look at him with wide eyes, he just smirked in response, "The clothing I gave you were specially made for your training the material was woven to resist all types of elemental damage, but it's the weights I put in that will be helping your training. They react accordingly to how much physical strength, endurance, speed and agility you currently have, and grow to the exact weight you can handle, but not enough to hamper your growth. They will continue to grow heavier as your training progresses, and as an addition, you cannot ever take them off unless you're to take a shower or going to sleep.'' he said making Natsu stare at him with shock," The weights are embedded into the straps on your wrists and the boots. As for you Gray, the weight is on the vest and boots along with the straps." The five looked down at themselves and started to stand up albeit with much effort.
"Then, why all those outfits?" asked Lucy as she couldn't understand why they would need the suit if the weights were on the straps and the boots. Though, she liked it.
At the lack of response, Mirajane shot Natsu a seductive smile, "I bet he just wanted to ogle at us~!" she purred, and Erza with Lucy covered their breasts with their arms, avoiding Natsu's eyes.
Shrugging his shoulders, Natsu commented, ''Maybe. Anyway, currently, I estimate you guys are currently at 250 pounds total, aside from you Seilah. If I have to guess, you are double their weights, but as I said that will increase as time passes. When you have reached a certain level I will take them off but that will be further down the road.'' he let out an amused chuckle as he saw the horror on their faces, even Seilah looked a little concerned, "We will start by some physical training before we move into your Magical training. By the way, I have placed magical canceling spells in the straps on your wrists, so every training will strain you even more." he allowed an evil smirk on his face as they sweated nervously. Damn, he didn't even start, "Now hop hop!"
*Twenty-five Days Later*
The Fairy Tail Mages would forever remember their times as Natsu's students as the most painful, exhausting, demoralizing period of their lives. Erza and Mirajane were shocked, unable to believe that this type of training was even possible. Seilah could only take it and stay silent. Even her training at Tartaros wasn't as hellish as this one. Just thinking about the endless days and nights obeying their slave driver of a Teacher was enough to make them want to puke. However, they wouldn't have given up a second of it.
The first ten days were simple enough. From 5:00 AM. to midnight, every day, The group were hammered on conditioning that would make Even the hardened warrior's beg for mercy went on for as long as there was light in the sky. Endless push-ups, pull-ups, laps all around the Island. All of them with time limits under threat of Natsu's Lightning Dragon Slayer Magic. Meals were supplied by the Resort's cooks who were always in tears from the amount of food the group could eat on daily basis.
After those ten days came their Magic training routine. He had let their Magical power flow out of their bodies after being unable to use it for ten days. To their surprise, their reserves of Magic increased slightly. It wasn't by much, but enough for them to feel it. Then it had been endless sparring, experimenting, and exercises. It consisted of them trying desperately to land a hit on Natsu. The Dragon Slayer made sure to make them use every ounce of Magical energy they had. He had explained that their reserves would increase if they empty it every day.
Granted, they still couldn't win, but they have seen progress. He didn't just make them fight, he tried to make them think, having then fight a more powerful and experienced fighter was making wonders to their training. He then focused on their Magics. For Erza, he tried to make the woman fight with a custom made sword that was ten times heavier than her usual ones. He even tried to make her send her slash into the air, which proved to be difficult even for someone as skilled as Erza. He also focused on Gray's Devil Slayer Magic. Trying to improve it as it still wasn't complete.
Lucy still had many flaws, but he was helping her fix them. He started to improve her Celestial Spirit Magic. He wanted her to came up with new ways to use it, which she complained about, but he wouldn't have any of it. He absolutely didn't know what the impossible was. He had Mirajane learn a new Form of Magic. He knew it would be difficult, not because of Mirajane's progress, but because of him not having a clue of how to learn that type of Magic, which the white haired demon questioned him, which he waved off. He didn't neglect her other Satan Souls though. As for Seilah, he had her try to improve the new form she was working on.
Natsu was so proud and Happy that he gave them five days off to enjoy. Promising that they will continue the training when they have free time. They have partied and laughed all the remaining days of their trip before the day they would return arrived. The group was approaching Magnolia slowly. They were actually very excited as they realized that the Building of their new Guild would be finished by now.
"I'm gonna miss those days..." Mirajane sighed dejectedly. Even though they were beaten by Natsu and his crazy training, still the days they spent there will surely stay in their memories for as long as they lived. Especially the days she spent with her lover. A sweet smile stretched her lips at that thought.
"Stop thinking about Natsu, you harlot." Erza hissed as she caught the dreamy expression on the white-haired beauty's face.
The look on Mirajane's face disappeared as quickly as it appeared and was replaced by an angry expression. She clashed her head against Erza's, "Ohhh? And what are you gonna do about it, huh! You fat bitch?!"
"Who are you calling a bitch, you shameless slut?!"
"They really act like you and Natsu, you know," Lucy said as she nervously walked beside Natsu, scared of the dark auras the two were letting off.
"I don't see it," Gray said as he unconsciously stripped out of his pants.
"Hey!" Lucy shouted at him as she saw what he was doing.
"Aye Sir! You should join him, Lugui!" Happy cheered as he laughed at the blonde.
"YOU DAMN CAT!"
Seilah sighed as she shook her head at their antics. Her eyes landed on her Natsu-sama, who looked forward with a hard stare, "Natsu-sama, what's wrong?" she softly asked, placing a hand on his shoulder. She almost bumped into him as he abruptly stopped. She looked up and was quite shocked at the stunned look he was sporting.
The others saw the Dragon Slayer stopping in his tracks. Mirajane and Erza let go of each other as they turned serious from the expression on Natsu's face. The group moved beside him and looked forward, wanting to see the cause of his shock. Only for their jaw to drop at what they saw.
Their city; Magnolia was in ruins. Everything was destroyed. Buildings were destroyed, pillars were on fire. Nothing was safe. Everything, but the newest Guild Building. It stood without a scratch on it. Natsu could only stare in shock, 'He.. Didn't..?!' he thought in shock. Realization hit him like a Lightning bolt, the date of the attack he received from Ultear was fake. It was only for him to be late!
"W-W-w-w…" Lucy was completely stunned as she covered her mouth with both hands. Happy was trembling in fear as he held onto Natsu's shirt.
"Magnolia..?!" Gray was vivid as he gazed at his once beautiful Town.
"Who... WHO DID THIS?!" Mirajane roared, her voice so loud that it could have made them deaf. Though, no one said a thing as they felt the same. Erza clenched her hands into fists, her teeth ground in anger.
"Natsu-sama." Seilah started but trailed off as she saw him shaking with his hair covering his eyes.
'How….dare he?!' he thought as his eyes turned into slits. He was close to letting his Dragon Slayer Magic out. The ground beneath him was already melting. Suddenly some voices were heard by the group and they radiated themselves for whatever was coming.
"I hear some voices there!"
"Is it one of those Fairy Tail's weaklings?"
"Let's go!"
The group prepared themselves for battle. Natsu already taking some steps forward. However, before they could do anything, a familiar voice shouted, "Card Dimension!" Suddenly, the group were trapped into others in another dimension inside some cards. The culprit then took the cards and ran into the direction of the Forest. As the person disappeared, a group of soldiers appeared where they once were and began to search for the source of the voices they heard. They were all wearing black uniforms and had masks on their faces. Every one of them had a weapon in hand. Some spears and others swords.
Inside Magnolia's forest, The group shouted in anger and frustration as they were caught. All but Natsu and Seilah, who could only guess who it was. After some minutes, the group was freed, falling onto their backsides. They angerly looked up to see who had imprisoned them, "Cana?!" Gray and Lucy exclaimed ad they saw the lush, wearing her usual pants and bikini top.
"What the hell, Cana?!" Mirajane shouted, referring to how she trapped them and didn't let them teach those bastards a lesson. The brown haired beauty just sighed as a painful expression crossed her face, causing them to look at her in slight shock as she always was cheerful. Natsu was the first to break the silence.
"Cana." his voice was deep and has a tint of dark in it, "What happened?" he asked, though, he had a pretty good idea of what really happened.
"Yeah! Who the hell did this to Magnolia?!" Gray shouted as he stood up. For once, he wasn't stripping, "Answer, damn it!" Cana sighed again and closed her eyes.
"It all happened so fast. Laxus and his personal body guards, the Thunder God Tribe had taken over Fairy Tail."
