The Galactic Knights: Third Dimensional War

Dragons Unleashed Arc

A/N: The battle continues, but as the Imperial Alliance struggles to secure the shrine, Yuuka makes her way into Barroth's shrine. As the situation worsens, can Natsu and Goku stop her in time? Or will another Ancient Lord emerge from their prison? Find out in chapter 78, "A Mother's Will."

Disclaimer: I do not own anything related to the Dragon Ball Z, Bleach, Naruto, Inuyasha, Fairy Tail, or One Piece.

*LB* = Line Break

Chapter 78: A Mother's Will

Yuuka grasps the knobs to the door, opening it slowly she feels a dreadful amount of energy emitting from the inside of the shrine. Stepping in, she notices another door further into the door. Unlike the first door, this door has a large seal pasted on the front.

It is here, the time for her to unleash the power she needs. The source her husband is looking for, but will never get. A beating I her ears getting louder as her hands begin to shake. Reaching for the seal, she sees a dark aura emit from the door.

Suddenly, a hand grasps her arm and tosses her across the room. Yuuka manages to flip herself and land on her feet. Glaring at the intruder, Yuuka notices two familiar figures stand between her and the shrine.

Tyson stand steps forward, his arms returning to the large sleeves.

"Queen Yuuka. I'm afraid I must decline your wish to break the seal." Tyson emits a small amount of energy. "This seal shall remain where it stands."

"Prime Minister, I don't think I asked your permission." Yuuka stands up straight. "I kindly ask you to step aside."

"As his empress, I rather him stay where he is." Mei steps forward, her chakrams in hand.

"Mei, step out of the way." Yuuka raises her kujang, ready to attack. "I have no quarrel with you my friend."

Mei sighs, her heart heavy at facing Yuuka. "I meet you a few years ago. Your kingdom was new and upcoming. I was glad to be your friend. To show you everything I could to be a strong ruler. Now look, you have allowed your kingdom to join the forces of darkness. Please, your actions will only cause further death and destruction. You still have time to change your life. To make it more than this."

Mei sees Yuuka's expression fall, but only for a second.

"My life is already over." Mei frowns at Yuuka's words. "But you are right in one thing. There is a chance for someone to live pass all this. My daughter, Rin. She will live and unleashing Barroth will help me achieve that!"

A large amount of energy erupts from Yuuka. She charges forward, appearing in front of Mei and Tyson in seconds. Gathering energy into her right arm, she swings her kujang, but Mei reacts quick enough, blocking the attack.

A boom occurs seconds later, the entire area shaking at the raw power between the two women. Suddenly, beams of solar energy surround the two. Mei jumps back to the only opening before it seals off. Looking around, Yuuka sees Tyson holding his hand out.

"Sorry, but this ends now."

Yuuka digs her feet into the ground as Tyson closes his hands. The beams soar towards the queen as she raises her weapon into the air.

Rounds of explosions occur, rocking the area wildly. Mei shields her eyes, debris flying everyone. Soon enough, the noise quiets down, chips of rocks still falling from above. Looking around, Mei tries to find the body of Yuuka, but instead finds a dome made of rock. It makes a complete sphere with numerous rough edges for added protection. Cursing to herself, Mei realizes Yuuka formed a rock barrier in time for the explosions.

"We'll need to break through to reach…." Tyson stops fanning his war fan. "No, she wouldn't stand still for us to attack."

Tyson jumps back, gathering energy around him, aiming his war fan towards the ground below them. After Mei jumps away, Tyson unleashes a barrage of solar attacks upon the ground, causing large explosions while breaking apart the ground.

"Damn!" Tyson tries turning around, only for a slash across his side to send him hurling towards the ground. He slams into the ground, his whole body going numb and his vision blurring for a few seconds.

"Impressive, you know where to aim." Yuuka lands on the ground.

Suddenly, a clash of two blades occurs as Mei attempts to end the battle with a surprise attack, but Yuuka blocks it in time.

"I've gained new powers beyond your understanding." Yuuka begins to push Mei back. "Five years ago, I would have been no match. Today, I can challenge you without effort!"

Sweat begins to roll down Mei's face, the muscles in her arms beginning to burn. She tries pushing Yuuka back, but soon realizes her efforts are in vain. She cannot budge Yuuka at all, something she should be able to do with ease. It appears Yuuka is right, she has gain a power beyond her understanding, but at what cost?

"Yuuka, I saw so much potential." Their weapons continue to screech against each other. "Now I must end you before you make a huge mistake."

Mei jumps back, thrusting two fingers up. A wave of lava erupts beneath Yuuka as Mei lands safely a good distance away. Grasping her chakrams harder, Mei begins to gather energy while keeping her eyes open to the surrounding area. She knows Yuuka could have easily dodge the lava attack, for she is too strong to fall to such a weak attack.

"Yuuka, I hope you understand. The Ancient Lords back will only bring death and destruction. How can you save your daughter when there won't be anything left of the universe?"

Mei turns around, blocking Yuuka's surprise attack.

"I won't let that happen." Yuuka disappears again, leaving Mei in the middle of battlefield alone.

"Neither will I." Mei continues to look around for Yuuka's next strike. This fight is far from over.

As Mei continues her fight with Yuuka, Goku clashes with Takeshi. The two warriors unleash a barrage of attacks, sending powerful shockwaves across the battlefield. Takeshi swings his bardiche, but Goku stops the attack, grabbing the weapon by its body. Electricity begins to spark around them, as both warriors try to gain the upper hand.

Sweat drips down Goku's forehead, his arms shaking with the tremendous force he is exerting against Takeshi. He notices Takeshi's equal sweat, his harsh breathing, and his weakening force. Slowly, but surely Goku is pushing Takeshi.

"Surrender." Goku emits a stronger aura. "You can't win."

"You understand nothing." Goku hears the roughness in Takeshi's voice as the man continues to hold his ground. "I cannot surrender, for Yuuka depends on me. She is at the shrine and for as long as she is there, I will continue to fight. I will never abandon her. I will give my life taking you with me!"

Goku's eyes widen, Takeshi unleashing further energy than before. He has to admit, the determination behind this man is great. Inwardly, Goku smiles. This man is not evil, for his purpose is pure. It is simply bad that he is on the wrong side.

Returning his attention to the fight, Goku jumps back, avoiding the powerful swing of Takeshi's attack, which destroys the entire field in front of him. Goku had hope to end this fight soon, but it is clear Takeshi is not going down anytime soon.

Ator roars as he struggles with Kulvak and Zlusog. The dragon clashes with the two beasts, slamming into Kulvak while swinging his tail at Zlusog. He feels Zlusog grab his tail and begin to pull, but the sounds of multiple explosions occur shortly after.

"Did you forget about us?" Conan flies above Zlusog in his dragon form, gathering fire in his mouth. He unleashes a narrator flame balls, forcing Zlusog to cover its face. Suddenly chunks of ice spears smash into the giant monster's side, forcing Zlusog to bend over and protect the spot.

"Go now!" Sean's voice rings through the area.

"Leave it to me!" Eliot appears from the sky, his sword aiming towards Zlusog, lightning forming around him.

In a second, Eliot slams into Zlusog, lightning bolts surging from the point of impact. Zlusog's roar of pain echoes through the battlefield.

Conan lands on the ground with Sean and Eliot appearing next to him shortly. He watches as electricity surrounds the shadow monster, keeping it in place.

Suddenly, the ground shakes as Kulvak appears behind them, ready to attack. It opens its hand, as misty waves of cloud shoot towards the Elite Guards.

Conan, Sean, and Eliot move around, avoiding the mist as much as possible.

"Keep your energy up!" Conan watches as a piece of the mist evaporates a large boulder into nothingness.

As they continue to dodge, the ground shakes again, four chunks of rock forming beneath Kulvak before launching straight into the beast's abdomen.

Conan notices the mist disappear, the spell breaking due to Kulvak's distraction. He sees Wu appear over Kulvak, unleashing a barrage of energy attacks.

Suddenly, Ator appears, biting into Kulvak's neck, causing the shadow monster to roar in pain.

"Gather!" Conan gazes around him.

Shortly after, Sean, Eliot, and Wu land next to Conan, their bodies weary from the fight.

"We need to end this now." Conan breathes out. "We are exhausting ourselves and there are too many enemies on the battlefield."

"And how do you think we'll do that?" Sean raises an eyebrow.

Conan smirks, watching as Zlusog returns to the battle, attacking Ator. The dragon sweeps it tail at the shadow monster, knocking it down.

"Here is my plan."

Ator rams into Kulvak unleashing fire and lightning around himself, burning the shadow werebull. Zlusog roars as it jumps on Ator, trying to smash the dragon with its large fists. Ator manages to push Zlusog off him as he turns around, only to see Kulvak's hand inches away from his face. Deciding to fly up, Ator creates the distance he needs from the two shadow monsters, quickly noticing the chunks of ice beginning to form around their legs. He notices Sean placing his hands on the ground as an endless wave of ice spurts from his arms.

The two giant beasts attempt to move towards Sean, but chunks of earth slam into them, preventing their movements. Wu is near Sean, but a decently behind. He swings arms forward, unleashing a barrage of boulders upon the two shadow monsters.

Suddenly, Conan and Eliot rush toward their enemy, fire and lightning surrounding them respectively. They stop just in front of Zlusog and Kulvak, the two giant beasts barely noticing them. In a split second, they unleash their attacks upon the shadow monster, enveloping them in flames and lightning.

Suddenly, a large figure appears behind Conan and Eliot, its massive wings spreading out. Ator shows himself, as he gathers energy into his mouth. He shoots a massive beam of energy, piercing through Kulvak and send the beast into the side of the mountain. Ator closes his mouth, gathering energy as he turns to Zlusog. He unleashes the same blast towards the other shadow monster, but Zlusog manages to sidestep the attack, its shoulder ripping apart due to the force of the attack.

Zlusog breaks apart the remaining ice around its feet before gazing at Kulvak and then turning to run.

Conan stops Sean from chasing the shadow monster as they turn to Kulvak. They see the beast's chest rising up and down slower with every second before stopping completely.

"Well, one's dead." Eliot sheaths his sword. "Too bad the other one got away."

"We should have chased it." Sean crosses his arms.

"It doesn't matter now. It is injured and incapable of fighting." Conan returns plus his human form. "Plus, we need to keep going."

"Agreed, let's go." Ator lands on the ground before starting towards the shrine.

Numerous explosions occur as Tonis flies across the battlefield, avoiding barrages of attacks. He stops after seeing Rhaviel charging into Lyth, pushing the dark dragon back. The two dragons keep themselves in a death grip as Rolando charges forward, unleashing numerous chunks of earth towards Lyth.

As the rock smack into Lyth's back, Leopold appears above swinging his spear forward. Soon, a wave of lava erupts beneath Lyth, beginning to swallow the dragon whole.

Using this chance, Rhaviel pushes Lyth further into the lava pool, but the dark dragon continues to hold its ground, beginning to push the dragon king back.

"Tonis!" Helena flies up to Tonis. "We need to finish this soon. We are all pushing ourselves to the limit."

"I know." Tonis gazes at the fight. We need to give Rhaviel an opening. Let's do this."

Helena nods at Tonis before following him as he takes off towards the fight.

In a few seconds, Tonis arrives above Lyth with Helena appearing next to him shortly after. The two warriors gather a large amount of energy before unleashing it upon Lyth. The attacks hit the beast head on, massive explosions showing the display of power from the married couple.

After stopping his attack, Tonis narrows his eyes noticing a piece of a wing swing through the smoke. Realizing what Lyth is doing, Tonis rushes to Helena, grabbing as they narrowly escape an energy ball from Lyth.

Tonis and Helena stop a decent distance away, but as they turn to face Lyth, the mighty dragon reaches their position quickly, forcing the two warriors to block its claw. The force of the attack sends them twirling towards the ground. Tonis wraps his arms around Helena as they land on the ground causing it to crack and break upon impact.

Grinding his teeth, Tonis tries to move, but his body refuses to do so. He sees a black figure fly above him, circling around like a vulture waiting to eat its prey. Soon Lyth lands above them, its teeth showing as it lowers its head.

"Tonis!" Leopold and Rolando stab their weapons into Lyth's back, causing the large dragon to roar in pain.

As Lyth tries to reach Leopold and Rolando, Rhaviel appears from above slamming into Lyth and biting the dark dragon's neck.

"Tonis? Are you ok?" Helena places her hand on his cheek.

Smiling at her, he confirms he is fine. Helena stands up and extends her hand to him. Tonis grabs it and is pull up to his feet. His body aches, but Tonis has had far worse falls before this.

Rhaviel flies over Tonis and Helena, heading towards Lyth. The dark dragon shoots an energy ball at Rhaviel, who dodges easily. Soon enough the two dragon collide as traces of lava and earth erupt from Lyth's back.

"Ready?" Tonis cracks his neck.

"Yeah." He hears behind him.

Suddenly Leopold and Rolando come crashing to the ground near them.

"Leopold! Rolando!" Helena rushes to them.

Tonis notices the two men moving. He knows they will be fine, though with many hurting body parts.

The sound of Rhaviel's pain roar echoes through the area. Lyth slams Rhaviel to the ground, its teeth near the dragon king's throat.

"Goodbye king of the dragons."

"Damn it!" Tonis begins to fly towards the two dragons, but stops the moment another dragon rams into Lyth, knocking the dragon away.

"Shamilth." Tonis sighs as he turns to Helena. "Are they okay?"

"We're fine." Leopold stands up with Rolando joining shortly.

"We need to strike now."

Everyone nods as they stand side by side, gathering energy. Tonis feels of rush of power, his muscles aching with the new surge of energy. Electricity begins to appear around the four warriors, their combine strength creating tremendous heat.

"Now!" Tonis and the others disappear before appear above Lyth instantly.

Lyth begins to turn upwards, but is too late to act. The Elite Guards unleash a barrage of attacks, slamming the dark dragon nonstop.

Rhaviel and Shamilth appear through the after smoke, just as Tonis and the others stop their barrage. Simultaneously, the king and queen launch attack in sync, forcing Lyth to the corner. As the dark dragon tries to counter, Tonis and Helena launch attack at it

Tonis, Helena, Leopold, and Rolando charge forward, unleashing barrage of attacks upon Lyth. Rhaviel and Shamilth appear in front of Lyth, both having gathered a large amount of energy. They unleash their attack, enveloping Lyth in a pool of power. The dragon roars in pain.

Appear at the distance, Tonis watches as Lyth rolls in pain. Soon, the energy wave ends as Kyth remain standing, its body torn and it head low.

A dark chuckle erupts from Lyth. It returns its gaze upward, staring at Tonis and the others. However, the dragon remains wordless, its body soon disappearing into the shadows.

"Did we kill it?" Leopold steps forward.

"No." Tonis massages his neck. "Lyth is pretty much alive. It decided to simply retreat."

Tonis watches as Rhaviel nuzzles Shamilth, the sounds of battle beginning to lessen.

"Look." Helena points towards the surrounding area. "Our enemy's ranks are beginning to thin out. We might win this."

"Too soon to tell." Tonis turns to the mountain. "We must go."

Inside the shrine, Mei and Yuuka continue their battle, exchanging blows at rapid speeds. Mei swings her chakrams, colliding with Yuuka's kujang.

"Yuuka, you must stop this." Mei digs her feet into the ground. "You'll only unleash power beyond anyone's control."

Mei clenches her teeth as Yuuka begins to push back. A chill runs through her body as a dark aura forms around Yuuka. Realizing the source of the power, Mei jumps back, avoiding the small burst of energy from Yuuka.

"Yuuka… that is the power of pure darkness." Mei shakes her head. "Why? How?"

"The Demonic Legion has begun to dig into the Crystals of Power they possess." Yuuka gazes at her hands. "I thought this would be enough, but Ryo still possess power beyond me. I need more."

"Yuuka, you fool." Mei takes a deep breath. This young queen is beyond her help, she sees that now. She must end this quickly before she delves deeper into the darkness.

Before Mei could power up, Yuuka appears before her, slamming the empress down to the ground. Pain surges through Mei's body, the feeling in her arms fading. Yuuka swings her kujang towards Mei's neck, but a blast of solar energy hits the queen on the back, sending her twirling across the caverns.

"Yuuka, you've made the mistake of ignoring me." Tyson waves his war fan. "My lady, do what you need to."

Tyson releases his war fan as it begins to float before him. A yellow and orange aura begins to surround him as colorful waves of energy surge through his body to his hands.

At the distance, Yuuka erupts from her temporary spot in the ground. Mei jumps back, gathering energy as she sees Tyson launch an array of solar beams towards Yuuka.

Taking a deep breath, Mei digs deep into her body, feeling a massive power dwelling inside her. Gazing at Yuuka, who has now met Tyson in close combat, she wonders if she could have saved the young queen. However, she pushes those thoughts out quickly, her need to protect her empire and her family filling her soul.

Seconds later, Mei erupts in power, causing the entire mountain to shake. She notices Yuuka slashing Tyson across the chest, causing the man to shout in pain. The attack sends him soaring towards the walls, but Mei acts quickly. Appearing in the path of Tyson's travel, she catches the warrior and sits him down almost instantly.

"Yuuka… you leave me no choice." Mei begins to step forward before stopping, as Tyson stands up as well. "Rest Tyson."

"I'm sorry my lady." Tyson shakes his head. "But I cannot let harm come to you. For the more you hurt, the more his majesty hurts as well."

Mei sighs, but allows him to continue in the fight. Keeping her stare on Yuuka, the two women size each other up. Simultaneously, they take a step forward before disappearing, leaving Tyson the lone man.

Seconds later, Mei and Yuuka clash in the center of the caverns, a large shockwave unleashing in force as a result. Licked in a clash of strength, they try overpower one another, but neither budge.

At the corner of her eye, Mei sees Yuuka jump and swing a kick towards her. She jumps back to avoid the leg, landing a small distance away, but Yuuka closes that gap quickly. Appearing in front of Mei, Yuuka swings her kujang at the empress, but Mei lifts her chakram, deflecting the attack before thrusting one of her own. However, Yuuka blocks it and moves to the side, causing Mei to lose her balance.

Realizing her situation, Mei tries to counter, but it is too late. Yuuka slashes Mei across her abdomen, slamming her to the ground hard. Luckily, her armor absorbs the impact of a lethal strike, but force still bruises her.

Suddenly, Yuuka jumps back as beams of solar energy shoot through her previous location.

"My lady, stand up!" Tyson raises his hand as a ball of energy appears above him. Dancing with the wind, beaks of solar energy erupt from the ball, aiming at Yuuka forcing her to dodge around.

Grumbling, Mei struggles to stand up, fighting against the pain around her stomach. After doing so, she ignores the pain as she rushes forward appearing near Yuuka as she dodges another beam. She swings her chakram, but once again Yuuka blocks the attack. The two warriors exchange a series of blows before Mei ducks below, a beam of energy flying above her and connecting with Yuuka directly. The results is a large explosion as Yuuka goes crashing across the ground.

At the last second, Yuuka thrusts herself back up, landing on one knee. Mei appears before again, swinging her chakram. She curses as Yuuka jumps to the left, bit not before being cut off by Tyson. Mei follows closely, as she and Tyson begin to attack Yuuka simultaneously.

Yuuka ducks below before tackling Tyson. Mei tries to catch up, but Yuuka lifts her leg causing Mei to ram herself to the heel of her foot. As her breath leaves her temporarily, she feels a barrage of attacks strike her across her front. She tries to scream in pain, but her voice seems gone, the pain excruciating.

As Mei steps back, she feels someone behind her before a blade presents itself at her neck.

"Mei!" Tyson attempts to move forward, but stops.

"Do not move!" Mei feels the blade press slightly harder, a trickle of blood running down her throat. "I'll kill her if you move further."

Mei knows she cannot move as Yuuka will slit her throat long before she can take action.

"Mei, I'm sorry, but you should have never fought against me." Yuuka releases pressure as she move to slice Mei's throat.

"No!" Tyson rushes forward.

"Fool." Yuuka slams her foot to the ground as an earth spike pierces Tyson's abdomen, stopping him in his tracks.

"Tyson!" Mei struggles, but cannot move due to Yuuka's hold on her.

"Goodbye, my friend." Yuuka moves again to end Mei's life, but a fiery fist slams her in the cheek causing her to release her hold on Mei.

Mei reacts quickly, allowing herself to fall back, the blade narrowly missing her head. Her head smacks the ground, causing her vision to blur for a bit before refocusing.

"Natsu?"

Natsu stands where Yuuka was a moment ago, his fists ablaze.

"Mei, grab Tyson and go. I've got this." Natsu slams his fist to an open palm.

He sees Mei ready to argue, but he narrows his eyes, causing the empress to remain quiet. Shortly after, he returns his glare to Yuuka, who just stands back up.

"Another willing to die I see." Yuuka massages her cheek. "I'll ask you this once. Please leave and I won't kill you."

"Nope." Natsu cracks his neck. "I'm kicking your ass."

"Such vulgar." Natsu notices Yuuka staring at him up and down. "Natsu, one of the Galactic Knights. I wonder how someone such as you can even have a high rank. You're no leader, your social skills are horrible. So why?"

"Don't care." Natsu enters a fighting stance. "I'm going to stop you. That's all that matters."

"Straight to the point. I'll give you that."

Natsu takes a deep breath, fire around his hands dancing around his skin. In an instant, he charges at Yuuka appearing before her in second.

"What?" Yuuka steps back, trying to create distance.

Natsu swings his fist, but Yuuka ducks below. She counters with a swing of her kujang, but Natsu jumps back, gathering a large breath. He unleashes a stream of fire, forcing Yuuka to dodge the attack. As he feet touch the ground, Natsu digs his heel into dirt, cracking it with tremendous force. He launches himself toward Yuuka, unleashing a barrage of punches. Yuuka dodges each attack, countering ever so often with a swing of her blade. Natsu sidesteps each attack before continuing is assault.

Yuuka thrusts her blades forward, as Natsu intertwines his wrists with hers before knocking her arms outward. Creating the opening he needs, Natsu closes the gap, sending his fist into Yuuka's abdomen. Upon impact, a rather strong shockwave erupts from the attack. Natsu follows up with another punch to the face, the sizzling of his heated hands touching Yuuka's cheek being loud. The punch causes Yuuka to stumble as Natsu rushes forward, beginning a barrage of punches, each hit connect with its target. With every hit, the sounding smack occurs as the caverns shake with Natsu's raw power.

Natsu drops to his hand and swings his body around, his feet knocking Yuuka over. As Yuuka's head slams into the ground, Natsu jumps into the air, two strains of fire erupting from his hands. Natsu lifts his hands and thrusts downward, his whips smacking Yuuka head on. The force of the attack sends Natsu forward, but he easily twists his body and lands on his feet. Meanwhile, a large explosion occurs at Yuuka's location. A large wall of fire enveloping the point of impact.

Taking a breath, Natsu stands up straight narrowing his eyes at the wall of fire. It begins to die down, the illuminating light going with it. Taking a sniff, Natsu turns to the left, grabbing Yuuka's wrists before she could cut him half.

"I see. You are powerful." Yuuka and Natsu continue to struggle. "I must use more power."

Yuuka shouts as the dark aura surrounds her further.

"My daughter depends on me!" Natsu clenches his teeth as he feels Yuuka begins to push him back. "I will not let some third world warrior stop me from protecting her!"

Realizing her raw strength, Natsu releases Yuuka and jumps back as the Yuuka's weapons slam into the ground, causing it to crack drastically.

"You should have never come." Yuuka lifts her weapons, her body waving back and forth.

Sweats begins to drip down Natsu's forward. The power from Yuuka is insane. He knows she is using power beyond her capabilities, but it is clear he cannot beat her without using more power of his own. Taking a deep breath, Natsu digs into his reserve, feeling the massive power he keeps within him.

Seconds later, he unleashes his dragon force, the ground shaking slightly from his raw power.

"So you have a little power up. It changes nothing." Yuuka steps forward, entering a battle stance.

Natsu narrows his eyes before taking a step forward and disappearing altogether.

"What? How?" Yuuka clenches her forward, looking down slowly.

Natsu had lunch her in the stomach, his flames continuing to the dance around him. Before she could react, Natsu jumps up and punches her across the face, a small shockwave shooting out.

After staggering Yuuka, Natsu rushes forward unleashing a barrage of punches upon her. At the last punch, Yuuka allows herself to tumble back, causing Natsu to miss a punch and lose balance. Yuuka slams her hands to the ground, raising her feet before kicking Natsu across the abdomen.

Natsu coughs as the force of the attack sends him soaring into the wall of the caverns. He quickly falls to the ground, clenching his stomach he struggles to breathe. Coughing badly, Natsu shakes his head as he regain air into his lungs. His ears perk up, the sound of feet getting closer to him. The dragon slayer gazes up as the feet approach him rapidly.

With amazing speed, Natsu launches himself up, a pillar of flames erupting around him. He sees Yuuka stopping her charge before disappearing. Turning around, Natsu grabs Yuuka's wrist leaving the blades inches from Natsu's face.

Natsu thrusts Yuuka's blade away and swings his fist towards her face only to stop as Yuuka uses her other blade to slash Natsu across the chest. The blade breaks skin causing a good amount of blood to drip from the wound as Natsu roars back grabbing his chest.

Yuuka appears before him unleashing a large energy blast hitting Natsu head on. A large explosion occurs as Natsu soars across the cave before hitting the ground harshly and rolling across.

Grinding his teeth, Natsu forces himself up, the wound across his chest throbbing. He places his hands on the ground, kneeling as feet stop before him.

"I warned you." Yuuka's voice is not as harsh as before. "Yet you continued struggling. Fighting because of your stupid pride."

"Pride?" Natsu looks at Yuuka, narrowing his eyes. "I'm not here for some damn pride."

Without effort, Natsu stands up as Yuuka steps back. Her eyes widen at the aura surrounding Natsu.

"I'm here to fight for those I care about. To fight for my friends. To fight for my family!"

Natsu clenches his fist as Yuuka enters a battle stance, her movements slow.

"How? That aura." Sweat drips down Yuuka's face.

A sudden crashing noise stops the tension between Natsu and Yuuka. They look around as chunks of rock crumble from above, the entire cavern shaking. In a split second, the ceiling collapses, the chunks of rock falling down quicker. Natsu and Yuuka jump back, avoiding the center of the collapse.

In the center of the room, Goku and Takeshi stand in a deadlock. Goku continues to hold Takeshi's arms as Takeshi tries to split Goku in half. Goku sidesteps the attack and then punches Takeshi in the face, sending the warrior twirling into the cavern wall.

Natsu inhales deeply as he notices Goku looking around.

"Oh Natsu! Did you win?" Goku smiles as he waves his hand.

Natsu points at Yuuka, as Goku nods his head.

"I admit, you're stronger than I thought." Takeshi stands up, grabbing his bardiche.

"You can't beat me. Just give up." Goku clenches his fist, also keeping his senses on alert.

"Takeshi." Yuuka approaches the man. "Too much time has passed. We must end this quickly together."

Goku walks up to Natsu, who waves his arms in circles stretching them. Noticing the rapid increase of energy, Goku leans towards Natsu.

"They're about to go all out."

"I know." Natsu flares his nostrils. "Let's kick their asses."

Natsu slams his fist into his open hand, noticing Goku's nod.

Small pieces of rock begin to lift from the floor, the ground itself starting to shake. Natsu can feel the hairs on his skin to spike up as if electricity fills the room. Yuuka and Takeshi are about to throw everything they have. He and Goku will have to be ready.

"Let's end this." Takeshi steps forward, his foot slamming into the ground, causing it to crack under the immense pressure releasing from him.

Goku reacts and moves forward. The two warriors clash again, a large shockwave scattering around them. Goku clenches his teeth as he holds Takeshi's arms, preventing his bardiche from slashing the saiyan in two.

"You will not beat me Goku!" Takeshi knees Goku before swinging his bardiche downward.

Goku unleashes a small blast, propelling himself out of harm's way. Seconds later, he sends another blast towards Takeshi, who deflects it with ease.

Suddenly, a figure appears behind him, causing Goku's eyes to widen. A female voice shouts as Yuuka hits Goku in the back with a large blast. She charges forward swinging her kujang quickly. Goku tries to react, dodging the attacks as best as he can.

"Hey!" Natsu kicks Yuuka squarely across the face. The force of the attack sends her tumbling to the ground, her face leaving a rather decent impression in the earth.

His ears perking up, Natsu turns around just to see Takeshi swing his blade. Dodging quickly, Natsu sidesteps the attack and launches an uppercut at Takeshi. However, the warrior smiles, as he grabs Natsu's fist and swings him over himself.

Hitting the ground hard, Natsu's mouth opens, his voice lost on him as blood splutters out. His vision slightly impaired, he gazes upward as Takeshi stands over him, readying his weapon again. Takeshi swings down, but in a last desperate effort, Natsu summons fire in his hands, enveloping himself and Takeshi in a wall of fire.

Takeshi jumps back, the flames continuing to burn on him.

"Bastard!" Natsu can see Takeshi's rage through his visible eyes.

Suddenly, the flames around him begin to disperse as Takeshi begins to summon his own fire.

"Let's see you burn in hell!" Takeshi sends a ball of fire at Natsu, who smirks.

In a big suction of air, Natsu swallows the flames until nothing remains.

"What?" Takeshi clenches his teeth. "How?"

Slamming his fist together, Natsu breathes out deeply, feeling the new surge of strength flow through him.

"You can't touch with your flames! I'll just eat them up!"

"Tch. So you can eat fire. Fine, then I'll kill you with my blade!"

Seconds later, Takeshi appears in front of Natsu, surprising the dragonslayer. He punches Natsu on the face before slashing him across the chest.

Grunting in pain, Natsu steps back, blood dripping from his wound. He receives a kick to the abdomen, as Takeshi knocks him down.

"Time to di…" Takeshi turns as Goku thrusts a punch. "Seriously, out of the way!"

Goku launches a serious of attacks, forcing Takeshi away from Natsu. The two warriors clash throughout the cave as one try to gain the upper hand over the other. Suddenly, chunks of earth slams into Goku's head.

"Begone!" Yuuka grabs Goku from behind and lifts him off the ground, surprising the saiyan. She slams him to the ground as she flips herself over and tries to impale him with her blades.

Goku curls up and double kicks Yuuka on her face. The attack forces her off Goku as the saiyan jumps back, but before he has the chance to land, Takeshi slams a blast into his face, causing a large explosion. Goku jumps back, his face burning due to the blast.

Yuuka lands next to Takeshi, massaging her face. The two warriors charge forward, as Goku enters a battle stance. They appear on each side of him unleashing a barrage of attacks upon the saiyan.

Yuuka steps back as Natsu swings a punch but misses her head. Soon after, Natsu's eyes widen as Takeshi's fist slams into his face sending the dragonslayer straight to the ground.

"Hey!" Goku punches Takeshi in the gut, his armor cracking under the high pressure.

"Argh!" Takeshi steps back, trying to catch his breath.

Goku appears above him kicking the warrior to the ground. In a split second he turns around just in time to catch Yuuka's blades.

"So stubborn! Just give up already!"

"Never!" Natsu appears behind her, his fist meeting her lower back.

"Yuuka!" Takeshi rushes forward.

Yuuka grinds her teeth as she launches herself back. Her head smacks Natsu in the face while her feet kick Goku in the stomach.

Goku clenches his teeth as he jolts back. Takeshi appears in front of him and slashes him across the chest. Shouting in pain, Goku tries to step back. Takeshi unleashes a blast to the ground, causing a large cloud of dust. Goku raises his arms to block Takeshi's next attack, but Yuuka appears to his left, slashing Goku on his back. Takeshi appears in front, grabbing Goku by his face and slamming the saiyan to the ground.

Natsu appears above, trying to free Goku, but Yuuka kicks him away and then summons two chunks of earth squishing Natsu between them.

Takeshi lifts Goku and tosses him to Natsu causing the chunks of rock to break apart.

"Crap that hurt!" Natsu coughs as blood drips from the side of his mouth and forehead.

Goku tries to lift himself, shaking his head of the dizziness soaring through it.

Yuuka and Takeshi charge forward, readying to finish off the two fighters. Takeshi swings himself around unleashing a wall of fire. The fire disappears just as quickly as it appeared.

"Natsu get up!" Goku stands up as quickly as he can despite the pain.

"I am!" Natsu follows suite, his entire body protesting at the movement.

Suddenly, the ground shakes as their two opponents erupt from below. In seconds, the four fighters engage in a contest of quick blows. Their battle shakes the cavern around them, small pieces of rock falling the already broken ceiling.

Goku launches an attack at Yuuka, but she steps back allowing Takeshi to block it instead. She jumps over him aiming her blades at Goku, but Natsu jumps up kicking her in the side.

Clenching her teeth, Yuuka grabs Natsu and uses his momentum to toss him back down. Takeshi rushes forward, slamming into Natsu before grabbing him again and tossing him across the battlefield.

Goku gathers energy into his hands before launching it towards Yuuka and Takeshi, forcing them to dodge.

Meanwhile, Natsu stands up from his impact location dusting off the dirt. He clenches his hands, fire erupting around him, his eyes narrowing like a dragon's. He charges forward gathering a deep breath before unleashing a massive wave of fire.

Takeshi catches the flames and reflects it to Goku, who stops his attacks and jumps back. However, he only meets Yuuka, who unleashes a barrage of attacks upon the saiyan.

"Perish!" Yuuka launches a large energy blast, swallowing Goku in the attack.

A large explosion occurs as Natsu tries to find Goku. He stops looking at Yuuka and Takeshi appear on his sides.

"All alone Natsu." Yuuka raises her blades. "One last chance. Surrender."

"Never!" Natsu enters a battle stance. "You aren't the only one fighting for their friends and family! I can't let you win!"

"Tch. Such a foolish boy." Yuuka nods her head in disappointment. "Even when outmatched, you still try to fight."

"And you are a fool to think we will lose so easily." Natsu smirks causing Yuuka and Takeshi to narrow their eyes.

"What do you…" Takeshi stops mid-sentence.

"Meee!"

Takeshi eyes widen as he turns around to see Goku behind him, a large blue light emitting from the palms of his hands.

"How did you…"

"Haaaaaaaaaa!" Goku unleashes the Kamehameha, enveloping Takeshi in the blast completely.

"Takeshi!" Yuuka tries rushing to Takeshi, but Natsu appears in front of her, flames covering his right fist.

"Nope!" Natsu uppercuts Yuuka, a blanket of fire surrounding the queen.

The attack sends Yuuka crashing to the cavern walls creating a large crater.

"Damn." Natsu shakes his head.

"You ok?" Goku lands next to him.

"Yup. Just catching my breath."

Both stop as they see Yuuka stand back up. She struggles to maintain her balance, but sheer determination forces her up.

"I can't stop." Yuuka glares at Natsu and Goku. "I am so close. So damn close."

"They won't help." Natsu glares right back at her. "Those Ancient Lords guys will only kill you and your daughter. They won't save her."

"Enough!" Yuuka blasts Natsu and Goku away with surprising power.

Natsu slams into the wall. He tries to get up, but the rocky wall envelopes him like a living creature. He notices Goku struggling, trying to blast away the chunks.

Grunting, Natsu continues to struggle against the moving rock. He soon notices Yuuka approaching the shrine slowly. She stops in front of it, opening the small doors.

"They won't save your daughter!" Natsu shouts as rocks begin to cover his mouth.

Yuuka sees the seal in front of her, yet it seems like forever before she gathers the insight to reach for it. Her hand stops at the top of the seal, shaking stronger with each second passed.

A slight glimmer brings her mind back to the world. She glances down to her armor, where pieces were broken during the battle. She reaches for the glimmer and takes out the necklace that remains intact.

"Rin…"

It was so many years back, her daughter was only six years old. It was this moment that finally caused her to look beyond her own pain. The pain of her child.

Yuuka held her daughter close. Tears still running down Rin's cheeks with a red mark on her right cheek.

"Why did daddy hit me? Why?" Rin clenched her arms around her torso.

Biting her lips, Yuuka did not respond. What words could she give her daughter? Sighing, Yuuka grabbed a small bottle. Inside was an odd smelling ointment. She took a small amount and placed it upon Rin's cheek. The mere touch caused the young girl to wince, but soon the numbness of the ointment caused the pain to fade away.

"Are we living like this?" Rin's low voice almost caused Yuuka to miss her question. "Will daddy hurt me?"

Before she knew it, tears of her own began to travel down her cheeks. Yuuka took the punishments from Ryo from the day she was forced to marry him. However, that anger has now been directed towards Rin, her own daughter.

"No." That one word had the strongest conviction behind it, something Yuuka never had before. "I promise to make a better life for you, no matter the cost."

"Thank you, mommy." Rin smiled, bringing Yuuka to hold her close. "I love you mommy."

Her hand remains on the seal, just a small pull would release the monster behind it.

"Rin…" Yuuka tries to control her shaking, yet she is unable to will herself to pull the seal.

A small explosion alerts Yuuka to the cavern walls.

"Would she want this?" Natsu breathes heavily. "Is death what your daughter wants! To see her own mother, kill everything off! If you need help for something, then I will help you!"

Yuuka's eyes widen at his statement. Her hand loses its grip on the seal.

"Why?" Yuuka clenches her teeth. "All I have done is kill your comrades! I have caused this land great pain! Why would you go out of your way to help me? Your enemy!"

"Because no one deserves to suffer." Natsu gazes upon Yuuka's eyes. "I'll be your friend. And I'll save your daughter."

Her jaw shuddering, Yuuka clenches her necklace. Besides Takeshi, nobody else has ever offered their help before. Her tears run down her cheeks uncontrollably. This man has given her a sense of hope she has never felt before. She does not understand how. She does not know him. She has tried to kill him today. Yet, those eyes and the sincerity of his voice has given her a sense of hope.

Before he knows it, Natsu feels himself falling to the ground. He manages to catch himself, as he catches a deep breath. To his left, he sees Goku landing on his hands and feet as well.

"Yuuka, we'll help you." Goku smiles as he stands up.

Natsu joins Goku as they approach Yuuka.

Suddenly, Natsu notices Goku rush long at him, but he sees a trail of smoke from Goku's left side.

"Crap." Goku smashes into Natsu, their bodies crashing to the cavern walls.

"Do you honestly intend to believe them?" Asea appears from Goku's previous location.

"Asea." Yuuka gazes at the genie.

"I promised you freedom and peace from your husband. Both for you and Rin." Asea smiles. "I cannot break the seal, but you can. So go, free the power you need."

Yuuka clenches her hands as she turns back to the seal. She continues to hold her necklace, repeating to herself the need to free the Ancient Lord. Soon, she and her daughter will be free.

In one quick move, Yuuka rips the seal off the shrine. For the first few seconds nothing happens, but soon a massive burst of power erupts from the shrine as it begins to crack.

"Now give me my power to free my daughter and I." Yuuka turns to Asea.

"Well, of course." Asea smiles. "Like I said, you'll be free and in peace. In the afterlife."

"What? That's not what you promised!" Yuuka raises her blades.

"Foolish woman. You should have been specific." Asea's smile turns into a smirk. "I'll reunite your daughter with you soon."

"You bitch!" A wave of energy erupts from Yuuka as she charges at Asea.

"Fool." Asea sidesteps the attack and with little effort unleashes a massive energy blast, enveloping Yuuka.

Natsu could hear the scream of Yuuka. Her voice shouting to the heavens before disappearing altogether.

Natsu and Goku stand up, their bodies aching a bit, but capable of continuing their fight.

"Well." Asea turns to the two knights. "I wish you a good day. You're going to need it."

In a flash, Asea disappears from the cave.

"She teleported!" Natsu points at her former location.

Goku makes an attempt to teleport, but only ends up a few feet away.

"That's something." Goku scratches his head.

A loud roar sounds through the area. The shaking increases, the walls beginning to crumble.

"We gotta go!" Goku grabs Natsu wrist and flies out of the cave.

"Hey!" Natsu face turns green.

Soon the knights land outside near the high point of the mountain.

Trying to catch his breath, Natsu shakes his head.

"We have to go!" Goku shouts to the allies outside.

Another roar sounds throughout the area. Natsu turns back slightly, two massive wings begin to cover the sky. Moments later a head begins to appear from within the mountain. Shivers run through his body, his arms shaking from the raw power of the beast behind him.

A monster of death has appeared.

*LB*

A/N: Thanks for reading. Until next time.