A/N: Hey guys!

After reading the reviews, I was very enthused about your feedback.

Yes, Lucy may find herself in situations where she may be seen as a damsel. But I wanted to develop her to where she retains some of the qualities that myself and fans love, while also making her character… something more. We've seen glimpses of her showoff a badass side and a backbone. That side deserves to be shown and I want it to be shown.

Natsu and Lucy's relationship is a growing relationship that has evolved into a budding romance. Fans are split regarding canon with regards to Natsu's love interest. To this day and for many days to come until 100YQ resolves everything, no fan will be in agreement over Natsu's pairing with Lucy or some other Fairy Girl. Fans will have their preferences, like myself. That's the fun thing about this and the site. We all get to have our shot and our take on Natsu's pairing with someone. So, why not take a shot at the pairing that gets the most notice? Especially since I have a bias. That said, I keep an open mind with Natsu being paired with another girl. At least over the years I developed a more open mind to the idea.

Anyways, months of trust building, brushes of physical contact and high intensity events (like Galuna and the Phantom War), have built their relationship up. Plus, they spend a lot of time together and also balance out time with the others as well. All in the span of months.

Lastly, Natsu's power now that he's trained in higher gravity. Look, power scaling is a pain. That said, there are certain parties that want to see Natsu Dragneel defeated. Or in weird cases, they want to see Natsu stronger (we kind of know who at this point). Which means… stronger villains. How? You'll find out in this Arc. And in the subsequent Arcs that follow.

So, first hot take. We need more react fics. I would very much like to see Fairy Tail react to such franchises as, oh I don't know… Call Of Duty, Halo, Kingdom Hearts, Star Wars, RvB, even DBZ or DBS. Sure, the Fairy Tail cast has seen hard times. But not the hard times of other heroes. Plus, it would be entertaining for our favorite cast of mages and their friends to see the events in other worlds. Or better yet, it would be funny for Natsu to keep wanting to fight a lot of the legends on display. Like Saitama… good ol' Saitama.

Second hot take, Gate JSDF and Queen's Blade deserve some more crossover stories. With which franchises? Any that make the so-called empire bend the knee. And most importantly, these fics must be rated M. Why? One's a mix of dark fantasy (or edgy due to slavery and implied rape) and adventure the other is Ecchi personified. I mean… check out Queen's Blade wiki and you'll understand. Lol

Last hot take, despite her previous relationship with Zack Fair, I can see Aerith Gainsborough being shippable with Cloud Strife. While a majority of fans see Cloud with our favorite brawler and martial artist Tifa Lockhart, I am part of the minority that sees Cloud with Aerith. Though I don't mind pairing Cloud with Tifa, there is an appeal in pairing the freelance swordsman with the flower girl. Seriously, think of the moments between the two, especially now that I've been playing the Remake, I love the dynamic.

On with the story!

Disclaimer: I do not own Fairy Tail or Dragon Ball Z. All rights, characters, and media belong to their respective owners.

Cover Art credit goes to Deviantart artist hsvhrt.

Akane Resort

Beach

Late Morning/Noon

Akane Resort.

According to reviews, the place was very well renowned on the Eastern Continent and even parts of the Western Continent.

Akane was the perfect place for families, young adults and adults to enjoy sunshine, the sea, and everything that came with it all.

Akane Resort had a casino, a large beach for the tourists, food stands, a food court, an indoor water park, a dining hall, an amusement park and a five-star hotel. All in all, Akane Resort was a fun place to be. Especially if one were to be a mage.

Now…

Fairy Alpha had arrived with their mentor in tow. Usually, most people would come to Akane Resort having a reservation or paying upon arrival. The team of mages and the Scarred Saiyan however, secured their reservations via tickets. How did this happen?

Well~…

Flashback

Fairy Tail Guild Hall (Construction Site)

Morning

"So, you were a Celestial Spirit this entire time?" Natsu queried.

Natsu, Lucy, Happy, Gray, Mira, Levy and Cana were all at the makeshift bar. It had only been a day since Loke's disappearance. Lucy of course assured the guild that Loke was safe, before announcing there was important news regarding Loke that he would tell the guild at a specified time.

A majority of the guild just took Lucy's announcement at face value, relieved that their friend and comrade was ok. The remaining few on the other hand pressed on further about Loke's condition, only to get assurance that he was ok and would return to tell the news of what happened.

Needless to say, once Loke came back, the select few who were still worried about his status were floored by the revelation. Levy of course asked the most questions. Natsu had a clue since he was there the night Loke's identity had been revealed by Lucy and her analytical skills.

"That's right. I represent the constellation Leo and have leadership over the Zodiac spirits. Pretty cool right?" Loke replied.

Loke was now dressed in a dress shirt, jeans and boots. He would eventually grow his hair back out and return to his usual style but stepping out in terms of fashion felt like a breath of fresh air.

"Whatever you say. I always knew something was off about you, I just couldn't figure out what." Natsu dismissed with a shrug.

Loke shrugged while the ladies giggled a bit. Mira reached over the bar and grabbed Loke's hand, enclosing it with her own. She beamed a bright smile at him, which was shared by Cana, Levy and Lucy.

"Whatever the case may be, we are all happy that you're alright Loke. You had us worried there." Mira commented.

Loke let out a sheepish chuckle before placing his free hand on top of Mira's.

"I'll do my best not to worry you like that. If anything, this whole affair has taught me to lean more on my comrades." Loke assured.

Levy agreed with the sentiment with a hum and a nod.

"You got that right." Gray seconded with a smirk.

"Hear, hear!" Cana cheered with a raised mug.

Loke chuckled again, taking in the sight of his friends before turning to Natsu and Happy.

"Thanks for giving me that kick in the pants that I need Natsu."

Natsu offered a toothy grin and a thumbs up.

"Anything for my family man. Anything for my family."

Loke nodded before he felt a tug at his pants leg. He looked down to see Happy peering at him questioningly.

"So, since you're the Lion spirit does that make you a grown-up cat?" Happy questioned.

Loke took a pose, adjusting his shades while smiling.

"But of course!"

"Awesome!" Happy cheered.

The girls of course giggled at this while Gray sweat dropped. The ice mage then cleared his throat before allowing the question to come from his mind.

"What happens next for you man? You're technically still a Fairy Tail member but you're also a Celestial Spirit." Gray voiced.

"You would be right on both accounts. As such though, my first priority belongs with my new owner. Lucy's will is my will and I will honor our contract to the fullest. Speaking of…"

The spot where Loke was, suspiciously was absent of said spirit. The group were baffled for a hot minute before turning their heads at the sound of slight commotion. What met their eyes was Loke, nonchalantly carrying a comically fussing Lucy.

"As such we must discuss our future darling. We cannot waste anymore time." Loke declared.

"Put me down this instant! This isn't funny you!" Lucy yelled.

Loke would have made it a few feet further had it not been for the tight grip on his shoulder. That of course was not there before. Lucy too noticed this and looked over Loke's shoulder and squeak in surprise. Loke looked at Lucy curiously before looking over the same shoulder Lucy looked over.

Loke froze as a nervous smile came over his face while he broke out into a nervous sweat.

With his hair shadowed over his face, the seemingly demonic, ruby red eyes of Natsu drilled holes into Loke. If the eyes were a terrifying sight, the eerily wide grin that was sported by the Dragon Slayer was even more so.

"I hope you weren't going somewhere with Lucy, were you Loke?" Natsu queried.

Loke slowly shook his head as an answer. Without looking, Loke allowed for Lucy to get back to her feet, all while keeping his eyes on Natsu who didn't let up a grip on his shoulder.

A few tense moments passed before the demonic expression disappeared and Natsu took on his usual happy-go-lucky look.

"Thanks Loke! You rock!" Natsu complimented with a grin.

Natsu was then promptly bonked on the head by Lucy.

"Ow."

Chibi Lucy, with puffed cheeks and slight glare, started smushing Chibi Natsu's cheeks with her hands.

"Be nicer to Loke Natsu!" Chibi Lucy scolded.

Eyes closed and slightly pouting, Chibi Natsu let out a slight growl.

"But… mine." Chibi Natsu retorted petulantly.

Everyone minus Happy sweat dropped at the odd scene.

"I… have no comment." Gray admitted aloud.

Loke chuckled sheepishly before letting out an exclamation of surprise. This caught the attention of the other mages. The lion spirit dug around in his jacket pockets before whipping out what looked to be tickets.

Mira, Cana and Levy took a close look at the tickets before squealing loud. Their squealing was so loud that Gray had to cover his ears. Natsu and Lucy quit monkeying around for a moment, looking over at the group curiously.

"Oh my gosh I don't believe it!" Mira shouted excitedly.

"Hot damn Loke! You got the hook up as always!" Cana added with a grin.

Loke chuckled before Gray and Happy took two of the tickets in hand. Both members of Fairy Alpha inspected the ticket a bit closer to see what the fuss was about. Seconds passed before excitement and astonishment took a hold of both of them. Gray turned his gaze towards Loke, a smile growing on his face.

"Whoa man! What's this?" Gray asked.

"My gift to you guys. I spent a lot of time in the human world and I had originally planned on taking my girlfriends there."

Loke took a look to Natsu and Lucy who rejoined the conversation. Loke handed the remaining tickets to the pair before giving them both a bright smile.

"But, I have a new lease on life thanks to my friends. Since I have to recover my power and life force in the Celestial Realm, I leave this as my gift to Natsu and his team." Loke stated.

Lucy shared a smile with Natsu and both gave Loke a nod of thanks.

"I've never stayed at a hotel this fancy before. A vacation by the sea? I'll take that. Thanks man." Gray said with a thumbs up.

"Hooray!" Happy cheered.

Loke chuckled lightheartedly before being covered in light. All present heard him say 'Enjoy' before disappearing completely. With Loke gone, Fairy Alpha could barely contain their excitement. Lucy was immediately surrounded by the girls and they all squealed. Gray held up his ticket to the heavens, thanking every deity for a chance at an awesome vacation. Natsu on the other hand, excitedly took his buddy's paws into his hands.

"Happy… do you know what this means?"

"Aye!"

Both proceeded to act like a pair of loons and decided to break dance on a nearby table. Some nearby either went about their business while others chuckled at the typical antics of Natsu and his furry partner.

"We're going on vacation!~" they sung in unison.

While everyone was doing their own thing, no one noticed Erza had appeared, with her cart of luggage and clad in a sun hat, a floral shirt, shorts and sandals.

"We do have a train to catch and another member to retrieve! Time is precious!" Erza declared.

Everyone stared at Erza in various states of shock and surprise. It took a moment to get over the fact that once again Erza was dragging around a large cart of luggage (that mysteriously never gets stolen on missions) before addressing her.

"Wait a minute… what do you mean another member?" Lucy asked.

Erza raised a brow before pointing at the tickets that remained in Lucy's hand. Lucy took a look and down and saw two tickets remained. Natsu and Gray had their tickets already. Two were reserved for herself and Erza. Since Happy could be considered a pet by technicality he didn't need a ticket. So, Lucy wondered how and why there was an extra ticket available.

("Though knowing Loke and his original intentions… I'd rather not ask.") the blonde deadpanned internally.

Taking a look at the three other females, Lucy smiled.

"So, who wants to go with us?" Lucy offered.

The three female mages offered sheepish and apologetic smiles.

"I've already been a handful of times for Sorcerer Weekly. That and the master still needs me to help with things around here." Mira stated.

Lucy and Erza nodded in understanding at this. Makarov sometimes said aloud how things would fall apart if either Mira or Erza weren't around. If both were gone, it would be pure anarchy. The blonde and redhead looked to Cana next.

"I just help out Mira when I can. Plus, I'm saving up for a personal trip myself. Maybe next time." Cana admitted.

Lucy and Erza traded glances and shrugged. It had become known that recently that Cana and Mira were hanging out more. Although Cana continued to drink on a daily basis, she took the time to train a little while Mira got her magical groove back. Mira praised Cana for being a good, supportive friend and also wanting to improve herself. Cana of course was happy and all the cheekier.

Accepting the card mage's reasoning, the blonde and redhead turned their attention to the last of the trio.

"I have a few missions I promised to go on my team with. I honestly wish I could go with you guys." Levy explained.

Lucy and Erza shared smiles before shrugging. They turned their attention back to the trio.

"All sound reasons. Maybe next time we can have an all-girls trip with the right funding." Erza said.

With that, the trio went about their business. Natsu, Gray and Happy conversed while waiting on Lucy and Erza. The blonde and redhead looked to the other members of their team. This went on for several seconds before Lucy hummed and looked to Erza.

"So, who is going to be our fifth?" Lucy inquired curiously.

Erza was a bit stumped at who to bring. She had a list in her head she was running through as they spoke. With Mira, Cana and Levy gone from the list, it narrowed down the potential members who could tag along with Fairy Alpha. With most going on jobs or helping to rebuild the guild hall, only a select few could be picked out as candidates to join in Fairy Alpha's vacation getaway.

One name came to mind and Erza immediately seemed satisfied.

"I think I have an idea." Erza answered with a smirk.

End Flashback

So Bardock was chosen as the fifth member of Fairy Alpha's vacation.

Bardock growled in annoyance before calming down. Getting riled up at this point wouldn't do him any good. He was here already so he might as well make most of the time off. He rarely let himself take breaks from training so a little rest wouldn't hurt.

Bardock was clad in a black muscle shirt, spare Gi pants also in black, his weighted boots, red sash, and red wristbands. The headband that Bardock almost always wore was tucked away safely with his pack… which was right now in his hotel room.

Thanks to Loke, Fairy Alpha and Bardock secured four hotel rooms. Not only that, but their entire vacation had also been paid for which meant free room service, free food and special privileges.

Bardock crossed his arms and looked out to the ocean as a slight breeze blew through his hair. The smell of the salty sea combined with the sounds of people and the sea gulls brought on a sense of… something Bardock couldn't pinpoint just yet. He had been working so hard since he first got here months ago, it was kind of hard taking the time to just step back and take a breather. He either trained or worked. Eating, sleeping and meditation also contributed to his schedule. He was rarely seen around Fairy Tail but the people who he often spoke with, talked to or associated with gravitated towards him.

He had unknowingly created bonds he didn't want but didn't mind to have.

The Saiyan Rebel looked to his traveling companions who were all doing their own thing. Gray was peeping the sea with an eager grin. Erza was trading glances between the food stands and the sea. It was pretty obvious her sweet tooth had kicked in since arriving.

Natsu, Lucy and Happy were pretty much joined together at the hips almost. Natsu and Happy jumped for joy while Lucy stretched.

Bardock sighed before walking off to a spot he had found. He already ate, so now he would take full advantage of this vacation… by taking a damn nap.

(Scene Change)

Bardock had his hands folded behind his head, boots off and rocking away in his hammock. The Saiyan Rebel was steadily breathing as he had fallen into a somewhat peaceful slumber.

Meanwhile, Fairy Alpha was taking full advantage of sunshine and waves.

Natsu and Happy were playing with some kids, building sandcastles.

Gray was surfing on an ice made surfboard… though somehow he kept his swim trunks on. A miracle if it could be considered that.

Erza and Lucy were sunbathing on a towel that lied beneath a large parasol.

Nearby was Juvia, who was sipping on a fancy juice with an umbrella in it. She had a light blush as she stared admiringly at Gray's sculpted form. Though young, Gray's early years training with Ur, years of work at Fairy Tail and recent training with Bardock crafted a figure that made most young men jealous. So Juvia wasn't at fault for staring. Though most would be wondering how and why she was at Akane Resort in the first place…

Oh well.

(Scene Change)

Happy sat atop a highchair with a Cheshire grin and a fish in his possession.

The feline was looking down at sand pit that served as a volleyball court, one of several found on the beach. Today he was going to be a referee.

A crowd had gathered nearby, with Juvia among them remaining incognito. All were there to watch Fairy Alpha play a short game of volleyball. On one side was Natsu and Gray. On the other side was Lucy and Erza. No friendly wagers had been placed but the team agreed upon a game in the spirit of competition.

The game that ensued was close but neither team lost their drive or smiles.

Early on, Natsu and Gray had put Lucy and Erza on their heels. But the female pair fought back hard, taking a small lead thanks in large part from the efforts of Lucy.

In the end, Lucy and Erza won by the skin of their teeth after going neck and neck with the boys. Though slightly disgruntled, Natsu and Gray admitted their defeat, commending the girls on a great game. Fairy Alpha then welcomed the cheers of the crowd that gathered. Juvia herself was giving a joyous applause.

Gray took in the praise, while Natsu and Lucy had the decency to look sheepish. Erza of course stepped forward and through a 'V' for victory with triumphant smile.

(Scene Change)

Erza had gone off to get some treats to satiate her sweet tooth.

Happy had teamed up with Natsu and Lucy in a very entertaining prank.

Gray, before taking a nap, had lost his swim trunks somehow due to his stripping habit. While unconscious, Gray was dragged from his spot beneath one of the team's two parasols by Natsu. Although reluctant, Lucy joined in after some heavy convincing.

So now, Gray was buried up to his chest in sand while lying on his back. The mischievous trio snickered somewhat evilly at their handiwork. Gray's neck and arms were left untouched. But from the chest down, Natsu, Lucy and Happy had perfectly crafted a mermaid's body, tail and all.

The finishing touches was Lucy placing Gray's hands upon the sandy bust the trio had crafted. Natsu slapped his hand over his mouth, tears at the corners of his eyes as he tried not to bellow out laughter. Happy had both paws over his mouth, muffling his snickers like he usually does when teasing Lucy and/or Natsu.

Lucy, holding back giggles, took Natsu by the hand and ran off down the beach. Happy on the other hand, flew off to a palm tree and sat down to gleefully munch on a fish.

(Scene Change)

The day turned to evening and all of Fairy Alpha along with Bardock, had gone back to their respective rooms. It had been a fun day for everyone (especially Bardock since he got a nap in). Erza, lounging in lawn chair on the balcony, had been watching the sunset. She thought back on the joy and fun the day had brought into her heart. Her guild mates, teammates and family had given her a memory she would cherish for a very long time.

But when Erza slipped into a short sleep, the nightmares had begun.

Elsewhere

A hooded figure looked into an orb. The orb showed the various members of Fairy Alpha enjoying themselves at Akane Resort. When Erza's image came up, the figure set a hand on top of the orb almost in anticipation and reverence.

"Soon my dear Erza… our time shall come. Where we will walk into destiny together." The figure spoke.

The figure was not alone in the chamber that he was in. On one side was a trio of assassins, each had their own specialty. In the trio was two males and one female.

But there was a clear tension in the room though. On the other side of the chamber were six men, all wearing strange armor. Five of the men were the muscle and the sixth served as the ringleader. Said ringleader wore a cloak, so no one got a good glimpse of his face. He was sitting down, snacking on an apple and watching the other four individuals in the chamber.

The cloaked man grinned maliciously as he licked the fruit juices from his lips. If there was a show to start, he would be the show stealer.

After all he was a warrior… and a pirate.

A/N: Shocking! The chapter is over!

It's a nice short chapter to build up to later events. We get an idea of the major players in this arc. For this arc I have seven chapters planned. This one and the next two are good build up for the fourth and fifth chapters that contribute to the arc. The fourth and fifth chapters within the TOH Arc are where a bulk of the fights occur. The Sixth serves as a finale while the seventh concludes the arc and leaves a special gift for the fans.

I won't spoil what that gift is.

Also, while reading the manga I found a funny moment from the montage of Natsu's team enjoying themselves. Apparently, while Juvia was 'Gray Watching', Natsu had told Gray how clear the water was while standing right next to him. Happy, who noticed that Gray was missing his swim trunks said to him and I quote…

"Gray, why don't we put on some swim trunks, ok?"

The look on his face and imagining Happy's tone was too much for me. XD

As always you are all amazing. COVID-19 is still a thing but there has been improvement in some areas. Sadly, we still have casualties in the pandemic and my prayers go to all families affected.

I hope you are all continuing to do well in your lives and I hope I can add enjoyment to your day/night by continuing my works on the site. You, the authors and readers make everything worth it.

Leave reviews, comments, criticisms, and everything else… you guys know the drill!

See ya later!