(Edited 01/11/18)
(Edited 31/12/20)
(Edited 10/06/22)
I do not own Fairy Tail Hiro Mashima does.
To Keep a Promise
/Town of Clover – Outskirts/
"Ice Make Hammer!"
A large hammer made of ice materialised above Erigor and hit him on the head, sending him crashing into the ground. The Dark Guild Master snarled and flipped himself back onto his feet.
"You only delay the inevitable you fool!"
"I ain't gonna let you kill the Guild Masters!"
"You'll die a pointless death you fool," Erigor spat as he created a large twister that began to rip up everything near it.
Gray grinned and began blocking the debris being hurled towards him due to the twister, returning fire with his Ice Make Magic when he could. Eventually, Gray managed to find a hole in Erigor's attack pattern which only served to widen his grin to comical proportions.
"Finally lost your mind, huh?"
"As if ya freak, in fact I'm about to beat you!"
"About to defeat me you say, the condition you're in says otherwise."
Gray looked down at the various cuts and wounds littering his body before looking up at the cocky Guild Master before him. Shaking his head, he entered his usual offensive stance which only served to further anger the man.
"Just stay down Fairy and I'll make your death quick!"
"As if, I've gotta beat you. I can't let Natsu take all the credit for this job or he'll never let me live it down! Ice Make Geyser!"
A large torrent of ice emerged underneath Erigor and encased him in ice, a look of complete shock the last thing the man had on his face as Gray shot a smirk in his direction.
"Try generating wind through that ya bastard!"
"You look like crap Gray," a voice called out in a semi mocking tone from behind him.
"Bout time ya got here pyro. That guy give you that much trouble," Gray replied with a grin.
"Ha, as if! At least I don't look like I jumped into a grinder."
"That's enough you two. Gray, you seriously got knocked around by this guy huh," Erza said whilst motioning toward his body which had several rather large cuts in it. "Are you alright?"
"I'm fine Erza, I'd say it was definitely worth taking a few hits to take that bastard down. Right, Natsu?"
"Yeah, guess your right on that one bud, but where's the flute?"
Frozen on that bastard, or at least it still should be. Unless he pawned it off on one of his underlings," Gray replied as he walked over to the frozen form of Erigor. "Ah, yeah here it is."
That's a relief. Now, let's get it out of there and go see gramps," Natsu said as the group made its way to the Guild Master's conference hall.
/Clover – Guild Master's Conference Hall/
"You brats are going to kill me one of these days," Makarov sighed as he spoke to the team.
"Hey, we stopped the Dark Guild right, what's the problem," Natsu shot back as Makarov raised his hands in a calming motion.
"Nothing my boy, it's just all the fighting with the Dark Guilds lately is worrying me."
"Yeah, especially since the Bharam Alliance wants me captured," Natsu said as the whole room was shocked.
"Explain yourself right now Natsu!"
Natsu sighed and took a seat as everyone at the conference gathered around to listen.
"Ok, so we'd tracked Erigor to the Oshibana Station. Erigor was fleeing with the flute and we were gonna chase after him. As I broke through the barrier he put up to delay us and we began to chase Erigor there were three guys standing on a roof. The guy in the middle was supposed to be the Deputy Commander of Grimoire Heart."
"Grimoire Heart? That's one of the big three of the Bharam Alliance," Master Goldmine said with concern in his voice.
"Oh you poor dears," Master Bob said as the younger men felt a chill up their spine.
"Anyway it wasn't just him though there were two of the Seven Kin of Purgatory with him. Erza and Elise took those two on while I took on the lead guy. Now one thing we need to clear up right now is that everyone in Oshibana is dead."
"Good lord," another Guild Master said.
"These Dark Guilds are going too far," another one said.
"Basically, the guy who was the Deputy Commander said his name was Bluenote Stinger. To put it simply I used an attack that packed more power than a Jupiter Cannon yet the worst he got was a few scratches and some tattered clothes. That guy is as strong as Gildarts," Natsu said with a grin.
The room was dead silent before Makarov cleared his throat.
"So the fact you're here means that it was either a draw or you beat him back."
"Honestly he ended the fight after I blasted half of Oshibana away in an attempt to finish him off," Natsu admitted as the entire room seemed eager to hear more on this Bluenote person. "He praised me for my strength, promised we'd meet again and just left like that."
"Unbelievable," Makarov sighed as he scratched his head in thought.
"During the fight he said that the Alliance wanted me because of what I did to Valthiem, though he didn't say much else."
"Did anything eventful happen to you two," Makarov asked as the two shook their heads.
"Nothing to the scale of Natsu's fight," Elise said.
"Indeed. I had no idea that you were basically fighting to evade capture," Erza replied in concern.
"Relax Erza, I promised you I wasn't going anywhere didn't I."
"But if we had been there-."
"You would have most likely been badly hurt or killed Erza and I'm not really sure how Elise would go."
"Was he really that strong?"
"It's like I said, he was as strong as either Gildarts or myself," Natsu sighed.
"Well, it sounds like you lot had a rough day," Makarov said with a sad smile. "Though we shall mourn for the lives lost in Oshibana at the hands of the Dark Guild Eisenwald, it is good to see that, at the very least, you all managed to bring them to justice."
"Yeah, at least we can have a breather," Gray sighed as he entered the room bandaged up.
"I'm afraid that breather will have to wait Gray," Natsu replied with a grim expression as he turned to look at the flute on the table.
"What's wrong Natsu," Erza asked him noticing his expression.
"There's one thing that we all forgot to deal with, we need to get out of here quickly."
"What are you talking about Natsu," Makarov asked concerned.
"Gramps, concentrate. You should be able to sense it too."
Makarov closed his eyes and focused on the flute directly, feeling the powerful Aura of Death that had been slowly leaking from it. Eyes shooting open, Makarov had jumped onto the table faster than anyone though him capable as he raised his voice.
"Everyone, we need to run right now!"
"Master, what's going on," Erza asked as everyone looked over at Makarov in confusion.
"Natsu's right. There is an overwhelming amount of Dark Magic all around us and we need to move," Makarov said as everyone started running.
"I'll hold em off, you guys get moving!"
"What are you talking about Natsu?"
"There's no time Erza, you don't have enough magical power for this."
"But-."
"I'll come back Erza, I promise."
Erza ran towards Natsu and hugged him tightly; Natsu smiled and quickly returned the hug.
"Make sure everyone stays at the town limits I have to put up a barrier and I don't want to trap any civilians inside it."
Erza nodded and ran off to tell the others when a large explosion came from the table they had just been sitting at.
"You foolish humans, hear the sweet melody of eternal slumber!
"What the hell is that," Erza shouted over the sounds of the building being torn apart by the beast's appearance.
"You're one ugly bastard huh."
"Hmm a human dares to stand before one of Zeref's finest," Lullaby growled as he continued to grow in size.
"Zeref's finest huh; you just look like an overgrown tree to me."
"You assume insults will work on a Demon; such is the foolishness of humans."
Natsu simply smiled as he ignited his fists, the entire area quaking as Natsu began to power up.
"I thought this magical power felt familiar," Natsu hummed as he looked up at the now identified Demon. "Which one of the Demons from the Books Of Zeref are you!?"
Demon From The Books Of Zeref
The Maestro Of Death
Lullaby
"I see," Natsu hummed in thought. "It has been quite some time … but I think I should be able to deal with you! Fire Dragon King's Quaking Searing Blockade!"
"Foolish human, you may have me trapped in here now but I am a demon of Zeref you stand no chance!"
"That's what the Demon Skkard said as well, not that it did her much good."
Lullaby was genuinely surprised at the statement, a low rumbling sound accompanying his question "You've fought others?"
"Just the one back in the Scarlione Empire, it was nowhere near as big as you but it used a really interesting type of magic it only called Silence magic."
"So you have indeed fought and defeated Skkard human. For you to be standing here now you would have had to kill her. Skkard's Silence magic is a type of Death magic that doesn't deal death to beings directly but rather the surroundings similar to Lord Zeref's curse."
"Yeah it was a tough fight; I've never felt such power before."
"Indeed human, we Demons were not created to lose so the fact you beat one of us is quite the feat. Though I will have to kill you regardless, know that you have earned a Demon's respect."
"You're acting as if I'm gonna lose," Natsu snorted in amusement. "I made a promise to Erza and I plan to keep it."
"Let's see you try then human," Lullaby roared as he began to release an overwhelming amount of Dark Magic.
Natsu began to power up as well, putting out an enormous amount of power shocking all the onlookers in the distance. All the Guild Masters naturally knew of Natsu, of the boy who ran off with Gildarts Clive and hadn't been seen in almost a decade however none could have ever believed a tale of his power being on such a level.
"Unbelievable! How can Natsu be outputting that much power," Makarov gasped at the sheer absurdity of what he was looking at. "I guess Gildarts really wasn't kidding when he said Natsu was one of the strongest in the guild now!"
"What the hell even is Natsu," Gray shouted in disbelief.
Elise shifted into Eliza who began to chuckle momentarily garnering the attention of the others present. Aside from the team who were already well aware of the Goddess, the Guild Masters were likewise stunned at the sudden transformation.
"I want to see this fight myself," she said simply as she motioned to the massive Demon below. "Lord Zeref's creations may not have all been made equal, but their threat level certainly exists on a higher tier regardless of your opinion on them."
Makarov stared at Eliza with an eyebrow raised only for Erza to place a hand on the old man's shoulder.
"I'll fill you in later Master," Erza sighed as a bright flash turned the group's attention back to the town.
Where Natsu was standing was a large pillar of fire. That slowly began to dissipate revealing Natsu who was surrounded by flames.
"Knowing what you are, there's no way I can't use a power like this," Natsu sighed as he took a deep breath. "Prepare yourself Lullaby, I haven't needed to tap into this kind of power since the war!"
"Surely he's not going that far," Makarov muttered as the group looked toward him in confusion.
"What do you mean Master?"
"Gildarts told me of Natsu's abilities, more specifically the way he is able to reign in his destructive power," the old man replied to Erza who looked back at the two massive pillars of raw magic. "There are tiers to which Dragon Slayers apparently unlock their full potential-."
"Assimilation and Acclimatization Of The Fire Dragon being Phase One," Erza muttered with the old man nodding in agreement.
"Phase Two simply combines those two aspects, a skill he likely would have used against this Bluenote fellow in order to use the attack that he said wiped out half of Oshibana. However, what Natsu is about to do would be his Phase Three form …"
"Phase Three?"
"Just watch Erza and you'll soon understand," Makarov replied, inwardly proud of the young man who was currently facing down a threat most mages would have fled from.
"Don't say you weren't warned," Natsu growled as scales began to form around his face and chest area, the crimson colouration of his flames becoming darker in response as the magical pressure in the area increased tenfold.
"Ahh … the power of the Dragon Slayers of old," Lullaby hummed as he exerted more of his own power. "I see now …"
"Flame Drive," Natsu shouted as fire exploded out in all directions, obliterating what was once the conference hall and the surrounding area.
The Guild Masters and the team, minus Eliza, watched on in in complete shock as the entire area was reduced to a wasteland of crimson fire and charred rock. Lullaby merely put up a protective barrier to defend himself but everything else around his position was gone.
"Do you really think that'll save you from my song, the Lullaby of Death," the Demon roared as it took a deep breath. "Prepare for the final symphony!"
"I don't think so Lullaby," Natsu growled in response as he cocked his fist back, the sound of an explosion going off as he charged an attack. "Fire Dragon King's Quaking Demolition Fist!"
Coating his hand in crimson fire and Crash Magic, Natsu charged at Lullaby who simply roared in response. The Demon cocked its own fist back, coating it with Dark Magic as the two clashed.
"I don't have time to screw around with Demons like you here! I'll keep them safe, all of them just like I promised all those years ago," Natsu roared as an audible crack was heard throughout the countryside.
"You foolish human, defeating one Demon has made you full of yourself," Lullaby replied only to gasp as his entire arm shattered. "WHAT!?"
"You'll never kill anyone ever again with your damn Death Magic!"
"Gaaaaaahhhh!" Lullaby roared out in pain as Natsu prepared the killing blow.
"This is the end for you," Natsu said darkly as he dropped down to all fours, a massive Fire Magic Circle appearing before him as it began to rotate, a much smaller one representing Crash Magic appearing just behind it and rotating in the opposite direction. "Fire Dragon King's Quaking Roar!"
Lullaby roared as the attack eclipsed the entire right side of his body, blasting it away. Being made of wood, the Demon stood no chance against the Crash Magic infused flames and was blasted apart leaving only a small portion of its body behind.
"Now," Natsu growled as he advanced forward to the horrified Demon who only had one eye left to watch as his executioner moved forward. "Time to finish you off!"
"N-no! I am the great Demon Lullaby; I WILL NOT BE DESTROYED LIKE THIS!"
"Fire Dragon King's-!"
Natsu's eyes widened, his vision blurring as he dropped down to one knee. Lullaby was shocked as blood began to pour from Natsu's mouth, having fully expected the killing blow to be delivered at any moment.
"Natsu," Erza cried out as she moved to aid him only for Makarov to hold her back. "Let me go Master, I've got to help Natsu!"
"You will do no such thing Erza," Makarov snapped back.
"What happened to him gramps," Gray asked in disbelief. "He was about to land the killing blow!?"
"Natsu, I'm afraid to say, has run out of magic," Eliza said as she motioned to Natsu who was now fully collapsed on the ground and no longer in his Flame Drive form. "He already used a considerable amount against Bluenote, plus the amount he used racing to Oshibana in the magic car and again racing out here to Clover …"
"H-how could we all be so stupid," Erza said through grit teeth. "Even I didn't consider that he was pushing himself so hard!"
Back on the front lines, Natsu was clutching his chest in pain as he looked over at the still stunned Demon. He grit his teeth as he tried to drag himself into an upright position only to collapse once more.
"Damn … I've got nothing left!"
Lullaby, realising that his opponent was truly down, began to drag himself closer with the intent to finish him off. The Demon roared as his one remaining arm closed the distance between them.
"THIS IS IT FOR YOU!"
"No …"
"Honestly, you really are reckless Natsu."
His vision was shaky and yet he could tell he wasn't hallucinating. A black cloak suddenly appeared in his field of vision, a slight grin coming to the face of the spent Dragon Slayer.
"Like I said back at the Guild Hall … never shows up on time, right Gildarts?"
"I'd like to think this is the exact time I needed to be here," the Crash Mage replied before looking over at the Demon which froze in its tracks.
"Wh-what sort of monster are you!?"
Lullaby backed away upon looking at Gildarts' face, a look of hatred and fury planted firmly upon it. The man grit his teeth as he began unleashing his own magical power, taking a step forward to shatter the ground beneath him.
"You … Get the hell away from my precious student."
Everyone watched the exchange in a mixture of shock and disbelief, none more so however than Makarov himself however who was visibly shaking at the power Gildarts was putting out at that very moment.
'This is unreal … I can literally FEEL Gildarts' rage and desire to protect Natsu! To forge a bond such as this … Just what on Earthland have the two of you been through!?'
"S-STAY BACK," Lullaby shrieked as a pillar of bright white light engulfed Gildarts. "I ORDER YOU TO STAY BACK!"
"No," Gildarts' voice boomed as a shadowed version of him opened its eyes, Crimson Red eyes glaring daggers into the Demon. "This is where you die."
"STAY AWAY," Lullaby roared to no avail as Gildarts cocked back his right fist.
"Crash Arts Secret Technique: Crushing Evil – Shatterpoint!"
Throwing the punch a considerable distance away from Lullaby, the attack seemed to crack the air itself as a powerful shockwave cleared the distance within mere moments. The second the shockwave hit Lullaby however the Demon let loose an unholy screech that had everyone covering their ears.
"The attack that Reflects The Accursed, a final purifying strike," Gildarts muttered as the remaining portion of Lullaby was ripped apart into cubes that continued to divide until it was no longer visible. "A fitting end to a blood lusted Demon like you."
With an audible sigh, Gildarts turned around to face a now unconscious Natsu. Looking at the kid he could tell he'd been in a fierce battle beforehand by the battle damage, knowing full well he'd taken none against the Demon itself.
"I should have come sooner," the Crash Mage muttered to himself as he picked the pink haired Slayer up and slung him over his shoulder. "I'm sorry."
Walking out of the crater, Gildarts made his way toward the outskirts where he knew the rest of the group had retreated.
/Clover Outskirts/
"Gildarts," Makarov cried out as he ran toward the Crash Mage. "Is Natsu alright!?"
"Severe magical exhaustion," Gildarts replied quietly. "Listen, I'm sorry I wasn't here sooner, I-!"
"Thanks for saving him Gildarts," Erza cut in before the man could begin offering what he knew to be lame excuses. "I don't think even Natsu expected his power to run out at that moment, otherwise I doubt he would have used that form."
"I-I should have still come right away instead of getting side-tracked," Gildarts replied with a small scowl. "If I had been even a minute later-!"
"I would have stepped in," Makarov cut in firmly as he placed a hand on Gildarts' leg. "You forget Gildarts that you are not alone, especially not in Fairy Tail."
"You wouldn't understand Makarov," Gildarts replied, though his scowl did eventually fade. "During the war in Scarlione, for a long while … Natsu and I were all the other had. If we pulled a stunt like that back then …"
"But this isn't Scarlione," Makarov countered gently as Erza took the Slayer from his arms. "When we get back to Magnolia, you and I are going to be sitting down and having a long discussion about this Gildarts."
"Are you serious?"
"You aren't in trouble, I'm simply worried about you," Makarov sighed in concern. "I could feel the emotion rolling off of you down there and even though most of them don't know how to sense it … I can."
"I see."
"Anyway, it's time to leave," Makarov said as he turned to face the other Guild Masters who all had solemn looks. "My apologies for leaving so abruptly, but as you can see there are serious matters I must attend to with my guild."
"Just go Makarov, we get it," Goldmine replied with a wave of his hand. "Make sure that kid gets the best damn rest you can afford him though …"
"Oh yes, the poor dear is clearly beyond exhausted," Bob added quickly as the group went to leave.
"But Makarov, don't forget what we all discussed," Ooba said cryptically prompting the aged Master of Fairy Tail to nod in understanding.
"Don't worry, I certainly won't."
/Unknown Forest/
The group eventually found themselves stopping to make camp, the events of the day finally coming down on them full force. Those who were conscious all sat around a campfire making light discussion with Gildarts and Eliza being the most vocal one's present.
"So, you're saying that you are a God," Gildarts asked with an eyebrow raised.
"Yes dear, I am the Goddess of War."
"And you're here why exactly?"
"I am here because I and Elise wish to be here."
"But aren't you some sort of almighty being though? Don't you have other things that would require your attention?"
"Not really. I merely am the being from which war originates from. The beings of these worlds do a good enough job of maintaining war themselves so I need not interfere."
"Stop pestering her Gildarts," Makarov sighed. "She's clearly an ally."
"It's quite alright I don't mind, but I do have a question for you though Makarov," Eliza replied as she locked eyes with the Guild Master.
"Well of course what is it," Makarov asked with his usual smile.
"When we converse, what would you prefer I call you. Elise may call you Master but I don't know what you want me to call you?"
"Makarov will be fine; after all, you're older and more powerful than me so calling me Master would be quite odd."
"Indeed, it would," Eliza chuckled softly before turning her attention to Natsu whose head was resting on Erza's lap. "That man has gone through much."
"So you can see it all then," Gildarts asked curiously as Eliza nodded.
"Can you tell us what happened to him," Gray asked as Eliza shook her head.
"I will not since he has not decided to share it with you all himself. Though I will say that he's been dropping you all hints to his past as you have been travelling."
"What's that supposed to mean," Erza asked as Eliza laughed.
"As for you, well you're another matter entirely dear."
"Why can't you speak some sense," Erza growled as Eliza laughed again.
"This is truly amusing I must say. Makarov your guild is truly marvellous!"
"Well thank you Eliza," Makarov said slightly surprised as Gildarts laughed in amusement.
"Guys we need to get some rest if we're gonna make it back to Magnolia by the end of the week. From what I can tell the trains are gonna be out for quite awhile due to all the fights that have taken place recently."
"Yeah especially since that idiot blew up half of Oshibana now no trains can go East," Gray said as he pointed to Natsu.
"Gray, you probably shouldn't judge Natsu for that. In fact you're all lucky Natsu was there because if he wasn't Bluenote would've killed you all easily."
"So you know this man Gildarts," Makarov asked.
"Yeah I've heard stories, seen his handiwork too. The guy could give me a run for my money in terms of power, hell me and Natsu are Wizard Saint level so that should tell you all you need to know."
"Indeed though just being around the strength of a Wizard Saint means little unless you're ranked among them. That's the only true gauge one can really go on," Makarov said.
"Well since you wanna make it so complicated old man it's like this ok. I'm stronger than you; Natsu is also stronger than you. This means that Bluenote is stronger than you."
"Are you trying to piss me off Gildarts?"
"What I'm trying to say that he's at least Wizard Saint rank seven or higher in terms of power."
"And Natsu can take guys like that on," Gray asked in disbelief.
"Trust me when I say this Gray, Natsu earned every last bit of power he has through hard work and perseverance. I see that kid like a Son, the pain he went through just to get stronger for everyone was horrible for me to put him through yet I did it. Why you might ask, because in the end I knew Natsu had what it took to see the training through to its end."
"You make it sound like his training was basically a death sentence though?"
"That's because it was Gray. Before he was even sixteen all of the bones in his body had been broken three times over. He'd spent over six months in a forest unable to use anything but his raw strength to survive. Every day he'd take direct hit's from my Crash Magic just to toughen him up. When he was eighteen I decided to teach him my magic as a birthday present. Can you guess what happened?"
The group stared at Gildarts in horror as they shook their heads.
"His first attempt to use Crash Magic backfired and he blew his arm off."
"Then how's he have an arm now then," asked Gray.
"Well you obviously haven't seen his Phase One form then Gray. Right after that, instead of crying or giving up Natsu turned to me and said. I want to become fire. At the time I thought that was a stupid statement so I just smiled and said yeah that's the spirit but inside I was struggling to understand him. A week was all it took for Natsu to reach Phase One you know."
"You're kidding."
"Nope. Within one week he came up to me, turned into fire, took the campfire we were using and used it to get his destroyed arm back. I couldn't believe it either. That kid is a prodigy, and taking him with me was one of the best things I could have done for him," Gildarts said as he looked at Makarov who was staring at Gildarts in utter shock.
"Why didn't you tell me any of this when you returned?"
"Simple, because Natsu told me not to."
"But then why are you telling us all now?"
"Because I want you all to understand just how much Natsu went through so he could be able to protect you all from things like that Demon."
"I- I can't give the two of you punishment after all of this," Makarov sighed. "Perhaps even discussing your past is punishment enough …"
"How the hell could Natsu survive that and still be sane," Gray said as he looked at him.
"Erza could only look down at Natsu, tears in her eyes as she processed everything he had been through for all of them.
Tears began to fall on Natsu's face as she began to cry, she didn't care that there were other people there. Hearing about what Natsu had been through was too much for her as she began to sob uncontrollably before a hand was place on her cheek.
"Don't cry Erza it …. hurts me," he said as Erza's eyes widened.
"You heard all that," Erza asked him softly.
"Yeah and I'm gonna kick your ass for that Gildarts," Natsu sighed as he took Erza's hand.
"Natsu I can't believe what you went through," Erza said as she hugged him tightly.
"Erza, I went through all of that so no one else from the guild needs to. But that's not the only reason, though I'll let you know later."
"Hey, why aren't you gonna tell us," Gray asked annoyed.
"Shut up popsicle," Natsu said as he fell asleep again in Erza's arms.
"I don't regret making that boy S Class, not after all this," Makarov said as he stood up.
"You still had doubts," Gildarts asked surprised.
"No, consider this adding more foundation to my decision."
"I see. Well we should all try to get some rest for the long walk tomorrow."
Everyone agreed and began to turn in for the night.
Erza kept Natsu close for warmth as she slowly drifted off to sleep.
/Era – Siegrain's Chambers/
"Well, that was…. Interesting, to say the least."
"Indeed Lord Siegrain, Salamander shouldn't be taken lightly it seems."
Siegrain just laughed at Ultear's statement. "You honestly thought I would have taken him lightly after Valthiem?"
"I was merely adding to the conversation. Besides, we have more pressing concerns to attend to at the moment."
"Indeed, your project on Galuna is coming along as planned?"
"Naturally, that fool Lyon is resurrecting the Demon as we speak."
"You must not let anyone interfere with the project Ultear. We need the properties within the Iced Shell for the tower."
"I have already begun collecting some of the runoff from the shell. We will soon have more than enough for the project."
Siegrain began to laugh as he looked into the lacrima, his eyes staring at the frozen form of a Demon.
"What should be done about the Demon once it's revived?"
"Well, I'm sure we can fabricate some job that needs to be done on the island and we might be able to have a certain guild step in," Siegrain replied with a knowing smirk.
"I think I have just the idea that could get the guilds attention, but there's just one problem."
"And what's that?"
"The Council will want someone to take the blame for Oshibana and Clover's destruction."
"Ah I see, well don't fret over that. I have a plan in regards to that, you focus on your mission," Siegrain said as he motioned towards the image of Galuna Island.
"Very well, Lord Siegrain."
/Outskirts of Magnolia/
"Man I'm starving," Natsu said as the group arrived at the edge of Magnolia.
"There won't be anything in the fridge at home so don't bother," Erza replied earning her a disappointed whine in response.
"Why are we standing around Master," Elise asked as Makarov motioned towards the city.
"Trust me, it'll be worth the wait."
"What's that noise," Elise asked as the ground began to shake.
"People of Magnolia, please make way for a Gildarts shift."
"What's a Gildarts shift," Elise asked before her eyes shot open.
"Yeah, never gets old," Natsu chuckled as he stared at the city changing itself.
The group began to walk towards the guild down the straight path. They were high spirited as they reached the Guild Hall entrance.
"Hey guy's we're-," Natsu fell silent as he noticed the platoon of Rune Knights in the Guild Hall.
"We're looking for the Master of this guild," one of the Rune Knights said.
"That would be me," Makarov said as he stepped forward.
"We are here on behalf of the Magic Council to arrest one Natsu Dragneel," another Rune Knight said as he too stepped forward.
"And what are the charges?"
One of the Rune Knights pulled out a piece of paper and began to read it to the guild.
"Natsu Dragneel, you are hereby charged of the following crimes against the great kingdom of Fiore and her citizens. The complete and utter destruction of Oshibana Town and its surrounding area, the destruction of the town of Clover, instigating a conflict between one of the three biggest guilds of the Bharam Alliance Grimoire Heart without Council approval, failure to report and hand over an artefact of Zeref and failure to report signs of Dark Guild activity to the Council."
Shocked whispers began to fly around the room as the guild began to discuss Natsu's actions over the past few days.
"So I guess I'm going on trial then," Natsu said as one of the Rune Knights nodded.
"You will be required to wear this for the duration of the journey," one of the Knights said as they pulled out a collar.
"Magic Suppression Collar huh, good luck with that pal," Natsu said as Gildarts stifled a laugh.
"Are you taking hostile action," the man asked.
"Nah. Just try putting it on my neck, it won't stay there for long," Natsu said as the man slowly began to attach the collar to Natsu's neck before it cracked and shattered.
"What did you do," the Knight asked shocked as Natsu simply laughed.
"There are those in this world whose magic can't be properly suppressed. An example you'd understand would be the Ten Wizard Saints."
The guards took a step back from Natsu as he simply shrugged. "I-impossible, there's no way you can be on that level!"
"Believe what you want pal, but the Council probably know it too. I said I'd come quietly but there's one condition."
"And what would that be," the Knight asked nervously.
"I want Erza to come with me," he said as he held out his hand for her to which she quickly accepted.
"As long as you don't try anything I guess that's acceptable," one of the Knights said as he motioned for them to follow.
"Don't worry guys I'll be fine; besides I have Erza with me now, she'll know how to get me out of this if I can't think of something," Natsu said cheerfully as he left the Guild Hall with Erza.
"That boy will seriously be the death of me Makarov sighed as he stared out to the city.
/Era/
The trip to Era was mostly uneventful. Natsu and Erza simply waited for their arrival in Era.
"Dragneel, step out of the carriage," a Rune Knight ordered as Natsu and Erza stepped out.
Natsu quickly realised that there was something wrong. A fair portion of the city had been damaged quite severely and there were many body bags lying in front of a destroyed building near the main gate.
"Hey, what happened here," Natsu asked one of the Rune Knights as they made their way towards the Council building.
"Grimoire Heart happened, that's what," the Knight said as Natsu decided not to push the subject.
'Surely it wasn't them,' he thought as he was motioned to wait near a large door.
"We will come to get you when it is time for your trial," the Knight said as he entered the room.
Natsu simply sighed and looked up at the ceiling.
"It's not your fault Natsu, for all we know it could have been an entirely different group of members," Erza said as she took his hand into hers.
"It was them Erza I can feel it," Natsu replied with a sad look.
"How do you know?"
"I can still feel large traces of Bluenote's magic in the area, it was them all right."
"But you said it yourself; Bluenote is on a whole other level than most people. Even if you had gone all out there isn't a guarantee you would have beat him."
"That may be so but it still could have prevented this …"
"And would have possibly allowed Lullaby to play its Death Magic? Some things happen in life Natsu and despite what we may want we can't change the past," Erza said as her smile faded.
"Shit, sorry Erza. I shouldn't have let you go that far," Natsu said before she simply hugged him.
"Don't be Natsu, because like I said if certain events don't play out you may miss out on some of the best things in your life," Erza said with a slight blush.
"Erza…."
The two quickly composed themselves as the door began to open and a frog walked out.
"Natsu Dragneel, the Council will see you now."
Natsu nodded as the two made their way inside.
Upon entering the chamber the Council immediately turned their attention to Erza.
"Natsu we have classified matters to discuss so if you could-."
"She stays Doma or I will do nothing," Natsu said firmly.
"You are certainly lucky that your accomplishments along with Gildarts are legendary or else you would have been locked up by now."
"Look, I'll be honest ok, Erza's probably less likely to spill what we say in this room than I am so cut her some slack and let her stay ok."
"Very well but she will be informed of the consequences by you once this is adjourned."
"Yeah that's fine but I've gotta ask, why'd you have me arrested?"
"Well to be honest your arrest is technically official however you will not be punished due to the information on the incidents at Oshibana and Clover that we have gathered. You see we know that you fought against Grimoire Heart before they came here and attacked the Council Dungeon so we wanted your take on the events."
"Which part since I fought the Demon Flute Lullaby and Bluenote within hours of each other."
"Your battle with the Demon of Zeref is still quite astonishing however there are only two people who were there firsthand and that's you and Gildarts."
"Well I guess I should start at the beginning then," Natsu said as he began to relay the full story to the Council.
When Natsu had finished retelling the story to the Council some of them were shocked while others were unfazed.
"So it seems our plan to disrupt the Dark Guilds not only failed but has given way to this mess," Gran Doma said with a sigh.
"So I'm guessing they broke that guy we captured out of prison then," Natsu said with a frown.
"Yes that appears to be the case. However, what's important is that we recognise what you have done to avert a possible nationwide crisis and while we cannot award you anything for this, we have one thing that we can do for you."
"And what's that?"
"Another member of the Council to my right named Ultear has discovered another Demon on the island of Galuna. We as the Magic Council wish to make a formal job request for you Natsu to go in and eliminate said Demon."
Natsu stood in silence and pondered it for a moment. "So which Demon is it?"
"We have reason to believe it's the Demon Deliora and it has been there for quite some time. Now we all know of your prior feats and think that you would be the best mage for the job."
"Why not get one of the Wizard Saints to do it though?"
"Well to be honest the Ishgar Four all turned us down straight away. And the higher up members aren't strong enough to take on a Demon of Deliora's calibre."
"Fine, I'll do it. But I want to know the full job request details."
"Of course Natsu, the payment will be three million jewel due to the severity of the threat. You won't be required to bring back any evidence of the kill as we have our eyes on the island watching for any signs of the Demon. Also there's a group on that island who are attempting to bring Deliora back, you may do what you wish with them."
"Anything else I need to know?"
"Well, this isn't going to be official but you're so called 'crimes' are no longer under your record. Not that they were to begin with but we wanted you to know."
"So can I take people with me?"
"Of course, but you must not tell them any classified information of course."
"Yeah yeah I know," Natsu sighed as he began to head to the exit with Erza.
"On behalf of the Council we thank you Natsu."
Natsu simply waved a hand as he left the room. He had barely begun walking down the hallway when Erza pulled him into a tight hug from behind.
"Natsu that was amazing! I had no idea you could negotiate so well with anyone let alone the Magic Council. Now not only are you in their good books but you're also being paid three million jewel, we can buy more stuff for the house with that."
"Let's not get too excited Erza, we still have to start the job first," Natsu said as he Requiped a notepad into his hand.
"What are you writing?"
"Oh I'm cancelling our dinner that I booked before we got back to the guild since we have a job to d-."
"Did you just say you cancelled dinner for this crap," Erza asked in an eerily calm tone.
"W-well you're the one that-."
"Put it back in the book and where are we going."
"Uh well I had a bit of spare cash left over I'd been saving and made reservations at Et Firniel."
Erza's eyes shot open as she crash tackled Natsu again. "You cannot be serious that place costs a fortune how in the world did you get reservations!?"
"I may or may not know the head chef."
"Oh my God, why didn't you say anything earlier today!? I need to go home and get ready I need to-."
"You mean we need to go home right?"
Erza's mind was racing a million miles a minute as she processed what Natsu said.
"R-right yes o-of course," she stuttered as Natsu simply took her hand causing her to blush.
"Erza calm down a minute ok. We still have the entire day to burn before dinner so you have plenty of time. Also I'm going to have to wear something different because my jackets kinda ruined."
"Wait what happened to the amazing outfit I picked for you," Erza yelled as her eyes went red.
"Well first Erigor's wind sliced it a bit, then Bluenote wrecked that and my jeans and Lullaby scratched up my jacket and shirt."
"I'll fix them when we get home," Erza said with a determined look in her eyes.
"Wait you know how to fix clothes," Natsu asked astonished.
"Well, not a man's clothes," she said quietly.
"Well I'll take em off now so they don't get ruined any more than they already are."
"Wait Natsu what are you-."
Natsu began to glow in a bright light as his clothes disappeared and were quickly replaced with a new set.
"My room might not be able to hold as much as yours but I know all the basics I need," he said with a grin as Erza checked him out.
His outfit consisted of long black pants with gold linings, black shoes to match the pants and a trench coat that was predominantly red with black and gold dragon symbols on it.
"Huh what do you think Erza?"
"Where in the world did you get that?"
"Well I don't usually wear it unless I'm serious because of this," he said as he pointed to a gem that was in the centre of the trench coats buttons.
What's it for?"
This right here Erza is a Crystallized Drake Heart and these are basically considered to be mythic because of all the things they can do."
"Wait that's the actual heart of a real-life Drake?"
"In a way, see when a Dragon or Drake dies it isn't the end for them. Their bodies attempt to leave for the plane that's between the living and the dead. This allows us to communicate with any Dragon or Drake who's entered this realm however if the Dragon or Drake attempts to remain in this world through certain acts they will be denied this honour of ascending."
"So what's this got to do with the Drake heart you have?"
"This particular Drake was a ruthless one. He preyed upon his own kind in a bid for power and even stole several other elements other than fire. Due to these acts he was denied entry into the in-between and remains right here," he said as he pointed at the crystal.
"Wait so it's still alive," asked Erza shocked.
"Pretty much yeah see he was cursed with undeath but also torture you see. Now torture for a Dragon or Drake is to be bound or to never roam the open skies again. This guy got both but as a result I was granted use of his powers through the use of these clothes," Natsu concluded.
"Wow who knew clothes could have so much back story."
"Yeah well I can't really use much of his power at the moment. Although once I master his powers the heart is meant to merge with me from what I'm told."
"That all sounds rather complicated."
"You have no idea," Natsu said with a sigh.
"If you two are done might I have a word with the two of you?"
Natsu and Erza quickly spun around to see one of the members of the Magic Council approaching them.
"Of course Sir, how can we assist you," Erza asked quickly as the man waved his hand to silence her.
"Please just call me Yajima, the formalities can get quite tiring at my age."
"Of course Mr Yajima, how can we help?"
"Well I've decided to head on over to Fairy Tail to catch up with Maki and fill him in on the details of the job."
"Maki," Natsu said confused.
"Ah yes, you kids wouldn't be old enough to remember me but I was once in Fairy Tail too," Yajima said with a smile as Natsu and Erza's jaws dropped.
"Wow I guess anything's possible, even a Fairy Tail wizard being on the Council," Natsu blurted out as Erza hit him over the head.
"Well you're half right Natsu. See, I was forced to leave the guild in order to take my seat on the Council. At first I turned it down but after some thinking I realised all the good I might be able to accomplish."
Natsu frowned at the statement. "If what you're saying is true old timer then I need to talk to you and gramps about something important when we get back to the guild."
"Is that so, well you've done nothing but good so far as I'm concerned so I'm all ears for when we get back but might I ask what this is all about?"
"We can't speak of it here," Natsu said as he motioned towards the other Council members who had begun leaving the chamber.
"Ah, I see," Yajima said as he realised what Natsu was referring to.
"We should get going then before the next train leaves," Erza cut in as she stared at one of the other Council members.
"Indeed the next train leaves soon," Yajima said as the three made their way there.
/Fairy Tail Guild/
The trip back to the guild was uneventful. The three arrived at the guild late in the afternoon. Erza had rushed back home to get ready for their dinner date later on that night leaving Natsu to escort Yajima back to the Guild Hall himself.
Natsu sighed as he walked up the steps with Yajima, his mind elsewhere. Yajima seemed to notice this as he tapped on the younger man's leg.
"You seem distracted Natsu, everything alright?"
"There are a lot of things that keep me distracted lately, most of which are bad."
"Yes, well I just want to apologise for the way the Council's been, we aren't giving you much in the way of support and a few of the members seem to see you as just another tool."
"Let them play their games, I'm used to it," Natsu sighed as he opened the door and motioned for Yajima to enter.
When the two entered the guild fell silent, clearly none of them having expected his return that very same day.
"Natsu, you're back," Mira exclaimed cheerfully as she turned to Yajima. "Hello Sir, I assume you came with Natsu"
"Hello there, we need to speak to Maki," Yajima said with a smile as Mira looked at him confused.
"He means gramps, Mira," Natsu said before she giggled at the nickname for the old man.
"Of course, he's in his office if you'd like to go on up," she said before returning to the bar.
"Mira won't ever let him live that down you know," Natsu said with a slight grin as the two made their way upstairs.
"Oh Natsu I didn't realise that you were-," Makarov flew out of his seat when he saw Yajima standing next to him.
"Relax Maki I'm not here to cause trouble."
"Oh, thank goodness, please have a seat you two," Makarov said as the two sat down.
"Right, so Natsu, you said you had something you wanted to fill us in on."
"Yeah I do and I want to apologise for not telling you this when I was meant to brief the Council about the Valthiem incident, but after you said what you said I decided you should be let in on this."
"What are you on about boy," Makarov said.
"Well this will basically be my word against another Council Member but remember the Guild Master of Valthiems Razor? Well, turns out that he was Council Member Hogg."
"I find that hard to believe that Natsu considering that you killed him yourself."
"Well you see that's the thing, he's not the one I'm pointing my finger at. See the Hogg that's on the Council is nothing more than a complex form of Illusion Magic."
"And how do you know this?"
"Because Hogg told me himself. It's why he became the leader of Valthiem in the first place to get his revenge."
"So who is the other member that you're accusing and why would they replace Hogg?"
"Well the other member I'm accusing is Council Member Siegrain. According to Hogg he removed him because he knew too much and apparently he has another on the Council who is conspiring against the Council as well."
"Siegrain eh, yes I do find that to be quite believable. He's always seemed off to me and the potential ally he has must be Ultear. I see now why you didn't wish to speak of this anywhere near Era."
"I hope that you can find a way to make good use of the information old timer," Natsu said as he began to stand.
"Of course I will and I appreciate the confidence. I'll fill in Maki here on all the stuff that happened in Era for you."
"Appreciate it," Natsu said with a grin as he left the room.
"Fill me in on what," Makarov asked sweating bullets.
"Well to be blunt, Natsu's going to hunt another Demon for the Council."
/Outside Natsu and Erza's House/
Natsu had been waiting for ten minutes for Erza to exit the house. He decided to wear something from his Requip Space rather than disturb Erza as she was getting ready. After a few more minutes of waiting Erza finally emerged from the house, Natsu upon noticing her nearly fainted.
Erza was in shock as she stared at Natsu. His outfit consisted of a black tuxedo which wasn't what caught her eye. Natsu had actually combed his hair. Erza couldn't be happier with Natsu's effort to dress for the occasion.
Natsu couldn't be more taken away with Erza's beauty. It was the first time he'd seen Erza in a dress and he couldn't be more impressed. She was wearing a revealing red dress, her hair was done up similar to her hair when she's in her Purgatory Armor and surprisingly she was wearing heels.
"You look stunning Erza."
"Well, you don't clean up too bad yourself."
"Shall we get going," Natsu said as he held out his right arm.
"Such a gentleman," Erza teased as she wrapped her arms around his and the two made their way to the restaurant.
The two arrived only to be met with a monstrously long line, a sight that Natsu noticed seemed to bring Erza down a little.
"Darn, looks like we'll be waiting awhile," Erza sighed only for Natsu to shake his head.
"Erza, do you really think I'd allow that," Natsu asked with a grin as the two made their way to the front of the line.
"Excuse me Sir you must wait in line like-. Oh my it's you Sir Dragneel, forgive my rudeness! Please. come this way," the man at the entrance said as the people in line began to complain.
"Wow Natsu, that's impressive."
"I couldn't have you waiting Erza, besides I told you I know everyone here."
Erza smiled and held onto Natsu's arm tightly as they were shown their seats.
"Please peruse the menu while I inform Chef Gondeu that you have arrived Sir Dragneel," a man said to which Natsu nodded.
"Wow Natsu what'd you have to do to get treated like royalty by these guys?"
"Two things, first I am a Knight of Scarlione so I automatically get pull because they are all from Scarlione and respect tradition and two-."
Natsu was cut off as a rather large man with an extremely tall chef's hat quickly made his way over to the pair.
"Natsu my old friend it's been eons," the exclaimed cheerfully, a large smile adorning his face as the two firmly clasped hands, a slight sparkle in their eyes that Erza had only seen between Natsu and Gildarts.
"Shrikke! How are you," Natsu replied back with an equally large smile. "It's been ages!"
"I'm doing better than ever thanks to you and Gildarts. After you two helped me find that ancient tome, my recipes have become legendary.
"Your cooking was already legendary Shrikke," Natsu laughed in response. "But to be able to open up one of the best restaurants in all of Fiore I don't doubt they had some killer ones stashed away in there!"
"Of course they did my friend of course, but enough about me," Shrikke replied before motioning toward Erza. "Introduce me to your lady friend, eh!?"
"Erza this is Chef Shrikke Gondue, former Head Chef of her majesty Queen Illyandra Scarlione VII. Shrikke, this is the famous Erza Scarlet.
"Famous," Erza asked with an eyebrow raised.
"But of course Erza, Natsu spoke often about you on our travels and would always talk about how he was so looking forward to seeing you once again."
"Is that so," Erza asked I reply as she looked at Natsu with a smile.
"Oh indeed for you see none of our group could match this man with a blade and yet he said he was but a novice compared to the mighty Erza."
"Wait, you actually know how to use a sword Natsu?"
"Well you didn't think that I was just gonna make a sword, imbue it with my power and not test it out," Natsu replied.
"He jests Erza, he didn't just use that sword we travelled for, he has an entire arsenal of them."
"That's right Shrikke just keep digging me a grave," Natsu sighed as Erza looked at him in shock."
"Why haven't you shown me them?"
"What, the swords? Well, we haven't really had much time to do anything since I got back let alone look at swords."
"Well, that's true," Erza agreed with a slight hint of bitterness in her voice. "Ever since you got back its been nothing but work …"
"Now I would love to converse with you more but I must get back to the kitchen. So what will the orders be eh, they're on the house?"
"Well you know what I'll have Shrikke," Natsu said.
"Of course the Breath of Salamander, named after you."
"You even have a meal named after you Natsu?"
"Well I wouldn't exactly say it's a meal many could stomach due to its intense heat but yeah it is."
"Well I'll have the Empress's Filet."
"An excellent choice and for dessert I already know what you'll be ordering Erza, the strawberry cake. Our strawberry cake is one of the best you'll find in this world so we hope you'll enjoy it. Natsu will you be having the flame fondue?"
"You know it," Natsu replied as Shrikke nodded and bolted back to the kitchen.
"Natsu, this is amazing! I've never been treated like this before."
"Consider this my way of starting to make up for all the years I kept you worried."
Erza began to tear up at Natsu's words as Natsu held her hand, the two unable to tear their eyes away from one another.
"Since when can you act so romantic?"
"To be honest, I thought I would've screwed it up by now," Natsu replied.
"Well you're doing an amazing job so far Natsu," Erza replied warmly as the two stared at each other blushing slightly.
After a few minutes of conversation Shrikke returned with the pairs meals, a third meal situated atop his Chef's hat which somehow didn't topple over despite the obvious weight to it.
"Now, I hope the two of you don't mind but I uncorked our finest wine," Shrikke beamed as he poured the pair each a glass. "Seem familiar to you Natsu?"
"Wow, never thought I'd see that again …"
"My friend if anyone should be allowed to have the first taste it should be you; after all it would still be locked away in the Scarrian Vaults if it weren't for you."
"You should really fill me in on your adventures sometime Natsu," Erza said with an amused look.
"Oh indeed Natsu, you must tell her about our raid on the Sylvarian Outskirts, best fight of my life."
"Wait, you can fight," Erza inquired as Shrikke laughed again.
"Natsu I'm disappointed, you've mentioned nothing about the Old Crew!? Yes, I am a mage myself though I've decided to run my own restaurant here in Magnolia on the request of Gildarts. Besides, a fighting chef can serve many functions on a team eh Natsu."
Erza was shocked when the Chef performed a flip in mid-air, the plate on his hat being tossed upward as Shrikke performed a serious of surprisingly swift flaming punches and kicks. She had to admit, the speed of them was something closer to the speed of Jet which meant if the attacks hit hard they no doubt would make the man a formidable opponent.
"Show-off," Natsu snickered as the man caught the plate with his hat without even looking at it. "Mind you, looks like you've actually gotten faster, somehow."
"Naturally I've gotten stronger," Shrikke scoffed. "After all, my work in the kitchen is in itself a vigourous form of training. But enough from this aged Chef, I've taken up enough time old friend. Come back when you're free and we'll have a proper contest like the old days."
"You know I can't refuse food old man," Natsu replied with a grin as the man left.
The two began to eat their meals and spoke about random topics from random gossip to the food and naturally the finer points of strawberry cake.
"Hey Natsu, I was wondering about something."
"What's up."
"Talking with Shrikke made me think, who else was with you on these adventures of yours?"
Natsu simply sighed and placed his fork on the plate before taking another sip of the wine.
"There were eight of us in total. Me, Gildarts, Shrikke the Cook, Solomon the Battlemage, Alyssa the Traps Expert, Felix our Telepath, Frollo the Queen's Stalwart Shield as he loves to be called and finally Queen Illyandra VII."
"Wait, the Queen was a part of your team!? What the hell were you doing!?"
"The job that Gildarts got from the request board," Natsu replied as he stared at the nearly empty wine glass.
"So what was the mission anyway, I asked Gildarts a few times and he just said to ask you."
"Yeah that'd be his way of punishing me I guess. Well I guess I can tell you, did you notice how Gildarts has a metal arm and leg now?"
"Yes I assumed something bad happened while you two were on your journey."
"Yeah well the target on the job did that to him."
"Who was the target," Erza asked quietly.
"A Black Dragon was harassing the area near the capital of Scarlione. We took the job to kill it, well let's just say we failed," Natsu sighed as he held his head down.
"A Black Dragon, Natsu you don't mean-."
"Yeah THAT Black Dragon, Acnologia the Apocalypse Dragon. He was spotted in Scarlione though it wasn't until after we left the country that we encountered him properly in the incident that Gildarts lost his arm and leg."
Erza stared at Natsu in shock. She knew he would have gone through things that no normal person could live through on a century quest but to face Acnologia was unbelievable.
"Gildarts and I were lucky to escape with our lives and to be honest I'm not even sure how we did to be brutally honest," Natsu sighed. "I just feel bad that Gildarts ended up getting maimed like that because I wasn't able to slay the bastard."
"Natsu you can't blame yourself, you fought the Dragon of the Apocalypse and survived that's more than almost anyone can say."
"True, but Gildarts still got hurt regardless and being a Dragon Slayer I failed in my own magic even after all the years of training."
"Natsu," was all Erza could say as she held his hand.
"That's enough moping out of you Natsu," Shrikke roared as he emerged from the kitchen.
The man made his way over to him with a serious look on his face, a look that had Natsu inwardly cringing.
"Do you really think you're the only one suffering boy, hell we all are! But do you see me sitting around moping about what happened, or Gildarts? And if anyone has the right to mope out of all of us it's Felix!"
"What happened to Felix," Erza asked Natsu with a concerned look.
"Whilst Acnologia was still in Scarlione he forced his way into Felix's mind while the rest of us were communicating with him. We were all gravely wounded, but as one last sick act he drove Felix mad using our pain. We had to leave him at the palace with the Queen because he was too unstable to return to regular society."
Erza was completely shocked at what Natsu had said. Shrikke however, continued to speak.
"Natsu, I understand your problems but you need to try and move on. You know Illyandra said she would summon all of us back if a cure for Felix was ever discovered. Please try not to dwell on the past eh."
"Yeah your right Shrikke, it's just hard thinking about all the good times we had and knowing they lead to that."
Natsu stood from his chair and extended his arm for Erza to which she latched onto. Looking back toward the Chef, the pair shared a look as the Chef decided to say one last thing.
"I'm trying Natsu, Gildarts is trying … Surely if we can then you can too …?"
"Trust me Shrikke, I'm trying," Natsu said as the two began to walk out. "Maybe one day we'll finally be free?"
"I hope so boy," Shrikke whispered as he pulled back his right sleeve to reveal a massive gouge that had been taken out of his arm. "I truly do …"
/Natsu and Erza's House/
The two had made their way back home in silence. Once they reached the front door Natsu opened it and the two made their way inside.
"I'm sorry Erza, I ruined our night," Natsu said as he began to head upstairs before Erza's hand latched onto his arm.
"You didn't ruin it Natsu, honestly it was one of the best nights of my life. I mean sure I learned about some awful things that have happened to you but I'm glad that you were willing to trust me with that knowledge."
Natsu stared down at Erza with a loving gaze. "Erza listen I-."
Before Natsu had a chance Erza had cleared the gap between them and brought Natsu in for a passionate kiss.
Natsu was in complete shock, unable to register the situation that was unfolding. He subconsciously kissed her back, placing a hand on her cheek as she ran a hand through the back of his hair. Eventually however, the two needed to break for air and slowly separated, a thin trail of saliva between them.
"Natsu, I can't deny my feelings for you any longer," Erza panted with a fierce bush as Natsu finally came to his senses.
"I think we both feel the same way then," Natsu replied shakily as the two stared at each other.
"Then ask Natsu, take the chance," Erza murmured as Natsu brought her closer to him.
"Erza, do you want to be my girlfriend?"
Erza simply smiled and brought him in for another kiss; one that Natsu was ready for this time.
"I won't let you down Erza," Natsu whispered in her ear as the two stood at the bottom of the stairs hugging.
"You never have you idiot," she replied softly.
"Come on, we'd better get some rest since we have a lot to do tomorrow."
"Yeah I know, but how do you want to handle our relationship?"
"I don't care who knows Erza, as long as you're happy then I'm happy."
"I was hoping you'd say that, I need to let the others know you're off limits."
"Wait what others," Natsu asked confused as Erza led him to their bed.
"Leave your torn clothes on the chair there and I'll deal with them when we get back."
"Still can't believe you can sew."
"Still can't believe you can be romantic."
"Still can't believe you actually said yes."
"Natsu if anything I would've said yes if you had asked me any time since you got back."
"Are you serious!?"
Erza Requiped into her pyjamas and snuggled into him, "Of course I would've silly."
"Well then, I'll try to return the confidence," Natsu said as he kissed Erza on the forehead.
"Night Erza."
"Night Natsu."
/Galuna Island – Deliora's Chamber/
"The thawing process is almost complete," a strange man said as he stared at the frozen form of the Demon known as Deliora.
"Soon Ur, soon I'll avenge you," another man said as he stared at the frozen Demon, a look of disgust in his eyes.
"He's avenging her out of love," a pink haired girl gushed only for another man to snort in response.
"Do you ever stop talking about love," a blue haired man snapped coldly as the girl looked at him.
"How dare you treat the power of love that way!"
"Enough, the both of you," the white-haired man said as he approached them.
"Lyon, you know how annoying she can be."
"I don't care right now; just make sure the thawing process isn't interrupted. This is the final stage and it should be done relatively soon."
"Of course," the two said in unison as they left the chamber.
"All according to plan," a female voice whispered as she disappeared into the night.
(Edited 01/11/18)
(Edited 31/12/20)
(Edited 10/06/22)