(Edited 18/11/18)

(Edited 31/12/20)

(Edited 10/06/22)

I do not own Fairy Tail Hiro Mashima does.

Galuna The Island of Demons

/Natsu's POV/

Natsu let out a slight groan as he slowly began to open his eyes and adjusted to the morning rays streaming through his bedroom window. Following the rays Natsu smiled as he saw the beautiful form of Erza lying next to him.

'Such a shame to have to wake such a perfect creature but duty calls,' Natsu mentally sighed as he placed his hand lightly on her shoulder in an attempt to rouse Erza from her slumber.

Erza let out a rather cute yawn as her eyes fluttered open and locked straight onto the Dragon Slayer's smiling form bringing one to her own features as she remembered the previous night.

"Good morning Natsu, but can I ask why you decided to disturb me from a rather pleasant dream I was having?

"I wouldn't have woken you normally but uh I kind of need to get up and …"

"Get up," Erza asked before realising her arms were wrapped around Natsu's chest. "Oh …"

"I wouldn't mind being here longer but I need to catch Gray at the guild before he runs off on another job."

Erza released her grip on Natsu as the pink haired Slayer stood up and walked over to the desk at the end of the room. Stretching slightly as he let out a rather obnoxious yawn, Natsu sent a cheeky grin in her direction prompting Erza to giggle and shake her head.

"I see someone is rather annoyed to be up," Erza responded playfully. "But anyway, what's this about Gray?"

"I've been thinking about it since we left the Council yesterday and I've decided its probably for the best that we bring him along on the Deliora job."

"Are you sure he's ready to take on a Demon, he got beat up pretty bad by that Erigor guy?"

"Well, I'm bringing him for two reasons. The first is that I do think he'd be fine on an S Class mission like this with us. I genuinely think it'd be a good experience for him. But the second reason, which you might not agree with me on is that he needs to face Deliora."

"Why would he need to fight Deliora Natsu?"

"Well I don't know if he ever told you about his past, but Deliora is the Demon that killed his family and his Master."

"And you want to drag him into that type of situation," Erza asked confused.

"But Erza, what right do we have to keep him from having a hand in beating it? Besides, since he's fought it before he might know a thing or two about it?"

"Well I don't think it's a good idea but I do see your point. And the two of us will be there to help him."

"Yeah, I'd hate to see what Gray would do if he found out we went off to fight Deliora and didn't let him in on it," Natsu sighed as he began to make his way to the door.

"Going to the guild dressed like that," Erza giggled as Natsu looked down to realise he was shirtless.

"Oh right, but uh … the clothes you bought me are ruined."

"Natsu, we bought you several sets of clothes remember?"

"Wait, we did? I can't remember?"

"I'll get you something to wear then," Erza said as she opened the wardrobe and pulled out a set of clothes. "Honestly, you really are hopeless sometimes."

"Well, they don't look too bad I guess."

"This time I picked ones that I don't mind getting ruined, since we'll be fighting a Demon after all."

"Yeah yeah, I get it, I'm sorry that my clothes got wrecked ok."

"Natsu it's not about the clothes ok, well maybe a little but still wasn't there anything you could've done to prevent all those tears?"

"Maybe who knows, what you should really be thinking is that the opponents I was fighting broke through my Crash Barrier to do that."

"Oh … I didn't even think about that, sorry."

"Look, I actually liked those clothes too you know, let's see if these look any better on me."

Natsu went into the bathroom to change while Erza just Requiped into her usual Heart Kreuz armor.

"Well those don't look too bad," Erza said with an approving nod.

"They're a bit plain though don't you think?"

"Hmm. Well since your jacket isn't torn, I guess you could wear that over that shirt."

"Yeah I'm really starting to like this jacket," Natsu said as he wrapped his scarf around his neck.

"Shame we don't have anything gold or red, all black does kind of suit you though, makes you look more intimidating," Erza said with a slight blush.

Natsu simply smiled as he instantly appeared behind her as he picked her up off the ground, prompting a squeal from Erza.

"Natsu put me down," Erza said between her giggling.

Natsu cleared the stairs in the house, leaping through the open window on the second floor to land on part of the lower roof outside. With his swift speed, Natsu then began jumping from rooftop to rooftop all the while the pair giggled like a bunch of children.

Eventually, the pair arrived at the bottom steps where Natsu finally put her down. The two took a moment to stifle their laughter before Erza placed her hands on her hips, delivering a mock pout.

"Was that really necessary?"

"Oh, right, sorry. Serious face," Natsu said sarcastically as he made a silly face.

Erza could only laugh. She hadn't seen Natsu act light-hearted since before he left all those years ago, it was honestly refreshing to see.

"Come on Natsu, we need to see Gray."

"Right," Natsu replied, still grinning as the two made their way to the Guild Hall, arm in arm, each having smiles on their faces.

The duo arrived at the Guild Hall several minutes later, having opted to take the stairs slowly. Walking inside, the two were surprised when the entire place fell silent.

"What's up with me silencing you guys lately? Honestly, if you all keep going silent when I come in Erza will think I'm stealing her thunder," Natsu joked as the guild immediately erupted back into its usual cheer and banter with the pair making their way toward the bar where Gildarts was attempting to drain it dry.

"Oi Gildarts, what are ya drinking?"

"Oh, you're back already huh? Well, I swiped this from the basement it's the strongest stuff the guild has."

"You swiped it did you," a dark voice asked from behind the counter.

"Uh well you see I uh," Gildarts began to stutter as Natsu took the bottle.

"I've gotta try this," Natsu said with a gleam in his eyes as he began to chug the bottle.

"Hey kid, that's strong stuff you … Probably shouldn't do that."

"He's right Natsu that's over forty percent pure alcohol," Mira said as she walked over, concerned for the Dragon Slayer.

"Nah, I'll be fine. Only a certain types of stuff can get me wasted. Besides I have a job to do today so I can't afford to get trashed now," Natsu said as he handed Gildarts an empty bottle.

"Oh gee, thanks ya prick," Gildarts snapped prompting Natsu to spin around on the spot.

"What'd you say old geezer!?"

"I ain't old you little shit!"

"I may not be able to fight anyone in the guild but I'll kick your ass!"

The two mages continued to fling insults at each other, worrying the rest of the guild as the floor around them began to crack under the pressure of their magic power.

"Cut it out Natsu," Erza said as she dragged him off.

"This ain't over," Natsu yelled at the Crash Mage before Erza sat him down at a table.

"What was that all about?"

"Bastard wouldn't share his drink with me," Natsu whined almost childishly.

Erza sighed as she shook her head. "Well at least you only fight Gildarts and not everyone otherwise we'd have to expand the infirmary."

"Hold up a minute Erza Gray just walked in," Natsu said pointing to the Ice Make Mage at the door. "Oi Gray, get over here!"

"Back already huh," Gray asked with a smug grin, taking a seat opposite the pair.

"Got another job I want to take you on and I guarantee you won't say no."

"Is that right? Well, this better be important Natsu, I'm still a bit sore from that last job."

"Well, it's only some Demon, Deliora I think his name was …"

"Deliora, you'd better not be screwing with me Natsu you know what this means to me!"

Erza pulled out an S Class job flyer and gave it to Gray. "This enough proof for you Gray?"

Gray looked at the job request before facing the two. "Thanks for bringing on this one guys; it means a lot to me."

"Look man, you did good on that Eisenwald thing so who better to bring huh," Natsu said with a grin.

"So when are we heading out?"

"In twenty minutes, we need to meet at the station and I need to get a few things together."

"Right. Well, I'll see you guys at the station then," Gray replied with a grin as he ran out of the guild.

"I'll go and get the tickets to Hargeon, but that doesn't solve the boat ride."

"We'll deal with that when we get there Erza."

"Right. Well, I'm off. I'll see you at the station," Erza smiled as she leaned in and kissed Natsu on the forehead with a sly grin.

The guild fell deathly silent, none having expected the great and fearsome Titania to ever perform such an action, not in a million years. As she left, Natsu couldn't help but chuckle lightly at the slight skip in her step.

"Should've known she'd do something like that," Natsu sighed as Mira ran over to him.

"Natsu, oh my God! Are you two dating!? Come on, I need details," Mira squealed prompting Natsu to sigh again.

"Look, I have a job I have to go on now so can this wait until I get back?"

"Fine! But I want proper details," Mira pouted bringing a small grin to Natsu's face at her antics.

"By the way could you pick out some good jobs for Elise to do while we're gone? All she's done is crap for us and she hasn't made any cash since she joined."

"Sure, I can do that. But what types of jobs would she be good at?"

"Well … honestly, she could probably do any job if Eliza were in control. But since she isn't S Class and there won't be any S Class wizards here who could take her just nab the highest paying regular jobs Mira."

Natsu looked at Mira who looked like she was about to pass out as Natsu quickly rose to steady the white haired barmaid.

"Oi Mira are you ok?"

"He's back," was all Mira sighed tiredly before she passing out in his arms.

Other thuds could be heard around the room as everyone in the guild quickly joined Mira in her slumber. Sniffing the air, his eyes narrowed as he felt the effects of Sleep Magic trying to knock him out.

"Calm down Natsu, it's not an enemy," Gildarts said waving his hand in a calming gesture as a smirk made its way onto his face. "Now then time to capitalize on this."

Gildarts leant over the counter to the bar and began to pour himself free drinks and skulling them just as quick. Natsu then realized Makarov was still awake, following the example of the Crash Mage.

"Indeed Natsu its Mystogan," Makarov sighed as he took another drink from his mug.

"Mystogan," Natsu asked confused.

"I would also like to know who this Mystogan fellow is," Eliza said as she came down from the guild rafters.

"Figures you'd be immune to this magic," Gildarts said with a laugh.

"This magic is strange, almost otherworldly," Eliza said before the doors opened and a cloaked figure walked in.

"Interesting, seems the wizards in Fairy Tail are getting quite strong," Mystogan said as he approached the group.

"Mind telling me why you knocked out the guild," Natsu asked slightly annoyed.

"I simply don't want other people knowing my identity, nothing more."

"Why though, you can't look too bad?"

"Drop it Natsu," Makarov sighed as he took another sip.

"Its fine Master, after all it's the first time Natsu has seen me. By the way I heard you made S Class, congratulations."

"Thanks, I guess. Though it'd help if you took off the damn mask."

Mystogan sighed as he made his way up the stairs and took an S Class Quest from the board, walking back down and holding it out for Makarov to see.

"Is this one fine Master?"

"Yeah … I'll have Mira mark it down when you leave."

"Thank you Master, and here is the job that I completed," Mystogan said as he handed a completed S Class Quest flyer to Makarov.

"So I'm guessing you like to do solo jobs huh Mystogan," Natsu said with an amused tone.

"Well occasionally I get assistance on some jobs but for the most part yes. I've heard good things about you though Natsu, maybe we could go on a job one day?"

Natsu grinned at the mage as he motioned to the door.

"Yeah sounds like fun, but you've gotta finish what you started first so get moving."

This got a laugh from Gildarts and Eliza as Mystogan chuckled lightly before making his way to the door.

"Nice to meet you too Natsu," the man said in a slightly amused tone.

"Yeah yeah. And remember to lift your sleep spell on the way out pal," Natsu said grinning.

Mystogan began to walk out of the room and began counting down from five until he was out of sight and the mist lifted.

"How come you got all the attention," Eliza pouted as everyone stared at her amused.

"Do I detect a hint of jealousy from you Eliza," Natsu teased as she hit him over the head.

"Nothing of the sort you fool, I am a Goddess and have no such feelings."

"Right, sure you don't. Anyway, since you're here I should probably tell you I'm having Mira pick out some jobs for Elise to do."

"Is that so, and what might these jobs be?"

"How should I know I've got ten minutes to be at the station so ask Mira she can help you out."

"Oh and where might you be going dear?"

"Just off to fight another Demon, usual stuff. I thought Elise might want some money to pay her rent this month so that's what the jobs are for."

"Well now isn't that kind of you dear, I'm sure Elise will be thrilled."

"That's cool, well I'm off," Natsu said as he raced out of the guild.

The guild had begun to wake up from the mist as everyone began to look around dazed and confused.

"That Mystogan always causing a mess," Mira sighed as she saw all the spilt drinks and food around the hall.

"God damn Mystogan, a real man would show his face to the guild," Elfman roared as he punched Loke in the face.

"Oww what the hell you idiot," Loke yelled as he returned the punch.

Pretty soon the majority of the guild was in a brawl as the Master, Gildarts, Eliza and Mira simply sighed.

"You're Mira, correct," Eliza asked as she turned to Mira.

"Yep, that's me," Mira said as she ducked to avoid a bottle that was thrown.

"Natsu told me that you had some jobs for Elise to do."

"Oh of course you must be the God that is Elise's Mother then?"

"Indeed I am dear," she replied with a smile.

"Well come with me and I'll get the two of you all set up," Mira said as she motioned towards the regular quest board.

"Well then I guess I'll be seeing you guys later," Natsu said as he made his way toward the door before turning around with a cheeky grin on his face. "By the way Mira, Gildarts was swiping free drinks while everyone was passed out."

The look of utter horror on Gildart's face as Mira's unnerving smiling form loomed over him to such a degree that even Eliza took a step back in surprise.

"Now I trust you will be paying for every last drop you took won't you Gildarts, after all we're all one big happy family that would NEVER take things without providing the appropriate compensation?"

Natsu grinned as he left Gildarts to his fate and made his way back home to prepare for the S Class Quest.

/Port Of Hargeon – Docks/

Several hours later the trio arrived at the Port of Hargeon and began to search for someone to take them to Galuna Island. After inquiring with the various sailors at the docks, the group quickly began to realize that no one was willing to take them to the supposedly 'cursed' island.

"We'll get there Gray so calm down," Erza sighed as he punched a barrel.

"That's the fifth person who's said they won't take us to the damn island!"

"Gray, there's heaps more boats here, worst case scenario we can always just … borrow one," Natsu said with a sly grin.

"A boat to Galuna you say," a voice said from behind them.

"Yeah, you offering a ride," Natsu asked as the man stared at him blankly.

"Perhaps, but tell me what your business is on the island?"

"Here, read this pal and it'll tell you all you need," Natsu replied as he handed the man the flyer.

The man read the flyer over, his eyes narrowing on certain parts and raising with others. Eventually, the man hummed and with a small nod looked up at the small group.

"I can take you to the island, but I have one simple request."

"Of course Sir, please tell us what you need," Erza said.

"You see I am a native of Galuna and my people are suffering. If I take you to the island I would ask that you please help them, talk to the chief he knows what needs to be done."

"That sounds fair," Natsu agreed in response as he held out his hand to shake the man's hand.

"You've got a deal then wizards, oh and my names Bobo by the way."

"Names Natsu, that's Erza, the popsicle is Gray," Natsu replied quickly as Gray grumbled over his nickname.

"Thank you for agreeing to help my people," Bobo said as they made their way onto his boat.

"It's the least we can do for you taking us to the island, the other sailors seemed afraid to go near it," Erza said.

"Well there's been a string of bad incidents recently relating to the island; as a result most people don't want to go near Galuna."

"Well that's interesting," Natsu sighed as he sat down next to Erza.

"Anyway the trip should only be a few short hours so if you want to have a nap or something then now's the time," Bobo said as Natsu's head found its way onto Erza's lap.

"Hope you don't mind but I'm gonna have a little nap Erza?"

"It's fine Natsu sleep well," Erza replied as Natsu's vision slowly went black.

Several hours later Natsu began to feel a hand lightly running through his hair as his eyes slowly cracked open to see Erza's smiling face looking down at him.

"Sleep well Natsu," Erza asked softly as Natsu nodded.

"Best I've had in years thanks to you Erza," Natsu said with a smile.

"What the hell is up with you two," Gray asked with an eyebrow raised.

"Oh yeah you weren't there were you," Natsu said with a sly grin as he looked up at Erza.

"I told everyone right after you left Gray, Natsu and I are together now," Erza said as she smiled at Natsu.

"WAIT WHAT, Natsu hasn't even been back two weeks what the hell," Gray yelled astonished.

"Hah! The look on your face Gray," Natsu chuckled out as Erza began to giggle.

"Well I guess that explains why Erza moved in with you then."

"Well to be honest I wasn't really given much of a- OOF!"

Gray winced as Erza's metal clad fist met Natsu's ribcage as the Dragon Slayer fell onto the floor in an undignified heap.

"Anyway the two of us are together so now you know."

"Right, well I guess that means the two of you are gonna become the powerhouse duo of the guild?"

"Actually, I've been meaning to talk to you about that Gray," Natsu said as he sat up.

"This should be good."

"I wanna form a team. Me, you, Erza and Elise, after how we handled the Eisenwald incident I think it'd be a great idea."

"That's an interesting idea Natsu," Erza hummed as she nodded in agreement.

"Oh man could you imaging the look on gramps face, it'd be priceless," Gray laughed as he imagined the old man's hair falling out on the spot.

"So, what do you guys think? Wanna form a team?"

"I'm in," Gray said with a thumbs up.

"You know I'll do it Natsu," Erza agreed with a curt nod.

"Now we've just gotta ask Elise when we get back."

"I have a feeling she'd agree Natsu," Erza said as she placed a hand on top of Natsu's head.

"You lot done chatting back there, we've arrived," Bobo said as he walked up to the group.

"Thanks again for the ride here, we'll be sure to help out your village" Natsu said

"Thank you Fairy Tail wizards I'm sure the chief will reward you for your efforts."

"Come on guys we've got a job to do," Gray said as he jumped onto the shore.

/Galuna Island/

"So, this is Galuna Island huh," Natsu mused as the three began to disembark.

"It's quite beautiful isn't it Natsu," Erza said as she grabbed Natsu's hand, the pair both jumping off at the same time.

"Hey Bobo, where's your village?"

"If you head into the forest over there you'll find a dirt road. Follow that dirt road and it will lead you to my village. If the chief doesn't let you in right away let him know I sent you."

"Thanks Bobo," Natsu replied with a wave as the group made their way into the forest.

"So what do you think the village wants done," Gray asked curiously. "He knows we came here to do an S Class Mission, right? Surely he knows that whatever he wants us to do it'll have to wait until after?"

"Beats me man but we have to help them out regardless so who knows what kind of reward we could get in exchange," Natsu replied as they saw the outline of the village up ahead. "Maybe they can even help us with the Deliora job?"

"Natsu … A bunch of villagers don't stand a chance against that monster."

"You idiot, I meant directions to where he is or something geez," Natsu replied as he rolled his eyes in amusement.

"That's enough you two, I can see the village entrance," Erza said as she pointed to a wooden fence.

"Halt outsiders, leave this place at once," an elderly voice boomed from atop the village gate.

"We're wizards of Fairy Tail, a man named Bobo sent us," Natsu replied as the figure seemed to turn to another person behind him.

"Bobo you say, show us your marks."

The three revealed their guild marks, the figure remaining silent before turning around to converse with whoever it was that stood behind him. After several moments, the gates to the village swung open to admit them.

"Welcome to our village Fairy Tail wizards," a small, purplish looking creature said with a grim smile. "My name is Moka, I am the Chieftain of this village."

"Hi there, I'm Natsu. This is Erza and Gray, we're here to help you with a problem Bobo said you've got."

"Thank goodness … Someone can finally free us of this curse!"

"Curse?"

"Yes, the job I have for you is to destroy the moon!"

"You want us to … destroy the moon?"

"Yes. If you look at the purple ray of light, it comes from the moon."

"And why exactly is that a bad thing?"

"The moon curses us with these forms you see us in now, please destroy it and remove the curse placed upon my people."

Natsu stood there in silence as he made up his mind, Erza and Gray stared at him waiting for a response.

"Fine, we'll help, but we need to get to the source of the light before we decide to destroy anything ok?"

"That is acceptable," Moka replied as the villagers burst into celebratory cheers.

"Alright, we will head out immediately Sir," Erza said as she dragged Natsu and Gray with her.

"Can you believe that crackpot," Gray scoffed once they were a considerable distance away from the village. "Who the hell even asks someone to do something like that!?"

"Though Moka's request was … odd, you handled it perfectly in my opinion," Erza said, putting her two cents in.

"Erza, the guy wants us to destroy the moon; I only did what a normal person would do."

"Natsu just shoot a roar at the moon and be done with it," Gray said with a grin as the trio began to laugh.

"If I'm right that might be all it takes."

"I see you picked up on that too Natsu."

"What am I missing here guys?"

"That light isn't natural Gray, look at the moon and then look at the purple light."

"Now that you mention it Erza, the light isn't in line with the moon …"

"Which means someone's using a powerful spell here."

"Could be related to Deliora," Gray growled as he looked up at the light.

"Guys, we need to check out the centre of the light," Natsu said firmly as he motioned for the group to follow him as he broke out into a light jog.

"Natsu's right, we need to get moving."

"Sooner we sort this out the sooner we can find Deliora!"

"Calm down Gray, we're working on it. Now let's go," Erza said as the group made their way to the light.

The group soon arrived near the light and came across an ancient looking temple, the purple light seemingly focused down through a large hole at the centre.

"Well, this doesn't look shady at all."

"No shit ice for brains …"

"You seriously trying to start something now Natsu?"

"Nah I'm just bored- hold up we're not alone."

"What is it Natsu?"

"There's three of them, can't make out where they are though. There's a weird scent in the air and it's messing with my nose."

"Keep your guard up guys, we don't know which direction these guys are gonna come from."

"That's ok Gray, we'll come to you," a voice said from the top of the temple.

The group looked up and spotted four figures standing near the pillar of light, a look of recognition flitting across Gray's face as he made eyes on the lead figure.

"You've gotta be freakin kidding me, Lyon what the hell are you doing here," shouted Gray.

"You know that guy Gray," Erza asked, prompting the Ice Make Mage to nod in response.

"Yeah, Ur had two disciples remember. Me … and him."

"You still consider yourself Ur's student Gray, after what you did," the man growled in response to Gray's statement. "You have some nerve!"

"Screw you Lyon, Deliora killed Ur! Not me!"

"Keep telling yourself that but it won't change the facts! I know why the three of you are here and I won't allow you to interfere!"

"Wait, so you're involved with freeing Deliora," Gray growled as he clenched his fists. "Ur would be disgusted with you! You know just as well as I do what the Iced Shell is, how could you do this to her!"

"I'm doing it to AVENGE her Gray! With Sherry, Yuka and Toby … I can put an end to Deliora, just like Ur wanted!"

"You're insane Lyon! Your little group isn't anywhere near strong enough to take on Deliora and you know it!"

"And what, yours is Gray!? Why do you always think your way is right when time and again you do nothing but fail!?"

"Look, I made mistakes in my past Lyon, but I learnt from Ur's example! What you're doing will ruin the thing she sacrificed herself for!"

"That's enough of this shit," Natsu said as he stepped forward.

"Who do you think you are?"

"Names Natsu pal, I don't know the history between the two of you and I don't really wanna. But from what I can tell the four of you are behind this crap with Deliora which means we need to take you guys down."

"I agree with Natsu," Erza cut in as she looked over at the furious Ice Mage. "Gray, I know you have a past with this man but we have a job to do and that comes first."

"At least let me take Lyon then Erza?"

"We'll give you a chance Gray but our priority is Deliora and the problem the village has, remember?"

"Erza, Gray I'm going on ahead, you guys can deal with these clowns," Natsu said suddenly which put the enemy across from them on guard.

"What the hell flame brain, chickening out on the fight already!"

"Shut it Gray! Natsu, you can tell us what's going on after all this."

"Right. And Erza, take this," Natsu said as he pulled an object out of his Requip Space.

"What is it?"

"It's got my magic infused into it. It's a special lacrima that is designed to fit in the armor I made for you."

"What does it do?"

"Hopefully you won't need to use it, but it will unlock a stage of the armor I've sealed away for now."

"Why'd you seal it?"

"Because it isn't regular Fire Dragon Slayer Magic in there like the armor. It's got my Fire Dragon King Magic in it, it's easy to lose control of and as you've seen it tends to explode a lot. Don't use it unless you have to."

"I won't," Erza promised as Natsu disappeared.

"What, where did the pink haired one go," Lyon gasped as the group looked around frantically. "Is he using some kind of Speed Magic!?"

Lyon was stunned when Yuka suddenly collapsed unconscious right next to him, the attacker clearly being the pink haired mage who vanished and yet not a single sign of him could be found anywhere.

"Damn pyro, just has to show off," Gray sighed prompting Erza to smirk.

"Natsu just made our job easier Gray, guess that means you can take your friend over there."

Gray grinned as he prepared to fight. "Guess I owe Natsu one when we get back to the guild."

"You think that we're just gonna let you ruin Lyon's plans like this aroo," Toby howled as he drew his claws.

"Indeed, we'll show these fools the power of love," Sherry said as she summoned a golem.

"I'll deal with these two Gray, go take care of Lyon."

Gray charged at Lyon as the two made their way into the temple," firing off Ice Make Magic all the while.

"Guess it's just the three of us then," Erza said with a smile.

"You think you can take on the two of us, how silly," Sherry said as she ordered her golem to charge Erza.

"Requip – Sea Empress Armor!" Erza was engulfed in light and appeared in her new armor with a sword in hand.

"Go and beat her love," Sherry cried as the golem came in for a strike.

"Raging Squallstrike," Erza yelled as she slashed the golem vertically and left a gash right down the middle.

"What, how were you able to damage my precious golem!"

"This is my Sea Empress Sword; it allows me to slice through things vulnerable to water. And your golem is made of earth."

"Aroo, shouldn't leave your back turned," Toby yelled as he made for the back of Erza's head with his claws.

"Such a fool," Erza sighed as she lazily ducked and kicked Toby in the head sending him back a few feet.

The golem finally recovered from Erza's attack and began to charge her again. Erza slashed the golem horizontally, cutting its legs clean off.

Toby recovered and took another slash at Erza which she blocked easily with her sword.

"The two of you are outmatched; surrender now and you won't be harmed!"

"You think we'll defy Lyon, you've got another thing coming Fairy and after what you did to my precious golem I'll make sure you pay!"

Erza sighed and shook her head. She knew she had to deal with these two and help Gray.

"Listen you two; I don't have time to deal with this so I'll be ending this now."

"Don't underestimate us aroo!"

"Yeah we won't let Lyon down, let's get her Toby!"

"Requip – Flame Empress Armor." Erza emerged from the light that had engulfed her with her Flame Sword in hand.

Toby and Sherry rushed Erza but were suddenly engulfed in fire. With a few swift strikes Toby and Sherry were knocked unconscious.

"Well that takes care of that, now to find Gray," Erza said as she Requiped back into her regular armor.

/Gray's POV/

"Ice Make – Freeze Lancer!"

"Ice Make – Eagles!"

The two Ice Make mages fired volleys of ice constructs at each other which cancelled each other out.

"Not bad Gray but not good enough," Lyon said as he motioned behind Gray.

"Huh what the hell are you-," Gray was cut off as a large fist made of ice smashed into his side, sending him flying into a nearby wall.

"You never were the brightest one Gray but I thought you would have at least learnt how to be aware of your surroundings."

Gray slowly got to his feet, clutching his ribs. "Pretty sure Ur also taught us to use both hands for our magic so it'd be stronger but you didn't pay attention to that."

"My form of Ice Make is far superior to yours Gray; it allows me to do more than one thing, things like this!"

Lyon raised his hands as more eagles made of ice flew out of his left hand while the ice construct behind him began to move again.

"Like it Gray it's my Ice Make Ape, good for when brute strength is required."

"Looks like a half made pile of crap to me," Gray grunted as he dodged the eagles being hurled in his direction.

"Stop delaying the inevitable Gray, Deliora will be revived and then I'll have my revenge!"

"You always were an arrogant bastard Lyon; you think that you stand a chance against Deliora? You saw what Ur was forced to do to stop it and she was stronger than we are now put together!"

"Enough Gray, I've surpassed Ur and I will use this power to avenge her!"

Gray began to stance up again but before he could use his next spell Lyon's Ape grabbed him.

"Once again Gray remember your surroundings," Lyon chided. "I didn't want it to come to this but I have no choice since you choose to stand against me."

Lyon raised his hand to meet Gray's chest as he let loose several eagles which made contact quickly.

Gray grit his teeth as he endured the pain, an endless stream of eagles piercing his chest.

"Stubborn to the end Gray, fine I'll end it then," Lyon said as he made a sword of ice and began to walk towards him.

"If ... Ur cou...could see you now Lyon she'd be…ashamed," Gray said weakly between breaths as Lyon walked closer.

"As if you have the right to speak of Ur after what you did Gray, but since you're going to die I won't deny you your last words?"

"Gray looked up into Lyon's eyes, searching for any scrap of the boy he once knew.

"You won't find it Grey, the old Lyon died when Ur did."

"Fine but…I have one last thing to…to say."

"Fine what is it Gray?"

Gray looked up at the man and smiled, blood covering his face. "Always check your surroundings!"

Lyon had no time to react as ice began to cover the entire room. Gray's hands began to light up as he forced his arms into an X formation.

"GRAY YOU WON'T YOU…YOU CAN'T," Lyon screamed as Gray simply smiled.

"Taking you out is the only way, was gonna do this on Deliora if he was free when we got here but since you're the cause then you'll have to do."

"You know the consequences of the Iced Shell, its suicide! Are you really able to do it!?"

"I was ready the moment Ur died," Gray yelled in response as the temperature in the room began to rapidly decrease, a large amount of ice slowly beginning to build up.

"Gray stop this, you're crazy!"

"Goodbye Lyon," Gray said as he closed his eyes and thought about his friends before a fiery fist knocked him out of his stance and into a wall.

"What the fu-." Gray's eyes widened as he saw Natsu standing there and surrounding him a raging inferno of fire.

"You ain't gonna last long in S Class pulling stunts like that Gray," Natsu said calmly as he kept his eyes on Lyon.

"Natsu what are you doing, I need to stop Lyon now!"

"Gray, did you already forget the mission?"

"To stop Deliora, yeah I know!"

"No, it wasn't to stop Deliora, it was to EXTERMINATE Deliora. You really must've gotten knocked around quite a bit."

"If that is truly your goal … then why fight with us," Lyon asked confused.

"Simple, because the four of you a trying to bring back a Demon of Zeref. We can't let that go unpunished."

"But that's-." Lyon barely had time to react as Natsu punched him in the face and sent him into a nearby wall.

"That's for what you were doing to Gray ya bastard."

"Natsu I'm…..I'm sorry."

"For what, you were willing to put your life on the line for what you believe in, nothing wrong with that. Erza's probably gonna kill me if she sees me near you when you look like that, hang around here with your pal since Erza's on her way down."

"Where are you going?"

"There's a fifth person here, someone I think I know, so I'm gonna look for them."

"Ok … Well once Erza gets here we're gonna look for the chamber Deliora's in."

"Yeah that's cool; don't start the party without me."

"Yeah yeah," Gray sighed as Lyon finally got out of the crater in the wall.

"You're done pal, just take it easy ok."

Lyon looked at Natsu with a mixture of anger, disappointment, fear and frustration as he disappeared from sight.

"How is that guy so strong?"

"Simple Lyon, he cares about people, his friends and family. He has a drive to fight for something greater than himself, something you don't have."

"I don't understand Gray," Lyon replied with a lost look. Gray simply laughed in response only to begin coughing up blood.

"After this is sorted, go figure it out yourself."

"Perhaps Gray, perhaps."

A few minutes later Erza arrived to see Gray half beaten to death on the ground with Lyon sitting on the edge of a giant crater.

"Is it over Gray," Erza asked as she looked at Lyon.

"I couldn't fight anymore even if I wanted to. Your friend seems to know how to quickly disable a Maker Mage. My hands are broken and even producing a small spell would hurt beyond belief."

"So Natsu was here then?"

"Yeah he said he sensed a fifth person and went off to find em."

"Well, at least you're alright Gray," Erza said as she offered him her hand.

"Right well we need to get going to Deliora's chamber, Natsu said he'd meet us there."

"Right lets head out, oh and Lyon was it?"

"Yes," replied Lyon casually.

"If you ever slice one of my friends or loved ones up like this again, I'll show you what a real stab wound looks like," she said darkly as she helped the limping Gray down the stairs leaving Lyon completely terrified.

/Natsu's POV/

"So this is Deliora huh," Natsu said to himself as he sniffed the air.

He began to look around the cave for any sign of the fifth person.

"I know you're here Ultear," Natsu said as an old man with a mask appeared before he quickly shifted into the Councilwoman Ultear.

"My my, the rumours say that you can sense and detect almost anything and anyone but I must say I'm surprised," Ultear said playfully as Natsu sighed.

"No games Ultear, why are you here?"

"Patience Natsu, we have all the time in the world," Ultear said as she pulled out a crystal ball.

"Stop playing games with me Ultear, I don't have the time for this!"

"The Demon of Destruction Deliora, slumbering away within an icy tomb. Time is such a funny thing really; you observe its effects on everything from people to the wilderness around us."

"What's your point?"

"You see, Deliora here has been stuck in this icy prison for too long. Slowly, his power waned, until all that was left was his sheer will forever trapped within its icy tomb. But you see, time is a funny thing, change one constant and the results can be … extraordinary."

"Why are you telling me all this," Natsu asked suddenly concerned as the ball in Ultear's hands began to light up, a light enveloped the frozen Deliora.

"What the hell are you doing Ultear!?"

"There is one thing that all Time Mages are unable to do and that is rewind all of time itself. However, there are exceptions to the rule. I can rewind time on a specific object and anything within the objects as far as I please."

"Wait … so you can control time?"

"Yes, my magic is a lost form of magic known as the Arc Of Time."

"Look, you need to stop what you're doing Ultear! Deliora is weakened so we can easily kill it!"

"That may be but my friend Jellal wishes for you to be removed from the picture so to speak."

"Who the hell is Jellal?"

"Who indeed Natsu Dragneel," Ultear replied with a smirk as the ice began to slowly disappear and began forming into an object at the end of the room."

"Ultear, the Council will have your head if they found out you did this!"

"Quite unlikely since I'm currently still there, Jellal is quite a resourceful man. Oh, now that was unexpected."

Natsu looked over to where the ice had been heading and noticed that it took the shape of a woman. Natsu rushed over to the unconscious woman and put her over his shoulders as an ear piercing roar boomed through the cave.

The woman began to wake and she quickly realised that she was within ten feet of Deliora.

"Relax I'm getting you out of the way ok," Natsu said to the woman as he jumped up to a nearby exit before putting her down. I take it you're Gray's Master, Ur?"

"How do you know me, but more importantly Gray," Ur asked, still dazed from her long stint as an ice cube.

"Look it's a long story ok, and I don't really have time to tell it since that prick is about to level this whole place so maybe he can fill you in."

Ur turned around to where Natsu motioned and saw a scarlet haired girl and a young man wearing no shirt covered in blood.

"Ur, how the hell are you even here! Natsu what the fuck is going on!?"

"Gray, I thought I raised you better than that," Ur said sharply as she approached Gray.

"But Ur you were-."

"I think I get the idea of what's happened here, someone's wound back time on the Iced Shell. Didn't think that would have been an option when I created it but here I am so it must be true. If it wasn't for that pink haired boy I'd probably be down there, crushed by Deliora."

"I still can't believe you're alive Ur," Gray said as he began to tear up.

"Looks like I missed out on quite a lot while I was gone, hell you've become a man while I was gone. Anyway, pink haired boy I wanna-."

Everyone looked to where Natsu was standing and realised he was gone. They slowly looked down in the chamber and spotted Natsu facing down Deliora.

"That kid is as suicidal as you Gray!"

"Uh I don't quite know how to tell you this Ur but Natsu is probably stronger than all of us right now," Gray said as he pointed towards Natsu."

"You can't be serious, no way that kids stronger than all of us!"

"Just watch and you'll see," Erza said proudly.

"Hey Deliora, I've got something for ya!"

Deliora simply roared and lunged at Natsu who easily dodged the attack and leapt into the air.

"Fire Dragon King's Quaking Iron Fist!" Deliora was hit right in the face and sent through the rock wall and outside. "You may not have wanted to talk to me before, but you will after I'm done with you!"

Ur stared at the hole in utter shock. A Demon she had been utterly overwhelmed by was just sent flying by one punch, the deliverer of said punch rushing out of said hole to engage the Demon.

"Told you," Erza said with a smile.

"Should we help him," Ur asked still in shock.

"Let him have his fun first," Erza replied as the three ran after the Demon and Natsu.

(Edited 18/11/18)

(Edited 31/12/20)

(Edited 10/06/22)