Ok just responding to some stuff.

Firstly Kazuka746 – when it comes to what Natsu's E.N.D form looks like it really doesn't look like any one thing the reason being and I know this hasn't been seen much yet since its relatively new but most of his body is covered by black scales that morph all the time. His body as a result will often look quite bizarre, the whole talons as feet thing is more Dragon like than what Kyoka's look like but they can change into anything on the fly so they won't always be talons that just what it becomes when he first enters the form.

Basically his body will end up being a mismatch most of the time but my reasoning is this – Natsu as the ultimate demon should be able to counter or match most things thrown at him, as Zeref's finest creation he would be able to adapt himself to face nearly any combat scenario which is something all the other Demons lack. When you say he'd look ugly I mean yeah he might but remember he is the ultimate living weapon designed to kill beings akin to Gods so I mean if he had to adapt style really isn't high on the priority list but I get what you are saying.

And at the end you mentioned that his appearance changes as he gets stronger well that's actually what I had in mind but it's kind of a really strange route I've got planned for it and I'm trying to decide if I want to do it or not but we'll see how that goes.

Oh and as for the two different entities thing I decided back in Scarlione when I first brought E.N.D in it works like this. E.N.D is literally Natsu from the time E.N.D was created until the time he was sealed away by Zeref before Natsu was sent into the future with the other Dragon Slayers. The Natsu we have now is actually the Natsu from before E.N.D who was granted the memories of Igneel by Zeref before he was sent into the future.

They are the same since they now both retain the same memories and since Natsu ate the Darkness within himself are somewhat merged with the actual Natsu being the dominant one.

I hope that clears up some stuff for you.

Lordlexx – Yes the armors name is dodgy I know but that is its full name I was going to refer to it as simply the Darklight Templar Armor in the future, as for how useless the armor is well is it really that useless?

You say Erza should just use her armor that Natsu gave her but keep in mind that the particular armor has its limits based on magic Natsu puts in it and Erza's own. Relying on one particular armor 100% of the time goes against Erza's character, the armor Natsu gave her is indeed one of her strongest ones but it's not one she will just pull out every time.

Besides this is Erza Scarlett the requip mage who is supposed to have a portable armoury with her of course she's going to have other armors.

As to the usefulness of the Darklight Templar Armor its actually a pretty solid armor, an armor that can utilize both Light and Dark magics together in addition with a tower shield that can absorb a massive amount of damage and if combined with a spear can redirect said attack back at the attacker … imaging the Jupiter Cannon hitting that and Erza firing that back … yeah it can do that thanks to Elise's help.

And I don't really see the problem with Elise giving her an armor they spend heaps of time training together and are practically best friends at this point.

Also Eliza did give Erza an armor but it's one that everyone knows is basically a hax armor so it gives me a better origin for it and I can bring it in whenever I want rather than against someone who it was wasted on.

So yeah making random armors for Erza is kind of the fun of the fanfic I guess if you still don't like it that's fine but I still like to let people know these things when they leave a review since I do appreciate the feedback.

This last one wasn't really asking any questions or anything but I was actually touched by this so I had to respond to it.

Angryhenry- you know I'm stunned you think I'm doing that good of a job personally I thought that this being the first fic I've heavily focused on it wouldn't be that great in reality but thanks for the support reading reviews like that really make my day!

I do try to incorporate ideas that all of you suggest to me in one form or another but obviously you all don't come here for a strange mismatch of ideas so in the case of things like that armor I made last chapter yeah not the best name though Darklight Templar Armor sounds alright its really trial and error as you all know.

So yes I may ramble on for a million years before you actually reach the story but I always like to respond to things, anyway onto the chapter!

I do not own Fairy Tail Hiro Mashima does.

Natsu Vs God Serena

/Crocus Outskirts/

'So this is the power of the strongest Wizard Saint … a title well earned,' Natsu thought as the two separated from their clash.

"Most impressive, to match my blows you must possess extraordinary power … to defy the power of Eight Dragons is no easy feat."

"What did you just say!"

"Ah yes you don't know about that do you, no one does. I too possess the same magic as yours however I possess far more than one, for one such as myself I could settle for no less than eight different Dragon Slayer elements!"

"EIGHT YOU'VE GOT TO BE JOKING!"

"I see you need a demonstration of my skills … prepare yourself Natsu, Cavern Dragon's Earth Destruction!"

Bringing both his hands down on the ground the earth within a 1km radius was shattered and large boulders were hurled into the air before coming back down in Natsu's direction.

Natsu leapt into the falling boulders and began using them as stepping stones to reach God Serena however before he could get there the wind began to pick up.

"Gale Dragon's Backblast!"

Bringing his hands together and clapping a large gust of wind was created that sent the boulders crashing into each other and forcing Natsu to keep evading them losing ground in the process.

"Do you believe me yet Natsu they don't grant me the title God in jest!"

Natsu just grit his teeth as he finally managed to reach the top of the still falling boulders where Serena was standing.

"So good of you to join me."

"Eight elements huh and it looks like you have a pretty good grasp on em too, but remember at the end of the day any Slayer is vulnerable to another it doesn't matter how many elements you have at your disposal."

"I will grant you that point but … you have yet to actually attack me so can you back up the statement?"

"Fine I'll go on the attack then but don't cry when you get diced, Fire Dragon King's Reverberating Iron Fist!"

"Sea King Dragon's Aquapressure Strike!"

The two attacks met and a large explosion quickly followed as steam covered the area, the two then began a heated exchange of blows within the steam relying on their honed senses to avoid each other's attacks.

"Now this is the fight I was waiting for," Serena said as he launched into the air. "Lightray Dragon's Roar!"

A beam of pure white light was fired at Natsu at a speed he was barely able to react to as he managed to dodge the attack through pure instinct alone.

"Fire Dragon King's Reverberating Roar!"

"Sea King Dragon's Roar!"

The two attacks clashed and exploded upon contact once again covering the area in an even larger steam cloud, Natsu had already begun making his way to the edge of the steam cloud and managed to get out just as several blasts of air flew past him and sliced through the boulders ahead of him.

'Damn this guy is powerful probably one of the strongest I've faced if you don't count that Herald … with eight elements this could get messy.'

Natsu and Serena had managed to draw the fight out of the area that Serena had destroyed with his opening attack and Natsu could only marvel at how there were still many large boulders raining down.

"Cavern Dragon's Impact Fist!"

Natsu bent backwards as God Serena flew down at him with blinding speed and his attack cracked the earth around where it hit.

"Your senses serve you well not many can say they've gone unscathed from me this long."

"But it's only been five minutes at most?"

"I know …"

The two suddenly met with a clash of attacks, Natsu with his signature Iron Fist and God Serena with another Cavern Dragon's Impact Fist.

"Such speed and reflexes you are worthy of fighting me there is no doubt … time to take things to the next level."

"Oh great," Natsu sighed as the two disappeared with blinding speed and began to trade blows between each other neither one being able to gain the upper hand.

"Fire Dragon King's Talon!"

Serena blocked the attack by raising his forearm up to block the attack and then countered, "Lightray Dragon's Blinding Claw!"

Before Serena even raised his leg Natsu had already leant back his instincts warning him of the speed of the attack, sure enough three white claw marks shimmered just near his hairline as Natsu flipped backwards to gain some distance.

'What's up with this element it moves faster than I can see if my instincts weren't warning me I'd be done already!'

"You still aren't scathed … truly impressive but let's see just how fast you really are," Serena said as he held an arm out in front of him. "Cavern Dragon's Hailstone!"

A large boulder shot out from the ground and levitated in the air, Serena then snapped his fingers and the boulder began to rotate rapidly until a shower of sharp stones began to fly towards Natsu who began dodging them and letting his Crash Barrier get the rest.

"Still not enough … Gale Dragon's Razor Wind!"

Jumping into the air Serena made several kicking motions with his legs and with each one came a razor sharp gust of wind that Natsu was now dodging, the gusts of wind were tearing several metres into the earth upon impact which made Natsu sweat at Wendy's potential in the future.

"All right that's it," Natsu growled as he began evading the attacks and slowly making his way towards Serena.

"That's the way Natsu show me your power, your resolve!"

Natsu leapt into the air with his entire upper body surrounded in flames. "Fire Dragon King's Reverberating Sword Horn!"

Serena was forced to use both hands to block the attack as he was sent even higher into the sky only to his surprise Natsu was already above him.

"Fire Dragon King's Reverberating Wing Attack!"

Raising his arms in defense Serena barely blocked the attack as he was sent hurling back to the ground, upon impact he slid for several metres then jumped back up.

"Indeed you are still holding back as I thought Natsu though I suppose I am guilty of the same crime; let's see how your fire fares against this? Purgatory Dragon's Roar!"

The attack reached Natsu however he just ate it prompting Serena to begin head butting the ground.

"How could I be so stupid he can eat the flames he's a First Generation Slayer get it together Serena!"

Natsu was feeling the power flowing through him from the flames and grinned bringing his fists together.

"Thanks for the meal pal you've gone and supercharged my flames for me now things are gonna heat up!"

"Alright then fine but I'll be taking things up a notch as well so let's see how you-."

Serena watched in surprise as Natsu began to grow dark red scales with wings to match, Natsu grinned as he held a flame in his hand.

"I can't keep it suppressed anymore I've got to use it, dunno what that fire was but it forced me into the Dragon Force that hasn't happened since I was a kid."

"Well you did consume my Purgatory Flames which are said to be some of the most potent flames in existence so I suppose it makes sense, still now knowing you possess the Dragon Force I can no longer hold back."

"Good because things would be boring if you did!"

"Lightray Dragon's Lightspeed Barrage!"

Opening his mouth Serena began to fire a barrage of light at Natsu who disappeared the moment Serena began to attack, the next several minutes was Natsu dodging Serena's attacks and Natsu inching closer. He couldn't afford to slip up since Serena's attack was being fired at such a rapid pace that you could barely see it aside from the initial burst leaving his mouth.

Once Natsu had inched close enough he covered his claws in flames, "Fire Dragon King's Grip Strike!"

Uppercutting Serena Natsu sent him flying into the air and officially landing the first blow of the match, Serena quickly recovered and blocked two additional strikes Natsu tried to hit him with.

"Well now the air isn't really a place I want to be when you can fly it hardly seems fair now does it, Gale Dragon's Twister!"

Taking a deep breath Serena exhaled a rather large twister which Natsu had to fight not to be sucked into; Serena used the twister to reach the ground before dispelling it.

"It seems you rely quite heavily on the Fire Dragon Slaying Magic you possess Natsu …"

Natsu was silent as he rushed Serena once again but stopped when he felt a large surge of magical power and stopped in midair.

"I haven't been in combat with a worthy opponent in years …. but to allow them to land the first blow, simply unforgivable!"

'What is this power!'

Natsu looked at God Serena or more specifically his eyes and couldn't help but be surprised.

'Those eyes … are the eyes of a Dragon, but how is that possible!'

"Prepare yourself Natsu you've never faced down the might of eight Dragons before!"

'He's gonna use it all … did landing one hit hurt his pride that much I mean I got lucky there!'

"Feel the might of God Serena, Psion Dragon's Psionic Slash!"

Taking a swipe at the air a large purple blast quickly made its way to Natsu as he dodged it, unfortunately Serena was already there and he blocked three rapid blows before receiving a punch to the face sending him flying back.

"You aren't ready for this level Natsu, Tundra Dragon's Hell Blizzard!"

Natsu was forced to raise his body temperature as the temperature around him dropped to temperatures he'd never endured before.

I'm freezing how is that even possible!'

Natsu quickly realized that his legs had been frozen in place as Serena delivered a powerful blow to his chest winding him.

"Holy Dragon's Sealing Strike!"

Natsu was sent flying back and knocked flat on his back, his scales began to disappear as he slowly got to his feet.

"What the … I can't feel … my flames …"

"Of course you can't because my Holy Dragon Slaying Magic has the ability to seal other people's magic, of course I can only shut off one type of magic at a time but it should be more than sufficient to deal with you."

Natsu was panting heavily as he rose to his feet, looking at Serena he did what the man wasn't expecting … he laughed.

"I knew a situation like this would come one day, my Fire Dragon Magic gets sealed off and I'm not able to remove what did it with my Crash Magic."

"I fail to see how this is funny Natsu you are on the verge of defeat?"

"Heh you're the first person who gets to see this," Natsu said as his power shot back up again shocking Serena. In place of the dark red scales midnight purple ones began to form and he sprouted two purple wings that were torn at the bottom.

"I don't understand what is this you're Dragon Slaying Magic is sealed!"

"Correction you sealed one of them, my Gravity Dragon Slaying Magic is still very much accessible. What you see right now is the Gravity Dragon Force and you are the first to ever see it, be warned its power is quite frightening I don't use it because it could kill someone if used improperly."

'That and I can't exactly use my E.N.D form when the entire country is watching … nah I probably wouldn't get away with it anyway.'

"You really are full of surprises Natsu to think you had a second element up your sleeve!"

"Well the surprises don't end there pal see I wasn't using this before because of that fire you gave me but now I see no reason not to do this! Lightning Gravity Dragon Force Mode!"

Natsu became surrounded in lightning and it bounced off his scales causing them to shimmer, looking at God Serena with a fierce expression Natsu entered a fighting stance.

"Get ready because that last punch of yours hurt and I plan on paying it back tenfold!"

"Fine then show me the power of a Gravity Dragon!"

Natsu and Serena charged forward and clashed once again but Serena was pushed back the moment their fists made contact as he felt an intense pressure bear down on him.

"In my Gravity Dragon Force Gravity will always be distorted around me so you'll need to use all your power to fight me now!"

'Holy shit Lykyria was right this mode makes Gravity feel like your plaything if this wasn't my first time really using this I'd be able to do some serious damage!'

"Fine then let's see how you handle this, Tundra Dragon's Icy Wind! Gale Dragon's Twister!"

God Serena combined the two attacks which formed a twister that was blowing wind that froze everything it touched, Natsu however used Gravity to redirect the wind around him until he walked over to the twister.

"Gravity x400 Descent!"

Almost immediately the twister seemed to disappeared as Natsu seemingly crushed it with the forces of Gravity.

"You think that's impressive then try this, Lightray Dragon's Roar! Holy Dragon's Speed Enchant!"

The attack that was already moving at unfathomable speeds was increased, the attack made it to Natsu in less than a moment however once it entered Natsu's Gravity Field it became visible.

Moving slower than a snail Natsu simply stood to the side as it slowly slipped past him, once it reached the other end of the barrier it regained its speed and the next moment a large explosion went off in the distance.

'The Gravity slowed down the attack … that's almost akin to spatial manipulation,' Natsu thought as Serena began to scream.

"I will not lose to you I worked too hard to get here," Serena roared as the entire area began to shake and Natsu actually took a step back. "Dragon Slayer's Secret Art: Wrath Of The Ancient Eight!"

Natsu was shocked as what appeared to be eight elemental Dragons shot out from the earth and sat behind Serena who was grinning madly.

"Do you see this Natsu this is the top, can you match such power," Serena shouted as the eight Dragons began to charge across the destroyed landscape towards Natsu.

"Gravity Dragon Slayer's Secret Art: Violet Cosmos Gravitational Revisal!"

Extending his arms out a large purple dome appeared in front of him and the elemental Dragons began getting smashed from all sides as everything within the dome seemed to go haywire. From the rocks to the trees everything was being tossed around and destroyed within the dome however it was the final part of the attack that left Serena stunned the most.

At the top of the inside portion of the dome a black hole seemed to open and begin absorbing everything within including the already battered and damaged elemental Dragons, the moment the Dragons disappeared the black hole closed and the moment it did a blinding light appeared for a moment and then the entire dome exploded.

Natsu who had just exhausted most of his magic sustaining the attack dropped to one knee, looking over he could tell that Serena while not physically showing it was actually fatigued from all the magic he'd been using.

Serena just looked at Natsu who was grinning before he passed out from magic exhaustion, his scales slowly disappearing Serena dropped to his knees allowing himself to pant.

"What the hell are you Natsu Dragneel, to be able to defeat my strongest attack is no small joke!"

After a full minute Serena began to laugh before dropping to the ground himself however he remained conscious.

"We'll let the Council send someone to get us eh, I look forward to the rematch…"

/Domus Flau/

Silence reigned throughout the arena, the Magic Council and King Toma were no longer sitting instead standing in shock. Down with the guilds all the other competing guilds were in complete shock and awe, the Highfather guild were even sweating at the display.

With the Fairy Tail teams Laxus, Gajeel and Gray were all slack jawed unable to believe what they'd just witnessed. Elise was mulling over what her mother had said about Natsu's near infinite potential and was starting to see what she meant, Wendy passed out from shock as soon as Natsu pulled out the Gravity Dragon Force since she actually knew he'd possessed it since they trained with Lykyria.

But the most surprised of all was Erza who was feeling a whole range of mixed emotions, concern for Natsu, pride, envy at his overwhelming strength, more concern, surprisingly lust for seeing her man put on a show like that and shock at the fact that his opponent was God Serena of the Ishgar Four.

"Uh so what exactly does this mean … would the Council please give a comment…"

After several moments Gran Doma finally snapped out of his shock and stood up to address the stadium.

"Er yes well as you can see Natsu Dragneel has undoubtedly passed his test so now the Council will convene and decide on his new placement," Gran Doma said as King Toma stepped up.

"That was the greatest battle I have ever bore witness to in my entire life, never before have I seen such a display from two mages and I want to thank both competitors from the bottom of my heart for treating us all to such a masterful display of skill and power!"

The crowd began to cheer as they all quickly got over their shock and realized what they'd just seen.

"Now I want people out there to attend to those two immediately they both looked beyond tired and I won't have them left out there, guards send out some medical mages to ensure that the two of them are alright!"

As the crowd continued to cheer Chapati began to speak. "Alright folks what a performance definitely worth the wait, now this brings us to a close for the third day of the Games, please make sure you all exit the stadium safely and we'll see you here tomorrow for another day of action!"

/City Of Crocus 6 Hours Later Natsu's POV/

Natsu groaned as he slowly began to open his eyes, his body felt like he'd been hit by a lacrima train and he couldn't help but stifle a laugh.

"Damn I haven't had a good fight like that in awhile … guess I still don't stack up to a Wizard Saint with that power."

Hearing a gasp in the room Natsu turned his head to the source of the noise and noticed a rather tall heavily armoured man standing in the centre of the room shaking his head and behind him was a green haired girl who Natsu swore he'd seen before.

"So you are awake Saint Dragneel, the healing mages informed me that you shouldn't even be awake for several days am I to assume that you'll be up in the hour?"

"Heh yeah I'm not really known for following the norm, so judging by your armor I take it you're a Knight?"

"Indeed I am Saint Dragneel I am Arcadios Captain of the Cherry Blossom Holy Knight Squad, currently I serve the young lady here," Arcadios said with a small smirk as the girl who was hiding behind him came into view.

"H-hello my name is Hisui it's nice to meet someone as powerful as yourself," the girl now known as Hisui said with a slight stutter as Natsu forced himself into a sitting position.

"Listen my power has nothing to do with anything it doesn't matter how strong I am, when you meet someone you begin on an equal playing field … or didn't they teach you that Princess," Natsu said with a smirk as Hisui looked at him surprised.

"Please excuse the Princess Saint Dragneel whenever God Serena speaks with her he makes it his mission to ensure that we are lucky to have such a powerful mage in our presence."

"I see … well Arcadios and Hisui you don't have to call me Saint Dragneel just Natsu is fine, so are we in the palace?"

"Yes father had both of you brought here since he had a situation he wanted to speak with the two of you about … unfortunately God Serena already left stating that he was uninterested," Hisui said with a small sigh.

"Wherever I go there's always trouble … me and reigning monarchs seem to cross paths way too often."

"Yes we heard about Scarlione and how you are part of the Knights of Scarlione I must say I'm actually quite honoured."

"Yeah well I doubt that title means much anymore Scarlione could fall any day now if it hasn't already, but yes I was granted the title after undertaking a Century Quest with her and a group of others who I consider family … it's a shame things ended up the way they did."

"Are things really that bad in Scarlione everyone knows about the constantly raging war but surely Scarlione isn't faring that bad?"

"Heh well they have Spriggan crawling all over the place in that country I should know my friends and I have fought some of them. Scarlione is a mess and the Queen is losing her power fast, that's all I have to say on the matter."

"I understand its hard to speak of such things, now I suppose you are curious about what situation the King wanted to speak with you about?"

"Well we're here in the palace so why not," Natsu said as he grit his teeth and stood up slowly prompting Hisui to rush to his side.

"You shouldn't be moving around yet your injuries are quite severe, look you're bleeding again!"

"I'll be fine Hisui thanks for your concern but I've been through worse," Natsu said as he requiped into his jeans, black shirt and black leather jacket. "Heh haven't worn this in a long time."

Natsu pulled a walking stick from his requip space and began to hobble to the door.

"Well come on let's go we don't want to keep the King waiting," Natsu said with a grin as Hisui nodded still shocked and concerned whilst Arcadios simply sighed.

After ten minutes of slowly walking through the castle the three reached the large throne room, the doors were shut prompting Arcadios to sigh.

"I apologize Natsu he seems to be in a meeting."

"Yeah well I'm not really a fan of sitting around," Natsu said as he tapped the walking stick on the door and it was pushed open. "Gotta love Gravity Magic."

Walking in Natsu could see the King sitting on his throne looking rather bored as an older looking man was briefing him on something Natsu couldn't really make out.

"Natsu I don't think you should interrupt that's Defence Minister Darton he gets rather angry when he's interrupted," Hisui whispered but Natsu just grinned.

"Heh I think I'm gonna have a little fun," he muttered as he began to bang his walking stick on the ground with each step prompting the two at the other end of the hall to turn around.

"YOU, how dare you barge in here! Princess, Arcadios how could you let this man in here!"

"So you're Defence Minister Darton eh … you know I don't really see what you really do considering that the real military is run by the Magic Council … see I'm a Wizard Saint and from what I understand the King has urgent business with me that from what I was told was a matter of Fiore's security."

"If this is a matter of the kingdoms security then it definitely concerns me, my job is much more important than what you could comprehend!"

"Ah but you see I happen to know another Defence Minister in the Magic Council and he knows how the request of a Wizard Saint works or do I need to quote the charter created by the Council?"

"I'm well aware of the charter but still if you think that a matter of security will evade my sight-!"

"Sorry but you don't have a choice pal now if you'll excuse me I would like to get this started because I opened several wounds on the way here and would rather not stain the royal throne room with my blood."

"If you would leave us Darton I believe the young Wizard Saint has made his point," the King said with a grin as Darton scowled and quickly left the throne room as the King began to laugh.

"Wow you shut Darton down fast I don't think I've seen him that angry in a long time," Hisui said with a giggle as Natsu grinned before slightly losing balance on his walking stick and some blood spilt on the floor.

"You know I was informed that you weren't supposed to be awake until at least Friday I must say you Wizard Saints are made of sterner stuff than regular mages, even so I would suggest that we continue this somewhere better suited to have a look at your injuries."

"Thank you your majesty I have one question though, God Serena was supposed to be here too and all I heard was that he left is that true?"

"Yes I requested that both of you be brought here so that I could inform the two of you of a dire situation that is brewing that I wished for the two of you to investigate however God Serena wouldn't even hear me out and left the moment he could walk."

"I see … well I'll hear you out so let's find somewhere better suited for this," Natsu sighed as the four made their way out of the throne room and down the hall to a rather large dining room.

"Now then Arcadios if you would be so kind as to find some healers Natsu here seems to be losing quite a lot of blood, oh and the cleaners for the blood as well I noticed a continuous trail was following us."

"Of course your majesty," Arcadios said with a salute before leaving as Natsu and the two royals took their seats.

"Now Natsu what I am about to tell you is in confidence so I ask that you repeat this to no one until the time is right."

Natsu nodded as the King sighed and shook his head.

"Alright now where to begin with this mess … alright my first question is this, what do you know of the Dragon King Festival?"

"How do you know of that," Natsu said sharply as the King remained motionless.

"Am I to believe that all Dragon Slayers know of it?"

"I can't give you a definitive answer though only the ones that were raised by actual Dragons would actually know since they would be the ones to tell you about it, but yes I do know about it why?"

"You see a man came here one day, slipping past all security he came before me one night with a message saying that the Dragon King Festival is nigh and the gate shall be opened once more."

"Do you have any idea what this person looked like?"

"It was strange he seemed to be a Shadow yet I could tell he had a body… I can't tell you much more than that."

"Alright well then next question what is this gate he mentioned?"

"Now that Natsu is something that involves the secrecy I mentioned earlier, are you aware of something called the Eclipse Gate?"

Natsu's mind raced back through his memories as the name Eclipse Gate screamed danger, it wasn't until he remembered Scarlione that it clicked.

"That gate must not be opened under any circumstances!"

"I figured you had knowledge of it … but that is the plan since doing so will no doubt bring ruin to the land."

"Would I be correct in guessing that the Eclipse Gate is located here in the palace somewhere?"

"Indeed it is our family have been watching over it for generations however it has become apparent that it is tied to the Dragon King Festival so enlisting the help of strong and able mages like yourself is now my highest concern."

"You know this clears up quite a lot of things actually, the other day I had a run in with two people who claimed they were searching for something within the palace … now I know exactly what they are after it'll be easier to stop them."

"And this would relate to the countryside that seems to have been destroyed the other day?"

"Yeah the two that came are quite strong but they both left wounded so I'd say we have a little time to prepare."

"Very well I'll make sure that the top guards are posted near the gate we cannot allow anything to happen to the people."

"Understood, so uh does my guild know I'm here?"

"Well it was cleared with your Guild Master Makarov so I suppose it depends on what he said to your fellow guild mates."

"I see … well I'd love to stay and chat but there's work to be done," Natsu said as he began to stand up.

"But wait Natsu you're still bleeding you need to take it easy!"

"Settle down Princess I've suffered through way worse than this I'll be fine besides you just heard what your father and I spoke about I have arrangements to make."

Natsu held out his hand and a small magic circle appeared and he began to float in the air.

"Gravity Magic gotta love it, I'll come to you if I hear anything more your majesty. Until then I'll see the two of you later!"

And with that Natsu slowly left through the window and began to increase the speed towards the only people who he knew could do anything discreetly right now.

Ultear and Meredy were taking care of Jellal who was currently in bed suffering from his own wounds when Natsu crashed through the window shocking the trio.

"Natsu what the hell are you doing flying in through people's-!" Ultear stopped her rant when she realized just how injured he was and quickly rushed to his side.

"Natsu what happened you're bleeding everywhere," Meredy cried as he just grinned away.

"I was supposed to be out for a couple days from what I heard yet here I am, wounds courtesy of one God Serena by the way though I doubt you don't already know about that fight."

"Of course we knew about that fight but you didn't look this bad on the lacrima vision!"

"Yeah well neither did I then again I'm a glutton for punishment, no time for small talk though I know what they're after and its bad."

"You mean the two from Alvarez," Jellal asked as he sat up in his bed.

After having his wounds looked at and sealed courtesy of Meredy who he had no idea had any form of medical magic Natsu recounted his talk with the King and what he'd discovered.

"So it seems Zeref has a plan with this gate of his, we'll need to find and make sure this gate is being watched at all times otherwise whatever evil plan Zeref has will undoubtedly succeed," Jellal sighed.

"Yes starting tonight Meredy and I will begin searching for the gate, Jellal still has another day of recovery whilst you will undoubtedly be up and about by tomorrow morning. There still hasn't been any sign of those two from the Leichart yet but I doubt they are bowing out of this thing yet."

"Just keep an eye out for them that's all you can do for now, things are about to get intense I can feel it in my gut."

"Alright enough of the doom and gloom for now we have things to do, Natsu you'd best be getting back to your guild before they start getting worried."

"Yeah I feel like I can walk again albeit with this cane but at least I'm not bleeding out all over the place."

"You should really be more careful Natsu one day you'll wind up dead pulling stunts like that."

"Come on Ultear you didn't expect me to fight the number one Wizard Saint and not walk away without some injuries did you?"

"No but all of those injuries were the result of the explosion caused by that final attack of yours, reckless as always!"

"Hey settle down I get enough of that from Erza I don't need you drilling it into me too."

"Then maybe you'd listen and stop pulling off flashy attacks!"

"Where's the fun in that," Natsu said with a grin as he made his way to the door and left flashing his signature grin.

Natsu's walk back to the Honey Bone Inn was mostly uneventful until he made his way onto one of the main streets and people began recognizing him as one of Fiore's strongest mages, cheering and asking for autographs Natsu could only groan seeking only a nice cold drink and his friends and Erza for company.

After spending the next ten minutes wading through the crowd Natsu arrived outside the inn, the city was now dark as night had fallen and he walked inside.

Natsu walked in and noticed that barely anyone was there, Mira was at the bar, Makarov was sitting on the counter silently drinking away, the girl from Sabertooth Yukino was also there alongside Elise, Gray and Laxus.

As soon as Natsu walked into view everyone collectively dropped their glasses.

"Thanks guys I just love knowing that my mere presence can do that I'll be sure to keep that in mind from now on."

"N-no it's just that the healers said you'd be out for days," Makarov said as Natsu sighed and shook his head.

"You all know me better than that I'm not one to stick to the norm, so how'd I do?"

"Do you really have to ask Natsu I don't think there's a single person left in Fiore who doesn't know how strong you are now," Gray said.

"That final attack you did was epic I've never seen such a thing," Elise said with a grin.

"Yeah its not every day you bring the top Wizard Saint to his knees, you might not have won but you certainly showed just how strong you really are," Laxus said with a small smirk.

"You had us all very worried when you lost consciousness out there," Mira added.

"But one thing we all know for certain my boy is that you are undoubtedly …. GOING TO BRING IN THAT PRIZE MONEY WHO WOULD WANT TO FIGHT YOU AFTER ALL THAT WE'LL WIN THE GAMES FOR SURE GAHAHA," Makarov cheered as the rest of the room collectively sighed.

"Actually I don't plan on taking part in the rest of the games gramps," Natsu said as Makarov fell off the counter.

"Well that kind of works out since we've been informed that we can only have one team now since Raven Tail got disqualified," Mira said as Natsu nodded.

"Well that's good, so any idea where Erza is?"

"She went to bed early something about needing all of her energy to scale the castle gates and climb the walls to come find you," Elise said in a mocking voice but was bumped on the head by Natsu's walking stick as he made his way past.

"See you all in the morning," Natsu sighed as he made his way upstairs and down the hall to his room.

Opening the door he saw Erza peacefully sleeping in the bed and couldn't help but smile, without a sound he requiped out of his clothes and climbed into bed next to her. As if she sensed the familiar warmth the wrapped herself around Natsu much to his discomfort as his injuries began to feel the pressure of Erza's embrace.

'Just gotta tough it out Natsu you can do it if you scream Erza will wake and you'll be even worse off!'

Natsu knew it was going to be a long night but he wouldn't have it any other way.

/Outside Of Crocus/

"So you saw what he is capable of and as promised I roughed him up a bit, I trust that will be all Varnik after all I have my own orders?"

"Your assistance is most appreciated Serena but I must say it looks like Dragneel did a number on you as well, to bring someone of your strength to his knees is quite a feat no?"

"Oh please I hardly tried against that little upstart!"

"Is that so … the last time I saw the Ancient Eight was in Bosco when both you and Sir August stormed the capital on his Excellency's order and as I recall it was the only thing you could do in order to subdue the united Guild Masters?"

"That was a different situation entirely Varnik Bosco refused surrender so we were told to put on a show nothing more … Dragneel is strong there is no doubt but rumours that he actually managed to force Irene Belserion to retreat back to Alvarez must be greatly exaggerated."

"That is because you know not the full story Serena if you did then you may not have fought Dragneel at all, thank the almighty that he didn't know your real allegiance or else you would have been killed there is little doubt. You might be able to fool the lower half of the Spriggan and Leichart about your level of power but the veterans such as myself know better."

"Something must have really pissed you off Varnik if you are willing to slander one such as myself in such a way, if we were back in Alvarez I would show you my full power!"

"Trust me Serena there will be no need for that since I saw most of it today, I know that you have another technique beyond the Ancient Eight but for a man such as Dragneel to negate it without even using half of his power is quite amusing."

"What did you just say that man was rendered unconscious because of his last attack and you say he was only using HALF, Varnik have you gone senile!"

"Perhaps if you actually tried to find information on those who are of high import to the Emperor you might understand but once again Serena you fall short. Power you may have but the knowledge on how to use said power to its utmost effectiveness is something you fail to grasp."

"Don't lecture me you old fool after all that meddling fool Jellal clearly gave you quite the thrashing despite your own abilities!"

"This is why you will never be held in as high regard as Sir August or Lady Irene … when facing an opponent no matter who they are, how strong they are or what they may mean to you the only thing you should do is view them as a threat to your life. Jellal clearly was far stronger than the reports indicated and could easily match many of the Spriggan and Leichart, his magic was something that mine simply could not counter which gave him the advantage. Tell me Serena if a man hurls a meteor at you exactly how would you respond to it within the moment?"

"I would blast it out of the sky obviously."

"Precisely and in the process you would doom yourself, what if your attack wasn't strong enough, what if it did break it but the meteor broke off and made even more of a mess for you to avoid than before. Its these variables that gave Jellal an advantage against me since my magic is unable to comprehend the correct counter when a vast or potentially near infinite amount of possibilities await at the result of the action."

"Perhaps you should train more then instead of insulting those who are able to prove their power?"

"If only you truly understood that concept Serena, having eight lacrima infused into your body doesn't count as training with your abilities. It can take decades of hard work to reach such a level and that is precisely what Sir August and Lady Irene have done, anyway your part here is done just stay out of Crocus for the next week."

"I know you don't have to tell me," Serena snarled as he disappeared in a ray of light.

"I wonder …Dragneel vs Lady Irene who would actually win such a bout … Dragneel vs August though well … there wouldn't be any competition," Varnik said to himself as he wandered back into the nearby woods.

I hope you all enjoyed and I'll see you in the next one.