We hit 100 chapters am I part of the Kool Klub now?
Really though this is a pretty massive deal for me 100 chapters that's a crazy amount never did I believe I'd make it this far and there is still a decent amount left to go too! You've all been so wonderful and supportive throughout the story from suggesting ideas to simple praise it means so much to have such a supportive fanbase!
So as a special 100 chapter gift I'm doing an extended chapter full of really massive stuff that I'm sure you'll all love including the return of two people who have been absent for a long while now!
But first the usual stuff haha!
DragneelX17 – Gentou is someone special from Elise's childhood from the prequel I'm working on titled Fairy Tail Avant Garde Daughter Of War who meant a lot to her despite their short time together. To summarize though he's basically the man who put Elise on the path to where she is at now even before Eliza was properly on the scene so he's a really important character for her.
And I mean yeah it's not like I was held at gunpoint but I just had enough spare time as I always say who can predict my upload schedule because I can't once upon a time I used to upload four chapters a week and then after like two months of that I didn't upload for nearly a month so it really goes with how busy I am and so I upload this massive chapter that I felt hype writing the whole way through!
TheRayvenwolves – Yeah basically Gajeel will have a metal hand from now on this ties back to my belief that the characters need to have (as the overused meme goes) those gosh darn war wounds that like 90% of shonen seem to pretend don't exist like the idea of an MC dying. Basically Gajeel losing his arm is still a pretty big consequence because unlike Natsu who can regenerate thanks to E.N.D not that he knew until he got the E.N.D form Gajeel doesn't have OP regen abilities to rely on so a prosthetic will have to suffice for him not that he really suffers anyway Wendy would if she lost an arm since wind isn't really useful for picking stuff up haha.
Etherious X – Yeah trust me when I say this what I'm making out happened to Seras is absolutely not what happened in any way it's my own thing to add an extra layer onto why Natsu and Alucard with now Seras are such good friends for him to send Seras into a conflict like this. The Major does basically start WW3 at the end of it with the Catholic Church on one side and Nazis on the other (Or if you watch Hellsing Ultimate Abridged that really long Spanish sounding one, the Mexican Inquisition, The Sacred Order of the Temple Beth Zion, the Salvation Army and the actual Ku Klux Klan.)
Honestly I'd give it a watch it's worth it especially the abridged version and yes Shadow465 I put that scene in as a direct reference because lets be real here where is the lie?
Thomas MCF – Thanks for the support Thomas glad to hear you've been loving the story hope to keep you hooked! With regards to the armor yeah Natsu has the Scarlione Court Armor but sadly I don't plan on using it again for Natsu I created it more as a gag at the beginning for Natsu to tease Erza by saying "Well I'm technically more of a real knight than you" sort of thing haha.
And trust me I enjoy reading reviews and PM's its why I actively encourage them since I read all of them to get new ideas that people suggest and to get feedback on where the story is going and to adapt it accordingly so paragraphs or words are fine and hope you have a spectacular day yourself!
Anyway on with the story!
I do not own Fairy Tail Hiro Mashima does.
The Chaotic Battlefied
/Elise's POV/
Elise was pushing herself to the limit fighting three extremely powerful beings, a woman that can harness the moons light and weaponize it, a Demon who has the ability to manipulate time and her first true friend and father figure who was once a renowned mage known the country over for his ability in combat who retired to raise her after saving her life.
The fight itself was fast paced with all four moving in a strange dance that only an expertly trained eye could see, Elise had been told by Gentou how strong he had been back in his day but to actually combat him in his prime put things into perspective on just how much he gave up to raise her and grant her a better life.
As Elise moved her body to the left simultaneously blocking a punch from Dimaria and blocking an attack from above by Yasmin she couldn't help but let her mind wander to the swordsman in front of her.
/A Long Time Ago In The Village Of Kihetai/
A long time ago in the village of Kihetai, an ancient village dedicated to the worship of the God of War, we see a version of Elise a far cry from the one of today. This Elise was thin, had sickly looking skin and was quite emotionally damaged due to events best left forgotten.
On that day so many years ago Gentou had saved young Elise from her fate and taken her to this village retiring from the world to raise her, a task she would one day be thankful for. Gentou was a simple man with his whole life dedicated to war, his life was in the service of the High Priest of Kihetai the Village Leader until the man died and Gentou himself was elected to take his place.
The ascension should have been a simple one full of joy however most of the village hated Elise from the moment Gentou had brought her and the village children had taken her and left her to die in the woods, that night was the first sign of a spark that would one day allow the Gods back into the world though back then no one knew.
Elise was returned safely after Gentou was lead to the place Elise had managed to end up and despite the young six year old suffering burns and various injuries she was for the most part alive even if her confidence had taken yet another massive blow.
A promise was made by the old man, to train the girl who yearned for naught but knowledge in the way of defence, in truth the Elise of old was a bookworm obsessed with learning about the God the people of Kihetai worshiped and an Ebony Sword that lay atop an altar brimming with a power she could feel yet not comprehend.
In truth Gentou was in every sense of the word the father Elise never got with the man being the typical kindly old man teaching her all she needed to know and helping her emerge from the shell of her old self and into the young woman she would one day need to become however before that the old man had a promise to keep.
"G-Gentou you promised today you would show me how to … to defend myself, right," a young eight year old Elise said as she looked up at the old man who smiled down at her giving her an affectionate pat on the head.
"How are you feeling today Elise is that cough back?"
"N-no Gentou I am fine, I wish to begin even if it is only the most basic of things I st-still wish to learn!"
"Ohohoho such a bright young girl as always wanting to learn everything you can, very well if you believe you are well enough then come with me."
One detail about the young Elise to note was that almost nothing made her smile, the child had not grown up knowing love, a warm place to sleep or the feeling of a warm and full belly no she was a child abused from the moment of conscious thought. To her parents she was nothing more than a burden, disgrace and slave forced into labour and given only the right to live. Such was the way in the life of a Dark Guild.
The idea of learning how to defend herself was something that brought a smile to the young girl, a smile Gentou had not seen since she woke up a few weeks after he had saved her from the ploy made by the children and it warmed his old heart as he stepped out into the training yard of the Temple of Eternal Armageddon.
"Elise I want you to listen to me when I speak because this is extremely important alright," Gentou began as Elise sat down in front of him nodding. "The art of war is not something meant for fun it serves two things! The first purpose it serves is to teach you how to kill your opponent do you understand?"
"Y-yes I think so …"
"Explain."
"W-well wars are waged over all sorts of things from land to simple domestic disputes and it is an excuse for many to justify murder and walk away with their consciences intact, right?"
"War Elise … war is where the old and rich trick the poor and stupid into killing each other; I'm an old man Elise … very old and very stupid."
"You fought your entire life?"
"Indeed I fought for Kihetai against the Dark Guilds who wanted our knowledge and the Magic Council who were upset that a village within their borders refused to bend the knee to them. I've lost much over the years Elise from friends to … family, that is one of the reasons why I took you in because you were a casualty of war and from that day on I hung up my blade never to use it again."
"But that is for the best then right you hated fighting and now you want to do something good right?"
"Indeed I'm trying my best to redeem myself but one can never escape war for too long Elise it is one of the constants of man that cannot ever change, war has existed well before my time and will persist long after you and I have left this world. Anyway enough of this depressing talk for the moment I'm sure you understand what I'm saying how about I show you what you will one day learn hmm?"
"O-ok Gentou if it isn't too much trouble …"
"Alright Elise sit back and watch what I do," Gentou said as he walked over to a sheathed bastard sword picking it up with one hand as he drew it from its scabbard.
"Whoa …!"
"You notice the colouration of the blade; care to take a guess as to why it looks like this?"
"Did you drop it in fire?"
"Heh no but you aren't wrong for assuming such a thing, this sword is of an old breed of sword from a time long ago. This sword has a name you know and a tale behind it that I believe proves the existence of the Gods at least in some capacity, the swords name is Phaesphoros a sword made of black steel with the power of the stars sealed within. The sword draws on the power of the night to gain unique powers; it has a brother sword though I know not where it is."
"A star sword, that can't be real?"
"Here let me show you its power Elise then you'll see," Gentou said amused as he turned to face the cliff face at the end of the courtyard. Raising the sword with one hand Gentou brought it down and with one swing split the entire cliff face in two as Elise sat there slack jawed. "Of course the blade didn't do all the work Elise I needed to be skilled enough and powerful enough to force it to do what I'd asked."
"Y-you just cut the top of the mountain in half!"
"And one day you will too Elise but if you want to be able to do that you must get better first, as you are now you will only stall your recovery further than you already have so if you truly want to perform a feat like that one day you must focus on your health."
Elise avoided his gaze but nodded sadly knowing he was probably right after all Gentou was always right about these things.
"W-well can we at least go get some chocolate ice cream?"
"Chocolate ice cream for the soon to be Knightess I don't see why not," Gentou said cheerfully hoping for Elise to crack a smile but settled on the twinkle in her eyes which was the closest he got normally.
/Present/
As Elise blocked the strike of Gentou she saw the blade he held was a duplicate of Phaesphoros but was clearly not the real deal after all it was taken from his lifeless corpse she had seen that much herself.
Pushing Gentou back Elise did several flips as she kicked Yasmin back blocking a barrage of blows from Dimaria who seemed frustrated that Elise hadn't given up and instead seemed to be drawing new strength.
"How can you still fight you literally have someone you care about trying to kill you!"
"But it isn't really him and I know that now, you can try and trick me all you want but it won't work. Gentou died long ago and I accept that I was far too weak to save him!"
Her body surrounded by a Galaxy Blue Aura she charged forward and punched Dimaria in the face as the Demon growled attempting to strike back but was far too slow.
"You haven't gotten any stronger since Scarlione Dimaria you aren't even close to being a match for me as I am now!"
"Don't talk shit God Slayer bitch!"
"I speak fact, Yasmin was doing fine before you showed up and Gentou even has more power behind his sword strikes than you do. Return to your precious master and leave me be!"
"Make me!"
"Alright I will," Elise sighed as she dodged an aerial slash by Gentou in midair as she used the dodge to grab hold of one of the claymores thrown by Yasmin smashing it into Dimaria who was sent crashing into the ground.
God's Aura: War God's Fissure Slicer!"
Bringing her sword down in a mighty swing Elise's attack hit the recovering Dimaria head on as she was once more shredded in half with her two halves being sent deep into the earth where the attack exploded leaving Elise with only two foes left to contend with.
"From one warrior to another thanks for getting rid of her," Yasmin said through grit teeth.
"Oh and why is that?"
"She always was a stuck up bitch going on about how she had the Gods on her side until you beat the shit out of her, when Lord Zeref made her a Demon she made out like it was a rebirth or something and it only got worse so … thanks."
"I mean its fine I guess …?"
"Now then back to the battle," Yasmin said her rage clearly returning full force as Elise once again found herself dodging all manner of attacks from both her and Gentou who had begun to expel more magic power much to her surprise.
"Elise prepare yourself I'm not holding back anymore!"
"I-I will Gentou," she replied quickly as the old man began to laugh.
"Still have the stutter eh even after all these years?"
"No its just you," she replied softly as she moved her sword to a forty-five degree angle as she began channelling aura into it.
"Ah of course this is pretty emotional for us both I suppose but for old times' sake could I ask one favour?"
"Of course," Elise replied as they entered similar stances.
"Ah so you did learn it after all, anyway can I see that smile one last time I know it is greedy to ask twice but it would be nice to see it as you are now?"
"Damn old man," she said as she stifled a laugh through the tears revealing a bright smile.
"Ahh … so that's how it is," Gentou said as he and Elise both rushed forward.
"God's Aura:"
"War Art:"
"Zantetsuken," they both cried as each stopped a few short metres away from the other as Gentou turned around to meet Elise's own tear streaked face.
"Dispatched with little effort … you have grown strong my little Elise …"
A huge chunk of Gentou's body was blown out as the attack took effect with his sword shattering as Gentou began to crumble away into dust.
"I will cherish you forever Gentou, no … Father."
As Gentou faded Elise turned to face the strongest of her three opponents Yasmin who had despite her almost psychotic break held back to allow the moment, the two shared a silent nod as they dashed towards each other locking weapons as Elise narrowed her eyes with renewed determination.
"Once again it is just the two of us, let us finish what we started Elise Faulkner!"
"Indeed let us end this fight, Yasmin Clearwater."
"You know my full name!"
"Natsu," Elise replied as Yasmin nodded.
"Everything always comes back to that man, no matter let us fight!"
Elise and Yasmin began to swing heavy blows towards each other sending shockwaves left and right as each tried to gain the upper hand on the other with little success, during Elise and Gentou's little moment Yasmin had been collecting the moon's power steadily in preparation for the coming fight and it was paying off.
Elise despite her years of combat experience couldn't match Yasmin while she was under the influence of the moon, this became more apparent when she seemed to hit what Elise dubbed the limit she could absorb as her form once again became that almost Demonic looking thing that smashed her head in earlier but there would be no interruptions to save her this time should she get caught in a similar position.
"I need to use everything, every last drop of magic and aura to win!"
"RAAARGH," Yasmin roared as she cleared the distance between them in seconds with Elise ducking and elbowing her in the stomach rolling out of the way of a claymore strike and throwing several ebony daggers that embedded themselves into the claymore.
Elise was hit in the ribs with the full power of a second claymore that seemed to have been tossed earlier as she was sent sprawling through the dirt, flipping to regain her footing she expertly landed on Yasmin's claymore and kicked her in the face twice before slashing her across the chest before receiving a powerful punch to the face as the two locked hands head butting each other as blood covered their faces.
"DIEEE!"
"YOU FIRST!"
The two head butted each other twice more before stumbling back towards their weapons; Elise summoned several more ebony daggers tossing them at Yasmin who wasn't expecting them as she blocked the first few taking the last two in the right shoulder and leg.
Raising her claymore Yasmin brought it down cracking the ground around them, raising it again she didn't get a chance to bring it down as Elise tackled her to the ground and began punching her in the face repeatedly only to have Yasmin hit her on both sides of the head stunning her as she was pushed off.
"YOU ARE MINE!"
Yasmin tried to begin smashing Elise's head in but Elise gripped the handle of the knife embedded into her leg and dragged it downward ripping open the front of her leg as she screamed in pain kicking Elise with her good foot to get her to release the grip on the knife.
"Damn my head," Elise growled as she rose to her feet summoning another sword and dispelling her old one just as Yasmin rose to hers.
"MOON SHINE DOWN!"
Holding the claymore in a reverse grip Yasmin darted forward smashing the ground with each step creating shockwaves of blue flame with each consecutive hit, Elise had little choice but to run however she wasn't fast enough since Yasmin jumped into the air tossing one at high speed which hit her in the back as she felt her very bones crack from the force.
"BEGONE!"
Elise rolled onto her back and raised her sword to block the strike as Yasmin came down with a thundering blow, Elise could feel the shockwaves through her body as the two weapons ground against each other generating sparks.
'She damaged my spine in that last attack I don't know how much more I can put out with my magic healing something like that, is this it I wonder?'
As Elise contemplated her options the attack was edging ever closer with Elise's blade mere millimetres from her own neck as Yasmin bared down upon her with a sickening grin.
"Get up Elise I didn't train you to give up like that, some successor you are!"
"Mother is that you!"
"Yes it's me and I've been watching the whole thing, you know what to do you just don't want to put in the effort!"
'The effort?'
Just as the blade touched her neck Elise began to channel all her aura into her blade as Yasmin was blown back violently into the air with Elise rising up as blood poured from her mouth.
"Channel the aura, mind, body and soul on the fight! Ignore the wounds of flesh and bone to become war, these are the lessons of the Goddess!"
Elise could feel the satisfaction from Eliza as she rose once more albeit a little shakily to her feet as Yasmin seemed to almost float in the air.
"You refuse to fall to even that, fine then take the moon's Divine power for yourself and see if you can survive! Lunar Judgement Cannon – Zeta!"
Twirling her claymore her whole body began to light up as a massive sphere of magic began to form with Elise focusing all her magic and aura into her sword for one last swing.
"This one is for you Father, God's Aura: War God's Secret Art – Divine Holy Strike Caliburn!" As Yasmin fired a massive blast of moonlight directly at Elise she responded with an aerial slash that upon meeting the attack sliced it down the middle much to Yasmin's shock as she was completely eviscerated by the attack due to the sheer size and power behind it.
Elise grinned weakly as the remnants of Yasmin's attack turned into what looked light starlight which slowly fell down like snow all around her as she laid down on her back.
"I wouldn't trade my life for any other, thanks for reminding me Father," she said with a beaming smile as she watched the starlight fall around her.
/Erza's POV/
Erza felt the massive spike in both Gajeel and Elise's magic followed by it immediately fading, pushing all bad thoughts aside she simply hoped for the best for both of them as both she and Makarov rushed across the battlefield.
"Do you feel that Master?"
"Yes I hope Gajeel and Elise are alright …"
"I think they will be I have faith in them, still we should probably move a little faster."
Erza stopped in place with Makarov stopping shortly after as the two looked at a small hill where two figures stood tall amidst the chaos.
Master go on ahead I need to deal with this one personally," Erza said as Makarov saw the identity of one of the women and realized quickly what Erza was getting at.
"Please don't die Natsu would break me if he found out I left."
"You know he wouldn't he knows how much I need to do this, please Master …"
"Alright but you be careful Erza Scarlett and know that no matter what you have a family in Fairy Tail!"
"I knew that decades ago Master," Erza said with a small smile. "This is something that needs to be done."
Makarov nodded and took off with renewed speed as Erza ran over to stand at the bottom of the hill.
"Erza."
"Mother."
"You look well Erza, a little on the pale side but otherwise as radiant as ever."
"Mother I-I want to talk-!"
"You want to talk, talk in the middle of a war? Surrounded by the growing number of comrades dying by the minute as your boyfriend tosses around attacks that would level capital cities and you want to talk!"
"It's husband now and yes I would like to talk," Erza replied as Irene seemed taken aback by this new information.
"So you truly are married then?"
"Yes it was a quiet affair in another world; we did it just after the encounter with you."
"I see, he told you my story?"
"Yes."
"And what do you think about it, about my curse?"
"What do I think about it Mother … I think that once I did have a loving Mother who changed because she couldn't handle the burden of raising her child. But on the other hand by giving me up you gave me the greatest gift of all, you gave me Natsu. If you hadn't sent me along with them I would never have gotten to be with him, though we rarely seem to get to spend time together the time we do spend together is worth every second."
"And my curse?"
"Is nothing compared to that of my husband," Erza replied shocking Irene who had not expected such an answer. "Natsu is burdened with the destiny to stop Achnologia, to stop Zeref, to hold the Gods and Devils together and prove he isn't cracking like Ahnkseram did. Every waking moment Natsu spends either fighting or preparing to fight with very few moments to himself that he chooses to try and spend with me if he can! You might be stuck as a Dragon but Natsu is more alone than anyone else in this world, what happens when one day he isn't needed anymore or he is deemed insane by those he's fought so hard for!"
Irene was silent as Erza vented her frustrations with Brandish seeming to be in a contemplative state only vaguely eyeing Erza every now and then.
"And you know what the worst part is; he would kill himself in a heartbeat if it would save the world because he's too nice for his own good! He would actually kill himself for those who would dispose of him at a moment's notice, do you have any idea how hard it is to see that! So the next time you speak of your curse just remember that Natsu can even see his own death, feel every bone being crushed in his body as he falls down a cliff and dies at least you don't ever have to feel that Mother!"
"Your right Erza I am selfish when you compare my problems to his, how old would he be now I wonder … 835 is it? A man who is biologically nearly 1000 years old yet wasn't allowed to live them because it was ordained by Zeref- no Ahnkseram and yes I know the truth Erza don't look so surprised I knew what he really was. The split personality, bouts of rage and anger, the sudden massacres and the formation of the Empire I knew it all from the first flip of the switch. But what other choice do you have when it's either join him or die?"
"You do the right thing!"
"Really, would you be able to make that same decision? Could you do it if he had Natsu's life on the line?"
"What do you mean?"
"Do you truly believe I sent you with Natsu and Anna on a whim, I sent you so that Zeref lost a bargaining chip over me! When he first saved me I was pregnant with you and couldn't fight back, when I gave birth I was weak and feeble and that was when HE made his presence known."
"Ahnkseram," Erza whispered softly as Irene nodded.
"Yes he made it clear what he wanted from me and should I disobey the consequences were clear, to save you I had to sacrifice myself into his service until you would one day be able to either have Natsu protect you or hide yourself away from the world and hope he never finds you."
"Why didn't you tell Natsu this!"
"Because he wouldn't have believed me, at the time he knew of Ahnkseram but believed his brother was the dominant force in the partnership. Would he believe me over his own flesh and blood?"
"Actually he probably would have."
"It wasn't a risk I was willing to take Erza not with your life on the line, yes at one point I did have selfish desires to take your body as my own but those were dark days and Ahnkseram's bullshit wasn't helping matters!"
"You still should have tried he found out the truth anyway he even has the other half of that bastards soul within him!"
"He what!"
"He took the other half of the soul from Mavis and took it into himself and began stripping it for power and knowledge," Erza said as Irene seemed to be in full panic mode.
"This is not good not good at all, the two halves must not make contact for if they do they will rejoin into one once more!"
"Well isn't that kind of a given?"
"No you don't understand the half that is within Zeref always spoke of playing the waiting game, that his other half would come to him not the other way round! If Natsu is going to take on Zeref he has no idea what he's going to walk into!"
"I don't understand the soul is forcibly trapped within Natsu how can it do anything?"
"Being forcibly trapped means nothing when two halves wish to become whole once again, the amount of power those two would put out during their fight would be the perfect catalyst for a forced resurrection!"
Erza paled at her mother's words as Brandish slowly rose to her feet.
"The battle between Natsu and that monster is heading this way, we must move."
"Indeed it's too dangerous to idle here, are you coming Erza?"
"Where?"
"To safety?"
"No I think I'll stay with my friends and fight against this oppressive Empire thanks."
"I see … are you sure?"
"Yes I'm sure."
"Very well then Erza," Irene said softly as she placed a hand on Brandish's shoulder and the two vanished leaving Erza alone to contemplate the recent conversation.
/Meanwhile On The Alvarez Flagship/
A cloaked figure roamed the empty halls of the Alvarez flagship searching for someone as he stuck to the shadows ensuring any passing patrol was unable to see him after all he was better off not blowing his cover early and risk the target getting away.
Sneaking into what appeared to be the main control room for the airship the man grinned; walking over to the control panel he paused as the smirk changed to a frown.
"So you have returned to me just as I said you would, how does it feel to desire my presence once more?"
"Heh you think I'm here because of you, I'm here to cause as much chaos as I can amongst your ranks as I can!"
"Your life would have been so much simpler had you simply forfeited your body to me … Gray Fullbuster!"
The man's hood fell revealing Gray with his one Devil's Eye active with the black Demonic presence visible on one half of his body.
"What I did under your influence I'll have to life with for the rest of my life but it also opened my eyes and showed me the truth, not all Demons are evil just as not all Gods are righteous!"
"And you had such potential, a pity it has to end this way you would have made a great vessel."
"I don't need you within me anymore Darkness and you couldn't get in even if you wanted to Natsu made sure of that!"
"Ah yes Natsu Dragneel the biggest criminal in this war how does it feel to rely on a Demonic criminal like him knowing you are far too weak to have even the slightest hope of stopping him should he turn?"
"Natsu won't turn if he had the intention to do that he would've done it years ago; instead he worked himself back into everyone's good books. That sounds like a good being if ever I've heard of one but you on the other hand …"
Gray fired a volley of pink coloured ice spikes at The Darkness who faded into the floor reappearing from the roof.
"And with that you have sealed your fate …"
"You know Natsu told me about you, what you really are. You were created by combining the hatred, anger, fear, jealousy, cunning and ambition of every relative of that prick who formed Phantom Lord ages ago and do you know what Natsu said after that? He said thinking back on it your little mind games were pathetic that it took the work of real monsters to push him over the edge you were just the footnote!"
The Darkness began to rush towards him as Gray tossed the cloak aside revealing him to be wearing nothing but board shorts as he assumed a combat stance with a pink magic circle appearing behind him.
"I've been waiting for so long to do this to you, Ice Devil's Scattergun!"
Holding his hands out in front of him Gray began firing Devil laced shards of ice in the shape of shotgun pellets at The Darkness who was immediately forced to evade as he slinked away into the ventilation shafts.
"Don't think you caught the memo pal this here is the war to end all wars," he said with a grin as he fired several more pellets into the controls of the airship as the whole thing began to collapse to one side. "And I won't settle for anything less than to kill you for what you did to me!"
Running out one of the side doors and onto the main deck a group of Alvarez soldiers spotted him and began firing blasts of magic at him; Gray placed a thick sheet of ice between them as he took a deep breath.
Exhaling Gray blew out a stream of pink snow that began to form a slide of sorts right onto the mainland; the soldiers broke through the ice as Gray waved his arm firing several barrages of ice spikes as he jumped onto the slide making his escape with The Darkness following him.
"You will not escape Gray Fullbuster!"
"Pretty sure I'm doin it right now aren't I?"
Standing on the slide Gray assumed a stance as he summoned a large bow made of Ice Devil Magic with ten arrows primed and ready, immediately firing The Darkness was weaving around in midair unaware of Gray's true plan.
Manipulating the slide Gray continued to slide on over the battlefield as he and The Darkness began to trade a series of long ranged attacks, as Gray continued to slide The Darkness began targeting the large slide blowing holes into it as the Ice Make Mage was forced to focus on both dodging the massive holes and the blasts of darkness being sent his way.
"Ice Devil's Hailstorm!"
Extending both his arms outward a large gathering of clouds appeared and began to rain down hundreds of deadly spikes that The Darkness was forced to focus all its attention on them not even having a chance to see the expertly laid trap Gray had set up.
"You're finished."
The Darkness had no time to react as it found itself being sealed within a large sphere which had Ice Devil spikes covering the inside, it tried to escape the trap but was too slow as the only entrance was sealed swiftly.
"Ice Devil's Sub Zero Tartaros!"
The sphere began to slowly compact in on itself as the roars of The Darkness could be heard until they fell silent indicating the job had been done, Gray grinned as he looked at his handiwork across the battlefield.
A large network of slides had been created all over the battlefield and the entire area was blanketed in pink snow which had bogged down the Alvarez soldiers who no doubt hadn't fought in such conditions.
"Are you sure you killed it Gray didn't you say it was a being born of shadow?"
"Relax Juvia even Natsu confirmed that anyone with the powers of the Gods or Devils can touch it so my Ice Devil Slayer Magic combined with my Devil's Eye was more than enough."
"So you finally got it then … does this mean you'll stop running?"
"Maybe, perhaps after this is all over but until then I need to keep fighting. If you want you could join me, you know if you want?"
Juvia flashed Gray a small smile as the two were about to share a moment only for it to be interrupted by the sound of slow clapping.
"Bravo," a distinctly male voice said mockingly. "I didn't think anyone could kill The Darkness yet you managed to do it somehow, at least now you can die with a decent victory to your name."
Looking towards the tree line a man with long white hair and glasses adjusted one of his cufflinks before pointing at Gray.
"You have caused quite enough chaos Gray Fullbuster and have caused millions worth of damage to property of the Empire, punishment is immediate execution."
"And just who are you anyway?"
"My name is Invel Yura, rank number five amongst the Spriggan 12 and his Excellency's Chief of Staff and personal consul when required. I should by all rights fit you with a slave collar for what you have done however Emperor Spriggan has ordered your execution personally and to disobey his Majesty's word is to run contrary to the very name of the 12."
"So you're a bootlicker basically," Gray scoffed as Invel raised an eyebrow in indifference.
"You can joke all you like Gray Fullbuster however know that your actions shall have consequences, observe these friends of yours from Fairy Tail," Invel said as the seemingly lifeless forms of Elfman, Evergreen and Alzack shuffled in from the tree line much to Gray's shock.
"What the hell did you do to them!"
"Observe my Ice Slave, a spell that renders the wearer of these collars completely devoid of free will. All notions of free will and sense of self are removed making them the ideal citizen of the Empire."
Gray was about to rush forward when both he and Juvia were suddenly frozen knee deep by a strange ice that had Gray shivering.
"Now observe Gray Fullbuster the consequences of defying his Majesty," Invel said as he walked calmly over to the three standing before Elfman with both arms behind his back. "Kneel."
The controlled Elfman knelt as instructed as Gray realized just what was about to happen and began to form some magic only to be frozen from the shoulders downward by ice.
"Observe what awaits all those who dare defy the true ruler of Earthland," Invel said as he placed one finger just near Elfman's right eye as a shard of ice formed and shot through his eye socket coming out the back of his head as his body crumpled to the floor in a heap.
"ELFMAN," Gray roared as Juvia cried out in shock.
Ignoring Gray's pleas Invel walked over to Evergreen and ordered her to kneel to which she followed as instructed, just like Elfman she too had a spike of ice tear through her brain killing her instantly.
"YOU SICK FUCKING BASTARD!"
"I am merely dispensing justice as per his Majesty's order, these criminals attacked soldiers of the Empire which is punishable by execution. Do not fear the both of you shall have your turn after all we cannot have any rogue elements running around Alvarez must maintain order."
Placing a finger near Alzack's eye the ice spike shot through his head killing him as Invel simply wiped the blood from his face without even batting an eye at the furious expression of Gray.
"Do you see Gray Fullbuster all actions have consequences, you destroyed Empire property and killed Emperor Spriggan's personal hand so we are simply acting in kind. With my power I shall bring order to this land full of undesirables such as yourself and force you all to bend the knee to the Emperor or suffer the same fate."
"I'm gonna kill you," Gray growled as Invel simply shrugged.
"You can try however time is fast running out for you, sealed up to your shoulders and unable to resist the cold chill of death that crawls up your spine and the water woman Juvia Lockser wouldn't be faring much better."
Gray looked over at Juvia who seemed to be unconscious, Gray thought about why that would be then quickly realized.
"She's made entirely out of water, her internal organs have frozen!"
"And without the blood pumping through her she will cease to be very soon, the idea of cryo sleep is a myth trust me I have tested the theory with my ice it will not be a happy ending for the girl."
"Let her go Invel she wasn't part of any of this," Gray pleaded as Invel shrugged again unfazed by Gray's desperate pleas.
"She was guilty by association, punishment being summary execution."
"And you wonder why Fiore is fighting back who the hell would want to live like that, let Juvia go!"
"You are in no position to demand Gray Fullbuster the only position you have is a front row seat in watching this woman slowly freeze to death before being killed yourself."
Gray could tell Invel was serious; no matter what he said or did there was no getting out of this. He was going to die and he'd dragged Juvia into this, he couldn't access his magic for some reason and his body was beginning to go numb from the cold ice.
"So I guess this is it then, if I'm dying then you're gonna listen to this you pathetic nerd, Fiore will win this no matter what you think! You might think your hot shit but just wait until Natsu or Gildarts find out what you did here, nowhere in this world will be safe enough for you to even blink!"
"Baseless threats from a dying fool, proceeding with termination," Invel said as he began to take steps towards Gray only to pause as a cold breeze blew through the forest.
Invel was shocked when a woman formed from the snow punching him in the face with an ice encrusted fist sending him flying through the forest, Gray however was fighting off tears of joy as said woman looked at him almost pityingly.
"I'm sorry I came so late Gray you're friends …"
"Help me kill him, please help me avenge them Ur!"
Looking up at his Master the woman had an expression he'd not seen on her face, fury and a hell of a lot of it.
"You bet we'll take that bastard down Gray but first let's get you and Juvia out of this ice huh," she said punching the ice shattering it immediately s she punched Juvia's releasing her as Gray ran to her side.
"Her vitals would have all but stopped because she's made entirely of water they'd be frozen we've got to do something!"
"If that's the case then there's only one thing you can do to save her, you need to carry her from this snowy place and take her to someone who can use Fire Magic or some kind of Heat Magic. Choose what you value more revenge or Juvia."
It wasn't even a question as Gray picked up Juvia and began running from the scene leaving behind a smiling Ur.
"Good luck Gray," she said softly before turning and walking off in the direction she sent Invel.
It didn't take Ur long to find Invel who seemed to be waiting for her with his rather calm and composed stance as he adjusted his glasses with one finger sliding them back into place.
"It takes one of remarkable skill to catch me off guard, not only that you managed to wound me with ice. You are an unknown I would have your name?"
"Ur, proud Master of two students who I'm most proud of and Mother of a rather rebellious yet kind-hearted daughter. I won't allow you to sully the name of Ice Magic any further with your barbarism!"
"Where you see barbarism I see order, where you see madness I see unending focus and resolve. Still I suppose your lack of understanding stems from the type of ice you wield being the polar opposite to my own. Ice that burns like fire and is warm to the touch compared to mine that freezes even the fires of hell, to think there was one in this world with mastery not unlike my own."
"Anyone can master an element given time and the will necessary to endure, Gray is on the path to mastering Ice Magic and I won't allow you to corrupt him any further after Natsu fought so hard to put him back on the path!"
Invel raised his right hand without even reacting to her statement as a blizzard began to form behind him pausing just before his back.
"That man does not have what it takes to reach the peak, to reach this level one must make sacrifices though judging by that leg of yours you already know what I mean," Invel said as he motioned to Ur's prosthetic leg made of ice.
"You know nothing of Gray or his struggles, that man has lost far more than I and would have been well beyond me in a few years if you're Empire hadn't interfered," Ur said sharply as she raised her hand with a blizzard forming behind her.
"It seems words alone will not teach you the errors of your ways, though there is no order for execution on you I shall dispense cold justice upon you for interfering with the progress of the Empire!"
Ur narrowed her eyes as the right half of her body slowly began to cover itself in ice as Ur began to release her magic power which began shaking the earth and dropping the temperature significantly.
"Let me show you the results of real devotion to the way of Ice," Ur said as she placed two fingers to her lips blowing a kiss to the wind as the wind began to pick up and a trail of snow and ice blew from her lips. "You are within my garden of eden Invel … welcome to hell."
Invel's eyes widened as one single snowflake began to glow as time seemed to slow down to a near standstill for him to witness Ur's attack.
"Ice Make: The Great Frozen Eden!"
All around him the trees, bushes and grass began to break down and begin reshaping themselves with Ur walking through the event as if it was a mere stroll in the park, the bushes, trees and grass began to reform as a large tree began to rise in the centre with frozen fruit sprouting from its branches as Ur gently plucked one off before looking at Invel.
"Ice Make: Sacred Heart!"
The frozen fruit seemed to glow for a moment before melting revealing a real apple from which Ur took a single bite.
"What type of magic is this," Invel said showing visible surprise the first emotion he'd shown as Ur's magic began skyrocketing.
"The idea that magic is a living; breathing entity has long been debated however I can assure you that it is indeed alive all around us. Long ago I sacrificed my life to bind one of the Demons of Zeref in an unmelting shell of ice until my other student began melting it unaware that I was the ice itself. Although I was revived thanks to the efforts of Natsu and Gildarts Clive part of my person was scattered amongst nature itself trickling into the ocean and seeping into the earth. It took me quite a long time to figure this out but since that day I've always felt much more in tune with the world, with my unique link I figured out the secret to harnessing the magic of nature itself …"
"Wh-what but that cannot be such a link would drive any human mad!"
"Through normal means yes but my revival was by no means normal, I have the ability to call upon magic for strength and although it is limited even but a fraction of magic itself is more than a match for one such as you. To walk the path of magic means one must feel the world around them, its pain, joy, sorrow. These emotions and more all exist around us in an ever turning spiral of life and death that most never experience in their whole lives, I can feel it through the ice Invel and I shall show you the wonders of Frozen Eden."
"Enough of this nonsense, Ice Tsunami!"
The ice behind Invel began to form up in the shape of a wave and came crashing towards Ur who raised her right hand in a stop motion as the ice suddenly froze in place.
"IMPOSSIBLE YOU FROZE UNFREEZABLE ICE!"
"Nothing is unfreezable Invel your ice just isn't on the same level as mine, Ice Make: Eden's Gate!"
The ice that Ur had frozen began to shift and moulded into a giant archway as a path leading directly to the tree at the centre formed, Invel began to run the possibility through his mind that Ur's strategy was to create a battlefield on her terms with this Frozen Eden as the staging ground.
"I will not allow you to control this fight any more than you already have Ur I am the Winter General I cannot be bested by my own element! True Ice Magic – Kamui!"
A strange black ice began to cover Invel as he ran through the Gate of Eden, the ice seemed to be a sort of armor though Ur couldn't tell what for.
"You want to see real Ice Magic, this unholy ice can freeze absolutely anything even the fires of hell! You might have this nature based Ice Magic but mine cannot be defeated!"
"Is that so … let us test this theory then, Ice Make: Eden's Embrace!"
Falling into the nearest bush Invel thought she would have killed herself since the ice was as sharp as knives but to his surprise they moved like leaves as she vanished from sight, spinning around he saw Ur emerge from one of the smaller trees looking no different than before except for some white patches where her skin should have been.
"So let us test this theory then, Unholy Ice versus the Ice of Eden," Ur said as she jumped down to the ground and rushed towards Invel running her hand over the snow and pulling out a large sword made of bright blue ice as she clashed with Invel's own.
The two began to trade powerful blows as a snowstorm whipped up all around them seemingly to fuel their weapons durability, Ur frowned as the black ice began to slowly seep onto her blade with Invel pressing the attack further.
"This ice does not freeze in the traditional sense rather it corrupts turning other ice into itself, in other words it turns the ice into my ice!"
"Is that right," Ur said as the hilt of her sword suddenly vanished leaving Ur open to a horizontal swing from Invel who cut halfway through her body.
"Why do you not scream!"
Ur looked at Invel with a blank stare as the white patches soon covered her whole body and she disappeared into the snowstorm with her voice echoing all around him.
"I told you before Invel I have become one with Ice and Snow, I have walked the path and reached its peak becoming the elements themselves."
"That can't be true then that makes you an immortal!"
"If you were on the same level you would know the answers Invel however I am only as immortal as magic itself, fleeting yet everlasting."
"I won't accept such a thing it defies the logic of all reason!"
Ur appeared from the snowstorm with the same blank look as she stopped before Invel who made no move to attack.
"You aren't a fool I can see that however I can also see you have never been forced to question your viewpoint of the world, what you see before you is real and deep down you know that. However you also should know that what you have done here this day is a sin and I cannot show you mercy, may you find peace in the next life …"
"What, what are you-!"
"Ice Make: Eden's Rose Garden!"
Invel was suddenly bound by thorny vines as a rose bush seemed to sprout up around him propelling the two high into the sky above even the great tree as Ur stood on a cloud.
"This is the end, Ice Make: Eden's Final Calamity – Great Volcano!"
Invel expected something to appear before him but it never came, it wasn't until he registered what she had said that Invel immediately looked down and saw what appeared to be a mountain made of ice forming into the shape of a volcano with a blue liquid bubbling within the centre.
"An interesting substance this I found myself able to conjure it seemingly as a gift from magic itself, they call it liquid nitrogen a substance colder than any ice yet burns hotter than any flame."
The ground below began to shake as the ice volcano began to erupt spraying this liquid nitrogen substance all around destroying the beautiful garden Ur had created melting the thorns holding Invel in the air as the man realized what his fate would be.
Looking downward there was a sea of liquid nitrogen flowing below him as he looked back to Ur showing the first signs of fear he had displayed in a long time, he didn't even have time to plead as the thorny vine snapped and Invel found himself plummeting to his death.
"Let us put your Unholy Ice to the test, will you freeze my Liquid Nitrogen or will you die a slow and agonizing death?"
Invel hit the liquid nitrogen as it immediately began burning through his True Ice – Kamui, quickly he found himself screaming in pain as the ice entered what remained of his suit until he no longer had a tongue to scream with as he was consumed by the sea.
Ur sighed as she jumped off the cloud and with a wave of her hands the volcano disappeared and the nitrogen began seeping into the earth becoming one with magic once more, landing on the ground which had been stripped of almost everything save the dirt Ur looked up to the sky.
"Thank you for the assistance."
/Natsu's POV/
Natsu stood his ground as the Omega Weapon began powering up an attack with its lower head with a powerful laser type attack beginning to form, raising his hands they converted into tendrils that took the shape of a circle as four black magic circles began to form spinning around in a circle.
"Hybrid's Aura: Black Arts – Emalf Reyortsed Citsejam Sedemihcra!"
Taking a deep breath Natsu blew fire into the four magic circles as four cones of condensed black flame began to seep out forming a slow moving sea of black fire that slowly began to cover the sky as Omega fired his own attack that impacted the attack, the beam seemed to catch fire as Natsu flew upward towards Omega whilst his flames ate the attack and turned his arms into blades as he aimed for the midsection of the weapon.
"Hybrid's Aura: Black Arts – Sutseahpeh Fo Sedalb Kcalb!"
His arms glowed with a black aura as he cut cleanly through its torso as the weapon roared with its top body severed however Natsu wasn't done as he kicked off the air and cut the top head from its shoulders.
Kicking off the air again he took a deep breath once again releasing a stream of black fire onto the lower half of its body.
"Hybrid's Aura: Fire Dragon Monarch's Amaterasu Roar!"
Landing on the ground just as both halves of the weapon hit the floor Natsu looked right past it with his eyes locked squarely on several individuals walking towards him.
"An impressive display of power just like Lord Zeref himself."
"Indeed such mastery over ones power is a rare achievement though it's not like we should be surprised."
Despite how calm Natsu felt he couldn't help but feel slight anger looking at the two men standing before him knowing what they'd done.
"Hello August or should I say hello dear Nephew, which would you prefer?"
August seemed surprised at Natsu's calm demeanour and his opening words but quickly composed himself as he placed his staff on the ground as both he and the man next to him sat.
"So you acknowledge me as family then?"
"Yes," Natsu replied as he sat across from them. "Despite the rather vile means used to conceive you I cannot fault you for your existence that blame falls upon your Father. A long time ago I hated you August for what you did to Scarlione but all these years later I've come to realize something."
"And what would that be?"
"You and I aren't all that different if you think about it, by all rights I shouldn't exist right now either and I wield an ungodly amount of power at my fingertips. I know my parents yet I know not their love because that one memory and the feelings associated with it appear to be absent from my mind despite the one where I experience my own death being intact."
"I do not know how I feel about this, my whole life I have spent never once talking of family and yet here today I sit before the Uncle my own Father obsessed over all my life and he has been more accepting of me despite my past transgressions."
"We are enemies August that much is certain however that doesn't mean we have to hate each other, despite being as powerful as you are I have come to see why so many powerful mages bend the knee before Zeref. His inner Demons are the real enemy and the driving force behind this mad quest for domination over all."
"So you know of Ahnkseram then?"
"The first Hybrid yes I know of him," Natsu said as a stray spell bounced off the trio as if there was some kind of repel spell around them.
"Then you know what must be done?"
"Destroy both halves of its soul to end this madness, if you don't mind my asking why do you care?"
"I care because at the end of the day he is my Father just as you are my Uncle, although I do not understand the emotions I understand the significance of your powers and the consequences of what Ahnkseram plans on using them for."
"But you would still impede my progress to Zeref?"
"I am bound to service Uncle just as you are bound to your own obligations, the pieces had been set long ago and if I am fated to die or to kill you this day then that is what shall be however know this Uncle should you struggle to defeat me then Father will crush you."
"And what about you," Natsu asked turning to the man next to him. "What is your take on all this?"
"As you may or may not know my name is Sentomaru leader of the Leichart 12 and the only one who can even remotely match August, I too believe much the same as August that this conflict is designed for the benefit of Ahnkseram and no one else. Millions have died today and more continue to die with heavy losses on both sides already mounting yet we are expected to believe we are to take on Achnologia with a united Earthland after this? The idea is ludicrous at best."
"I see, I'm glad we could speak before our fight begins it has been an enlightening experience."
"Indeed however there are a few more who are involved in this that you will have a hard time facing but know that we would not have done so if Ahnkseram had not forced us to.
Natsu, August and Sentomaru stood as Natsu looked past them to several more people who began to approach, his calm demeanour was struggling to stay in place as the newcomers arrived to stand beside August and Sentomaru.
"This is impossible, how has he done this!"
"One of the Spriggan 12 by the name of Neinhart has a spell called Historia of the Dead that is able to revive people from the memories of anyone in their prime," August explained as Natsu nodded slowly as he envision this Neinhart man's death.
"You have grown since we last met Natsu though it is clear you have unlocked a power even I cannot comprehend."
"Hello my Queen I feel nothing but shame knowing that you died because of my cowardice," Natsu said as the revived Queen Illyandra shook her head.
"It wasn't your fault Natsu Achnologia was simply too powerful you had every right to flee; besides you now stand here much more powerful because of that decision."
"Did the others get away at least?"
"I cannot answer that Natsu because I was the first to die at the Dragon's claw trying to buy time," Illyandra replied as Natsu nodded slowly before nearly choking up at the next two.
"This is really strange," Natsu managed to get out as the reanimated versions of his Mother and Father smiled sadly.
"You have grown up to be a very interesting man Natsu," Ardyn Dragneel said as Natsu fought back tears.
"Only because I died and got resurrected by Zeref through the Black Arts."
"We can feel what is happening with your brother Natsu and it hurts us to see the two of you fight," Reiju Dragneel said with a few tears.
"Zeref showed me what happened that day, Achnologia's attack and how you summoned the Celestial Spirit King using the Diamond Key, you did everything you could and yet things still ended up like this to the point that you're well earned rest has been disturbed."
"It's alright son because we've got a chance to see our youngest son fighting for what is true and just what more could a parent want right," Ardyn said with a goofy grin.
"It seems you took my words about magic to heart Natsu using magic to protect I'm so proud of you."
"I've killed thousands many out of rage I'm far from innocent Mother but I like to think that for the most part I'm a good person, well a good Demon."
"You know what's coming don't you Natsu," Ardyn asked as Natsu nodded slowly.
"Yeah we're gonna have to fight."
"You mustn't hold back for even a moment dear or you'll end up like us," Reiju said as Natsu nodded slowly.
"My wife would come find me in the afterlife and kill me again if I died," Natsu chuckled sadly as the two smiled.
"You are married then, children?"
"Just an adopted daughter though I get the feeling that Erza might be pregnant but it's hard to tell, looking at her with my eyes I can see two magic cores not one but-!"
"Natsu it's starting," Ardyn said with a strained face as he tried to fight the urge to battle for as long as he could.
"You don't have to go it alone Natsu after all I wouldn't be a very good mentor if I didn't help my precious student out in a situation like this now would I?"
Turning around Natsu saw to his absolute shock and joy Gildarts walking towards him taking his place beside him.
"The legendary Gildarts Clive, things just got a whole lot more interesting," Sentomaru said as Gildarts grinned.
"I know you love me calling you old man but the beard really makes you look like one you know, do you even know what a bath is?"
"Natsu I came to help but if you plan on insulting me I can sit over there-."
"Nonono its cool I was just saying you look different, good different!"
"Yeah its fine Ur hates it too," Gildarts sighed before looking at Illyandra. "Sorry about all this Illy."
"Its fine Gildarts I'm glad someone is here for Natsu, he's really come into his own but everyone needs support every once and awhile."
Gildarts nodded in agreement as both he and Natsu began to release their magic power as their opponents began to do the same.
"You still remember all the combos from the last war Natsu?"
"How could I forget you'd beat them into me so I wouldn't," Natsu replied dryly as Gildarts chuckled.
"Yeah well we're probably gonna need all of em to come out of this mess with at least one limb intact."
Natsu sighed knowing it was true as August and Sentomaru began to release their own power as the four forces smashed against each other violently sending everyone nearby running for the hills not wanting to be caught up in such a conflict.
"Man it's gonna be good to fight alongside you properly again Natsu."
"Indeed it has been too long, shame it couldn't be under better circumstances. So remind Alvarez why they used to fear us!"
"Couldn't agree more," Gildarts said as both he and Natsu charged toward Sentomaru and August with Ardyn, Reiju and Illyandra bringing up the rear for Alvarez as the initial clash between the four seemed to send the weather into a frenzy as lightning bolts rained down with the earth fracturing for miles and the wind blowing wildly all around.
Inside Natsu's mind Ahnkseram grinned, his eyes glowing ominously in the darkness as he began to thrash around in the chains once more.
"It won't be long now Dragneel before I am reborn just a little longer now …"
So a lot of stuff happened this chapter we got the return of Ur and Gildarts after so long, the elimination of several more key players and the deaths of several others. We also have the beginning of the fight between Natsu and Gildarts vs August, Sentomaru, Illyandra, Reiju and Ardyn which will probably be a whole chapter to itself if not more depending on how I decide to spin it haven't decided quite yet we'll see how it goes.
Let me know if you like chapters this long and I'll try to do more and be sure to let me know if you thought I did a good job or need to improve writing chapters of this length feedback is always appreciated!
And again thanks once again to all of you who have supported me as this story has progressed you lot are the best and there would have been no way I would have had the confidence to get this far if so many of you didn't throw your support into the story each and every review or PM expressing how awesome or badass you think something in the story was or how great a chapter was just makes my day and is half the reason why I try and upload as much as possible when I can just so I can continue to thank you all for your support!
When I first started the idea of this story was nothing like it is becoming now with it being Vol I in a series something I wouldn't have ever pictured when I first started.
And again my famous rambling but I can't say thank you enough other than to continue writing and entertaining you all doing my best to provide the best chapters I can!
And so I hope you all continue to enjoy this and I'll see you in the next one!