Chapter 18: Vision


[Previously:]

The three dragon slayers carefully put their mates down so the girls could rest and eat, before grabbing Orga and throwing him to Wendy. The young dragon slayer side-eyeing the broken man, deciding to drag him to the infirmary tent for treatment.

Everyone was afraid to make the tension worse, Makarov coughing in his hand awkwardly as Mavis's ears twitched in excitement. Mirajane cut the silence, smiling sweetly, "So, what's for lunch?"

After a while, everything turned back to normal… Even Ichiya made it back to camp. Everybody was eating, resting, or getting treated for their injuries. Makarov waited patiently to question how their training went and wanted to discuss their battle strategy.


(Master Makarov POV.)

I watched my children interact with one another, seeming carefree, despite the knowledge a war was approaching. Sighing, 'The damn Magic Council is going to have my head… Unless we can do this without breaking anything—Pshh, yeah, like that's gonna happen. Damn brats!'

However, I am a little fearful of what the First-Master explained this morning.

[Flashback]

The First-Master pulled me from everybody, out of complete earshot, especially from the dragon slayers—With the expression she had, it must've been life or death.

When far enough, Mavis turned, eyes narrowed in seriousness, "I got information about the upcoming war that is to happen."

The news had me turning serious too, Mavis continuing to speak, "Since I am technically a spirit, I don't require sleep, so I stayed up to watch and guard in case someone or an animal were to attack—Zeref visited… Do not give me that look Makarov, he did not do anything. He… He didn't even know about the war." The thought shocked me… Zeref not knowing about the war? How could he not? Isn't he helping Lisanna!

"Sixth Master… The demons are using Lisanna as a part of their goal to wake up E.N.D!" Mavis exclaimed.

A course of emotion went through me from anger, confusion, worry and fear, "Waking up E.N.D?! That will be the destruction of all mankind! How did they even find out who he is? They weren't ever supposed to know… What is Lisanna thinking?!" I took a deep breath, calming down as Mavis mumbled, completely troubled, "You and I are both aware who the real E.N.D is, and what he is capable if awaken—If things were to turn south during this war… She is the ONLY one that can save us."

My eyes widened, "You don't mean—But First, she doesn't even know herself or what she is truly capable of… Her powers aren't even unlocked! What if—" Mavis raised a small hand, the action making me immediately stop talking. "I know, but this is our only chance… The calculations around it… Well let's say it's inevitable," We both glanced at Natsu and Lucy as the two laughed, "We must have fate that her power will unlock before its too late. She is the only one that can stop him…"

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"The Dragon Princess."

[Flashback Ended]

Shaking my head, I dismissed the memory and stood from my seat, Mavis giving a nod of approval—Clearing my throat to try and gain the attention of everyone… It didn't work. I could hear Mavis giggling as I sent her a quick glare before doing it again. Nothing. Soon enough, the First-Master was full blown laughing as anger built up inside that had me growing to my giant form. Voice changed into a darker and scarier tone, "LISTEN UP BRATS!" I yelled, the island shaking.

Everyone reacted in their own way, which I found quite amusing.


(Normal POV.)

Natsu, Gajeel, and Laxus instinctively gathered their mates into their arms, believing the sound to be a threat. "WAHH! What the heck—?" Lucy shouted, dropping her half-eaten sandwich. "What the heck do you think you're doing Gajeel?!" Levy huffed, squirming to crawl out of his arms but Gajeel's grip was too tight. "Laxus… If you don't release me… Right. Now." Mirajane trailed off, a murderous aura forming… All three completely forgot that their inner-dragon was currently in control until the dragon slayer growled that had them freezing, sweatdropping. "Uh, we mean… Natsu/Gajeel/Laxus!" They shouted lovingly, wrapping their arms around the guys with nervous smiles.

Wendy and Panther Lily were grinning at the girl's actions, while Romeo and Happy were laughing until the blue Exceed turned silent when Carla accidentally spat her mouthful of tea on him from Makarov's booming voice. "Uh, sorry Tom-Cat…" Carla sheepishly muttered, Happy's fur soaked. He shook himself, getting rid of the wetness, and when it was gone, Happy sighed in relief. That is, until he blew up like a cotton ball. "Bwahahahaha!" Panther Lily and Romeo changed their course of laughter. Happy, looking like a blue cotton ball, launched himself at Carla in tears and started complaining about his rival, "Carlaaa! Panther Lily is being mean!"

Erza didn't hesitate to gather Jellal in her arms like a princess, summoning one of her swords and wearily of possible danger, "Do not worry, I shall protect you!" Jellal's face burned in full embarrassment at Erza carrying him than the other way around. He even tried to escape but Erza's grip was too tight—Meredy noticed and started quietly laughing so Erza couldn't hear, "Princess Jellal, would you like diamonds or pearls in your tiara?" Jellal glared, the sight having Meredy tumble from the log and laughing her ass off even more.

Ichiya tried to protect Erza, throwing himself at her, "My honey-bun, are you alright—Mannn!" His sentence was cut off. Erza dropped Jellal on the ground, adding to the amusement of Meredy, as she kicked Ichiya straight to the sky and somewhere far… Only two of the Trimens followed afterward: Hibiki and Eve. The former ended up accidentally tackling Jenny to the ground, ruining her favorite pink. While Eve tried to protect Chelia, only to trip over a branch and shoving her into a bush. Both Jenny and Chelia spat in annoyance before kicking them far into the sky too. Ren was the lucky of the three that didn't feel a lady's high-kick, having smoothly wrapped his arm around Sherry and turning his head to hide a blush.

Araña got scared, spiderwebs accidentally shooting out of her hands and hitting her friends; Beth, Risley, Millianna, and Kagura. All four screamed in a real pitch tone, Araña apologizing as she tried freeing them.

Macao and Wakaba took a hold of each other protectively, screaming in a girly-high pitched fashion before coughing in their hands, trying to seem manly. "That's not a real man!" Elfman yelled at them, only to get beaten by an angry Evergreen for his word choice.

Freed and Bickslow were trying to finish their Go-Fish game, but they both ended up crying in a corner as the cards flew away again because of Master's loud voice, "NOT AGAIN!"

Cana and Bacchus accidentally spilled their beer all over Gray and Lyon, "What the hell—OUR CLOTHES!" The two shouted angrily. "Y-Your clothes? *Hic* W-What about MY beer?!" Cana growled, throwing an empty bottle at Gray and hitting him, Juvia crying in the background, "Nooo! Not Gray-sama!" While Bacchus merely gave the two ice-mages a once-over, "Besides… *Hic* W-What clothes?"

Jura appeared calm and collected, not once flinching… However, in the background, six-rock pillars shot from underneath Jäger, Semmes, Rocker, Max, Droy and Jet into the air. "THIS IS SO NOT WILD!" Jäger, Semmes, and Rock screamed like girls, hugging one another. "Levyyy! SAVE US!" Droy and Jet cried, while Max screamed and clutched on a picture of a… Broom?

Rufus was inside the medical tent at the time, watching Porlyusica finish her bandage wrapping around an unconscious Orga… Wendy didn't want to use her healing magic until after training and the war was done. However, when the island rumbled, Porlyusica accidentally tightened one of the wrappings that had him waking up as a shot of pain went through Orga's body, the god slayer struggling. The healer glared, a "tch" leaving her lips before Porlyusica grabbed a broom to knock him out, Rufus sweatdropping at the action. Deciding to leave, he snuck out of the tent and once safe, Rufus chuckled and safe-stored that memory to show everyone after the war.

Yukino held Lector in her arms, while Rogue shielded Frosch protectively. Although their attention was directed at Sting, who was screaming like a manic with his arms flailing, "The island is sinking! We're all gonna die here… There are so many things that I still wanted to do in life—I STILL HAVEN'T WATCHED THE NEW EPISODE OF FIORE'S NEXT BACHELOR!"

And, as for Warren… He passed out from all the multiple shouts in his head, having lost control of his magic and read everyone's mind at once.

Master Makarov shrunk down from his giant form, clearing his throat and this time, gaining everyone's attention as they all froze. "Okay, now that I have your attention—Tomorrow, we shall be heading back to the guild for the war that is to come. Be sure to get in some extra training because this is the last session of the day—Then, I want you all to go find somewhere to bathe! You guys stink! Afterward, we'll discuss battle plans before resting… NOW, GET MOVING BRATS!"

Everyone left in their groups for extra training… All except Orga, who was still needing to recover from his injuries.

…Hours later, everyone returned dirty and exhausted—Gathering their sleeping clothes and bathroom utensils to wash up.

Lucy, Levy, and Mirajane were about to follow the group of girls until each one was swooped into the air by their dragons, heading in different directions. Happy instinctively spread his wings to follow Natsu and Lucy, while Panther Lily flew behind Levy and Gajeel.

All the guys blushed a deep red, thinking about the male dragon slayers and how they'll be bathing with their mates… and seeming them naked. Even Makarov had a perverted and thoughtful expression, only to get wiped off when Porlyusica beat him with a broom. The girls just giggled, Erza trying her hardest not to faint or run after them to save the girl's innocence.


(Lucy POV.)

I was in shock when Natsu technically kidnapped me… The fire dragon slowed once reaching our destination—It was a small pool that connected to a giant tree, the leaves providing shelter from prying eyes. The sky was almost getting dark, so we'd have to bathe fast. "LUSHIEEE!" A shout was heard in the distance when my feet touched the ground, turning to see Happy barreling at full speed into my chest. He looked up, tears shining in the corner of his eyes, "Y-You left me behind!"

My eyes softened, petting his blue fur, "I'm sorry, Happy. Come on, let's get cleaned up together before it turns into night."

"Aye!" Happy smiled, not moving from his place in my arms. When turning around to the pool of water, Natsu was already in it… His wings folded back, and tail gone. I squealed in embarrassment at the fact he was naked, Natsu's clothes littering the floor.

Flustered, I placed Happy on a tree branch and organized my things… However, I ordered Natsu to close his eyes, earning an eye roll as I tried to get out of my clothes quickly before easing myself into the water. Grabbing some soap, I mixed the scented liquid into the water to make bubbles, so my body was semi-hidden. I was about to bring Happy inside the bath, until he complained about it being too cold.

Humming, my nose scrunched in thought—I knew by asking Natsu to heat up the water, he'd accidentally boil me alive. Instead, I shut my eyes and concentrated on heating up the water with the little abilities Natsu gave me… Soon enough, the water became warm, yet it wasn't as hot as I would've liked it. When opening my eyes, Happy was staring in awe and Natsu's mouth was agape with a sense of pride swirling into his eyes. Blushing, I took Happy into my arms and started washing him first.

"Lushie, you're like a mom, you know," Happy muttered, eyes shut tightly while I scrubbed his fur with vanilla scented shampoo. The comment had me halting, surprised before chuckling and rinsing him off the soap, "Well someone has to keep you nice and clean for Carla, right Happy?"

"Aye sir!"

Finishing with Happy, I let him relax in the water and turned to see Natsu. The pink haired dragon slayer stared with a certain twinkle in his eyes, cheeks burning, I huffed and made him turn around… Much to his disappointment. I didn't wish to stand right now being naked, so it was difficult to wash the mess of his hair being shorter than him—I swear, I could hear Natsu purring as rumbles vibrated from deep within his chest. A snicker reached my ears, glancing over my shoulder to see Happy with a bubble-beard, "Look! I'm that fat-red old guy… Ho, Ho, Ho, Merry Fish-mas—AHH, I got it in my eyes!" I blinked once, then twice, to see Happy diving into the water to get rid of the soap that was stinging his eyes. The Exceed swam back to the surface, refusing to play with the bubbles again… That is, until he thought of a bubble hat to make.

When rinsing Natsu's hair, I made him wash his own body as I worked on mine—After the three of us were all cleaned, and I got the soap out of Happy's eyes again, Happy and I used Natsu as a dryer. Although the Exceed wasn't too thrilled about blowing up like a cotton ball again. Laughing, we finished up before Natsu flew us back to the campgrounds while I tried to smooth out Happy's fur.


(Levy's POV.)

My whole face felt hot, and I was sure it looked like a tomato right now! Whining, I buried my face into the palms of my hands in embarrassment about the fact that I'll be sharing a bath with Gajeel… Even if it's just his dragon-side. Gajeel is still Gajeel.

In the distance, I could hear Panther Lily behind us in the air, the three of us landing where a small river was. It was deep enough to swim but not a strong current, which was good. Placing my bag down on a rock, I prepared to gather things like soap. Turning around, I squeak to see Gajeel already naked and jumping into the water. Immediately, I almost passed out from blood rushing to my head as I swiftly turned the other way... After checking out his ass—Panther Lily, in cat-form, smirked, "In Happy's words… Youuu likeeeeee him~" I didn't know my face could get any redder than it did, the Exceed snickering as he flew to the other side of the river where he couldn't see the two of us. A bar of soap in his paws.

"Mate… Shrimp," A husky voice grunted from the river… Taking a deep breath, I quickly undressed before jumping into the water. However a metal-cold tail wrapped around my petite waist, pulling me closer to the iron dragon slayer. My eyes snapped open, not even realizing I closed them, only to see the water reach Gajeel's chest while my head barely managed to stay up from drowning.

Blushing, I untangled myself and swam back, instinctively wrapping my arms around myself. Gajeel eyed me, more specifically, my body through the ripples of water. I couldn't help the words that left me from embarrassment, "TURN AROUND METAL-BROW!" Instantly, a hand flew to my mouth as I realized what happened, glancing up to see Gajeel with an emotionless face before he chuckled, "Gihi, he got a feisty mate… or should I say, WE—Fine shrimp, I'll let you have your time, but sooner or later I'll be seeing all of you."

After Gajeel turned around with a lingering promise in the air, steam came out of my ears. I placed both hands on my cheeks, shaking my head to get rid of the dirty thoughts, 'Dammit, why did I read all those dirty-novels before letting Erza and Lu-chan borrow them!' Taking a deep breath, I started to calm down.

Swimming to the edge of the river where the shampoo was, I peeked over my shoulder to see Gajeel's back was facing toward me as he relaxed in the water. Sighing in relief, I washed my hair and body clean before diving underwater to get rid of the soap. When I was done, I called Gajeel over and not even a second later did a tail wrap around my waist. "Here… Clean yourself with these, then we can head back," I instructed, Gajeel taking the items before releasing me and going to wash up on the other side of the river. As he was distracted, I climbed out of the river before grabbing a towel where my bag was, drying myself off and getting into some comfortable clothes. Soon enough, Panther Lily was flying over, looking completely wet. Chuckling, I handed him the towel I used so he could dry himself off… I couldn't help myself, bursting into laughter when his fur puffed like a floating balloon. "Great, I'm never gonna hear the end of this from Happy."

My laughter turned into light giggles, especially when hearing Gajeel get out of the water. Not thinking straight, I turned around with a smile only for my jaw to drop at the sight of him fully naked and shaking his long hair. Blushing, my eyes traveled from his abs to… A cough was heard from behind, as I turned with embarrassment at being caught to see Panther Lily with a smirk on his face. "D-Don't say a word, got it! Now, go and give him the towel and clean clothes," I huffed, the Exceed chuckling but doing what was said.

Later on, when flying into the sky… Gajeel still appeared natural and grumpy, while fluffy-ball Panther Lily flew in sync with a smug grin. Growling, I puffed out my cheeks in a pout and turned to look anywhere but them.


(Mirajane POV.)

I was in Laxus's arms as he flew us to a place to get cleaned up. 'I swear, Laxus is lucky that he is not in control, or I would've kicked his ass for kidnapping me!' Glancing down, I noticed he was heading to a small beach part of the island—HOW IS A BEACH SUPPOSED TO CLEAN YOU?!

Huffing, I saw Laxus strip and throw his clothes in the sand before going deeper into the water—Like hell am I going to strip in front of this jerk! Especially in an open area… Instead, I requiped into a yellow bikini that was kinda revealing, but not too bad. Although I did notice before being "kidnapped", I saw Natsu and Gajeel do the same with Lucy and Levy.

Images of pink and blonde-haired babies came to mind, as well, blue and black-haired ones! I couldn't help but fangirl on my favorite ships that were coming true. 'AHHH, I can't believe it! I knew Natsu and Lucy were perfect for each other, and Levy and Gajeel were cute too, but for their dragon side to notice too! Oh, I better be the godmother of all their wonderful and beautiful babies. Hm… I'm thinking 33 each! OH, I can't wait until I get Erza and Jellal together… or maybe, Gray and Juvia. Maybe even…', "Mate," 'Yukino and Sting! Or, or…', "Mira.", 'Kagura and Rogue… but that'll be tough,' "Mira!", 'The two don't seem to look at each other much, and,' "Mirajane!", 'They're both so quiet… Maybe the two can bond over—' "DEVIL WOMEN!"

"WHATTT?!" I shouted, interrupted by my matchmaker thoughts and sounding more like my she-devil form. A crack formed underneath my left eye. Turning with a glare at whoever disturbed me to see Laxus in front, arms crossed against his built-chest and tail covering his private area. Laxus raised a single eyebrow, unaffected at my outburst… Without a word, he hosted me over his shoulder as I tried to escape from his grasp, only to be thrown into the cold and salty water. "What the hell Laxus! Even your dragon-side is a complete and total asshole! I—" My words died hearing a deep chuckle, an arm wrapping around my waist to pull me closer to the lightning dragon. My eyes narrowed, even I couldn't deny the light pink in my cheeks, not being able to look at him—I mean, I've had a small crush on him since childhood when we'd constantly fight.

A pair of hands tilted my chin upward, as a pair of golden eyes came into view… I preferred his normal eyes—Laxus leaned down, appearing like he was going to kiss me as I sucked in a gasp, only for him to smirk at the last-minute and swim away. My jaw dropped, and I couldn't tell if I was angry or disappointed… I decided on both. "LAXUS!" I screamed in frustration, splashing the water and hearing him laugh. Suddenly, Laxus threw something in my direction, and I instinctively caught it to see a shampoo bottle and bar of soap. Eyes rolling, I decided to wash myself since it was getting dark already, 'Not like I can wash in a freakin' ocean though with all this saltwater! Laxus, just wait until you're normal… You're gonna get an ass-kicking of your lifetime.'

Half an hour passed until Laxus was dressed and I requiped into a night-tee with comfortable shorts. Before I knew it, Laxus swooped me in his arms again and flew into the sky. From different directions, I saw Natsu, Lucy, Happy, Gajeel, Levy and Panther Lily. I waved at the girls, smiling sweetly… But I noticed Natsu and Gajeel sniffing the air, gazing at me and Laxus with narrowed and curious eyes. Pursuing their lips, one looked at Laxus and the boys shut their mouths.


(Normal POV.)

Everyone arrived back at the campsite, nice and clean… They felt refreshed and comfortable. Master Makarov decided this was the best time to discuss their battleplans. While Wendy and Chelia healed everyone's wounds and bruises for the war.

Nearly an hour passed… The strategy was difficult, but the First-Master explained and found out the Nine Demon Gates from the book of Zeref; Known as Jackal, Seilah, Franmalth, Torafuzar, Tempester, Ezel, Keyes, Kyôka, and another one that was nicknamed Zero. The leader was known as E.N.D, but Mard Geer held possession of his book… When the information was done and exchanged, everybody went to their own tents for much needed rest. Tomorrow, they're all supposed to train one last time before going home—However, Mavis couldn't help but feel a sense of dread… AS if this strategy would be completely useless.

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All around, the guild was torn into pieces.

"W-What are they doing here?! This wasn't planned… We can't handle them ourselves! Everyone is still not here yet!"

Laughter, eerie laughter echoed out… Familiar screams and cries in the air… Then, there was so much… So much blood! Everybody that bore the Fairy Tail mark was lifeless on the guild floors.

Demons surrounded them, grinning devilishly—Soon, someone came into view… A girl with short white-hair. SHE was laughing the hardest, blood speared upon her lips.

"Heh, that's what you flies get! I can't wait until your precious nakama comes, only to see their friends dead in their very own home, with us standing over them!"

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Blood was everywhere—

E.N.D was released!

Mavis, everyone was close to death.

Screams!

Cries!

A blurry figure of E.N.D was about to tear Gray apart!

And the ice-mage didn't seem to be winning.

Death, that's what waited for everyone until a high-pitch scream had everyone freezing in place—A sense of Déjà vu building.

Lucy.

"Stop… PLEASE STOP! LEAVE. MY. FAMILY. ALONE!"

Then—Dragon roars echoed in the sky.

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A figure woke up, startled and eyes blown wide in fear… Glancing around at a lacrima to see it was close to sunrise—the vision… She needed to warn everyone, they needed to leave… NOW, before it's too late!

Running out of the tent, "EVERYONE, WAKE UP! WE NEED TO GO, RIGHT NOW!"

Alarmed at the fearful tone, everyone was running out of their tents, Master being the first to rush over. "What is it… Carla?"

The urgency in the white Exceed was overwhelming so that Carla could barely speak, shaking her head as tears stung. "No! We need to leave… I don't have time; We don't have time! W-We gotta go… Back h-home. I promise to explain on the boat ride back but for now… We. Need. To. Leave!" Master Makarov must've noticed Carla had a horrid vision, face turning serious and ordering for everyone to gather their things and start heading out.

Blinking her tears away, Carla's whole body shook. "Carla…?" Through a blurry of teary eyes, Carla saw Happy staring in concern. Soon enough, the Exceed ran into the embrace of the tom-cat and cried her eyes out. 'Those visions… I hope we can stop the first one, no, I know we will! But… do we even have a chance to change the second, or is it fate?'