Divine Betrayal: A Demon's Rise to Power

by stormyraz

In a world where fate hold sway, Natsu Dragneel's journey begins with betrayal and resurrection. Raised by a dragon, he seeks transcendence beyond mortal limits.(No power of Friendship-Demon,Dragons and other mytical being appper and are stronger,people die here,This is about Natsu and other charachers i chose to be in the main cast.

22. Tower of Heaven

Chater-22: Tower of Heaven

The newly formed Sovereign Vanguard had secured a private stretch of beach, a secluded haven where the sun-drenched sand met the gentle lapping waves in perfect harmony. With the azure sea stretching endlessly before them and the golden rays of the sun painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, it was a scene straight out of a paradise postcard.

Natsu and Gray, fueled by their boundless energy and playful spirits, dashed into the crystal-clear waters, their water magic enhancing their every move. With synchronized precision, they conjured waves, riding them with exhilarating skill, their laughter echoing across the tranquil expanse.

Meanwhile, on the warm sand, the girls basked in the sun's embrace, reclining on plush beach towels beneath colorful umbrellas. Seilah poured refreshing drinks into glasses, her movements graceful and fluid, while Lucy and Erza engaged in animated conversation.

"So, what do you think the new guild hall will look like?" Lucy asked, taking a leisurely sip of her Margarita, the tangy flavor dancing on her tongue.

Erza glanced towards the horizon, contemplating Lucy's question before responding. "Well, it's supposed to resemble more of a castle, and there will be a few changes in the rules as well," she replied, her gaze momentarily lingering on Natsu as he rode the waves.

Erza was dressed in a stunning two-piece white bikini, her attire accentuating her toned physique, with a light cloth draped elegantly around her waist. Seilah, standing nearby, mirrored Erza's outfit but in sleek black, exuding an air of effortless sophistication.

Lucy, reclining on her beach towel, sported a similar ensemble, her red cloth wrapped around her shoulders adding a vibrant splash of color to her beach attire. With the sun's golden rays casting a radiant glow upon them, the trio looked every bit the epitome of relaxation and beauty against the backdrop of the tranquil beach scene.

As the day unfolded, the members of the Sovereign Vanguard embraced the leisurely pace of beach life, indulging in various activities that brought them closer together as friends and allies.

Erza, ever the competitive queen, organized a friendly game of beach volleyball, her competitive spirit shining through as she rallied her teammates Seilah and Lucy against Natsu and Gray.

Seilah, with her keen eye for detail, took charge of setting up a makeshift barbecue station, expertly grilling an array of savory delights that filled the air with mouth watering aromas.

Lucy, with her creative flair on full display, decided to entertain her companions with a target practice session. Natsu and Gray eagerly grabbed their pistols, ready to show off their marksmanship skills, while Erza and Lucy herself opted for their trusty bows.

Seilah, not having a long-range weapon of her own, borrowed one of Natsu's pistols. However, her lack of experience with firearms became evident as she struggled to find the right stance. Natsu, ever the helpful teammate, stepped in to assist her, guiding her through the correct posture with patience and encouragement.

But what started as innocent instruction soon took a playful turn as Seilah, perhaps intentionally, butchered her stance repeatedly, resulting in Natsu's hands inadvertently brushing against her in the process. Each adjustment brought them closer together until Erza, catching onto the playful antics, intervened with a playful spank to Seilah's backside.

The mischievous atmosphere threatened to escalate further, but Lucy and Gray's presence served as a welcome reminder that they were not alone, preventing the situation from spiraling out of control.

Amidst the laughter and playful banter, Erza's firm yet playful intervention managed to defuse the situation, much to the relief of Lucy and Gray. Sensing the potential for further mischief, they exchanged knowing glances, silently grateful for Erza's quick action.

Seilah, although initially disappointed by the interruption, couldn't help but chuckle at the playful scolding she received from Erza. "Alright, alright, I'll behave," she conceded with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, earning a playful grin from Natsu in return.

With the tension diffused and the mood lightened, the target practice session resumed, albeit with a renewed sense of camaraderie and affection among the group. Natsu and Gray demonstrated their shooting skills with impressive accuracy, while Erza and Lucy's arrows found their marks with precision.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the tranquil beach, the members of the Sovereign Vanguard gathered around the makeshift target range, exchanging stories and laughter late into the evening.

At the hotel the next morning

Natsu awoke with a contented smile as he found Erza and Seilah nestled on his chest, their peaceful expressions a reflection of the love and warmth they shared. It was a familiar sight that never failed to fill him with joy.

With a gentle shake, Natsu roused his beloved wives from their slumber. "Rise and shine, lovers," he murmured, his voice soft and affectionate as he tenderly caressed their cheeks, his touch a silent reassurance of his love and devotion to them both.

Erza stirred first, her eyes fluttering open to meet Natsu's gaze with a fond smile. "Good morning, my dear," she greeted him, her voice soft and filled with warmth as she leaned in to place a tender kiss on his lips.

Seilah, still drowsy from sleep, murmured in agreement, her arms wrapping around Natsu in a loving embrace. "Morning," she mumbled sleepily, nuzzling into his chest with a contented sigh.

As they lingered in the comfort of each other's arms, the morning sun filtering through the curtains, not letting the girls sleep any longer.

Not letting the girls sleep any longer, Natsu gently nudged them to rise from their cozy nest. "Come on, sleepyheads," he teased playfully, his eyes twinkling with affection as he encouraged them to start their day.

Erza and Seilah, albeit reluctantly, finally relented to Natsu's gentle urging. With shared laughter and affectionate murmurs, they untangled themselves from their comfortable positions, stretching languidly as they prepared to greet the day.

With a shared sense of excitement, Natsu, Erza, and Seilah made their way to the beach, eager to embrace the day's adventures under the bright morning sun. The soft sand welcomed their bare feet as they strolled along the shore, the gentle rhythm of the waves providing a soothing backdrop to their conversation.

As they reached their favorite spot on the beach, they spotted Lucy and Gray already there, basking in the morning sunlight. Lucy waved enthusiastically as she spotted her friends approaching, while Gray flashed them a grin, his easy going demeanor reflecting the carefree spirit of the seaside.

"Good morning, everyone!" Lucy called out cheerfully, her voice carrying over the sound of the waves. "Isn't it a beautiful day?"

"It certainly is," Erza agreed with a smile, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "And it's even better with all of us together."

Seilah nodded in agreement, her gaze sweeping over the tranquil scene before them. "Indeed. There's something special about spending time with friends by the sea."

Natsu grinned, a sense of contentment washing over him as he took in the sight of his friends gathered on the beach. "Agreed. Let's make the most of it, shall we?"

As they relaxed on the soft sand, the gentle lapping of the waves providing a soothing backdrop to their conversation, Natsu's grin widened at the sense of contentment that enveloped him. With his beloved wives nestled beside him and his dear friends nearby, the worries of the world seemed to fade away, if only for a moment.

"Ahhh, this is quite good, almost makes me want to completely ignore Ankhseram, Acnologia, and my brother," Natsu remarked with a hint of humor, his voice tinged with a touch of mischief.

Erza chuckled softly, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "I can't say I blame you," she replied, her tone lighthearted.

Gray asked ''Say Natsu.. have you met Zeref ever since you and Seilah arrived in this era?''

Natsu paused for a moment, his expression turning thoughtful as Gray's question prompted a shift in the conversation. "Actually, no," he admitted, his voice tinged with a hint of solemnity. "I haven't seen Zeref since Seilah and I arrived in this era. I know he is still on this planet but something definitely went wrong with him."

Natsu's response hung in the air, a palpable sense of concern settling over the group as they processed his words. Gray furrowed his brows, his expression reflecting a mix of curiosity and apprehension. "Something went wrong with him?" he echoed, his tone grave.

Natsu nodded, his gaze distant as he recalled his encounters with Zeref in the past. "Yeah," he confirmed, his voice low but steady. "Zeref's always been... complicated. It began some months before we were told we had to leave that era. Even Igneel caught on to it, right before we left he told me we might have to fight next time we meet. While I did not meet face to face, I stumbled on some of his projects and he did send an army to test me."

Erza's brows furrowed slightly, concerned flickering in her eyes. "That's troubling," she remarked, her voice carrying a note of caution.

Seilah nodded in agreement, her usually calm demeanor reflecting a sense of unease. "Indeed," she agreed, her voice soft but firm. "We cannot afford to underestimate him. He was tremendously powerful back then almost on Igneel's level , and he had 400 years , and Mundus support most likely.

Lucy's eyes widened with concern, her mind racing with the potential dangers that Zeref's increased power could pose. "So, what do we do?" she asked, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

Natsu's expression hardened with determination as he met their gazes. "We prepare," he declared, his voice resonating with resolve. "Avalon will soon contact us again. While Zeref has support from the Demon Realm, we might have support from Avalon. And if I could get in touch with Igneel, it would be even better, if he is still alive, I hope."

Erza nodded, her eyes reflecting a fierce determination as she surveyed the group gathered around her. The sun cast a warm glow over the beach, its golden rays illuminating their faces with a sense of hope amidst the uncertainty. "Agreed," she affirmed, her voice unwavering. "We'll make the most of any assistance we receive. With Avalon's help and the possibility of Igneel's support, we'll be better equipped to face whatever challenges come our way."

Seilah's expression remained composed, but the steely resolve in her gaze betrayed the gravity of the situation. "We cannot afford to falter," she stated firmly, her voice steady and determined. "Zeref definitely has an army, Natsu my love. I know you wanted to deal with Zeref and Ankhseram and the other threats alone, but you must know what something like that will do to me and Erza. We will help in whatever way we can, even if not by fighting them directly," she told Natsu, her words carrying both a plea and a promise.

Natsu's gaze softened as he took in Seilah's unwavering support, a sense of gratitude swelling within him. The weight of responsibility bore down on his shoulders, but he drew strength from the unwavering loyalty of his companions. "Oh, my dears," he replied, his voice tinged with sincerity. "You have long since shattered those ideas. I will have you alongside me in whatever way I can, forever."

Seilah's eyes sparkled with emotion as she reached out to grasp Natsu's hand, her touch a silent reassurance of their unbreakable bond. "And we will be there, my love," she affirmed, her voice filled with unwavering devotion. "No matter what challenges may come our way, we'll face them together, side by side."

Erza's expression softened, a gentle smile playing on her lips as she stood beside them, her unwavering support evident in every line of her face. "That's right," she agreed, her voice carrying the weight of their shared determination. "We will stand united, forever."

Gray's comment elicited a chuckle from Natsu, who nodded in agreement. "Yeah, let's keep things light," he said, his tone filled with warmth as he glanced around at his friends. "We've got each other's backs, no matter what."

Lucy's heart swelled with admiration as she observed the bond shared between her friends.

Erza's smile widened at their lighthearted banter, her gaze softening as she looked at each of them in turn. "Indeed," she agreed, her voice filled with affection.

The next day dawned bright and clear, promising a day filled with excitement and adventure. As they prepared to visit the casino, each member of the group carefully selected their attire, eager to make a statement as they stepped into the bustling world of glamour and gambling.

As the group prepared for their evening at the casino, Natsu decided to step up his fashion game while ensuring he was ready for anything that might come his way. He opted for a three-piece suit, tailored to perfection, with the coat extending past his knees, giving him a sleek and sophisticated appearance. The suit was crafted from high-quality material, allowing for both style and practicality, with reinforced stitching and hidden compartments designed to hold his pistols securely.

Natsu's suit consisted of a crisp white shirt, a black vest, and tailored trousers, all complemented by a black coat . The coat was adorned with subtle detailing in silver. Hidden within its folds were his trusty pistols, ready to be drawn at a moment's notice should the need arise.

Gray, inspired by Natsu's bold fashion choice, decided to put his own spin on the classic three-piece suit. His ensemble featured a sleek black suit jacket, tailored to fit his muscular frame, paired with matching trousers and a crisp white shirt. Unlike Natsu's coat, Gray's jacket was slightly shorter, falling just below his hips, giving him a more modern and streamlined look.

To add a touch of individuality to his outfit, Gray accessorized with a stylish pocket square and a sleek tie, adding a pop of color to his ensemble. Like Natsu, he too had hidden compartments sewn into his jacket, ready to conceal any weapons or tools he might need during their evening out.

Erza's choice of attire exuded sophistication and allure, befitting her status as the group's resident warrior and fashion icon. Her black cocktail dress was crafted from a luxurious fabric that hugged her curves in all the right places, accentuating her statuesque figure.

The dress featured a plunging neckline that hinted at her graceful décolletage, while the form-fitting silhouette highlighted her slender waist and toned physique. Intricate lace detailing adorned the bodice, adding a touch of elegance and femininity to the ensemble, while the skirt cascaded gracefully to the floor, creating a dramatic and alluring silhouette.

Erza paired the dress with strappy heels in a matching shade of black, elongating her legs and adding an extra dose of glamour to her look. Her accessories were understated yet stylish, consisting of delicate earrings and a statement bracelet that added a touch of sparkle to her ensemble. With her hair swept up into an elegant updo and her makeup expertly applied to enhance her natural beauty, Erza exuded confidence and grace as she made her entrance at the casino, commanding attention with every step.

Lucy, on the other hand, opted for a more playful and feminine look that reflected her bubbly personality and love for all things chic. Her lavender cocktail dress was a vision of ethereal beauty, its soft hue complementing her radiant complexion and adding a touch of whimsy to her ensemble.

The dress featured a sweetheart neckline that accentuated her delicate collarbones, while the flowing skirt swayed gracefully with every movement, creating an enchanting silhouette.

Delicate floral embroidery adorned the bodice and hemline, adding a romantic and whimsical touch to the ensemble, while the fitted waistline cinched in to showcase her slender figure.

Lucy paired the dress with dainty heels in a complementary shade of lavender, adding height and grace to her stride. Her accessories were playful yet elegant, consisting of delicate earrings and a sparkling clutch that added a hint of glamour to her look.

With her hair styled in loose waves and her makeup accentuating her natural features, Lucy looked every bit the picture of feminine charm and sophistication as she joined her friends at the casino, ready to embrace the excitement and adventure that awaited them.

Seilah, known for her timeless elegance, decided to opt for a dress that mirrored Erza's sophistication while still retaining her own unique style. She chose a stunning floor-length gown in a deep shade of midnight blue, reminiscent of the night sky, that flowed gracefully with her every movement.

The dress featured intricate lace detailing along the bodice, adding a touch of romance to the ensemble, while the flowing skirt billowed out around her legs, creating an ethereal silhouette. Seilah's slender waist was accentuated by a delicate satin ribbon, tied in a bow at the back, adding a feminine touch to the gown.

With its off-the-shoulder neckline and subtle sweetheart neckline, the dress exuded understated glamour, perfectly complementing Seilah's natural beauty. She paired the gown with matching heels, their sleek design adding height to her statuesque frame, and accessorized with a few carefully chosen pieces of jewelry, including a delicate necklace and earrings that added a touch of sparkle to her ensemble.

As she joined her friends at the casino, Seilah radiated confidence and grace, her timeless beauty capturing the attention of all who crossed her path. With her gown tailored to perfection and her accessories carefully chosen, she was ready to embrace the night ahead, confident in the knowledge that she looked every bit as stunning as her dear friend Erza.

As the group made their way to the casino, they attracted admiring glances from passersby, their impeccable attire and confident demeanor turning heads wherever they went.

Erza and Seilah each had their arms interlocked with Natsu's, their presence at his side a display of unity and unwavering support. As they walked, their steps synchronized in perfect harmony, their bond evident in the way they moved together, a united front against whatever challenges lay ahead.

Erza's grip on Natsu's arm was firm yet gentle, a silent reassurance of her steadfast loyalty and unwavering devotion. She held her head high, her gaze fixed ahead with determination, her every movement exuding confidence and grace.

Seilah, too, clung to Natsu with a quiet strength, her touch a silent declaration of her unyielding commitment and undying love. She walked with poise and elegance, her presence a beacon of calm amidst the bustling crowds, her unwavering support a source of comfort and strength to Natsu.

Natsu's long coat swayed with each step, giving him a sense of swagger as he led the way. He exuded confidence and charisma, his every movement commanding attention and respect from those around him.

Erza walked with poise and grace, her black dress flowing elegantly around her with each movement. Her heels clicked against the pavement with purpose, her demeanor commanding attention and respect as she moved alongside Natsu and Seilah.

Seilah's midnight blue gown trailed behind her like a regal train, adding an air of regal elegance to her presence. She held her head high, her confidence radiating from every pore as she walked with quiet dignity, her presence commanding respect without the need for words.

Gray followed closely behind, his own suit fitting him like a glove, the sleek lines accentuating his muscular physique. He adjusted his tie with a confident flick of his wrist, a small smirk playing on his lips as he caught sight of the envious glances directed his way.

Lucy glided beside her friends, her lavender dress billowing gently in the breeze, her laughter ringing out like music in the air. She radiated joy and vitality, her infectious energy drawing smiles from those around her as she moved with grace and poise.

Together, they made a striking impression as they entered the casino, their collective energy filling the room with an air of excitement and anticipation. With each step, they moved closer to the adventure that awaited them, ready to take on whatever challenges the night might bring.

As they navigated through the lively casino floor, the group couldn't help but be swept up in the pulsating energy of their surroundings. The clinking of chips, the whirring of slot machines, and the hum of animated chatter filled the air, creating an electrifying atmosphere that tingled with excitement.

Natsu's eyes twinkled with anticipation as he scanned the array of gaming tables spread out before them. "So, what's the plan, everyone?" he asked, a mischievous grin playing on his lips. "Blackjack? Poker? Or maybe we should try our luck at the roulette wheel?"

Erza cast a thoughtful gaze over the bustling casino floor, her mind already racing with strategies and possibilities. "I say we start with blackjack," she suggested, her voice confident and decisive. "It's a game of skill as much as luck, and I have a feeling we'll do quite well."

Seilah nodded in agreement, her expression calm and composed as she considered their options. "Agreed," she chimed in, her voice soft but resolute. "Besides, it's always more fun when there's a bit of strategy involved."

Gray's competitive spirit was already beginning to stir, his eyes gleaming with excitement at the prospect of testing his skills against the house. "Sounds good to me," he agreed, his tone brimming with confidence. "But let's make it interesting. How about a little wager to spice things up?"

Lucy couldn't help but laugh at Gray's suggestion, her eyes dancing with amusement. "Oh, I like the sound of that," she exclaimed, her voice tinged with excitement. "But let's keep it friendly, okay? No need to get too carried away on our first night out."

With their plan in place and their spirits high, the group made their way towards the nearest blackjack table, ready to dive headfirst into the thrilling world of high-stakes gambling. As they approached, the anticipation in the air was palpable, their hearts racing with excitement at the prospect of the adventure that lay ahead.

As they settled around the blackjack table, the group's excitement reached a fever pitch. Natsu, Erza, Gray, Seilah, and Lucy exchanged eager glances, each brimming with anticipation as they prepared to test their luck and skill against the dealer.

Natsu was the first to take a seat, his grin widening as he eyed the deck of cards laid out before him. "Alright, let's see what you've got," he challenged the dealer with a playful wink, his competitive spirit shining through.

Erza, seated beside Natsu, wasted no time in getting down to business. "Remember, patience is key," she reminded her companions, her voice calm but firm. "We need to play smart if we want to come out on top."

Seilah nodded in agreement, her gaze focused as she studied her cards with a keen eye. "Agreed," she echoed, her voice steady and determined. "But let's not forget to have a bit of fun along the way."

Gray, always one to embrace a challenge, leaned back in his chair with a confident smirk. "You got it," he replied, his voice brimming with bravado. "But just so we're clear, I plan on winning big tonight."

Lucy chuckled at Gray's bold declaration, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "We'll see about that," she teased, her tone playful as she prepared to join the fray. "But win or lose, let's make sure we enjoy ourselves."

With their cards dealt and their strategies in place, the group dove headfirst into the exhilarating world of blackjack, their laughter mingling with the sound of shuffling cards and spinning roulette wheels.

As Natsu got up to take a break a new dealer got to the table.

"How about we bet something else? How about we bet on death?" said the dealer.

Erza sensed the malice in the air and looked up, her gaze meeting the dealer's. Something about him seemed eerily familiar, and as he shed his disguise, her suspicions were confirmed.

"Sho? Is that you?" she asked, her voice tinged with disbelief and a hint of apprehension.

The dealer's lips curled into a sinister smirk as he confirmed his identity. "You got it, Erza," Sho replied, his voice dripping with malice. "And I'm here to settle the score once and for all."

Darkness suddenly filled the entire casino, Natsu sensing danger behind him blocked an attack that was meant to know him out ''Bad move'' he responded as he kicked the attacker away .

The attacker's eyes widened in disbelief as Natsu effortlessly thwarted his attempts, his movements swift and precise despite the darkness that surrounded them. With a frustrated growl, the attacker lunged forward once more, only to be met with a powerful strike from Natsu, sending him crashing to the ground.

"You should be blind!" the attacker exclaimed, his voice tinged with disbelief and fear.

Natsu's eyes gleamed with an otherworldly light as he stood before his fallen adversary, a smirk playing on his lips. "And you should be smarter than to attack a demon with darkness," he retorted, his voice laced with amusement.

As the darkness began to dissipate, revealing the chaos that had erupted within the casino, Natsu turned his attention back to the table where Erza and Sho faced off. The tension in the air was palpable as the two adversaries locked eyes, their gazes filled with unspoken animosity and unresolved conflict.

"Who the fuck are you?" Natsu demanded, his voice tinged with anger.

As the chaos unfolded around them, Natsu's attention was suddenly diverted by the appearance of another assailant, who emerged behind him with a gun aimed at his head and immediately shot.

,,Bark and no bite.'' said the second assailant..

Natsu's head turned towards him ''You sure?'' Natsu's hand immediately got his own pistol out and shot the second attacker in the leg.

,,AAAA'' the blocky man screamed .

,,Wally!'' scream the big man that cast the darkness spell.

The big man grabbed Wally and rushed towards Erza , who Natsu saw was caught off guard by a girl that used some type of magic that stopped her magic for some time.

As the chaos unfolded, Natsu's instincts kicked in with lightning speed. With a swift movement, he teleported to Erza's side, his presence a reassuring presence amidst the turmoil. Seilah had already taken out the mysterious girl, clearing the immediate threat to Erza.

Gray and Lucy, not ones to be left behind, had their weapons pointed at Sho's face, their expressions steely and determined. Sho, caught off guard by the sudden turn of events, found himself staring down the barrels of their weapons, his bravado crumbling in the face of their unwavering resolve.

,,You have 10 seconds to tell me who you are and who you work for ! ''said Natsu as he backhanded the big man who tried to sneak attack him.

,,SIMON !'' scream Sho.

Natsu grabbed the now named Simon by his neck and put his pistol to his forehead ''I'll start with him. Who do you work for and what do you want with my wife? Any answers I don't like will result in your painful deaths!'' said Natsu with a demonic voice.

,,Natsu wait! I know them !'' said Erza trying to calm Natsu down , ''They were in the tower ,Natsu , they don't know what happened!'' she told him calmly as she took his face in her hands.

,,So blueberry decided he wants to die, did he ?'' responded Natsu.

Simon, his face contorted in fear, stammered out an explanation. "We... we were just following orders," he managed to choke out, his voice trembling with fear. "We were told to capture Erza and bring her to... to him."

Natsu's grip on Simon tightened, his expression darkening. "Him? Who is 'him'?" he demanded, his voice low and dangerous.

Sho, realizing the gravity of the situation, spoke up in a shaky voice. "It's... it's Jellal,"

Natsu's eyes narrowed at the mention of Jellal's name, a mix of anger and amusement flashing in his gaze. ''So he is stupid enough to actually try this.''said Natsu as he laughs a bit ''Fine then, time to put this mutt back in its place.''

Sho spoke up again''You think you can defeat Jellal? You're nothing to-'' he was not able to finish as Gray decked him with his revolver .

,,Dude, shut up and you may live.'' Gary told him lazaly .

Erza stepped towards them ''you have to kno-''

''Shut up you traitor!'' scream Sho ''I'll hear nothing of your lies!''

As the lacrima shattered on the ground, the world around them twisted and shifted, the familiar surroundings of the casino giving way to the cold, damp interior of a ship. Erza found herself surrounded by her captors, the sense of betrayal weighing heavily on her heart.

As the group stood amidst the chaos of the casino, Natsu's anger radiated like a palpable force, his silver eyes blazing with an intensity that bordered on madness. "I'M GONNA KILL EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU!" he roared, his voice sending shockwaves through the room, causing glass to shatter and the ground to tremble beneath their feet.

Seilah's fury matched Natsu's as she unleashed her own power, her punch shattering a nearby pillar into rubble. "They will pay for this greatly," she declared, her voice filled with a simmering rage that threatened to boil over at any moment.

Gray, his resolve unwavering, stepped forward with determination. "We can't let them get away with this," he stated firmly, his voice cutting through the chaos. "We have to find a way to rescue Erza before it's too late."

Seilah, ever the voice of reason, stepped forward with a plan. "I spoke with Erza through telepathy," she revealed. "She said to follow but let them lead us to the tower."

Natsu, still seething with rage, nodded in agreement. "Fine, let's go," he growled, his power emanating from him in waves as he enveloped them all in a tornado of black feathers, ready to embark on their rescue mission.

Meanwhile, Erza found herself isolated and alone, her aura radiating a potent mix of anger and determination that kept anyone from approaching her. The dragon mark on her skin pulsed with energy, channeling Natsu's and Seilah's rage as she awaited her chance to strike back against her captors.

As Erza was escorted to the Tower of Heaven, her resolve remained unshaken, her spirit unyielding in the face of adversity. Upon their arrival, she wasted no time in confronting her captors, her sword flashing with deadly precision as she swiftly defeated each one of them, leaving only Simon standing.

Simon, now backed into a corner, revealed the truth he had been hiding. "I know what happened," he confessed, his voice trembling with fear and regret. "I wanted someone strong enough to defeat Jellal, and I thought... I thought you could be that person."

Erza's expression softened as she listened to Simon's confession, her heart heavy with empathy for the man before her. Despite his betrayal, she could see the pain and remorse in his eyes, and she knew that he had acted out of desperation rather than malice.

With a sigh, Erza lowered her sword, her gaze steady as she addressed Simon. "You could have talked at the casino, you've made my husband very angry"

Simon flinched at Erza's words, the weight of his actions weighing heavily on his conscience. "I... I know," he stammered, his voice filled with regret. "I should have spoken up sooner, but I was afraid... afraid of what Jellal might do if he found out."

''The only thing Jellal will do is beg for his pathetic life.'' said Natsu as he and the rest emerged from a tornado of black feathers.

Natsu's voice cut through the tension, his presence commanding attention as he emerged from the swirling vortex of black feathers alongside the rest of the group. His eyes blazed with determination, his aura radiating power and rage.

"You should be more afraid of what I'll do," Natsu continued, his voice low and dangerous. "Jellal made a big mistake crossing us, and now he's going to pay for it."

Simon's eyes widened in fear at the sight of Natsu, his resolve crumbling under the intensity of Silver-Eye gaze. He took a step back, his breath coming in short, ragged gasps as he realized the full extent of his folly.

Erza stepped forward, her gaze unwavering as she addressed Simon once more. "It's not too late to make things right," she said, her voice firm but gentle. "Help us stop Jellal, and together we can put an end to his tyranny once and for all."

Simon nodded, his expression filled with a mixture of fear and determination. "I'll do whatever it takes," he said, his voice trembling but resolute. "I owe you that much."

Gray in his battle attire loaded his BlueMoon and checked his swords on his back ''Well there goes our vacation , at least this Jellal better make this fun.''

Lucy in her own battle attire checked her quiver and sword, her form-fitting black bodysuit suit ready for battle under her cloak ''He better i was about to win the whole DAMN pot of money!'' said Lucy angered.

Seilah rushes towards Erza and envelopes her in a hug ''Oh dear we were so worried !'' she said,Seilah too was in her battle attire.

Seilah's attire is tailored to accentuate her hourglass figure, enhancing her commanding presence on the battlefield. The fitted battle dress, crafted from supple black leather, molds to the curves of her body, highlighting her ample bosom and slender waist. Intricate silver runes are etched into the leather, their sinuous lines weaving around her curves like dark tendrils of power, emphasizing her mastery of darkness magic and rune magic.

The dress features strategic panels of reinforced leather at key points, providing both protection and flexibility while maintaining the allure of her figure. Silver chains adorned with sinister charms and sigils drape across her chest, drawing attention to her ample cleavage and adding to the air of mystique that surrounds her.

Seilah's accessories are designed to complement her voluptuous form, enhancing her dark allure and amplifying her magical abilities. A silver amulet hangs between her breasts, its black gemstone pulsating with eldritch energy, serving as a focal point for her most potent spells. Leather bracers encircle her wrists, their intricate patterns accentuating the curves of her arms while providing additional protection and magical enhancement.

Her boots, crafted from sleek black leather, hug her shapely calves and accentuate the curves of her legs. Silver buckles adorned with arcane symbols add a touch of elegance to her ensemble, while enchanted soles ensure that she moves with grace and precision on the battlefield.

Natsu's magic surged, changing his appearance into his battle attire .

Natsu's vibrant pink-salmon hair falls in untamed waves around his face and shoulders, contrasting starkly with the darkness of his attire. His piercing silver eyes hold a sharp intensity, reflecting both his determination and the depths of his power.

Clad in a long, flowing black coat crafted from durable leather, Natsu cuts a striking figure. The coat, tailored to fit his muscular frame with meticulous precision, exudes an air of sophistication and power. Predominantly black, it is adorned with subtle yet striking silver trimmings along the seams and cuffs, adding a touch of elegance to his ensemble. Intricate demonic runes are etched into the collar, shimmering with an otherworldly energy that hints at the dark forces coursing through his veins.

Beneath the coat, Natsu wears a fitted black shirt, its fabric soft against his skin as he moves. The shirt hugs his muscular torso snugly, accentuating his physique while allowing for ease of movement in battle. Etched into the fabric are faint traces of arcane symbols, pulsating with a dim glow that speaks to the dark powers Natsu commands. His forearms, unprotected, proudly display his demonic tattoos.

For trousers, Natsu opts for comfortable yet durable black cargo pants, providing ample storage for his various tools and weapons. The pants are reinforced at the knees and seat, offering added protection during combat without sacrificing flexibility. Silver buckles adorn the pockets, each engraved with arcane sigils that serve as conduits for Natsu's magical energies.

His knee-high boots, jet black with silver accents, are crafted from the finest leather, their soles reinforced with metal plating for added durability and traction. Intricate patterns are etched into the leather, reminiscent of ancient runes that resonate with dark energy.

Natsu wears fingerless gloves, providing him with a firm grip on his weapons while allowing for dexterity in spellcasting.

Holstered securely at his hips are two pistols, Scarlet Whisper and Midnight Shadow, ready to be drawn at a moment's notice.

Strapped high enough on his back to avoid hindrance but low enough for quick access, Yamato rests, its hilt positioned to be drawn from Natsu's left side.

Close to his shoulder blade on his back, The Rebellion stands proudly, its massive double-edged blade poised for destruction.

With his formidable arsenal and imposing presence, Natsu is a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield, wielding both martial skill and dark magic with unparalleled mastery.

"Let's put the mutt in its place," said Natsu with a steely gaze, referring to Jellal.

Suddenly, a voice resonated throughout the room, its tone echoing with an air of anticipation. "Welcome! You got here sooner than expected, Silver-Eye. How about we play a game? The rules-" Jellal's words were cut short by Seilah's interruption.

"Oh, shut up already," Seilah interjected impatiently. "We know about the Resurrection System, the requirement of raw magic power, a sacrifice, and 'Zeref's' supposed 'resurrection.' That's about it, mutt."

Jellal's voice echoed through the chamber, his tone dripping with arrogance and malice as he addressed the group. "Well, well, it seems you've done your homework," he remarked, a hint of amusement lacing his words. "But knowing the rules won't save you from what's to come."

Natsu's laughter filled the room, sending shivers down Jellal's spine. "Oh, I'm going to enjoy seeing how you'll have everything you believe in destroyed. Your despair will be a delectable snack," Natsu's voice carried a sinister edge, his demonic instinct slipping through his words.

"Do you truly believe you can stop me?" Jellal taunted, his voice thick with contempt. "You're nothing but insects compared to my power."

Natsu's smirk widened, his eyes gleaming with defiance. "Like I told 'Siegrain' before, you will find I am much closer to your idol than you are, mutt," he declared boldly.

Jellal gritted his teeth, his mind replaying the memory of their previous encounter. He vividly recalled the sensation of Natsu's presence, as if the fiery warrior stood before him, despite being hundreds of miles away.

"Fine then, let's see who will come out the winner, Silver-Eye!" Jellal declared as he abruptly stopped the transmission.

Pacing around the room, Jellal began muttering to himself, his thoughts consumed by strategy. "I have to separate them, make sure Etherion hits sooner, and get back the rest of my power," he muttered under his breath, his words reflecting his intense focus and determination.

With Ultear

Meanwhile, Ultear kept a vigilant watch over Jellal's mind, ensuring that he followed through with his plans. Silver-Eye's presence was anticipated with Jellal's chosen sacrifice; failure was not an option. Even if Jellal faltered, Grimoire Heart would obtain the key they needed.

"Well, this may be entertaining," Ultear thought to herself, observing as 'Siegrain' attempted to sway the council into launching Etherion on the tower. The intricate web of alliances and schemes was unfolding before her eyes, promising both intrigue and danger.

Back at the tower

Back at the tower, the Sovereign Vanguard ascended slowly, their footsteps echoing through the dimly lit corridors as they discussed the looming threat.

Lucy turned to Seilah, her expression tinged with concern. "You mentioned the tower requires a substantial amount of magic power to activate. How much exactly?" she inquired, her voice carrying a note of urgency.

Seilah's gaze sharpened as she considered Lucy's question. "Much more than a human can normally support," she explained, her tone grave. "Much, much more than Jellal possesses. He most likely intends to utilize 'Siegrain' to convince the fools from the council to launch Etherion on the tower."

Gray's eyes widened in disbelief at Seilah's revelation. "Etherion? The Etherion? The weapon capable of destroying entire countries?" he exclaimed, his voice edged with incredulity and dread.

Natsu snorted derisively, his skepticism evident. "I still have no idea who gave such a weapon to those fools," he remarked,

As they ascended the tower, their thoughts consumed by the impending danger, the Sovereign Vanguard was suddenly confronted by a tall man with long black hair, pale skin, and dark makeup accentuating his features. Clad in light armor, he exuded an aura of menace, resembling a figure straight out of a metal concert.

Lucy's grip tightened around her bow as she stepped forward, her determination unwavering despite the threatening figure before them.

"Go on ahead," Lucy instructed her comrades, her voice steady with resolve. "I'll handle this."

With a shared glance of understanding, the rest of the group continued their ascent, leaving Lucy to confront the looming menace alone.

Vidaldus grinned wickedly, his eyes alight with anticipation as he prepared to face off against the lone mage. "You think you can take me all by yourself, little girl?" he taunted, his voice dripping with arrogance.

Lucy met his gaze without flinching, her own eyes filled with determination. "I may be alone, but I am far from defenseless," she retorted, her voice echoing with confidence.

"And I really want to punch something... If it wasn't for this fluke, I would have won the whole damn pot of money!" she added comically, her frustration evident.

The air crackled with tension as Lucy and Vidaldus squared off, their magic clashing in a dazzling display of light and sound.

Vidaldus summoned a guitar and began to play, the chords creating powerful attacks from the sound waves.

Lucy barely dodged, her ears ringing from the onslaught. "Really? Sound magic? What's next, hair magic?" she quipped ironically, taking note of Vidaldus's appearance.

She was nearly struck by a whip of hair right after her comment, prompting Lucy to mutter to herself, "Oh, I'm gonna break that guitar over your head and set your hair on fire!"

Quickly teleporting to a safe distance, Lucy unleashed a barrage of arrows towards Vidaldus, who deflected them effortlessly with a wave of sound.

"YOU'LL HAVE TO DO MUCH BETTER THAN THAT!" Vidaldus shouted crazily.

Lucy, undeterred by his taunts, responded calmly, "Oh, I will."

As Lucy summoned her celestial spirits, a brief exchange of words passed between her and her ethereal allies, their voices echoing with determination and camaraderie.

Aquarius emerged first, her form shimmering as she greeted Lucy with a nod. "Ready to make a splash, Lucy?" she quipped, a hint of mischief in her voice.

"Always," Lucy replied with a grin, her confidence bolstered by Aquarius's presence. "Let's show him the power of the seas."

Vidaldus, lost in his own world of music, seemed oblivious to the impending battle until he suddenly unleashed a powerful sound wave toward them.

Leo, ever the protector, flashed in front of the attack, his golden mane ablaze as he deflected the wave with some difficulty.

"Hah, this may take a while," Leo remarked, his voice filled with determination as he braced himself for the coming onslaught.

As Leo and Aquarius engaged Vidaldus in close combat, their coordinated attacks proved to be a formidable challenge for their adversary. Leo's movements were fluid and precise, his claws slashing through the air with deadly accuracy as he unleashed the power of his light magic against Vidaldus. Meanwhile, Aquarius stood back, her mastery over water magic evident as she conjured torrents of water that crashed against Vidaldus's defenses, creating openings for Leo to exploit.

Despite their combined efforts, Vidaldus proved to be a skilled opponent, dodging Leo's strikes with agility and deflecting Aquarius's water attacks with ease. However, his focus on the two celestial spirits left him vulnerable to Lucy's impending spell.

Farther back, Lucy stood with her bow drawn, channeling her magic into it as a magic circle manifested in front of her. With Leo and Aquarius distracting Vidaldus, Lucy seized the opportunity to unleash her most powerful spell yet.

As Vidaldus taunted her, creating a sound barrier to defend against her arrows, Lucy's eyes glowed with determination as she finished preparing her spell. With a resolute cry, she unleashed the full force of her magic.

"Astral Fury!"

With a blinding flash of light, Lucy's arrow surged forward, imbued with the combined power of space and light magic. In an instant, it crossed the distance between them, piercing through Vidaldus's sound barrier with ease. The arrow struck true, emerging from his back with unstoppable force, shattering his defenses and leaving him staggered in disbelief.

Caught off guard by the sudden turn of events, Vidaldus stumbled backward, his expression twisted in shock and pain, Vidaldus fell on the ground defeated.

,,Well… this was fast'' said Lucy.

With the others

As the rest of the group continued their ascent, they eventually arrived at a room filled with towering bird cages, their ominous presence casting a shadow over the surroundings.

"We're gonna be stopped by a bird man thing, aren't we?" Gray remarked, his tone tinged with resignation as he surveyed the scene before them.

Moments later, their suspicions were confirmed as a figure emerged from the shadows, its avian features unmistakable as it proudly proclaimed itself as a member of some assassination group.

Natsu, his eyes never leaving the bird-like creature, leaned towards Gray with a smirk. "You jinxed us, so you will fight it," he declared, a mischievous glint in his eyes as he passed the responsibility onto his comrade.

As Natsu and the rest left , Gray was still standing in front of the talking giant bird thing,''Fuuuuuuck'' exclaimed Gray exasperated.

With Seilah

The trio moved in silence towards the next room, the tension palpable in the air as they navigated the corridors of the tower.

"He deserves it," Natsu suddenly remarked out of nowhere, his tone carrying a hint of satisfaction.

Seilah nodded in agreement. "Yes, yes he did," she replied, her voice low and filled with a sense of finality.

They reached the door to the next room, its Japanese-style design hinting at what awaited them inside.

"Swordmaster," Seilah guessed, her eyes scanning the room for any signs of danger.

"If you're correct, you're staying," Erza stated firmly, her gaze fixed on Seilah as she awaited her response.

Before Erza could finish her sentence, a pink-haired woman dressed in a kimono wielding a giant katana suddenly appeared on top of a structure within the room, her presence commanding attention.

Erza leaned towards Seilah, her curiosity evident. "So—"

"Go," Seilah interrupted her with a deadpan stare, knowing full well what was expected of her.

As Natsu and Erza left the room, Seilah stepped forward to approach the mysterious woman, her expression unreadable as she addressed her directly.

"Your name?" Seilah inquired, her voice calm but authoritative.

The woman chuckled softly, a playful glint in her eyes as she covered her mouth with her hand in amusement. "Oh dear, straight to the point then?" she remarked coyly, her demeanor relaxed yet tinged with a hint of mischief.

Ikagura's laughter echoed softly in the room, her amusement evident as she regarded Seilah with a playful gleam in her eyes.

"Very well, since you've asked so politely," she replied, her tone light and teasing. "My name is Ikagura. And may I inquire as to yours?"

Seilah maintained her composed demeanor, her gaze steady as she responded, "Seilah."

Ikagura's smile widened, a flicker of recognition crossing her features. "Ah, Seilah," she repeated, as if testing the name on her tongue. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance."

Seilah inclined her head slightly in acknowledgment, her stance relaxed but poised for any sudden movements. "Likewise," she replied evenly, her tone neutral yet tinged with a hint of wariness.

As the two women faced each other, a silent understanding passed between them, each sizing up the other with a mixture of curiosity and caution.

A slash attack flashed towards Seilah as she summoned her naginata and defended herself with ease.

Seilah's naginata, known as Voidreaper, is a weapon of unparalleled elegance and lethality. Fashioned from blackened steel, its sleek blade gleams with an otherworldly sheen, while arcane engravings along its length resonate with dark energy. At the tip, a razor-sharp crescent blade curves menacingly, ready to cleave through reality itself with each swing. The haft is adorned with silver runes that pulse with eldritch power.

As Seilah and Ikagura clashed in the room filled with tension, Seilah's movements were a testament to her skill and precision. With Voidreaper in hand, she moved with the fluid grace of a seasoned warrior, her every motion calculated and deliberate.

When Ikagura launched her first magical slash attack, Seilah's reaction was swift and sure. With a deft flick of her wrist, she parried the blow with Voidreaper, the blade of her naginata singing through the air as it intercepted the oncoming strike. The force of the impact sent ripples of energy reverberating through the room, but Seilah remained steadfast, her stance unwavering as she absorbed the brunt of the attack.

In response, Seilah countered with a series of quick slashes of her own, each strike imbued with magical energy that crackled along the length of her naginata. With precise movements, she aimed for the gaps in Ikagura's defenses, seeking to exploit any openings and gain the upper hand in their duel.

Ikagura, though skilled in her own right, found herself hard-pressed to keep up with Seilah's relentless assault. As Seilah pressed the attack, Ikagura was forced to focus all her energy on defense, her movements becoming increasingly defensive as she struggled to keep pace with her opponent.

With each clash of their weapons, Seilah pressed her advantage, her attacks growing more aggressive as she sought to wear down Ikagura's defenses. She anticipated Ikagura's moves with uncanny accuracy, her keen instincts allowing her to predict her opponent's next move and react accordingly.

In the midst of their intense exchange, a brief exchange of words passed between the combatants.

"You fight well," Ikagura remarked, her voice tinged with admiration as she parried one of Seilah's strikes.

"As do you," Seilah replied, her tone calm and composed despite the intensity of their battle. "But I will not falter until I emerge victorious."

With a nod of understanding, Ikagura tightened her grip on her katana, her determination matching Seilah's resolve.

Their duel intensified as they exchanged blows with increasing speed and ferocity. Seilah's strikes were precise and calculated, each swing of her naginata aimed at testing Ikagura's defenses and finding a weakness to exploit. In response, Ikagura moved with fluid grace, her movements elegant yet deadly as she parried Seilah's attacks with skillful precision.

Magical energy crackled in the air with each clash of their weapons, illuminating the room with bursts of light and shadow. Seilah's proficiency with Voidreaper allowed her to weave intricate patterns of magic into her strikes, each slash carrying the weight of her determination to emerge victorious.

As their duel raged on, Seilah began to gain the upper hand. Her relentless assault forced Ikagura onto the defensive, her movements becoming more desperate as she struggled to keep pace with Seilah's onslaught. With each passing moment, Seilah pressed her advantage, her attacks growing more ferocious as she sought to break through Ikagura's defenses.

Sensing an opportunity, Seilah launched a flurry of strikes, her naginata blurring with speed as she unleashed a barrage of magical slashes aimed directly at Ikagura's position. With a swift motion, Ikagura dodged to the side, narrowly avoiding the brunt of Seilah's assault.

But Seilah was relentless. With a determined glint in her eyes, she pressed forward, her naginata whirling through the air as she continued to drive Ikagura back. With each strike, she forced Ikagura to retreat further, her movements becoming more erratic as she struggled to keep pace with Seilah's relentless onslaught.

Finally, with a swift and decisive blow, Seilah managed to break through Ikagura's defenses, her naginata finding its mark and striking true. With a gasp of surprise, Ikagura stumbled backward, her katana falling from her grasp as she collapsed to the ground, defeated.

Seilah stood over Ikagura, her naginata poised at the defeated warrior's neck, the weight of her victory palpable in the air. For a moment, she gazed into Ikagura's eyes, her expression unreadable as she contemplated her next move.

Then, unexpectedly, Seilah lowered her weapon and turned away, her decision made. Without a word, she began to walk back the way she came, leaving Ikagura stunned and bewildered in her wake.

"Why do you spare me?" Ikagura managed to ask, her voice tinged with both confusion and gratitude as she struggled to sit up.

Seilah paused for a moment, her back still turned to Ikagura. "Why should I kill you?" she replied, her tone enigmatic. "Perhaps there is more to your story than meets the eye."

"I lost," Ikagura admitted, her voice barely above a whisper as she struggled to find her bearings.

Seilah turned slightly, her gaze piercing as she regarded Ikagura. "Maybe... but is that the end for you?" she mused, her words laden with meaning.

"It normally is," Ikagura replied, her tone resigned as she contemplated her uncertain future.

"Well, you are alive," Seilah declared, her voice firm. "Make of that whatever you please. Just know that I do not offer the same chance a second time, so you better not come after me or my family."

With those words hanging in the air, Seilah disappeared from view, leaving Ikagura alone to ponder her fate. Slowly, Ikagura gathered herself and made her way out of the room, her mind filled with uncertainty but also the possibility of a new beginning.

As she stepped out into the corridor, she knew that her journey was far from over. Perhaps she would be seen again, her path intersecting with Seilah's once more. But for now, she would focus on finding her own way in a world filled with endless possibilities.

With Natsu and Erza

"Do you want to fight him yourself?" Natsu asked, his voice tinged with eagerness for battle.

Erza turned to face him, her expression resolute. "I want you with me," she replied simply, her confidence unwavering.

"Let's go then," Natsu said with a grin, his fiery spirit undiminished as they prepared to face their adversary.

Together, they exploded through the door, bursting into the room where Jellal awaited them, his smirk betraying his confidence.

"Finally, I was beginning to think you got scared," Jellal taunted, his words dripping with arrogance as he attempted to goad them.

Erza scoffed at his feeble attempt to unsettle them. "You had so much time to think about what to say... and that is the best you can do? So unoriginal," she retorted, her voice laced with mockery as she dismissed his taunts with ease.

Natsu chuckled, his Silver eyes glowing as he stepped forward, "Looks like you've been waiting for us," he remarked, his voice laced with amusement. "Well, here we are, mortal "

,,And there it is … your legendary god-complex .'' Jellal said amused.

Natsu laughed as he took a seat "HA i argue its a … Demon King - Complex or a Dragons, but I guess calling me a god is not that far away .'' he said amused.

Jellal's lips curled into a smirk as he observed Natsu's response, his amusement evident. "A Demon King-Complex or a Dragons, you say?" he mused, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "How quaint. But let's not get ahead of ourselves, shall we?"

Natsu leaned back casually in his seat, his laughter still echoing in the room. "Who needs titles when you've got power?" he retorted, his eyes glinting mischievously. "But enough banter. Let's see if you can handle what I've got in store for you."

Erza watched the exchange with a raised eyebrow, her gaze shifting between Natsu and Jellal. "Are we going to fight or exchange insults all day?" she interjected, her tone tinged with impatience.

,,Oh love you know how much I love trash talk … i got it from my brother actually '' responded Natsu winking at Erza.

Jellal chuckled softly at Natsu's remark, his amusement evident as he leaned back in his throne. "Ah, sibling influence. Always a powerful force," he remarked, his tone laced with sarcasm. "But let's not waste any more time. Shall we begin?"

Erza rolled her eyes at their banter, a small smirk playing on her lips. "Fine by me," she replied, her voice steady and resolute. "Let's settle this once and for all."

Erza summoned her Aurora armor , slightly updated.

Erza's battle attire has evolved into a sleek and formidable ensemble, tailored to both accentuate her figure and enhance her combat prowess. The Aurora Empress Armor now fits her slender, voluptuous frame with precision, sculpted to provide maximum mobility without compromising on protection.

The form-fitting dress retains its celestial elegance, crafted from enchanted fabrics and reinforced with dragon scales to offer unparalleled resilience in battle. The white and gold color scheme remains, but with subtle enhancements that add depth and sophistication. Intricate patterns of swirling runes adorn the surface of the armor, shimmering with magical energy as they weave intricate spells of protection and power.

The dress hugs Erza's curves in all the right places, accentuating her feminine physique while allowing for fluid movement in combat. Strategic cutouts and panels of reinforced plating provide both ventilation and protection, ensuring that she remains agile and comfortable even in the heat of battle.

The shoulder pieces have been redesigned to offer increased defense without impeding Erza's range of motion. Sleek and streamlined, they fit snugly against her shoulders, adorned with delicate engravings and shimmering gemstones that catch the light with every movement.

The gauntlets have been upgraded with advanced magical enhancements, their sleek design offering both agility and precision in combat. Etched with intricate patterns and sigils, they channel Erza's magical energy with unparalleled efficiency, allowing her to unleash devastating attacks with pinpoint accuracy.

As for her greaves, they complement the sleek design of her armor while offering additional protection to her lower legs. Crafted from enchanted materials and reinforced with dragon scales, they provide both durability and flexibility, allowing Erza to move with agility and grace in the heat of battle.

The wings remain a focal point of Erza's armor, symbolizing her connection to her Sage Dragon heritage and her mastery of dragon magic. Manifesting as physical, white-feathered appendages, they exude an aura of power and grace, serving as both a defensive barrier and a formidable weapon in combat.

Erza's fiery crimson hair, styled in a practical ponytail with bangs framing her determined face, caught Natsu's attention. He couldn't help but whistle appreciatively from behind her, his usual mischievous grin plastered on his face.

"Love, we gotta us–" Natsu began, his tone suggestive, but before he could finish his lewd comment, Erza cut him off with a hiss of disapproval.

"Natsu, this is not the time to perv around!" she whispered sharply, her voice laced with irritation as she shot him a warning glance. "I will think about it."

Natsu's grin faltered slightly under Erza's glare, but he couldn't help but chuckle at her response. "Alright, alright, I'll behave... for now," he replied teasingly, knowing full well that pushing Erza's buttons was one of his favorite pastimes.

Jellal watched the exchange between the two with amusement, a small smirk playing on his lips. "You two never cease to entertain," he remarked dryly, though there was a hint of fondness in his tone as he observed their dynamic.

Erza shot Natsu one final glare before turning her attention back to the task at hand, her resolve stronger than ever as she prepared to face the challenge lay ahead.

With Ultear

As Ultear and Siegrain manipulated the council into activating Etherion with their fabricated story about Zeref's resurrection, Ultear couldn't help but sneer at the council's ignorance and gullibility. "These fools, no wonder Silver-Eye barely tolerates them," she muttered under her breath, her disdain for the council evident in her tone.

The council's eagerness to drop Etherion upon hearing that Silver-Eye was in the tower only fueled Ultear's frustration. It seemed they were more concerned with getting rid of Silver-Eye than stopping the supposed resurrection of the Black Wizard. It was a testament to their shortsightedness and incompetence, in Ultear's eyes.

Working undercover with Siegrain, Ultear relished the opportunity to pull the strings behind the scenes. While Siegrain may have been the face of their operation, it was Ultear who wielded the true power, orchestrating their schemes with precision and cunning.

Back at the tower

As Jellal picked himself up from the floor, his mind reeling with disbelief, he couldn't shake the bewildered thought that had crossed his mind: "She's... she's stronger than me?" The realization was a stark and unexpected revelation, one that he had never entertained before.

For Jellal, who had always prided himself on his strength and prowess as a mage, the idea that someone could surpass him in combat was almost inconceivable. He had always assumed that Silver-Eye, at best, might be on par with him when he had his full power. But for Erza to effortlessly overpower him, even without him having his full power, was a humbling and unsettling realization.

Despite his status as one of the most formidable mages in Ishgar, Jellal couldn't deny the undeniable truth before him: Erza was a force to be reckoned with, her strength and skill surpassing even his own. It was a sobering realization, one that would undoubtedly reshape his perceptions and strategies moving forward in their ongoing conflict.

Erza's sudden appearance in front of Jellal, her grip firm around his neck and Dragon Edge poised in her right hand, sent a shiver of fear down his spine. Her words cut through the air like a blade, her disappointment palpable as she questioned his abilities and his legitimacy as a Wizard Saint.

"How disappointing... is this the best you can do? How exactly did you get made into a Wizard Saint?" Erza's voice was laced with disdain, her gaze piercing as she awaited his response.

Jellal's eyes widened in shock and realization as he felt the pressure of Erza's grip tightening around his neck. They knew, they had seen through Siegrain's facade, through his carefully constructed deception. Panic threatened to consume him as he struggled to find his voice amidst Erza's relentless interrogation.

"H-how did you know?" he managed to choke out, the words strained as Erza's hold on his neck made it difficult to breathe, let alone speak.

Natsu's scoff from his seat only added to Jellal's humiliation. "Oh please, as if a thought projection could fool me," he remarked dismissively, his confidence unwavering even in the face of Erza's wrath.

Jellal managed to crack a smile '' It changes nothing'' he said.

Erza's patience wore thin. She dropped him to the ground and delivered a swift kick, sending him skidding across the room. "Explain yourself!" she demanded, her voice sharp with anger.

But Jellal's laughter only seemed to grow as he addressed Natsu. "You know... you are right about them... a bunch of idiots... all of them," he admitted with a hint of amusement.

Natsu's eyes widened for a bit only to go back to his smirk ''Ah, I see... you actually managed to trick those fools into dropping Etherion. I underestimated their stupidity," he remarked, his eyes gleaming with amusement.

Jellal continued to laugh as he confirmed Natsu's suspicions. "Yes, yes you did. They were more happy to get rid of you than to stop Zeref from resurrecting," he explained, finding humor in the council's shortsightedness.

But Natsu wasn't about to let Jellal off the hook that easily. "Still going with resurrecting Zeref? You're a really shitty Zeref worshiper, you know?" he taunted, his tone mocking.

Suddenly, Jellal's demeanor shifted, his voice rising to a crazed pitch ''WATCH YOUR MOUTH ! I AM ZEREF'S CHOSEN! HIS INSTRUMENT TO RETURN TO LIFE !'' he said crazily .

Natsu and Erza exchanged suspicious glances, but Natsu's eyes briefly glowed as he chuckled, realizing what had just happened. "Tsk, tsk, tsk, what a sneaky tactic, Miss," he remarked.

With Ultear

As Ultear watched the scene unfold through Jellal's eyes, her panic intensified. She had been discovered, her cover blown in a way she had never anticipated. "He saw me?" she whispered, her voice trembling with fear as she realized the gravity of the situation.

Back at Grimoire Heart, Hades and the rest of the Seven Kin watched the magical screen intently, their expressions a mix of surprise and concern. Hades's calm demeanor belied the unease stirring within him as he commented on Natsu's revelation. "It seems Silver-Eye is more than just a... wild brat," he remarked, his voice betraying a hint of apprehension.

As Natsu's voice echoed through the guild hall once more, carrying with it an eerie wind, Hades's curiosity was piqued. "Well, of course I am, pretender," Natsu declared, his words cutting through the air with an unsettling certainty.

Hades's eyes widened at the revelation, but he remained composed, his mind racing with possibilities. This Silver-Eye was more than he had initially assumed, and the implications of his true identity sent a chill down Hades's spine. "Show me... show me who you are, Silver-Eye," he demanded, his voice echoing with authority as he sought to uncover the secrets hidden beneath the surface.

Back at the tower

As the tower trembled with the approaching Etherion, Natsu couldn't resist a chuckle at Hades's expense. "Well, careful not to have a heart attack, pretender," he taunted, his smirk widening as the tension in the room continued to escalate.

Meanwhile, on the shore of the island, Lucy, Seilah, and Gray watched in astonishment as Etherion loomed ominously in the distance. "Is... is that Etherion?" Lucy asked, her voice tinged with disbelief.

Seilah's expression hardened as she confirmed Lucy's suspicions. "Those fools actually activated it," she remarked bitterly, her gaze fixed on the towering structure as it cast a dark shadow over the island.

Before Seilah could say anything else, a mental message suddenly cut through her thoughts. "We are leaving. Natsu and Erza got this," she relayed to Lucy and Gray, her tone resolute.

Simon, who had been listening intently, voiced his concern. "Are you sure? Jellal was made into a Wizard Saint as Siegrain," he pointed out, his brow furrowed with worry.

Gray's eyes widened in realization. "Siegrain and Jellal are the same person?" he exclaimed, surprised by the revelation.

Seilah nodded grimly. "Yes, a thought projection. And yes, Erza and Natsu got this," she affirmed, her confidence unwavering as she prepared to depart from the island.

Back with Natsu

As Natsu appeared behind Erza, his six black wings unfurled with a powerful aura, casting a shadow over the room. Without uttering a single word, Erza understood his unspoken intent and responded in kind, summoning her own wings to envelop herself in a protective barrier.

As Erza's wings surrounded her, Natsu moved closer, wrapping his powerful wings around her once more.

As Etherion bore down upon them with unstoppable force, the tower shook violently, the air crackling with electrifying energy. Natsu and Erza braced themselves against the impact, their intertwined wings serving as a barrier against the devastating power of the magical beam.

Instead of exploding upon impact, the beam began to be absorbed into the tower itself. As the energy dissipated, a massive lacrima remained in its wake, containing the raw power of Etherion.

Jellal's laughter cut through the silence, echoing with triumph as he reveled in his apparent victory.

As they separated their wings, Jellal's confidence only seemed to grow. "It worked perfectly!" he declared triumphantly, his voice ringing with certainty.

Natsu couldn't help but chuckle in amusement at Jellal's arrogance. "Ha, you haven't won yet," he retorted, his tone laced with confidence.

But Jellal's smile widened as he revealed his next move. "Oh, but it's not much longer until I do,"suddenly, his thought projection, Siegrain, appeared beside him.

,,You already know, so my dramatic reveal is out sadly.'' said Jellal as He fused with his thought projection , his magic power having skyrocketed.

Natsu's smile remained unfazed as he realized Jellal's strategy. "Ah, so that's why you were weak. You put most of your power into the thought projection," he observed casually.

Jellal pondered his next move, contemplating the fate of Natsu and Erza. "Now I will destroy you, and use Erza to resurrect Zeref... or I will kill her and use you," he mused aloud, his voice dripping with malice.

But Natsu remained unperturbed by Jellal's threats. "Ha, you may be more powerful than before... but you're still far from being on my level, human," he declared confidently.

,,Arrogant fool, I was made the 5th Wizard Saint without even my full power! Your ego knows no bounds," Jellal shot back, his voice dripping with disdain.

But Natsu remained unfazed, his confidence unwavering. "It's not ego... it's a fact," he countered calmly, his fiery gaze locked with Jellal's. "I am simply beyond what mere mortals can achieve with their power.''

Jellal Fernandes -Full Power-Power Level - 460.000

,,He is stronger than Erza is with the Dragon Force, close to Seilah.'' Natsu thought.

As Jellal Fernandes unleashed his full power, he was surrounded by a radiant golden light, Natsu assessed the situation.

,,Heavenly Body Magic? Ha for a mongrel you have a very interesting type of magic!'' Natsu shouted, his enthusiasm evident as he prepared to face off against Jellal

Sensing Natsu's determination, Erza gritted her teeth, acknowledging Jellal's superior strength. Despite her own formidable abilities, she understood that she could not defeat Jellal as she was now.

"Erza, let me deal with him," Natsu insisted, his gaze unwavering as he focused on the task at hand.

Erza hesitated for a moment, torn between her desire to protect Natsu and her trust in his abilities. But ultimately, she nodded in agreement, she knew just how powerful Natsu truly was.

"Okay, I understand, Natsu," she conceded, her voice resolute as she prepared to support him from the sidelines.

''Meteor!'' As Jellal dashed towards him, Natsu met the attack head-on, bracing himself for the impact. Jellal managed to push Natsu away, sending him backflipping through the air before landing gracefully on the ground.

With a slight lean, Natsu placed his hands on his knees, his fiery gaze fixed firmly on Jellal. "C'mon, boy! I'll take you for a walk, just wait for me to take the leash," he taunted, his voice laced with playful mockery.

,,You!'' said Jellal, infuriated at being treated like a dog .

As Jellal lunged forward with renewed determination, his movements fueled by frustration and anger, Natsu's fiery gaze remained fixed firmly upon him. With a taunting smirk playing on his lips, Natsu braced himself for the impending clash.

As Jellal closed the distance between them with incredible speed, Natsu calmly extended his hand, a single palm serving as a barrier to halt Jellal's advance. The force of the impact reverberated through the air, creating a brief moment of tension before Jellal quickly regained his balance, his eyes burning with determination.

As Natsu and Jellal's battle intensified, the air crackled with tension as their movements became a blur of speed and precision.

Natsu's martial prowess was a deadly blend of ancient and modern techniques, his strikes unpredictable and ferocious. Each blow crashed against Jellal's defenses with thunderous force, sending shockwaves rippling through the air with every impact.

With a swift leap, Natsu soared through the air, aiming a devastating kick at Jellal's head. However, Jellal reacted quickly, raising his arms to block the incoming strike. To his surprise, Natsu's attack never came. Instead, Natsu landed gracefully on the ground and launched a surprise counterattack.

In a split second, Natsu crouched low and unleashed a powerful punch directly into Jellal's stomach. The impact folded Jellal over Natsu's hand, sending him hurtling through the air until he collided with a nearby wall. The sound of Jellal's impact echoed through the battlefield as he struggled to regain his footing, blood dripping from his lips as he glared at Natsu with defiance.

Despite the pain coursing through his body, Jellal clenched his teeth and prepared to launch another attack. But before he could make a move, he was caught off guard by Natsu's next move.

With a calm demeanor, Natsu extended his right hand, his middle and pointer fingers poised with deadly precision. Jellal's eyes widened in disbelief as he recognized the stance—a 1-inch punch.

"You think this is a joke?" Jellal began to protest, but his words were cut short as Natsu vanished from his sight, reappearing before him in the blink of an eye. With lightning speed, Natsu delivered the devastating blow directly to Jellal's chest, sending shockwaves rippling through his body as he staggered backward, gasping for breath.

,,You were saying ?'' said Natsu

,,C'mon ! Show me something !'' he continued.

As Natsu's taunting words hung in the air, Jellal's determination flared anew. With a defiant glare, he steadied himself, ready to unleash his full power against his formidable opponent.

"Fine then!" Jellal exclaimed, his voice laced with determination as he summoned his magic. With a burst of energy, he propelled himself into the sky, his form surrounded by a swirling vortex of magical energy.

High above, seven intricate magic circles materialized in the sky, each one pulsating with raw power as they began to charge their respective spells. Jellal's eyes gleamed with focused intensity as he channeled his magic into the formations, his resolve unwavering as he prepared to unleash his ultimate attack.

"Grand Chariot!" Jellal cried out, his voice echoing across the battlefield as the magic circles erupted in a dazzling display of light. From each circle, a beam of energy erupted, each one as massive as a mansion, hurtling towards the tower below.

But just as the beams approached their target, an eighth magic circle suddenly materialized, drawing the individual beams towards it with irresistible force. With a powerful surge of magic, the beams were compressed into a singular, devastating blast, aimed directly at Natsu below.

Despite the overwhelming power of the attack, Natsu's grin only widened as he watched the beam hurtle towards him. With a defiant laugh, he raised his arms in anticipation, his Silver aura blazing with intensity as he braced himself for the impact.

As the concentrated blast of energy collided with Natsu, a shockwave rippled through the air, shaking the very foundations of the tower. But to Jellal's astonishment, Natsu stood firm amidst the chaos, his laughter ringing out defiantly even as he was engulfed by the blast.

,,YES THAT'S MORE LIKE IT !'' said Natsu looking unharmed by the blast, not even his clothes looking to have taken damage.

Jellal hovered for a minute, baffled at how Natsu made his attacks look like it was nothing more than an insect trying to bite him.

Jellal growed and decided to use his most powerful spell.

He started to radiate magic power , the sky darkening , clouds began circling as something was coming out … no, falling out of the sky.

Natsu looks at his grins as much as possible, his fangs on full display, his sclera flashing black for a moment out of excitement .

Jellal roared the spell's name.

''True Heavenly Body Magic: SEMA!''

A Humongous meteor rapidly falls from the sky towards the tower towards Natsu …. who was flying towards it …

With a swift motion, Natsu summoned his sword, Yamato, its blade glowing with an otherworldly aura that matched the intensity of his own aura. With a swift motion, he invoked his own spell.

Natsu draws the Yamato looking like a normal draw …

''Space-Time Shattered : Equinox-Absolute Rift!''

….only for all sound to cease, all moving things to stop, birds, falling rocks, the waves of the sea, stopped, suspended, as if time stopped, and suddenly, massive slashes the size of mountains envelop the falling meteor, the space of the slashes separated allowing all to see something they could only describe as the absence of …. every thing, the absence of space , the absence of time.

The air crackled with energy as the rifts tore through the very fabric of space-time, creating a void of absolute nothingness in their wake.

As the rifts closed in on the meteor, they began to crush and break it atom by atom, erasing its existence from reality itself. With a deafening roar, the meteor was consumed by the void, disappearing without a trace as if it had never existed.

The rifts closed in on themselves, the flow of time and space returning to normal as if nothing had happened. The frozen spectators began to move once more.

Even if everyone was frozen, anyone who was watching the fight had seen the divine feet that just happened.

Jellal's eyes were trembling looking towards the place the meteor once existed''Wh-what?'' he asked , only to receive a kick that sent him back to the tower.

With Hades

,,What just happened ? Jellal summoned a meteor and it disappeared !'' asked a member of the Seven Kin.

Not everyone was able to …comprehend what just happened , those not strong enough were completely frozen unable to witness this ..divine feet, the only ones able to being Hades, Ultear and the guild's Ace BlueNote Stinger.

,,Di- did use space time manipulation to cut REALTY ?" Ultear's question caused the entire Guild to panic at the thought.

Hades , the normally stoic master was at a loss of words, his eye widened as he struggled to fully believe , his limited demonic power having granted him an even bigger understanding than Ultear and Bluenote.

,,Did we take him too lightly ?'' asked Hades

Bluenote asked something that had everyone stopping ''Could it be possible …. that he is actually Zeref himself? We know from Tartaros at the very least one of his companions, Seilah, is a demon .''

Hades thought about it but refused ''No … i have seen Zeref myself a long time ago, they don't look the same, similar, but not the same.''

Bluenote continued ''A mage like Zeref would have no problem changing his appearance.''

Hades remain silent ''Let's just continue to watch.''

Back at The Tower

As Jellal struggled to rise from the ground, his body battered and magic spent, he could only stare in disbelief at the aftermath of Natsu's devastating attack.

"What... what was that?" Jellal questioned, his voice trembling with fear and awe.

Natsu approached him slowly, a smirk playing on his lips as he explained the nature of his powerful spell.

"Space-Time Manipulation," Natsu replied confidently, his fiery gaze locking with Jellal's. "An unblockable, undodgeable, unstoppable attack. It manipulates Space-Time itself to create an absolute rift in time and space, in reality."

Jellal's eyes widened in terror as the gravity of Natsu's words sank in. He had just witnessed firsthand the incomprehensible power wielded by his opponent, a power that transcended the limits of magic itself.

"Wh- who are you? What are you?" Jellal stammered, his voice trembling with uncertainty.

Natsu chuckled softly, the sound echoing through the air with an air of amusement.

"So now you believe me?" he quipped, his smirk widening as he looked down at Jellal. The truth of his identity remained shrouded in mystery, but one thing was certain: Natsu was no ordinary mage, and Jellal had just learned that the hard way.

As Jellal's eyes widened in shock and horror, Natsu's smirk transformed into a sinister grin, his aura darkening as he revealed the truth behind his identity.

"Remember what I said about... being closer to your idol? Aka Zeref?" Natsu's voice carried a chilling undertone as he posed the question.

Jellal's breath caught in his throat as he struggled to comprehend the implications of Natsu's words. "Are you – are you a Demon of Zeref?" he asked, his voice trembling with fear.

Natsu's grin widened, his sclera turning black as his demonic nature began to surface. "I'm the reason he even exists," he declared, his voice low and menacing. "The reason he even approached magic the way he did."

As Natsu's laughter echoed through the air, Jellal's confusion only deepened. "What – what do you mean by that?" he asked, his voice trembling with uncertainty.

Natsu's gaze bore into Jellal's, his eyes burning with an intense determination. "We are brothers, Zeref and I," he began, his voice carrying a weight of ancient knowledge. "My death at the hands of a fearful God made Zeref into what he IS. And the best way to spit in that God's face was to resurrect me, to make me into the exact existence the God feared."

With each word, Natsu's presence seemed to grow more imposing, his aura radiating an undeniable sense of power and authority. He began to pace around, his movements fluid and purposeful as he continued to explain his true nature.

"Etherious Natsu Dragneel, E.N.D. The Destroyer of All, The Immortal Slayer, The Killer of The Unkillable," Natsu declared, his voice resonating with a sense of pride and defiance. "That is what I am."

Jellal struggled to comprehend the gravity of Natsu's revelation, his mind reeling with the implications of his words. "Then why – why stand against me?" he asked, his voice tinged with confusion. "Why not help resurrect Zeref?"

Natsu regarded him with a bored expression, his demeanor unyielding in the face of Jellal's uncertainty. "Because he ain't dead, jackass," he retorted bluntly. "He is not speaking to you. He would not waste his time. We had a sort of falling out, something happened and he became unstable. He sent me to a different Era, and now, he's sending Demon armies to test me."

As Natsu's words sank in, Jellal felt the ground beneath him crumble, his sense of reality shattering like fragile glass. The weight of the truth bore down on him like an avalanche, threatening to engulf him in its suffocating embrace.

"I... I can't..." Jellal stammered, his voice barely above a whisper as he struggled to comprehend the enormity of what Natsu had revealed. His mind raced with a whirlwind of emotions – disbelief, fear, and a profound sense of despair.

Images flashed before his mind's eye – memories of his past, his ambitions, and his dreams crumbling into dust. Everything he thought he knew, everything he had fought for, useless, based on a lie.

Unable to bear the weight of his shattered reality, Jellal sank to his knees, his body trembling with uncontrollable tremors. Tears welled up in his eyes, blurring his vision as he struggled to make sense of the chaos consuming his mind.

"I... I trusted you..." Jellal whispered hoarsely, his voice choked with emotion. "I thought... I thought you were..."

But his words trailed off into a choked sob, lost amidst the storm of confusion and despair raging within him. In that moment, Jellal felt utterly and irreversibly lost, adrift in a sea of uncertainty with no hope of finding his way back to shore.

As Natsu watched Jellal's breakdown, a hint of pity flickered in his eyes. Despite everything, he couldn't help but feel a pang of empathy for the man who had been manipulated and deceived.

With a solemn expression, Natsu raised his hand, his palm glowing with a purple aura. Without a word, he unleashed a blast of energy towards Jellal's head, severing the connection to Ultear but leaving him alive.

"The tower will explode in a few minutes. Do as you please," Natsu stated calmly as he appeared beside Erza. Without another glance back, they both took to the skies, leaving the crumbling tower behind them.

Back with Hades

In the stillness of the moment, silence enveloped the chamber, heavy and suffocating, as if the weight of Natsu's revelation hung in the air like a shroud.

Bluenote swallowed hard, his voice barely above a whisper as he uttered the name, "E.N.D., the most powerful demon, said to make Zeref look like an amateur... his own brother."

Hades nodded slowly, the gravity of the situation sinking in. "This... this changes everything," he murmured, his mind racing with the implications of Natsu's true identity and the power he wielded.

As the realization settled upon them, a palpable tension filled the room, thickening the air with uncertainty and apprehension. The knowledge of Natsu's true nature cast a shadow over their plans, forcing them to reassess their strategies and alliances in light of this new revelation.

Bluenote's mind raced as he contemplated the implications of E.N.D.'s existence. If Natsu was indeed the legendary demon, then their previous assumptions about his capabilities were sorely underestimated. The very thought sent a chill down his spine, realizing the magnitude of the power they were dealing with.

Hades, too, grappled with the weight of this revelation. As the mastermind behind Grimoire Heart, he understood the significance of having E.N.D. as a potential ally—or a formidable adversary. The balance of power in the magical world had shifted, and they needed to tread carefully in the days to come.

With a heavy sigh, Hades broke the silence, his voice laced with a newfound urgency. "We must proceed with caution. E.N.D. changes the game entirely. Our plans must adapt to this new reality if we are to emerge victorious. We should contact Tartaros tell them of this, they are after all Demons of Zeref.''

At Hades's suggestion to contact Tartaros, Bluenote nodded in agreement. "Yes, informing Tartaros of this development is prudent. As fellow demons of Zeref, they may have insights or resources that could prove invaluable in navigating this new landscape."

Hades nodded in agreement, acknowledging the necessity of collaborating with Tartaros in light of the revelation about E.N.D. "Indeed, our ties to Tartaros may prove to be invaluable in navigating these uncertain waters. They share our allegiance to Zeref, and together, we can pool our knowledge and resources to confront this new threat."

Bluenote inclined his head in solemn agreement. "Agreed. We must act swiftly and decisively to ensure that we are not caught off guard by E.N.D.'s machinations. Our alliance with Tartaros will strengthen our position and give us the leverage we need to navigate this turbulent period."

With their course of action decided, Hades and Bluenote wasted no time in contacting Tartaros, relaying the news of E.N.D.'s emergence and the implications it held for their shared goals. Together, they would forge a united front against the formidable presence of Natsu Dragneel as E.N.D., ensuring that they remained one step ahead in the unfolding conflict.