Chapter-6: Preparations

Two years have passed since Natsu and Seilah met, their bond growing stronger with each passing day. But as time marched on, new threats loomed on the horizon.

Ankhseram has found out Natsu was resurrected and of the shear power he already possessed as a child , thankfully Igneel was not the only one to get out of that fight weekend, Igneel used a lot of his power and authority over the land that used to be the dragon's to ''deny'' Ankhseram access , this will not hold forever .

Meanwhile, Acnologia, the Transcended Dragon, continued to grow in power with each passing day, aware of Natsu's latent potential and seeking to devour his formidable magic. It was imperative that Natsu be protected at all costs.

One thing that intrigued Natsu was Avalon, the so-called Utopia land of fairies. It was the fairies of Avalon who had warned them of the impending danger posed by Ankhseram and Acnologia, and it was they who had helped to create a way to send the children into the future. Though the fairies' motives remained unclear, it seemed that they had taken a particular interest in Natsu, perhaps hoping that he would one day journey to Avalon and fulfill some greater purpose.

Natsu and Seilah were not alone in this struggle. Four other children, dragon slayers trained and raised by dragons, had been sent to the future alongside them. These children were the vessels for their dragon parents, whose souls had been damaged to the point that a trip to the Dragon Realm might prove fatal. By sealing themselves within their children, the dragons hoped to ensure their offspring's safety and prevent them from succumbing to the madness of dragon magic.

Only a few weeks remain until the trip.

Natsu now stands at an average height for his age, with a lean yet muscular build that speaks to his physical prowess. His vibrant pink-salmon hair falls in untamed waves around his face and shoulders, occasionally tied back to keep it out of his piercing silver eyes. These eyes, with their slitted pupils, hold a sharp intensity, reflecting both his curiosity and his determination.

His features are angular and defined, with a strong jawline and high cheekbones, giving him a somewhat rugged appearance despite his youth.

Natsu wears a full-length black coat with sleeves that reach just below his elbows, allowing his intricate demonic tattoos to be partially visible. The coat is adorned with silver accents and intricate stitching, hinting at both its durability and craftsmanship. The fabric itself seems to ripple with a faint, otherworldly energy, a testament to Natsu's connection to the demonic realm.

Underneath the coat, he sports a simple black tank top, providing freedom of movement during combat. His arms are adorned with elaborate tattoos that extend from his wrists to just below his elbows, depicting swirling patterns and arcane symbols that pulse with dark energy.

For trousers, Natsu opts for comfortable black cargo pants, providing ample storage for his various tools and weapons. His footwear consists of sturdy combat boots, well-worn from countless hours of training and combat.

Drifting around him, a faint aura of demonic energy shimmers, manifesting as wisps of shadowy mist tinged with flickers of eerie light. This aura serves as a constant reminder of his supernatural abilities and the power that lies dormant within him.

As for Seilah raiders an aura of quiet strength, her features exuding an air of maturity. Her slender frame is adorned with a knee-length, sleeveless dress in deep shades of purple, reflecting the darkness she commands. Around her waist, she wears a leather belt adorned with mystical symbols, each one hinting at the depths of her power.

Selah's long hair cascades down her back in waves of midnight black, framing her delicate features with an ethereal elegance. Her eyes, a piercing shade of amethyst, gleam with intelligence and determination, betraying the depths of her inner strength.

Seilah now wields a naginata, a weapons of extraordinary craftsmanship, its blade etched with ancient runes and shimmering with an otherworldly sheen. Wrapped in supple leather, its handle provides a firm grip, while a small amethyst gemstone at the base serves as a conduit for Seilah's dark energies.

Natsu leaned against a nearby tree, his expression a mix of irritation and resignation as he stared out into the distance. "Can you believe this? Ankhseram, Acnologia... And now we're being dragged into some future mess? This is ridiculous."

Seilah, standing beside him, couldn't help but find his reaction intriguing. She smiled softly, her purple eyes sparkling with amusement. "I have to admit, Natsu, I find your annoyance quite cute."

Natsu shot her a sideways glance, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "Hey, I'm not cute" he retorted, trying to maintain his tough demeanor. "I'm a powerful demon, remember?"

Seilah chuckled softly. "Of course, Natsu, of course. A powerful demon who just happens to be cute when he's annoyed."

As Seilah's laughter faded, Natsu's irritation resurfaced, his thoughts drifting to the impending journey to the future. "I can't believe this. Instead of staying and facing them head-on, I'm forced to run away to the future. I'll lose hundreds of years of training for this. I'd rather die fighting than surrender like this.''

Seilah nodded sympathetically, understanding his frustration. "I know, Natsu. But sometimes, retreat is the best strategy. We have to ensure our survival before we can think about anything else."

Natsu's eyes narrowed with determination. "Survival, huh? I'd rather go down fighting than cower and hide. If they want a battle, they'll get one. And I won't hold back."

Seilah placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "I know, Natsu. And when the time comes, you'll face them alone, and I'll be right there, supporting you from the shadows."

Seilah placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "We're not giving up, Natsu. We're strategizing. And when the time comes, we'll return stronger than ever, ready to face whatever challenges await us."

Natsu's eyes gleamed with determination as he met Seilah's gaze. "You're right, Seilah. We'll come back stronger, and I'll take them down, whatever they throw at us. Alone."

Natsu's expression softened slightly, his pride unwavering. "Together, we'll overcome any obstacle. And as for Mundus... Well, I guess we'll just have to wait and see what he's up to."

Natsu's thoughts drifted to the enigmatic figure of Mundus, his brow furrowing with concern. "Mundus... He's a wild card in all of this. We don't even know what he's planning."

Seilah nodded, her expression mirroring his unease. "Zeref's instability has been affecting everything lately. Mundus might be acting on his own agenda, but who knows how it's connected to Zeref's unraveling."

Natsu's gaze hardened with determination. "Whatever Mundus is up to, it doesn't change anything for me. I'll face him just like I'll face anyone else who tries to get in my way."

Seilah's eyes sparkled with admiration at his resolve. "You're as stubborn as ever, Natsu. But that's what makes you so strong."

Natsu smirked, a hint of mischief in his eyes. "Damn right. And no one, not even Mundus, can change that."

Natsu's concern for Zeref weighed heavily on his mind, overshadowing even his frustration about the impending journey to the future. "I can't shake the feeling that something's not right with Zeref," he admitted, his voice tinged with worry.

Seilah placed a comforting hand on his shoulder, her eyes reflecting his concern. "I know. He's been acting more erratically lately. It's like he's slipping away from us."

Natsu clenched his fists, his resolve wavering for a moment. "I can't just leave him behind, Seilah. Despite everything, he's still my brother."

Seilah nodded in understanding, her expression softening. "I know you care about him, Natsu. But sometimes, we have to focus on what's best for ourselves and those we care about."

Natsu sighed, knowing she was right but unable to shake the guilt gnawing at him. "I just hope he'll be okay while we're gone. I can't bear the thought of something happening to him."

Seilah squeezed his shoulder reassuringly. "We'll find a way to help him, Natsu. But for now, we have to focus on the challenges ahead."

Natsu nodded, steeling himself for the trials to come. "Yeah, you're right. Let's make sure we're ready for whatever awaits us in the future."

Seilah's gaze drifted towards the horizon, where the mysterious land of Avalon lay shrouded in uncertainty. "Do you think Avalon holds the answers we seek?" she mused, her voice tinged with curiosity.

Natsu followed her gaze, his thoughts swirling with anticipation and apprehension. "I'm not sure, but there's something about Avalon that feels... significant," he replied, his tone thoughtful.

Seilah nodded, a faint smile playing on her lips. "It's like a beacon calling out to us, drawing us closer with each passing moment."

Natsu's brow furrowed in determination. "Whatever awaits us there, I'm ready to face it head-on. If Avalon holds the key to our future, then I won't hesitate to unlock its secrets."

Seilah's expression softened as she spoke, her voice filled with a sense of wonder. "I've heard stories about Avalon from the fairies," she began, her eyes alight with curiosity. "They speak of it as a place of endless beauty and boundless magic, where dreams are woven into reality."

Natsu's interest was piqued, his curiosity overshadowing his earlier apprehension. "What kind of magic do they practice there?" he asked, his tone eager.

Seilah shrugged, a playful smile dancing on her lips. "From what I've heard, the magic of Avalon is unlike anything we've ever encountered. It's said to be as vast and unpredictable as the stars themselves."

Natsu's eyes widened with fascination as he imagined the possibilities. "So, do you think they'll teach us their magic when we reach Avalon?" he asked, unable to hide his excitement.

atsu's brow furrowed slightly as he considered Seilah's words, his mind swirling with thoughts of the unknown. "It's hard to imagine what lies ahead," he admitted, his tone tinged with uncertainty. "But if Avalon truly holds the answers we seek, then I'm willing to face whatever challenges come our way."

Seilah nodded in agreement, her eyes reflecting the flickering flames of determination. "We may not know what awaits us, but one thing's for certain—we won't be facing it alone," she reassured him, her voice steady.

Natsu's gaze softened as he looked at Seilah, a sense of gratitude welling up within him. "Thanks, Seilah," he said sincerely. "I don't know where I'd be without you by my side."

Seilah smiled warmly, a silent understanding passing between them. "We'll face this together, Natsu," she said softly. "No matter what happens, I'll always be here for you."

As Natsu and Seilah delved deeper into their discussion about Avalon, their conversation was abruptly interrupted by the booming voice of Igneel. "Ah, young lovebirds lost in dreams of utopia," he chuckled, his tone laced with amusement.

Natsu's cheeks flushed with embarrassment at Igneel's teasing, while Seilah tried to suppress a giggle at the dragon's playful jab. "Igneel, we were just talking about Avalon," Natsu protested, his attempt to deflect the attention falling flat.

Igneel's eyes twinkled with mischief as he circled around them, his massive form casting a shadow over the cave floor. "Of course, of course," he said with a knowing grin. "But remember, there's work to be done before you can go gallivanting off to fairyland."

Natsu scowled at Igneel's teasing, his pride wounded by the dragon's playful banter. "Yeah, yeah, we know," he grumbled, his irritation evident in his tone. "We'll get to the future and deal with whatever threats await us."

Seilah shot Natsu a sympathetic look, her eyes twinkling with amusement despite his grumpiness. "Don't mind Igneel, Natsu," she whispered teasingly. "He's just trying to keep us on our toes."

Natsu rolled his eyes at Seilah's comment, but couldn't help but smile at her playful demeanor. "Yeah, yeah, I know," he muttered, his annoyance melting away in the face of her infectious energy. "Let's just get this over with so we can get back to training."

Igneel chuckled at their exchange, a warm glow of pride swelling within him as he watched the two young warriors banter back and forth. "That's the spirit," he said approvingly. "Now, let's make sure you're ready for whatever comes your way."

Igneel's gaze shifted towards the entrance of the cave, his expression thoughtful as he pondered the enigmatic fairies. "The fairies have always been mysterious beings," he mused, his voice tinged with reverence. "But there's a wisdom to them, a depth of knowledge that even I can't fully comprehend."

Natsu and Seilah exchanged curious glances, intrigued by Igneel's cryptic words. "Do you trust them, Igneel?" Natsu asked, his voice tinged with curiosity.

Igneel nodded solemnly, his eyes alight with respect. "I do," he replied without hesitation. "They may be elusive, but they are beings of great power and wisdom. Whatever their intentions may be, I believe they are worthy of our respect."

Seilah nodded in agreement, her expression thoughtful. "If they've helped us in the past and warned us of the dangers ahead, then perhaps we should trust their guidance," she suggested, her voice soft but firm.

Natsu hesitated for a moment, his pride warring with his skepticism. But ultimately, he found himself nodding in reluctant agreement. "Alright, fine," he conceded, his voice grudging. "But I still don't like the idea of relying on others for help."

Igneel chuckled softly at Natsu's stubbornness, a fond smile gracing his draconic features. "I know, Natsu," he said gently. "But sometimes, even the strongest warriors need allies. And if the fairies are willing to aid us in our journey, then we should accept their assistance with gratitude."

Natsu grumbled under his breath, but he couldn't deny the wisdom in Igneel's words. With a resigned sigh, he turned to Seilah, his eyes meeting hers with a hint of determination. "Alright, let's do this," he said, his voice firm. "We'll trust the fairies and face whatever challenges come our way together."

Seilah smiled warmly at Natsu's resolve, her eyes shining with admiration. "Together," she agreed, her voice soft but resolute. "We'll face whatever the future holds, side by side."