Days later at the guild
The members were all gathered in the hall, waiting eagerly for the announcement of the participants for the S-class exam. The air was thick with anticipation, everyone buzzing with excitement and curiosity about who would be chosen this year.
Makarov made his way to the stage, the guild falling silent as he stood before them. "Evening, brats," he began. "You all know what this is about, so we're going straight to the point."
He coughed into his hand to get their attention, the suspense building.
"Juvia Lockser."
Juvia clasped her hands together, a mixture of mischief and joy evident on her face as she looked towards Gray and winked.
"Lucy Heartfilia."
Lucy gave a small smirk, her determination shining through.
"Cana Alberona."
Cana grinned, raising her drink in a celebratory toast. She had been waiting for this opportunity and was ready to prove herself.
"Elfman Strauss."
Elfman pounded his chest, his usual bravado masking the deep sense of honor he felt at being chosen.
"Gray Fullbuster."
Gray gave a confident smirk, his eyes flashing with confidence and competitive spirit.
"Gajeel Redfox."
Gajeel's expression remained stoic, but a flicker of pride passed through his eyes.
"Fried Justine."
Fried had a calm determination settling over him. He knew this was his chance to step up and demonstrate his capabilities.
"Mest Gryder."
A lean-built man of average height, with black hair and some scars on the left side of his face, stepped forward. Mest Gryder was a rat from the Council, capable of using some sort of Memory Magic. He was here under the guise of participating in the exam, but in reality, he aimed to gather dirt on Fairy Tail and find a reason for the Council to arrest the Dragneels. Of course, his Memory Magic did not work on non-humans.
Natsu had sensed Mest's presence immediately and had to restrain his initial impulse to tear the man's head off. They had decided to let him stay, reasoning that he might prove to be either entertaining or, at the very least, provide an excuse to finally rid themselves of the Council's interference. Until then, they would ignore his presence, pretending not to see through his guise.
Makarov continued, "Now you are all aware of Gray, Gajeel, Juvia, and Lucy's unique states. Lucy and Juvia will form a team, as will Gray and Gajeel, and your opponents have been chosen already."
The hall buzzed with murmurs of excitement and speculation about the teams and their upcoming challenges. Makarov raised his hand for silence, and the room quickly quieted down.
"The S-class exam is not just a test of your strength and magic. It's a test of your spirit, your determination, and your ability to work together as a team. Lucy and Juvia, Gray and Gajeel, you will face some of the toughest trials we've ever set."
Elfman spoke up, voicing a question that had been on many minds. "Why do they get to form teams if they are already participating? And why are they the only ones to already have their opponents decided?"
Before Makarov could respond, Natsu stepped forward, his eyes blazing with intensity. "In case you forgot, Elfman, any one of those four can wipe all life on this continent. They get special treatment because they earned it."
Elfman's eyes widened, and a few others nodded, recalling the recent feats and battles that showcased the immense power Lucy, Juvia, Gray, and Gajeel had attained.
Makarov nodded in agreement with Natsu's statement. "Exactly. Like it or not, they are in a different league than even the strongest humans."
Seilah then spoke, her tone blunt but factual. "You might not like it, but the truth is, the exam was modified for other people to have a chance. They are above anything humans can do, let alone S-Class."
"Why do they participate? Or why not just make them S-Class?" someone asked from the crowd.
Natsu chuckled. "Because it's more fun this way. They are going to fight one of us, and they will learn who when the exam starts on the island."
Cana spoke next, her tone light-hearted but serious. "Yeah, I don't have a problem with that. I mean, I don't think having to fight Natsu or Seilah can be considered good special treatment," she joked.
"Well, Natsu and Seilah are not the only obstacles, Cana," said Gildarts, who had just made his way to the stage.
"Gildarts is going to take part?" Lisanna asked, her eyes widening in surprise. "The last time he got involved was when Natsu was made S-Class."
Mirajane also stepped onto the stage, a confident smile on her face. "I'll also be there. I might not be the same type of monster, but I am still an S-Class wizard," she said, winking toward her siblings.
The guild members exchanged glances, the gravity of the upcoming exam sinking in. With Gildarts and Mirajane participating, along with Natsu and Seilah, the challenges ahead would be formidable.
Makarov concluded, "This exam is not just a test of power but of character, teamwork, and resilience. Each of you has the potential to become an S-Class wizard, and this is your chance to prove it."
The anticipation and excitement in the hall were palpable as the guild members prepared themselves mentally and physically for the trials that lay ahead.
A few days later
Natsu and Seilah, accompanied by Gildarts and Mira, arrived at Tenrou Island a few hours ahead of the others. As they approached the island, Natsu's gaze was intense, his focus fixed on the horizon.
Seilah noticed his demeanor and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder, planting a kiss on his cheek. "Something bothering you?" she asked, her concern evident in her voice.
Natsu remained silent for a moment before finally speaking. "He's here, I'm sure of it," he said, his tone serious and determined.
Seilah's expression shifted to match his seriousness. "Can you sense him?" she inquired, her own senses on high alert.
Natsu nodded, his eyes narrowing with concentration. "Yes, but not fully. I know he is here. We're going with the plan, let things play out as if we don't know anything," he decided, reaffirming their strategy in dealing with the potential threat of Zeref's presence on the island.
They dispersed on the island, taking their places and waiting for the participants to find them.
Hours later, Elfman, along with Evergreen, found themselves face to face with Mira.
"Hello," Mira greeted playfully, her demeanor both inviting and mischievous.
"Oh dear," Elfman whispered nervously, recognizing the challenge ahead.
Cana and Levy entered a cave where Gildarts was waiting for them.
"Hey, girls, hope you're ready," Gildarts greeted them casually, though his eyes held a spark of anticipation.
Lucy and Juvia found themselves facing Seilah, who awaited them with a smile.
Lucy readied her bow and arrow, her expression determined. "Well, let's put on a show," she declared confidently.
Juvia summoned her spear, mirroring Lucy's determination. "Yes," she agreed, her voice filled with resolve.
Seilah simply smiled, her eyes gleaming with anticipation. "Show me what you've got," she encouraged.
Gray and Gajeel were walking in a cave when suddenly the surroundings transformed into a sort of arena.
Natsu awaited them in the middle, sitting on a throne. He wore his signature 'Silver-Eyed' look, his long black coat glowing subtly silver from its accents, and his tattoos on his hands on display.
Turning his glowing silver eyes to them, he spoke with a hint of playful challenge, "Shall we? Or do you ladies want some foreplay?"
Both Gajeel and Gray grinned in response. Gray drew his sword, while Gajeel summoned his metal wings, separating them into feathers floating around him.
Natsu got up, the throne disappearing in black smoke as he summoned the Yamato. "Let's have some fun," he declared, his own excitement matching theirs.
Back with Seilah
Seilah was exchanging blows with Juvia while simultaneously dodging Lucy's arrows. The two fighters appeared to be teleporting around the beach, with light explosions constantly raining around them. Parrying Juvia with her naginata, Seilah suddenly disappeared.
"Where did she go?" whispered Lucy, her senses on high alert. Suddenly, she jumped, narrowly dodging a strike aimed at her legs from behind.
Seilah chuckled. "Good," she said approvingly, "but not enough." She grabbed Lucy's leg and threw her toward the sea, simultaneously taking her bow.
Juvia responded by summoning thousands of water chains, which shot toward Seilah.
"Infernal FrostBite!" Seilah froze the water chains and shattered them effortlessly. Juvia gritted her teeth; she was not surprised that Seilah knew more than just Darkness Magic.
Lucy emerged from the sea, her sword in hand. "Light Demon's Lunar Slash!" Lucy shouted, sending a giant slash attack made from lunar light toward Seilah.
Seilah took a deep breath. "Darkness Demon's Rage!" she countered, her beam of darkness clashing with Lucy's slash, creating a massive explosion.
Lucy regrouped with Juvia. "Let's go," she said, determination in her voice.
"Yeah," Juvia agreed.
Seilah smiled as she saw them preparing for another round. The three girls dashed forward at light speed, meeting in the middle. They immediately began exchanging blows, Seilah expertly parrying and counter-attacking each move.
Juvia aimed a powerful water strike at Seilah's left side while Lucy swung her sword with precision toward Seilah's right. Seilah blocked Juvia's strike with her naginata, spun around, and parried Lucy's sword, pushing her back slightly.
"You two have improved," Seilah said with a smile. "But let's see if you can keep up."
Juvia and Lucy exchanged a determined glance, nodding to each other before launching their coordinated attack once more.
With Mira
Back with Mira, she stood in her formidable Satan Soul form, her presence imposing and powerful. Elfman and Evergreen lay on the ground, catching their breath from the intense battle.
"Are you done?" Mira asked, her tone amused and a playful smile on her face.
Evergreen, despite her exhaustion, had an idea. She glanced at Elfman and then back at Mira, a slight blush coloring her cheeks. She decided to take a chance with her plan, figuring it was all or nothing at this point.
"There's something you should know," Evergreen said, her voice steady despite her nervousness.
Mira raised an eyebrow, curious. "Oh? What is it?"
Taking a deep breath, Evergreen stood up, all or nothing.
With Gildarts
Gildarts remained in the cave alone, a smirk playing on his lips. "Yeah… I should start teaching her my tricks," he mused aloud.
Cana was more like him than she cared to admit. Natsu had told him that she had inherited his gifts, though they remained dormant. Now, he finally saw them, deep within her soul. He had tested to see how she would react when faced with superior power. Would she give up? Or would she continue to fight? Once, he would have called those who refused to give up fools.
Not many knew, but when he fought Natsu, it was more a battle of ideas than a physical confrontation. At first, Gildarts had seen Natsu as an arrogant brat. He had been angered by Natsu's blunt words and unyielding spirit. Natsu was never afraid of him or the truth.
'Fear is not evil, like you said, but it is not meant to be listened to lest you become its slave,' Natsu had once told him. 'Humans are weak because they fear too much. They fear change, they fear overcoming fear. Without power, you can't protect anyone, you can't even protect yourself. Shout all you want about your bonds and friends, but it will bring you no victory, only power does. And power does not come to those who fear it, it will not come to those scared of it.'
Cana had refused to give up, even when confronted with superior power. That was what Natsu had talked about—the drive to grow stronger requires pride in oneself. It was not just about power; it was about the will to attain it and the courage to wield it.
Gildarts nodded to himself, his decision made. He would teach Cana everything he knew. She had shown the spirit, the determination, and the pride necessary to walk the path of power. And he would be there to guide her every step of the way.
"Alright, Cana," he murmured, a sense of resolve settling over him. "Let's see how far you can go."
With a renewed sense of purpose, Gildarts prepared to mentor his daughter, knowing that with the right guidance, she could surpass even his expectations. The future was bright, and he was eager to see Cana's growth firsthand.
With Natsu
Laughter filled the arena, interspersed with the sharp clang of clashing weapons. Natsu exchanged blows with Gray and Gajeel at light speed, the two coordinating their attacks with seamless precision. Gray's swords met Natsu's Yamato, while Gajeel used his metal feathers as both swords and projectiles, creating a relentless barrage.
Despite the intensity, Natsu seemed unperturbed, his laughter echoing through the arena as he fought them. "You've grown well," Natsu complimented, genuinely impressed by their progress.
Gajeel, though frustrated, responded, "We haven't even landed a hit on you."
Natsu smiled, his eyes gleaming with pride. "You both have reached levels some demons and dragons never attain in hundreds of years. I'm a fucking abomination in a way, believe me when I tell you. You are strong. You have real power."
Gray chuckled, pausing for a moment to catch his breath. "Yeah, we've come a long way in a small time frame compared to immortal beings. And about not landing a hit on you… well, you are Natsu Dragneel."
Natsu's laughter grew louder, filled with genuine warmth. "True, but it's not just about landing hits. It's about pushing your limits, finding your strength, and knowing that you can stand against any challenge." He sheathed the Yamato, extending a hand towards them. "And you two have proven that today."
Gray and Gajeel shared a look, their expressions shifting from frustration to determination. Gray stepped forward, taking Natsu's hand. "We'll keep pushing, Natsu. We won't stop until we can stand on equal footing with you."
Gajeel nodded, stepping up beside Gray. "Yeah, we're not done yet. We'll keep training, keep fighting, and one day… we'll land that hit."
Natsu's grin widened, his pride in his friends palpable. "I look forward to it."
Natsu continued, his tone more serious now. "Right now, I am rightfully the King of all Dragons, a King of Demons, and most likely will be much more. I want you two to know you are my brothers. I will have you with me, as fellow kings. Gajeel, you've already reached the stage, and it won't take more than a few weeks for you, Gray, to reach the Ice Dragon King stage."
Gray's eyes widened in surprise. "You really think I'm that close?"
Natsu nodded, his expression earnest. "I know you are. You have the strength, the determination, and the heart. It's just a matter of time and training."
Gajeel smirked, clapping Gray on the shoulder. "Looks like we're both gonna be kings, huh? Guess I'll have to keep an eye on you to make sure you don't slack off."
Gray chuckled, the weight of Natsu's words sinking in. "Yeah, I wouldn't want to let you down."
Natsu placed a hand on each of their shoulders. "You've never let me down, and you never will."
"Now…" Natsu said, his tone shifting, Gray and Gajeel already knowing what was coming, "Time for the war to start." Natsu took a few steps towards the exit, Gray and Gajeel following closely behind him. "Let's see what you will do, Zeref."
As they made their way out of the arena, the atmosphere grew more intense, the weight of the upcoming battle settling on them.
Close to the Island on the Cube
Close to the island on the cube, the room was quiet. They knew from Natsu and Seilah that Zeref WAS on the island, and a confrontation with him was imminent. This time, Mundus was watching, so Zeref couldn't afford to disobey him.
Erza was talking with Ava and Scha, Roxy was with Evelynn, Natasha was with Sera and Sylvie. Wendy was home, the barriers having been further improved ever since the invasion. If somehow they were to be broken or affected by unknown magic, the entire land would be transported to Avalon, just like the Realm of Shadows was. Their home was now the safest place, even if they were not there.
"There they are," said Nero, looking towards the sea. Kyoka and Mard approached him.
"I see them, send a message for Lord Natsu," Mard commanded.
"Yes, Lord," responded a demon.
Grimoire Heart Base
All of the Seven Kin were gathered along with Hades and Bluenote.
Azuma, a tall man with tan skin and thick brown hair and a beard, stood amongst them.
Rustyrose, a fairly tall and lanky young man with silver-colored hair in a pompadour style and designer glasses, exuded an air of confidence.
Caprico, a tall humanoid with many goat-like traits, including short brownish-white fur covering his body and a Celestial Spirit, wore a three-piece suit.
Kain, a huge overweight man with chalk-white skin and black hair, loomed over the group.
Zancrow, a young man with spiky blond hair and red eyes, wore distinctive armor exposing his right chest and shoulder, where his guild mark tattoo was located.
Meredy, a young girl of short stature with short pink hair and bright green eyes, donned a tight purple leotard with brownish thigh-high boots and a red cape with golden lining.
Next was Ultear, who sported battle attire as she sat cruelly close to Hades and Bluenote Stinger.
Hades then spoke, "It is time. Today, we will crush Fairy Tail and resurrect Zeref. Today, the current age of man ENDS!" he declared, attempting to boost morale.
Many members cheered, but the young girl, Meredy, asked, "Master, what of E.N.D.? Is he on the island?" Her question silenced the entire guild, as they were all aware of E.N.D. Some members scoffed arrogantly, believing they would be able to defeat E.N.D.
Hades was silent for a moment, his thoughts consumed by the implications of Meredy's question. E.N.D., the ultimate demon created by Zeref himself, was a force to be reckoned with, and his presence on Tenrou Island could tip the scales of their battle significantly.
Before Hades could respond, Zancrow stepped forward, his arrogance palpable. "E.N.D.? Didn't look like much to me. A demon he may be, but I can slay gods!" he boasted, his voice dripping with overconfidence.
Hades regarded Zancrow with a measured gaze, his expression unreadable. While he appreciated Zancrow's bravado, he knew better than to underestimate the threat posed by E.N.D. Regardless of their individual strengths, facing a demon of such magnitude would require careful planning and coordination.
"We will deal with E.N.D. if and when the time comes," Hades finally spoke, his voice commanding authority. "For now, our focus remains on Fairy Tail. Do not let your guard down. Our victory depends on it."
Ultear and Bluenote approached Hades. "I assume you have a plan for E.N.D.?" asked Bluenote.
Hades nodded. "Yes, it's not the first time I've dealt with demons. It would be foolish to face him directly. There is something I have been working on for a long time, especially for Etherious Demons."
Bluenote spoke again, "Besides E.N.D., Seilah Dragneel along with Gildarts Clive and Makarov pose a threat."
Hades agreed with a solemn nod. "Yes, they do."
However, Ultear had her own schemes brewing inside her head. "E.N.D. showed the ability to manipulate time... He is supposed to be stronger than Lord Zeref. Perhaps I should attempt to persuade him... But he knows I was responsible for Jellal trying to kill his wife," she thought, weighing her options carefully.
Back on The Island
The exam continued on the island as if they were unaware of the impending war. Meanwhile, Natsu began to search for Zeref, while Gildarts decided to confront Mest.
Approaching Mest slowly, Gildarts spoke in a low tone, "We need to talk, Rat..."
Mest attempted to maintain his composure. "Rat? Gildarts, what are you talking about? I am Mest, a member of-"
"Save it," Gildarts interrupted sharply. "Do you really think you can manipulate our memories? The council is getting more stupid than I thought. Haven't you learned from Natsu defeating two of your Wizard Saints that you're not worth shit to us? Do you want to give him a reason to erase you from Earthland?" His words dripped with anger and annoyance.
Mest bristled at Gildarts's words, his composure slipping further as his anger flared. "You think you're above the law? The Magic Council rules all!"
Gildarts's scoff cut through Mest's defiance. "The Council works hand in hand with the Balam Alliance, and we have proof," he retorted, his tone dripping with disdain. "Mind your own business, and we might still let you continue. Cross us, and you'll be stomped like the annoying bug you are."
Mest's jaw clenched, his eyes flashing with frustration and indignation. "You're bluffing," he spat, though there was a hint of uncertainty in his voice.
Gildarts's expression remained stoic, his gaze unwavering. "Believe what you will," he replied coolly. "But remember, you've only seen a small part of what we are capable off, Do not overstep."
Gildarts's words hung heavy in the air as Mest grappled with the weight of their implications. He could sense the underlying threat beneath Gildarts's calm demeanor, and it sent a chill down his spine.
For a moment, Mest's defiant facade wavered, replaced by a flicker of doubt. But then, with a steely resolve, he straightened his posture and met Gildarts's unwavering gaze.
"We'll see about that," Mest retorted, his voice tinged with defiance. "But mark my words, Gildarts Clive, this isn't over."
With that, Mest turned on his heel and strode away, his mind racing with thoughts of retaliation and strategy.
With Elfman and Evergreen
Elfman and Evergreen found themselves confronting a youthful man garbed in black robes, his dark hair framing piercing black eyes.
Stepping forward, Elfman demanded, "Who are you?" The man responded with a chuckle.
Raising his hand, he conjured a dark orb of magic. "You should show more respect, brat," he retorted, before launching the orb towards them. But before it could strike, Natsu intervened, deflecting it with a swift motion.
The man's grin widened as Elfman attempted to speak again, only to be cut off by Natsu's commanding voice. "Leave," he ordered, dismissing any further dialogue.
Advancing towards the man, Natsu smirked. "400 years, and you're still dressed like that? It's way out of fashion, Zeref. Try something new," he quipped.
Identified now as Zeref the Black Mage, the man smiled. "Why change something that works?" he replied.
"You sound like a human," Natsu remarked dryly.
Zeref chuckled. "Do I? Well, perhaps you have a point, brother."
"Of course, I do," responded Natsu.
The brothers shared a moment of laughter, followed by a tense silence. Suddenly, they exchanged blows, Zeref blocking Natsu's punch just as Natsu blocked his.
"Not bad, not bad at all," said Natsu, a hint of amusement in his voice. The brothers separated.
"Not yet," said Zeref.
"Scared?" taunted Natsu.
Zeref responded, "Well, I want to see how you will handle him."
"The idiots from Grimoire?" asked Natsu, "They are not a problem."
Zeref smiled, "Oh, I'm sure of that, but it's not them I was talking about. Hope you're ready… King of all Dragons, you will be challenged shortly."
Natsu's eyes narrowed. "Are you going to join, or just watch? Did Mundus turn you into a bitch like he is?" Natsu attempted to taunt both Zeref and Mundus, whom he was certain was listening.
"So you are aware of Mundus? How?" asked Zeref to keep the facade; this was the first time they saw each other in 400 years, he assured the conversation from months ago remained concealed from Mundus.
"Why are you surprised?" asked Natsu, a hint of amusement in his tone.
Zeref spoke once more before departing, "It matters not; this changes nothing."
"We will see," responded Natsu.
Zeref disappeared in a tornado of black feathers, mirroring Natsu's own method of vanishing.
Natsu gazed up at the sky. "Is… he coming here?" he wondered aloud.
A voice echoed in his mind.
'Tis time for the false king to remember his place, 'tis your time to prove thyself worthy of transcending, young king."
Natsu nodded. This was the second time the crown had spoken to him.
The Crown of Dragons possessed a will of its own, along with a level of sentience. It occasionally communicated with the current King.
If Acnologia came here, Natsu will give him the fight he never had.
In a different part of the island
In a different corner of the island, Gajeel and Gray sensed the arrival of the Grimoire and swiftly parted ways.
Gajeel moved cautiously towards two figures - one resembling a humanoid Brown Goat, and the other a humanoid Chicken.
"Well, well, what've we got here? Dinner already?" Gajeel jeered, his voice dripping with sarcasm.
The two dark mages were caught off guard by Gajeel's sudden appearance and taunt.
"Who are you?!" demanded the goat.
"I should be askin' you the same, but I've already decided you're gonna be my next meal... after you spill everythin' you know about Grimoire. It's non-negotiable," Gajeel stated, his expression darkening.
Without hesitation, the chicken lunged at him. Gajeel effortlessly retaliated, delivering a powerful backhand that sent the chicken hurtling through the trees, ribs broken and barely conscious.
"Wanna try again?" Gajeel challenged, his tone daring any further resistance.
Gajeel's challenge hung in the air, his stance firm and unyielding as he awaited their response. The humanoid goat's eyes narrowed, weighing their options carefully.
"We are members of Grimoire Heart, and you will regret crossing us," the goat growled, summoning dark magic to surround them.
Gajeel's smirk widened, his resolve unyielding. "Bring it on," he dared, preparing himself for the inevitable clash.
The ensuing battle was nothing short of a massacre; Gajeel proved far superior to his adversaries. With ease, he seized the goat by its neck, asserting his dominance.
"Numbers, names, and reasons, now," Gajeel commanded, his tone brooking no argument.
The goat struggled against Gajeel's grip, but the Metal Dragon King's strength was overwhelming. Gasping for breath, the goat yielded to Gajeel's demand.
Letting his aura swap out Gajeel commanded again ''Talk.''
The goat and chicken did not wait any more and began to spill….everything ... .even their personal secrets … like pissing the bed.
With Seilah
Seilah waited calmly on a rock, her demeanor composed and unwavering.
Suddenly, Azuma materialized in front of her, expecting a reaction that never came. Seilah remained unmoved, her amethyst eyes fixed upon him.
"Seilah Dragneel, the Amethyst-Eyed Midnight Queen, wife of Silver-Eye... of E.N.D..." Azuma began, his voice laced with caution.
Seilah arched a brow. "It surprises me that you still choose to come here, even knowing of my husband," she remarked, her tone tinged with amusement.
Azuma bristled, charging his magic power as he spoke. "If E.N.D. chooses to stand against us, he will be taken care of, as will you," he declared with determination.
Azuma -Full Power- 703.500
Seilah scoffed at his bravado.
"For someone facing their demise, you seem remarkably unbothered," Azuma observed, his anger evident.
Seilah's scoff transformed into a giggle, then into full-blown hysterical laughter. When she finally regained her composure, she spoke with a chilling confidence.
"Do you truly believe you stand a chance?" she questioned, her tone dripping with mockery.
"You are not E.N.D.," Azuma growled, his frustration mounting.
"And you think a wife of E.N.D. would be anything but superior to the likes of you mere mortals?" Seilah retorted, her gaze unwavering.
Seilah's words hung in the air, each syllable carrying a weight of undeniable power. Azuma hesitated, his confidence wavering under the force of her unwavering demeanor.
"You may have power, Seilah Dragneel, but you are not invincible," Azuma countered, his voice tinged with a hint of uncertainty.
Seilah's eyes narrowed, a predatory glint flickering within their depths. "Perhaps," she conceded, her tone betraying none of the doubt that lingered in Azuma's words. "But I am more than capable of handling the likes of you. "
As she spoke, Seilah allowed a sliver of her power to be felt, causing Azuma to struggle for breath.
"I am Seilah Dragneel, chosen maid of E.N.D., a Greater Demon soon to be an Arch Demon. I am a Queen," she declared with authority and malice, her voice carrying a weight that left Azuma trembling.
Seilah Dragneel -Base Form Suppressed- 30.000.000
Azuma's mind raced in disbelief. "What!? How can such power exist?! I've never felt this much power! If she's this strong, how strong is E.N.D.? ... By the gods… what have we gotten ourselves into?" he thought, panic setting in.
As if sensing his thoughts, Seilah's gaze hardened, her eyes ablaze with an otherworldly fury. "You brought this upon yourselves," she stated coldly, her voice cutting through the chaos. "You dared to challenge the might of a Demon Queen, and now you shall face the consequences."
Seilah slowly brought her open palm towards Azuma, her movements deliberate and menacing.
Panic gripped Azuma as he realized his impending demise, unable to muster even the slightest resistance. "No! Please!" he pleaded, desperation evident in his voice.
Seilah remained silent, her focus unwavering as she uttered a single phrase "Rune of Annihilation."
With that command, Seilah etched a rune of pure destruction in her palm, unleashing a beam of dark energy that surged towards Azuma, obliterating him completely without mercy or hesitation.
On the Grimoire Airship
Hades was stunned, Azuma was the first of their kin to leave the island, yet he had been killed within mere minutes. He could sense a massive power emanating from the ship.
"Did- did Azuma find himself face to face with E.N.D.?" Stinger asked, his voice trembling with disbelief.
Hades hesitated before responding, his tone heavy with uncertainty. "...No, that was Seilah Dragneel, one of E.N.D.'s wives," he revealed.
"His wife holds such power?! What of him?" Stinger inquired, his concern evident.
Hades could only shake his head. "...I... do not know," he admitted, a sense of foreboding settling over him.
Hades got up from his chair, ''... Makarov is here, i will go great him.''
Outside
Makarov waited patiently on the beach, his gaze fixed on the approaching airship. As Hades emerged, Makarov's form expanded, thanks to his Giant Magic, but Hades remained unfazed by the display.
Makarov's presence was imposing, his Giant Magic enhancing his stature as he stood resolute against Hades. The air crackled with anticipation as the two powerful wizards faced off on the beach.
Hades, though taken aback by Makarov's knowledge of his true identity, remained composed, his confidence unwavering. "Makarov Dreyar, you look old, boy," he taunted, attempting to goad a reaction from his opponent.
But Makarov's response was as firm as it was resounding. "Mavis would be disappointed in you, Precht," he retorted, his words cutting through the tension with the weight of truth.
Hades's expression darkened, a flicker of emotion betraying his stoic facade. "So, you know, eh? You still want to fight me then?" he challenged, his voice laced with defiance.
Makarov's response was swift and unequivocal. "One of your strongest has already been killed. Do you think you can win this?" he countered, his resolve unyielding.
Frustration boiled within Hades as he grappled with the reality of their situation. With a growl, he commanded the airship to unleash the full force of the Jupiter Canon. But Makarov, with a gesture of his hand, intercepted the attack effortlessly, his mastery of magic on full display.
Acknowledging Makarov's strength, Hades conceded, "I see you've earned your title as Wizard Saint."
Makarov, undeterred, began to channel his magic, the energy of Fairy Law surging within him. "Leave," he commanded, his voice carrying the weight of authority.
Recognizing the perilous situation, Hades mirrored Makarov's stance, a silent acknowledgment of the potential devastation their spells could unleash upon each other. The standoff persisted, each wizard poised for the next move, the fate of the battle hanging in the balance.
The Wizard canceled the spells , immediately Hades attacked Makarov with a kick to his giant form, dispelling the Giant magic and sending him towards the forest below where they continued the fight.
With Juvia
Juvia found herself challenged by a child, likely the same age as Wendy.
"And you are?" Juvia asked, her tone gentle yet authoritative.
"Meredy," the girl responded, immediately launching blades of magic towards Juvia.
Juvia effortlessly dispelled them with a casual flick of her hand.
"Now, now... a bit harsh for a sweet-looking girl like you, dear. How about we talk calmly?" Juvia suggested, using her Mermaid powers to soothe the girl.
Meredy appeared conflicted. "I... No, I must do this for Ultear!"
As Meredy prepared for battle, Juvia sighed, realizing the futility of trying to reason with her opponent.
With Lucy
Lucy gazed towards the humanoid goat, recognizing him instantly. Leo had warned her about him before her contract was broken.
"I am going to tear you apart and shatter your soul," Lucy threatened, her voice laced with determination.
The Possessed spirit began to taunt, but before he could finish, Lucy unleashed a powerful kick, sending him flying away with tremendous force.
With Gray
Gray walked slowly through the midst of a frozen small army, his steps deliberate and calculated. With a mere flick of his wrist, he shattered all of the frozen soldiers, leaving behind a trail of icy remnants.
"Quite... cold, don't you think?" a voice remarked.
Rustyrose presented himself, but before he could say another word, Gray delivered a swift punch to his stomach, causing him to spit blood.
"We have more important things to do than deal with you losers," Gray declared, his tone icy and dismissive.
"True Ice Dragon's Frostbite!" Gray unleashed his magic, encasing Rustyrose in a thick layer of ice within seconds. Panic filled Rustyrose's eyes as he struggled against the freezing grip, but it was futile. Soon, he was completely frozen... and then shattered into countless pieces.
Back with Natsu
Natsu walked through the forest, a tune whistling from his lips as he strolled leisurely. Suddenly, he halted and lazily glanced to his left, where he spotted a young man with blond hair and piercing red eyes. There was an intriguing aura of magic emanating from him.
Zancrow, undeterred by Natsu's casual attitude, approached with swagger, his red eyes gleaming with superiority. "You E.N.D.?" he questioned, his voice dripping with arrogance.
Natsu's response was casual yet loaded with amusement. "That's me," he confirmed, his tone light.
Zancrow's smirk widened as he assessed Natsu's appearance. "You don't look like much," he remarked dismissively, underestimating the true extent of Natsu's power.
Natsu's smirk only grew wider, his confidence unshaken by Zancrow's boastful words. "Beautiful last words," he quipped, his tone carrying both amusement and a subtle warning.
"Hah! You think you can beat me? You may be a demon, but I am a God Slayer! I can easily kill a demon!" Zancrow declared confidently, his arrogance evident.
Natsu's amusement only seemed to deepen at Zancrow's boastful declaration. "A god slayer, huh?" he mused, a playful glint in his eyes. "More like a fake one."
"The hell did you just say?" Zancrow demanded, his anger flaring.
"So you're not only a fake but also deaf? Are you stupid too? What's next? Trying to kill me with fire while shouting about 'it was the gods who gave fire to humanity'?" Natsu retorted, his tone laced with sarcasm.
Natsu's words hit Zancrow like a blow to the gut, his anger boiling over at the insinuation of being called fake. "You little punk!" he roared, flames erupting around him in a display of his power. "I'll show you what a real god slayer can do!"
Natsu remained unfazed, his smirk widening as he prepared for the battle ahead. "Bring it on, 'god slayer'," he taunted, ready to put Zancrow's claims to the test.
Zancrow rushed forward, his fist engulfed in black flames with a gray tint. But Natsu easily deflected him, sending him flying back.
Undeterred, Zancrow unleashed his first spell, "Fire God's Bellow!" A blast of fire hurtled towards Natsu, who made no effort to dodge. Instead, he devoured the flames with ease.
"What? This wasn't supposed to happen! Gods are the strongest! How can a demon eat my flames?!" Zancrow shouted in disbelief.
Natsu chuckled, shaking his head. "You don't even understand how higher magic works? So disappointing."
"What do you mean by that?" Zancrow demanded, confusion evident in his voice.
Natsu explained, his tone matter-of-fact. "Dragons are naturally elemental beings, while gods are conceptual. Dragon Elemental magic is superior to basic elemental god magic. Only gods like Thor, Zeus, can surpass most dragons in elemental ability because they are the top of the gods. Simple fire god magic like yours is inferior, lacking any divinity."
Zancrow's expression twisted with frustration and anger as Natsu's words sunk in. "You're just talking nonsense!" he spat, his flames intensifying in response to his growing rage. "I'll show you the true power of a god slayer!"
But Natsu remained unfazed, his confidence unshaken. "If you want to keep embarrassing yourself, be my guest," he quipped, ready to face whatever Zancrow threw at him.
