Hello everyone, Draco here with another exciting chapter! In this installment, the Dragon Slayers have turned the page on their past and are now focused on forging a path toward a stronger future. As they strive to reach their full potential, they remain determined to uncover the truth behind the manipulations and injustices they faced. Who was responsible for framing them for crimes they didn't commit? As they seek answers, they also set their sights on becoming the strongest warriors they can be, driven by the pursuit of both power and justice.

In the mean time as well the younger slayers will also be using the time to get to know each other on a more personal level since they are in the adolescence years and they will bond over their shared experiences as well with getting into the more personal stuff.

Also as another note a new character will be introduced into the story and it will be Draco Fangs resident bookworm

Emma Frostsoul (21 Years old)

Disclaimer: I don't own Fairy Tail or its content. Hiro Mashima owns all. Support the official release.

Renewal

December 9th, Year X787

-The town of Rose-

After four hours of travel, the slayers finally reached the outskirts of Rose, a modest town nestled between rolling hills and dense woods. The sun still hung high in the sky, casting a warm orange glow over the cobblestone streets and simple wooden houses. It wasn't a grand city, but it had its own charm—a peaceful, quiet place compared to the bustling energy of Magnolia.

"Well, we made it," Natsu said, stretching his arms behind his head as they walked into town. "Not bad for a day's work."

"Yeah, not bad at all," Gajeel grunted, though his tone was far from enthusiastic. His arms were crossed, and his steel-gray eyes scanned the area. "Let's just get this job over with."

The group stopped in the town square, where a fountain bubbled quietly at the center. Wendy, always the peacemaker, stepped forward. "Why don't you two go meet the client? The rest of us can wander around for a bit and relax."

"Fine by me," Natsu muttered. "Let's get it done."

"Ugh, whatever," Gajeel grumbled, shooting a side glance at Natsu before the two reluctantly began walking toward the client's house on the far side of town. Neither looked thrilled to be working together again.

As the two disappeared down a narrow street, Wendy let out a small sigh, watching them go. "Those two never change, do they?"

Sting chuckled, leaning against the edge of the fountain. "Nope. Natsu and Gajeel are like oil and water. Always at each other's throats."

"Can't stand each other, yet somehow they always end up working together," Rogue added, shaking his head.

Wendy smiled softly as she took a seat on the fountain's edge beside Sting and Rogue. "Yeah, they're rivals, but it's more than just that. It's like they have to constantly prove themselves to one another. If Natsu does something, Gajeel has to do it better. And if Gajeel makes a move, Natsu can't let it slide."

Lindsey tilted her head in thought. "You think they'd be tired of competing all the time."

"Not those two," Wendy said with a gentle laugh. "It's like... a part of who they are. Neither one will back down, no matter what. I guess it's their way of pushing each other to get stronger, but sometimes it's exhausting just watching them."

Happy fluttered down beside Wendy, landing with a sigh. "And don't even get me started when they're fighting for real. It's like watching two wild animals going at it!"

Carla, ever the composed one, crossed her arms. "Their rivalry is intense, but it also seems to motivate them. Still, I wouldn't mind a bit of peace and quiet now and then."

The group fell into a comfortable silence for a moment, watching the townspeople go about their business. The market square buzzed with activity as vendors called out to potential customers, and children ran through the streets, laughing and playing. It was a serene scene, one that contrasted sharply with the chaos that often surrounded Natsu and Gajeel when they were together.

"I think they respect each other deep down," Wendy said after a while, breaking the silence. "Even if they won't admit it."

Raven, who had been listening quietly, nodded. "It's a weird kind of respect. Like they're two sides of the same coin. But yeah, it does make things... interesting."

Sting smirked. "Well, at least it keeps things from getting boring."

Wendy laughed softly again. "Yeah, I guess you're right about that."

-In the meantime-

As the group wandered through the quiet streets of Rose, waiting for Natsu and Gajeel to return from meeting their client, they found themselves reminiscing about the past three years of adventures. The sun had dipped lower in the sky, casting a golden light over the town, and the lively market had begun to wind down. Vendors were packing up their wares, and the scent of dinner wafted from nearby homes.

Sting was the first to break the silence. "Man, can you believe it's been three years since we all started traveling together? Feels like a lifetime ago."

Wendy nodded with a smile. "It really does. So much has happened since then. We've all grown so much... though Natsu and Gajeel's rivalry? That hasn't changed at all."

Rogue chuckled softly. "If anything, it's gotten worse. Those two can't go five minutes without challenging each other to something—fighting monsters, arm wrestling, eating contests... you name it."

"Remember that time in Oakstead?" Lindsey chimed in with a grin. "When they almost leveled an entire forest because Gajeel didn't believe Natsu could take down that B-class wyvern alone?"

Wendy covered her mouth, stifling a giggle. "Oh yes! Gajeel swooped in right after Natsu finished off the wyvern, claiming it wasn't a 'real win' unless Natsu could beat him too. They fought for hours until both of them collapsed."

Sting shook his head, laughing. "And of course, they both swore they won. Typical."

Rogue leaned against a nearby lamp post, smirking. "I think the real winner was the forest. Surprised it survived with those two tearing through it."

Raven, who had been quiet up until now, snorted. "I'll never forget that. It was a simple job, and those two turned it into a spectacle. We had to help clean up their mess afterward, and they just laughed it off like it was nothing."

"They're like kids," Lindsey added with a grin. "Big, destructive kids."

Wendy shook her head fondly. "That's just how they are. Their rivalry has pushed them both to get stronger, but sometimes I wish they'd focus more on teamwork."

"Teamwork?" Sting said, raising an eyebrow. "Good luck getting those two to cooperate without throwing punches."

Rogue crossed his arms, his voice calm but amused. "Remember last year in Hearth City? When they both tried to prove who could defeat that guild of rogue mercenaries the fastest?"

Wendy couldn't help but laugh at the memory. "Oh, that was a disaster! Gajeel went after them head-on, and Natsu... well, he set half the street on fire."

"And don't forget the collateral damage," Sting said, smirking. "We ended up paying half our reward just to cover the repairs."

Lindsey chuckled. "At least the rogue mercenaries didn't stand a chance. They were more terrified of Natsu and Gajeel than they were of us."

"Who wouldn't be?" Raven added, shaking her head. "It's like watching two natural disasters competing to see who can cause the most destruction."

Despite the frustration they'd felt in the moment, there was an undeniable warmth in their laughter. The chaos Natsu and Gajeel often brought with them was a part of their dynamic, and though it led to headaches, it also made their journeys unforgettable.

Wendy, still smiling, glanced down the road where Natsu and Gajeel had gone. "Honestly, even with all their fighting, I think they respect each other more than either one would ever admit. They've pushed each other to become stronger—stronger than they ever would have been on their own."

"Yeah, but they'll never say that out loud," Sting replied, shaking his head. "To them, it's all about who's the best, who can win. But that's why we're here, right? To keep them from tearing each other apart."

Rogue chuckled. "We've got our work cut out for us."

Lindsey folded her arms with a grin. "It's exhausting sometimes, but I think we've all gotten stronger because of it. I mean, three years ago, none of us could've handled some of the jobs we've been on recently."

Raven nodded. "True. We've faced down some crazy monsters and mercenaries, but we've always made it through—together."

Sting stretched his arms, smirking as he looked around. "And with Natsu and Gajeel always trying to one-up each other, it keeps us on our toes. Who knows what kind of trouble they'll stir up next?"

Wendy laughed softly. "Knowing them, probably something explosive."

The group continued to talk, sharing more stories of their adventures and the countless times Natsu and Gajeel's rivalry had nearly spiraled out of control. But beneath the jokes and teasing, there was a deep sense of camaraderie that had grown between them over the years. They had faced countless challenges together, but no matter how difficult things became, they always knew they could rely on one another.

It was then the conversation got more personal when Lindsey leaned back against the fountain's stone edge, her arms crossed over her chest as she gazed up at the sky, her voice low and steady.

"I don't talk about it much, but I wasn't always part of a guild. I grew up alone—no family, no place to call home. It was just me and my survival instinct, scavenging from town to town. You learn to fight for every meal, every drop of water."

Raven, standing beside her, nodded solemnly. "Same here. Lost everyone when I was young. Being a Dragon Slayer didn't make it any easier. People didn't know what to do with us, so we had to fend for ourselves. I wandered for years, trying to survive." She paused, her voice softening with a trace of emotion. "But I wasn't always alone."

Lindsey turned to her, sharing a small, knowing smile. "Yeah, same. Before the wandering, there was Lustra—my dragon parent. The Silver Dragon. She found me when I was little, lost in a forest, terrified. She raised me, taught me everything I know. But I always called her the Lunar Dragon. There was something... peaceful about her, like the moon's light shining in the darkest night. She made me feel safe."

Raven glanced at Lindsey, the name of her dragon stirring something inside her. "For me, it was Yamestra. The Void Dragon. Or, as I liked to call her, the Abyss Dragon. She was… different. Dark, vast, and mysterious. She didn't comfort me the way Lustra sounds like she did for you, but she gave me strength. She taught me how to survive in the nothingness, how to be relentless. She was always there, a looming presence, like the abyss itself."

Sting, who had been listening quietly, his usual smugness softened by their words, furrowed his brow. "So... Lustra and Yamestra? Two dragons, and they just... left you? What happened?"

Lindsey's expression clouded over as she shifted uncomfortably. "One day, she was just... gone. No warning, no explanation. She always told me I had to be strong, to fight for what I believed in, but I never imagined she'd leave without a word. I spent years searching for her. I still wonder where she went."

Raven added, her voice quieter now, "Same with Yamestra. One moment, I was training with her in the depths of a shadowed valley. The next... she was gone. No goodbye. Just silence. After that, it was just me, wandering from place to place. I had to figure things out on my own."

Wendy, who sat nearby, felt a deep connection to their stories. She, too, had experienced the loss of her dragon, Grandeeney. "I understand," she said softly. "Dragons are like parents to us, and when they leave, it feels like a piece of us is missing. But... they must have had their reasons, right? Maybe they thought we were strong enough to handle the world without them."

Lindsey gave a small nod, though her eyes remained distant. "Maybe. But it doesn't change the fact that we were alone after that. I was just a kid, trying to survive in a world that didn't care about me. Then I met Raven."

Raven smiled faintly, glancing over at Lindsey. "We were both scavenging for food in some rundown village. I didn't trust her at first—didn't trust anyone back then. But we were the same, and we figured that out pretty quick. Two Dragon Slayers, both alone, both fighting to survive."

Lindsey continued, her voice softening. "At first, we were just surviving together. It wasn't about friendship or trust—it was about survival. But over time, we realized we needed each other. We became more than just companions. We became sisters. I never had a family before, not really, but with Raven... we've been through too much together to call it anything less than that."

Raven nodded in agreement, her voice filled with quiet conviction. "Yeah. After everything, we look out for each other. We've had to rely on one another for so long that now it's like we can't imagine not being together. The bond we share—it's not just friendship. It's blood. It's something only we can understand."

Wendy's heart warmed at their words, and she couldn't help but smile. "That's so special. You two went through all that together and came out of it stronger, like a real family."

Sting grinned, though his eyes held a certain respect. "You guys really are something else. The rest of us had guilds, or at least a place to call home. But you two? You made it on your own. That's some serious strength."

Lindsey shrugged, her lips quirking up in a small smile. "We had to. When you don't have anyone else, you make your own way. And now, here we are, part of Draco Fang, with all of you."

Raven leaned against the fountain beside her, a rare smile touching her lips. "Yeah. We might've started out alone, but now we're not. We've got a place. A family."

Sting, Wendy, and the others shared glances, feeling the weight of their words settle over them. There was something deeper than guild loyalty here—a bond forged in survival, in loss, and in strength.

As the group continued their stroll through the town of Rose, the chatter naturally shifted toward deeper, more personal topics. Wendy, Lindsey, and Raven, feeling more comfortable with their fellow slayers, decided to ask about something that had been on their minds for a while.

"So," Lindsey began, glancing curiously at Sting and Rogue, "we've talked a lot about our own dragons, but you guys don't really mention yours much. What were Weisslogia and Skiadrum like?"

Sting raised an eyebrow, caught off guard by the question, but then gave a thoughtful smile.

"Weisslogia, huh? Well, he wasn't just any dragon—he was the White Dragon. The guy was all about honor and strength, but not the kind you get just by swinging fists. He always told me that real strength comes from knowing when not to fight. He was a pretty wise old dragon. Didn't take any crap either."

Wendy leaned in, intrigued. "He sounds a lot like Grandine. Always so calm and wise, even in tough situations."

Sting nodded, a fond look crossing his face. "Yeah, he was like that. Never let me get too full of myself, even though I tried to show him how strong I was. When he disappeared, though... it left a pretty big hole. I think that's why I started pushing myself so hard. To prove that I was worthy of the strength he left me."

Wendy smiled gently, knowing the pain of losing her own dragon all too well. "It must've been tough. But you've come so far since then."

Rogue, who had been silent, looked out at the town as if lost in thought. His quiet demeanor caught Raven's attention, and she turned to him. "What about Skiadrum? I always wondered... you don't talk about her much."

Rogue blinked, pulled from his thoughts, and gave a small, almost hesitant smile. "Skiadrum... she wasn't like Weisslogia. She was the Shadow Dragon, after all. She taught me how to embrace the darkness, how to control the shadows. But she wasn't cold, like you might expect. She was... quiet, but protective."

"A female dragon?" Lindsey asked, her eyes lighting up with interest. "What was she like?"

Rogue seemed to relax slightly as he spoke, a rare warmth entering his voice. "She was fierce in her own way, but it wasn't about raw power with her. It was about strategy, precision. She believed that true strength came from using the shadows to protect, not just destroy. Skiadrum always told me that being quiet and unseen was sometimes more powerful than being loud and obvious. It's why I don't talk much—I'm more like her in that way."

Raven, listening intently, gave a soft smile. "I think that's kind of beautiful in a way. Shadows can be comforting too, especially when they're used to protect."

"Exactly," Rogue nodded, appreciative of the understanding. "Skiadrum believed that darkness wasn't something to fear, but something to control. She... she wasn't affectionate, but she cared in her own way. When she disappeared, I felt like I lost not just my dragon, but my guide."

Wendy looked at Rogue, admiration clear in her eyes. "That must've been hard. But you've grown into your own strength now, just like she would've wanted."

The conversation paused for a moment, allowing them all to reflect on what they'd learned about each other. It was rare for them to talk so openly about their dragons, but it felt good to share these experiences, to understand one another on a deeper level.

"So," Lindsey finally spoke up with a teasing smile, "what about those Exceeds of yours? Lector and Frosh. They seem like an odd pair."

Sting chuckled, grateful for the lighter topic. "Lector's a scrappy little guy. Found him in a back alley trying to fight off a couple of thugs. I stepped in to help, but he didn't want saving. We've been inseparable ever since. He's got more guts than brains sometimes, but he's loyal."

"And Frosh?" Wendy asked, glancing at Rogue.

Rogue's smile softened even further as he thought of his small, amphibious Exceed. "Frosh found me, actually. He was lost in a forest, scared out of his mind, and I... I couldn't just leave him there. He didn't need to be strong or brave; he just needed someone to be there for him. We've been together ever since."

Raven chuckled softly. "Frosh and Rogue, quiet and protective. It makes sense."

Wendy joined in the laughter, feeling the warmth of their growing bond as a group. Despite their vastly different upbringings, they all shared something deeper—their dragons had left them with more than just magic; they'd given them purpose, companions, and a sense of belonging that had brought them together now.

"So," Lindsey said with a grin, "I guess we're all a bit like family now, huh? Dragon slayers who lost their dragons but found something else instead."

Sting crossed his arms, a smirk on his face. "Yeah, dysfunctional as we are, I guess that's what we are. A ragtag family of dragon slayers and Exceeds. Who'd have thought?"

Rogue simply nodded, a soft smile on his face, while Wendy beamed, feeling the unity between them all grow stronger. Even as their journey continued, and more challenges awaited them, it was moments like these that reminded them of what they had gained.

Wendy sat down with her new guildmates, feeling the weight of the stories they had already shared. It was her turn now, and she could feel Carla's reassuring presence beside her. She took a deep breath, knowing the tale she was about to tell carried a lot of emotional weight.

"I guess I'll start from the beginning," Wendy began, her voice soft but steady. "It all started with Grandine, my dragon parent. She was the Sky Dragon, and she raised me, taught me everything I know about magic, especially healing magic. She was kind and wise, and I always felt so safe with her. But one day, just like that... she vanished. No explanation, no warning. I was alone."

Her voice faltered for a moment as the memories resurfaced. "I wandered for a long time, lost and not knowing what to do. Then, I met Mystogan. He found me, wandering in the woods, completely directionless. He didn't say much, but he gave me guidance. He helped me find Cait Shelter, my first guild. That's where I met Carla too."

Wendy smiled faintly as she looked at Carla, her companion. "Carla became my best friend, my constant. Even though I had the guild, it was Carla who truly helped me feel like I wasn't alone. We did everything together. But Cait Shelter wasn't what I thought it was. I later learned it was... well, not real. The whole guild was created as a way to fulfill a purpose, to defeat Nirvana. When that purpose was fulfilled, the guild disappeared."

Her eyes welled up, but she wiped away the tears before they could fall. "But then, I met Natsu, Gray, Lucy, and Erza. They were on the same mission as me, trying to stop the Oración Seis. It was... overwhelming at first. I was young and not as experienced as they were, but they welcomed me, made me feel like I was part of something bigger."

Wendy's voice grew warmer as she spoke of her time with Fairy Tail. "After that, I officially joined Fairy Tail, and everything changed. I had found a true family—people who accepted me for who I was. It was the best feeling in the world. I was surrounded by the strongest wizards, and all I wanted was to make them proud, to protect the guild like they protected me."

Her tone shifted as she continued. "But it wasn't always easy. One of the biggest adventures we had was traveling to Edolas, another world where magic was controlled differently. It was there we learned about the Exceeds and their origins. That's when we met the other versions of ourselves. It was strange, seeing alternate versions of Natsu, Erza, and even myself. But we got through it together, and when we returned, we were closer than ever."

Wendy's expression darkened as she got to the harder part of her story.

"Everything was going well until… until the day we were accused of crimes we didn't commit. Someone framed us, and we were banished from Fairy Tail—our own home. The accusations came out of nowhere, and suddenly everything we had worked for, everything we had built, was torn apart. I'll never forget the moment we were exiled, driven away by those who were once our friends."

Her hands clenched into fists, the anger and pain of that moment still fresh in her heart. "I still don't know who did it, but I know one thing for sure: we were framed, and I want to find out who was responsible. Whoever did this took away everything from us—our guild, our family. That's why we're here now, trying to clear our names, trying to find the truth. We didn't deserve to be treated like criminals."

Wendy looked around at her companions, her voice filled with determination. "We've been on the run ever since. But no matter what, I know we'll find out who's behind this. I believe in us. I believe we can prove that we were wrongfully accused and clear our names."

There was a brief silence as her words sank in. Wendy's heart ached from the memories, but she felt a flicker of hope as she looked at her friends. Despite everything, she knew she wasn't alone anymore. They had all suffered, but together, they could take on whatever came next.

"We've been through so much," Wendy added softly, her voice trembling slightly, "but as long as we stick together, I believe we'll make it through this, too."

Wendy wasn't finished as she took a deep breath, her emotions swirling as she reflected on the difficult journey she'd been through. But amid the pain and uncertainty, there was also a sense of gratitude that had grown stronger over time. She smiled softly, looking at her new guildmates, her new family.

"I know it hasn't been easy," she continued, her voice carrying a warmth that hadn't been there before, "but despite everything, I'm thankful for what we have now. After everything we lost, finding each other has given me hope again. It wasn't just about the guild or the missions—it's about the bonds we've made."

Her eyes glanced over Sting, Rogue, Lindsey, Raven, and her fellow Exceeds, each of them part of this new chapter in her life. "Even though it's hard to think about the past, I realize how lucky we are to have found a new family here, with Draco Fang. It's different, but... in a good way. We have each other's backs, just like we did in Fairy Tail, and that's something I hold close to my heart."

Wendy's expression softened even more as she looked at Carla, then the others. "We've all had different experiences, different struggles. But now, we get to face the future together. I never thought I'd find a place where I could belong again after everything that happened, but here we are."

Her eyes glistened with unshed tears, but this time, they were tears of appreciation rather than sorrow. "So, even though we've been through some dark times, I wouldn't trade what we have now for anything. You're all my family, and I'm grateful for each and every one of you."

The air between them seemed to grow lighter, a sense of unity spreading through the group. Wendy's words resonated with all of them. They had all experienced loss in different ways, but together, they had found something more—a sense of belonging, and the strength to keep moving forward.

As the dragon slayers continued to reminisce and share stories about their dragons and past experiences, the Exceeds followed along, each observing their respective partners with keen interest. A short distance away from the group, Happy, Carla, Pantherlily, Lector, and Frosh found themselves in their own little gathering, watching the conversation unfold.

Happy, always the one to break the silence, stretched his paws and grinned mischievously. "Aye! Looks like everyone's getting all sentimental today, huh? All this talk about dragons… makes me hungry!"

Carla sighed, giving Happy a side-eye. "Honestly, Happy, is that all you ever think about? Food? We're having a moment here, and you're still focused on eating."

"Well," Happy said, puffing his chest out, "Natsu talks about Igneel sometimes when we are either out on missions or in the guild, but he doesn't get all mushy like this! I'm just saying, it's kinda funny seeing everyone so serious."

Carla crossed her arms, shaking her head. "You're impossible. It's not just about the dragons; they're bonding. Something I wouldn't expect you to understand."

Pantherlily, who had been leaning against a nearby tree, let out a deep chuckle. "They're dragon slayers, Carla. Of course, they're going to reminisce about their dragons. It's a huge part of who they are." He gave a brief glance toward Gajeel and the others. "But you're right. It's good to see them connecting more. They're a strong group, but this kind of bond will make them even stronger."

Happy perked up, walking closer to Pantherlily. "Yeah, but it's still somewhat cool to see them talking about their past, it's like having a camp out without all of the food and fish!"

Lector, always quick to defend his partner, crossed his small arms. "Hey, Sting's not getting all sappy, he's just telling it like it is. Weisslogia taught him to be strong and all. Not like Rogue, though—Rogue gets all deep about shadows and stuff."

Frosh, who had been sitting quietly in his little frog suit, tilted his head. "Fro thinks Rogue is nice. Shadows are soft."

Carla turned to the two of them, a gentle smile crossing her face. "Frosh has a point. Just because someone is quiet or reserved doesn't mean they're not strong. It's clear how much Skiadrum meant to Rogue. His bond with his dragon helped shape him, just like Weisslogia did for Sting."

"Yeah, yeah, I know," Lector muttered, scratching the back of his head. "It's just weird to hear Rogue talk so much. Usually, he just broods."

Frosh blinked slowly. "Frosh likes it when Rogue talks."

Pantherlily, amused by the back-and-forth, smirked. "Don't worry, Frosh. Rogue's always been like that. When he feels comfortable, he'll open up more. And it looks like he's finally starting to do that."

"Lily's right," Happy chimed in, flying up to do a little spin in the air. "Natsu doesn't talk about stuff unless he really trusts someone. So it's good, right? They're all getting closer."

Lector puffed out his chest proudly. "Well, Sting doesn't have that problem. He's always been open with me. We don't hide anything from each other. We're a team through and through."

Carla rolled her eyes, clearly unimpressed with Lector's boastfulness. "Yes, yes, Lector. We know. But this isn't a competition."

Lector, undeterred, grinned widely. "Sure it is! Everything's a competition when it comes down to who is the strongest!"

Frosh tilted his head again, confused. "Frosh doesn't like competitions."

Happy walked to to Frosh, placing a paw on his head. "Don't worry, Fro. Just let Lector and Sting think they're the best. We know they're not as cool as me and Natsu!"

"Happy, this isn't about you either," Carla reminded him, a bit exasperated.

Pantherlily nodded in agreement. "What really matters is that we all support our partners. Whether they're loud or quiet, sentimental or not, each one of them has their own way of growing stronger."

Lector, ever loyal, gave a firm nod. "Yep, and we're right there beside them. No matter what."

"Frosh thinks we're all strong together," Frosh said softly, his usual innocence shining through.

Carla smiled at Frosh's words. "Yes, we are. And it's important we stay that way."

With the conversation between the Exceeds winding down, they watched their partners with renewed affection. Despite their different personalities and methods, the bond between the dragon slayers and their Exceeds was undeniable.

They were all in this together, and no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them side by side—dragons, Exceeds, and all.

..

..

..

Just as Wendy finished speaking, the sound of heavy footsteps approached from behind, and soon, Natsu and Gajeel came into view. Gajeel wore a deep scowl, rubbing the back of his neck in frustration. "Finally!" he grumbled, his voice filled with relief. "I couldn't stand being around Salamander for another minute. That client dragged it out way longer than needed!"

Natsu, equally annoyed, rolled his eyes as he walked up beside him. "Oh, like you were any fun to be around! Every second you were glaring at something like you wanted to punch it! If you didn't have that grumpy face the whole time, maybe things would've gone faster!"

Gajeel turned, his eyes narrowing dangerously. "Oh yeah? You think it's my fault, Flame Brain? Maybe if you didn't act like a rabid dog in front of the client, things would've gone smoother."

Natsu's fists clenched, flames licking at his knuckles as his temper flared. "Say that again, Metalhead, and see what happens!"

"I'll say it as many times as I want, you fire-breathing lizard!" Gajeel snapped, stepping closer, metal scales starting to form on his skin. "You wanna settle this here and now?"

Sting and Rogue exchanged glances, sighing in exasperation as they knew what was coming next. "Here they go again," Sting muttered, shaking his head. "Every time they finish a job, it's like watching two kids fight over a toy."

Rogue nodded silently, his eyes following the growing tension between the two elder slayers. "They're going to tear the whole town apart if we're not careful."

Wendy stepped forward, hands raised in a feeble attempt to calm them. "Guys, please, we just got here. Can't you wait until we're out of the town to fight?"

Lindsey crossed her arms, chuckling under her breath. "They never change, do they?"

Meanwhile, Raven kept a wary eye on the two, already seeing the sparks—both figurative and literal—beginning to fly between them. "At least wait until we're in a forest or something. You're going to destroy everything around here."

Happy flew overhead, watching with a smug grin. "Aye! Natsu always picks the best spots to start a fight. It's like his sixth sense!"

Carla huffed beside him, clearly unamused. "Sixth sense? More like no sense at all."

Frosh innocently watched from beside Rogue, tilting his head. "Is Natsu-san and Gajeel-san going to break the ground again?"

"Most likely," Pantherlily responded with a resigned sigh, gripping the hilt of his sword just in case things got out of hand.

Sting, despite his usual cocky demeanor, moved closer to Rogue, already knowing how intense these two could get. "Think we should step in?"

"Nah," Rogue answered calmly. "Let them tire themselves out. Just be ready to pull them apart when they start causing damage."

As Natsu and Gajeel squared off, muscles tensed and powers starting to spark, Wendy looked over at her friends with a nervous laugh. "They're always like this. It's been this way for years, ever since I joined Fairy Tail. They can't stand each other... but deep down, I think they respect each other more than they'd admit."

Lindsey raised an eyebrow, watching the escalating situation. "Is that what you'd call it?"

Raven shook her head with a grin. "I'd call it insanity. But I guess that's why they're Dragon Slayers."

As the tension between Natsu and Gajeel grew thicker, sparks crackling around Natsu's fists and Gajeel's metal scales shimmering in the sunlight, Wendy quickly realized something had to be done before things escalated any further.

Taking a deep breath, she stepped forward, her small but firm voice cutting through the noise. "Natsu, Gajeel, stop!" she said, her tone strong enough to make both slayers pause mid-argument. The others exchanged curious glances, watching as Wendy walked between them, her eyes fixed on Natsu.

"Natsu," she began, her expression serious but not without a hint of warmth, "I know you're itching to fight, but can you wait until we get back to Hearth City? You're not going to get out of this by tearing up the town. And I promise, when we do get back, I'll make you a special meal. You know, one of those *delicious* meat and flames combos that only the city has. The kind that'll make all this waiting totally worth it."

Natsu's fiery aura dimmed just a bit, and for a moment, his gaze flickered as if he was considering the offer. He crossed his arms, clearly trying to hide his excitement at the prospect of the tasty meal Wendy was promising.

"Wait, really?" Natsu asked, raising an eyebrow, though the hint of a smile tugged at his lips. "You're saying I can have a feast that's better than what we've had before?"

Wendy smiled, her eyes sparkling with determination as she nodded. "It'll be the best meal you've ever had, I promise. But only if you behave until we get back to Hearth City."

Gajeel, who had been standing there, arms crossed and looking irritated, let out a low growl but looked slightly amused by the exchange. He raised a hand, casually wiping the scowl off his face.

"Fine. I can wait for a good meal," he muttered, though his gruff tone made it clear he was still grumpy about the situation.

Natsu, still a bit grumpy but now clearly distracted by the prospect of Wendy's special meal, finally sighed and nodded. "Alright, alright. But this better be worth it! I want the tastiest meats and flames possible!"

Wendy gave him a reassuring smile, then turned to Gajeel with the same earnest look. "And Gajeel, if you could keep your cool too, I'll make sure you get a little extra too and I'll include the best iron i can find for you portion of the food."

Gajeel grumbled but seemed to relent, his expression softening slightly. "Yeah, yeah, I'll hold off. Just don't think you can get me with a fancy meal like you did with him."

Sting, Rogue, and the others watched in amazement as Wendy managed to calm the situation with nothing but a promise of food. It was a rare sight to see Natsu and Gajeel backing off from their usual bickering, but Wendy's voice, filled with sincerity and the power of her promise, had done the trick.

Carla, flying beside Happy, glanced at the scene with a mix of admiration and surprise. "Wendy sure knows how to handle those two," she murmured.

"Yeah," Happy added, smiling as he watched Natsu's mood shift from intense anger to something more playful. "That's why she's the heart of this group!"

Wendy returned to her friends, feeling a sense of relief wash over her as Natsu and Gajeel started walking away, no longer on the brink of throwing down in the middle of town. "See? I told you all I could calm them down," Wendy said with a bright smile, feeling a warmth from the growing bond between them.

Raven chuckled. "I'll never get used to the way you manage them. I guess you're not just a powerful Dragon Slayer but also the peacekeeper of the group."

"I wouldn't go that far," Wendy replied modestly, but her eyes sparkled with a sense of accomplishment. "It's just that, well, I know them both pretty well."

Lindsey chuckled as well, her usual tough demeanor softening for a moment. "Well, I can say this much—you're definitely the one who keeps them in check. We need more people like you around."

As they walked on toward the next leg of their journey, with Natsu and Gajeel grudgingly content, the atmosphere lightened. The young slayers, bonded by shared experiences and new camaraderie, continued to talk and joke among themselves, knowing that, despite the hardships they'd faced, they were growing stronger and closer as a group.

-Whispering Woods-

As the group left the quiet town of Rose behind, the warmth of the setting sun gave way to a cool twilight breeze. The path back to Hearth City took them through a dense forest, known by the locals as the Whispering Woods. It was an old, sprawling expanse of towering trees and thick underbrush, rumored to be home to monsters of varying levels of danger—C-class to B-class. For seasoned Dragon Slayers like Natsu and his crew, it wasn't a place to be feared, but one to approach with caution.

"So, what do you think's waiting for us in there?" Sting asked, his voice casual but laced with curiosity as he walked beside Natsu.

"Nothing we can't handle," Natsu replied with a smirk, stretching his arms over his head. "Just a bunch of C-class monsters, maybe a few B-classes. We'll be through this forest in no time."

Gajeel cracked his knuckles. "Doesn't matter what class they are. If they get in my way, they're getting crushed."

Wendy walked a little behind the group, glancing around at the tall, swaying trees. The forest seemed peaceful, but she knew better. "Still, we shouldn't let our guard down. Whispering Woods has a reputation for a reason."

Happy fluttered next to Natsu, his little wings beating rapidly. "Yeah, Wendy's right! And I'm not in the mood to be a monster's dinner!"

Carla, ever the pragmatic one, gave Happy a stern look. "As long as you stay alert, there's no reason to worry. Let's focus on getting back to Hearth City safely."

As the group ventured deeper into the forest, the canopy thickened, casting long shadows that danced in the dimming light. The usual sounds of the wilderness—the chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves—were soon replaced by a tense silence, broken only by the occasional snap of a twig underfoot. The air here was different, charged with the presence of lurking beasts. Though unseen, the group could feel them—watchful eyes hidden within the dense foliage.

"Alright, stay sharp," Natsu said, his tone shifting into something more serious. "We're not alone."

No sooner had the words left his mouth than the ground rumbled faintly beneath them. From the shadows of the trees, a large creature emerged—a C-class beast resembling a massive boar, its tusks gleaming in the fading light. Its eyes glowed a dull red as it let out a low growl, pawing at the ground in warning.

"A boar?" Gajeel scoffed. "Easy."

He stepped forward, but before he could charge, two more beasts appeared—a pair of B-class wolves, their sleek, dark bodies blending into the forest. Their eyes gleamed with a predatory glint as they circled the group, their growls low and menacing.

"Looks like they travel in packs," Rogue muttered, his voice calm but alert. "Don't underestimate them."

Sting grinned, cracking his neck. "Finally, some action. Let's make this quick."

With a nod, the group sprang into motion. Natsu's fists ignited with flames as he charged the boar, meeting its tusks with a powerful punch that sent it skidding back into the trees. Gajeel, not to be outdone, took on one of the wolves, his iron-clad fists clashing with the beast's sharp claws. Meanwhile, Wendy and Rogue teamed up to handle the second wolf, their coordinated attacks keeping it at bay.

The battle was swift but intense. Despite their strength, the monsters of Whispering Woods proved to be a decent challenge, forcing the group to stay on their toes. The boar charged again, but Natsu easily dodged and retaliated with a fiery uppercut that knocked it out cold. Gajeel finished off his wolf with a devastating iron fist, while Wendy and Rogue, working in perfect sync, landed the final blow on the second wolf.

"Is that all you got?" Natsu called out to the forest, still fired up from the skirmish. "Come on, throw something harder at us!"

Wendy shook her head, a soft smile on her face. "Don't tempt fate, Natsu. We've still got a long way to go."

"Yeah, we don't need any more unnecessary fights," Rogue added, brushing some dirt off his sleeve.

Happy landed on Natsu's shoulder, a relieved look on his face. "I think we've had enough excitement for one day."

Carla, ever composed, nodded in agreement. "Let's keep moving. The sooner we're out of these woods, the better."

As they continued their journey through the forest, the atmosphere gradually relaxed. The occasional growl or rustle from a hidden creature reminded them to stay alert, but the group's mood had lightened. Conversation flowed more freely now, and they found themselves talking about everything from their last job to random musings about life.

"You know," Sting said, glancing up at the canopy of leaves, "I never really expected us to end up like this—working together as a team, after everything that happened."

Natsu nodded, though his gaze remained fixed ahead. "Yeah. But here we are."

"I'm glad," Wendy chimed in, her voice soft but sincere. "We've all been through a lot, but I think it's made us stronger. Together."

Gajeel, ever the gruff one, shrugged but didn't disagree. "Long as we're not babysitting anyone, I'm fine with it."

Lindsey smiled from the back of the group, watching the interaction. "Who would've thought the mighty Dragon Slayers would become a family of misfits?"

Rogue smirked. "I wouldn't call us a family just yet."

Happy, from his perch on Natsu's shoulder, grinned. "Maybe not a family, but definitely a team."

As the shadows of the forest deepened under the falling night, the distant lights of Hearth City flickered like stars through the trees. The group of Dragon Slayers pressed forward, hearts lightened by their previous victories, the scent of victory in the air. Yet, just as the group was beginning to relax, a low, thunderous growl emanated from the nearby brush.

In an instant, all seven Slayers turned toward the sound, bodies tense and senses sharp. From the shadows emerged not one, not two, but **three massive B-class ogres**, their hulking frames almost blending into the darkened forest. The beasts towered over the group, their thick, armored skin reflecting the dim moonlight. Their glowing yellow eyes glared with raw aggression, as if enraged by the intrusion of these humans in their domain.

"Looks like we've got company," Natsu smirked, flames already sparking around his fists. He cracked his knuckles, eager for the fight. "This should be fun!"

Gajeel rolled his shoulders, a wicked grin spreading across his face. "Tch, let's see who takes theirs down first. I'll crush mine in no time."

"You're on," Natsu shot back, flames dancing higher around his body.

But before their rivalry could escalate, Sting and Rogue stepped up, their eyes gleaming with the thrill of battle. Sting's confident smirk mirrored Natsu's. "I've got dibs on the one in the middle," he said, his hand already glowing with the white energy of his magic. Rogue stood beside him, silent but focused, his shadowy aura slowly intensifying.

Wendy, Lindsey, and Raven exchanged glances, determination setting in as they prepared to face off against the ogres.

"Let's split up!" Wendy suggested, her voice clear and authoritative. "Lindsey, Raven, you take one of the ogres with Sting and Rogue. Natsu, Gajeel, and I will take another one!"

"And I'll make sure you boys don't get carried away," Lindsey added with a sly smile, already channeling her magic. Raven simply nodded, her gaze cold and calculating as her magic pulsed in her hands.

As the battle lines were drawn, the ogres roared in unison, their deafening bellows shaking the trees around them. Without warning, the three beasts charged, their massive fists crashing down toward the Slayers.

Lindsey reacted first, darting forward with a graceful leap. "Silver Dragon's Lunar Flash!" she shouted, thrusting her hands forward. A beam of radiant silver light shot from her palms, slamming into the ogre's face with a blinding explosion of energy. The creature stumbled back, roaring in pain as its eyes struggled to adjust to the sudden brightness.

Raven, standing at Lindsey's side, summoned her shadows. "Void Dragon's Abyssal Bind!" Dark tendrils of shadow erupted from the ground, twisting and coiling around the ogre's legs and arms, trapping it in place as it fought against the binding magic.

"White Dragon's Holy Fist!" Sting followed, his fist glowing with radiant white light as he leapt toward the ogre's exposed chest. He slammed his punch into the creature, sending a shockwave of holy energy rippling through its massive body. The ogre staggered, clutching its chest in pain.

Rogue, always silent and precise, moved like a shadow. "Shadow Dragon's Black Claw!" His hand transformed into a dark, razor-sharp claw, and with a swift slash, he carved deep wounds into the ogre's thick hide, his movements almost too fast to see.

Despite the combined assault, the ogre let out a guttural roar, shaking off the pain and breaking free of Raven's binding magic. With a massive swing of its arm, it knocked Lindsey and Raven backward, their bodies skidding across the forest floor. But the two Slayers quickly recovered, eyes blazing with determination.

Lindsey pushed herself up, wiping the dirt from her face. "Silver Dragon's Lunar Barrage!" she shouted. Dozens of silver beams rained down from the sky, each one crashing into the ogre's body with incredible force. The creature roared in fury, its skin sizzling from the relentless assault.

"Void Dragon's Abyssal Rift!" Raven added, her voice cold and steady. A dark vortex of energy appeared beneath the ogre's feet, pulling it downward as it struggled to keep its footing.

Meanwhile, Natsu, Gajeel, and Wendy faced off against the second ogre.

"Fire Dragon's Roar!" Natsu bellowed, unleashing a torrent of flames from his mouth. The massive pillar of fire slammed into the ogre's chest, engulfing it in scorching flames. The creature howled in pain, its skin blackening from the intense heat.

Not to be outdone, Gajeel followed up. "Iron Dragon's Club!" His arm transformed into a massive, spiked iron club, and with a powerful swing, he smashed the weapon into the ogre's side, the impact sending a loud crack through the air as the creature stumbled.

Wendy stood back for a moment, focusing her support magic. "lle Arms x lle Vernier x lle Armor!" she called, sending a gust of wind around Natsu and Gajeel, boosting their strength and agility.

"Thanks, Wendy!" Natsu grinned before darting forward again, his fists igniting with renewed energy. "Fire Dragon's Iron Fist!" His punch, wreathed in flames, collided with the ogre's jaw, sending sparks flying and the beast reeling back.

Gajeel smirked, charging forward as well. "Iron Dragon's Hard Fist!" His iron-coated fist slammed into the ogre's ribs, causing the creature to let out another pained roar.

The ogre, though wounded, wasn't down yet. It roared in fury, swiping its massive arm at Natsu and Gajeel. The two Slayers dodged the attack, but the ground shook beneath them from the impact.

Wendy, watching from a distance, saw her opportunity. "Sky Dragon's Roar!" she called, unleashing a powerful gust of wind from her mouth. The windstorm whipped around the ogre, cutting into its tough skin like blades. The ogre staggered, clearly weakening under the relentless onslaught.

As for the third ogre, it lunged toward the younger Slayers, intent on crushing them. But the four stood their ground, refusing to back down.

Sting grinned, his eyes flashing with determination. "White Dragon's Claw!" he shouted, sending a glowing white slash of energy toward the ogre's legs, cutting deep into its tough hide.

Rogue followed up immediately. "Shadow Dragon's Talon!" His shadowy claws slashed at the ogre's exposed side, tearing into the creature's flesh.

Lindsey, her silver magic glowing brightly, raised her hand toward the sky. "Silver Dragon's Lunar Impact!" A massive beam of silvery energy shot from the heavens, crashing into the ogre's head and sending it crashing to the ground.

Raven, her voice as cold as ever, delivered the final blow. "Void Dragon's Abyssal Vortex!" A swirling portal of dark energy appeared beneath the ogre, sucking it into the abyss below.

In a matter of minutes, the three hulking ogres lay defeated, the clearing once again silent save for the heavy breathing of the victorious Dragon Slayers.

Natsu wiped the sweat from his forehead, grinning from ear to ear. "That was fun! I haven't had a fight like that in ages!"

Gajeel, always competitive, grunted. "Tch, I could've taken them down faster if you hadn't gotten in my way, Salamander."

"You wanna go, metalhead?" Natsu shot back, his fists already igniting again.

Natsu and Gajeel stood toe to toe, the tension crackling in the air between them as their fists clenched and magic flared. Just before they could erupt into another fight, Wendy stepped forward, her voice calm yet firm.

"Natsu, Gajeel, enough!" Wendy said, her eyes serious. "We're almost back to Hearth City. The last thing we need is to cause any chaos this close to the city. Let's avoid any trouble."

Natsu's flames flickered for a moment before dying down, and Gajeel grunted, crossing his arms. The competitive fire between them still simmered, but they both reluctantly backed off, respecting Wendy's request.

The group exchanged amused glances, silently admiring how Wendy could effortlessly keep the peace between the two fiery Dragon Slayers. As they continued walking, the tension that once filled the air dissipated, replaced by a sense of camaraderie as the soft glow of Hearth City's lights drew nearer, welcoming them back.

December 11th

-Hearth City-

As the Dragon Slayers walked toward Hearth City, the light of the setting sun painted the sky in rich hues of orange, pink, and violet. The familiar sounds of the bustling city grew louder with each step: the chatter of people shopping in the market, the clinking of metal as blacksmiths hammered away in their shops, and the faint melody of a bard strumming his lute near the fountain. It was a soundscape the slayers had grown used to over the past three years—Hearth City had become more than just a place to sleep or rest between missions. It was their home.

Natsu, Gajeel, Wendy, Sting, Rogue, Lindsey, and Raven walked through the outskirts, each of them carrying the weariness of the long journey they had just completed. They had been gone for nearly a week, traveling through dense forests and battling all sorts of creatures, but now, as they reached the city gates, their tiredness seemed to lift. There was something about returning home that could always chase away the exhaustion.

"Hearth City, here we are," Natsu muttered, running a hand through his spiky hair, his eyes gleaming with a mixture of excitement and relief. His hand twitched at his side as if itching for another fight, though the city's tranquility kept him grounded for the moment.

Gajeel grunted beside him. "Finally. Couldn't stand another minute with you, Salamander."

Natsu smirked at his rival, but didn't say anything. Instead, he folded his arms across his chest, his usual carefree attitude returning as they approached the bustling market square just outside the city's walls.

As they passed through the gate, the slayers were met by a chorus of familiar voices. The townspeople had grown accustomed to their presence over the past few years, and each one greeted the slayers warmly, some calling out their names, others waving enthusiastically.

"Oi, Natsu! Gajeel!" A loud voice boomed from across the street. The slayers turned to see Rourke, the blacksmith, standing at the entrance of his shop, his massive arms crossed over his chest. He wore a thick leather apron over his clothes, and his wild beard bounced as he laughed. "You two finally back? I was getting tired of fixing your weapons! Had to work overtime because of you."

Natsu waved back casually. "Hey, Rourke! You're still fixing our stuff? I guess I'm putting you out of business, huh?"

Rourke laughed even harder, a deep belly laugh that rattled the street around them. "Ha! You wish, Salamander! I'll be fixing your gear 'til the day I die, but don't worry, I'll always make sure it's top notch."

Gajeel rolled his eyes, but he grinned at the banter. "You're still alive, Rourke? Guess I'll have to stop by for a tune-up soon."

"Anytime! You both take care of yourselves out there!" Rourke called, his laughter trailing behind them as they moved forward.

The slayers continued through the bustling streets, where the shops began to blend together. A small flower stall caught Wendy's eye, and she smiled at the familiar sight. Marta, the elderly woman who owned the stall, waved from her spot at the edge of the square. Her flower baskets were brimming with vibrant colors: lilacs, roses, and lilies in full bloom.

"Welcome home, dear," Marta called softly, her voice carrying over the busy square. "You've been away so long, we were beginning to miss you."

Wendy smiled warmly, her heart lifting at the sight of her old friend. "Thank you, Marta. It's good to be back." She paused for a moment, glancing at the herbs Marta had neatly arranged beside the flowers. "I'll stop by later. I've run out of some of my tea herbs."

"You know where to find me, dear. Take care of yourselves," Marta said with a wink, and Wendy nodded gratefully, their exchange brief but heartfelt.

As the group moved further into the city, the streets grew busier, filled with people coming and going from the marketplace. A small group of children dashed past them, laughing and calling to each other, their voices barely audible over the noise of the crowd.

"Hey, Natsu! Gajeel!" one of the boys called, his wide eyes filled with excitement as he ran up to Sting. "You guys gonna fight some monsters today?" His name was Jorin, a curious little boy who often followed them around whenever they returned to town. He was always asking about their next mission or daring them to show him their dragon magic.

"Maybe tomorrow, kid," Sting replied with a playful grin. "We're on a break right now."

"Yeah," Rogue added with his usual calm demeanor, but his lips curled into a slight smile. "We'll be resting for the day."

The boy pouted but gave a cheerful wave before dashing off with his friends.

"Looks like the kids have missed us," Rogue murmured.

"They sure have," Sting agreed, his gaze following the group of children as they disappeared into the crowd. "They always seem so fascinated by us, even though we're just doing our job."

"It's a lot more fun when you've got little fans cheering you on," Natsu said with a chuckle, his fiery nature always ready for attention, even if it was from the kids.

As they passed the bustling market, the slayers were greeted by another familiar face: Amara, the tall, sharply-dressed woman who owned one of the best cloth shops in the city. She had a sharp eye for quality fabric, and she had sold them everything from battle gear to casual clothes during their time in Hearth City.

"Back from another trip, girls?" Amara asked, her voice smooth but teasing as she glanced at Lindsey and Raven. "Looks like you've been busy. Got any new fabrics for me?"

Lindsey grinned, her arms folded across her chest. "You know we'll always come by to see what you have, Amara. But after today, we're probably going to need new outfits for our next mission."

Raven rolled her eyes. "You just want to spend all our money on clothes."

"Hey, it's a fair trade!" Lindsey shot back. "We need to look good for our next job."

Amara gave a hearty laugh. "Well, if you're looking for something new, you know where to find me. You two always have an eye for the best, so I'm sure you'll be back soon."

The slayers continued down the road, each exchange with the city's residents bringing a sense of warmth and familiarity. It wasn't long before they reached the central square, a place where people gathered to relax in the evenings or meet friends. The fountain in the middle of the square was illuminated by the dimming sunlight, the water's gentle splash a calming sound amidst the city's noise.

Darius, a middle-aged merchant with a booming voice, stood by the fountain, laughing with a few customers. He was known for his expansive inventory and boisterous personality. He had always treated the Dragon Slayers with respect, often asking about their most recent adventures.

"Well, well, well! Look who's finally back!" Darius called out as the slayers approached. His booming voice carried through the square, drawing the attention of nearby townsfolk. "Didn't burn down the place this time, did ya?"

Natsu chuckled. "Not yet, Darius. But you know how it is, we're always close to causing some destruction."

Darius laughed along with him. "That's what you're good at, Salamander! But seriously, welcome home, all of you. Hope you didn't bring too much trouble with you this time."

"We've been pretty good," Wendy replied, smiling warmly. "It's good to be home."

As they passed through the square, the city's lights began to flicker on one by one, casting a soft golden glow over the cobblestone streets. The air had a slight chill, but it was comforting—this was Hearth City after all, a place where they had fought, made friends, and come to call home.

They walked past the familiar shops and the large town square, each one marked by memories of the past three years. Finally, they reached the towering doors of Draco Fang, their guildhall. The guild's emblem—a dragon wrapped around a roaring flame—glowed in the fading light, a symbol of the bond between the city and its protectors.

The doors swung open as they approached, and the familiar sounds of laughter and conversation spilled out. The warmth from within beckoned them inside, and as they crossed the threshold of their guild, the slayers were greeted with cheers from their guildmates.

"We're home," Wendy whispered softly to herself, her heart swelling with emotion.

Natsu clapped his hands, a grin spreading across his face. "And about time too. Let's go grab some food!"

But even in the face of Natsu's usual fiery enthusiasm, it was the sense of home and belonging that lingered in the air. The Dragon Slayers had returned to the place where they truly belonged, their guild, their family, and the city that had become their own.

-Draco Fang-

As the large doors of Draco Fang opened, the returning Dragon Slayers were greeted by the familiar warmth and bustling energy of their guild. The grand hall was filled with the sounds of clinking mugs, laughter, and the lively chatter of guild members going about their business. The warm flicker of the hearth fire danced against the stone walls, and the smell of fresh bread and roasting meats filled the air, welcoming them home after their long journey.

Natsu, Wendy, Gajeel, Sting, Rogue, and Lindsey stepped inside, letting the comfort of the place wash over them. At their feet, Happy, Carla, Pantherlily, Lector, and Frosch trotted alongside, each of the Exceeds visibly excited to be back. The guild felt alive, a stark contrast to the chaos they had faced on their journey.

Almost immediately, they were greeted by an excited, high-pitched voice.

"Wendy! You're back!"

Chelia, the 10-year-old girl with short, wavy pink hair and bright blue eyes, rushed across the hall to greet them, practically bouncing on her toes. She wore a vibrant pink dress with flowing white accents and a small, pale blue ribbon tied at her collar. She radiated energy as she flung herself at Wendy, hugging her tightly.

"I missed you so much! You have to tell me all about your adventure! Did you fight monsters? Was it dangerous?" Chelia asked, her words tumbling out in a rush. She was still in training to be a Sky God Slayer, and despite her small size, she was incredibly eager to learn everything about being a slayer.

Wendy laughed softly, returning the hug. "I missed you too, Chelia. And yes, we had quite the adventure."

Right behind Chelia came Barry, another 10-year-old with short brown hair and deep blue eyes. He was also in training, working hard to become a Water God Slayer. His clothes were damp from recent training, and water droplets trailed behind him as he approached the group, his arms crossed and a playful smirk on his face.

"You guys always get to have all the fun," Barry said, though there was no jealousy in his voice—just the excitement of a kid who admired his older guildmates. "Bet I could've handled it, too. I've been working on my Water God's Bellow, and it's getting pretty strong!"

Natsu grinned, ruffling Barry's hair. "You keep working on that, Barry. Maybe one day you'll get to tag along."

Barry frowned, fixing his hair. "One day? More like next time."

Gajeel chuckled, his arms crossed as he leaned against the doorframe. "Let's see you handle your first job before you start talking about fighting ogres, shrimp."

Barry puffed out his chest, clearly ready to argue, but before he could say anything, Ember entered the hall, her presence immediately commanding attention. The tall, striking woman with fiery red hair wore her usual battle-ready attire, a form-fitting black-and-red outfit that emphasized her role as a Fire Devil Slayer. Her sharp crimson eyes glanced over the group, her expression a mix of relief and satisfaction.

"Welcome back," Ember said, her voice calm but warm. "It's about time. I was beginning to wonder if you'd taken on an entire army."

"We almost did," Sting quipped, earning a small laugh from Rogue.

Next to Ember stood her young daughter, Lilly, a three-year-old human girl with a head of dark red hair much like her mother's. Lilly looked up at the returning slayers with wide, curious eyes, clinging to Ember's side but not shy.

"Hello, Lilly," Wendy greeted warmly, crouching down to smile at the toddler. Lilly stared for a moment before giving a shy wave, her little hand peeking out from behind Ember's leg.

"She's been talking about you nonstop," Ember said, her tone softening as she looked at her daughter. "You've become quite the celebrity among the little ones."

Lilly, growing more confident, tugged on Wendy's sleeve. "You're really strong, right?" she asked, her big eyes filled with awe.

Wendy chuckled. "I try my best. But I think you're strong too."

Lilly beamed at the compliment, her shyness fading completely.

As the group continued to settle in, talking and laughing, the Exceeds exchanged surprised glances. Happy, his tail flicking with excitement, blinked. "Hey, guys, do you feel that? Another Dragon Slayer?"

Carla, always more composed, nodded slowly. "Yes, but it's... different."

Pantherlily crossed his arms, his brow furrowed. "I haven't sensed this presence before. It's strange."

Lector and Frosch looked at each other in confusion. "Another Dragon Slayer?" Lector echoed. "But who?"

Wendy, Gajeel, Sting, and Rogue all glanced around, their own senses heightened as they began to realize what the Exceeds had felt.

Just then, Lindsey, stepped forward, her eyes narrowing. "Wait a minute…" she muttered, her voice low as she looked around the room. "Is that who I think it is?"

The others followed her gaze, their eyes widening as they noticed a new figure standing near the entrance of the library.

It was Emma Frostsoul.

The woman, who rarely left the confines of Draco Fang's expansive library, stood at the edge of the hall. Her presence immediately sent a ripple of surprise through those who knew her. Emma was known to be elusive, preferring the solitude of the library where she poured over ancient texts and studied the arcane arts, far removed from the guild's everyday activities.

Emma was striking. She wore a white-and-dark-blue kimono, the colors reminiscent of a snowy winter night. Her blonde hair, so pale it almost looked silver, cascaded down her back in soft waves, and her light blue eyes gleamed with an icy intensity. There was something about her that demanded attention, yet her aura remained cold, distant—despite the slight smile on her lips. She was the Ice Dragon Slayer, and just being in her presence felt like the temperature in the room had dropped.

Barry blinked, his mouth falling open in shock. "Is that Emma?" he whispered, his voice barely above a breath.

Ember's eyes narrowed slightly, though her expression remained composed. "It is. I didn't expect her to leave the library…"

Fenris, the powerful and laid back Storm Dragon Slayer, stood near Ember, his eyes narrowing at the rare sight of Emma in the main hall. "She never leaves the library. Why now?"

Raven and Lindsey exchanged surprised glances, equally unsure about what had drawn Emma out of her sanctuary. For years, she had been a mystery to most of the guild, known only by reputation as the brilliant but reclusive bookworm who preferred her studies over socializing.

As the group watched in silence, Emma approached them, her movements graceful and controlled. She stopped a few feet away, her pale blue eyes scanning the group before she spoke.

"Welcome back," she said, her voice soft yet clear. Her tone carried a strange mixture of warmth and detachment, like a winter breeze that didn't quite bite but left a chill in the air. "It seems your mission was successful."

Natsu, always the first to break the tension, grinned at her. "You could say that. We finished the delivery request. Took care of some ogres on the way back, had a nice workout."

Emma's gaze shifted to him, and though her expression remained calm, there was a glint of something unreadable in her icy blue eyes. "I see. I've read about ogres. Fascinating creatures, though brutish."

The Exceeds, still processing the sight of another Dragon Slayer, looked at each other in awe. "Another Dragon Slayer?!" Happy exclaimed, his wings flapping in excitement. "And she's an Ice Dragon Slayer!"

Carla raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "I've heard stories about Emma, but I never thought I'd see her outside the library."

Pantherlily nodded in agreement. "This is rare occurrence. Very rare indeed."

Wendy, however, stepped forward, her expression warm as she looked at Emma. "It's an honor to meet you, Emma. You're... beautiful," she added softly, her admiration genuine.

Emma's icy demeanor thawed slightly at Wendy's compliment, though her expression remained mostly neutral. "Thank you, Wendy. I've heard much about you as well. The Sky Dragon Slayer with a kind heart."

Wendy smiled, touched by the recognition.

Barry, still in awe, cleared his throat and puffed out his chest. "Hey, Emma! I've been practicing my Water God Slayer magic! Maybe we could train together sometime?"

Emma's cold stare softened slightly, though it remained distant. "Perhaps, Barry. But I doubt our magic would complement each other."

Before Barry could respond, Lindsey stepped forward, her brow furrowed. "Emma, you never leave the library. What brought you out this time?"

Emma's eyes flicked toward Lindsey, her expression unchanging. "I thought it was time to introduce myself properly to the returning new members. We share a common bond, after all. We are all slayers, and it is only fitting that we know one another."

Fenris, his arms crossed, spoke up next. "I've been here for years, and this is only the second time I've seen you outside of your books."

Emma's gaze remained impassive as she looked at him. "Research has always been my priority. There is much to learn about our origins and the magic we wield."

Ember, standing beside Lilly, raised an eyebrow. "Still, it's good to see you out here. Maybe you'll join us more often?"

Emma's gaze softened slightly as she looked at Ember and then at Lilly, who was still peeking out from behind her mother's leg. "Perhaps," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

With that, the tension in the air seemed to ease, and the group began to relax, returning to the lively atmosphere of the guild hall.

Natsu, always the one to bring the conversation back to a more casual tone, grinned at Emma. "Well, if you ever wanna get out of the library and throw some punches, you know where to find us."

Emma gave a small nod, her lips twitching into what could almost be called a smile. "I'll keep that in mind."

With that, Emma quietly excused herself and made her way back toward the library, leaving the group to speculate about what had drawn her out in the first place.

As they watched her go, Wendy couldn't help but feel a sense of curiosity about the mysterious Ice Dragon Slayer. There was something about her—a quiet strength, a reserved wisdom—that made Wendy want to know more. But for now, she was content with the thought that perhaps, in time, Emma would open up and become a more active part of their guild family.

Author's Note:

With Emma Frostsoul's introduction, we have officially met all the new and current Dragon Slayers in Draco Fang! Emma is the last, but certainly not the least, of these powerful mages.

As the Ice Dragon Slayer, Emma will bring a unique energy to the guild—her reserved, enigmatic nature stands in contrast to the more outgoing slayers like Natsu and Wendy.

Her preference for the library and isolation will play a unique role in upcoming arcs, as we begin to peel back the layers of her mysterious character.

In the story moving forward, Emma will have a significant character arc that dives into her past, her powers, and her connection to the world of slayers. Gajeel, with his own experience of solitude and growth, will be heavily involved in Emma's journey.

Their dynamic—Gajeel's hardened, blunt personality meeting Emma's icy and reserved nature—will create a compelling contrast that will challenge both of them in unexpected ways.

Keep an eye on Emma as she steps out of the shadows and into the forefront of the story, as her arc will not only reveal more about her but also explore deep themes of loneliness, trust, and the weight of knowledge.

Her journey is just beginning, and I'm excited to explore it alongside all of you! Stay tuned—there's much more to come!

Also thank you very much for the reviews though few make me really happy to see. I will be working on more character bios for Draco Fang so i am looking forward to that.

Next time on Draco Fang Rise of the Five: Enter Emma Frostsoul