(Edited 24/07/24)
I do not own Fairy Tail Hiro Mashima does.
The Power Of The Demonic Dragon
***POTD***
The world seemed to tremble as the roar of a Dragon preceded a powerful shock-wave that wracked the room a group of Demons had assembled within. Not a single one of them showed any sign of concern, even as the area around them trembled to the point that an ordinary person would have lost all sense of direction.
"So, it seems the power we sensed in Crocus truly was that of Lord E.N.D," a feminine voice purred, clearly amused at all the carnage and chaos. "His power certainly does not disappoint, does it, Lord Mard Geer?"
"Indeed, it does not," came the amused response from the Demon Lord in question, as they all looked up toward the throne to see the youthful man lounging idly in his seat, despite the catastrophic losses his forces below were currently suffering.
"Such carnage… No wonder Lord Zeref believes E.N.D to be his greatest creation," the skeletal form of Keyes chimed in, tapping his staff on the ground gently, pondering the being currently rampaging below. "Truly, he is a scientific marvel…"
"Be that as it may, Keyes, you mustn't forget that Lord Zeref's orders are not yet complete," Mard Geer replied to the skeletal Demon, amused at his cold view of the situation. "E.N.D has been lured here, yet we must ensure that the Gate opens when the time is right, and Lord E.N.D finds himself crossing the barrier…"
All of the Demons present, Mard Geer included, looked off to the right at a massive Lacrima Crystal that was situated behind two massive black spires. The spires themselves hummed with forbidden power, Crimson Red flowing through them like magma, the constructs possessing an eerie glow to them.
'Now I understand why you were able to fight against me and live all those years ago, Natsu Dragneel. You were the Demon Lord E.N.D, the ultimate living weapon of our Lord…'
Mard Geer's eyes narrowed on the gate, a strange feeling worming its way into his gut. It was one he had only felt on a handful of occasions, and all of them correlated to his Pride. Loathe as he was to admit it, he couldn't allow his Pride to get in the way this time, as Lord Zeref was clear regarding their fate should they fail to follow his instructions to the letter…
"The time draws near, and we have little room for error," the Demon Lord spoke sharply. "All of you, to your posts! We must ensure the Gate widens enough to fit him through! The War God Eliza took the girl, likely back to Fairy Tail, which means they'll mobilize to assist him. We must have our part done before they arrive!"
"As you command, Lord Mard Geer," the Demon Gates replied in unison, the Demon Lord watching them all move to their assigned areas across the room.
Mard Geer's eyes swept over each of them, briefly halting upon one of them in particular, who did not share the same enthusiasm for their task. In fact, if the Demon Lord had to guess, she was actually conflicted, or worse, wholly against it.
He felt his fingers twitch, but paused. The notion that she might betray them momentarily flickered in his mind, before he instantly dismissed it. After all, she was on of the founding members of the Tartaros Guild, and one of its most ruthless toward Humans.
'No,' Mard Geer thought to himself, his eyes leaving the Demoness in question as they moved over to another particular Demon in their ranks. 'If there is anyone that should be watched… I'd put my money on him.'
Mard Geer closed his eyes, exhaling deeply, as he rearranged his thoughts. It would not do to slaughter one of his Demon Gates for suspected treason now, not when their finest hour was upon them.
No, this would be the perfect test. Not just for them, but for ALL the Demons under his command…
Just how loyal were they to the Great Demon Lord Mard Geer, over E.N.D?
Today, he would learn the answer to that very question. Of that, there was no doubt,
***POTD***
Morning had come over Magnolia, as the Fairy Tail Guild assembled within the entrance to the Guild Hall. Morale was rather low, as news of Natsu's location had yet to be relayed to them by Ur, who had gone strangely silent after speaking with Elise the night prior.
"Master, I don't think we're going to be able to rely on Ur getting us the location of the Tartaros Cube," Erza said, as several others voiced their agreement. "I know she's likely doing what she can on her end, but it seems like the Council don't want us to know?"
"I must admit, I'm rather surprised Ur hasn't come through with the information just yet," Makarov replied, eyes narrowed in thought as he tapped his knee idly. "Wizard Saints are never denied such knowledge, so she should have had it within an hour at the maximum?"
"Unless the Council have some sort of ulterior motive," Elise pointed out, which caused quite a stir among the group. "Think about it? If they know Wendy got kidnapped, they'd know we'd all go out to save her, right? We'd start a war with Tartaros over Wendy, something they'd likely see as a worst-case scenario?"
"You have a point Elise," Makarov agreed, his thoughts drifting to Org and the new Council. "The Dragon King Festival incident has certainly proven they aren't too interested in the lives of ordinary people-."
"Oi, old man!?"
Makarov paused, looking toward the doors to the Guild Hall, finding a surprisingly shaken Gajeel standing there, holding onto a Lacrima.
"Gajeel? What's wrong my boy?"
"We've got a way bigger fuckin problem than the little one goin missin," the Metal Dragon Slayer panted, storming toward the Guild Master and practically shoving the Lacrima into his hands. "This was just transmitted this mornin by the Council!"
"The Council? What is it," Makarov asked, feeling like something was off, as he examined the Lacrima. I take it that whatever is on this, it relates to young Wendy and Natsu?"
"You bet your ass it does," the Dragon Slayer replied, shocking everyone at his shaken demeanor. "I-I dunno if I even wanna believe what they said…"
The entire room fell into a tense silence, with even Erza and Elise unable to formulate so much as a single word in response to Gajeel's statement. Simply by virtue of him stating that he didn't want to believe it, many had immediately gravitated toward the worst-case scenario.
"Gramps," Gray chimed in quietly, as Juvia held onto his arm in silent support. "Whatever's on it… I think you should just play it?"
"…"
"Better to know than to make assumptions, right?"
"…You're right Gray," Makarov agreed, swallowing hard as Mira gently took the Lacrima from him, placing it into a small projector she had behind the bar. "Play it, Mirajane…"
"Yes Master," the white-haired Mage replied gently, as she projected the image up against the wall, the image of the Council speaking within the conference hall in Era sending chills down the spines of ordinary Mages, who rarely ever saw them.
"Citizens of both Fiore, as well as greater Ishgar, this is an emergency broadcast from the Magical Council of Ishgar. I am Chairman Org, and I am speaking to you today on behalf of the Magical Council's Fiore Branch…"
The sound of several people shifting around could be heard in the background, as Org was handed a glass of water from off-screen.
"My apologies to you all for disturbing all regular broadcasts, however, there has been a development that both the Fioran Branch, as well as the Ishgarian Magic Council, believes the general public must be notified…"
As he spoke, several images were projected around Org, the sound of shock echoing from those physically present within the conference room.
"As of two o'clock this morning, the Ishgarian Magic Council has raised the threat level to the general civilian population to RED status. This means that, effective upon the conclusion of this broadcast, travel beyond city limits across Fiore is suspended until further notice."
Org took a sip of his water, his face grave, as several more images appeared around him.
"I am here today to inform you of the grave threat that endangers the great Kingdom of Fiore and her people. Around one o'clock this morning, Lacrima footage was provided to the Magic Council regarding a certain prominent individual within both Fiore, as well as greater Ishgar, with their actions spurring us to raise the National Threat Level to RED."
Org sighed, looking down at the podium before him, before inhaling and steeling himself for the revelation that was about to come, as a picture of Natsu popped up to the right of Org.
"As of two o'clock this morning, Natsu Dragneel has been declared a threat to both Fiore, as well as greater Ishgar. Footage provided to us, courtesy of the Rank One Wizard Saint, God Serena, has brought to light the shocking revelation that Natsu Dragneel is in fact, the greatest enemy of all mankind!"
The crowd at the conference exploded, with many voicing their disbelief at the claim. They were promptly silenced, however, as footage of a Demonic Natsu butchering Mages appeared, before it rapidly shifted to him morphing into a colossal Black Dragon.
"We have confirmation that Natsu Dragneel's true identity, is the greatest Demon from the Books of Zeref. Natsu Dragneel is in fact, E.N.D, a SSSSS Rank Dark Mage, and a threat to international security!"
The crowd was dead silent, no one able to so much as squeak, as Org took another sip of water.
"As of this moment, Natsu Dragneel is hereby stripped of every title, status and his rights revoked. He is henceforth considered an ENEMY of mankind, and shall be hunted down with every resource available to us! Rest assured; more information shall be coming later this afternoon as it is made available to us. For now, any sightings of this entity should be immediately reported to your nearest Rune Knight Branch, and all Guilds are required to immediately cooperate in the subjugation of this dangerous entity!"
Org fell silent for a moment, gripping the podium, clearly sweating as he looked directly into the Lacrima.
"Thank you all for your cooperation, and may the Gods aid us in smiting this Demon Lord before it can cause further harm to the lovely people of Ishgar…"
The entire Guild Hall was deathly silent, the image on the Lacrima Projection frozen with a shot of Natsu with a pair of Demonic horns and wings, slicing a Mage in half with his bare hands.
Makarov was the first to break the silence, letting out a tired sigh as he shook his head.
"So, this is what it has come to? I had hoped such news wouldn't reach the general public, but it appears the enemy were a step ahead of us-?"
"Hold on a sec… YOU KNEW ABOUT THIS!?"
Gray stepped up to Makarov, fists clenched tightly at his sides, as the old man merely returned his rage fuelled glare with a pitying glance.
"I did," the old man replied plainly. "What of it?"
"W-What do you mean by that!? Why the fuck didn't you report him to anyone!? Better yet, why didn't you tell any of us so we could kill him-!?"
"GRAY FULLBUSTER," Mira practically screeched, her hair flicking upward for the briefest moment. "How DARE YOU say such a foul thing-!"
"He's the Demon Lord, the most powerful Demon ever created," Gray snapped back in response. "He'll kill us all-!"
"Better watch that tone of yours, icicle," Gajeel grunted, having somewhat composed himself. "Ain't no one here gonna get mad at bein a bit scared or shocked by what Salamander is… But I ain't gonna let anyone run around callin for his death either!"
"Gajeel's right Gray, how could you turn on him just like that," Elise chimed in, arms crossed as she pondered the whole situation. "We don't know enough about what's going on to just toss Natsu to the curb-?"
"Of course you two would stick up for him," Gray sneered, looking toward Gajeel. "You're barely any better than he is! How many people have you killed for Phantom, huh!? Better yet, how many people have you roughed up as bad as you did Levy and Team Shadow Gear!?"
"G-Gray," Levy gasped in surprise, having been dragged into the argument. "G-Gajeel has worked hard t-to make up for what he d-did…"
"It isn't that simple Levy," Gray snapped back, as the blue haired Mage moved back behind Gajeel, who immediately stepped up to the Ice Make Mage.
"You can say whatever ya damn well want about me, I don't give a shit… But don't go draggin the shrimp into this…"
"I-Its okay Gajeel," Levy muttered shakily, placing a hand on his arm. "Gray's just really shocked, that's all…"
"Shocked? I'm more than shocked," the Ice Make Mage snapped in response. "I'm fucking pissed off that one of my mortal enemies has been living in the same town as me since Deliora ruined my life-!"
"And who was it who slew Deliora for you Gray," a cold, controlled voice asked firmly, as the entire room subconsciously shuffled back a few steps. "Who was it that stopped you from pointlessly throwing your life away?"
"Erza," Gray growled, turning around to face the Requip Mage, whose eyes were covered by her bangs. "Out of everyone, you should be just as pissed off as me-!"
"Never."
"W-What!?"
"I'll never be angry with Natsu for not telling me he was E.N.D," Erza repeated, taking several steps toward the Ice Make Mage, who refused to back down. "How could he tell anyone such a thing? Who could he trust with a secret that could see him hunted like an animal for the rest of his life? I can't even begin to imagine how he's felt living with the knowledge he's the Demon Lord, unable to confide in anyone-."
"Are you retarded Erza," Gray snapped in response, shocking the entire Guild, as he grabbed onto the edge of her Heart Kreuz Armor. "He's been taking all of us for a fucking ride! He's just been using us as a cover so that once he's strong enough, he can take us all out nice and easy-!"
"It appears that his hesitance to speak of his darker self was well warranted," a new voice cut in smoothly, as all eyes snapped to the entrance of the Guild Hall. "I cannot say that this sight doesn't disappoint me."
No one had the nerve to speak, as Eliza strode right on in, the brutalized form of Wendy in her arms. Elise and Erza silently rushed forward, the latter cradling the girl in her arms as Elise just looked at her Mother, silently asking for an explanation.
"As you all speak ill of him, Natsu is currently fighting all of the Nine Circles of Tartaros by himself. By my estimate, that's around eighty thousand Demons, give or take?"
"Eliza," Makarov muttered gravely, his eyes not once leaving Wendy's brutalized form. "What happened out there?"
"To give you the short of it, the Tartaros Guild kidnapped young Wendy here for a specific purpose. From the start, Mard Geer Tartaros wanted to bait Natsu to fight them, and he knew exactly how to lure him in…"
"With Wendy," Erza whispered, pressing her forehead against the young Slayer's own. "The Council must have caught wind of what he was doing, and they saw him become… E.N.D."
"I can't get into specifics I'm afraid. What I can tell you though is what has led us to this current predicament," the War Goddess replied neutrally. "Makarov, you remember that you sent him to Saint Warrod, yes?"
"I-I did," the old man replied quickly. "I assume Warrod had a task for him?"
"He did. Warrod sent him to deal with Oak Town, ordering him to slay every last Dark Mage present, and end the Porla bloodline…"
"Porla," Elise mumbled, managing to bring her eyes away from Wendy. "You mean like Jose Porla?"
"The very same. For you see, someone had resurrected the enemy that once threatened the lives of the four founders of this Guild, Geoffrey Porla, as a Lich. Geoffrey then brought back six of his descendants, including Jose, before they all merged into one entity that desired to destroy Fairy Tail."
"Good lord," Makarov whispered, almost unable to fathom such a thing. "And Natsu stopped that?"
"In a manner of speaking, yes. Its physical form was destroyed, however, it then informed him of Wendy's kidnapping by the Tartaros Guild, as well as where she was currently located."
"Leading to the footage we all just saw," Mira concluded, exhaling as she rubbed her temples. "The whole thing sounds oddly suspicious…"
"And Natsu's been fighting the Armies of Tartaros all night," Makarov sighed, the War Goddess nodding stiffly to his statement.
"Natsu isn't doing well mentally at the moment, but I have faith in his ability to overcome the odds, as always," the War Goddess continued, turning on her heel and opening a portal. "I have done what I can, and from here, the rest is up to him-."
"Mother, you can't just leave," Elise piped up, grabbing the War Goddess' hand tightly. "Can you at least tell us where Natsu is exactly!?"
"I…I'm afraid I cannot," the War Goddess replied slowly, avoiding Elise's gaze, easily shaking her hand free. "For your own safety, and his sanity, I cannot in good conscience reveal it. I'm sorry…"
With that, Eliza departed, leaving Elise shocked that her Mother practically fled from her request. However, that didn't mean the group was just going to give up.
"Jet. Please go and fetch Porlyusica for Wendy," Erza asked sharply, as the speedy Mage shook himself free from his stupor and took off toward her home.
"Erza," Makarov asked neutrally. "What are you planning on doing?"
"Wendy must be taken care of first and foremost, like Natsu wanted," Erza replied plainly, as both she and Elise shared a knowing look. "Once Wendy is being tended to by Porlyusica, I'm putting the strongest team together I can to both go and find Natsu, and to fight Tartaros-."
"Erza, you heard what Eliza just said," Makarov replied with a contemplative frown. "For your own safety and san-?"
"To Hell with what Eliza fucking said," Erza snapped back, shocking many in the Guild as they looked between one another nervously. "Natsu's dove into far worse disasters for many of us, and would have been the first to go help now! So, anyone who wants to come with me, raise your hands!?"
To the surprise of not just Erza, but Makarov as well, basically everyone kept their hands down and backed away. For a moment, Erza thought she felt her heart break just a little bit, but her fury returned full force upon seeing Gray's triumphant look.
"Y-!"
"Well, would you look at that? Finally, these cowards all show their true colors… I figured something like this was gonna happen one day, even without the revelation of Natsu being a Demon Lord?"
"Laxus," Makarov gasped, as he strolled on in with the Thunder Legion behind him, arms crossed.
"Laxus," Mira gasped. "When did you all get back!?"
"Around twenty minutes ago," the Dragon Slayer replied plainly. "Was gonna come in earlier until I heard an interesting argument going on…"
"To think that after all he has done for Fairy Tail, so many would turn their backs on him so quickly," Freed chimed in, shaking his head. "He, who gave even us a second chance, despite the horrible crime we committed against the Guild."
"Damn right! My babies and I can't believe you guys would turn on Natsu just because he's a little extra!?"
"Truly disgraceful," Evergreen agreed, supporting Freed and Bickslow's statements. "Titania has the right of it. Natsu has done more for this Guild than anyone, and he deserves our full support in annihilating the Tartaros Guild for what they've done to little Wendy."
"So, you can count on the four of us Erza," Laxus grinned, giving her a thumbs up. "We owe it to him more than anyone else, since he helped us realize how shit we all used to be, and helped us turn our sorry asses around."
"Laxus," Erza whispered, her eyes watering as Elise chimed in next.
"Well, you know you can count on me. We're basically family at this point, and I'm not about to forgive Tartaros for what they did to Wendy," the God Slayer agreed, moving to stand next to Laxus.
"And you can count me in too," Mira chimed in firmly, moving to stand next to Laxus, only for one voice from the crowd to suddenly cut through the emotional moment like a knife.
"Mira, you can't go," Elfman roared, moving forward to grab his Sister's arm, only for Mira to take a shocked step back from his reach.
"Excuse me!? And just why can't I help him Elfman," Mira asked hotly, her signature glare in full effect, though shockingly, Elfman stood his ground. "Natsu's always been there for our family, and not once has he ever treated me differently because of my Take Over Demons-!"
"But Sis, he's the real deal," Elfman shot back, as Mirajane took another step away from her Brother, as if he'd physically struck her. "He's the Demon Lord Mira!"
"Elfman… Y-You can't be serious," Mira whispered, stunned in disbelief at her Brother's words. "I can't believe that you…YOU of ALL people could think like that!? My own Brother…"
Taking several moments, Mira clenched her fists, looked down at her feet, before suddenly looking up, shooting Elfman a deathly glare which had the man thoroughly cowed.
"You will NOT stop me from doing this Elfman. You may be my Brother by blood, but you aren't the only family I have."
"S-Sis-!"
Mira completely ignored him, moving to stand next to Laxus and the Thunder Legion, arms crossed as she glared at the rest of the Guild.
"Well, you all know I'm goin too," Gajeel sighed. "Salamander gave me a chance, even after all I did to the Guild when I was part of Phantom. He's even helped me grow as a Dragon Slayer, way much more than I'd ever have gotten done on my own. So, there's no way I'm not gonna be there for him now."
Turning to look back at Levy, the shy blue haired girl gave him a slight nod, eliciting a genuine smile from the Dragon Slayer, as he made his way to join the rest of the group that was forming to help Natsu.
"Well, you can definitely count the rest of us out," Gray scoffed, shaking his head. "I can't believe that all of you would actually want to go help out a monster made by Zeref!? The damn Demon Lord, no less!?"
"Coming from you, that's truly disgusting," a familiar voice spat in response, as three new figures seemingly walked out of the wall and into view.
"J-Jellal," Erza gasped, as both Ultear and Meredy flanked his sides, the former shooting a venomous glare in Gray's direction.
"Your mentality needs a reality check Gray," Ultear hissed, looking absolutely furious at the student of her Mother. "So what if Natsu's E.N.D!? In the end, he's done more for the world than you or I ever will! Besides, it's not like him being a Demon defines who he is, does it!?"
"Of course you'd defend him," Gray shouted in response, as Juvia placed a hand on his arm in an attempt to calm him down, only for the Ice Make Mage to shake it off. "You used to be part of Grimoire Heart, and you had no problem releasing Deliora! Of course you'd be happy E.N.D is running around-!"
"Oh, so you're gonna be like that, huh," Ultear sniffed, arms crossed as she shot him a devilish smirk. "Then how's this for a fat fucking reality check Gray… Ur is also a Demon."
The entire Guild Hall fell completely silent, with even those who were supporting Natsu snapping their full attention toward Ultear at the revelation. However, Ultear herself only seemed amused at Gray's nearly panicked look.
"Y-You're lying…"
"Oh, but I'm not," Ultear continued, reveling in smashing what he perceived was reality. "In fact, my Mother is working alongside Deliora now, and has full access to his power."
At that, Gray seemed almost completely shattered, his legs shaking slightly as he stumbled back to one of the bar stools.
"No…No, there's no way…"
"And guess what," Ultear continued, stepping right up to him, a smug grin on her face. "The Magic Council are fully aware of it, and they have sanctioned it, so you can't do shit about it."
Gray immediately got up out of his seat and bolted out the front door, with Juvia rushing after him. No one dared move, as Ultear went and stood by Jellal and Meredy's side once again, sighing as she shook her head.
"Sorry about that. I get annoyed when people talk smack without possessing the full facts."
"I agree Ultear," Jellal chimed in. "I think everyone here who refuses to assist Natsu needs a similar wake up call. My apologies to you, Makarov, but the fact is that all of those cowards over there are spineless weaklings who can't face reality."
As Jellal's gaze swept over the remaining Fairy Tail Mages, he did notice Cana and Levy didn't seem to support the sudden hatred toward Natsu, as they had distanced themselves from the others.
"Natsu once told me that Fairy Tail was all about being a family. A family sticks together through thick and thin," Jellal began, as he controlled his anger for the moment. "I understand that some of you don't want to come because you know you aren't strong enough, and that's a perfectly reasonable excuse not to. However, to those of you who agree with the idea that he is a monster that should be exterminated, I have a question for you?"
The various Mages all shared looks, not liking where this was going, as the blue haired Mage continued.
"Where were you all during the countless times this Guild has nearly been destroyed?"
Jellal's question at first didn't strike a chord, as many just seemed more confused than anything else. However, to Jellal, that was all the answer he needed.
"I still can't believe the Guild has fallen this far," Laxus sighed, as the group slowly moved toward the exit. "Natsu might have succeeded in stopping my ambition to change the Guild, but it's obvious that the sense of true family left a long time ago regardless…"
All the Mages who allied with Natsu departed the Guild Hall, with the rest left to wonder what this would ultimately mean for Fairy Tail. They were, however, frozen in place, as Erza looked over her shoulder, her eye a premise of murderous rage.
"You should all consider yourselves lucky that Gildarts wasn't here… You would have all broken that man's heart with the way you're treating Natsu."
And with that, Erza departed, and the rest of the Guild immediately began chatting among themselves about everything that had just happened.
None of them were aware, however, of a small sphere of darkness that had been floating in the rafters to observe the encounter. Two Crimson Red eyes peered down at those who remained, before the sphere dissipated, leaving them alone.
***POTD***
Meanwhile, as the members of Fairy Tail came to terms with the shocking revelations of Natsu's true identity, Zeref stood silently atop a mountain, overlooking a scene of complete carnage and chaos.
Ahead of him, the entire valley had been completely razed, an incalculable amount of Demonic corpses littered the charred wasteland, the battle still raging on after nine whole hours of nonstop fighting.
The Black Mage exhaled gently, sensing the manifestation of the small sphere of darkness, its Crimson Red eyes meeting Zeref's own, as a raspy voice echoed from its swirly depths.
"It is done, Lord Zeref… Fairy Tail has fractured, and news already spreads of what Natsu Dragneel truly is. However, there are a select few from that Guild who have refused to submit to their innate hatred, and are on their way to try and join Dragneel in battling Tartaros."
"Yes, I'm not surprised," Zeref replied gently, turning to look back at the ongoing battle. "Tell me, have you purged the personalities of the Porla from your form?"
"All but one have been purged, my Lord. Geoffrey's will is far stronger than the rest of his clan, but it shall soon fade like the rest. That aside, what are your new orders for me?"
"Firstly, before we get to that, I think you deserve a reward for destabilizing the Fairy Tail Guild. Your passive influence upon the subconscious of those bearing weaker hearts and minds has proven to be an effective asset," Zeref replied, turning to face the entity. "For this, I do believe I shall grant you a name… The Darkness."
"The Darkness…?"
"Yes. You are Darkness given sentience, after all. A living manifestation of the Black Arts that spreads darkness wherever it goes. You are The Darkness, and my loyal tool…"
"I find this…most acceptable," The Darkness replied after several moments of thought. "It is what I am, is it not? All I am, will, or ever shall be… Darkness."
"Now then, as for what I desire you to do for me… I wish for you to stick with Natsu, fanning the flames of his anger, hatred and primal rage. He must remain furious if the plan is to succeed."
"Understood, Lord Zeref," The Darkness replied gently, as it slowly floated forward. "I shall report to you, should anything go awry…"
Zeref watched as The Darkness vanished in a Pitch Black haze, knowing it was heading over to pester his younger Brother some more.
"Soon, I shall receive the desired results… My apologies Brother, but this is how it must be."
***POTD***
As Natsu continued his rampage against the Tartaros Guild, the Magic Council Headquarters in Era was abuzz with activity. Thousands of people and Messenger Frogs scrambled about, as everyone tried to get a better handle on the situation.
Deep within the Headquarters though, Chairman Org sat in his office, looking over the various reports he'd been given regarding Natsu. Having delivered the address to the people of Fiore only an hour prior, he himself was still coming to terms with the truth.
"Chairman, you seem a bit out of it? You worried about something?"
The old man sighed, looking up to see God Serena casually strolling into his office, Rune Knight Captain Lahar following dutifully behind him.
"I worry every time you enter my office Serena. Not one time have you ever entered with good news for me…"
"Aww, that hurts Chairman," Serena smirked, as Lahar adjusted his glasses with his middle finger, looking down at the Chairman with a neutral gaze. "And here I thought we were becoming good friends?"
"What in the Hell gave you that assumption?"
"All my hard work recently, what else dear Chairman!?"
"What do you both want," the old man sighed tiredly.
"We've come to discuss the E.N.D situation, Chairman," Lahar replied coolly, as he moved to stand in front of the old man's desk. "God Serena and I have been discussing the situation, and have come to some realizations regarding the way forward."
"The way forward…? What exactly do you mean, Captain Lahar?"
"Well, for starters," Serena smirked, casually flopping down into the chair across from Org's desk. "Captain Lahar just… I mean, it just doesn't have that ring to it, y'know? I'm thinking that Knight Commander sounds much more fitting…?"
"…Am I to understand that you are implying I should promote Lahar to nearly the top of the Rune Knight hierarchy," Org asked slowly, placing his pen down as he shot the pair a stern look.
"Of course not Chairman," Lahar replied formally, adjusting his glasses once again with his middle finger, his eyes momentarily obscured from view due to the glare from the sun outside.
"Yeah, we're not here to force you to do anything," Serena grinned, his eyes narrowing dangerously as Org felt something wet escaping his mouth, making its way into his beard.
Slowly moving a hand to his mouth, he pulled it away to find his hand covered in blood. Shocked, the Chairman's eyes went wide, but he found himself unable to stand, his body now seemingly frozen in place.
"With respect, Chairman… No action shall be required on your part," Lahar continued coldly, his eyes coming into view, cold and focused. "In fact, we won't need any action on your part ever again."
"L-Lahar," Org managed to gasp out, before devolving into a coughing fit, blood splattering across his desk as he felt his body rapidly weakening. "What…!?"
"Tsk. Tough luck Org," Serena sighed dramatically, putting his feet up on the desk. "But it seems like your usefulness has come to an end?"
"With respect Chairman, you aren't the kind of person suitable to lead the Magic Council with regards to the current crisis," Lahar explained, as Org managed to raise his head just in time to see an all too familiar figure stroll into the room from behind the pair. "But don't worry, we've already got your replacement lined up."
"Y-You," Org wheezed, the last of his life draining from his eyes as he recalled the face of the man who had given him the glass of water during his address, one of his fellow Councilmen.
Shakily stretching out his hand, Org wheezed one last time, before his head struck the desk, and he died. Serena smirked, and Lahar maintained an impassive gaze, even as the figure behind them chuckled in amusement at the sight.
"Well now, that turned out rather well, didn't it? Ehehehehe!"
A Member Of The Magic Council
A Self-Proclaimed Thought Expert
Soon To Be Chairman Of The Magic Council
Ally Of The Bharam Alliance
Crawford Seam
"I'm actually surprised he survived that long," Lahar sniffed, shaking his head as he adjusted his glasses yet again, showing no empathy toward the now deceased Chairman. "Still, the job is done."
"That it is, Knight Commander, Crawford smirked, placing a hand on the man's shoulder. "It is rather unfortunate that we couldn't save poor Org, but I can tell you both did all you could!"
"Okay old man, don't ham it up too much," Serena sniffed, looking back toward Org's corpse. "A shame he didn't drop in public, but I'm sure we can spin this in a solid light regardless?"
"It shouldn't be too difficult. I've been unable to prosecute far easier cases than this thanks to the bureaucracy, so we shouldn't have any issues sweeping the specifics of his death under the rug."
"You really are a cold one, aren't you Lahar," Crawford chuckled, turning around to leave the room. "Get yourselves ready for some acting gentlemen!"
Neither Lahar or Serena reacted, as Crawford rushed from the room, screaming frantically for help. The pair both knew what role they had to play going forward, roles unknown even to their co-conspirator in the current Chairman's assassination.
For now though, all they had to do was sit back and watch the fireworks.
***POTD***
At ground zero of the disaster zone, Natsu stood tall in his Dragon form, surrounded by the corpses of countless Demons. With a single roar, he inspired fear in the Nine Circles, none capable of standing against his might, not even their Guild Masters, who had been slain hours prior.
And yet, despite the one-sided massacre, Demons continued to throw themselves at him, forced to carry out their orders from Mard Geer regardless of their abysmal odds of success.
But Natsu didn't have it in him to care about any of that.
After seeing Wendy's condition, and securing her immediate safety, all he cared about was getting revenge. He knew he had no right to play the hero at this point, but he was determined to wipe out the last remnants of the Bharam Alliance regardless.
If he could secure the safety and security of his loved ones from the Demons, he'd be happy.
"Is this the best the Nine Circles can muster against me," Natsu's voice boomed, frightening the Demons as some broke formation and tried to flee, only to be cut down by their own kind. "Your attacks are weak, and your defenses are even worse!"
To prove his point, Natsu arched his neck and spewed forth vicious black flames, liquefying hundreds of Demons in a matter of seconds, the rest who managed to escape the eye of the inferno being reduced to ash as their bodies charred from the heat.
It was true that their attacks lacked any sort of potency. His healing factor had actually increased quite drastically once he'd become the Black Dragon, he'd felt no drain whatsoever in his stamina, and his Magic reserves felt vaster than he'd ever felt them.
But even still, he knew he was getting nowhere with his current rampage, which left just one remaining option available to him.
"Fine then… If the Demon Gates and Mard Geer won't come down here, then I'll go up to them!"
Arching his neck back, Natsu fired another powerful breath attack. It started by blowing through the Demons ahead of him, before he adjusted its trajectory and struck the top right corner of the Tartaros Cube, blasting a gaping hole into it.
"I'll find who it was that tortured Wendy," Natsu snarled, flapping his tattered wings as he took flight. "So hide in your precious Cube if you wish… It'll be a fitting tomb!"
Natsu flew up to the hole he blasted into the Cube, perching himself on the top section as he began tearing open a larger hole. Multiple Demons rushed to stop him, firing all manner of Etherious laced curses and other powerful attacks, all of which simply bounced right off his scales.
"And don't think I've forgotten about you, Keyes! I'll be grinding those bones of yours to dust for what you did to the poor people of Easthearth!"
Arching his neck back, the many Demons who had been firing attacks at him immediately ran for cover, only for him to release a monstrous roar that completely eviscerated everything in its path, shaving off the entire right edge of the Tartaros Cube, as the floating structure began to tilt, struggling to stay aloft.
"Come out, Demon Gates! Come out, Mard Geer!"
Natsu tore into the structure once again, only to pause as he felt a strange buildup of energy. He waited for a moment, before shaking his head and continuing his assault, deeming it irrelevant.
"Prepare whatever weapon you want; it won't be enough to save you from me!"
As Natsu managed to fit his head into the Cube, The Darkness manifested nearby, observing his assault with a pleased look in its ethereal eyes.
"Yes… An interesting development, but Lord Zeref shall be most pleased," it thought, as Natsu was suddenly pushed out of the Cube by a sudden force, his massive form crashing to the ground as the entire Cube became coated in a Crimson Red Aura.
The Aura travelled to the base of the Cube, forming a bright Crimson Light attached to a strange device. Natsu could sense the power behind it, as Mard Geer himself finally made his presence known, appearing from thin air just before the strange device.
"MARD GEER!"
"Lord E.N.D," the Demon Lord smiled coldly, arms wide as if welcoming the rampaging fellow Demon Lord. "I must admit, I'm rather disappointed in your hostility toward us…"
"Like I care!"
"Oh, I know you don't," Mard Geer smirked in response, as the light grew even brighter. "It is for that reason I must, with a truly heavy heart, banish you."
"Banish me," Natsu snarled, struggling against whatever force was keeping him pinned down. "What are you talking about!?"
"You'll find out soon enough once you reach the depths of Hell," Mard Geer smirked, as the light grew even brighter, and the crushing force over him even greater. "Goodbye, E.N.D… And good riddance."
The moment Mard Geer finished speaking, a bright Crimson Red light shot down and struck Natsu, picking him up and dragging him toward the base of the Cube. Despite his best efforts, as he fired another breath attack at it, causing it to completely tilt to the right as it began to slowly go down, he still hit the base.
Upon contact, Natsu roared one final time, before his entire form vanished completely, a powerful Crimson Red wave washing over the entire landscape, ripping apart the earth and slaughtering what remained of the Nine Circles in its wake.
Mard Geer watched as the Cube powered down, crashing into the side of a nearby mountain, before sliding back down to rest in the ravaged wasteland left in Natsu's wake.
"Enjoy the rest of your days in Tartarus, Natsu Dragneel…"
***POTD***
Unbeknownst to anyone on Earthland, an informal session of the Terminus Tribunal had been observing the grim events, live from the Council Chambers. Many had conflicted feelings about the event, with many fond of the young Demon finding themselves rather saddened to see his descent into madness.
However, upon seeing the Cube activate, several of the Gods had risen from their seats, shouts of outrage and vitriol bandied about, as every last one of them knew what had just occurred.
"That damnable Zeref, he's gone too far this time," one of the Gods roared, slamming their fist on the Topaz bench before them. "Surely this is a violation that warrants action against him!?"
"The power to access Tartarus in the hands of a bunch of fledgling Demons," another spat from the Sapphire bench. "Something must be done about this at any rate!?"
"He was the best shot we had of destroying Achnologia," another from the Emerald bench chimed in. "Now we have little choice but to dispatch an Aura user to deal with the abomination Achnologia, risking him devouring them and gaining access to Aura himself!"
"And what do we do if Dragneel becomes just like Achnologia, now that he's fallen to madness-!?"
The God from the Ruby bench was silenced as a knife made of Ebony narrowly missed his head, eliciting a frightened gasp from the entity.
"Natsu would sooner die than allow himself to become another version of that thing," Eliza spat, glaring daggers at the God.
"Eliza, please refrain from throwing knives in the Council Chambers," one of the Gods of Creation sighed tiredly. "You know the rules…"
"I also know that we are mostly in agreement that something should be done, yet all we seem to be doing is sitting around and doing the exact opposite!?"
"And what would you suggest Eliza," one of the Destroyer Gods asked bluntly in response. "Should we all head on down to Earthland and give the boy a shoulder to cry on, tell him its all going to be okay? We're not dealing with the ordinary here, but rather, the sick influence of Zeref and that abomination within him!"
"You know… We could always ask the Devils for help," Felicity suggested, covering her ears as the entire chamber erupted into a cacophony of chaos and vitriol once again. "What!? It's the best idea!"
"ORDER! ORDER! THERE WILL BE ORDER IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS," one of the Destroyer Gods roared, smashing his fist on the Pitch Black bench before him. "CONTROL YOURSELVES AT ONCE!"
"Felicity," one of the Creation Gods sighed, once the chaos had died down. "We're still at war with the Devils of Tartarus, you know this…"
"What war!? Neither side has drawn blood in nearly four centuries now," the Time Goddess huffed, shaking her head. "Just send a message to the Parliament of Sin-?"
"There isn't any conceivable way that the Parliament would… Wait, no, of course! There is one way, but it's a long shot," one of the Destroyer Gods gasped, seemingly coming up with a way, as an image of Natsu was projected out before them.
"You have a means to convince the Devils," one of the Creation Gods asked, seemingly surprised.
"We all know the truth of what Natsu Dragneel really is, do we not? He is the Demon known as E.N.D, and his power has progressed to the point that, even without Aura, he is among the upper echelon in terms of power level…"
"Hold on, are you suggesting what I think you're suggesting," Eliza gasped, as the Destroyer God leaned forward, a grin on his face.
"I am. As you all know, the Earthland Reality currently does not have its own Devil Representative among the Parliament of Sin. We could push that he take the mantle as Devil of the Earthland Reality alongside the countless other Lords!"
"Which would grant him his full sanity back since he would become a higher being, the Aura cleansing him from the effects of The Darkness entity Zeref created," Eliza put together, slowly nodding. "It definitely is a viable solution, to be sure. However, is that something Natsu would even want? To become the Lord of a Reality and assume a seat among the Parliament of Sin is a lot of responsibility…"
"It is better than the alternative," the Destroyer God replied plainly. "Natsu was raised to be the one to slay Achnologia through Xicor's plan. We're too far in now to scrap it and find someone else, so he'll have to do."
"Despite the risk of him being devoured and giving Achnologia access to Aura?"
"The risk is well worth the reward, is it not, Lord Xicor?"
All eyes turned toward the Dragon God, who had remained quiet throughout the proceedings. Exhaling audibly, the Dragon God looked toward the Council, giving them a stiff nod.
"The Lords of Creation and Destruction have the right of it. The plan surrounding Natsu Dragneel has come too far along, and cannot be replicated again. I support the idea."
"I'm glad to hear that, Lord Xicor," a new voice chimed in, the doors to the Council Chambers opening to admit a newcomer to its halls. "The position would indeed cleanse The Darkness' influence, as well as granting you all the ability to bring an official end to the hostilities between the Gods and Devils. I'm sure you all desire peace, correct?"
"Impossible," Eliza whispered, slowly rising from her seat. "H-How are you here!?"
"Let me ask you a question Eliza," the figure smirked. "Has the word impossible EVER been applicable?"
"…I don't believe it," the War Goddess muttered, utterly stunned speechless as the figure turned to address the Gods of Creation and Destruction.
"By all means, send a message to the Parliament of Sin and inform them of Lord E.N.D's situation. From there, the wheels of fate shall turn to do the rest…"
"But how are you actually here," one of the God's of Creation asked, which seemed to further amuse the figure.
"Well, it all started like this…"
***POTD***
Natsu felt a tremendous pain wrack his body as he slowly regained consciousness. His eyes slowly opened to a cloudy blackened sky with a blood red moon, shining its pale light down on the realm below. Black rocks surrounded his form, as magma oozed from nearby holes in the earth, though it flowed around his large form.
It didn't take a genius to figure out where he'd been sent by Mard Geer, since the locale spoke for itself.
"A place just as fitting for a Demon like me…"
Natsu stood up to his full height and expanded his wings, before deciding to take flight. Heading high into the air to get an idea as to where he was, he spotted some sort of structure in the distance that resembled a building, and decided to fly toward it, chewing up around ten minutes of his time.
Upon arriving at the outskirts of what was now clearly a city, he landed on the outskirts to avoid startling any of the locals with his presence. However, despite his intentions, several beings appeared before him, almost as if they'd teleported.
"What the-!?"
Floating before him were three Demon-like creatures, each of them bearing similar features and wearing identical clothes.
"Is this him?"
"I thought he was supposed to be insane?"
"You idiot! Can't you sense the Black Arts on him!?"
"Uh… Guys!?"
The three entities froze as they felt killing intent wash over them, as Natsu roared at the three entities, his mind clouding over upon seeing the Demons. Unfortunately, the Dragon Slayer was unable to control himself, and lunged at the beings, who warped a considerable distance away to avoid being struck.
"Such power!? And for one so young too!?"
"What should we do!? None of us could subdue him," another of the Demon-like entities gasped, only for Natsu to suddenly being struck across the face by a sudden burst of Pitch Black, knocking him out instantly.
"Whoa-!"
"It's the Archons!"
The three entities looked up to see twelve robed figures slowly descend from the void-like skies above, landing around Natsu in a circle. As one, they raised their arms as Natsu's Dragon Form began to rapidly shrink, forcefully reverting him back to his base form.
"This is definitely the one that the Terminus Gods spoke of," one of the Archons muttered, as another took a drag from its cigar, exhaling with a light chuckle.
"The Demon Lord E.N.D, eh? He's definitely got what it takes to hold the seat."
"Agreed," another rasped, its voice almost ethereal. "But we must get him to his seat quickly, and strip the taint of Ahnkseram's Black Magic from him before we speak any further…"
The Demon-like entities picked up Natsu's unconscious form and carried him off toward the city, leaving the Archons behind.
"A Demon Lord with the power to face down that abomination Achnologia, eh," the cigar smoking Archon mused. "If nothing else, the rest of the Parliament is gonna have a fucking field day with the appointment of a new Devil Representative…"
"I believe it prudent we send an immediate response to Terminus and inform them we agree to the written truce?"
"Agreed," all twelve spoke as one, Pitch Black coating their forms as they began to twist and distort the space around them, before vanishing entirely.
***POTD***
It was around lunchtime on Earthland, as the loyalists toward Natsu met up just outside of town near Gildarts' home. The whole group seemed at a loss at what to do, unsure of how to proceed.
"So, do we even have any idea of where to start looking for him," Laxus asked bluntly, as the rest of the group shared similar looks of confusion.
"All we know is that he went to speak with Saint Warrod, then attacked Oak Town, right," Mira supplied, as the group seemed to consider that small scrap of information. "Its reasonable to assume he'd be somewhere near there, right?"
"Based on the destruction being shown during the Council's broadcast, I'd say it shouldn't be too hard to find where he is from the air," Jellal chimed in. "Since many of us have the ability to fly, it shouldn't be too hard to locate them?"
As they discussed what to do, Erza noticed a massive branch rapidly moving toward them from the nearby mountain, putting everyone on alert. The group was shocked, however, as Saint Warrod arrived, a grim look on his usually cheerful face.
"Saint Warrod," Mira gasped, prompting the man to wave his hand to silence her.
"My apologies Miss Strauss, but we have little time! I assume the lot of you are still on Natsu's side, yes?"
"We are," Erza replied firmly, stepping forward. "What do you need Sir?"
"All of you, hop on immediately," Warrod said sharply, as everyone immediately did as they were told. "He put up an absolutely monumental fight, single wiping out all Nine Circles and forcing the Tartaros Cube to crash land before I lost sight of him."
"So, is he dead," Laxus asked plainly, eliciting several glares from the group. "It's a fair question?"
"I-I cannot answer that for certain young man," the aged Wizard Saint replied, as the vine altered its course before shooting off at high speed. "To be frank, Natsu killed around eighty thousand Demons by himself before I lost sight of him, so who can say what his current condition is?"
"Are you serious," Elise gasped. "Eighty thousand!?"
"If Tartaros hadn't done whatever it was they did, I dare say he'd have added the Demon Gates and Mard Geer to the list as well," Warrod replied seriously. "Never in all my years have I witnessed such a thing. The amount of Magical Power he was putting out was reportedly sensed half the country away!"
"How the heck did Salamander manage to pull that shit off," Gajeel asked curiously, as the old Saint turned to face them all.
"The answer is rather simple. I saw him turn into a fearsome Black Dragon, before suddenly moving to tear into the assembled Demon Armies of the Nine Circles."
"He did WHAT!?"
"I have to agree with Gajeel on that," Erza replied calmly, before rapidly pulling a one eighty. "WHAT!?"
"I don't know how he did it, but he did. I just pray we can reach the Tartaros Cube in time and help him," Warrod replied darkly, looking off into the horizon. "I hope the young man is alright…"
The others all fell silent, hoping that Natsu had indeed managed to survive the ordeal. Though they didn't know how he'd react once they had to tell him the inevitable news that he was now a wanted criminal?
Either way, they'd be there for him, just like he had been for them.
***POTD***
For the second time in an hour, Natsu slowly felt himself regaining consciousness. Although, this time, something felt different as he opened his eyes, finding himself in a gargantuan chamber, seated among countless individuals who all varied so wildly from one another in appearance, he thought he might still be unconscious.
Looking around, he noticed many eyes were upon him, further adding to the sense of awkwardness and unease he felt.
"Uh… Hi?"
"Wow, what shit first words," a young teen with medium length blonde hair joked. "You'd think he'd have done something cool like try to pick a fight with one of us at least?"
"Not everyone is as stupid as you," a voice grumbled to his immediate left, startling Natsu as he looked right into the eyes of a holographic nine tailed fox creature. "Heh. Always funny to see how frightened the newcomers are…"
"At least I'm not so pathetic as to get sealed inside an infant," the blonde-haired teen shot back cheekily, eliciting a low growl from the fox.
"Perhaps we should instead help the poor man understand exactly where he is and why he's here," a deep, feminine voice purred from the row above him, as Natsu looked up to see a woman with deathly white skin, long flowing white hair, and prominent veins across her cheeks, as well as a notable black diamond in her forehead.
"This one looks rather interesting," the young man next to her mused, smiling down at him as he tapped his fingers on the bench before him.
The young man had medium length, slicked back brown hair, light brown eyes, and wore a black yukata with a white haori over it, the yukata tied with a Crimson Red sash that held a rather ornate looking katana that had a rather interesting looking jewel in its hilt, as well as strange kanji he couldn't identify.
"Where…am I?"
"It seems like you've recovered, Natsu Dragneel," a rather deep, masculine voice chuckled, snapping his attention directly in front of him. "Hey kid."
Natsu blinked as a robed figure hovered not three feet directly ahead of him, smoking a cigar, his face shrouded by a strange black film of some sort that he couldn't even begin to identify.
"Welcome to Hell kid," the man continued, leaving the Dragon Slayer openly gaping, much to the amusement of those around him. "I suppose you deserve an explanation of what's going on, so listen close. You've been chosen to become a Devil, which I've been told you know the bare minimum about, correct?"
"I-I know like a tiny bit, yeah…?"
"Good. So, basically, what you really need to know is that you've been chosen to represent your world here," the man began, exhaling some smoke as he spoke. "We call people who do so, Devil Representatives."
"Wait… So, you're telling me that Devils are made and not born!?"
"Oh, Devils can be born," the robed man replied easily. "But there wouldn't be anywhere near enough of us if we stuck to that boring method. So basically, both ways are true."
"So let me get this straight… I'm a Devil now?"
"Correct."
"But why am I a Devil?"
"Simply put, you're the best candidate of your world to represent it as one," the man replied bluntly. "There's a lot that goes into being the Representative of your world, which you'll learn as you go. But basically, it just involves keeping your world running and its affairs in order, as well as attending the Parliament of Sin, which is this place."
"Um…I think I get it?"
"Trust me, you don't get it," the robed figure laughed, shaking its robed head. "Don't stress about it too much for now, since its not really important. Instead, let's introduce you to some of the other members who you're seated near and give you a little background on them. So, who'd like to go first?"
"I suppose I'll go first," the fox entity sighed, noticing everyone looking at him. "Hey kid, as you can see, I'm a Nine Tailed Fox, better known in my world as the Kyuubi no Kitsune. Though, since we're colleagues, you can call me Kurama."
"Uh… Nice to meet you," Natsu chuckled awkwardly.
"To give you a bit of an idea about me, I'm the strongest of Nine Tailed Beasts in my world, who were derived from this other entity that had Ten Tails. Basically, I'm one of the strongest beings in my world, since my raw power far exceeds basically every Human by a landslide. Unfortunately, I can't physically be here at the moment because I'm sealed inside a young brat!"
"If you're an all powerful Demon Fox, how did you get sealed inside some kid," Natsu asked curiously, eliciting a frustrated growl from the fox, and amused laughter from those around him.
"THROUGH HAX BULLSHIT, THAT'S HOW!"
"Lord Kurama got sealed away by one of the greatest masters of the Sealing Arts in his world," the young man seated above him chimed in lightly, smirking at the glare the fox sent his way. "No need to look so man, its merely the truth, isn't it?"
"Even if it is, no one asked you! Shut up and go back to sucking on souls!"
"So, who are you," Natsu asked the man, who merely smirked down at him as he leaned back in his seat.
"My name is Aizen… Sosuke Aizen. I can tell by that expression of yours that you're wondering why I smell like death, no?"
"I assume that, based on Kurama's comment, you're tied to death in some way?"
"Correct. I'm what's known as a Shinigami," Aizen explained, surprising Natsu somewhat. "I have…many talents, some of which you may one day find useful? After all, we're all work colleagues, striving toward the same goal."
"His goal is to stay out of Shinigami Prison," Kurama cut in, though Aizen showed absolutely no reaction to the jab. "He's as sealed as me, but with extra steps."
"I'm confused… Do you have to be evil to end up getting a seat here?"
"Not at all," the woman next to Aizen giggled lightly. "You simply have to be dark natured, Natsu. Light isn't always good, just as darkness isn't always evil. Your battle with Ravus should have highlighted such a thing quite well?"
"You know, that does actually make sense," Natsu agreed, nodding slowly, as the robed man drew the Dragon Slayer's focus back to him.
"By the way, this might help you understand your situation a bit better," the robed man said, as a leaflet popped into his right hand, which he passed to Natsu. "This will probably explain the basics of what you'll get being a part of the Parliament of Sin and being a Devil far better than what someone will tell you."
Natsu couldn't help but chuckle at the novelty of the Devils giving newcomers a leaflet, but welcomed it all the same. With a thankful nod, he began to read the leaflet.
Welcome To The Parliament of Sin!
So, you've been granted a seat within the Parliament of Sin? Congratulations!
But hold on new Devil Representative, because we've got a few things we need to go over first before we can set you loose upon the Parliament, as well as the wider Reality!
First and foremost, it is important for us to address just what being a Devil actually means, isn't it?
You must be thinking that you have become an evil, sin spewing, world conquering calamity, right? Well, fear no more fellow Devil Representative, for that couldn't be further from the truth!
On average, only seventy two percent of Devil Representatives were criminals at some point. And only forty seven percent can be held liable for acts of world domination within their respective Realities!
Now that we've cleared that up, time to explain to you what a Devil truly is!
As a Devil, you now oversee an important role in the greater scheme of things. Think of your new role like that of a God, only better, since you actually get to go places!
As a Devil, you have likely been chosen for a specific trait, feat, or other unique purpose relating to your world, that would qualify you for the position. This means you have been selected based on actual merit and skill, which probably makes you feel rather nice, doesn't it? Unfortunately, we ran out of merit stickers a long time ago, but we're sure you'll be content with the verbal praise, right?
Praise aside, being a Devil means you now possess a seat among the Parliament of Sin, a pseudo-Democratic governing body that makes decisions across countless realms in what we like to call, the greater Existence.
Attendance is not mandatory, as we know Devil Representatives have very important jobs back in their own Realities. However, some rather exciting votes happen, like deciding who we should go to war with, messing with scientists by having the Archons turn off physics for an hour, or what ice cream that will be served during the intermission periods for that week!
But now you might be wondering to yourself what kind of perks there are to being a Devil beyond making fun of Politicians? Well, have we got you covered Devil Representative!
Here is a small list of the top rated perks all Devil Representatives gain access to! Remember, these aren't all the perks, but are based on votes from your peers! That means its probably at least thirty percent authentic!
1 – A significant increase in your overall power, which will put even the weakest Devil Representative above the strongest average mortal
2 – Everyone's favorite perk, immortality, though one only retains true immortality within the higher realms and within the mortal realms, only agelessness applies
3 – Access to the Devil's Eyes, which are those Crimson Red eyes you may have noticed your associates using
4 – The ability to create pathways to basically any place you want to go across the unrestricted space of Existence, even the Realities of other Devil Representatives
5 – Higher mastery in your current repertoire of abilities so that you can be the most effective Devil Representative you can
6 – Every Devil Representative has an Assistant to help them maintain their Realities
Boy, who doesn't love things like having underlings or being truly immortal and never able to die?
Now, you might be thinking that this is all a bit much? But remember, you have been chosen among all the dark affiliated beings within your realm because we believe you are the best person to represent it! You've earned it, so don't be shy at indulging in the perks!
But wait, don't go indulging too much, because we still have to outline the general hierarchy!
Since Time began, beings like to outrank other beings because of reasons. Why is that the case? Simple, no one cares. Anyway, here's the full list of ranks within the Tartarus Hierarchy.
1 – High Archon
2 – The Twelve Archons
3 – Arch Demon Class
4 – Greater Demon Class
5 – Demon Class
6 – Lesser Demon Class
7 – Thrall Class
Make sense? Tartarus has always operated under a rather simple caste system in order to ensure everyone knows who is in charge.
As a Devil Representative, you automatically start at the Greater Demon Class or higher by default. Your initial placement will depend on your current level of power, or importance to the operations of Tartarus.
Now, due to circumstances beyond the control of anyone, it is important for us to inform you about the top three classes.
First on the list is the High Archon, a position reserved solely for the current Lord of Hell.
At the time this leaflet's generation, only two beings have ever held the position of High Archon. The being who created Hell, the city of Tartarus, and the Parliament of Sin. His name is forbidden from being spoken due to a taboo, so don't go asking about it.
The second being to hold the title, is the founder's Son, High Lord Lucifer, who has been missing for well over a millennia after getting into a fight with his counterpart within the Terminus pantheon, High Saint Michael.
Moving on to The Twelve Archons, these are the ones who run Devil operations in Lord Lucifer's absence. Each Archon wields frightening power, and is capable of going toe to toe with any of the Gods of Creation or Destruction.
The Twelve Archons word is law. But don't fret, because they are lazy, and only do work if it is necessary, or if they're bored.
Which moves us to the Arch Demon Class. These are the Devil Representatives who wield the most power among the group, and all are potential Archon candidates. Many of them have been in the Parliament for thousands of years, and are probably just as bored as the Archons?
Now then, with all that out of the way, time for the icky rules! We say icky, but you still have to follow them.
Firstly, you are free to come and go as you please back and forth from Tartarus and the mortal realms. Unlike the Gods, we couldn't care less if you run around and do your own thing, so long as you don't bring trouble back with you.
The only exception to this is if you receive summons from the Archons or higher. If so, you are to report back without delay or question. No one likes a timewaster!
Second, you are not allowed to kill a fellow member of the Parliament! Fighting each other is fair game, but nothing lethal! Founders rule, punishable by instant erasure!
Thirdly, you are under NO circumstances, allowed to bring any mortals back here unless given prior permission by an Archon or Arch Demon Class. Some realms have beings that can go beyond Infinity, and the Archons hate having to track them down and erase their existence for being annoying.
Fourthly, under no circumstances are you allowed to try and steal the power of another Devil Representative. You are also not allowed to create a being within power equal to, or greater than your own within your own Reality!
Trust us, we saw this happen and it didn't end well.
Finally, under no circumstances are you to use your newfound abilities to cause widespread mayhem and chaos among your home Realities. You may of course use them to fight, or to achieve important goals, but senseless chaos and destruction is forbidden by the Archons.
And that's it! Hopefully this leaflet has enlightened you at least a little bit on the vast and ridiculously unique world you'll be walking into!?
Remember Representative, you're a Devil now, so make sure you don't screw this up!
Natsu just blinked as he finished the flyer, trying to process what he had just spent the last twenty minutes going through. The Devil Representatives around him seemed to find his reaction amusing, hinting at their own similar befuddlement when they read the leaflet long ago.
"So, there you have it kid," the cigar smoking Archon puffed, leaning on thin air as he studied Natsu's reaction to the leaflet. "We let the interns write that, in case you're wondering why it seems so…"
"Informal?"
"Yeah… Let's go with informal," the Archon laughed lightly. "Anyway, keep a hold of that flyer in case you forget anything. Also, feel free to just ask anyone for help if you want to know something the flyer doesn't teach you. For now though, you'll have to remain in that chair."
"Why?"
"While you're in that chair, you're being linked directly to the Aura Network."
"That's the thing that let's you open up portals or warp around the place," Kurama supplied helpfully, eliciting a knowing hum from Natsu, having seen Eliza do it many times.
"After you've been linked, we've got to get you over to the training grounds to you can learn the basics on how to use Aura. You might think its easy, but believe me, no rookie figures out how to use it on their first go."
"Fair enough. How long will all that take roughly?"
"For you? Around two years."
"T-TWO YEARS!?"
"Relax kid, its not that big of a deal," the Archon replied, waving him off. "We know you've gotta get back home and deal with that whole mess going on with those Demons and whatnot. But remember, you're a higher being now, so you can sense the Time you are supposed to return and just show up as Time dictates that you're supposed to be there?"
"Oh…"
"You're probably thinking that's broken, but over ninety eight percent of the Timeline is full of Fixed Points in Time that you can't change. So, its not like you can just show up at whatever Time and place you want and just go from there"
"Can I be completely honest with you?"
"Sure, what is it?"
"My head is about to fucking explode," Natsu replied, before promptly passing out.
The Devils around him all laughed at that, amused at the newbie being overloaded with difficult concepts. The Archon merely shrugged, since he knew Natsu wouldn't be allowed to leave this place without knowing the rules necessary to avoid destroying Time, Space and Reality itself.
"Ah, he'll be fine," the Archon huffed, before lighting another cigar. "Probably shouldn't have joked about it taking two years though? That crap is like two weeks tops…"