(Edited 30/08/24)
I do not own Fairy Tail Hiro Mashima does.
Truth In Scarlet
***POTD***
Arriving back at the makeshift camp, Natsu trudged his way inside the cave and dropped onto his back, as Brandish crouched over him.
"You look like shit."
"Feel like it too…"
"I thought you couldn't bruise anymore now that you're an all-powerful Demon King with Devil powers?"
"I've been asking myself that same question Brandish, believe me," Natsu hissed as she started poking one of the bruises on his face. "Stop that!"
"What were you fighting anyway," Yasmin asked, as both she and Seilah sat down next to him. "Was it the Vampire King?"
"Nah, not him. Alucard took him off somewhere… Well, that's what Eliza and I think, anyway."
"Well it definitely couldn't have been the Vampire Prince," Seilah chimed in. "He was only marginally stronger than Brandish and Yasmin."
"Nah, wasn't him either."
"Then tell us what could shake someone with the powers of a Devil," Yasmin smirked, only to receive a strong flick to the forehead by Natsu. "OW!"
"Don't make fun of me Yasmin, I was fighting pretty hard out there."
"I know that you prick! Damn that smarts," the Leichart Mage hissed, rubbing her forehead.
"And what were YOU fighting this whole time?"
"Did you forget that I got stuck on cleanup duty? I was out there fighting half the Vampire army whilst the rest of you got all the action!"
"Actually, I never found my target," Brandish admitted, as everyone's eyes shot toward her. "Yeah, I'd say that's a bit of a problem, huh?"
"Let's look into that later," Natsu sighed, shaking his head. "To answer your question though Yasmin, I fought a five thousand…ish year old Human from another Reality that was warped by beings that came before the Gods and Devils known as Titans into being a Dragonslayer."
"…"
"…"
"…"
"What?"
"You can't seriously expect us to believe that, right," Brandish asked, as the others all clearly conveyed their disbelief at the story.
"Its true! Eliza even said so!"
"Well, whatever it was that you fought, it definitely was some battle," Brandish replied with a shrug. "Not quite as impressive as Lady Irene's battle with the Vampire Queen, but still…"
"Why is everyone saying that? Its not a competition you know," Natsu huffed, shaking his head in disbelief. "Seilah, how did your fight against the Necro Lord go?"
"He was certainly stronger than expected. But what you allowed me to borrow was more than enough to overwhelm him in the technique department."
"Good to hear. Like I told you, we're a team now. So, if you need anything, just ask."
"I know Master, and I'm extremely grateful," Seilah smiled lightly.
"So, where's Irene at? Sounds like she had the best battle out of us all?"
"Lady Irene went to sleep some time ago after dropping into a trance-like state," Brandish answered him, motioning to her small tent nearby. "She'll probably tell us more about it when she wakes?"
"Oh, I see," Natsu replied, somewhat surprised that Irene was so fatigued after a battle. "Well, do we have any food?"
"We only had those leftover vegetables you gave us, so I made soup," Yasmin laughed, as Seilah retrieved him a bowl from the fire nearby. "Sucks we have no meat, but you did say it was the last of your reserves…"
"Yeah, it was. I usually carry around about two tonnes worth of food inside a segmented section of my Requip Space. We ended up tearing through that pretty quickly between six of us."
"Here you are Master, still nice and hot," Seilah smiled, handing him a warm bowl of soup. "I'd suggest following Irene's example and getting some sleep after you've eaten?"
"Fair enough," Natsu nodded, feeling the fatigue building up within him as he looked toward Brandish and Yasmin. "So, what's next for you guys now that the Vampire threat is gone? Head back to Alvarez?"
"That's the plan," Yasmin replied with a curt nod. "With the Vampire threat subjugated, that ends any hostile force across the continent who could oppose the Emperor."
"Technically, you're here, and we should be subduing you right now," Brandish noted, shaking her head side to side. "But we're not going to do that."
"Really?"
"The order to capture you and bring you to Vistarion didn't come from Emperor Spriggan, but from Invel."
"Invel? He's still speaking for Spriggan?"
"For the moment, yes. The Emperor has only spoken to Lady Irene and Lord Varnik in the last year, and very briefly at that. Therefore, Invel is running the day-to-day affairs of the Empire."
"I see… Well, thanks for not capturing me you guys. I appreciate it," Natsu laughed lightly.
"After all we've been through, it just wouldn't be the right thing to do," Yasmin admitted honestly. "Besides, you joined forces with us when you didn't have to, so we owe you anyway."
"You don't owe me for that. The Vampire threat was obviously quite real, and needed to be stopped at all costs. I-I can't believe I'm saying this but… I'm glad we all got to work together. If nothing else, I'll admit that my opinion has changed on Alvarez, and those who lead it."
Both girls were stunned at Natsu's words, with Brandish, blushing slightly and looking away. Given their past history, this was the last thing Brandish had ever expected to hear come from the man's mouth.
"L-Let's not go getting carried away now," the Spriggan huffed, refusing to look at Natsu as she moved toward Irene's tent. "Let's just savor this hard-earned victory!"
"Heh. Agreed Brandish," Natsu smiled, knowing full well he'd struck a sensitive spot with the green haired woman. "I think I'm gonna have a nap now guys, alright?"
"As always, I am on standby to be your pillow Master-."
"And as always, I'll be fine Seilah," Natsu chuckled tiredly, shaking his head at her antics, as he slowly felt sleep begin to take hold. "Talk to you all…later…"
***POTD***
Six hours later, everyone was out like a light as Natsu exited the small cave that overlooked the site of the battle. The Devil sighed, rubbing his sore head as he moved to sit atop a nearby rock, contemplating everything that had happened since the Tartaros incident.
"Hey Igneel?"
"What?"
"Is there a curse over Draconia or something that forces it to suffer through constant wars like this?"
"Heh! You know, I wouldn't be surprised if it was," the Fire Dragon Monarch chuckled lightly. "As far as I'm aware though, its just a series of bad luck?"
"Right," Natsu hummed, sensing the arrival of a somewhat familiar presence several meters behind him.
"Natsu Dragneel. I must say, the Parliament is most impressed with your latest victory," a smooth voice spoke up, clearly amused at his actions. "It's been quite some time since any Devil has had the spunk to actually go out there and shake things up. I must admit, I personally find you actions to be most…amusing."
Former Member Of The Thirteen Court Guard Companies
Former Captain Of The Fifth Division
Lord Of The Shi Reality
Arch Devil Of The Parliament Of Sin
He Who Would Stand Above Heaven And Earth
Sosuke Aizen
"I must be rather popular? First Alucard, now you," Natsu joked, as Aizen moved to stand next to him, as the pair gazed out at the destruction before them. "I assume you came here for a reason? Either that, or an Arch Devil such as yourself is just that good at his job, he has all the time in the world?"
"You intrigue me, Natsu Dragneel," Aizen replied, a small smirk on his face as he motioned out to the destruction before them. "Not even six months into your role, and already you've slain a relic from the Age of Titans? To defeat one of those whilst still being a rookie yourself… It reminds me of another I knew in the past."
"Oh yeah?"
"Yeah. He was a rookie back in my own Reality, yet went on to surpass us all… But enough about him," Aizen replied laughing the seriousness of the moment off. "What did you think about Alucard, hmm? Quite a funny guy, isn't he?"
"He's a bit sadistic, but overall, I quite like him," Natsu replied honestly as he thought back to his brief time spent with the Elder Devil. "I definitely learned quite a few tricks with Aura from him."
"You've learned a lot more than a few mere tricks Natsu," Aizen replied knowingly, as he again gestured to the destroyed landscape before them. "It appears you are a prodigy in the art of combat Natsu, and that's something highly prized up in the higher realms. You've learned much, but there is much that still eludes your grasp…"
"Oh yeah, such as?"
"You want the power to protect the people closest to you, right? Well, no matter where you go, you can't save everyone," Aizen replied honestly. "But, in saying that, you know that there is a way to make sure nobody around you ever thinks of the idea to harm those closest to you, right?"
"You're talking about using the Devil's Aura to force people around me into submission through fear," Natsu frowned, shaking his head. "As useful as that is, I don't want to use it unless its necessary. I don't want to scare everyone away from me, you know?"
"How foolish," Aizen smiled, somewhat surprising Natsu at his bluntness. "The whole reason you're even here to begin with is because your own Guild and country fear what you are, is it not? Sure, those precious few friends and your fiancé care about you, but the majority of the world turned their backs on all the good you'd done the moment a single inconvenient truth was placed before them."
"You're not wrong, but I'll prove those people who fear me wrong," Natsu replied firmly, as he locked eyes with the man. "Running around and using my power to force people to accept me will only justify their words, likely turning even those who support me away. No, I'll do things the way I always have Aizen, otherwise, I'd be as bad as Zeref."
"Well, it's your Reality," Aizen replied cheerfully, shooting Natsu an amused smile. "I'm just giving you some advice, that's all. Oh, which reminds me, I actually did come here with a purpose!"
"Really? Well, what is it?"
"There's a meeting coming up, and everyone has to be in attendance," Aizen explained. "You specifically have to be in attendance though, because the Archons and the Gods of Creation and Destruction will be signing a pact to officially end hostilities. Apparently since you were the main reason for the pact even getting off the ground, they want you there as a…well, a sort of bridge between them I suppose?"
"Really? Well, I'll definitely be there," Natsu smiled. "When is it?"
"Two weeks from today. It was meant to be tomorrow, but they decided to push it back once word came in of you fighting a creation from the Age of Titans," Aizen explained. "Can't really blame them."
"Yeah, I'll definitely be there," Natsu replied, feeling rather happy he'd done some good for the higher realms.
"You know, I've been thinking about what will come from this new pact, and what my place will be once everything gets off the ground," Aizen hummed to himself as he opened a portal next to him. "I've tossed about the idea of starting a sort of newspaper with Salem? One that can be delivered to all higher beings using the Gates… What do you think?"
"You're asking me about if you and Salem should start a newspaper," Natsu asked incredulously. "I mean…I don't really know much about the higher realms yet, but is there even a news service at all?"
"No, there isn't," Aizen replied. "Salem thinks it will be a lucrative business opportunity if we were to jump on this now whilst the leaders of both sides hash out this unified front?"
"Well, if there isn't any sort of media, then she's not wrong," Natsu thought. "But I guess the real question is, do you want to do that?"
"Hmm… I wonder," Aizen hummed to himself, leaving through his portal right as Irene emerged from the cave, back in her regular robes.
"Hey."
"Evening Natsu," Irene replied quietly as she sat herself down next to him. "Sorry I wasn't awake to greet you upon your return-."
"Ah, don't worry about it," Natsu smiled lightly. "The others explained it to me."
"I-I see," the Spriggan Mage replied, as she ran a hand through her hair.
"So…Uh, I talked to Brandish and Yasmin earlier, and they both side you'll probably all be going back to Alvarez," Natsu spoke up, as an awkward silence momentarily fell over the pair.
"Y-Yes… There's much to do, so little time!"
"…"
"…"
"…"
"I think we should just lay everything out on the table, so to speak," Irene sighed, finally breaking the silence as she forced herself to meet his gaze. "Ask what it is you wish to ask?"
"Fine," Natsu sighed, as he fully turned himself to face her. "Irene?"
"Yes?"
"You know that Dragons have superior noses to that of Humans, right?"
"Yes…"
"And you know that I am able to switch between a Human and full Dragon form, just like you can, right?"
"Yes, I'm aware," Irene replied slowly, knowing full well where this was going to go.
"Once I became a Devil, it enhanced my senses even further. As a consequence, I can smell past the fake scent you've been masking yourself with…"
"…I thought as much."
"Irene… Why do you smell just like Erza?"
The scarlet-haired Mage released a breath she was well aware she'd been holding, her hands dropping into her lap as she contemplated how to even begin to explain to Natsu who she was, and her relation to Erza.
"It's a long story Natsu, are you certain you wish to know the truth?"
"I'm willing to listen to all of it, no matter how long it takes," Natsu replied firmly, something that actually beefed up her courage ever so slightly, since he was willing to fully hear her out.
"Very well… You asked what my relation to Erza Scarlett was," Irene replied quietly, as she met his gaze unflinchingly. "Erza Scarlett…is my biological Daughter."
To her surprise, Natsu didn't really seem to shocked by that revelation, simply giving her a quick once over with his eyes before nodding solemnly.
"I suspected as much."
"Since when?"
"Aside from your looks being pretty similar," Natsu replied, suppressing a slight chuckle on his lips. "I really started to suspect it when I saw Erza looking a bit older, since she's beginning to fill out similarly to you."
"O-Oh," Irene blushed, looking away. "Is that so-!?"
"Looks aside, you both have a similar scent, which is what all but confirmed the matter for me."
"I see…"
"The thing I want to know," Natsu continued, his eyes darkening as he met her gaze once more. "Why did you abandon her?"
"That…is the long part of the story," Irene sighed, seeming to be genuinely remorseful for what she'd done, something that surprised Natsu. "The short answer is that it was to protect her from what I would be doing for Zeref…"
"Wait, you abandoned her for Zeref?"
"In a manner of speaking, but its much more complicated, since you're involved too," Irene replied quickly. "As are all the other First Generation Dragon Slayers in Fiore!"
"I would advise you shut up and listen to her Natsu," Igneel chimed in, startling Natsu. "She speaks the truth, I should know…"
"Igneel's vouching for me, isn't he?"
"How did you-?"
"It's because of who I am, and what role I've played in the lives of you and your friends," Irene replied quietly. "As you know, I am the Sage Dragon Monarch, as I told you several months ago. However, I was the student of the previous Dragon Sage, who was slain by Achnologia in Age Zero."
"Belserion…"
"Correct. My last name was directly inherited from the Dragon Sage who once convened directly with the Dragon God, Lord Xicor, and the Dragons of Earthland," Irene replied sadly. "He was…I miss him dearly."
"She speaks the truth Natsu," Igneel chimed in, supporting her claim. "Ask her to speak of the fall of the Dragnof Kingdom, and how she came to assist the last Dragons? I dare say her tale will answer many of your questions…"
"You could've told me this at ANY point, couldn't you?"
"With respect, it was not my tale to tell,," Igneel replied in a rather reserved tone, as Natsu took a deep breath.
"Irene? Igneel said I should ask you about the fall of the Dragnof Kingdom, and how you came to meet with and help the last Dragons? I've heard the Dragnof Kingdom mentioned before when I saw what happened to Draconia in the distant past, but can you…?"
"Of course. If anyone has a right to know, its you," Irene replied with a firm nod, as she steeled herself for the tale to come. "After all, it was during the fall that I met Zeref, and by extension, you."
Natsu adjusted himself into a comfortable position, as Irene looked directly into his eyes and began to speak.
"This is me coming clean about everything, Natsu… About Erza, and why I abandoned her…"
***POTD***
My story begins seven hundred and ninety-two years ago, one year prior to what the modern world calls 'Age Zero,' the beginning of the modern international calendar.
Back then, the world as you know it today was divided up into thousands of smaller villages, tribes, fiefdoms and, at the largest, city states. However, in the lead-up to Age Zero, several city states had grown considerably powerful, their influence beginning to swallow up the many unique groups around them.
As you may remember, the mobile city of Nirvana was one such city state. A walking fortress that effortlessly conquered all in its path utilizing the powers gifted to them through the essence of Lord Ravus, former God of Discord.
Another city state was the mountain Kingdom of Kryden, worshipers of an ancient and powerful Sun God. The near insurmountable climb made traditional invasion impossible, and their strange Primal Magics warded off any and all attempts by Magic or technology to invade from all other avenues, shrouding their lands in mystery.
And then, there was the mighty Kingdom known as Dragnof, the one where my tale begins…
Dragnof was a recently formed Kingdom, founded through the alliance of twenty-two Human tribes, along with new arrivals to the continent that would one day be known as Ishgar. The Dragons.
The Kingdom was founded where Castle Valtheim stands today, the crumbling castle all that remains of a once thriving Kingdom. Founded by Human and Dragon, it was a society that served to foster the ideals and beliefs of its two key founders.
Peaceful coexistence, a desire for a prosperous future, and the strength to dream for a calmer, gentler world. These were the core tenets Dragnof had been founded upon.
Dragnof had no Council or governing body. Instead, its citizens supported but two rulers. The representative of the Dragons, and the representative of the Humans. The pair, Dragon and Human, stood as Dragnof's King and Queen, guiding Dragnof with a fair and steady touch that ushered in a golden age for the continent, which had been ravaged by Nirvana and other ruthless city states like it.
The representative of the Dragons was an Ancient Dragon, far older than any other known to even their own kind. With a form as large as a mountain range, and the strength to match it, he was none other than the Dragon Sage Monarch Belserion, the oldest and wisest of the Dragon race.
Despite his intimidating appearance, not a single subject feared his presence, Dragon or Human. Viewed by all as a loving, almost grandfatherly figure, Belserion could often be found lazing about, or entertaining the children of Dragnof, his bellows audible across the Kingdom quite often.
But never far from Belserion's side, was the representative of the Humans, and Belserion's dearest friend.
The Queen of Dragnof was none other than myself.
Irene of Tsufl was my name, as Humans in my corner of the world had yet to adopt surnames like those of today. Tsufl being my former village, before it had been invaded and destroyed by a neighboring village for resources.
Having aided Belserion at his most vulnerable a short time after leaving my village, I became known far and wide as the Human who befriended a Dragon. Word quickly spread, and eventually, change along with it.
Tribes who had been on the losing end of various wars, Dragons from the distant land of Draconia, and others, all flocked to where Belserion and I had been staying. Eventually, the Dragnof Kingdom was formed.
Our Kingdom grew rapidly, the Dragons and Humans working together to develop new technologies, new Magics, anything that would ensure Dragnof could weather the storms that surrounded it on all sides.
But it would be one of these storms, that would ultimately spell Dragnof's doom.
***POTD***
The Kingdom of Dragnof was bathed in the warmth of the midday sun, with nary a cloud in the sky. The lush forests surrounding the city were abuzz with activity, as workers moved about, harvesting all manner of fruits, flowers and branches.
At the city gate, a tall and imposing structure, two strong guards stood watch. Clad in bulky iron armor, and wielding long, imposing lances, they watched citizens enter and exit the gates, not too worried about anything suspicious.
One of the guards looked down the main road, which led up to the castle at the center of the city, they could see a large, violet colored Dragon landing in the street, dropping down onto its belly as another red Dragon grabbed several trees off of its back that it had been carrying.
Nearby, a sizeable park was abuzz with activity, as an older blue Dragon watched a clutch of hatchlings running around in the open field, their wings too small to allow them the ability to fly, as they flapped them rapidly, gaining momentum for a few moments before dropping back down.
Sitting next to the blue Dragon were several Humans who appeared to be on their lunch break, their robes stained with dirt as they ate some bread before downing some cheese. One of the men was about to eat his bit of cheese, when one of the hatchlings bumped into his leg. Looking down, the man laughed and looked up to the blue Dragon who nodded, as the man gave the cheese to the hatchling.
All in all, another peaceful day in the Kingdom of Dragnof.
However, everyone stopped as a massive shadow suddenly appeared over the city, all eyes looking skyward to see a colossal sized golden Dragon. Everyone stopped what they were doing, as the golden Dragon landed in front of the palace, making its way inside…
***POTD***
Castle Dragnof was abuzz with activity, as both Dragon and Human scrambled about frantically due to the unexpected visitor. The golden Dragon was hastily led to the palace gardens, standing before a Dragon of similar size.
The scarlet-colored Dragon grumbled, seemingly asleep as it dozed under a large tree. The Dragon, unlike most others, had four massive wings furled at its side, its body covered in battle scars, its scales old and weathered. It had a long, blade-like tail and two horns protruding from the side of its head, a third emerging just above its snout.
"Working hard as ever I see?"
"Mmhm… I thought I smelt something most unusual," the slumbering Dragon replied, opening a single, scarlet-colored eye to view the Dragon before him. "You know I'm not as young as I used to be Xicor… You can't just show up unannounced, else, how am I to prepare?"
"You're only five thousand and twelve my friend," Xicor replied quietly, something that drew the other Dragon's attention. "I think you can afford to wake for one of the rare times I stand before you unannounced… Belserion?"
King Of The Dragnof Kingdom
The Voice Of All Mortal Dragons On Earthland
The Oldest Dragon In The World
The Sage Dragon Monarch
Belserion
"Fine," Belserion yawned tiredly. "What ails you my friend?"
"Draconia has fallen."
Belserion froze mid-yawn, both eyes widening as he shot to his feet with speed that belied his age.
"WHAT!?"
"It happened three days ago," Xicor continued, shocking the Dragon Sage to his core, his four wings fully unfurled as he struggled to process the information. "I managed to save a few, but…"
"You mean to tell me that even High King Grendel was slain!?"
"Correct. It appears the folly of the Draconia Dragons has borne fruit, just as we predicted it would. One of their slaves has risen up and butchered them to the last."
"To the last… Do you mean that-?"
"The Males, the Females, the hatchlings, the eggs," Xicor whispered, clearly just as upset as Belserion. "An abomination has risen, Belserion, and it will not rest until every last Dragon has been slain."
"This abomination you speak of my friend…Tell me more?"
"I still don't know all the details just yet, but I'll tell you what I know," Xicor replied, as he moved to sit down on the grass. "His name is Achnologia, and he was a former slave who they tried to do away with, from what I've been told. Somehow, the slave survived, and killed a Dragon, absorbing its strength as his own."
"Through blood?"
"That was how he grew stronger from the first few victims, yes. But then, he started devouring Dragons whole," Xicor replied grimly. "He seems to know the secret of where Dragons derive the bulk of their power from, and has since begun targeting those areas specifically when devouring our kind."
"And you're telling me he's defeated the entirety of Draconia's Dragons, adding their power to his own?"
"Correct."
"How can this be…I don't understand how this is possible?"
"There is…an abnormality about this Achnologia," Xicor spoke, clearly unsure of what he was saying. "Some of the Gods in Terminus who have assisted me in this matter have told me that the Achnologia who crawled his way out of the muck and slew his first Dragon, doesn't belong…"
"What does that mean?"
"I don't know? I'll need to do some more enquiries," Xicor sighed, shaking his head. "But it seems like they think that the Achnologia who we're dealing with now has some sort of quirk to him, one that allowed him to get as far as he did?"
"What is the plan to deal with this Achnologia then?"
"…There isn't one."
"Excuse me? I must have just misheard you Xicor," Belserion growled, revealing several rows of razor-sharp teeth and a forked tongue. "You don't have a plan to eliminate this menace!?"
"How can I plan around something I possess no knowledge on," Xicor snapped back venomously. "No one can figure out what makes this Achnologia unique! He's a strange mutant that does things not even the Gods fully understand!?"
"So, you plan on doing nothing about it!?"
"I never said that Belserion," Xicor roared, shaking the entire castle to its foundations. "I came here today to warn you of what's coming your way…"
"W-What's coming my way," Belserion repeated, feeling a lightness in his body he hadn't felt in several millennia. "You mean to tell me that this Achnologia is on his way to Dragnof as we speak!?"
"He's devoured most of the Dragons in Draconia, Belserion, which means he likely knows where this place is, and that there are Dragons here," Xicor replied as calmly as he could. "I've come to ask you to get the Dragons here to leave these Humans, and return with me to Terminus until we can think of a plan-."
"Absolutely not."
"W-What did you just say!?"
"Absolutely not," Belserion repeated firmly, stomping his right fore claw into the ground in protest. "How dare you even suggest such a move Xicor!"
"I dare because its realistic! Achnologia is targeting the Dragons, so we need to get you all out of here and into the safety of the higher realms for the moment! Once there, you'll be safe from this abomination-!"
"And leave Dragnof and the Human citizens at Achnologia's mercy!?"
"Better a few Humans die than what remains of the Dragons of Earthland-!"
"I'LL NOT STAND FOR IT," Belserion roared, unleashing a titanic amount of Magical Power. "The Humans and Dragons of Draconia stand as one! UNITED! How DARE you even suggest we abandon them Xicor! Did you discard your honor and pride when you became Dragon God!?"
"This isn't about pride or honor, Belserion! This is about survival-!"
"The Humans and Dragons who share this city came together with a dream, Xicor. It was a dream of peace, of prosperity, and cooperation! The Humans and Dragons within this city are MY responsibility, and I will NOT allow you ruin all we have worked to achieve!"
"Then you'll die a fool's death," Xicor growled in reply, the two Dragons getting in each other's faces.
"I'd rather die fighting the spawn of hatred Draconia spat out than become the progenitor of a second," Belserion spat in response, which actually seemed to stun the Dragon God. "My immediate concern is the safety and well-being of ALL Dragnof's citizens, be they Dragon or Human. That's the end of it."
"You doom the Dragon Race with your foolishness, Belserion," Xicor sighed, shaking his head as he stepped back from the old Dragon. "How can you not put your own kind first during this time of crisis?"
"I am putting my own kind first, Xicor. Dragnof and her citizens ARE my kind, and I'll be doing everything within my power to ensure that they are safe!"
"What you speak is madness Belserion! Do you truly believe that you alone will be able to defeat what all the Dragon Monarchs of Draconia couldn't!? You can't possibly emerge victorious from all this!?"
"Define the parameters for what classifies a victory," Belserion replied firmly. "You wish for me to have the Dragons here up and abandon the Humans, condemning them to certain death. Achnologia may have been a Human, but those within Dragnof are not Achnologia, but are innocents! The Human Race is not Achnologia, nor do they bear the responsibility for him! That burden falls upon the Dragon Race, and our arrogance…"
"What are you getting at?"
"Humans are beings with limitless potential Xicor, don't you see? Achnologia might be a product of his environment in Draconia, but you mustn't forget that he merely capitalized on the tools he had and took full advantage of them? What if…What if we gave these Humans the same opportunity Achnologia had, only willingly?"
"Are you MAD, Belserion!? You wish to willingly imbue Humans with the power of Dragons like the abomination!?"
"I have my theories, and have for many centuries now…"
"Why do you trust and care for these Humans so much Belserion? You used to despise them, mocking their fragile existence?"
"I learned the error of my ways, and have been doing all I can to make up for my treatment of them in the past. There is a bright future for Human and Dragon alike, if only we strive toward it together, united!"
"Your foolishness will ensure only Humans are around to reap the benefits, Belserion," Xicor sighed, shaking his head in clear disappointment. "Is this your final answer then? Will you not gather the Dragons of Dragnof and return to Terminus where it is safe?"
"The Dragons of Dragnof shall remain here, alongside the Humans of Dragnof. We shall face the coming storm together!"
Xicor didn't respond, turning away as he opened a portal and departed for Terminus. Belserion sighed, shaking his head as he looked up toward the clear skies above, pondering the future.
"Belserion!"
The Dragon Sage blinked, looking back down toward the entrance of the courtyard, seeing the delightful form of Irene moving toward him with all the haste she could muster.
"Slow down Irene," Xicor spoke, arching his neck forward and laying down so she didn't have to move so far to reach him. "You shouldn't be running about like that in your condition!"
Irene grinned in reply, her shoulder length scarlet hair blowing in the wind behind her as she placed a hand on her bulging belly. Despite wearing a sizeable sundress, Irene's pregnancy was rather visible, as she rubbed it lovingly.
"You're such a worrywart Belserion. They say that exercise is good for pregnant women, right?"
"Who said that?"
"Uh…I don't remember," Irene giggled, placing a hand on Belserion's snout. "But its alright, I'm fine anyway. See?"
"Just be careful Irene, alright? I don't know the specifics of Human females and their pregnancy cycles, but I doubt you're supposed to sprint around like that?"
"…Look, I heard what Lord Xicor was asking of you," Irene muttered quietly, as the Dragon Sage hummed audibly, not really too surprised. "You stood your ground against the Dragon God for Humans…"
"I did. Were you worried I wouldn't?"
"Truthfully, I wasn't entirely sure," Irene replied, an answer that seemed to please the Dragon Sage. "His argument was sound when you think about it? Many Humans would put Humanity first over Dragons."
"Just as many Dragons would put us over Humanity," Belserion agreed. "However, that is precisely why I rejected Xicor's offer to shelter the Dragons, but leave you Humans at the mercy of this Achnologia. To abandon you all now would only further justify the animosity between our two species, wouldn't it?"
"It would ruin everything we've worked for Belserion," Irene sighed, pressing her forehead up against the Dragon's snout. "Even my Husband is still skeptical about if we can truly coexist with Dragons…"
"Yes, well… I'll be honest, I don't particularly find Rung to be an agreeable man," Belserion grumbled, amusing Irene greatly. "What!?"
"You're such a worrywart Belserion! You're acting like my Grandfather!"
"N-Nonsense," the Dragon Sage huffed. "I'm just concerned about you Irene! Besides, it's not like you can entirely disagree with me? After all, you've yet to tell him that you're pregnant, have you?"
"I-I kind of hoped he'd get the hint by now," Irene admitted, rubbing her stomach gently. "I suppose I should tell him soon…"
"What kind of mate is he," Belserion grumbled. "How does he not even notice you're pregnant?"
"L-Let's not look too far into it Belserion," Irene replied weakly. "Rung's just really busy running the military… Oh! Why don't we talk about that idea I was discussing with you the other day-?"
"Again? Irene, we've been over this…"
"But it might work!"
"And it might not," the Sage Dragon replied grimly. "The idea of giving Humans the ability to wield the Magic of Dragons is, on the surface, one I wholeheartedly support, don't get me wrong. But the only methods that have ever been used to test it were…"
"Through the use of slaves, I know," Irene replied quietly, before meeting the Dragon's gaze. "But this time it doesn't need to be like that Belserion! I've been doing some research, and I think I've figured out how to make it work!"
"…I'm not agreeing to this. But let's say that, hypothetically, I did agree? How do you believe you'd accomplish getting a Human to wield Dragon Magic?"
"Well, I was looking over the existing experiment notes about how the Humans in Draconia rejected all methods of injecting the Magic of Dragons into their Magical Cores, right? Like, their bodies quite literally forced it out?"
"That's common knowledge, yes."
"What if its because the Humans of Draconia bore so much hatred, disdain and malice toward the Dragons due to their harsh treatment, that their own Magic rejects all attempts to integrate their Magic," Irene suggested. "Studies have shown a correlation between Magic and the emotional state of a living being, right? So, what if we tried a gentler infusion using someone who holds the opposite of hatred, disdain and malice? Someone who loves, cherishes and adores Dragons!?"
"Irene… You do realize that its more complicated than the emotional state of the one receiving the Dragon Magic, right?"
"Well of course it is, but I believe it's a key component," Irene huffed in reply. "I was also thinking, since you're the almighty Dragon Sage with millennia of experience, you'd be the best Dragon candidate to grant their powers first, right?"
"Are you suggesting what I think you're suggesting?"
"I am," Irene replied firmly. "I think it's a risk that I alone should take."
"But you aren't alone, are you," Belserion countered evenly. "I understand your enthusiasm, but you're forgetting about the little passenger in your belly, aren't you? The process risks your life, let alone the life of an unborn infant? If we went through with it, then your child could potentially die? Are you willing to take that risk?"
"If you had asked me that question up until recently, I'd have agreed with you, and waited. However, this Achnologia is coming for our home Belserion, coming for Dragnof! This Dragon is a threat to all our subjects, and I can't in good conscience do nothing and allow all we've worked for to be destroyed by an avatar of hate and rage!"
"No one would think any less of you for stepping aside, Irene," Belserion replied gently, as she placed her hand back on his snout. "If there's one thing I've learned over my long life, its that the little ones are the most precious gift we possess. It is why I shall fight to protect Dragnof, even if it costs me my life."
"And it's why I'm willing to risk the life of myself and my child too," Irene replied calmly, pressing her forehead up against Belserion's snout. "I dearly wish for my child to be born, but I want them to be born to a world of peace and love, not chaos and hate. If I can't do all that I can to see that world realized, then I don't deserve to be a Mother!"
"Irene," Belserion sighed, seeing the determined look on the young woman's face. "You've not changed one bit since we first met. As stubborn and reckless as ever…"
Irene giggled in response, only to gasp as Belserion's snout gently tapped her pregnant belly, a faint white light engulfing her form before fading away.
"W-What was that?"
"It's a girl."
"Wait… You had a spell you could use to check my baby?"
"Not knowing is usually half the fun, isn't it? I didn't tell you because it would've ruined the surprise," Belserion explained. "But now I feel it necessary to reveal the child to you. So, tell me, Irene… Are you still willing to accept the risks, despite knowing that there's a beautiful, healthy, and rather Magic rich girl growing in that womb of yours?"
Irene placed a hand on Belserion's snout, and another on her pregnant belly, as she looked up to the clear skies of Dragnof. She pondered the question for but a moment, a small smile worming its way onto her face.
"Even if I die Belserion, I know my baby will survive in the end… After all, you'll be there every step of the way, right?"
"…Your resolve is strong, like that of a true Dragon," Belserion whispered, touched by the words of his Human friend. "Very well. If you are absolutely sure that this is what you want, I will make preparations for the procedure. However, you must promise me one thing!"
"Name it."
"Should something ever happen to me, you must not lose this resolve," Belserion warned her firmly, meeting her gaze with his own. "Should your resolve waver so much as a sliver, the effects could be disastrous, and not just on you."
"Well, that's an easy promise to make, isn't it," Irene smiled happily. "You aren't going anywhere, so I've got nothing to fear!"
Belserion smiled externally to his friend, but internally he was anything but calm. His thoughts turned toward the Draconia situation, and the chaos that was headed to their lands.
' I dare say that this world shall soon be in your hands, Irene? I only hope that once I'm gone, you'll continue to make the right choices… '
***POTD***
Two weeks passed by in an instant for me, as Belserion performed the first ever procedure to ingrain the power of a Dragon into a Human.
At the time, I had assumed Belserion was going to use the traditional method to induce the abilities within me through Magic Core manipulation. However, he appeared to have taken an alternate route…
Or perhaps, Belserion knew the way to successfully do it all along, and chose not to assist the Dragons of Draconia in that regard?
Either way, I was the first Human to survive the process, though I slumbered as my body took to what he had done…
***POTD***
As Irene slept peacefully within the open courtyard the procedure had taken place, Belserion snoozed next to her. The Sage Dragon Monarch dutifully refused to leave her side, his every waking moment spent ensuring her well-being, something the Dragon was annoyed to see her Husband didn't seem to want to do.
Suddenly, as if a light switch had been flicked on in his brain, the Dragon's eyes snapped open. His head immediately shot upright, the nearby Dragons and Humans all startled by his sudden movement.
"So, you've finally come," Belserion snarled, rising to his full height, snarling as he unfurled all four of his wings. "I had hoped we'd have more time, but it seems Fate held other plans…"
Looking down at Irene, he knew he had little choice but to rush the rest of the procedure, and hope Irene's resolve to see it through would hold true. Pressing his snout up against her stomach.
"I'm sorry Irene, but this is farewell," the Dragon Sage spoke aloud, shocking everyone else present. "May you and your baby girl live happy and healthy lives!"
There was a bright flash of light, as Belserion began to growl, feeling like his very soul was being sucked out of his body. The Dragon Monarch carefully channeled it to her Magic Core, hoping his plan would work.
"I hope this Dragon Seed I designed works," the Sage Dragon groaned, forced three quarters worth of his power into the container, before abruptly severing the connection, as he stumbled backward. "There…Success…Huzzah!"
"Lord Belserion, what did you do," one of the Human Doctors asked frantically, as the panting Dragon Sage looked between the Humans and the Dragons.
"I've finished the procedure… Take Irene to her chambers and do not allow her to leave under any circumstances," Belserion ordered, as the smaller Dragon nearby allowed the Humans to place Irene onto her back. "As of this moment, Dragnof is under siege by the abomination Achnologia!"
"Should we assemble the armies, Lord Belserion!?"
"Assemble the Grand Army, and inform them that their mission is to ensure all the citizens who aren't fighting can safely get away," Belserion replied sharply, before stumbling forward. "It is…the last hope!"
"Lord Belserion, are you saying that…?"
"Make sure the innocents survive. That is my final order to you all as King," Belserion replied stoically, as he flapped his four wings and took to the skies. "The world is in your hands now, so treat it well!"
Letting loose a mighty roar, Belserion darted off in the direction he could sense the incoming threat, releasing a powerful shock-wave as he went.
***POTD***
Belserion moved as fast as his ancient body could take him, feeling the full effects of what he'd done earlier travel throughout his form.
"I guess inserting three quarters of my very being into Irene was bound to be a death sentence," the Dragon Sage huffed. "Still, less for that monster to steal, and it will allow me to buy the others time to escape…"
As he soared over a sea of trees, Dragnof no longer visible in the distance, Belserion noticed a rapidly approaching black and blue blur headed his way, and at a speed similar to his own.
Belserion and the blur didn't stop moving, passing one another as they abruptly halted. Neither Dragon turned to face the other, only the sound of their wing-beats echoing across the forest.
Suddenly, the four figures atop the back of the black Dragon moved to leap at Belserion. However, before they even had a chance to attack, the black Dragon let loose an earth shaking roar, halting them in place.
"My Lord, do you not wish for this one to be eliminated like the rest," one of the figures asked, as the black Dragon's hollow gaze moved from his subordinates, over to Belserion himself.
"Absolutely not," the black Dragon replied sharply. "Go on ahead and begin destroying the lesser Dragons! This one…Oh yes, this one is mine to kill…"
"His will be done," all four chanted in unison, as they shot off in the direction of the Dragnof Kingdom.
"I take it you must be the abomination I was told about," Belserion mused, taking in the Dragon's full appearance. "Achnologia, the Human turned Dragon?"
"That I am. And you are known to me, Belserion! Sage Dragon Monarch, and a master of ALL the known Dragon Elements! To think that you still live, even after five millennia, despite the countless battles you've been embroiled in!?"
"Do not speak of me as if you know me, abomination," Belserion spat in response. "The memories of my slain kin are a hollow substitute for real experiences, both in and out of combat!"
"That may be so, but they still serve me all the same regardless," Achnologia smirked cruelly in reply. "Their knowledge, experience, skills and memories all shall serve me well in wiping out the entirety of your disgusting race! And yours shall be the stepping stone needed to secure true dominance over the entire race!"
"So sorry to inform you that I won't be giving you any of those things," Belserion replied coldly. "You'll not be gaining anything from me, abomination, even if you manage to overcome me!"
"Kehehehehehe… Such confidence you bear, yet well warranted," Achnologia laughed. "But I know that unlike all the others I slew, you mean every word of what you said. However, there's one thing you've yet to realize about me…"
"And what's that?"
"Put simply, I will be adding everything that you are to my own Belserion, regardless of what you have to say in the matter! I'm sure that fool Xicor made it clear that not even all the Dragons of Draconia united could stop me, so you won't either!"
"Your arrogance shall be your final undoing, Achnologia," Belserion snarled, as blue flames escaped Achnologia's maw. "I won't allow you to harm anyone else without a fight!"
Both Belserion and Achnologia began to release a titanic amount of Magical Power, the forest below them being completely uprooted just from the pressure of their Magic alone, as the earth beneath them split cleanly in two.
Dark clouds formed above the pair, lightning raining down around the pair as fierce winds and heavy rain began to lash the devastated region. The two Dragons at the center of it all refusing to back down.
Belserion (Resolved + Critically Weakened By Seventy Five Percent + Rapidly Weakening Constitution) – 17.88 Trillion MPI
Achnologia (A*1* Active + Elemental Core Feasting + Full Power) – 12.29 Trillion MPI
The two Dragons roared as they shot toward one another, their heads slamming into one another, Belserion's horns piercing through Achnologia's skull, eliciting a pained grunt from the black Dragon.
"I declare YOU as my enemy, Belserion! I'll ensure you feel every last bit of what's coming," the Apocalypse Dragon roared, as the pair pushed back against one another, separating from their clash. "Apocalypse Dragon Monarch's Roar!"
"Sage Dragon Monarch's Deathblight Roar!"
Both Dragons released massive breath attacks that easily eclipsed the size of mountains, destroying countless hectares of land before they even clashed. Once they did, the attacks were dead even, as Belserion's seemed to match Achnologia's strange bluish one, until they exploded.
Both Dragons were pushed back, as the earth beneath them cracked right open, bubbling and boiling magma shooting to the surface in an abrupt and violent manner. Achnologia suddenly emerged from the center of the blast zone, being sent crashing directly into the magma, roaring in anger as Belserion reappeared nearby, panting slightly.
"Rest assured," Belserion huffed, arching his neck back. "I see you as my enemy too! Sage Dragon Monarch's Magma Roar!"
From Belserion's maw spewed forth even more molten magma, as Achnologia burst to the surface of the deadly liquid, only to be pushed back down deeper my an even denser amount of it. The Sage Dragon kept it up, before abruptly ceasing his attack, and preparing another breath attack.
"Sage Dragon Monarch's Aquatic Roar!"
This time, Belserion unleashed a nearly endless spout of water from his maw. So much so in fact, that the entire crater quickly drowned in its cool depths. The magma reacted predictably, as it began to cool and harden, trapping Achnologia deep within.
'I doubt this will be enough to finish him… But it doesn't hurt to hope,' Belserion panted, wincing as he felt his power take a drastic hit. 'Darn… I can't keep this up for long-!'
Belserion was caught off guard as Achnologia burst through the newly formed earth, teeth barred and tackled him right out of the sky. The pair roared, slashing at one another with their claws, biting at each other's faces as they each tried to go for the throat.
Once they hit the ground, Belserion rolled as Achnologia slashed him across the face, cutting through his scales like butter as blood spurted out across the earth, the Sage Dragon Monarch roaring in pain, arching his neck.
"Sage Dragon Monarch's Lightpulsar Roar!"
Striking Achnologia in the head, the Apocalypse Dragon skidded backward, slamming into a nearby rock formation before being blasted right through it. Belserion meanwhile clutched his face with his right fore-claw.
'That's a deep one… To think he was able to cut through my scales with such ease!? Even in my weakened form, for a youngster to do so much damage…"
Belserion barely had a second to recover as Achnologia charged him once again, the Sage Dragon attempting to dodge, only to stumble as his condition continued to deteriorate.
"You're mine," Achnologia roared, sinking his teeth into Belserion's upper right wing, snapping the bone with practiced ease, as he tore it off in one clean pull.
Belserion roared in agony as Achnologia pierced his neck with his claws, lifting him up into the air as he arched his neck back, Aqua Blue light escaping his maw.
"Apocalypse Dragon Monarch's Roar!"
Belserion was blasted at point blank range by the powerful breath attack, sending him plummeting back to the earth, his body being ripped apart. Upon impact, Achnologia's attack set off a massive explosion, destroying countless hectares of land in a blast that could be seen across the country.
Despite all this though, the Dragon Sage held on, even as his vision blackened ever so slightly. Looking down, he could see his own reflection in the blood that was pooling before him, his face cut open and mangled beyond recognition.
' The rest of my life force is being drawn to Irene… Irene… Irene… '
As Belserion pulled himself together, Achnologia landed before him, slowly advancing toward the severely wounded Dragon, sneering in disgust at what he saw.
"This is the power of the revered Sage Dragon Monarch? The supposed strongest Monarch Class Dragon that bears all the accumulated knowledge of Dragons since their arrival in this world," Achnologia scoffed. "Seeing your bloodied, beaten and broken body lie before me now… It disgusts me. It took no effort to crush you! Even fledgling Dragons put up more of a fight before I gutted them and harvested their internal Lacrima!?"
Belserion wheezed as blood poured from his maw, the Sage Dragon Monarch rising to his feet to seemingly challenge Achnologia once more. His shaky vision caught sight of his torn wing, and he knew he had little choice but to try one last ditch attempt to at least stall the Apocalypse Dragon.
'Sorry Irene… I'm going to need to be a little bit selfish and keep this last scrap of power I'd hoped to transfer to you before I died,' the Monarch thought, as his Magical Power suddenly began to skyrocket well beyond what Achnologia had sensed earlier. 'I bet you're up there laughing at me right now Xicor, old friend. I won't apologize but… I pray you find a way to destroy this beast…'
"What is this," Achnologia hissed, taking multiple steps back as Magic Circles of all shapes, sizes and colours began to form all around Belserion's position. "You should be near death! JUST GIVE UP ALREADY AND FORFEIT YOUR POWER TO ME!"
' Irene… Oh, Irene… I-I pray to the Gods hat you are capable of finding peace in the world to come, and that one day you are free from the tyranny of this monster! I-I-! '
"You shouldn't be able to fight back," Achnologia roared, arching his neck back as he began charging a much more powerful variant of his breath attack. "I WON'T ALLOW EVEN ONE OF YOUR KIND TO GET THE BEST OF ME! NOT NOW, NOT EVER!"
"Your crimes will catch up with you one day Achnologia," Belserion spoke, as all the Magic Circles began rotating in clockwise motions as they merged together, forming a massive one right in front of Belserion's position. "No Dragon is truly immortal, not even you!"
"WHAT IS THIS…POWEEEERRRR-!"
"The time of Dragons may come to a close by your claw, Achnologia! But the time of Men shall succeed it, irrespective of your absurd delusions!"
A silver colored light began to form at the centre of the Magic Circle, as it slowly began rotating clockwise the moment Belserion opened his maw. Achnologia was still backing away, still charging his own attack, though his eyes were wide, almost fearful.
"If there is a true Hell Achnologia… I'm most certain I shall see you there," Belserion cried out, as his vision darkened even further, the ghostly visage of Irene smiling at him crossing his hazy vision one final time, giving the old Dragon the strength to continue. "Sage Dragon Monarch's Secret Art: Elemental Commandment – Periodic Purification Wave!"
Achnologia fired his attack right as Belserion unleashed one of the most powerful attacks Earthland had endured since his arrival. Upon its deployment, half of Ishgar was immediately enveloped in a bright, silver light, as countless natural disasters struck all over the continent.
As for Achnologia himself, within seconds of firing his attack, it had already been engulfed by Belserion's, the Apocalypse Dragon roaring as he had been pushed out of Ishgar, currently being dragged across the seafloor before striking the next continent over.
The attack continued, dragging him up onto land, pushing Achnologia even further inland, with the black Dragon well and truly subdued for the time being.
Belserion kept the attack going for as long as he could, feeling his power rapidly decreasing each second until finally…
"Ngh-!"
The attack ceased instantly, as Belserion keeled over, his heart having stopped on him. The Sage Dragon Monarch's vision rapidly began to fade, his claw reaching out in the direction of Dragnof.
' Live well…Irene Belserion… '
With that, the Sage Dragon Monarch passed away, content that he'd done all he could.
***POTD***
Two weeks had passed since Belserion had set off to face Achnologia in battle, as Irene began to stir.
Slowly, the woman rose up into a sitting position, feeling rather groggy as she tried to figure out where she was. The sound of an explosion outside brought her to her senses, however, as she shakily rose to her feet, making her way toward the window.
"W-What the…?"
"The forest outside Dragnof was ablaze, Dragons were cut down by Humans, and Humans slaughtered by Dragons. The sight was so bizarre to her, that Irene initially assumed she was dreaming.
"Wait a minute… Those flames aren't of Human or Dragon origin? Wait, how do I know that?"
Irene felt rather light headed, as countless thoughts, senses and feelings rushed into her, causing her to nearly fall down. Fortunately, she was able to sit on the edge of her bed until the feeling passed, moving to rub her sore head with her fingers.
"W-What!?"
Irene stilled, feeling something rough run across her forehead, quickly looking down to see her once Human arm had become more Dragon-like, her fingers now sharp claws, her arm covered in scales.
"What…?"
Shakily rising to her feet, Irene moved over to her mirror and recoiled in shock, noticing scales had sprouted across her body, her arms and legs almost fully transformed into claws, her teeth much pointier and sharper.
"Wait, I know what this is," Irene murmured, as more strange memories flooded her senses. "This is because of…because of…no…"
Irene burst into tears as memories of Belserion's final moments flooded into her mind, the pain he endured during his battle, and his desire to protect her and Dragnof at the forefront of his priorities.
Irene fell to her knees, her cries shaking the entire section of the castle, as a man burst into the room shouting her name, only to recoil in shock at her appearance.
"What on Earthland are you, monster!?"
"R-Rung," Irene sniffed, trying to pull herself together. "Rung its me, Irene! How can you not recognize me!?"
"You aren't Irene," Rung snarled, attempting to slash at her with his sword, only for Irene to narrowly avoid his attack, shielding her stomach as she fell. "GUARDS! Help me capture this beast at once!"
At Rung's command, a group of guards charged into the room, quickly subduing the distressed and distraught Irene before she could even register what happened, as her world went black once more.
"Take this…this THING to the dungeons," Rung ordered his men, who nodded immediately. "It likely knows where the rest of the scalebacks fled!"
***POTD***
And so began my imprisonment and torture.
Grieving over the loss of Belserion, and coming to terms with the love of my life seeing me as sub-Human, I was so out of it the torture of the first few years simply didn't register. The only thing that I could think of throughout that time was my unborn child, and how I needed to save her.
It was always Belserion's dream to dote upon my child when she was born, so I endured, wanting to fulfill his dream. However, bringing her into the world during my current predicament wasn't wise. Therefore, using my newfound understanding of Magic, gifted to me by Belserion, I chose to defy nature itself.
For five long, arduous years, I kept Erza within my womb, forcing all but one percent of my Magic into my womb in order to keep her safe. What excess Magic I did manage to save, I kept in the hope of one day escaping…
And then, one day, the Dragnof Kingdom was attacked and overrun by an unknown force.
I held little hope for myself, not having put away enough Magic to fight off even a common guard. I had braced myself as best I could, preparing my meager reserves only for a young teenager, no older than fifteen, to enter my cell.
Yes… That teen, was Zeref.
***POTD***
Irene was huddled in the corner of her cell, naked, shivering, and extremely emaciated aside from her stomach, which was in pristine condition.
Having prepared her harshest glare for the monster that was brutally slaughtering the guards, Irene was shocked when a black-haired young teen walked into view, grabbing the bars of the cell with one hand and casually ripping them out.
The teen smiled gently, his eyes glowing Crimson Red and Galaxy Blue, as he dropped into a kneeling position three meters away from her.
"There's no need to be afraid, I'm not going to harm you," the boy spoke gently, noticing Irene's near feral demeanor. "My name is Zeref, and I've come to free you."
"F-F-Free m-me," Irene stuttered, her body shivering from the cold. "W-Why!?"
"I've heard stories of you," Zeref replied gently. "A woman who bares the scales of a Dragon, held within the dungeon of the dying Kingdom of Dragnof. Its obvious you're being held here for no other crime than your appearance, correct?"
"Y-Y-Yes…"
"I thought so," the man replied sadly, shaking his head. "Well, like I said, I've come to free you."
"F-F-For what!?"
"All I ask is for your assistance?"
"W-What assistance," Irene asked, drawing a dark smile from the teen.
"I have a plan to kill a monster that has been ravaging the world for the last five years," Zeref explained. "It's a large black Dragon by the name of Achnologia-."
Irene grit her teeth, clenching her fists as she recalled every memory she held regarding Achnologia. Zeref seemed to understand her anger, snapping his fingers as her restraints withered away into dust.
The young teen then crawled close to her, and for some reason, she didn't feel as scared as before. The young man gently extended a hand out toward her, the same gentle smile on his face.
"Will you be the first one to join me in fixing this broken world?"
Irene looked between the man's eyes, and the offered hand, before shakily taking it, savoring the warmth it provided.
"If it means slaying Achnologia, I'll serve until my dying breath," Irene whispered, as Zeref helped her to her feet.
The woman could barely stand, groaning in pain as she clutched her stomach, something Zeref immediately took note of.
"That child is long overdue within you," Zeref noted, as he picked up Irene bridal style. "I will assist you in delivering the child once we're free of this place."
"T-Thank you," Irene replied, the pain in her stomach near excruciating. "Please let it be soon!"
"No more than five minutes, I promise," Zeref smiled lightly. "So, do you have a name?"
Irene knew Zeref was just distracting her from the pain, but appreciated it all the same. Smiling as best as she could, she placed a hand on her belly as she recalled her best friend.
"Belserion…Irene Belserion…"
"Well then, Irene Belserion, I'm Zeref Dragneel," the teen smirked, as they walked out into the ruined courtyard of Dragnof, thousands of dead bodies littering the grounds. "Now, let's get that baby out of you, eh?"
***POTD***
Zeref was true to his word.
Not five minutes after he'd freed me, I went into labour and little Erza was born. I can scarcely describe how it felt to deliver her, to hold her in my arms after five grueling years of torture and madness…
Erza was the light at the end of the dark tunnel, and for the few years I raised her, she was the main driving force behind all that I'd done.
But eventually, the acts Zeref and I were committing began to weigh heavily on my mind. We'd been experimenting on countless Humans, perfecting the techniques to create Demons designed to slay Achnologia.
The ultimate goal, I learned shortly after joining Zeref, was to perfect the Demon Creation Process and use it on you, Natsu. It was a worthy goal, and one I fully empathized with, but our dark deeds were piling up, and Erza was beginning to retain memories…
I began to feel unworthy of Erza, and didn't want her growing up in such a dark environment with foul influences such as myself and Zeref. For some time, I didn't know what to do, until the day a woman approached us, along with Igneel and the other Dragons who would later go on to be sealed within your friends.
The woman's name was Anna Heartfilia, someone Zeref apparently knew, and she looked after the children as if they were her own. When the time game to use the Eclipse Gate, and send the children into the future, as you know, I requested Anna take Erza along with you all, giving her the same mind wipe and falsification of new memories.
Anna agreed, and from there, I'm sure you know Erza's story better than I…
***POTD***
Irene finished speaking, her voice shaky and her eyes misty. It was clear this was an extremely tough topic for the Spriggan Mage, and knowing what he did now, Natsu couldn't even blame her.
"Anyway, that's a small snippet into my life. Obviously, I had to live the next seven centuries, so there are other things that happened. But that's not important to me," Irene sighed, as she took his hands with her own. "I wanted you to know that Erza meant the world to me, and I didn't send her away because I didn't love or want her. I sent her away to live a better life, free from the dark machinations of what I had become…"
Natsu remained silent as he processed all that the woman had told him. The pair had been sitting there for over four hours as she told him her story. It was one that explained quite a lot about her character, and he was glad to know Erza had a Mother who actually did care about her.
"Considering what you've been through, I'm shocked you aren't completely insane, or devoid of all humanity," Natsu replied honestly, gently squeezing her hands. "I'm no saint either, but you've suffered Irene, there's no doubt about it. The fact that you were willing to explain all this to me is proof you aren't a bad person. But I have to ask…?"
"What is it?"
"Are you ever going to reveal your existence to Erza," Natsu asked curiously. "Because you do realize that, as her fiancée, I really should be telling her about everything you told me?"
"I don't know… I wasn't there for her, and from what I'm told the place Anna left her only led to Erza suffering harshly," Irene replied quietly. "Would she even want to know me? As far as she's concerned, we're enemies?"
"How about this," Natsu sighed," chuckling as he ran a hand through his hair. "How about you reveal who you are to Erza, and I'll invite you to our wedding?"
"Y-Y-You would invite me to your wedding!?"
"You are the Mother of the bride, so yes," Natsu smiled, feeling rather strange seeing Irene Belserion of all people about to burst into tears. "Deal?"
"Y-Yes! I-I need to work up the courage though… I-I'm not good at this sort of thing, so-!"
"Irene, settle down," Natsu chuckled, really taking a moment to process Irene as a person. "You know, Erza actually does that?"
"Does what?"
"Frets over stuff and vocalizes it."
"R-Really?"
"Really," Natsu smiled, when Irene suddenly pulled him in for a backbreaking hug, his face being pushed firmly between her breasts.
"You're such a good man Natsu Dragneel! Thank you so much for this opportunity," Irene cried, releasing him, as Natsu nearly collapsed unconscious.
"My spine…"
"I need to gather Brandish and Yasmin, we need to get back to Alvarez at once!"
"Already?"
"Of course! I need to begin rehearsing how I'm going to speak with Erza," Irene replied cheerfully, shooting to her feet and half sprinting toward the cave. "Until we meet again, my future Son in Law!"
"…"
"Too soon?"
"Way too soon."
"Fair enough," Irene sighed, calming herself down to a much more reasonable level. "I suppose the awkwardness will fade in time?"
"It will. Trust me," Natsu smiled, as Irene waved at him a final time, vanishing on the spot and being replaced by Seilah, who blinked at being moved around so suddenly.
"Master?"
"Irene's leaving with Brandish and Yasmin," Natsu explained, as the Demoness came over to his position. "That aside, I have a job for you. Its urgent."
"Say no more Master, I'm at your disposal."
"I'm going to be granting you access to my ability to conjure Gates, and I need you to go to Jellal, Ultear and Meredy, wherever they are, okay?"
"Okay Master. Anything else?"
"I need you to tell him that I sent you there because I want Crime Sorciere to find someone for me. This is a high priority thing Seilah, please stress that to him."
"I will Master. I can make siren noises if Jellal does not comply."
"…Uh, yeah, actually," Natsu chuckled, liking the sound of that more and more. "Do that if he doesn't do what you ask!"
"Okay Master. Who is the high priority person you want them to find?"
"I need them to find a woman…named Anna Heartfilia…