Chapter-13: One sided Slaughter

"M-mercy!"

Kawazu, a mage of Grimoire Heart, squirmed desperately in Gajeel's iron grip. His chicken-like features were twisted in terror as Gajeel's red, slitted eyes bore into him, cold and unrelenting.

Gajeel tightened his hold slightly, eliciting a choked gasp from the trembling man. "Who and what are you?" he growled, his voice low and menacing.

"K-Kawazu! I—I'm a mage of Grimoire Heart!" the man stammered, his words spilling out in fear.

Gajeel's gaze hardened. "What does Grimoire Heart want here?"

"I-I don't know!" Kawazu sputtered, his voice cracking.

Gajeel's grip on his neck tightened further, making the chicken-like mage gag. "Try again."

"Z-Zeref!" Kawazu finally choked out, the name spilling from his lips in desperation. "Zeref is here on the island… we—we're going to unseal him. That's all I know! Please, spare me!"

The man's plea hung in the air, trembling with terror. His wide eyes flicked to the grisly sight of his teammate—what little remained of him. The body lay crumpled and lifeless on the ground, limbs torn off and head caved in, a testament to Gajeel's brutal efficiency.

Gajeel's lips curled into a sneer, his grip unwavering. "Nah," he muttered coldly.

With a sharp twist of his hand, Gajeel snapped Kawazu's neck. The mage's body went limp, and Gajeel let it fall to the ground in a heap. He glanced down at the lifeless form, unbothered, his crimson eyes glowing faintly in the dim light.

"No one messes with us," he growled, stepping over the fallen bodies as he moved forward, his senses sharp and ready for the next challenge. Grimoire Heart would pay for setting foot on Tenrou Island—and Gajeel wasn't going to leave anyone standing.

With Erza

Magic slashes tore through trees and bodies alike with merciless precision, leaving destruction in their wake. Dark mages scattered, their screams of terror echoing through the forest.

"Dragon Magic: Flame Art - Flame Slash!"

Erza's voice rang out, fierce and commanding. Her flame-like crimson hair whipped around her, illuminated by the golden glow of the star-shaped pattern in her eyes. She stood amidst the carnage, her blade dripping with fiery magic.

Her eyes narrowed as she addressed the fleeing dark mages. "Is there no capable mage among you?" she demanded, her voice laced with disdain. "This is pathetic, even for dark mages."

The ground trembled suddenly as a massive figure landed before her with a thud, shaking the earth beneath them. The man was grotesquely overweight, his ridiculous outfit accentuating his bulk. He struck a dramatic pose, attempting to exude authority.

"Halt!" he bellowed, puffing out his chest.

Erza's expression twisted in disgust as she looked him over.

"I am Kain Hikaru, SS-Class Mage of Grimoire Heart and a proud member of the Seven Kin! Prepare to be slain by my unparalleled might!"

Kain's bravado was met with a withering glare from Erza. Her grip tightened on her sword as she took a step forward.

"A member of the Seven Kin, you say? Then it's you who must be slain," she interrupted coldly, her voice cutting through his bluster like a blade.

Kain's face contorted with offense. He stomped the ground, channeling his magic as he prepared to retaliate.

Kain Hikaru - (Dark Mage + Full Power) - 12.5 Million MPL

Erza sighed, her disappointment evident. "Barely an SS-Class," she muttered, shaking her head.

Kain's aura flared with greenish magic as he boomed, "Behold Kain's awesome power! Tremble before me—"

Before he could finish, Erza vanished in a blur of speed. She appeared directly in front of him, her sword aimed precisely at his chest.

"Dragon Magic: Flame Art - Piercing Inferno!"

The strike was swift and merciless. Her blade pierced his chest, and she channeled a torrent of fire magic through it. The flames erupted from the wound, consuming Kain in an instant. His body turned to ash in mere seconds, leaving nothing behind but a smoldering pile.

Erza gazed down at the remains, her disdain palpable.

"Pathetic," she declared, flicking her sword to rid it of the lingering embers before turning her back on the ashes, ready to face the next challenge Grimoire Heart dared to throw her way.

With Lucy

Lucy's determined shout echoed as she drove her fist forward, meeting the hardened hoof of her opponent in a resounding clash. The goat-like man smirked, effortlessly deflecting her blow.

SS-Class Dark Mage of Grimoire Heart

One of the Seven Kin

The Celestial Spirit

Caprico of the 12 Golden Zodiac

Lucy's eyes narrowed as she demanded, "Why are you doing this?"

Caprico's expression remained indifferent, his tone calm and dismissive. "I will not respond to you, girl."

Caprico - (Celestial Spirit + Full Power) - 14 Million MPL

Lucy's teeth clenched as magic surged through her body, enveloping her in a radiant glow. "All right," she said, her tone calm but resolute. "This is still new, but let's see how you handle it."

Caprico's mocking laugh echoed through the battlefield. "You think some flashy magic can change the outcome? Foolish girl."

A confident smile spread across Lucy's face. "This isn't just magic. This… is something my friends Natsu and Erza helped me achieve—my own Star Form."

As she spoke, her body transformed. This was not the usual Star Dress—this was the first stage of Lucy ascending toward becoming a celestial being herself.

The lower half was a flowing black dress with a white underside, slit up the middle to reveal an apron-like cloth tied at her waist. Beneath it was another skirt adorned with delicate frills. The upper part was white, with a plunging neckline and a corset laced with thin black ribbons. The dress had no sleeves, but her upper arms were adorned with short, puffed white sleeves secured by dark laces.

High heels adorned her feet, over white stockings that reached her mid-thigh. Gold accessories—a necklace, earrings, and a headpiece tied with dark ribbons—shimmered with magic. These, Erza had crafted, and Amaris had enchanted with celestial magic similar to Natsu's Seraphic Dragon Magic.

Behind her, three pairs of delicate fairy-like wings unfurled, glowing with ethereal energy. Her hair was styled in an elegant bun, with golden strands floating around her in a celestial aura.

Lucy Heartfilia - (Celestial Mage + Celestial Ascendance Stage + One Full Power) - 19.1 Million MPL

Amaris's voice resonated in her mind. "How do you like the dress? It was Natsu's idea."

Lucy smiled, her cheeks flushing slightly. "It's nice… a bit risqué. I might have to have a word with Erza."

Amaris's chuckle echoed warmly. "Oh, do it. Erza might want to take you for a 'spin' with her and Natsu."

Lucy's face turned bright red. "Amaris!"

The Goddess teased further. "Hey, Natsu has lots of stamina, and he's very, very good at… well, everything. You're beautiful, Lucy, and you're closest to Natsu and Erza. Who knows? I'd certainly take you if I were him~"

Lucy stammered, trying to suppress her blush. "Amaris!"

The teasing subsided as Lucy focused her magic, her radiant form pulsing with celestial energy. Caprico's smirk faltered as he felt the overwhelming power radiating from her.

Caprico's eyes widened in disbelief at the overwhelming magic radiating from Lucy. He instinctively took a step back, his usual composure cracking. "W-what is this?" he stammered, his voice betraying his uncertainty.

Lucy's smile deepened, her radiant form glowing even brighter. "If you were the actual Celestial Spirit you claim to be, you'd already know the answer."

The arrogance Caprico had shown earlier was replaced with frustration as he barked, "Answer me!"

Lucy chuckled softly, her tone dripping with irony as she echoed his earlier dismissive words. "I will not respond to you."

The smirk on her face sent a chill through Caprico, and he clenched his fists, trying to summon his usual confidence. "You dare mock me, girl? I am one of the Seven Kin! I am Caprico of the Twelve Golden Zodiac!"

Lucy's expression hardened, her wings flaring behind her as golden light pulsed around her. "And I am Lucy Heartfilia, Celestial Mage, and protector of the spirits you desecrate. You will regret underestimating me."

Caprico growled, his body glowing with dark energy as he prepared to strike. But for the first time, doubt crept into his mind.

With Juvia

Juvia dodged a barrage of glowing pink energy blades, her movements fluid and effortless. She kept her eyes on the young girl attacking her, her expression calm and maternal.

"You don't have to do this, dear," Juvia said gently, her voice soft but firm. The girl before her was young, only a few years older than Wendy—a fact that tugged at Juvia's heart.

SS-Class Dark Mage of Grimoire Heart

One of the Seven Kin

Meredy

Meredy stood defiantly, her vibrant pink hair shimmering under the sunlight and her matching pink eyes blazing with determination. A simple leotard hugged her small frame, with a crimson cloak draped over her shoulders. Over her ears, wing-like ornaments fluttered slightly as her magic flared.

"SILENCE!" Meredy screamed, her voice raw with emotion. "I WILL NOT BE TREATED LIKE A CHILD BY YOU!"

Juvia tilted her head slightly, her serene expression unwavering. "But… you are a child," she said softly, concern lacing her tone. "Let's stop this before someone gets hurt. I even have some candy, if you'd like? They were for little Wendy, but I'm sure she wouldn't mind sharing."

Meredy's face flushed crimson with anger. She mistook Juvia's calm and motherly demeanor for condescension, her hands trembling as her magic surged. "I am not a child! I'm a proud member of the Seven Kin of Purgatory! Show me the respect I deserve!"

Juvia sighed quietly, the water magic swirling around her reflecting her gentle patience. "Oh, Juvia didn't mean to offend you, dear," she replied with genuine sincerity. "But this isn't a game. You're too young to be fighting battles like this. Let's talk, hmm? Maybe over some sweets?"

Meredy's clenched fists glowed with power as she summoned more energy blades, her voice trembling with rage. "Stop treating me like a little girl! I don't need your pity or your candy! I'll show you the power of the Seven Kin!"

Juvia's expression softened, her heart aching for the girl. "Juvia doesn't want to hurt you," she said gently, water magic encircling her protectively. "But if you insist on fighting, Juvia will defend herself. Just know this isn't personal."

With a furious scream, Meredy unleashed a barrage of pink energy blades. The attacks came fast and relentless, but Juvia moved with grace and precision. Her water magic flowed like a river, absorbing or deflecting each strike with ease.

Juvia's calm demeanor only seemed to further enrage Meredy, the younger mage's frustration growing with every missed attack. Still, Juvia remained steady, her movements deliberate as she tried to find a way to end the fight without harming the girl.

With Freed and Bickslow

"Well, well, it seems we have intruders," Bickslow said, his playful tone accompanied by the faint echo of his floating dolls' eerie laughter.

"It does appear so," Freed replied coolly, his sharp eyes assessing the man before them.

The figure standing opposite them had dark silver hair that framed his face, matching his piercing silver eyes. He adjusted his silver-rimmed glasses and brushed a hand over his equally silver jacket, exuding an air of arrogance.

Bickslow tilted his head, a smirk playing on his lips. "Hm, is this guy a fan of Natsu or something?"

Freed raised an eyebrow, a subtle smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "If he is, then he's certainly not doing the look any justice."

The man scoffed, his expression twisting into one of indignation. "How dare you!"

Bickslow shrugged nonchalantly. "Hey, man, no judgment. Natsu's pretty cool." His dolls echoed his words with a high-pitched giggle, further aggravating the stranger.

SS-Class Dark Mage of Grimoire Heart

One of the Seven Kin

Rustyrose

Bickslow leaned forward slightly, his grin widening. "I mean, you kind of botched the Silver-Eye thing, but hey, points for effort, I guess."

Rustyrose growled lowly, his hands trembling as his magic began to stir. He understood the underlying insult all too well—they were comparing him to the Silver-Eyed Devil, and the insinuation infuriated him.

"Grr… You dare mock me?" Rustyrose snarled, his voice shaking with rage.

Freed adjusted the cuff of his sleeve, his calm demeanor unshaken. "It seems our intruder has a rather fragile ego."

Bickslow laughed, his dolls spinning around him with glee. "Careful, Freed, he might cry."

Rustyrose's magic flared, shimmering tendrils of creation energy weaving around him. "Mock me if you will, but I am Rustyrose of the Seven Kin of Purgatory! You will regret underestimating me!"

Freed unsheathed his sword with a flourish, its blade gleaming ominously. "We'll see about that."

Bickslow's grin turned feral as his dolls danced in anticipation. "Yeah, let's see how 'silver' stacks up to us."

With Natsu

Natsu walked with calm steps, the bodies of dark mages littering the ground around him. Yet, his attention wasn't on the carnage. His mind was elsewhere, occupied with deeper questions.

"How do you feel?" Amaris asked, her voice echoing in his thoughts.

"Fine," Natsu replied without missing a beat. "My magic's back at full capability."

Amaris's presence lingered, her concern pressing through. "I mean about your memories?"

Natsu's pace slowed, his face tightening. He stared into the distance, his thoughts swirling. "...What's there to feel?" His voice was almost hollow. "I'm furious. Other memories keep popping up. It seems like I've had access to my demon power ever since I was with Igneel... but he sealed them?"

Amaris's voice was thoughtful, a hint of sadness in her tone. "I had a feeling something like that happened when I first saw your soul. And the 400-year gap... Most likely, Igneel somehow used the Yamato's Space-Time Manipulation to send you here... but why seal your memories and your power?"

Natsu's expression darkened as the possibility started to weigh heavily on him. "You think Igneel used his own power to force me to seal myself?"

Amaris's response was calm but deliberate. "Could be. The seals were made from energy identical to yours."

Natsu stood still for a moment, his fists clenching tightly. "So... Igneel knew what I was capable of and still did this to me." He muttered bitterly, the frustration palpable. "He sealed me away for what? To keep me from becoming... what I'm meant to be?"

Amaris's voice cut through the air, calm yet filled with certainty. "No... I think he only meant to send you to the future. The Yamato was inside your soul. It manifested in the katana Erza gave you, and the scarf you've had... it's laced with traces of Igneel's magic."

Natsu frowned, confusion settling in. "So, what? He knew the future?"

"Not necessarily," Amaris continued. "Maybe when he forced you into the future, the Yamato's power sealed away your demon abilities and any knowledge of them as a fail-safe, allowing your power to grow stronger in secret. It would explain the immense leaps in your power over the years, even though it was sealed and you couldn't access it. This power kept growing in the background while you remained hidden from those who might want to use you."

Natsu's brow furrowed as the pieces began to come together. "If that's true... then I've got a massive power boost just waiting to be tapped into?"

Amaris's tone shifted, an edge of excitement in her voice. "Your power is already doubled. Even my power is regenerating faster. This... this could turn the tables on Zeref, maybe even Acnologia."

Natsu's eyes narrowed, his mind racing with possibilities. "How strong are you? In your prime?" His voice was steady but carried an undercurrent of curiosity, seeking knowledge to gauge his own growth.

Amaris's voice chimed in, both matter-of-fact and a touch amused. "Well, I was never much of a straight-on fighter. But if we're using the MPL system, I'd say somewhere around 900 billion at my peak. Maybe a bit higher if I fully leaned into Self Enchantment Magic. As I've told you, I wasn't the type to seek out fights—my power was never focused on battle, so I had no reason to push for a higher level."

Natsu's brow furrowed as he processed the number. "That's... high, right? How do you stack up next to other gods?"

Amaris chuckled softly. "Well, yes, for humans, it's extraordinarily high. The human limit is about 500 billion, and even that's exceedingly rare. In most generations, there are fewer than 100 humans who even reach the million range, let alone billions." She paused, her tone shifting slightly as she added, "As for how I stack against other gods—which, might I add, is not a polite question, dear! Don't belittle me!"

Natsu smirked. "I wasn't—just curious."

Amaris huffed playfully. "For your information, even the weakest, non-battle-related god starts at over 1 billion MPL."

Natsu nodded thoughtfully. "So, as a non-combat god, 900 billion is pretty incredible."

Amaris's voice softened, a teasing lilt creeping in. "Thank you, dear. You've earned some playtime with me~"

Natsu sighed, though the corners of his mouth twitched into a faint smile. "We're in the middle of a guild war. It can wait."

Amaris giggled, undeterred. "Oh, I'm sure we can find a cave somewhere, and you can show me how much you love your goddess~"

Natsu's smile widened, and he shook his head. "I swear, I never expected you to be this perverted."

"Well," Amaris replied smoothly, "I've never indulged in such pleasures in my long existence. I never tolerated anyone enough to even think of bedding them. You're quite lucky, dear. You have both a dragoness and a goddess, both of whom have been with only you. It must stroke your ego... much like I could stroke your—"

"Shush, Amaris," Natsu interjected, though he was laughing softly. "I promise—after the battle. Not in the middle of it."

Amaris sighed dramatically. "Hmmm, fine. But I'm getting extra attention afterward."

"Deal," Natsu replied with a grin. His expression shifted, becoming serious as he drew his guns. Queen materialized on his back, her blade gleaming with a faint ethereal glow.

He took a few deliberate steps forward before halting. A few moments later, a ring of black-grayish fire ignited around him, its oppressive heat distorting the air.

Natsu chuckled darkly. "God Slayer Magic?"

Amaris's voice rang in his mind, calm but unimpressed. "Yes, but of a lesser variety. Don't expect too much of a fight."

A figure leaped onto a nearby rock, his movements wild and erratic. Zancrow's mad grin stretched across his face as he looked down at Natsu. "So, you're him? Silver-Eye?"

Natsu tilted his head slightly, his own grin taking on a sinister edge. "Yes, I am him." His voice carried a chilling calm, blood staining his face and hands—none of it his own.

Zancrow barked out a laugh. "Ya don't look like much, Dragon Hunter."

Natsu's eyes glinted dangerously, his tone mocking. "And you look like an ugly dog that managed to escape being some retards fuck toy. But hey, I guess not everyone can be as devilishly handsome as me."

Zancrow's grin twisted into a snarl, his eyes narrowing in fury. "What'd you say?"

Natsu's lips curled into a smirk. "So you lack both looks and hearing? Gods, that must suck."

Zancrow's rage was palpable. "Oh, you bastard! Try this then—Fire God's Bellow!"

A torrent of blackish-gray fire rocketed toward Natsu. He barely flinched, his head tilting slightly as he watched the attack approach.

Zancrow – (God Slayer Magic + Full Power) - 301.4 Million MPL

With a calm movement, Natsu raised his hand, calling upon his newly acquired Crash Magic. The fire caved in on itself, vanishing into nothingness.

"What? Where'd my fire go?" Zancrow stammered, eyes wide in disbelief.

"Pathetic. Such fire wouldn't even harm me." Natsu said, his voice cold and detached as crimson flames erupted around his claw. "I'll show you what it means to wield the Flames of Destruction."

Zancrow sneered. "Ha! You think Dragon Flames can harm me?! If you want a chance, use your God Slayer Magic!"

Natsu's laughter was a dark echo in the air. "If you think you're strong enough to make me show you even a fraction of my magic, you're a fool. I won't need to cast a spell." His voice turned dangerous, and in the blink of an eye, he appeared in front of Zancrow, his punch landing with such force that Zancrow was sent crashing into a rock. A deep burn mark marred his face.

"W-what? This can't be! Fire does not hurt me!" Zancrow gasped, confusion and disbelief clouding his voice.

"My fire is simply superior."

"IMPOSSIBLE!" Zancrow screamed. "Gods are the strongest! These flames shouldn't even touch me! Gods created fire, not dragons! God flames are better! They are! THEY ARE!"

Natsu's smile turned to a dangerous, predatory grin. "You worthless fool. You don't even understand the hierarchy of Higher Beings. You don't know history. Well, it doesn't matter now. You're going to die, Zancrow. You just happen to find me at a very, very bad time."

A flicker of something ancient and wrathful ignited in Natsu's eyes. His power surged, overwhelming the air around him. His energy, once restrained, now poured out in an unfathomable torrent.

Natsu Dragneel - (Demon + Base + E.N.D Waking up + Adapting + Heavily Suppressed) - 7.1 Billion MPL

A deep silver aura exploded from Natsu's body, crushing the very atmosphere around him. Zancrow was pinned in place, unable to move under the weight of the pressure. But it wasn't just the physical force that paralyzed him—it was the suffocating feeling of dread, of utter despair.

A presence loomed over Zancrow. A presence that whispered of death.

The weight of his own insignificance was suffocating.

And with it, the cold reality that he was about to die.

With Hades a few minutes after,

Hades reappeared aboard his ship, his once pristine attire now torn in places. He brushed the dust from his shoulders, his expression calm but weary.

"Makarov has been dealt with… but what of the others?" he muttered to himself, his voice laced with irritation. Walking to his throne, he lowered himself into the seat with a heavy sigh. His hand reached for the lacrima beside the throne—a communication crystal tied to the status of his guild members.

Hades sat in his throne, a cold sweat dripping down his face as he stared at the Lacrima. The once mighty Grimoire Heart, the guild he had so carefully built, was crumbling before his eyes. His mind struggled to process what he had just read. His once loyal kin, his Seven Kin, the very core of Grimoire Heart, had fallen, each death a blow to his carefully constructed plans.

"How could this happen?" Hades muttered to himself, his voice low and laced with disbelief. He clenched his fist around the Lacrima, his nails digging into the glass as the weight of his failure crashed down upon him.

Azuma, Kain, Rustyrose, and Zoldeo—dead. Zancrow, his prideful, arrogant soldier—dead. Meredy and Ultear had abandoned the guild, their allegiance severed. The remaining forces had faltered, unable to stand against the overwhelming power of Fairy Tail and its allies. And the worst part? It had all happened in the span of a mere 38 minutes.

"Impossible... This can't be..." Hades' voice trembled, the anger in his heart rising. His mind raced as he tried to find a way out of the spiraling situation. His guild, his empire, had crumbled to dust before his very eyes.

He stood abruptly, his throne creaking under the pressure of his rising fury. His eyes flicked to the Lacrima again, and this time, he saw something that sent a chill through him. Blue Note was losing the battle against the combined might of Gildarts, Laxus, and Mirajane. If that was true, then the last thread of Grimoire Heart's power would soon be gone as well. He could feel the guild's presence slipping away, fading like sand through his fingers.

"There's nothing left," Hades whispered, a dark smile curling on his lips. But it wasn't a smile of satisfaction—it was one of rage, an embodiment of his unrelenting hatred. "We didn't even get to use our plans for Silver-Eye." He turned away from the chaos around him, muttering bitterly. "I focused too much on Silver-Eye... the others... they were just as dangerous."

The sound of approaching footsteps echoed through the throne room, followed by muffled gasps as the remaining low-ranked members of Grimoire Heart were swiftly gunned down.

"What a complete failure," Hades hissed under his breath, his frustration palpable.

The doors to the throne room were suddenly kicked open, and Natsu strode in, blood splattered across his coat and guns. A wicked demonic grin stretched across his face, his silver eyes gleaming with an eerie glow.

"You… must be Hades? Or Precht, as Gramps said," Natsu sneered, his voice dripping with disdain.

"I am," Hades replied curtly, his eyes narrowing with distaste.

"You know how bad you have it, don't you?" Natsu asked, his tone mocking as he took a step forward.

"… I am aware," Hades responded, his voice darkening.

"I will not grant you mercy, even if you were once the Master of Fairy Tail," Natsu said coldly, his eyes flashing with malice.

Hades' lips curled into a smirk, albeit a bitter one. "Good. At least I know Fairy Tail has finally awakened to reality after decades of foolishness."

"Before you die… tell me, why did you come here? For Zeref?" Natsu asked, his curiosity genuine but underlined with a deadly tone.

"We came… to unseal Zeref… I am aware that I cannot win against you, Dragneel," Hades confessed, the weight of his failure sinking in. "I know what kind of demon you are."

Natsu chuckled darkly. "Unseal Zeref? From what?"

Hades' expression darkened, a flicker of regret flashing in his eyes before it was replaced by cold determination. "From the prison he's been locked in… for all these years. A prison even your kind couldn't breach." He squared his shoulders, his voice growing more confident. "We were going to break the seal and unleash him upon the world. Only Zeref, with his boundless power, can help me achieve my goals. He was always the key."

Natsu's grin widened, his silver eyes glowing with an unholy intensity as he stepped further into the throne room. The air thickened, heavy with the weight of his demonic presence.

"Wanna know the best thing?" Natsu's voice was dripping with dark amusement. "He was never sealed. You wasted your life for nothing. You just ran around, basing everything on a tale Zeref created so people would leave him alone and let him be a lazy bastard. Don't believe me? Ask him yourself, he's right behind you."

Hades froze, his eyes widening in disbelief the dark energy around him flickered and swirled, reacting to his sudden unease. He spun around swiftly.

And there, emerging from the shadows, stood Zeref. A tall figure with black hair, silver eyes—identical to Natsu's. He stood with an amused smile playing on his lips, his presence chilling the air.

"Well, I could have done without the 'lazy bastard' comment," Zeref said, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "But I'll let it slide for now."

Hades' face twisted in confusion and disbelief as he stammered, "Z-Zeref! You're here—no, to you—he won't be a problem! We can—"

"I won't help you," Zeref interrupted, his voice calm, even indifferent. He turned his gaze back to Natsu, a knowing glint in his eyes. "Kill him and get out of this ship. I'll take it from here, little brother. I won't interfere with anything else."

Natsu chuckled darkly, "Thought you already left."

"I was… bored," Zeref replied, his expression unreadable. "And I do enjoy flying ships. So, I'll take this one to land."

Natsu nodded with a grin. "Yeah, sure. I'll kill you later, you scheming bastard."

Zeref's lips quirked into a dangerous smile. "Do try, E.N.D."

Hades's eyes widened in shock. "E.N.D… but that makes him—"

"Etherious Natsu Dragneel," Zeref interjected, his voice carrying an eerie calm. "The only TRUE Demon, and the most powerful I've ever created. Yet not… entirely."

Natsu's grin deepened, and he sneered. "You're right about 'yet not.' Don't take credit for something you don't understand. Pushing a button doesn't make one an engineer, does it?"

Zeref chuckled darkly, a hint of nostalgia in his gaze. "Well, I suppose I did miss this banter. A shame you chose to stand against me."

Natsu's expression hardened, his voice dripping with venom. "A shame you chose to be a coward and a traitor."

Natsu and Zeref locked eyes, the tension between them palpable. Zeref leaned back on the throne, his expression unreadable as he rested his chin on his hand. There was a sense of finality in the air, as though the entire room held its breath.

Natsu's gaze shifted to Hades. The old man, his pride shattered, met Natsu's eyes. It was clear—this was his time. His end had arrived.

Without a word, Natsu raised his right pistol, Ebony, the barrel gleaming in the dim light. A surge of dark energy swirled around him as he focused all of his power into the weapon. The moment stretched, tension building before the shot rang out. The bullet was a blur of silver, a flash of death itself, and it struck Hades square in the skull.

The Devil's Heart—the legendary defense—was useless. It crumbled like paper under the weight of Natsu's power. Hades didn't even have time to react, his body crumpling to the ground without a sound.

Natsu didn't spare him a second glance. His silver eyes flickered to Zeref one last time, before he turned his back, walking toward the exit. The silence in the room was deafening. He was done. He stepped off the ship and back onto the island, leaving behind the wreckage of what was once Grimoire Heart.

With Erza

Erza regrouped with Mirajane, Laxus, Gajeel, Levy, Cana, and Gildarts at the camp. The air was thick with exhaustion and relief, their battered forms proof of the intense battles they had endured. Gray and Juvia arrived moments later, having gone to see off Meredy and Ultear.

The truth about Ultear had unraveled, leaving shock and sympathy in its wake. She was Ur's daughter, a fact hidden behind layers of lies crafted by the Magic Council. They had deceived Ur, claiming Ultear had died, all to continue their cruel experiments on the young girl. Ultear had carried the burden of believing her mother had abandoned her, only to discover the betrayal that had shaped her life. Meredy, in turn, was like a foster daughter to Ultear, having been rescued and raised by her after a tragedy had destroyed her town. Together, they had chosen a new path, leaving behind Grimoire Heart and its twisted ideals.

Makarov sat nearby, massaging his temples. The revelation that Hades was Precht, Fairy Tail's previous Guild Master, weighed heavily on him. Precht's betrayal and transformation into the leader of Grimoire Heart had been a harsh blow, but it was his overwhelming strength that stung the most. When Hades had attacked Tenrou, Makarov had done everything in his power to stop him, only to be overpowered.

It was Natsu who had found Makarov and carried him back to camp before heading off to confront Hades alone. Despite his concern, Makarov couldn't help but feel a flicker of reassurance. He knew Natsu's power, and he trusted him to succeed where others might falter.

Nearby, a small scene played out that brought a moment of levity to the group. Wendy squirmed in Amaris's arms, the tiny Dragon Slayer whining in protest.

"I'm fine! Let me go!" Wendy protested, pouting as Amaris cradled her gently.

"Now, now, little one," Amaris said soothingly, brushing a strand of Wendy's hair aside as she inspected the small injury. "Don't be mean. If you behave, I promise to give you some candy."

Wendy's cheeks flushed, a mix of embarrassment and begrudging acceptance. She couldn't deny that she didn't entirely hate the attention, though she had already endured similar treatment from Erza, Mirajane, and Juvia. Each of them had fussed over her injuries earlier, smothering her with concern and affection.

Amaris leaned down and kissed Wendy's forehead before channeling her magic to heal the wound completely. A soft golden light enveloped the injury, and within seconds, it was gone.

"There, there," Amaris said with a warm smile.

Wendy pouted harder but couldn't hide the faint smile creeping onto her lips. She crossed her arms, but the warmth of Amaris's magic still lingered, soothing her small injury and her mood.

Erza approached with her usual composed demeanor, holding out a chicken sandwich she had summoned from her Re-Equip space. "Here, Wendy. Eat this. You'll feel better."

Wendy's eyes lit up the moment she saw it. She eagerly took the sandwich and bit into it, her sharp Dragon Slayer fangs effortlessly tearing into the tender meat. As she chewed, she unconsciously bobbed her head to the side, a habit that always surfaced when she ate something she particularly enjoyed. Erza's sandwiches were her favorite, and the combination of flavors was enough to melt away any lingering tension from the battle.

"How adorable," Mirajane cooed, her expression soft as she watched Wendy. She leaned over slightly, resting her hands on her knees. "Wendy, you're just too cute when you eat like that."

Wendy paused mid-bite, her cheeks puffed with food as she glanced up at Mirajane, her face flushing pink. "Mmph!" she mumbled defensively before swallowing quickly. "I'm not cute! I'm a Dragon Slayer!" she declared, puffing her chest out, though her diminutive stature and stuffed cheeks betrayed her.

Amaris chuckled, brushing her fingers through Wendy's hair. "You can be both, little one. A fierce Dragon Slayer and an adorable child."

Erza nodded in agreement, her lips quirking into a rare smile. "Even the strongest warriors need to eat and rest. You've earned this, Wendy. You fought bravely today."

Wendy's blush deepened, but she managed a small, proud smile as she continued eating. Despite her embarrassment, the warmth and care of her guildmates surrounded her like a comforting blanket, reminding her that she wasn't alone in her journey.

Lucy arrived shortly after, still in her Star Dress form, her celestial attire glowing faintly under the sunlight. "Hey, guys! Are you all okay?" she called out, her tone a mix of concern and relief.

Levy turned to her with a bright smile. "Yeah, we're all fine. Nice look, Lu! You're rocking that Star Dress!"

Lucy blushed lightly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "Ah, thank you. I wasn't sure if it was over the top."

Amaris grinned, her golden eyes glinting playfully as she winked at Lucy. "Over the top? Hardly. You're dazzling, darling."

Erza, standing nearby, crossed her arms and observed Lucy with a sharp, mischievous gleam in her eyes—a look that seemed uncharacteristically cheeky for the normally stoic knight. It was a look she might have picked up from spending too much time around Natsu.

"Lucy," Erza said, her tone suddenly laced with a teasing edge. "I must admit, you look... absolutely ravishing." She paused for dramatic effect, tilting her head as a sly smile tugged at her lips. "I might just have to take you for a 'spin' with Natsu. Perhaps even Amaris, though I warn you, she gets rather... competitive. That might have to wait for the later stages."

Lucy's face turned a deep shade of red, her hands waving frantically as she stammered, "E-Erza! W-What are you talking about?! That's not funny!"

Amaris chuckled, her melodic laughter filling the air. "Oh, don't be so quick to panic, dear Lucy. Erza does have a point, though. Competition can be fun... within reason." She winked again, clearly enjoying Lucy's flustered reaction.

Levy covered her mouth, trying—and failing—to hide her laughter. "Poor Lucy! You're outnumbered here!"

Mira giggled softly, shaking her head. "Don't worry, Lucy. Erza just likes to tease. Most of the time."

Erza shrugged nonchalantly, her teasing demeanor fading back into her usual composed self. "Relax, Lucy. I'm just having a bit of fun. You're safe—for now."

Lucy pouted, her hands on her hips as she sighed dramatically. "Why do I even put up with you guys?"

"Because you love us," Wendy chimed in between bites of her sandwich, her innocent smile breaking the tension and causing everyone to laugh.

The sound of footsteps interrupted the moment as Natsu appeared beside Erza and Amaris, his coat still slightly dusted from the earlier battle. "What's with all the laughter? Did I miss something?" he asked, his voice light but curious.

Erza turned to him with a warm smile, her eyes softening as they met his. Without a word, she leaned in, and the two shared a lingering kiss, their connection evident in the tenderness of the moment.

Wendy, still munching on her sandwich, blinked in confusion, tilting her head. "Uh… what's happening?"

Amaris chuckled softly, stepping behind Wendy and covering the little Dragon Slayer's eyes with her left hand. "There, there, little one. Nothing to see here," she teased.

With her free hand, Amaris gently reached for Natsu, tugging him toward her. "Don't forget about me, dear," she said with a playful smirk before pulling him into a kiss of her own.

The others exchanged amused glances. Lucy groaned, throwing her hands in the air. "Oh, great. Now it's public displays of affection o'clock."

Levy giggled, nudging Lucy with her elbow. "What's wrong, Lu? Jealous?"

"I-I'm not jealous!" Lucy stammered, her face turning a deep red.

Mira clapped her hands together, her eyes sparkling. "Oh, it's so sweet! I love seeing everyone so happy."

Erza finally pulled away, a faint blush dusting her cheeks as she looked at Amaris with a knowing smirk. "Fine. You got your turn, Amaris. But I'm still ahead."

Amaris laughed, her tone full of playful challenge. "Oh, Erza, darling. It's not a competition... unless I'm winning."

Wendy peeked from beneath Amaris's hand, her innocent confusion turning into a small pout. "You guys are weird."

The entire group burst into laughter, the tension from their recent battles melting away in the lighthearted moment.

"So?" Natsu asked, tilting his head, his silver eyes glinting with curiosity. "What was the laughter about?"

Levy grinned mischievously. "Oh, you know, Erza said she'd take Lucy for a spin with you and her," she teased, causing Lucy's face to turn a deep shade of crimson.

"Levy!" Lucy exclaimed, her voice a mix of shock and embarrassment.

Natsu turned his gaze to Lucy, his silver eyes taking in the sight of her Star Dress. The outfit shimmered with elegance and power, a design he remembered contributing to, though indirectly.

A playful smirk crossed his lips. "Well," he said, his tone light yet teasing, "you do look good… really good." He let his words hang in the air for a moment before adding, "I would, if you wish so."

Lucy froze, her cheeks burning as the weight of his words sank in. "N-Natsu!" she stammered, flustered beyond belief.

Erza, leaning casually against a tree, chuckled. "See, Lucy? You've caught his attention now."

Amaris grinned wickedly, stepping closer to Lucy and wrapping an arm around her shoulders. "Oh, don't be shy, dear. You're stunning in that dress. If you're ever curious, I'm sure Natsu and I would gladly accommodate you."

Lucy waved her hands frantically, trying to regain some composure. "Y-you're all insane! I'm not—this isn't—ugh!"

Wendy tilted her head, her innocent confusion breaking the tension. "What does she mean by 'a spin'? Are we going somewhere?"

Mira giggled, her hand covering her mouth. "Oh, Wendy, sweetie. Let's just say it's something for grown-ups to discuss."

Natsu, grinning cheekily, leaned back with his hands behind his head. "No pressure, Lucy. Just say the word."

Lucy groaned, burying her face in her hands. "Why do I even try with this group?"

The laughter started up again, the lighthearted teasing reminding everyone how far they'd come together—and how much they'd endured as a family.

Makarov and the others approached, their expressions warm, though curiosity lingered in their eyes. Makarov, with a smile, spoke up. "While I do enjoy seeing my kids so... lovey-dovey, I must ask... what happened with Hades? And with Zeref?"

Before he left, Natsu recounted his meeting with Zeref. He sighed, sitting down, his eyes distant as he began.

"Well… Hades is dead. He knew he lost, didn't even try to fight me. Zeref was on the ship, said he liked the ship and wanted to keep it. He's gone by now."

Natsu paused, letting the weight of what had happened settle before continuing. "As for how I know Zeref... well, I'll tell you all I know for now. Keep in mind, these memories were returned to me less than an hour ago. Even now, I keep getting flashes."

He took a deep breath before beginning his story. "I remember living in a small town, hundreds of years ago. I don't remember having parents, but I did have an older brother, Zeref. We were just kids back then, and the details are a bit hazy, but I remember an attack… and my neck being crushed? Then, only what I can assume to be… a sort of afterlife? I don't fully understand it, but it's where things got complicated."

Natsu looked around at the group, their eyes fixed on him, waiting for him to continue. "Turns out, Zeref and I were both born as Half-Demons. After I died, his Demon Power awakened. He spent years mastering his powers and delving deep into the Black Arts. Eventually, he created the Etherious Demons. He used that knowledge to forcibly awaken my own Demon Power and enhance it using the Etherious demons. After that, I ended up in Igneel's care."

He paused, his eyes clouding over as if replaying the memories. "From what I remember, Igneel met Zeref when he was still learning about his demon powers, and he trained him in some ways... But a few years later, when I was about 11 or 12, there was a massive battle. Zeref… betrayed us. He betrayed Igneel. He conspired with Acnologia to kill Igneel."

Natsu's eyes darkened as the memories came flooding back. "I saw the battle myself... I remember other dragons... There was one that looked more like a bird, its body covered in white feathers and had blue eyes—"

"That… sounds like Grandeeney?" Wendy asked softly.

Natsu nodded. "Yeah. Another one was made of metal and had green eyes—"

"Metalicana?" Gajeel asked, his voice low.

"And then there were two others, traditional dragons. One was white, the other was dark. I also remember four small figures... probably children. And then... I woke up here, 400 years later, on July 7th, Year 777. You all know the rest."

The group remained silent for a moment, absorbing the gravity of Natsu's words.

"So you are from the past?" Lisanna asked, her voice filled with curiosity.

"Apparently," Natsu responded, his tone resigned.

"Zeref… it was that man in the forest, right? The one you told us to run from?" Evergreen asked, recalling the terrifying encounter.

"Yeah, he broke the seal a few minutes after. Seems like, after I woke up in 777, the Yamato or its essence—since it didn't have a form yet—sealed my power," Natsu explained.

Amaris interjected, her voice calm but filled with knowledge. "We believe Igneel used his own power to activate Natsu's inner Space-Time Magic to send him into the future. But if the dragons he remembers are Grandeeney and Metalicana, it's possible that other dragons were sent with him. You two did say that your dragons disappeared on July 7, 777, correct?"

"Yeah," Gajeel said, a frown forming on his face. "Then… we're from the past too?"

"Most likely," Amaris continued. "It could be that the dragons stayed back in the past, or were sent here as well."

"Yes, but… why?" Wendy asked, her brow furrowed. "Why send Natsu into the future? Or us?"

"Zeref wanted me to join him," Natsu added, his voice quiet but filled with resolve. "He said that Igneel was trying to 'hide' me from him. Amaris and I have a theory about why my powers and all the knowledge of me being a demon were sealed. We think that, while I was outside conventional time, my demon side continued to grow as if I was living. That would explain the massive raw power boosts I've gotten. The Hybrid Effect was never this active, from what we know in history. As for why he sent you with me, 400 years ago, the Dragon Civil War was still going on. It could be that your dragons didn't want to see you partake in it."

There was a long pause, the weight of Natsu's words hanging in the air. Erza spoke next, her voice heavy with confusion. "There's still the problem of why Zeref betrayed Igneel."

"Would it be for power?" Lucy asked, her voice tinged with thought. "Igneel is a legend, one who fought in both Great Demon Wars. Could it be that Zeref wanted to take Igneel's power?"

Amaris nodded, a sad knowing look in her eyes. "Could be. In his prime, Igneel was one of the most powerful beings that have ever existed. He used to shape worlds and destroy solar systems by eating suns or crashing onto planets and forcing the climate to evolve into something that could sustain life. And that's ignoring his battle prowess that he displayed in the Demon Wars. But if Zeref and Acnologia were truly capable of slaying Igneel... then they are both 100 times more dangerous than we thought them to be."

"Was Igneel really that strong?" Cana asked, her voice filled with awe.

"When he took care of me, Igneel told me a few times that he wasn't as powerful as he used to be," Natsu replied, his voice full of respect and sorrow. "But even then, he possessed more power than I have ever sensed."

Amaris nodded, her gaze distant as she recalled the stories. "Igneel is said to have had a significant role in sealing both of the Infinite Halves of the Demon Realm. Rumors said that he lost a massive chunk of his power after the war, which is why he didn't partake so much in the smaller wars that followed."

The group sat in a contemplative silence, absorbing the gravity of their situation. Gray broke the stillness first, his voice pragmatic as always. "So, what now?"

Natsu let out a heavy sigh, his eyes distant. "I don't know. We keep training, keep growing. A battle with Zeref is inevitable, even with the Demon Realm looming over us."

Gray nodded, but his expression was still full of concern. "Zeref's greatest demon, E.N.D. He could be a problem. Legends say that demon was the only one who could rival and even surpass Zeref himself. What if he appears?"

Natsu waved his arm dismissively, a smirk creeping onto his face. "Thankfully, that's me. Etherious Natsu Dragneel, at your service."

The room fell silent for a moment before Laxus spoke, eyeing Natsu with a mix of curiosity and caution. "E.N.D.? Well, that's good for us, I guess. But any chance Zeref could… control you? Like he does with the other Etherius demons?"

Amaris interjected smoothly, her voice calm and confident. "Natsu is not like conventional Etherius demons. I've checked. There is no connection between him and Zeref. Besides, my Authority over Dreams makes Natsu immune to mind control. I'm certain of it."

"That's good," Laxus replied with a grin. "Because if Natsu goes ape-shit against us, we'd be fucked."

"Nice vote of encouragement, Laxus," Mira teased, rolling her eyes.

Laxus shrugged, unfazed. "Hey, it's the truth. The guy's too powerful for us… right now. But I'll get to that level."

"Well, you better do, Sparkles," Gajeel smirked, crossing his arms. "Or else we'll drop you from the 'Cool Awesome Slayers' Group."

Laxus shot Gajeel a glare, but the group couldn't help but laugh, the tension easing for just a moment. Despite the weight of the world on their shoulders, they had each other—and that was enough to face whatever came next.

Erza smiled softly and approached Natsu, her hands gently cupping his face. "The road ahead won't be easy. But we'll face it together. We always have."

Natsu returned her smile, his silver eyes glinting with determination. "I know, love. We'll forge our own Immortal Empire if we need to."

She giggled lightly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "I suppose we could."

Natsu stood up, cracking his knuckles. "All right, I'm guessing the S-Class Exams get—"

"ROOOOOOAR!"

An ear-shattering roar interrupted him, causing the entire island to tremble. The ground shook beneath their feet, and the sea around them surged violently.

"What was that?" Laxus asked, his brows furrowed as he scanned the horizon.

Natsu and Amaris both turned their gaze to the sky, their expressions filled with dread.

"Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck! Not now!" Natsu cursed under his breath.

Gildarts, looking pale, took a step back. "It's—it's—"

"Acnologia!" Amaris shouted, her voice filled with urgency.

Suddenly, a massive shadow darkened the skies as an immense black dragon descended from the clouds. Its scales were covered in deep black, adorned with blue tribal markings that glowed faintly. Its lower body, chest, and limbs were smooth and grey, with a disturbing contrast against its dark scales. The dragon's eyes were hollow white, and its head was blunt, with four large elongated plates extending backward, resembling sharp plates of armor. Its maw was lined with razor-sharp fangs, and a protrusion resembling an arrowhead jutted from its chin.

The dragon's wings were massive, made of scales that appeared to have the texture of feathers, with the same blue tribal marks sweeping across them. The tail tapered into a stinger-like shape, a final warning of the beast's deadly power.

Terror Incarnate

Devourer of Dragons

Successor of Bayle

The Black Dragon of the Apocalypse

The Dragon King

Acnologia

The dragon crashed onto the island with a thunderous impact, sending shockwaves that flattened trees in its wake. The ground quaked beneath their feet, and the air itself trembled as Acnologia's roar reverberated across the landscape, carrying with it the unmistakable weight of annihilation.

Natsu immediately summoned the Yamato, his grip tightening on the hilt as sweat dripped down his face. He knew what was coming—Zeref may not have had the heart to kill him just yet, but Acnologia? The Dragon Slayer turned Demon would need all of his strength, and more, to stand against this ancient beast.

Acnologia slowly moved his colossal head, his empty white eyes scanning the mages below. "So, the Black Mage flees… a pitiful thing, verily. A coward, no more." His voice was deep and guttural, resonating with the power of ages, as he tilted his head with interest. "An intriguing gathering, indeed... a half-dragon of Belserion's bloodline, a Devil Slayer, a quarter Demoness, and Dragon Slayers—two of whom will soon embrace their Dragon forms... And what have we here... a child, and the last... a Demon, with a Goddess bound to him." His eyes glimmered as he narrowed them on Natsu. "Ah, indeed... It was thee who slew Bayle, was it not? Son of Igneel, the Black Seraph, the Demon of Death, the Devil of the Night, Dragon of the End... E.N.D., or Silver-Eye, as the humans and demons call ye." Acnologia's voice dripped with condescension, his tone almost mocking as he looked over the group, sizing them up.

Natsu gritted his teeth, his heart pounding with fury. The Yamato hummed with power, its dark aura matching the intensity of Natsu's gaze. "Acnologia…" Natsu's voice was steady, but the weight of their shared history hung heavy in the air.

The massive dragon loomed above them, his form like a shadow cast over the very land. His voice, ancient and thick with the weight of time, echoed with a chilling finality. "Natsu Dragneel... it hath been centuries since I have sensed thy presence. Now, thou stand before me, the Demon whose very name foretells the end of days. I can feel thy power, boy—how it grows, unchecked, like a storm on the horizon. The Devil's blood runs deep within thee, but mark my words… even thy power will falter before mine."

Natsu's lips curled into a defiant sneer, his silver eyes never leaving Acnologia's monstrous form. "What do you want, bastard of a false King?"

Acnologia's eyes narrowed, his massive frame unfurling with an air of contempt. "False King, thou say? Aye, perhaps I am but a beast in the eyes of mortals and demons alike. But it is a title that suits me well. I, who hath slain countless dragons, bringing an end to their reign, who hath claimed dominion over man and monster alike. And now… thou, a mere boy, with thy devil's blood and powers, think thyself worthy to challenge me?"

Natsu's expression hardened, his voice steady despite the torrent of emotion within. "Leave this island. You do not belong here."

Acnologia's laugh rumbled through the air, dark and mocking. "Belong here? Aye, I belong wherever I choose. No place is beyond my reach, and no being can stand before me. Not even a demon such as thyself." The air around them seemed to freeze, the sky darkening as Acnologia spread his wings, casting an ominous shadow.

Amaris stepped forward, her presence a beacon of calm amidst the chaos. "What is it you want here, Dragon? Zeref is gone."

Acnologia's gaze shifted to Amaris, the ancient dragon recognizing her power immediately. "Amaris, Goddess of the Night, Magic, and Dreams... 'twas you whom Bayle used to enter this domain, was it not? And now you stand bound to a young Demon, granting him thy power. I would mock thee, but I find myself impressed by the boy's resourcefulness." He turned his attention back to Natsu, his tone laced with something akin to grudging respect.

"I do not share Zeref's desire for allies, boy. But since I am already here, I might as well remove one who could impede my purpose in the future." Acnologia's voice was cold, as if the thought of Natsu ever being a threat was laughable.

"So that's it?" Natsu's voice rang out with a steely resolve. "You want to kill me before I kill you?"

Acnologia's eyes glowed white with amusement, his voice a low, mocking rumble. "Bold of thee to assume you shall ever strike me down, boy." The dragon's massive form swayed slightly as if preparing to strike, the very air around them charged with dangerous energy.

The tension in the air was unbearable, crackling with the impending clash between two unstoppable forces. Natsu's heart raced, but there was no fear in his chest—only a searing, unyielding resolve. The time for words had passed. The time for battle was now.

Natsu glanced back at his comrades, all of them already in their strongest forms. The weight of their trust in him was palpable, and the unspoken understanding passed between them. They were with him, no matter the cost.

"No, don't even think of it!" Erza's voice cut through the heavy air, firm and unwavering. "We will not leave you."

"Erza—"

"We can't even if we wanted to," Lucy added, her tone serious, but her eyes bright with determination. "We've got no way of escape, not yet."

Natsu closed his eyes, taking in their words. He nodded once, no smirk, no witty comeback, just a solemn understanding. This was a battle they were all completely unprepared for, but there was no turning back now. The fight would come whether they were ready or not.

Amaris retreated back into his soul, her presence filling every corner of his being. Power surged through Natsu's body, his magic core igniting, pushing his strength to its absolute limit—and beyond. The darkness of the night descended as Amaris cast a spell, summoning a spectral version of herself that manifested around Natsu. Her arms shot towards the sky, and a beam of darkness streaked upwards. In an instant, the world darkened, as if the very night had been drawn over them.

Natsu Dragneel - (Demon + Dragon Monarch + Yamato + E.N.D. Waking Up + Adapting + False Night Blessing + Full Power) - 26.6 Billion MPL

He exhaled sharply. "Will it be enough?" he murmured to himself, but deep down, he already knew the answer.

"I'm sorry, my love," Amaris's voice echoed in his mind. "I—I'll think of something!"

Natsu didn't respond. Instead, he kicked off the ground and appeared before Acnologia in an instant. Time seemed to slow, but to Natsu's surprise, the massive dragon tracked his every movement with ease.

"Dark Slayer: Silver Devil – Abyssal Requiem!" Natsu unleashed a brutal upper slash, imbued with Death Magic, aimed at Acnologia's right claw. The dark energy laced with deadly force ripped through the air, yet the dragon did not flinch. The attack struck the scales, but they held firm.

A bolt of lightning shot from the sky, crashing into Acnologia's face with blinding speed, but still, the dragon did not flinch.

Swords of light descended, sharp winds howled around him, metal shards flew, ice exploded, and darkness poured from every direction. But nothing changed. The dragon remained standing, his eyes locked onto Natsu's with a cold, calculating intensity.

"Is this all you can muster?" Acnologia's voice boomed, disdain dripping from every word.

Natsu heard Amaris's voice in his mind once more, urgent and focused. "Natsu! He is a Black Dragon, a Demonic Dragon. Use your Seraphic Dragon Magic! The holy effect mixed with Dragon Slayer Magic has the best chance of working, if not—use Space-Time Magic!"

Natsu nodded silently. He jumped back, his body crackling with raw power.

"Dragon Monarch Secret Art: Morning Star – Lost Paradise!" Natsu shouted, his voice booming as his magic erupted. Hundreds of pillars of blinding light formed in the sky in the blink of an eye, locking onto Acnologia's massive form. With a deafening roar, they rained down, striking the dragon across his back and wings with unparalleled force.

The mages watched in awe and fear as the light show unfolded, but their moment of hope was short-lived. Gray, quick to react, cast an ice barrier, shielding the group from the onslaught.

The light and debris collided with Acnologia, sending shockwaves through the island. When the explosion of energy finally settled, Natsu gritted his teeth, sweat dripping down his face. His breath came in heavy gasps. Yet, there stood Acnologia, untouched, his eyes never leaving Natsu's.

The dragon's expression was one of amusement, almost bored as he regarded the devastation around them.

"So," Acnologia's voice rumbled with a hint of mockery, "Is this the extent of your power, boy?"

Natsu's fists clenched as the weight of the situation settled on him. It was clear—the battle with Acnologia was only just beginning, and they were nowhere near ready for what was to come.

Meanwhile, high above the chaos of the island, a young spirit stood silently atop a tree, observing the scene below. Her ethereal form shimmered as her eyes closed in concentration, reaching out with her magic. A sense of urgency filled her being as she focused her thoughts on a distant presence.

"Lady Amaris," the voice of the spirit called out, soft yet urgent.

Amaris's senses sharpened immediately, locking onto the presence. "Who speaks?"

The spirit's presence became more distinct, and she responded with humility, "I apologize for the intrusion, Lady Amaris. I am Mavis Vermilion, founder of Fairy Tail."

"A specter, then?" Amaris inquired, her tone calm yet curious.

Mavis's form flickered slightly, her voice tinged with sorrow. "I suppose so. But I have a plan for this battle. A way to give them a chance."

Amaris listened intently, her focus sharp as she waited for Mavis to continue.

"Push Acnologia off the island," Mavis instructed. "There is a spell I can cast—Fairy Sphere. If the name means anything to you?"

Amaris's eyes widened ever so slightly, her mind racing as she processed the information. As a Goddess of Magic, she was intimately familiar with the spell. The moment the name reached her ears, she understood its power and its potential.

"Yes," Amaris replied, a contemplative note in her voice. "I know the spell. It could work, but…" She paused, considering the situation. "Will you cast it, or shall I?"

Mavis's form remained composed, though there was a quiet determination in her voice. "I will cast it. But I'll need your support to ensure it's powerful enough to push Acnologia off the island. The spell will protect the island, but we need to move quickly before the situation worsens."

Amaris gave a soft nod of agreement. "Then let us act swiftly, before this battle consumes all."

Together, they prepared for the powerful magic that would be their only chance to stop Acnologia's rampage.

"Natsu," Amaris called out, her voice reaching him amidst the chaos, "We need to get Acnologia off the island, off the ground. We have a plan!"

Natsu, who had been soaring above the ruined forest, landed with a heavy thud, his boots cracking the earth beneath him. He glanced up, eyes narrowing. "Fine," he responded, his voice steady. He braced himself and slammed both his palms onto the ground.

"Dragon Monarch Secret Art: MorningStar – Tower of Babylon!"

The island quaked beneath him as massive cracks appeared in the ground surrounding Acnologia. Brilliant light erupted from these cracks, spiraling upwards in an intense beam. The pillar of light surged beneath the dragon, lifting him into the air. But Acnologia, unfazed, spread his wings and fought against the force, pushing through the light as though it were nothing more than an obstacle in his path.

Natsu gritted his teeth. He wasn't done yet. Summoning the Yamato once more, the blade crackled with energy, its dark aura amplifying his power. The sheer force of it made his body tremble, but he welcomed the sensation, pushing through the strain.

In a flash, Natsu unsheathed the Yamato, appearing before Acnologia in an instant, then behind him just as quickly. With one swift movement, thousands of ethereal slashes erupted from the blade, not just physical cuts, but rips through the very fabric of reality itself. The dimension twisted with each strike, space bending and time itself seemed to slow as the slashes tore through the air.

"Dark Slayer: Space-Time Shattered – Final Judgement Cut End!"

The space around Acnologia fragmented, the slashes bypassing his scales and magical defenses as if they were nothing more than illusions. The instant Natsu teleported back to the island, the Yamato returned to its sheath, and the slashes detonated. A series of immense explosions erupted in the air, releasing waves of raw energy that shook the very foundations of the island. Shockwaves tore through the surrounding sea, splitting the water in chaotic patterns, while the sky crackled with remnants of Space-Time Magic. Lightning arcs streaked through the air, and raindrops seemed to fall upwards, as if time itself had reversed.

For a moment, the battle seemed to still.

Acnologia's massive form hovered high above, his eyes narrowing as the blood dripped from his mouth, evaporating into the air. His immense wings beat the air with power, sending gusts that shook the earth.

"Inconceivable..." he muttered, his voice heavy with disbelief, the ancient weight of his words pressing down like a mountain. "Thee possess power of Space and Time... to wound me... with so little power?"

Natsu took a deep breath, the weight of the recent battle heavy on his chest. He was exhausted—his magic strained, and his body aching from the immense power he had just unleashed. But there was no time for rest. His mind reached out to Amaris, a quiet whisper of hope.

"Amaris," he called out through their bond, his voice faint, "What now?"

Before Amaris could respond, Acnologia's voice boomed, filled with dark fury. "I shall erase thee myself!"

The air around the island crackled as a golden hue enveloped it. The ground trembled beneath Natsu's feet as the dragon's form loomed in the sky. A massive arm of dark purple energy materialized before Acnologia's maw, surrounded by black tendrils of magic that crackled ominously.

Acnologia leaned forward, his eyes burning with hatred. "Prepare to witness thy end!"

A blast of immense power surged from his maw, the beam growing larger than the island itself. It descended upon them with unrelenting force.

But before it could strike, the golden energy that surrounded the island surged, coalescing into a protective barrier. The voice of an ancient power resonated from within the island's depths, echoing like a call to the ages.

"Arcane Art – Fairy Sphere!"

A brilliant dome of golden light exploded outward, forming a protective shell around the island just as the beam of destructive power reached it. The two forces collided, sending shockwaves through the air that cracked the sky and split the sea beneath. The very fabric of reality seemed to shudder as Acnologia's attack was deflected, unable to break the barrier.

In that moment, the island itself began to shrink, its form distorting as the air warped around it. The island disappeared in a flash of light, leaving nothing but the crackling remnants of magic in the air.

Acnologia's eyes narrowed as he watched the space where the island had once been, frustration and rage evident in his every movement. He roared, his fury echoing across the now empty waters, but the island—along with the mages it held—was gone.

With Zeref

Zeref stood at the edge of a dark, ethereal expanse, watching the scene unfold before him. His Silver eyes narrowed as he observed the clash between Natsu and Acnologia, the demon's power shining through despite the overwhelming might of the Black Dragon. He could sense the strength of the Yamato in Natsu's hands, the sword once thought to be lost to time, and yet, even with that weapon, Natsu could not defeat Acnologia. The black dragon seemed invincible.

A faint smile tugged at the corners of Zeref's lips, though it was more of a satisfied sneer than anything else. "It would seem... that our duel was permanently canceled, little brother," Zeref murmured, his voice low and calculating. "Such a shame. Even with the Yamato in your hands... you still cannot slay the Black Dragon." He allowed the words to hang in the air for a moment before continuing, his tone cold. "Without that weapon, it will be much harder for me to get into the Demon Realm."

Zeref's gaze lingered on the scene, his mind calculating his next steps. He had anticipated that the battle between Natsu and Acnologia would reach a deadly conclusion, and as far as he could see, it had. The island had been torn apart—nothing remained but the echoes of destruction. A wicked satisfaction spread across his face as he nodded to himself.

"Well then," Zeref muttered, his voice growing colder, "I think it's time... to claim Fairy Heart for myself."

He turned away from the scene, his dark cloak fluttering in the wind, and with deliberate steps, he began to make his way towards his next goal. The battle was over, and in his eyes, the pieces were already falling into place for his ultimate victory.