Chapter-15: Velmorra & Vengeance
Two Days later
Two days later, the mages arrived at the main base: a small abandoned town nestled deep within a dense, magical forest. The air was thick with tension, and the feeling of loss still lingered. In the past few days, the mages had come to terms with the fact that they had lost seven years of their lives. Seven years lost to time, sealed away in a prison of magic. The grief was heavy, but it was tempered by something far more powerful—rage. They had lost their fathers, their guiding lights, in the fight against the demons. The deaths of Gildarts and Makarov still stung, but the mages knew one thing for certain: their fight was far from over.
They were hurt, yes, but not crushed. In fact, the pain only fueled their resolve. They were furious, determined to make Zeref pay for everything. The kid gloves were off. Zeref had wanted war, and war he would get. But this wasn't just the Fairy Tail guild anymore. No, the Fairy Tail that once was was gone, reduced to ashes. What had risen in its place was something different. Stronger. Vengeful. Whatever they were now, that was still a mystery—but the time for defining it would come later. Right now, they had a war to fight.
At the main base, the mages met the rest of the rebels. The Empire had forced all of them to grow stronger, yes, but not enough. They had been honed by necessity, surviving in the harshest of conditions. But even that hadn't prepared them for the monstrous power of the Empire. Still, they were fighters, and together, they would stand.
The rebels gathered in the clearing, their faces grim but determined. Hibiki Lates, Ren Akatsuki, Eve Tearm, Jenny Realight, Sherria Blendy, Millianna, Kagura Mikazuchi, Flare Corona, Ultear, Hisui, and Meredy—all had come together, ready to strike back at the heart of the Empire. Meredy, who had grown into a strong and capable young woman, stood at the front. She looked different now—stronger, sharper—but still the same warm-hearted person who had once fought alongside them.
"How's everyone holding up?" Hibiki asked, his voice low, filled with a sense of responsibility. His gaze shifted to the Fairy Tail mages, noting the strain in their faces. He understood what they'd lost and what they were now facing.
"We're fine for now," Mira answered, her voice steady but laced with concern. "But how long can we stay here before they find us again?"
Before anyone could respond, the door creaked open, and Natsu walked in, his steps slow and deliberate. Erza was by his side instantly, her hand hovering protectively near his shoulder. Natsu had collapsed the moment they had arrived here a day ago, but now, he stood tall, determination burning in his eyes.
"It's done," Natsu said, his voice low, but filled with quiet confidence.
"What's done?" Hibiki asked, sensing the gravity in Natsu's tone.
"My power and Amaris's… we're back at full strength," Natsu said, a faint but triumphant smirk tugging at his lips.
Almost on cue, Amaris materialized next to him. Her long, starry hair seemed to shimmer like a night sky, and her eyes—galaxies swirling with unspoken power—held an edge of anger. The anger of a god.
"Gather around," she commanded, her voice cool and unyielding. "I will transport us into Velmorra."
"Velmorra?" Hisui's brows furrowed in confusion. "Wait, I think we're missing some information here."
Lucy, always the one to provide clarity, pointed toward Amaris with a deadpan expression. "Amaris, Goddess of the Night, Magic, and Dreams. She's been residing in Natsu's soul since Bayle's invasion," she said dryly. "And yes, she's on our side."
Amaris rose her arm, a faint purple light beginning to swirl around her fingertips. With a snap of her fingers, the light expanded into a swirling vortex, enveloping them all in its radiant glow.
The last thing anyone saw before they disappeared was the dark, ethereal energy that Amaris wielded, and the lingering sense of a future yet to be written. As the light faded, the mages and rebels were gone, transported to a new realm—Velmorra, a place where the threads of fate would soon be woven together in a final, deadly battle.
As the light from Amaris's magic dissipated, the mages and rebels found themselves standing on an unfamiliar, otherworldly landscape. The ground beneath them was black, an obsidian-like substance that shimmered with an eerie, reflective surface. It was as though the very land itself was forged from the remnants of a dying star, dark and impenetrable.
Above them, the sky stretched endlessly, but the most striking feature of this new realm was the view—it wasn't like anything they had ever seen before. The planet they called Earthland was visible in the sky, distant and pale, as if they were looking from the moon. The sight was both awe-inspiring and unsettling; a reminder that they were no longer on the familiar ground they had known.
"This place…" Hisui murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's like nothing I've ever seen. We're in a different dimension, aren't we?"
Amaris's words echoed in the stillness of Velmorra, the weight of her statement settling over the group like a heavy cloak. As she spoke, the mages felt the immense power radiating from her, a presence that was both comforting and intimidating.
"Velmorra is my personal domain, created by the first Night God, and passed from one to the next," she continued, her voice steady, yet filled with an ancient reverence. "It is a place outside of time and space, a refuge for those who wield the power of the night. Zeref has no means of entering this realm, no way of bypassing the barriers that have stood for millennia."
Her eyes glinted with the cold fire of a goddess, and as she spoke, the air around them seemed to hum with the invisible presence of countless protections. "This place is secured by millions of rune barriers, each woven into the fabric of this world. These are complemented by barrier magics, space-time barriers, and raw God Authority, all working in tandem to prevent anyone from crossing into this realm without my permission."
Natsu took a step forward, his eyes scanning the open universe above them. Erza, standing beside him, did the same, her expression awestruck. "It's beautiful," she whispered, her voice filled with wonder.
Amaris smiled softly, a warmth in her gaze. "Thank you, dear."
A few moments later, the group was seated at a massive table inside the palace. Natsu sat at the head, with Erza and Amaris flanking him. Their chairs were significantly larger than the others, fitting for their positions at the table.
"Alright, alright, we need to talk now," Hisui spoke up, breaking the silence. "You're an actual goddess? A divine immortal being who governs the Night and Magic?"
"Yes," Amaris replied calmly, her voice steady.
Hisui blinked in disbelief. "H-how are you here?"
"Long ago, Bayle—the demon who invaded Fiore seven years ago—used a ritual of magic even older than I, to bind me into his service," Amaris explained. "He used my raw power to fuel his city and the Hell Gate. When Natsu was captured and then escaped, I asked him to absorb me. He did, and since then, we have been bonded. In a way, Natsu is my 'God Chosen,' a title given to those who are granted divine power by a god. But that is not as important as what we do now."
Erza nodded thoughtfully, processing the information. "We need to learn what this 'Fairy Heart' is."
"We could go to where it was," Natsu suggested, his mind already working. "We have a spell that allows us to look into the past of a specific location. If we go to Magnolia, we can use it to see the events of the past."
"And with my and Natsu's senses," Amaris added, her tone filled with confidence, "we can discern whatever it is, whatever it means."
Erza nodded, her resolve hardening. "Then it's settled. Natsu, Amaris, and I will go to Magnolia."
Amaris paused, scanning the room with an air of authority that left no doubt of her leadership. Her voice, steady and commanding, carried across the vast hall. "As for the rest of you…" she began, her galaxy-like eyes meeting each mage seated before her. "Those who were sealed on Tenrou—your raw power has indeed doubled, as Natsu mentioned. In my realm, I can help you progress further. I will create a 'training room' to enhance your abilities. If necessary, I will bestow additional magic to ensure you're prepared for the battles ahead."
The mages exchanged uncertain but hopeful glances. The weight of Amaris's words, paired with the potential she offered, settled heavily in the air like a storm about to break.
"I've taken the liberty of reading your potential and skills to understand your strengths," Amaris continued. "We are not just a ragtag group of rebels anymore. We are about to wage war against an empire that wields ancient, primordial powers—powers akin to a pantheon of gods. To succeed, we need structure and precision. From this moment forward, I will divide our efforts into three roles: Strategy, Information Gathering, and the Main Fighting Force."
Her voice carried a solemn intensity as she outlined the plan.
"Strategy," she began. "This group will be responsible for planning and coordinating our moves. Hibiki, Ultear, Freed, Hisui, and Levy—you'll be key players here. Erza will take the lead in this branch. Your minds and tactical skills will shape our path forward."
"Information Gathering," Amaris continued, her gaze shifting. "Flare, Evergreen, Millianna, Jenny, Bickslow, and Cana, you will form the backbone of our intelligence efforts. Lisanna will lead this branch. I will grant you all access to stealth magic, teleportation magic, and any other tools necessary to uncover the enemy's plans and weaknesses."
"Healers," she said, her tone softening as she looked at Wendy and Sherry. "Both of you wield Sky Magic with healing properties, but you also possess untapped fighting potential. While your primary role will be to heal, I expect you to train to become formidable warriors as well."
Finally, her voice rose slightly as she addressed the final group. "The Main Fighting Force. Everyone else, this includes you. Your sole focus is to train relentlessly and grow as powerful as possible. What I've outlined is just a blueprint—a starting point. You all have the potential to contribute in multiple ways."
She turned to Natsu briefly, then back to the others. "Currently, our most powerful fighters are: Natsu, Gray, Erza, Laxus, Gajeel, Mira, Kagura, Lucy, and Juvia. You will be the core of our offense."
Lucy raised her hand, her brow furrowed in confusion. "Shouldn't I be in the Info or Strategy group?" she asked.
Amaris smiled, shaking her head. "No. We will be completing the Celestial Ascendance. Once that's achieved, you'll gain the ability to summon all your spirits simultaneously."
"That would essentially make you an entire squad on your own," Natsu added.
Amaris nodded in agreement. "Exactly. With the Celestial Ascendance, you'll transcend conventional roles and become a key asset to our efforts."
The room was thick with silence as Natsu stood, his presence commanding the attention of everyone present. His voice was steady but carried an unmistakable intensity.
"From this point forward," he began, "we rise, stronger than ever. We are not just fighting to survive. We are fighting to win."
He scanned the room, meeting the eyes of each mage. "Our group is small, but numbers don't win battles—quality does. And we've got quality in spades. But know this: our fight against Zeref isn't just about saving Fiore anymore. It's bigger than that—far bigger."
Natsu's fists clenched, the weight of his words reflected in his fiery gaze. "The possibility that Earthland itself might not survive this fight is real. It could come to that. Zeref's goals extend beyond this realm, into others—even into the Demon Realm. This is no longer a fight to protect what we've lost or to rebuild Fiore as it once was. It's about stopping a madman from plunging existence itself into chaos the likes of which hasn't been seen in eons."
The mages around the table looked shaken, but Natsu pressed on, his voice unwavering. "Understand this: the world we knew is gone. Ishgar, Fiore—everything we once had is a memory now. There's no going back to what failed in the first place. Instead, we learn from those failures, and we end this war. Once and for all."
He took a deep breath, his tone shifting, heavier with meaning. "This isn't a fight about heroes or villains. It's a conflict on a scale beyond those ideals, beyond concepts like good and evil. It's a battle of higher beings, and it demands that we rise above our own humanity. There will be choices—hard choices—that none of us ever thought we'd have to make."
Natsu's fiery spirit burned brighter as he took a step forward. "But don't mistake me. I'm not telling you to stoop to Zeref's level. I'm telling you to recognize the magnitude of what we're up against. This isn't a human war—it's something far greater. And if we want to win, we can't treat it like one. We need to be more than what we were."
The room was silent, the weight of his words sinking in. For a moment, it felt as if the entire world held its breath.
"Now," Natsu said, his voice firm and resolute, "we fight. Not just for survival, but for existence itself. We fight because it's the only choice we have. And we win—because failure is not an option."
A spark of determination ignited in the eyes of everyone in the room. This was no longer just a rebellion; it was a mission to rewrite the fate of the very realms they called home.
With Erza, Amarisi and Natsu a few days later
The trio stood in front of the house, built long ago by Amaris's magic. Without her presence, the house had lost its enchantment, yet it remained untouched, as if time itself had respected its significance.
Natsu scoffed, his heightened senses catching Zeref's lingering scent. It was faint but unmistakable. Zeref had preserved the house—not out of kindness, but perhaps as a mockery, or even due to lingering sentiment for his brother.
"There's nothing here," Natsu muttered, his voice low with restrained frustration.
"Magnolia is empty," Erza added, her gaze fixed on the distant horizon. The once-bustling town was now eerily silent, abandoned and lifeless. "No one lives there anymore."
Natsu clenched his fists, anger simmering beneath the surface. "Let's go to the guild hall."
They walked through the desolate streets until they reached what remained of the guild hall—nothing but a pile of rubble.
Erza tightened her fist, her eyes closing as if to block out the painful sight. Natsu stared at the ground, his jaw tense. This place had been their sanctuary—their home. It was where they had grown stronger, forged unbreakable bonds, and found love. Now, it was gone.
"Let's go, please," Erza whispered, her voice trembling. "I don't want to look at this anymore."
Natsu nodded silently. Amaris raised her hand, and with a snap of her fingers, the trio was transported underground. Before them stood an open gate, its once-impenetrable fortifications now useless.
They stepped inside. Shelves of ancient books lined the walls, and at the chamber's center stood an empty pedestal where something vital had once rested.
"The Fairy Heart," Amaris murmured, her gaze sweeping the room. "It's gone."
Amaris turned to Natsu. "Let's use the spell."
Natsu nodded, and the two clasped hands. Natsu's Space-Time Magic merged with Amaris's ancient chants, their combined energies creating a glowing aura that spread throughout the chamber.
In an instant, the past unfolded before them.
The gate blew open, and Zeref strode in, accompanied by an older man whose aura radiated immense power. His scent was faintly similar to Zeref's, suggesting a deep connection.
As they watched, their eyes were drawn to the center of the chamber—to it.
The Fairy Heart.
A massive crystal encased the still form of Mavis Vermilion, and within her, something far greater lay hidden.
"Do you feel anything?" Erza asked, breaking the heavy silence.
Natsu's fists trembled, his eyes wide with fury. Amaris, too, had sensed it, and Natsu's reaction confirmed her suspicions.
The Fairy Heart wasn't just Mavis. Encased within her was a power so ancient and profound that it sent chills through their very souls.
"I can," Natsu finally replied, his voice low and dangerous. His silver eyes glowed, and his suppressed aura radiated seething anger.
He exhaled sharply, calming himself. "It's… Igneel's Lacrima."
Erza's eyes widened in shock. "Igneel's Lacrima? But how—?"
Amaris spoke, her tone heavy with realization. "It could be that Igneel managed to ensure neither Zeref nor Acnologia could claim it. A Dragon's Lacrima is their heart and soul, the core of their being. And Igneel's Lacrima…" She paused, her expression grim. "It contains unimaginable power."
Natsu stared at the projection of the past, his anger simmering into a quiet determination. This revelation changed everything.
Natsu's voice was like a blade, sharp and filled with a deadly resolve. The room seemed to grow colder as his words reverberated through the air. His silver eyes burned with a fire that could consume worlds, and his fists clenched so tightly his knuckles whitened.
"I'm gonna kill him," Natsu continued, his tone unwavering. "I'm gonna tear him apart, limb from limb. I'll rip his soul to pieces, and anyone who stands by him will share the same fate. Zeref wants war? He wants chaos and power? Well, I'll remind him why Igneel chose me—why the Yamato is mine and not his! I will show him his place. He wants death? I'll bring him to the end."
The intensity of his words hung in the air, a promise of destruction. Erza, standing beside him, knew the depth of his pain, the weight of his determination. This was no longer about just saving the world—it was personal. Zeref had taken so much from them, and now Natsu was ready to make him pay.
Amaris's expression softened, but there was an edge of sharp focus in her gaze as she studied Natsu's face. "You've grown strong, Natsu. But this war will not be won by anger alone. We will need more than just vengeance to stop Zeref."
"I know," Natsu replied, his voice steady, yet filled with quiet resolve. "That's why I'm going to play the long game for now. I have a plan to take Alvarez, Zeref, and the Spriggan Twelve out of the equation—at least temporarily—while we deal with the Asgard Division."
Amaris raised an eyebrow, her interest piqued. "A plan, you say?" Her voice held a trace of curiosity, yet there was an undeniable caution there. She knew Natsu's impulsive nature well, and if he had a strategy, it was worth hearing.
Natsu took a deep breath, his eyes scanning the room, gathering his thoughts. "I'm going to cause as much chaos as possible within Alvarez itself—"
"Natsu, that's not a plan," Erza interrupted, her tone stern but understanding.
"I'm not done, love," Natsu said, holding up a hand to signal for patience. He then turned back to Amaris, his expression intense. "Tell me, Amaris, what is something that both gods and devils are known to do when angered? I'm referring to a particular ability they both possess."
Amaris's gaze sharpened as she instantly understood where Natsu was going. The corners of her mouth curled into a knowing, slightly amused smile. "You mean curses," she said, her voice low and deliberate. "The power to curse a being—binding their fate with death, suffering, or worse. Both gods and demons have wielded curses as a weapon throughout history."
Natsu nodded, his face hardening with conviction. "Exactly. Etherious demons, are known for their use of curses—whether it's curse power or outright curses. Now, if even low-level Etherious demons could curse entire cities or bloodlines, imagine what the most powerful Etherious demon—someone who is also a True Demon, a hybrid with ancient dragon blood and the power of a goddess by their side—could do."
Amaris's eyes narrowed, the weight of Natsu's words sinking in. "A curse of that magnitude... could level an empire. It could cripple Zeref's forces in ways they've never anticipated."
Natsu clenched his fists, his voice filled with cold resolve, a mad grin spreading across his face. "Exactly," he said, his words dripping with intensity. "I'm going to curse ALL of Alvarez. Now, I'm sure with all those monsters and Zeref's power, they'll eventually find a way to break the curse. But not in a day. Not in two days. Not in a week. Not even in a month—or anything close to that."
Erza's eyes glinted with understanding, her fists tightening as she caught on to Natsu's reasoning. "It will keep them distracted," she said, voice calm but fierce. "It will remove the immediate threat of Alvarez and Zeref adding the Asgard Division into the equation. If that could work—"
Amaris nodded, her expression thoughtful. "You're going to make sure they're fighting to survive first before they can take on anyone else. They'll be forced to divert their attention entirely, wasting precious time and resources."
Natsu's grin widened. "Exactly. The curse will wreak havoc on their infrastructure, their leadership, and their morale. By the time they start trying to undo it, we'll have the chance to hit them where it really counts."
Amaris stepped forward, her aura surging with power. "Then we move fast. We'll need to capitalize on this chaos, gather our forces, and prepare for the final confrontation. But you'll need to be careful, Natsu. A curse of that scale could have consequences beyond what you're anticipating."
"I know," said Natsu, "Now, let's return to Velmorra, I have a request to make for Lisanna and her team."
A few hours later
Natsu walked through the sprawling grounds of Velmorra, the weight of the upcoming battle pressing on him, but the fire of determination never wavering in his eyes. His mind was set—Zeref and his empire would pay, and Alvarez would crumble under the weight of his curse. But for now, he needed to ensure the first part of his plan unfolded smoothly.
He made his way to the Information Gathering HQ, a large, secluded building situated at the edge of the realm. Inside, Lisanna and her team had been working tirelessly to gather intelligence on Alvarez, Zeref, and the Spriggan Twelve.
As Natsu entered, the soft echoes of his boots against the stone floor filled the otherwise quiet room. The atmosphere inside was focused. Lisanna, Flare, and Millianna were deep in conversation, the quiet hum of their teamwork a stark contrast to the chaos of the outside world.
Lisanna looked up as he entered, her expression shifting from concentration to a welcoming smile. "Ah, Natsu," she greeted him, stepping forward to meet him. "What brings you here?"
Natsu didn't waste any time. "I need a favor," he said, his tone serious. "I want to know about Alvarez—its geography, key cities, military bases. And... I need you to find the Fairy Hunter."
The room went quiet at the mention of the name, the air thickening with tension. Lisanna's smile faltered as she recognized the weight of Natsu's words. She glanced at Flare and Millianna, who exchanged silent looks before returning their attention to Natsu.
"The Fairy Hunter," Lisanna repeated, her voice quiet but firm. "I figured someone would eventually want to find him." She turned to a nearby table, where several documents were neatly stacked. "I've been looking into him since Amaris built this place. I knew this day would come."
Lisanna retrieved a file from the stack and placed it on the table. She flipped it open, pulling out a photograph and laying it before Natsu.
The image showed a tall man, appearing to be in his late thirties. His jet-black hair was slicked back with precision, and his crimson red eyes glowed with a sinister light. His skin was unnaturally pale, with a bluish tint, and his expression was cold, calculating. He wore a long, simple trench coat that hung loosely around his frame, yet there was an undeniable air of danger emanating from him.
"Aren Zaygan," Lisanna explained, her tone shifting into one of quiet respect. "He's a member of the Spriggan Twelve, ranked seventh in their order. He earned his position after God Serene's fall, a traitor to Fiore. Aren specializes in Sword Magic, Darkness Magic, and minor Death Magic. From what I've gathered, he's an extremely dangerous opponent."
Natsu stared at the photo for a moment, his jaw tightening. His fingers clenched into fists, the heat of his anger rising. Without a word, he folded the photo and tucked it into his pocket.
"He's a dead man," Natsu said simply, the words laced with an unspoken promise.
Lisanna nodded, her expression hardening. She handed him another file. "I also compiled some intelligence on Alvarez—its layout, military installations, and key figures."
Natsu took the file without hesitation, scanning its contents quickly. The lines on his face deepened as he absorbed the information, his mind already working out the steps to take.
As he turned to leave, Lisanna called out to him, her voice low and filled with a quiet, burning anger.
"Natsu?"
He paused, turning back to face her. "Yeah?"
"Make it painful," she said, her eyes hard with resolve. "Make it as painful as a Demon can make someone suffer."
Natsu's gaze softened, the fire in his eyes intensifying. "I will."
With Gray
Natsu walked silently toward the cliff, where Gray stood motionless, gazing up at the massive planet that loomed ominously in the sky. The cold wind tugged at Gray's coat, but he didn't flinch, his eyes filled with a quiet intensity.
"Gray," Natsu called out, his voice cutting through the stillness.
Gray turned slightly, glancing over his shoulder. "Hey," he greeted with a nod.
Natsu stepped closer, standing beside him at the cliff's edge. For a moment, neither spoke, the weight of their shared losses hanging heavy in the air.
"How are you holding up? And the rest of the group?" Natsu finally asked.
"We're good," Gray replied, his tone calm but edged with steel. "Angry. Furious. Vengeful. But we'll live." He shifted his gaze toward Natsu. "What about you? I heard what the Fairy Heart really was."
Natsu let out a long sigh. "Same."
The two men stood in silence, the shared understanding between them unspoken yet palpable.
"I have the Fairy Hunter's name," Natsu said eventually.
Gray turned to face him fully, his expression hardening. "Do you want me to come with you?"
"No," Natsu said firmly, shaking his head. "I need something else from you."
"What is it?"
Natsu reached into his coat and pulled out two files, handing them to Gray.
Gray opened the first file, his brow furrowing as he scanned the contents. He opened the second, and his expression darkened further. "...Are these who I think they are?"
Natsu nodded grimly. "Raze and Mard Geer. The demons who killed Gildarts and Gramps."
Gray's grip on the files tightened, his knuckles whitening. "You want me to hunt them down?"
"I want us to prepare," Natsu said. "From what Lisanna's gathered, they're some of the most powerful of the commanders of Asgard. Right now, only you and I stand a chance against them. But I've got other business to take care of first... with the Fairy Hunter."
Gray's jaw tightened as he closed the files. "Consider it done," he said with quiet resolve. "I'll see if I can dig up more on them while I'm at it."
There was a pause, the wind howling around them as if mirroring the storm within their hearts. Then Gray asked, "What's your plan for the Fairy Hunter? And Alvarez?"
Natsu's eyes burned with an intensity that made Gray take notice. "I'm going to kill him," he said, his voice low but laced with lethal intent. "In the most painful way I can imagine. I'll make sure Zeref finds his corpse. Then, I'm going to lay curses all over Alvarez to keep them out of our hair—for a while, at least. And while I'm at it, I'll cause as much chaos as I can."
Gray nodded slowly, his expression unreadable. "Good. Make them pay for everything."
Natsu didn't respond, but the fire in his eyes was answer enough. Together, they stood in silence, two warriors carrying the weight of their fallen family, their paths set on vengeance.
Next Day
The next day, Natsu stood on a windswept cliff, gazing at the massive planet dominating the sky. The air was thick with tension, the kind that preceded monumental decisions. His attire had changed subtly, reflecting his evolving resolve and identity.
He wore a long black hooded coat with silver trimmings and highlights, its edges fluttering in the wind. The Yamato was tied loosely at the lower back of his coat, a constant reminder of the power and responsibility he carried. His iconic guns, Ebony and Ivory, rested securely on holsters strapped to his legs. Beneath the coat, a simple white muscle shirt clung to his form, paired with black, form-fitting pants tucked into knee-high boots.
Yet one thing was conspicuously absent—his scarf.
The scarf now adorned Erza, wrapped snugly around her neck as she stood beside him. Its presence was both a comfort and a silent promise. On his other side stood Amaris, her otherworldly aura adding an ethereal quality to the moment.
"Are you sure you have everything?" Erza asked, her voice soft but tinged with concern.
Natsu nodded, his gaze unwavering from the planet above. "I've got everything."
Erza looked at him for a moment, her hand instinctively brushing against the scarf. It was warm—carrying the essence of his fire and the memories of their shared struggles. She didn't speak further, but her eyes conveyed everything she felt.
Amaris, standing with an almost regal poise, broke the silence. "I'll be with him, dear," she said, her voice smooth and reassuring. "Don't worry. If anything happens, I'll force pull us back here in an instant."
Erza glanced at Amaris, her grip tightening slightly on the scarf, but she nodded. "Keep him safe," she said simply.
"I always do," Amaris replied with a small, knowing smile.
Natsu turned to them both, his expression one of quiet determination. "I'll come back," he promised. "But before that, I've got work to do."
With that, Natsu turned back toward the horizon, his determination etched into every line of his face. From his back, a pair of massive black feathered wings emerged, their edges shimmering with a silver sheen as they unfurled to their full span. The wings radiated a quiet, otherworldly power, a testament to the convergence of his demonic and celestial heritage.
He raised his wings high, their feathers rustling like whispers of the void, before beating them with a force that sent a gust rippling through the air. The ground beneath him trembled slightly as he lifted into the sky, his form silhouetted against the rising light of dawn.
Amaris turned to pure light, her glowing form spiraling toward him before retreating into his soul. Her voice, soft yet resolute, echoed in his mind. "We're ready."
Natsu's fiery gaze fixed on the distant planet in the sky. Without hesitation, he descended toward it, the air around him charged with energy. As he approached the invisible barrier that separated their realm from Alvarez, the latent Space-Time Magic embedded in its fabric activated. The barrier shimmered with a kaleidoscope of colors, spreading across his vision in a dazzling display.
Undeterred, Natsu pushed forward, wings slicing through the prismatic haze. A crackling sound like distant thunder echoed around him as the magic of the barrier warped and shifted. In an instant, the world tilted, and he found himself thrust through the veil.
The sky around him changed abruptly. He was no longer in Velmorra. The endless expanse of Alvarez stretched beneath him—a land gripped by Zeref's tyranny. Its cities sprawled like iron claws across the landscape, dark and oppressive under a blood-red sky. The air here felt heavier, filled with tension and malice.
Natsu hovered for a moment, his wings steady against the turbulence, taking in the vastness of the enemy's stronghold. His fists clenched as his resolve hardened further.
"The hunt begins," he muttered, the fire in his heart igniting as he dove toward the land below, a blazing shadow of vengeance descending upon Alvarez.
Aegis Bastion
Aegis Bastion stood as an impenetrable fortress of the Alvarez Empire, a monolithic testament to its power. Perched atop a towering mountain, its vast walls encircled a sprawling stronghold that resembled a small, self-sufficient town. Layers of magic barriers stretched upward, forming an unyielding dome as far as the eye could see. It was said that none who entered its dungeons ever saw the light of day again; the prisoners held here were the most dangerous enemies of the empire.
Despite its grim purpose, life within Aegis Bastion was eerily mundane for its inhabitants. Soldiers patrolled its stone streets, civilians catered to their needs, and even a modest bar offered a brief escape from the oppressive atmosphere.
Inside this bar, Aren Zaygan sat at the counter, leaning casually with one arm propped up and his sword resting against the edge of the counter, within easy reach. His drink, a dark amber liquor, reflected the dim light of the room. The bar was nearly empty, save for a few soldiers seated far from the Spriggan, their hushed conversations doing little to break the heavy silence.
The rhythmic sound of boots against the wooden floor echoed behind Aren, drawing his attention. A hooded figure approached and slid onto the stool beside him, their features obscured by the low-hanging hood.
"Good evening," Aren said without looking, his voice smooth but laced with mild amusement. "You're not one of my soldiers."
"Good evening, Aren Zaygan," came the reply, calm and deliberate.
Aren chuckled softly, lifting his glass. "Couldn't sleep at this hour, kid?"
"No," the hooded man replied, his tone flat. "No, I couldn't."
A moment of silence passed between them, heavy with unspoken tension. The hooded man gestured to the bartender. "A fire whiskey."
Aren raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Fire whiskey? That's not a drink many can handle."
The hooded man smirked faintly. "Well, I can."
Aren studied him for a moment, then took a slow sip of his drink. "What brought you here?" he asked, his tone more curious than cautious.
The man's hood tilted slightly, as though he were contemplating his answer. "The inability of… my 'dear' brother to kill me."
Aren froze for half a second, his crimson eyes sharpening with sudden understanding. A sly grin tugged at his lips. "Vengeance, then?"
The hooded man turned his head slightly, the dim light of the bar catching his face just enough for Aren to glimpse his silver eyes—too familiar, too distinct.
"Suppose so," the man replied casually, his voice carrying a chilling calmness that made Aren's grin falter.
Aren's eye twitched. What was this feeling? A shiver crawled up his spine, though he didn't show it.
"Tell me, Aren," the man continued, his tone shifting, darker now, "do you have a family?"
Aren frowned, his fingers brushing the hilt of his sword instinctively. "Family? That's an odd question to ask a man you plan to kill."
The hooded man chuckled softly, the sound low and unsettling. "I suppose it is. But humor me."
Aren leaned back slightly, studying his companion with a mix of curiosity and unease. "I had one. Long ago. They don't matter anymore."
The man's silver eyes gleamed, cold and sharp as blades. "Shame… yet, still fortunate."
Aren arched an eyebrow, his smirk returning. "Why's that?" he chuckled, the edges of his voice sharpening with a hint of disbelief.
The man's lips twisted into something akin to a bitter smile. "I had considered murdering your family in front of you... watching you crumble as you realized your helplessness." His eyes locked with Aren's, unblinking, almost cruel. "But it seems your lack of one saves you from that fate... and, perhaps, grants me the smallest sliver of humanity I may still possess."
Aren's smirk faltered, his mind racing. The air between them thickened with tension, and for the first time, Aren felt an unsettling chill crawl up his spine. His usual confidence wavered.
"Bold words. Do you not know who you are talking to?" Aren's voice was laced with authority, but even he could feel the faint tremor beneath his tone.
"Oh, I know," the man replied, his voice soft yet dripping with menace. "But you, however, do not."
Aren tilted his head slightly, his hand resting casually on the hilt of his sword. "Then who are you?"
The man drained his glass in a single gulp, savoring the burn before placing it down on the counter. There was a brief moment of silence before he slowly, deliberately, pulled back his hood.
Aren's heart skipped a beat. Those silver eyes—those familiar, haunting silver eyes—stared back at him with the same intensity that had belonged to the Emperor himself.
The man's lips curled into a smile, one filled with dark amusement. "I've been called many things over the years," he began, his voice thick with irony, "Salamander, the first of them. Then came 'Silver-Eye,' my personal favorite. I was known as the 'Demon of Death,' the 'Dark Slayer,' the 'Burning One,' and even the 'Devil of the Night.' But the one you likely seek is my true name. So, before I end you... allow me to grant it."
Aren stood frozen, his grip tightening on the hilt of his sword as the man's next words sliced through the thickening silence.
"My name is Natsu... Dragneel."
Aren's breath caught, his eyes widening in disbelief. His voice came out in a strained whisper, "E.N.D."
Natsu's smile grew, cold and knowing. "Ah, so Zeref has spoken of me? I'm flattered." His tone was deceptively calm, but the weight of his presence was undeniable.
Aren took a step back, his gaze flickering to his sword, but the words caught in his throat. "What do you want, demon?"
Natsu leaned forward, his silver eyes glinting with an unholy light. "Is it not clear?" His voice was low, dripping with venom. "You hunted down and murdered Fairy Tail. Now, I'm here to make you beg for your life. Only, when you do... I'll deny it."
Aren's grip on his sword tightened, his knuckles turning white, but his feet remained firmly planted, unwilling to back down. "You think you can defeat me?" His voice was steady, though a subtle tremor betrayed the growing realization that he was facing something far more dangerous than he had ever expected.
Natsu's smile twisted, his eyes gleaming with a cold, unyielding malice. "My breath is that of stars, my eyes, the depths of hell. My wings are darkness and void, my blade commands space and time. My claws willed death and life in a single swipe."
His voice was like ice scraping against stone, each word a chilling declaration of the overwhelming power he commanded. The air between them grew thick with the weight of Natsu's aura, suffocating and immense.
Aren's magic flared, his energy pulsating like a storm brewing in the depths of the earth. With a sharp motion, he swung his sword at Natsu, an arc of dark energy trailing the blade as it cut through the air. The ground beneath them trembled with the force of the blow.
Aren Zaygan - (Dark Magic + Base + Full Power)- 19.9 Billion MPL
But Natsu didn't flinch.
With a flick of his wrist, Natsu raised his right hand, a subtle but undeniable shift in the atmosphere. As Aren's sword came crashing down, Natsu's fingers made contact with the blade—just one finger—and stopped it dead in its tracks. The air crackled with a power so immense it seemed to bend reality itself.
Aren's eyes widened, his grip tightening as he put more force into the swing, but it was futile. Natsu's smile remained cold, a glint of sadistic satisfaction in his gaze. "I'm going to enjoy this," he muttered, his voice laced with something akin to dark anticipation.
The space between them felt as if it had been frozen in time. Natsu's aura surged around him, suffocating, consuming, overwhelming.
Natsu Dragneel - (Demon + E.N.D. Awakened + Night's Blessing + Enraged + Suppressed )- 46.9 Billion MPL
Aren's eyes narrowed in disbelief, his sword trembling under the pressure of Natsu's hand. The demon before him was not just an opponent—he was an embodiment of a force that defied everything Aren had known about power. And that realization hit him like a freight train.
Aren grit his teeth, trying to summon more power, but it was like trying to move a mountain with a single push. This was no ordinary opponent—this was Natsu Dragneel.
Vistarion
Vistarion, the resplendent capital of Alvarez, stood as the beating heart of the Empire that had conquered nearly the entire world. Zeref, the Black Wizard and ancient Emperor, surveyed the scene with a sense of quiet satisfaction. For the first time since the era of Adam and Eve, the world was under one ruler, his rule. He could not help but miss Guiltina, but that was soon to chance. The Dragon Gods would fall to him in time—only Ignia remained a true threat. But even he, Zeref believed, would meet the same fate as his father.
Zeref looked out across the grand chamber where the Spriggan had gathered for a gala, their presence a testament to his reign. The room was lavishly decorated, every corner bathed in light, but something was missing.
"Aren," Zeref murmured under his breath. "Where is he? He should have arrived an hour ago."
Next to him stood August, his most trusted ally and second-in-command. The old man's power was immense, his wisdom earned over countless years. He bowed respectfully at Zeref's side.
Leader of the Spriggan Twelve
Right hand of Zeref
Rank One
A Mortal Demon
The Wizard King
August
"Shall I fetch him, my lord?" August asked.
Zeref, ever composed, shook his head. "No, let him come on his own terms. He knows his place."
He paused, turning to August with a calculating expression. "Tell me, how are things progressing in Ishgar?"
August nodded, his expression reflecting the same unwavering confidence that Zeref exuded. "Just as planned, my lord. The Asgard Division continues to grow in strength. They maintain their grip on power and have even turned the 'Grand Magic Games' into a spectacle. It serves as both entertainment and a way to keep the rebels distracted. As you predicted, the rebels lack the strength to mount a real challenge. I would say it's best to let the children have their fun."
Zeref's lips curled into a faint smile, his eyes gleaming with dark satisfaction. "Yes. Let them play their games. It keeps them occupied for now. In time, they will realize they are nothing more than pawns in my grand design."
Zeref's gaze flickered with a mixture of amusement and mild annoyance as Irene Belserion made her grand entrance, her presence immediately drawing the attention of those in the room.
"What's with those faces?" Irene's voice rang out with the same playful, almost mocking tone she often carried. "Lighten up, Zeref. You two always get so gloomy when you're together."
She stood there, tall and commanding, her long scarlet hair styled into four braids that cascaded down her back. Her sharp brown eyes glimmered with a teasing mischievousness, and her figure, voluptuous and commanding, only added to her aura. Her attire, a risqué witches' ensemble in black adorned with gold and white highlights, completed the look, and her oversized hat perched jauntily atop her head. In one hand, she held a staff, its ornate design gleaming with power.
Member of the Spriggan Twelve
Rank Two
First Dragon Slayer of Earthland
Creator of Dragon Slayer Magic
Sage Dragon Queen
Queen of Magic
The Scarlet Despair
Irene Belserion
Zeref, despite his usual stoic demeanor, couldn't help but feel a slight unease as Irene approached. There were few who could shake his composure like she did, and she never failed to take full advantage of that fact.
She flashed a grin and waved her hand in the air with an air of carelessness. "This is a party? Come on, kids, have a drink!" Her laughter rang out as she reached over and ruffled August's hair like a child's. To her, August was nothing more than a pet project, though she respected his power.
Zeref's cold eyes flickered briefly before they narrowed. Irene's antics were tiresome at times, but she was undeniably one of the most powerful beings he had ever encountered. Still, he wasn't about to let her treat him like one of her underlings.
Without warning, Irene's hand moved toward his hair as well, intending to ruffle it just like she had with August. Zeref's fingers shot up to stop her, his hand gripping her wrist with a firm but controlled strength.
"Irene," he said flatly, his voice carrying the weight of centuries of authority. "No."
Irene's laughter lingered in the air as she stepped back, clearly amused by Zeref's irritation. With a playful flick of her long braids, she cast a mischievous glance over the room. "Fine, fine, Zeref. Keep your boring look. But you could use a little spice in your life."
August's voice dropped to a whisper, his gaze shifting between the two powerful figures. "Why… do we keep her around?"
Zeref's eyes didn't leave Irene as he replied, his tone a mixture of exasperation and resignation. "She's not normally this… lively and annoying. Just so you know, she can hear us now. Dragon hearing."
As if on cue, Irene whirled around, sticking her tongue out with a teasing grin.
Zeref sighed, but there was a glimmer of something approaching amusement in his eyes. "See? Well, she is sometimes entertaining."
"I agree," came a third voice, smooth and calm.
The group turned to find the speaker. A young man with striking blond hair and piercing green eyes stood there, his body adorned with white tattoos that seemed to shimmer with an ethereal glow. He was dressed in simple monk's attire, the loose robes flowing elegantly despite his inhuman nature. The stark contrast between his serene appearance and the powerful aura that surrounded him made it clear that he was no ordinary individual.
His mere presence seemed to radiate an unnatural calm, and there was an unsettling aura of purity around him—an aura that didn't belong to the world of demons.
"I'm sure we could all do with a little more spice," the young man continued, his voice calm but with a sharp undertone that hinted at his immense power.
Zeref's gaze shifted to him, noting the smooth confidence in the man's posture. "Larcade. You've arrived."
Member of the Spriggan Twelve
Rank Three
Etherius Demon
Volume XX of the Book of Demons
A Light Demon
The White Dragneel
Larcade Dragneel
"Spice? I suppose you could call it that," Irene said with a sly grin, still clearly enjoying the tension she had caused.
Larcade offered a small, enigmatic smile, his eyes glowing softly with an inner light. "Though it is not always the spice, but the fire that truly ignites the heart."
Zeref's lips curled into a slight, almost imperceptible smile. "Indeed," he murmured. "Now, if only Aren would show up."
"I don't know what's more annoying," came a voice from the other side of the room. "Aren's lack of punctuality, or Serene's... everything?"
The speaker was a woman with short golden hair and sharp brown eyes. Her military uniform fit her like a glove, and the sword strapped to her side seemed as much a part of her as her sharp tongue
Member of the Spriggan Twelve
Rank Six
A Take Over Mage
The Warrior Queen
Dimaria Yesta
"I vote Serene's everything," Dimaria continued, her voice dripping with disdain. "Thank the gods he's gone."
From across the room, another voice joined in, this one colder, sharper.
"Ah? You're here, Brandish? I thought you might be somewhere else, busy... fucking off?" Dimaria smirked, clearly not holding back.
Member of the Spriggan Twelve
Rank 10
Nation Destroyer
Brandish μ
"You wish, you bitch," she retorted, her voice playful yet sharp, clearly enjoying the banter between them.
Brandish responded with a wry grin, her short green hair framing her face perfectly. She wore a bikini with a coat thrown casually over her shoulders, her posture relaxed despite her immense power.
Zeref raised an eyebrow at the exchange, though he didn't interrupt. It was clear to him that the dynamics between his subordinates were often just as interesting as their powers. Despite their differences, the Spriggan Twelve were a force to be reckoned with, bound by loyalty to him and their shared goal of shaping the world in Alvarez's image.
Suddenly, a shout echoed through the hall, followed by the unmistakable sound of a gunshot. The voice was distant at first, then came closer with alarming speed.
"Who dares—?" Zeref began, his voice cold and commanding, but before he could finish, the doors to the chamber were blasted off their hinges. A figure emerged from the shadows, its presence so overpowering that the air seemed to thicken with darkness.
Aren Zaygan, Rank 7 of the Spriggan Twelve, lay dead, mutilated and bloodied, thrown across the room like a ragdoll. His body, once a symbol of power, was now lifeless. The sight of Aren's fallen form sent an uncomfortable chill through the room, but it was nothing compared to the figure that followed.
The new presence—something far from human—loomed at the threshold. Its body was shrouded in a dense, oppressive aura, crackling with an energy unlike anything the Spriggan Twelve had ever felt. The figure's head resembled a draconic helm, its jagged edges sharp like fangs, long curved horns arcing backward like talons. The helm's surface was covered in scale-like ridges, and beneath it, glowing blue veins pulsed, as though the figure's very life force was composed of unstoppable energy. Its eyes, glowing an icy silver, were piercing and filled with an unnatural light, seemingly capable of burning through the very souls of anyone who dared to meet its gaze.
The being's mouth was framed by fang-like protrusions, sharp and menacing, designed to rip through flesh. Its chest was a mass of crystalline armor, jagged plates arranged symmetrically like the scales of a dragon. Beneath the surface of the armor, faint lines of blue energy thrummed with power, radiating from a glowing sigil at the center of the chest. This energy pulsed rhythmically with the being's heartbeat, a constant reminder of its unfathomable power.
Massive pauldrons jutted from the creature's shoulders, extending outward with sharp, blade-like projections, crackling with vibrant energy. Its arms were covered in spiked, organic armor, reminiscent of a great beast's scales, with long, jagged protrusions extending from the forearms. From its forarms extended massive, translucent, crystalline blades, their jagged edges glowing faintly, as though capable of slicing through anything in their path.
The being's lower body mirrored the upper, with digitigrade legs built for both speed and power. Heavy armored plates covered the thighs, tapering into sleek but equally jagged shin guards, and the feet ended in sharp, talon-like claws, perfect for crushing anything beneath its weight. A long, whip-like tail extended from its back, segmented and gleaming with sharp spikes, glowing with the same eerie blue energy. The tail was flexible and prehensile, capable of striking with deadly precision, adding to the creature's terrifying versatility.
Finally, four identical wings unfurled from its back. These wings were not angelic, but blade-like in structure, their sharp edges glowing with blue energy. As the wings moved, they left behind streaks of glowing light, emphasizing their ethereal and destructive power. They were folded at its sides like a coat.
For the first few moments, the members of the Spriggan Twelve were frozen in place, staring in awe and terror at the monstrous form before them. The figure locked its icy gaze on Zeref, its voice distorted but unmistakably familiar.
"Guess who's back, brother?" The words reverberated through the room, sending an unnatural chill through the air.
Zeref's eyes widened in disbelief. The figure before him was both familiar and terrifying, with a presence that sent waves of recognition crashing through his mind. He had seen this form before—his own. The creature standing before him, with its draconic helm and ethereal power, mirrored Zeref's own appearance when he had awakened to his true potential. The realization hit him like a bolt of lightning.
"Impossible…" Zeref muttered under his breath, a faint trace of uncertainty creeping into his usually composed demeanor.
"But it is possible," the demon purred, its voice sending shivers down everyone's spine.
"You were killed by Acnologia!" Zeref shouted, struggling to maintain his usual arrogance. "You can't be here!"
"I can, and I am," the demon responded, its voice tinged with dark amusement.
The figure before them began to dissipate, its form shifting and melting into something more recognizably human. The air in the room grew dense with the weight of anticipation as the transformation unfolded. What had once been an imposing, otherworldly creature now revealed itself as the very person Zeref thought to be long dead.
Natsu Dragneel stood before them, drenched in blood, his body still radiating a monstrous aura. His silver eyes gleamed with an intense, almost cruel light. The sclera around them had turned as dark as the night, his grin spreading wider, a demonic twist of malice.
"Missed me?" Natsu's voice was low, dripping with dark energy that filled the room. The atmosphere was thick with tension. Every Spriggan, every soldier, even Zeref himself, stood frozen, struggling to comprehend the impossible reality before them.
Zeref managed to regain some composure after a moment, his voice calm but with an edge. "Fairy Sphere?"
"Fairy Sphere," Natsu confirmed, his smile never faltering.
Zeref's gaze flickered to Aren's body lying in the room, lifeless and bloodied. His expression hardened. "Vengeance, then?"
"First on him," Natsu said with a slight nod toward Aren's corpse. "Next on you, and all the mongrels that follow you."
Zeref studied Natsu carefully, his confidence and arrogance returning with full force. "What makes you think you could do that? You're powerful, yes, but not powerful enough."
"My power as E.N.D. has fully returned," Natsu responded, his voice full of certainty.
Zeref's smile was smug, almost dismissive. "You still lack 400 years of power."
Natsu tilted his head, a twisted grin spreading across his face. "You really think I couldn't find a way to close that gap?"
Zeref paused, a flicker of doubt crossing his expression. "You've... gathered power even while outside of time, even while sealed?" It wasn't a question, but an observation.
"Yeah," Natsu said with a nonchalant shrug. "The Fairy Sphere allowed both me and Amaris to get back all of our power."
Zeref's eyes narrowed, still skeptical. "But you still lack the power to defeat all of us. You still don't have enough to surpass me."
"For now," Natsu replied, the words dripping with cold confidence.
Zeref laughed, the sound dark and condescending. "You know you can't win. Yet you came here, knowing all of us are present? I fail to understand your logic, Natsu. Or have you come here to join me?"
"Join you?" Natsu's eyes flared with intensity. "I've told you once before, I will never join you. And that was before I learned that not only did you betray Igneel, but you also stole his power… before you hunted down and killed my family." His voice was laced with pure hatred.
Zeref's expression darkened. "You chose to stand against me, brother. I had no choice. You betrayed me."
Natsu stepped forward, the intensity of his presence growing, his eyes never leaving Zeref's. "I did not betray you, Zeref. You betrayed me."
Irene, leaning casually against the side, raised an eyebrow and spoke up, her voice sharp and cutting. "Yet, this brings us back to the earlier question. You cannot win, little Dragon."
Natsu's gaze swept over the room, his smile wicked and defiant. "Yes, I cannot win against all of you just yet," he said with a dark chuckle, "but tell me—how many of you will still be alive when you finally manage to put me down?" His words echoed through the room, challenging the very foundation of their arrogance.
A cold voice interrupted from behind, dripping with condescension. "A gamble is all you can offer? Disappointing, coming from E.N.D." August's expression was unreadable, yet the disdain was palpable.
Natsu's chuckle grew louder. "I'll tell you what I told him before I killed him." He pointed at Aren's lifeless body. "My breath is that of stars, my eyes, the depths of hell. My wings are darkness and void, my blade commands space and time. My claws wield death and life in a single swipe."
He stepped forward, his confidence unfaltering. "The power Zeref spent 400 years to acquire flows through my veins—power more ancient than any of you can comprehend. Asweel as power of a God of Night and Magic is in my hands." Natsu's silver eyes glowed with a dangerous, almost terrifying light. "I am E.N.D. Don't forget that."
A tense silence fell over the room before Natsu broke it again, his voice becoming more venomous. "A gamble, you say? Yes, the gamble is whether any of you will survive long enough to stop me before I grow strong enough to kill every last one of you. You've all heard of the Hybrid Effect, right? Of what a Perfect Hybrid can do?"
Natsu leaned forward, his eyes gleaming with dark amusement, the tension in the air palpable. "I'll tell you exactly what's going to happen. By the time you realize what I'm truly capable of, the only ones left standing will be Zeref, August, and Irene. Then, then the real gamble will begin."
Zeref took a slow step forward, his voice cold and threatening. "And what if I just kill you now? No Spriggan, just you and me."
Natsu's grin widened. "Oh my? Seems like you've finally grown a pair? Pity, it doesn't change who you are." He leaned in closer, his voice dripping with mockery. "A coward, a thief, a child… You're still just Zeref-chan, the little boy too scared to tell Elly you liked her," he teased, the words laced with venom, invoking a distant, painful memory.
Zeref's glare darkened, his patience thinning. "You should choose your next words carefully."
Natsu's smile didn't falter. "Tell me, Zeref," he continued, leaning in with malicious intent, "What is one thing Etherious demons excel at? And what are gods known to use when angered?"
Zeref's eyes widened as realization hit him. He whispered, barely audible, "Curses."
Natsu's smile grew savage. "Exactly."
In an instant, the entire continent trembled. Seven colossal pillars of hellfire erupted from the earth, scorching the land with unimaginable fury. A violent storm swept across Alvarez, the very sky darkening in response to the wrath being unleashed.
With a flap of his wings, Natsu returned to the form he had entered, his power surging outward. The ceiling above shattered as if it were made of glass, opening the chamber to the clear night sky. In his hand, the Yamato gleamed with otherworldly power, a symbol of his rebirth.
Natsu's power surged with immense force, his form resonating with the energy of countless beings.
The sky opened up, and a clear view of the galaxy itself spread before them. From the cosmic vastness, a massive spectral version of Amaris, his divine counterpart, materialized.
Natsu raised his demon claw, and with a chilling synchronization, Amaris mirrored the movement. Together, they spoke, their voices reverberating with unearthly power, echoing across the entire continent. The very air seemed to tremble under the weight of their words.
"Heed me, mortals and immortals of Alvarez. In the name of my father, Igneel," Natsu began, his voice thundering across the land, like the roar of a storm that would never pass.
"Upon my authority as Goddess," Amaris continued, her words carrying the weight of an ancient power, each syllable cutting through the tension in the air.
"I curse thee," Natsu declared, the energy in his voice pulsating like the heartbeat of the world itself. The words themselves seemed to twist and writhe, an unstoppable force that would echo through the fabric of existence.
"I curse thee," Amaris mirrored, her voice melding with his, an unholy symphony of intent. The curse was not merely spoken—it was an inescapable bond, woven into the very laws of reality. The consequences would be vast, and inevitable.
"I curse thee with Eternal Night," Amaris intoned, her eyes flashing with divine fury. "The Blood Moon shall rise for every seven times the sun fails to shine upon thy land. And with every rise, ye shall feel the weight of every pain you have ever inflicted, a thousandfold."
A dark chuckle escaped Natsu's lips. "I curse thee with pain," he continued, his voice dripping with malevolence. "Anyone who inflicts pain shall feel it themselves, a thousand times over. Those who turn a blind eye to pain shall suffer until they can bear no more, until their very soul shatters."
Amaris's voice rang out again, like a bell tolling the end of an era. "I curse thee with hunger. No matter what you do, all of you shall hunger—hunger for food, hunger for power, hunger for death."
Natsu spoke once more, his voice a twisted whisper that seemed to wrap itself around the world. "I curse thee with truth. Those who lie shall turn to stone, their tongues silenced forever by the weight of their falsehoods."
"I curse thee with hate," Amaris finished, her words sharp and cold. "Those who harbor hatred in their hearts shall never move again, frozen in time, unable to escape the poison of their own malice."
Finally, Natsu's voice broke through the silence one last time, low and final, like the toll of a death knell. "And I curse thee with damnation. None who perish here shall find peace in death. All shall fall into the deepest pits of hell, and all shall be consumed by despair."
The curses hung in the air like an ancient storm, an unbreakable promise of suffering and ruin. Their words were not mere threats—they were irreversible laws of the universe now in motion. The land would never be the same again.
The land itself seemed to tremble beneath the weight of Natsu and Amaris's curses. The sky darkened, the once-clear night now thick with the palpable presence of their divine wrath. The air crackled with energy, as if the world was being rewritten, reshaped by the unholy power that surged through them.
Zeref stood frozen, his expression a mixture of shock and disbelief. His eyes, usually cold and calculating, were wide with the realization that the impossible had happened. For all his centuries of manipulation, for all his control over life and death, even he had never anticipated such a force. Natsu, the child he had once created and discarded, had returned, and with him, a power far beyond anything he had thought he would wield.
The Spriggan Twelve, usually unfazed by the most terrifying of powers, could not hide the unease that swept through them. Irene's sharp eyes flickered between Natsu and Zeref, her usual mischievous smile gone. August, the ever-composed strategist, looked at the scene with a calculating gaze, trying to measure the odds, but even he knew they were facing something beyond their comprehension. The other Spriggan members stood silent, unnerved by the ominous energy that filled the air.
Then, as if the very earth had heeded Natsu's words, the ground beneath them shifted. Dark energy surged from the cracks in the earth, coiling upward like a living thing, black flames licking the edges of the continent. The seven massive pillars of hellfire erupted once again, and the storm of chaos intensified.
From the sky, the spectral image of Igneel, the great dragon, manifested briefly, his form an ethereal shadow across the heavens. His presence was undeniable, a symbol of Natsu's lineage, the power of fire incarnate.
"Do you see it now, Zeref?" Natsu's voice rang out, cutting through the storm. His gaze never wavered from his brother, though his words were directed to all present. "The power you could never understand. The power that has been unleashed."
Amaris, standing beside Natsu, raised her hand, the sky above them rippling with energy. "The Curse has been set. The time for reckoning has come."
Zeref's face twisted with a mixture of anger, disbelief, and—deep down—fear. "You think you can defeat me?" he spat, his voice colder than ever, though there was a tremor in his words. His composure was cracking.
"What have you achieved, Natsu?! You've cursed an entire continent, and you dare call me the villain?" Zeref's eyes burned with contempt.
Natsu's laugh echoed through the room, dark and mocking. "You think I play the hero? I am a Demon, the Demon of the END. What did you expect, Zeref? I've told you, I'm not different from you—I'm better than you."
Natsu's eyes flickered with the ancient power of E.N.D as he recalled the words he had spoken to Zeref back on Tenrou.
"Gods may cower, angels may fall, Demons drown in pain and terror—" Natsu's voice grew more chilling with each word, his presence growing heavier, more overwhelming. "As nightmares consume you all,"
His eyes darkened, and he continued, the words rolling off his tongue with an eerie, rhythmic power.
"Bloodied claws and jagged teeth, tear the flesh of those beneath.
Screams of horror fuel my might, I am the End of all Delight,"
Natsu's voice dropped to a whisper, yet it resonated with unimaginable force. "I shall bring despair and death … to all my enemies."
Natsu's silver eyes locked onto Zeref, his expression a perfect mixture of resolve and fury. "Farewell, Zeref," he said, his voice colder than ice, yet tinged with an unmistakable sense of finality.
With a single flap of his massive wings, Natsu propelled himself into the air, the force of his ascent causing a gale to rip through the room. His wings beat with unimaginable power, slicing through the very air as he shot upward, his form quickly becoming a mere speck against the backdrop of the sky. The winds howled in his wake, a testament to the overwhelming force of his movement.
In a heartbeat, he was gone, ascending into the heavens at a speed so great it seemed as though he was a comet, vanishing into the distance, leaving the world beneath him trembling from the impact of his power.
Zeref stood motionless, watching as his brother—his greatest failure—disappeared into the night, the weight of his curses still hanging heavy on the land.