Kyoto, Japan
The battle between two titanic forces raged on.
Gildarts Clive, Spriggan General and strongest man in the Alvarez Empire, stood atop a mound of rubble, completely unfazed. Around him, the wreckage of what was once Kyoto's sacred Youkai district lay in burning ruin. The air crackled with the raw aftershocks of his Crash Magic.
Before him stood Sun Wukong, the immortal sage and trickster Buddha, breathing heavily. Despite his divine power, he was bloodied, bruised, and utterly outmatched.
Gildarts hadn't even broken a sweat.
"You're strong," Sun Wukong grunted, using his staff to steady himself. "But you're holding back."
Gildarts tilted his head slightly, his expression unreadable. "Perceptive. You haven't given me a reason not to."
Wukong narrowed his eyes, then took a sharp breath. He glanced to the side where Yasaka and her daughter, Kunou, hid behind the crumbling remains of a temple shrine.
Fear radiated from them.
He couldn't win.
Not now.
And definitely not alone.
As if responding to the thought, Gildarts' body began to radiate a growing, overwhelming pressure. The very air distorted, and the sky above darkened. Birds scattered. Lightning cracked across the heavens. His magic flared like a supernova.
The whole of Japan began to tremble.
Sun Wukong's eyes widened in alarm. "…Impossible. This isn't magic. This is a calamity."
Gildarts took one step forward. The earth beneath his boot cracked.
Yasaka screamed as the weight of Gildarts' magic began to collapse what remained of the temple.
And then—a massive portal tore open in the sky.
A serpentine figure burst through, wings extended, eyes glowing with ancient power.
Yu-Long, the Celestial Dragon of the East, let out a mighty roar that split the heavens and fired a colossal breath of concentrated magic down upon Gildarts.
The impact created a crater several kilometers wide.
Smoke and flame engulfed the area.
Wukong used the distraction instantly. With Yasaka and Kunou in his arms, he headed towards the Dragon Gate, a sacred passage of divine teleportation.
Before stepping through, he looked back.
The smoke was parting. Gildarts stood in the center of the crater, completely untouched. His magic now formed an ethereal golden aura around his body, glowing with unimaginable strength.
Wukong's hands trembled.
That breath attack did nothing…
He disappeared into the gate, retreating into the divine realms, but not without remembering the name of the monster who had descended on Kyoto.
Gildarts Clive…
Heaven
Within the marble halls of Heaven, the seven Seraphim sat beneath the glow of the Tree of Life. Gabriel, serene and radiant, had just returned from her unexpected meeting with Natsu Dragneel.
Her hands trembled slightly.
"He wasn't like anything I've felt," she whispered.
Michael stood at the head of the council table, his face grim. "That is because you haven't felt anything like him."
Gabriel turned toward him, confused. "Brother…?"
Michael's gaze sharpened. "He is the Dragon of Dreams. The Devourer of Realities. The Wanderer of the Gap."
He paused.
"Emperor Natsu Dragneel… is Great Red."
The room fell into dead silence.
Gabriel's wings fluttered in disbelief. Uriel's hands clenched into fists. Raphael could only mutter a quiet prayer.
"You… You're sure?" Gabriel asked.
Michael nodded solemnly. "Yes Father, told me many things about him. How he was once human..."
Uriel finally broke the silence. "Then we've allowed the most dangerous being in the multiverse to rise again… and we've done nothing."
Michael turned to them all. "We must inform the other factions. This changes everything."
Underworld
Sirzechs Lucifer sat at the head of the obsidian table, his red eyes narrowed as Azazel delivered the report from Vali.
"Are you sure?" he asked, his voice low.
Azazel nodded. "Vali saw him. Ophis confirmed it. There's no room for doubt. The Emperor of Alvarez is none other than Great Red."
Serafall, normally cheerful, was pale. "You mean to tell me the dragon that swims through the Dimensional Gap is wearing the skin of a human—and ruling the most dangerous magical empire on Earth?"
Ajuka's usual calm demeanor was shaken. "And now we've handed him Kuroka…?"
Sirzechs clenched his jaw. "We had no idea. We couldn't have known."
Azazel added, "And there's more."
He pressed a button and a projection showed a satellite view of Kyoto—destroyed. Flattened. Gone.
"One man did this," he said grimly. "Gildarts Clive. The strongest shield of the Emperor."
The room was quiet once more.
Serafall whispered, "One man… wiped out the entire Youkai Faction?"
Azazel nodded. "Reports confirm that only Yasaka and her daughter escaped. The rest were obliterated."
Sirzechs' heart sank.
And we thought the Hindu faction was dangerous…
Grayfia Lucifuge – Her Quarters
Grayfia stared at the reports with a pale face, her hands trembling.
She couldn't stop reading the words: "Confirmed identity: Great Red."
She remembered his eyes.
Golden.
Otherworldly.
That's why he felt familiar…
She recalled how he'd looked at her in the Lucifer Manor. Not as an enemy. Not as prey.
But as something above her. Something beyond comprehension.
And now she knew why.
He was never human to begin with…
The image of Gildarts vaporizing Kyoto flashed in her mind. The fallout. The fire. The destruction.
And then she imagined Natsu—Great Red—if he had decided to destroy something.
No magic barrier would have survived.
No world could have endured.
She stood silently at her window.
Alvarez had declared its arrival.
And the world would never be the same again
Kuoh Academy – Occult Research Club Room
The atmosphere was heavy.
Rias Gremory stood before a muted television screen, the broadcast still displaying the breaking news from Kyoto: a massive seismic event had devastated the region. Casualties were unclear. Survivors were being evacuated. The world believed it to be an earthquake.
But Rias knew better.
Behind her, the members of her peerage sat tense and confused. Kiba looked on grimly, Akeno bit her lip in concern, and Koneko's eyes were narrowed.
Issei broke the silence. "This doesn't feel right… an earthquake doesn't do that much damage. Not that quickly."
Rias nodded. "I was thinking the same. Could it be the Khaos Brigade?"
Before anyone could answer, a magic circle lit up in the center of the room. A familiar figure appeared.
Azazel.
The Fallen Angel Governor-General looked more serious than any of them had ever seen him. No lazy smirks, no flirtatious jabs. Only tension.
"Azazel-sensei," Akeno greeted cautiously. "You don't look like yourself."
Azazel gave a short nod, stepping into the room. "Because this situation isn't like anything we've dealt with before."
Rias folded her arms. "Was it the Khaos Brigade?"
Azazel shook his head. "No. This was something much worse. An unknown faction launched an attack on Kyoto… and completely wiped out the Youkai faction."
Gasps echoed across the room.
"What!?" Kiba shot up from his seat. "The entire faction?"
Azazel nodded. "Only Yasaka and her daughter Kunou escaped. The rest are gone."
Even Issei, usually quick to speak, remained quiet.
"The human world thinks it was a natural disaster," Azazel continued, "but the supernatural community knows better. It was an attack."
"By who?" Rias asked sharply.
Azazel hesitated.
And then…
"Alvarez."
Rias frowned. "Alvarez…? I've never heard of them."
"You will," Azazel said darkly. "The humans know them by another name: Atlantis."
Everyone stiffened.
"You mean the underwater continent?" Issei blinked. "That Atlantis?"
Azazel nodded. "They resurfaced recently in the Atlantic Ocean. And Kyoto was their message to the world."
"They destroyed an entire city… just to make a point?" Akeno asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
"It was surgical," Azazel explained. "They targeted supernatural beings only. No human casualties. That's how powerful their magic is."
Koneko growled softly. "They're mages?"
"Yes. Human mages," Azazel confirmed. "But far beyond anything the world has ever seen. Their magic is ancient. Led by the Dragon Emperor."
Kiba clenched his fist. "Even more powerful than the Khaos Brigade?"
"Far beyond," Azazel said.
That's when it happened.
"Wait…" Ddraig's voice rang out from Issei's chest. "You said the Emperor of Alvarez is called the Dragon Emperor?"
Everyone turned.
Azazel paused, realizing his mistake.
"…You weren't supposed to hear that," he muttered.
But it was too late.
"Azazel…" Rias stepped forward, her voice calm but firm. "Who is the Dragon Emperor?"
The Governor-General looked around at the group. Their faces were filled with anticipation, fear, and confusion.
Finally, he answered.
"The Emperor of Alvarez… is the Dragon of Dreams. Great Red."
Stunned silence followed.
Issei blinked. "Great Red? The Great Red?"
Ddraig was quiet for a moment.
"I don't believe it," the dragon admitted.
"The Dragon of Dreams rules Alvarez?" Akeno whispered.
Azazel nodded. "His human form… his name is Natsu Dragneel. He leads the strongest human empire in existence. And they've declared their presence in a way no one can ignore."
Rias swallowed hard. "Are we… enemies?"
Azazel looked at her. "No. Not yet. Alvarez is currently allied with the Underworld. But…"
"But?" Rias pressed.
Azazel exhaled slowly. "That alliance may not last. Their goals are unknown. Their leader doesn't share his intentions. And I fear if he ever decides we're in his way… there'll be nothing we can do to stop him."
Issei gritted his teeth. "Even Ophis is leading the Khaos Brigade. And now Great Red is ruling an empire?"
Azazel gave a sad smile. "Looks like you picked a hell of a time to be born, kid."
Kiba looked down. "Are our Sacred Gears even enough anymore?"
Azazel's smile faded. "Alvarez changed the game. The era of Sacred Gears creating the strongest humans… is over."
Rias turned toward the window.
The world outside looked peaceful.
But war was on the horizon.
And the most dangerous empire the world had ever seen had just taken its first step into the light.
The tension in the room had not lessened.
If anything, the revelation about Alvarez—about Great Red—had made the atmosphere even heavier.
Rias finally broke the silence.
"Why weren't we told?" she asked Azazel, her voice calm but edged with frustration. "Why didn't anyone warn us?"
Azazel ran a hand through his hair, sighing deeply. "We didn't know what we were dealing with. Even now, we don't. Alvarez has the entire supernatural world in a state of panic. Kyoto wasn't just a show of power—it was a message."
He looked around at the stunned faces of the peerage. "The Underworld has been scrambling since Alvarez resurfaced. That continent came from nowhere, and everything changed. Entire alliances are being questioned. Plans are being rewritten. We haven't had a moment to breathe."
He leaned against the wall, arms crossed. "And the worst part? We still don't know what they want."
Akeno spoke softly. "If Great Red is leading them… what could they possibly need?"
Azazel gave a humorless laugh. "Power? Control? Revenge? Who knows. But I can tell you this: Alvarez is not just one powerful individual."
He looked at them seriously. "Natsu Dragneel—Great Red—is protected by twelve elite warriors. The Spriggan Twelve."
"The Spriggan…?" Issei echoed.
Azazel nodded. "They're his personal guard. Twelve human mages, each powerful enough to be considered a national threat on their own. And one of them—Gildarts Clive—is the man responsible for wiping out the entire Youkai faction in Kyoto."
Gasps echoed throughout the room again.
"But… if he's Great Red," Kiba said slowly, "why would he need bodyguards?"
Azazel's expression was grim. "That's the terrifying part. He probably doesn't. Which means these people aren't guards for protection—they're enforcers. Generals. Monsters in their own right."
He let that sink in for a moment.
Koneko narrowed her eyes. "How strong… are we talking?"
Azazel looked her in the eye. "To be honest? I doubt I could take any of them in a fight."
Everyone was quiet.
Issei spoke slowly. "Then what hope do we have if they ever decide to attack?"
Azazel didn't answer right away.
The room suddenly lit with another magic circle. Sona Shitori—Sona Sitri in the Underworld—stepped in with her Queen, Tsubaki Shinra, at her side.
"I heard everything," Sona said, stepping forward. Her voice was calm, but her eyes betrayed the weight of what she'd just heard.
Rias turned. "Sona—"
Sona raised a hand. "It's fine. I needed to know." She looked at Azazel. "So it's true? Alvarez is the Empire that surfaced?"
Azazel nodded. "Yes. And they've already acted. Kyoto was just the beginning."
Tsubaki remained silent, but her brows were furrowed.
Sona continued. "And this 'Spriggan Twelve'… you said they were human mages?"
"Yes. But don't let the term 'human' fool you," Azazel said. "Their magical capabilities far surpass anything we've seen."
"What are their abilities? Their specialties?"
Azazel rubbed his temples. "We only have partial intel. One controls time itself. Another wields crash magic—he disintegrates anything he touches. Another manipulates size and mass. Each of them is terrifying in their own way."
He looked at Rias and Sona both. "They aren't just strong. They're organized. Disciplined. And completely loyal to their Emperor."
Sona glanced at Rias. "What does this mean for us?"
Rias looked to Azazel.
"It means," he said heavily, "that for now, we keep our eyes on the Khaos Brigade. But if things shift… we'll have to prepare for Alvarez. And I won't lie to you. If that day comes, it won't be like any war we've fought before."
He stood up straight. "The era of Sacred Gears defining the strongest humans? That's over. Alvarez changed the world. And from this moment on, they are the greatest threat to peace the world has ever known."
The Nightmare of the Stray Cat
The room was cold, dimly lit by the pale glow of enchanted crystals embedded into the stone walls. The shadows stretched across the floors like creeping claws, flickering faintly as though dancing to a silent, haunting melody.
Kuroka whimpered.
Curled tightly in the corner of the room, sweat drenched her trembling form. Her long black hair clung to her damp skin, her cat ears flattened in terror. The broken remains of the wooden chair she had once been tied to lay scattered beside her, its shattered legs a testament to Dimaria's earlier outburst.
But the true torment was within.
"No… please, no!" she whimpered in her sleep, her voice hoarse. Her amber eyes darted beneath their lids as the nightmare consumed her mind.
In her dream, Natsu Dragneel stood over her sister's broken body, his golden eyes glowing with ruthless power. Fire wrapped around his arms as he raised his hand—and then, silence.
Again and again, the vision repeated.
He killed her.
He killed Shirone.
He killed her.
Over and over, without remorse, without hesitation.
She begged. She screamed. She fought. But nothing could stop the Dragon Emperor.
Outside the prison chamber, heavy footsteps echoed through the halls. A swirl of magical energy pulsed through the air as a portal faded behind three powerful figures.
Natsu Dragneel entered first.
Barefoot, confident, and radiating strength, his appearance alone could shatter the will of a nation. Crimson spiked hair danced with motionless heat, golden eyes gleamed with knowing arrogance, and tribal tattoos twisted down his muscular left arm. A massive sun-shaped symbol sat over his left pectoral like a royal crest. His loose pants were etched with tribal symbols and fur-lined at the bottom, the waist wrapped with a layered sash.
He was the Dragon Emperor. The King of Alvarez. The Dragon of Dreams.
And he had come for the cat.
Flanking him were two of the Spriggan Twelve.
Brandish µ, the green-haired mage who wore her power like a silk veil—gentle, quiet, but unfathomable. Her expression was unreadable as she gazed upon the trembling Nekomata curled in the corner.
Dimaria Yesta, the War Goddess. Clad in her golden armor and smug with the confidence of someone who had bent time itself to her will. She snorted when she saw Kuroka's state.
"Still having her little dreams? Pathetic," Dimaria scoffed, crossing her arms.
Brandish frowned. "She's been like this for three days. Even while asleep, her body trembles."
"Of course it does. He's in her head," Dimaria said, jerking her thumb at the Emperor. "Who wouldn't be broken?"
Natsu said nothing.
He walked closer, the ground beneath his feet pulsing with his presence. His gaze never left Kuroka. And the moment his golden eyes shimmered—
Kuroka woke up.
Her body jerked, gasping for breath, her eyes wide with horror. Her trembling gaze fell upon him, and for a moment, she thought she was still dreaming.
"Trouble sleeping?" Natsu asked, a smirk curling at the edges of his lips.
Kuroka shrank back further, her tail curling around her legs.
"Y-You… you're real," she whispered. Her eyes flicked over his form, lingering on the muscles, the tattoos, the scars, and the aura that choked the air.
He looked exactly like the monster from her dreams.
He was the monster.
Natsu crouched slightly, keeping his eyes locked on hers. "You've seen what I can do in dreams. But I'm not here to kill you. Not yet."
Brandish stepped forward. "She's terrified"
Dimaria rolled her eyes. "She's a would-be assassin. I'm surprised she's not dead."
"Maybe she shouldn't be," Natsu said calmly.
Everyone froze.
Brandish blinked. "…What?"
Natsu stood straight again, eyes now half-lidded as he turned slightly away. "Brandish, you've grown attached to her. I can see it. She's not just a stray anymore."
Kuroka's breath hitched.
"You've told her about your dreams, haven't you?" he asked Brandish.
The green-haired mage nodded slightly. "She told me hers too. About her sister. About how she wanted a life of peace."
Dimaria groaned. "Let me guess, you're about to offer her a job, aren't you?"
"I'm offering her survival," Natsu corrected. His gaze returned to Kuroka, burning with divine authority. "You tried to kill me. And I get it. Ophis gave the order. But you're not loyal to her, are you? Not really."
Kuroka's claws dug into the floor. "I didn't have a choice…"
"You have one now."
The room grew quiet.
"Serve Alvarez. Join Brandish's squad. Prove your loyalty. And in return, Shirone will live in peace. So will you."
Kuroka looked stunned.
"Refuse… and I'll erase everything you love."
His words weren't threatening. They were a promise.
Kuroka looked between Natsu and Brandish. The woman who had cared for her, tended to her, who listened without judgment. And then to the Emperor—the man who had haunted her dreams, but now offered her protection.
She bowed her head, ears twitching.
"I… I accept. I will serve Alvarez. I will follow Lady Brandish."
Brandish let out a breath she didn't know she was holding. Dimaria rolled her eyes.
"Ugh, just don't start crying or something."
"She's not crying," Brandish said softly, placing a hand on Kuroka's head.
"She's coming home."
Hero Faction Hideout
Cao Cao stood in the center of the hall, his divine spear, the True Longinus, resting against his shoulder. Around him, the most elite members of the Hero Faction gathered, their gazes sharp and expectant.
"The Alvarez Empire," Cao Cao spoke, his voice calm but filled with conviction. "A human kingdom hidden from the world, standing alongside devils and fallen angels. A utopia of mages, powerful beyond imagination. But its greatest contradiction?"
He raised his spear.
"It is led by a dragon."
Silence fell.
Ophis herself had warned them not to meddle with Alvarez. Indra, too, had cautioned Cao Cao that they were not ready.
But Cao Cao didn't care.
"Great Red has always stayed out of this world's matters. And yet now, he rules. I will drag him down from his throne. I will prove humanity is the greatest force in existence."
Georg, master of the Dimensional Lost Sacred Gear, opened a portal behind him. "We strike through the eastern sea port. Let us test the resolve of this so-called empire."
Alvarez
The skies cracked open as a portal shimmered above the sea. From its depths, members of the Hero Faction poured out like a swarm—ready to invade.
Awaiting them stood Mirajane Strauss's squad patrolling the seaport. Elfman clenched his fists tightly, standing between the invaders and his homeland.
"Lisanna," he growled, eyes focused on the enemy. "Go warn the capital. We'll hold them here."
"But Elfman—"
"GO!"
Lisanna bit her lip, tears threatening to form. With one last look at her brother, she flew off, soaruing toward the capital.
The battle began.
Elfman roared, transforming into his Beast Soul form and charging into the heart of the Hero Faction. The others clashed blades and magic with elite foes like Heracles,
Leonardo, and Jeanne.
Though powerful, the squad was soon overwhelmed. The Hero Faction were prepared, coordinated, and devastating.
Capital of Alvarez
Lisanna burst through the doors of the Spriggan war chamber, breathless, blood staining her outfit.
"They're here! They invaded through the eastern port! My brother and the rest of the squad are fighting them alone!"
Gray slammed a fist on the table, standing. "Sting. Rogue. You're with Mirajane. Go. NOW!"
The three Spriggan nodded and vanished.
Eastern Sea Port
The battlefield at the Eastern Seafront of Alvarez lay torn and smoldering, littered with the bodies of the Hero Faction. The skies were stained crimson with the residue of battle, and standing amidst it all, Mirajane Strauss faced down the last of the invaders.
Cao Cao.
Her breath was heavy, her clothes stained in blood and soot. Her entire squad, including her brother Elfman, had been slain. Lisanna sat to the side, cradling her brother's severed head in silent despair. Rage consumed Mirajane, the likes of which she hadn't felt since the war. And in front of her stood the source of it all, Cao Cao, the wielder of the True Longinus.
Cao Cao stood calmly, his dark cloak tattered but his form unscathed. His sharp gaze remained locked onto the enraged demoness. "You're stronger than the reports suggested. But not strong enough."
Mirajane snarled, her voice a low growl. "You killed my family. You killed my squad. And you think you're walking away from this?"
She surged forward with a burst of demonic energy, entering her basic Satan Soul form. Her body shimmered with an infernal light as dark wings spread from her back and her hair flared like silver fire. She struck first, her fists cloaked in pure magic. Cao Cao parried with his spear, the True Longinus humming with divine power as it clashed against her darkness.
The battle began in a blur of movement. Mirajane moved with feral precision, unleashing a flurry of strikes and kicks that forced Cao Cao to be on the defensive. He summoned blades of holy energy from his spear, launching them toward her in rapid succession, each one creating sonic booms with their release.
But Mirajane was relentless.
She weaved around the projectiles, getting in close and delivering a devastating punch that sent Cao Cao skidding backward through the shattered stone of the pier. He groaned, blood dripping from his lip as he rose to his feet.
"Impressive," Cao Cao admitted. "I didn't expect a devil to be so physically overwhelming. But now I see why your empire calls you one of the Twelve Shields."
Mirajane didn't respond. Her demonic aura flared again, rising like a black inferno. Her next transformation activated—Satan Soul: Sitri. Her appearance changed, becoming more regal, more powerful, her aura shattering the air around her with each breath.
She vanished from sight.
Cao Cao's eyes widened as she appeared behind him, landing a crescent kick that nearly shattered his shoulder.
He screamed in pain but managed to twist around and retaliate, unleashing a storm of light javelins from his spear. Mirajane dodged most of them, deflecting one with a backhand, but another grazed her side, burning through her demonic flesh.
Still, she pressed on.
Blow for blow, they matched each other in a display of martial precision and magical power. But it was clear Mirajane's strength and speed were escalating beyond his capacity to keep up.
And then—it happened.
Cao Cao backed away, breathing heavily, a look of realization spreading across his face. "I see now. You won't go down unless I go all out."
He raised the True Longinus into the air and began to chant:
"O Spear. The true Holy Spear which pierces through God.
Suck the ambition of the King of Domination sleeping within me and pierce through the gap of blessing and destruction.
You. Announce the will, and turn into a glow."
A divine light exploded from his form as his Sub-Species Balance Breaker activated—Polar Night Longinus Chakravartin.
A luminous halo appeared behind him, and seven celestial orbs floated into the air around him—The Seven Treasures. Each orb pulsed with destructive power, forming spears of light, weapons, barriers, and teleportation sigils.
Mirajane narrowed her eyes. "So you were holding back."
Cao Cao, now radiating with divine might, smirked. "This is your punishment for defying humanity's strongest."
He waved his hand.
The orbs launched forward, combining their abilities. One sealed off Mirajane's magic briefly, another redirected her counterattack toward Lisanna's direction—forcing her to block it with her body, and another orb attempted to vaporize her with a beam of pure divinity.
Mirajane screamed as her skin burned.
And then she snapped.
Her aura exploded, sending shockwaves in all directions. The skies darkened. The earth trembled. The sea churned.
Her body rose into the air, now encased in a new demonic form—Satan Soul: Lilith.
A form gifted to her by Natsu Dragneel.
Her hair became longer, a deep crimson hue. Her wings split into four, draconic and elegant. Her eyes glowed like twin suns of the underworld, and infernal runes glowed across her skin. She was no longer a demon.
She was a queen of destruction.
"You killed my brother…" she said coldly. "Now, you die."
Cao Cao lunged, but Mirajane was faster. In a blur, she shattered his spear with a single punch—its holy energy dispersing like smoke.
"What—!?"
She appeared in frony of him in an instant, fingers glowing with infernal power, and jammed them into his eyes.
Cao Cao screamed in agony as she ripped his vision away.
Still, he tried to fight.
So she pinned him down and grabbed both his arms.
And ripped them off.
Blood splattered the stones. His mouth opened in a soundless scream.
And then, she stepped on him.
Literally.
Her heel crushed down on his groin, pulverizing what remained of his pride.
Cao Cao twitched, blood and foam dripping from his mouth.
And finally—Mirajane lifted her hand.
A sphere of demonic energy formed, swirling with the power of her wrath.
"For Elfman," she whispered.
She dropped the sphere.
A crater swallowed the seafront.
When the smoke cleared, nothing remained of Cao Cao but ash.
She stood in silence, her body shaking, tears in her eyes—but her heart steady.
Even at a distance, the pressure she exuded was suffocating.
"…She really did it," Rogue whispered.
Sting remained silent, watching her.
Mirajane wasn't the same woman who once laughed easily and wore a gentle smile. No, this was a woman forged from grief, vengeance, and rage. He saw the blood on her hands. The lifeless gaze that stared down at the mutilated corpse of her enemy.
"Should we step in?" Rogue asked.
Sting shook his head. "Nah. That wasn't our fight."
"But she's not stable."
"She just lost her brother, Rogue," Sting replied. "If it were you, I might've done worse."
They stood in silence, letting the moment hang heavy between them.
Eventually, Mirajane turned to them, her Satan Soul fading. Blood dripped from her arms, but her posture remained straight, unbroken. Her eyes, however, were still filled with pain.
Rogue stepped forward first. "Mirajane."
She didn't speak.
"It's over," Sting said gently. "You avenged Elfman."
Her lips quivered, but she clenched her fists. "He didn't deserve this. None of them did."
"We know," Rogue replied.
Sting exhaled. "We're not just warriors anymore, Mira. We're family. All of us. The Shields of Alvarez. We protect each other, remember?"
She looked between them, her throat tightening. Despite the blood on her hands and the vengeance in her heart, there was something grounding about their presence. They weren't judging her.
They were standing beside her.
"I… don't know how to move on," she admitted.
"Then don't," Sting said. "Not yet. Grieve. Rage. But don't lose yourself. Not when you have all of us here."
"We'll carry this burden together," Rogue added. "Like true Shields."
Mirajane took a deep breath, then nodded, her eyes still damp with tears. "Thank you… both of you."
And in that moment, amidst the ruins of battle, three of Alvarez's mightiest warriors stood united in grief, vengeance, and unwavering loyalty to one another.
Alvarez
The grand hall of the Alvarez Empire's capital was dimly lit, the atmosphere heavy with anticipation and sorrow. At the center stood a massive, circular table, around which the Spriggan 12—Emperor Natsu Dragneel's elite guards—were assembling. This rare full gathering underscored the gravity of recent events.
Gray Fullbuster stood, his expression a mask of controlled emotion. The magical communication circle before him flickered as he relayed the news:
"The enemy has been defeated," he began, a brief sigh of relief escaping him. However, his next words brought a renewed tension to the room.
"But Elfman and Mirajane's squad, save for Lisanna, have fallen."
A heavy silence settled over the chamber.
At the head of the table sat Natsu Dragneel, the Emperor of Alvarez. His pink hair cast shadows over his eyes, which remained fixed on the table's surface. The room awaited his words, but none came.
The weight of Elfman's death pressed heavily, especially on those who once called Fairy Tail home.
Erza's voice, usually unwavering, quivered slightly, "Elfman was… family."
Gajeel's metallic hand clenched, the creak echoing, "That bastard was a pain, but he was our pain."
Jellal nodded, "His sacrifice won't be in vain."
Mirajane, seated beside Laxus, stared intently at Natsu. Her eyes searched for a flicker of the fiery passion he once embodied. But he remained distant, detached.
Laxus noticed her gaze and placed a reassuring hand over hers, grounding her amidst the storm of emotions.
Natsu's silence was deafening. The Natsu they knew would have roared in fury, ignited flames that mirrored his wrath. But this Natsu was… cold.
Makarov, unable to bear it any longer, addressed him, "Your Majesty?"
Natsu's head lifted slightly, "Yes?"
The room tensed. This detached response was unlike him.
Mirajane's thoughts raced, 'Did he know this would happen? Could he have prevented it?'
Makarov continued, choosing his words carefully, "Should I journey to Mount Meru to confront Indra and ascertain his involvement?"
Natsu's reply was immediate, "Do what you wish."
The brevity of his answer left the room unsettled.
The Spriggan 12 exchanged glances, the weight of leadership pressing upon them.
Sting broke the silence, "We need to bolster our defenses. This cannot happen again."
Rogue added, "Agreed. We should also gather intelligence on any remaining factions that might pose a threat."
Erza stood, her presence commanding, "We will honor Elfman's memory by ensuring no more of our family falls."
The room murmured in agreement.
A Fractured Bond
The moon hung high over the Alvarez Empire's capital, casting a silvery glow upon the grand palace. Within its vast halls, a confrontation was unfolding between two formidable figures bound by shared history and a profound loss.
Mirajane Strauss stood before the ornate doors of Emperor Natsu Dragneel's chamber. Her heart was a tempest of grief and confusion, the recent loss of her brother Elfman weighing heavily upon her. Determined to seek answers, she knocked firmly.
"Enter," came Natsu's voice, calm and detached.
Pushing the doors open, Mirajane stepped inside. The room was dimly lit, with Natsu seated by a large window, gazing into the night. His pink hair caught the moonlight, but his eyes remained shadowed.
"We need to talk."
He turned slightly, acknowledging her presence but remaining silent.
Mirajane approached cautiously, her voice trembling with emotion. "Why didn't you intervene? Elfman was our family."
Natsu sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Mira, as Emperor, I must consider the greater picture. Intervening in every conflict isn't always the answer."
Her eyes narrowed, frustration evident. "So you knew this would happen? You could have prevented it?"
He met her gaze, his expression unreadable. "Some events are beyond even my control."
Mirajane's fists clenched at her sides. "You're the strongest being in existence. Whole factions could attack you, and you'd barely be affected."
Natsu's eyes softened. "Strength isn't just about power, Mira. It's about understanding when to act and when to guide."
She took a step closer, searching his face. "Then tell me the truth. Why didn't you save Elfman?"
He hesitated, then spoke, his voice low. "I have my reasons."
Mirajane's eyes filled with tears. "I trusted you, Natsu. We all did."
He reached out, placing a hand on her shoulder. "And I haven't betrayed that trust. But there are battles I must face alone."
She stepped back, shaking her head. "I don't know if I can follow a leader who keeps secrets from his own family."
Natsu's expression remained calm. "Sometimes, to protect those we love, we must bear burdens alone."
Mirajane turned towards the door, pausing before leaving. "Just remember, Natsu, even the strongest can't stand alone forever."
As she departed, Natsu returned his gaze to the night sky, the weight of unspoken truths pressing heavily upon him.
Despite her sorrow and doubts, Natsu knew Mirajane wouldn't abandon the empire. She had vowed to stand by Alvarez, to protect its people and ideals. This loss, though devastating, would only steel her resolve. She had faced the pain of losing a sibling before; this renewed anguish would become her impetus to confront the empire's enemies with unwavering determination.
Natsu understood that Mirajane's grief would fuel her strength, driving her to ensure that no more lives were lost in vain. Her loyalty was unwavering, her spirit indomitable. And though she questioned him now, he believed that in time, she would come to understand the burdens he bore for the sake of all.
Mirajane
The halls of the Alvarez capital were quiet, a rare stillness hanging in the air. Night had fallen, yet Mirajane Strauss found herself wandering through the marble corridors, unable to rest. The weight of her brother's death pressed on her chest like a boulder. She couldn't sleep. She couldn't think. Only one thing burned in her heart—
Revenge.
Her bare feet padded softly along the pristine floors, her once bright and cheerful eyes now hollowed by sorrow. Eventually, her wandering brought her to a large, arched wooden door.
She knocked once.
"Come in," came a familiar voice.
Mirajane stepped inside and found herself face-to-face with Makarov Dreyar, the Prime Minister of Alvarez. He was seated at a desk, a steaming mug of tea in one hand, ancient documents scattered across the surface.
He looked up, and his expression softened.
"Mira…"
"I need to talk to you," she said quietly, stepping into the candlelit room. "About… everything."
Makarov gestured to the chair across from him. "Sit."
She did.
For a long moment, there was silence.
"I want revenge," she said at last, her voice trembling with both anger and grief. "Elfman is dead. My squad is dead. I don't want to wait anymore. I want to destroy every last one of the Hero Faction."
Makarov nodded slowly. "I know. And you will."
"…Do you trust him?" she asked suddenly. "Do you trust Natsu?"
Makarov looked at her for a long time before answering.
"Yes."
Mirajane's hands clenched into fists. "Then why didn't he do anything? He knew, didn't he? He always knows. I saw it in his eyes. He let it happen."
Makarov exhaled deeply and leaned back in his chair, staring at the flickering candlelight.
"Mira… there are things about Natsu that none of us can fully understand. Not even me. But I've seen and heard enough to know this—he carries more than we ever will."
She looked at him, her eyes searching. "What do you mean?"
Makarov's gaze grew distant.
"While we slept, while the world turned and ages passed… Natsu was awake. For eons. Roaming the universe. Watching civilizations rise and fall, entire galaxies turn to dust.
He's not just the Emperor of Alvarez. He is something ancient. Timeless."
Mirajane remained silent.
"I only know this because Mavis told me," Makarov said. "Her spirit still lingers. She's his closest advisor. She told me stories… things no mortal should know. She told me that
Natsu is older than the gods humans worship. Older than the pantheons we face."
He looked into Mirajane's eyes.
"Do you know what that kind of time does to someone? To be the strongest… the absolute top of existence? Nothing challenges you. Nothing changes you. Until you forget what it means to be human."
Mira swallowed hard.
"But he remembered us," Makarov said softly. "He brought us back. He rebuilt Alvarez. He didn't need to. He could've stayed alone in the Gap, floating among stars. But he chose to return. That means something."
She looked down at her lap. "Then why does he feel so far away?"
"Because he is," Makarov said gently. "Even when he stands beside you, he is always looking beyond. Always thinking ahead. Because he knows what we do not."
Mirajane's voice cracked. "So what is he thinking now?"
"…I think he's preparing," Makarov said. "Not just for Alvarez's enemies, but for something worse. Mavis told me—there are beings in the Gap. Horrors beyond this world. Natsu's greatest fear is not the Devils, Angels, or the Hero Faction… it's what might come from beyond. That's why he watches. Why he guides us… but doesn't fight."
Mirajane looked at him sharply. "You think he's like Zeref."
Makarov was quiet for a moment.
"…Yes. In many ways, he is. Detached. Cold. Driven by something only he understands."
"But Zeref was evil," Mirajane whispered.
Makarov shook his head. "Zeref was broken. Natsu… is burdened."
He stood up and walked to the window, gazing out at the glowing city.
"You asked if you should follow him," he said quietly. "And I can't answer that. But I know you, Mirajane. You gave your heart to this Empire. You made a promise. And you are not one to break your promises."
Mirajane closed her eyes. She saw Elfman's smiling face. Lisanna's tears. The blood. The fire.
She stood.
"I will follow him," she said. "I will follow Alvarez. And I will kill everyone who threatens us. That's my promise."
Makarov turned to her and nodded.
"Then may the gods have mercy on them."
Because Mirajane Strauss would not.
And neither would Alvarez.
Dimensional Rift - The Awakening of the Shadows
Deep within the boundaries of the Dimensional Gap, where space, time, and reason collapse into endless chaos, a familiar presence stirred.
Rizevim Livan Lucifer, thought to have been obliterated with the fall of the Old Khaos Brigade, sat cross-legged on a crumbling floating rock, smirking into the abyss.
"So much noise… so much trembling… The devils panic, the angels pray, the humans scream, and the dragons remain still," he muttered, twirling a sphere of corrupted light in his hand. "And yet… the real game hasn't even started."
He turned his gaze toward the void.
"You're all too focused on Great Red. But there's more to the Gap than just a dragon and a snake. There are monsters even the gods forgot. And it's time to give them… a gentle nudge."
Behind him, dozens of ancient eyes blinked open in the darkness.
Rizevim smiled wider.
"Time to make the gods of this world remember why they built Tartarus in the first place."
⸻
Mount Olympus
A storm brewed over the mighty halls of Olympus.
Zeus sat on his throne, thunder crackling along his fingers, his expression clouded with rage and concern. Around him, the greatest of the Greek gods had gathered.
"This Alvarez Empire… they destroyed Kyoto," Ares said, his hand resting eagerly on his blade. "We cannot allow this insult to go unanswered."
"Fool," Athena interrupted, her eyes narrowed. "That was not an insult. It was a warning."
"Warning or not," Zeus growled, "the supernatural world is imbalanced. The Devil Kings are silent. Heaven retreats. And now the Norse and Shinto gods stir in fear."
At that moment, a shadow moved through the chamber. Hades, god of the underworld, stepped forward.
"I will release the Titans if need be."
Silence.
Athena rose. "Have you gone mad?"
"No," Hades replied calmly. "I have gone aware. Alvarez is not something we can defeat alone. But if the Titans are awakened, perhaps they can level the field."
"And if they turn on us?" Artemis asked coldly.
"Then we die," Hades said, staring at Zeus. "But at least we won't die kneeling."
Zeus clenched his fist, thunder booming overhead. "Then so be it. But Tartarus must be controlled. Only the gods may command the Titans."
Hades simply smiled.
⸻
Asgard
In the heart of the Bifrost Citadel, the Norse gods gathered.
Odin sat with a furrowed brow as Thor slammed his fist onto the war table. "We cannot stand idle! Alvarez mocks us! Let us bring the storm to their shores!"
"Hotheaded as ever," Loki sneered from the shadows.
"Silence, snake," Thor growled.
Loki, unfazed, toyed with a mirror-like shard. "You think brute strength will save you from Alvarez? Their Emperor does not even move, and yet the world bends."
Odin looked at him sharply. "You've spoken to someone. Who?"
Loki smiled. "An old friend. One who still dreams of chaos. Rizevim lives."
The room went cold.
"Lies," Thor muttered.
"Believe what you want," Loki replied. "But he has allies. Ancient things. And they are coming."
Odin stood. "Then we prepare. Not for battle—but for survival."
⸻
Alvarez Empire - Garden of the Dead Moon
A quiet garden under a twilight sky. Mirajane Strauss knelt before a gravestone etched with the name Elfman Strauss.
Her hands trembled.
Behind her, footsteps approached.
"You shouldn't be here alone," Gildarts Clive said gently.
She didn't look back. "He died for Alvarez. And I don't even know if it mattered."
Gildarts sat beside her, silent.
"He wanted to protect Lisanna," she whispered. "He wanted to be strong."
Gildarts reached into his coat and handed her a black tome.
"What is this?" she asked, wiping her tears.
"Something that belonged to the Etherious demons. Books from Tartarus. You'll understand in time. Just know… it's a gift."
Mirajane opened the book and felt a pulse of power. On the first page was a name.
Mard Geer.
⸻
Alvarez Capital - The Spriggan Dormitories
Elsewhere in the capital, squads were returning from missions. Banter, sparring, laughter, and tension filled the halls.
But Erza stood on the balcony of her room, her hair blowing in the wind.
She knew now.
This wasn't just a war between factions.
It was a war between gods, monsters, and the remnants of an empire that had once bowed to Zeref and now knelt before the Dragon of Dreams.
She looked to the stars.
"You brought me back for a reason, didn't you… Natsu?"
The wind carried no answer.