Natsu walked into the manor with a headache and a desire to drink, something he hadn’t had in a long time. Ava had knocked him senseless when she found him staggering around in the yard, rambling incoherently about Toji and how he’d kill every last angel he came across for taking Toji away from him, with Cameo nearby crying. He hadn’t touched a single drop since then.

Now, however, with all that they had learned and knowing what was in store for them going forward, he was more on edge than usual and thought maybe one drink wouldn't hurt. That was until he saw Cameo run to meet them. He smiled to himself; a hug from his niece would definitely be the better option. He scooped her up before either of her parents had a chance to, planting a kiss on her cheek. She giggled, giving him a hug.

She took his face in her little hands and wrinkled her nose. “You smell bad.”

He frowned. “What do you mean? I took a shower this morning.”

She shook her head. “You smell like Daddy when he gets mad.”

Natsu glanced over at Finn who’s eyes went wide. “That’s a new one,” he said.

“I think she can smell Walter on you,” Ava said in his ear.

He sighed. “No, that’s not it.” He handed Cameo over to Finn. “She can smell my energy. I used more than usual dealing with that prick.”

Cameo gave her mother a questioning look. “What’s a prick?”

Finn couldn’t stop the grin that graced his face as Ava glared at Natsu. “Thanks, brat.”

Natsu continued on his trek through the massive front hall, giving her a small wave. “Anytime. My parents should be here soon. Grab your gear, we’re going to be leaving as soon as—”

“Master Natsu!” Victor called, hurrying up to them, his face full of alarm. “Highness, I apologize.”

“Why?” Natsu said, confused. “What’s going on?”

Amber walked in, her eyes wide. “I swear, we tried to tell him you weren’t here but he insisted on waiting for you.”

“Who?”

Victor nearly staggered backward as Natsu hurried across the hall and down a corridor that led to several offices, none of which were meant to be used by anyone for any reason. Victor was continuing to apologize, saying he had attempted to stop “him” but he wouldn’t listen. Ava and Finn were hot on his heels, Amber also doing her best to explain how the man just wouldn’t be stopped, that Natsu was the only person he cared to see. She darted ahead along with Victor to the third office down the hall and pushed the door all the way open.

“Your Highness, I really am sorry, but he wouldn’t wait in the entrance hall no matter what we said,” Victor sighed apologetically. 

Natsu froze, staring at the intruder who was standing in front of the large desk, fingering an old box with strange symbols on it, his other hand in his pocket. 

“What the hell are you doing here?” he demanded.

The man looked up at him, his oval brown eyes widening slightly. “Natsu,” he said, awestruck. “You look so…different.”

“I asked you a question,” Natsu snapped.

“Tsu, do you know this guy?” Ava asked.

Natsu gritted his teeth. “Unfortunately.”

The man frowned. “That’s a bit harsh, don’t you think?”

“Who is he?” Finn asked.

“My brother.”

They both stared at him, even Amber and the usually stoic Victor flinched in surprise.

“Ryu Kanaki.”

-*-