On the train bound for Fiore, one whole carriage had been booked for the Fiore wizards. Most of them were still bandaged up, exhausted, and half-asleep in their seats.
"We helped that prince so much, so why did he kick us out of the kingdom?" Cana pouted, crossing her arms.
Astro lifted his eyes from the Aether sword at his hand, looking at Cana.
"It couldn't be helped," he replied calmly. "He needs to stabilize Joya now. If we foreigners stayed there, people would start saying Joya is being run by wizards from another kingdom. You saw how many reporters were swarming around the royal palace. Besides," Astro stopped for a bit as he looked around the carriage, "he already made sure we'd return home comfortably — and he paid us quite a lot for helping him get the throne back."
Cana groaned, unable to argue with that logic. With an exaggerated sigh, she reached for a drink and started chugging.
Astro leaned his head back against the seat, his mind drifting to his final meeting with Sylvain last night.
"So the royal castle… will it really be able to return to its previous state?" Astro asked quietly. The two of them were standing on the balcony of Sylvain's chambers.
"It should," Sylvain replied dryly. "Joya doesn't lack resources. Don't worry, I'm not cutting your payment for the damage you guys caused."
Astro let out a low laugh. "That's good to hear. I wouldn't hate to pay for it either, though. Fairy Tail is very familiar with paying for the damages it causes, after all."
Sylvain choked on his own saliva. "That's not something a wizard guild should be proud of," he said, glaring. "There shouldn't be damage to begin with."
Astro chuckled again, resting his arm along the balcony railing. "So, what did you want to talk about? Though I think I already have a vague idea."
Sylvain paused, then said plainly as if stating a fact, "The Aetherkrone. You have it now."
Astro didn't answer. Instead, he raised his right hand, and the Aetherkrone appeared in the form of a sword — it glowed purple on Astro's hand.
"It seems to resonate with my magic quite well," Astro said. "But I'm not greedy for it. If you want it, you can have it back."
The weapon pulsed faintly in his hand — like a living being whimpering in sadness — its glow dimming little by little. Astro hesitated, feeling the weapon's emotions, but he didn't want to steal another kingdom's relic. The political headache alone wasn't worth it.
Sylvain looked at the sword in silence before turning his gaze back toward the moon.
"That weapon's been my family's legacy for generations," he began. "The Rosenwacht family gained the throne through it. It brought us glory. My dream was always to claim it and prove myself worthy of the crown. But now… I realize I wanted it because I was insecure — just like Riser. I didn't trust my own strength."
Astro listened quietly, his eyes fixed on the faintly glowing blade.
"You can keep it," Sylvain said at last.
Astro wasn't surprised. He had expected this outcome — Sylvain hadn't tried to take the weapon back in days. "Are you sure?" he asked. "I might not return it if you change your mind later." He spoke lightly, but deep down he already felt a strange attachment forming between himself and the weapon — as if their magics were intertwined. And Astro knew: once he truly got attached to something, he'd never give it up.
Sylvain nodded. "I've thought it through. To wield a weapon like that, one must be strong enough to ensure no enemy can ever turn it against them. I saw how powerless I was that night. I'm not worthy of it — and I can't promise to protect it if someone tries to steal it again. And…"
He hesitated.
"And it's a weapon created by Zeref, the most dangerous black wizard that ever existed." Astro finished for him.
Sylvain smiled faintly; he did not ask how Astro knew about it. "Yeah. Riser told me too. I think my father learned about it, too — maybe that's why he sealed it away. But a weapon made by a black wizard shouldn't be wielded by someone too weak to resist its temptation. I'm not exempt from that."
Astro narrowed his eyes, studying the Aetherkrone's faint glow. "If you say so. I'll keep it, then — as a token of gratitude. If you ever need help dealing with troublesome stuff, you can ask me for help. I'll offer a discount."
Sylvain gave a dry chuckle. "I'll remember that." Turning toward the dark interior of the room, he let his elbows rest on the railing. he continued, "My coronation will be held next week. I've already arranged your return to Fiore. All damages caused by Margrada to the wizards from other kingdoms will be compensated, and everyone who helped with the raid will receive bonuses on top of the promised fee."
"Sounds good, Your Majesty," Astro said in a teasing tone as the weapon dissolved into a swirl of purple wind.
Sylvain wasn't surprised that Astro didn't question him further. The boy was obviously very intelligent for his age.. After a long time of silence, Sylvain asked the final question that had been haunting him.
"Do you think… You could forgive someone who betrayed you, even if they had their reasons?"
Astro turned to look at Sylvain's lonely figure framed by the moonlight.
This prince had finally claimed his crown — yet to do so, he'd given up the family's sacred relic because it was made by Zeref. His master had betrayed him for a dumb reason.. The woman he loved had also been forced to betray him.
The price of the crown… was far heavier than the crown itself that he will wear.
Astro stayed quiet for a while, lost in thought. He cared about many people now — most of them from Fairy Tail. He wondered how he would feel if any of them ever betrayed him. He lifted his gaze to the full moon hanging high in the night sky.
Silence settled between the two again. Sylvain didn't press him for an answer. His green eyes wandered toward the dark room, while Astro's purple ones stayed fixed on the moonlight.
"…If someone I cared about truly betrayed me," Astro said finally, his voice calm but heavy, "I don't think I'd be vengeful. I'd just… be disappointed."
His eyelids drooped slightly as old memories surfaced. In his previous world, he had only his sister — his one and only family. He did not have many memories of his parents. Lying helpless in a hospital bed, he never got the chance to care for anyone else at all.
But in this life, everything was different. He had so many people he wanted to protect… so many bonds he never wanted to lose.
In the present, Astro's hand tightened around the hilt of the Aetherkrone. The sword pulsed faintly, resonating with the storm of emotions swirling within him. He leaned back, resting his head against the seat, eyes tracing the train's ceiling.
"I got a second chance at life," he thought quietly. His inner voice was quiet but filled with resolve. "I'll live it to the fullest. I'll never let things turn out that way, Sylvain. That's the best I can do."
His eyes glowed softly — a determined purple gleam reflecting in the carriage's window.
Meanwhile, far away in Joya, Sylvain walked down the dim corridors of a dungeon. His footsteps echoed against the stone floor as he passed cell after cell.
Inside two of them sat Margrada and Riser, both bound in heavy magic-sealing cuffs that suppressed every trace of their power. Sylvain didn't spare them a glance.
He continued forward until he stopped before another cell. Behind the bars sat Lisa, dressed in a plain prison outfit, her wrists similarly shackled with enchanted restraints.
"Do you regret what you did?" Sylvain asked, wasting no time. His voice carried not a single bit of anger.
Lisa looked up, startled by the familiar voice. She could tell from his expression that he wanted a clear, honest answer — not excuses.
"I do."
Her voice trembled slightly, but she spoke the words without hesitation.
"Then make up for it," Sylvain said simply. "I need capable wizards under me. Work for me… and redeem yourself."
Lisa's eyes widened. For the first time since her capture, her heart started beating loudly — not out of fear, but out of disbelief.
Back on the train, Astro gazed out the window at the rolling scenery of Fiore's countryside.
He couldn't help but imagine what everyone at Fairy Tail was doing right now.
Around him, the atmosphere has grown chaotic. Cana, Hibiki, and Ren were drinking and talking loudly. Shawn was fast asleep, somehow. Gray stared blankly out the window, looking utterly bored; Ichiya was spouting some nonsense to Eve, who nodded seriously despite clearly not understanding a word, and Totomaru sat silently while thinking about something with a nostalgic look.
Astro leaned his cheek against his palm, watching the scenery pass by. He wondered what this world might have looked like four hundred years ago — when Zeref had forged the Aetherkrone for Alvemak.
He wished he could ask Alvemak himself, but ever since that battle, his connection with Alvemak had gone completely silent.
"Well," Astro murmured under his breath, a faint smile forming, "it's better this way. Quiet times like this… are the best."
But he didn't yet know that the continent of Ishgar was far from quiet.
An event as monumental as that night — the night when Prince Sylvain reclaimed his kingdom from the grasp of dark wizards — could never stay hidden for long.
Lunaris City, Bosco Kingdom
A female figure at a lively church orphanage was busy serving meals to the children.
After serving a meal to the last children, Elara wiped her hands on her apron and returned to the kitchen.
By the window stood Kael, gazing out at the gentle sunlight spilling through the stained glass.
"Thanks for your hard work, Elara. But you know, you don't have to come here every day. We already have enough hands helping out lately," Kael sighed, turning to her.
"It's fine! I'm on a vacation anyway," Elara replied cheerfully, grinning. "Besides, I like helping with the orphanage work."
Kael rubbed the back of his neck. "If only it were that simple…" he muttered under his breath.
Elara, of course, heard him. Her smile turned teasing.
"Of course it's not simple. Before you give me an answer to my confession, I'm going to bother you every single day, you—mmm!"
She didn't get to finish because Kael panicked.
"Idiot! Don't say that so loud—there are people here!" he hissed, quickly covering her mouth with his palm.
But the rest of the kitchen staff only chuckled and kept cleaning the dishes. Elara saw Kael's ears turn red, so she decided to change the topic to save him from further embarrassment.
She moved toward the window, looking up at the bright blue sky. "How do you think Astro's doing?" she asked softly.
Kael blinked, a faint smile forming as he remembered. "That boy, huh…?"
Elara nodded. She could still recall it clearly — the mysterious purple-eyed boy arrived from nowhere. And he had left for Fiore soon after. Though few knew the truth, she knew Abel was now behind bars under the Magic Council's supervision — all because of Astro's intervention.
She would never stop feeling grateful for that.
Kael finally answered, his voice calm but certain. "Wherever he is, I know he's doing fine. A boy like that… he'll shine no matter where he goes."
Just then, the kitchen door burst open.
"Akiko?" Kael blinked as a small girl stumbled in, panting heavily. "How many times have I told you not to come in here? It's dangerous!"
He moved to guide her back out, but she shook her head frantically, clutching a folded newspaper.
"Forget that! Look!" she said, waving the paper in his face. "This is Astro-nii's photo, isn't it? Tell me what it says!"
"Wait, slow down—what are you talking about?" Kael took the newspaper, frowning. Elara hurried over as well, curiosity written all over her face.
The moment Kael unfolded the page, both of them froze.
"This is—!" they exclaimed together.
Right there on the front page was a clear photograph of Astro — taken from a recording lacrima at the Joya Royal Castle. It captured the exact moment he had faced off against hundreds of dark wizards alone, standing tall, defiant, and completely unafraid.
Inside the Fairy Tail guild
Master Makarov was enjoying his nap, snoring softly behind his desk.
Suddenly, Levy burst into the guild. "Master! Mira! There's big news!"
Makarov jolted awake at the commotion. "What happened? Which mountain did the idiots destroy this time?"
Mira paused, taking the newspaper from Levy, who was panting from running for so long, glancing down at it in her hands. "Well… it seems like at least one mountain did get destroyed. By Astro's group."
"Oh, only one mountain? That's fine then." Makarov yawned, already sounding relieved. It was just another Monday then.
Mira read a little more and said in a monotone voice, "Oh, and apparently… Astro also destroyed the royal castle there."
"That's okay, just one ca—wait." Makarov froze mid-sentence, his eyes widening. "Did you just say the royal castle? As in… the one in the capital of Joya?!"
Mira smiled sweetly. "Yes~. It seems so. He really outshone all of us this time."
Makarov's jaw dropped. His mouth opened, but no words came out. His hair practically stood on end — and visibly began falling off.
The entire guild, of course, had been eavesdropping on the conversation. And instead of panicking… they erupted into cheers.
"Haha! He's embracing the Fairy Tail way already!"
"I knew he was a natural! We can't let him steal the spotlight!"
"Astro's a real man!" Elfman bellowed, flexing his arms. "He broke every property-damage record in record time!"
"Alright, Happy! Let's go to Fiore's capital! We are blowing up the royal castle there." Natsu shouted, rushing for the door. "We can't fall behind him!"
"Aye!" the blue Exceed chimed, flying right after him.
"Sit down, you idiot!" Makarov roared, instantly growing his arm with magic and grabbing Natsu's whole body with his palm. Years of experience raising that boy had taught him one thing — Natsu is definitely not joking about destroying Fiore's royal castle.
Sighing, Makarov looked over at Mira. "Alright, Mira. Give me the full summary. You clearly knew this was coming and left out the important details on purpose." Makarov had gotten his senses back, finally, and realized Astro would not do it unless absolutely needed.
Mira giggled, not the least bit apologetic. "Hehe~. It's your fault for not asking sooner, Master."
Then, with a smile, she raised her voice so everyone could hear.
"It says here that Astro Blackmist, a Fairy Tail wizard, led a team of Fiore mages under the command of Prince Sylvain of Joya. He fought and defeated Riser, a royal wizard rumored to have power on par with the Ten Wizard Saints. Not only that — he also took down hundreds of dark wizards who raided the royal castle afterward. Thanks to him, Joya was freed from their control.
The soon-to-be King Sylvain didn't comment much, but he personally thanked Astro for his contribution and called him a hero of Joya."
When she finished reading, the guild fell silent for a few moments.
They all knew newspapers tended to exaggerate things — but the fact that Fiore's best newspaper had published the report meant this was some truth to it at least..
There was no doubt about it now: Astro Blackmist, the mysterious newcomer to Fairy Tail, was about to become a name known across the entire continent of Ishgar.
Mira smiled proudly. "Looks like Astro will soon be as famous as our best wizards."
Makarov didn't say anything at first. He just sat there, digesting the news. Then, slowly, a warm grin spread across his face.
"Well, that kid's growing up fast," he said with a wide smile. Then, shouted: "What are you waiting for, brats? Today, we celebrate! Let's throw a party!"
"YEEEAAAH!" the guild roared in unison. Mugs were raised, beer splashed everywhere, and laughter filled the air.
"To Astro!" someone shouted.
"To Astro!" everyone echoed, clinking their mugs high.
Makarov chuckled, completely forgetting about the destroyed castle and mountains. Seeing one of his children make a name for himself in the world made him prouder than anything else.
Meanwhile, far away in Bosco
Elara threw her arms around Kael, laughing joyfully. "I knew Astro would make a name for himself someday! No matter how lowkey he tries to stay, you can't hide a shining diamond forever!"
Kael hugged her back tightly, not caring about the looks they got. Not that anyone in the church cared — everyone there was too busy celebrating the same news.
As tears gathered in his eyes, Kael wiped them away with one hand and said with a proud grin, "Akiko! Go tell everyone — tonight, we celebrate Astro's success! We'll have a feast in his honor!"
Akiko cheered, already running toward the door, waving the newspaper high.
And just like that, across the Ishgar continent, the name Astro Blackmist, a mysterious wizard who can defeat someone who had the potential to be a wizard saint, spread like wildfire.
Somewhere in a remote town in Fiore
A very tall figure was leading a group of wizards, wearing a long fur-lined coat that fluttered with each step. His golden hair shone brightly under the sun, and the lightning bolt-shaped scar running across his right eye gave him a fierce look.
He suddenly stopped when he overheard someone mention the word "Fairy Tail." His sharp eyes turned toward a nearby newspaper stand.
Behind him, a man with long green hair looked puzzled.
"Laxus? What's wrong?"
Laxus didn't reply. He simply narrowed his eyes and strode toward the stand, lightning faintly crackling around his shoulders. The three figures behind him exchanged confused glances before following.
He picked up the newspaper, scanning the front page.
Fried leaned over beside him. "Astro Blackmist? Do we even have someone named that?"
Laxus didn't answer immediately. He finished reading the article in silence, then smirked.
"Looks like the old man finally recruited someone strong," he said, his grin widening. "Let's head back to the guild. I want to see for myself just how powerful this guy is — strong enough to take down someone on the level of a Wizard Saint, huh?"
The townspeople instinctively stepped aside as golden lightning crackled louder around him. Laxus's grin sharpened, his eyes flashing as he looked at Astro's image printed across the front page.
In an ancient castle in the Sin Kingdom
A beautiful middle-aged woman wearing a beautiful green robe that reached her ankles was reading a newspaper while sitting on a throne. If Astro were here, the first thing he would notice how she had the same shade of long emerald hair as Lisa's.
Her gaze lingered on the photograph of Astro, and a faint smile curved her lips.
"So," she murmured, "Our son seems to be doing well. But he joined Fairy Tail, huh? I suppose I shouldn't be surprised. He takes after you, after all — someone who always valued freedom above everything."
Her eyes shifted toward the figure leaning on her throne sideways. If Astro were here, he would have been stunned. The man had the same jet-black hair and glowing purple eyes as Astro.
The man smiled lazily as he glanced at the paper.
"I told you, he wouldn't die that easily." He stretched his arms with a yawn.
"I just hope what I did wasn't wrong," The beautiful woman whispered.
The man stepped closer, resting a hand on her shoulder. "We did what we had to do," he said softly, while rubbing her head.
The queen nodded faintly. She took a deep breath, calming herself. She pushed the man's hand gently and focused on the knights and wizards who steadied their bodies as she got up, waiting for her order.
"Find out everything about what happened in Joya Kingdom — and what became of Fiona's daughter! If the situation is dangerous, bring her back here immediately! We cannot allow a member of the Sin Kingdom's royal bloodline to suffer. "
Her subordinates fell to one knee at once, their voices thunderous.
"Yes, your majesty!"
"Yes, your majesty!"
As the last of them hurried from the throne room, only she and her husband remained.
The man stepped forward and wrapped his arms gently around her from behind. He could feel the tremble in her shoulders — the weight of the years they both carried. They had made a choice long ago, one that saved their son's life… but it had come at a cost neither of them had ever truly forgiven themselves for.
"It's okay. Someday, he will understand," the man whispered. The woman did not say anything; she just turned around and hugged the man. Silence filled the huge room, with two lonely figures hugging each other.