Natsu attacks the black-haired youth to no effect, causing the youth to despair that Natsu is not strong enough to defeat him. The youth unleashes another wave of deadly magic against Natsu and disappears, but Natsu is protected from the attack by his scarf, which turns black. Despite the encounter, the participants continue their exam as usual. Meanwhile, the most powerful dark guild of the Balam Alliance, Grimoire Heart, approaches Sirius Island in search of the youth, who is revealed to be the ancient wizard Zeref. Levy, who separates from Gajeel after arguing with him, is attacked by Grimoire Heart members Kawazu and Yomazu. Gajeel rescues her, and the two prepare to fight against their attackers.