Chapter 253

Let's Hold Hands is the 253rd chapter of Hiro Mashima's Fairy Tail.

Synopsis
The chapter opens with Makarov holding off the black dragon as the rest of the guild escapes. He affirms his declaration that he will not allow the dragon to get past him as he must protect the member of his guild. However, the dragon knocks him to the ground and steps on his wound, injuring him. Makarov smiles as he realizes that he no longer has any regrets and is a true parent now.

Suddenly, Natsu shows up and tries to fight the dragon, to no success as it tosses him aside. The other members of the guild arrive and begin fighting the dragon while Laxus helps his grandfather, reasoning that there was no way they could've left him behind. The dragon repels the mages attacks with little effort as Gildarts realizes that it is holding back, unlike when he fought it. The dragon quickly takes to the skies and Gajeel realizes that it is about to use a breath attack.

Erza tells everyone who can use defensive magic to do so while Lisanna tells them to channel energy to Fried so he can draw seals. Everyone joins hands just as the dragon unleashes its attack, decimating the island and seemingly vaporizing everyone as Zeref, Urtear, Meredy and the magic council army watch from afar. When the attack dissipates, Zeref realizes that it is all over and cries for Natsu. As of January 16 X784, the island is no more.

Seven years later, the magic council had tried to find survivors with no success. Acnologia had disappeared once again and as Natsu once did, a boy with the mark of Fairy Tail stares off into the sea.

Fights

 * Fairy Tail vs. Acnologia