Hope let out a breath as he sat on a ledge near Team B's quarters, having woken up early and left to avoid rousing anyone.
It was really strange, Hope couldn't help but think as he reflected on the dream he had last night.
He was in a hall, standing near a balcony, that overlooked a bird's eye view of a forest and the ocean beyond it. The details of the area were still a bit vague but wherever that was, the place sure seemed fancy. He'd gone to another area and called out to someone...someone he couldn't see very well. Though something about them felt very familiar, whoever that was left Hope feeling safe; as if no harm would come when he was near them. That person had picked him up and while he couldn't remember much from here, he could've sworn he saw the Corona Crest emblazoned on the area they were approaching...
The thing is, he did sort of recognize the place. He had seen it in other dreams in the past. Since it had only been in little snippets at first, it took him some time to put them together. It had taken him some searching but after a while, he was able to find good information in some books.
The place from his dreams was Soleanna, there was no doubt about it. But why would he be there of all places? Just what did it all mean anyway?
''Ara, so that was you.''
He blinked at the voice and looked up to find Mira walking over while Endymion flew to sit near the stairs. After exchanging greetings, Mira went on ''Well, we've made quite the progress in general...but what about you, Hope? Now that you're back here, how do you feel?''
''It's been okay, I think. The idea of coming back really scared me in the past. Even if I say I want to move past what happened the last time I came...I'm not sure how...'' Hope trailed off.
''That's okay, though. No one's expecting you to figure anything out in just a few days. Things were never that simple.'' Mira pointed out. ''It seemed that bad because you've felt alone and at your worst at the time. Now, you've had time to grow and get stronger so this must be like a coming full circle kind of thing. I'd say you're doing the right thing, even if it seems hard, it'll be all right.''
''Mm...thanks, Mira-san.''
''Any time.'' She smiled and gave him a one-armed hug.
Endymion flew to his shoulder ''I'm sure it'll be fine, just try dealing with things as they come. Let's not add anymore concerns. We have enough time to do what you told me about yesterday. If you're still good to go?''
Hope nodded and stood, at Mira's curious look, he merely said ''It's...I'll tell you later.''
What they had in mind was something that was coming for quite sometime. He couldn't shake the feeling that he might lose his nerve if he to talk about it now.
''Surprised you're not hung over, Gramps.'' Laxus admitted.
Makarov chuckled ''You mean because of yesterday? That was nothing, besides, I know better than to risk that with what's going on. I have restraint, thank you very much. Anyway, didn't expect to see you up this early.''
The blond shrugged ''It just happened...some of us are up, they just haven't shown here yet. If what I heard when I passed Team A's quarters was anything to go by for starters...''
''...They're fighting again, aren't they?''
''You've got Natsu and Gray on the same team, what do you expect?''
''Point...'' Makarov paused, noticing a couple of familiar figures talking as they passed by the window. ''...oh, Hope, Endymion...'' The duo turned to look at him. ''...were you going somewhere?''
The first nodded ''There's something I want to do. I'll be back before the games start, Grandpa.''
''All right, go on then.''
Laxus' eyes narrowed a little as he walked away, something Makarov noticed. ''What's with you?''
''...I heard them talking yesterday morning, sounds like Chibi's dealt with a nightmare.''
Makarov frowned ''So it's happened again...can't say I'm too surprised, dealing with his times here is hard.''
''Yeah...it's worse on him more than most. What the people involved in that fiasco did to handle this is just complicating things.''
''You got that right. Hope's taking the high road but if any of them give him hell, I'll show them a thing or two.'' Makarov declared.
''You mean we all will.'' Laxus corrected.
He cracked a grin ''Right, exactly.''
''So that place you told us about really was Soleanna...'' Endymion mused.
Hope nodded ''I couldn't be sure with those images being that unclear...but the ones I saw in that dream are really similar to the pictures from the books.''
''Well, we can't be too sure of the reason for the moment so that's best left aside. I know the subject hasn't come up much since we clarified the fact but you are a noble of Aetheria after all, that might have something to do with it.''
''Yeah...I guess I'm not really used to it.'' Hope admitted sheepishly.
''That's understandable.'' His partner assured. The subject had hardly affected his friend's life since the fact was cleared up. Besides, with the situation and all that happened since? It made sense to him. ''Still, it seems our conclusion was right. The pendant really is restoring your memories. Considering that it restored your older appearance, it might not be so surprising.''
Hope hummed in agreement, stopping as they arrived at a flower shop. Endymion blinked ''So this is what you were after last night, very fitting, all things considered...''
The shop owner behind the counter had just been setting up, turning when her door opened. ''Welcome! Things started off before I really knew it...''
Hope faltered ''Ah, sorry, I just thought...''
''Oh, no, no!'' She waved a hand quickly, cutting the boy off. ''I just meant that I don't usually get visitors around this time and-oh! You're the White Paladin, we watched the battle between you and Iron Rock Jura, you were great!''
''Thank you.'' He returned.
''No wonder you came now...there's still time for the games to start.'' The woman concluded. ''So what can I do for you?''
''I've been meaning to go to the cemetery.'' Hope admitted. ''It's just that this is the first time and...I thought it was appropriate to bring some flowers. So I was wondering if you could help me choose.''
''Of course!'' She assured. ''In fact, I know just the ones. This is sweet of you.''
''I don't know about that...it's just the right thing to do as far as I'm concerned. If I had the choice, I would've visited a long time ago.''
The shop owner could tell that there was quite a meaning to his words but she decided against asking, seeing how troubled he was. ''Well, I'm sure the people you're going for will be glad to know you thought of them. Why don't you follow me?''
She had done quite a job and handed the boy an impressive assortment of flowers, bidding him good luck, proudly stating that she supported Fairy Tail in the games.
It wasn't too long before they made it to their destination. All that was needed to do to find the graves marked from the time Hope lived here and go from there. It proved to be the right idea and soon Hope found names familiar to him. There were some he didn't quite remember, but it didn't stop him, he wanted to give the respect they deserved.
After a little while, he found the two graves that had been the main reason behind his motivation to visit this place. Deciding to give his friend some privacy, Endymion flew to a tree branch.
The two slabs that weren't far from each other. One read Julian Black and the other Amy Rhodes.
He picked some of the flowers to place at the two places before stepping back. ''Amy, Julian, it's been too long. I've been meaning to come for years but there was no way around it. Though you might know a thing or two about that...''
Now that he was here, Hope couldn't help but think back. When he first arrived in Fiore and learned of his new situation; he'd been lost and troubled but he got to meet them. The two had welcomed him just like that and they became fast friends. Amy was a bit abrasive and too blunt at times but she was only like that because she cared, only being hard on people when necessary. Julian liked his jokes and was a bit headstrong, yet he was incredibly loyal. They had been the ones to introduce Hope to their friends and helped him connect to them. The times they spent together meant a lot to Hope and he still thought of them as important friends.
''...Remember when we used to pretend to be guild wizards? Well, it actually happened with me.'' Hope went on. ''I wound up joining Fairy Tail...I wasn't sure at first but I met another friend, I think you two would like him. We had some trouble at first but now I can't imagine what it's like without him. He helped me out so much. When things were at their worst, he even helped me pull through...after that, I met so many good people. Fairy Tail helped me out so much...things can get really crazy there but it's an amazing guild.''
Endymion felt for him, this had to be difficult. However, as Hope said, it should've happened a long time ago. He still believed that Hope was just giving him far too much credit. In a sense, he hadn't so much as tried to reach out to the boy when he had been at his lowest point. No, Hope pulled through that all on his own. He'd even been the reason the phoenix could open up. Endymion just wished he could convince Hope to have more faith in himself. The phoenix suspected that he would've really hated humans after what Demon Fang had it not been for his partner. His first most clear impression was that he had never seen someone with such a kind soul. Even with his experiences, Hope kept trying, he persevered and tried to do his best. As far as he was concerned, that should be good enough for anybody. He wondered if there was someway he could his help his charge now...
''I guess I'm rambling now...'' Hope mused. ''...but I've been wanting to tell you about things for years. I get it if you're mad at me...''
''...I have to say, you're likely the last person they'd ever be angry with.''
The boy started and turned to find a man in dark robes arriving to stand at Hope's right.
Hope frowned pensively, he hadn't seen the man in a long time but there were some features he could recognize. ''...Darton-san?''
Darton inclined his head in return ''I never thought I'd find you here, Chris...no, pardon me, it's Hope, correct?''
''One would think it was clear...'' Endymion landed on his charge's shoulder. ''...that Hope has already blown your so called expectations apart.''
''...I concede the point.'' Darton said after a moment. ''When young Michael told us everything, it seemed crazy. The fact that we've misunderstood so much...and made such terrible mistakes. People from all over the country regularly come by the capital. That's how we've come to hear as much as we did about the White Paladin...to think it was you of all people.''
''You're taking this awfully lightly.'' Endymion pointed out. ''What those two did yesterday is bad enough and now you...do you people even understand the consequences of your actions that night? You cost Hope everything...He went through so much, it all even started because he cared for you...''
''I...''
''Endymion, stop.'' Hope cut in, sparing his partner a grateful look. He really hadn't expected to run into anyone who would remember him now; he didn't know how to deal with it. ''Thanks, really but let's just leave it alone. I'm not expecting anything from anyone, you know that. That's never been why I came back. And...none of this talk would change a thing. What's done is done, we need to go anyway. Everyone will be getting ready to head to the stadium. We're supposed to come back before the games start, remember?''
''Right. Very well then...'' The phoenix conceded before flying up, soon the two left.
Darton watched them leave for a moment before sighing '...I know he's right but if only I knew how to even begin apologizing now. I highly doubt words would suffice, let alone if there's any way we can mend things after the pain we caused him...I wonder if that's how his majesty feels. That child truly has grown...'
When they made it back, it was to find the guild's temporary HQ buzzing with activity...
''You're already trying to fantasize about us winning the bet?'' Lucy spared Natsu an unimpressed look.
''Yeah! Aren't you? It'll be great!''
''You're the one who thinks so.'' She smiled upon noticing Hope and Endymion. ''Hey, guys! Where've you been?''
''Just taking care of something-I'll tell you later.'' Hope added at her curious look.
''All right...''
''So really, don't you want anything for the bet, Lucy?'' Natsu inquired. ''It could be really fun.''
''I'm not going near that stupid deal with a ten foot pole.'' was her response. A thought occurred to her then. ''Hey, how come you're not asking Hope?''
''Well I can't see him wanting any part in it.''
''When you put it like that, I can't imagine it either...'' She admitted.
Hope gave them a curious look, not sure what to say. They were right though, he had absolutely no interest in the bet. Endymion seemed to know what he had in mind because he said ''Don't worry, that's a good thing.''
''Definitely-hey, wait a minute, Natsu, you think I would?'' Lucy demanded, affronted. ''What do you take me for?!''
The dragon slayer just shrugged ''It's just a feeling I had.'' He turned to look at Hope, missing her irritated glare. ''So did anyone in Team B bring that up?''
The boy nodded ''A few times...''
''Let me guess, Juvia?'' Lucy tilted her head.
''And Gajeel too.'' Endymion returned.
Soon they arrived at the hall which lead to the corridors to the team stations, which meant they had to split up. Hope looked at Natsu and Lucy ''Good luck.''
''Thanks!'' Lucy beamed.
''Back at you.'' Natsu added.
''That's a little strange, considering what you said earlier. Natsu, you do realize that it could count as you wishing Team B luck?'' Endymion wondered.
''No way.'' He said immediately. ''That was for Hope.''
Lucy rolled her eyes but Hope laughed as she spoke ''I had a feeling he'd say something like that...''
Endymion proved that he also picked up on this ''Well, we've known each other this long after all.''
''That's true. Well, we better get going. See you!''
Minutes later, as he turned around a corner, Hope almost bumped around a corner but stopped himself in time.
''I'm sorry...'' He started, blinking when he saw it was Kagura.
''That's all right. No harm done.'' She assured.
Remembering yesterday's events prompted Hope to go on ''You were great in that match. I don't think I've seen anybody use a sword that well other than Erza...with an unsheathed sword too.''
''Thank you, I'm flattered you think so. Then again, you're no slouch yourself, your own performance in that match was impressive.'' She returned. ''I know we need to head out soon so I'll make this short. There's something I've been meaning to ask a member of your guild, if you could spare a moment?''
''Sure, what is it?'' Hope looked curious.
''That Mystogan person...is it true that he's connected to Jellal Fernandes?''
Endymion blinked, wondering how she learned about this. Hope began to answer ''Well...in way but it's complicated. Your information's dated, Kagura-san, thing is...''
''I see...'' Kagura crossed her arms as he gave a brief explanation about Edolas.
''I know it sounds crazy but it's the truth.'' Hope added. ''Us winding up there is the whole reason things turned out the way they did. We couldn't believe it either but it was hard not to when we saw our other selves there.''
''It is a little much to swallow...'' Kagura trailed off. ''...but I've heard some of this after a friend of mine started looking into it because of the exceeds.'' Truth was, her guild mate had been after one to keep but she hadn't able to find any who would agree. As much as she loved cats, Millianna would never force one to stay with her. One exceed had been willing to tell her a lot about Edolas though and it cleared up quite a few things.
Kagura thought it over, she didn't see any reason for the boy to lie and there was no sign of Mystogan at all. It also would explain why the man had never been known to show his face.
''About that...why do you want to know about this in the first place?'' Endymion inquired.
Kagura's expression darkened as she answered ''I'm looking to correct an old wrong...I have to. At any rate, thank you, Hope Dreyar, that was all I needed to hear.''
''Ah, right...'' The boy looked troubled as they saw her leave. ''...Endymion...''
''You noticed too?'' The phoenix received a nod. Both couldn't help but pick up on how angry she seemed just now. Endymion had a sinking suspicion that she had really been restraining herself to boot. ''I think we need to talk to Erza about this. In any case, she had the right idea. Let's get going.''
Hope nodded back and the two headed off to Team B's station.
''Welcome one and all back to the Grand Magic Games! With an exciting two days behind us, we now launch to the third day!'' Chapati called, hearing the audience cheer. ''The chosen event to start us off is Pandemonium! Our special guest for today is someone you had better be on your best behavior for, Council member and head of the Custody Enforcement Unit, Lahar!''
''Thank you for having me today.'' The man smiled before continuing with a teasing tone. ''All you cheaters better watch out.''
''Pandemonium?'' Romeo echoed.
''The word itself means a house of demons.'' Freed offered.
''Huh, wonder if that's related...''
''With the stuff they cook up here? You never know.'' Warren remarked.
Makarov nodded ''Hm, maybe it's something like playing in a haunted house and...'' He suddenly pulled off a rather intense look that scared those nearby. ''...suddenly being jumped by monsters!''
Lily sweatdropped ''That wasn't necessary.''
The two noticed Mavis shaking a little before she looked up with tears forming in her eyes ''That would be scary...''
''This, coming from the ghost herself.'' Rebecca deadpanned before looking towards the team stations. ''Wonder who they'll choose...''
''Let me go! I still want some action!'' Natsu exclaimed.
''Oh, quit being selfish, you're not the only one who wants to get out there.'' Gray stated.
Lucy was quick to voice her agreement ''Yeah, Natsu, I'm sure we'd all want to participate.''
''What do you think, Erza-san?'' Wendy asked, noting the redhead's thoughtful look.
She answered after a few moments ''...I'll enter. Having Natsu participate might complicate things after what happened last night.''
''Sounds fine to me.'' Gray shrugged.
''Good luck!'' Wendy added.
''I bet you'll do great!'' Lucy exclaimed.
Erza spared the three a small smile before making her way to the field. Natsu huffed ''That's not fair...''
Chapati quickly picked up on this ''From Fairy Tail Team A, it's Erza Scarlet!''
Millianna perked up at the sight of her old friend ''Oh, if it's like that...Kagura-chan, can I go?'' She asked Kagura.
''I'll permit it.''
''Mermaid Heel sends Millianna!''
''Wait, isn't she...?'' Lucy trailed off, recognizing the girl.
''Huh, I remember her...so she was the one in the hood all along?'' Gray cocked his head.
The brunette grinned as she ran past Erza ''Er-chan, I won't lose.''
Erza smiled ''Neither will I.''
As it turned out, the knight mage's suspicions about Natsu's actions yesterday having some consequences were correct. With Yukino excommunicated, her spot was filled by the guild master Jiemma's daughter, Minerva, who had been on a job earlier. In fact, she was the one who stopped the battle before it could get worse and calmed the air down. Not that it fully worked, some in the guild were still recalling the mess after Natsu showed up, Orga in particular was still peeved about it all.
''Watching that yesterday just got me pumped, it's my turn.'' The man decided.
''That's fine.'' Minerva returned.
''Yeah, can't say I'm all that interested.'' Sting shrugged. He was only interested in facing Natsu, last night's events cementing his impression of the dragon slayer, he couldn't wait to battle him.
Rogue on the other hand found himself reflecting on his and Frosch's meeting with Hope and Endymion. As he mentioned, he did think what happened to Yukino was too much. He had been confused to say the least, Jiemma's methods ensured that they could be the top guild all this time but Sabertooth dismissed the value of friendship and bonds, Fairy Tail didn't and look at them. He found it hard to ignore their values with the progress they made.
'Is it really empty strength after all?' He thought to himself.
''Sabertooth chooses Orga!''
Obra entered for Raven Tail, with the warning to not show his magic courtesy of Alexei, to which he merely nodded.
Hibiki straightened his collar ''Well then I suppose I'll enter, for the fans.'' Quite a few noticed rising cheers when he joined the competition.
Nobarly entered for his guild ''WILD!''
''FOUR!'' The rest of Quattro Puppy called back on cue.
''Raven Tail's Obra enters, also Blue Pegasus' Hibiki of the Trimens and Quattro Puppy picks Nobarly!''
''I'd like to enter.'' Lyon told the rest of his team.
Jura inclined his head ''That's fine.'' He raised an eye as he noticed a crying Toby nearby ''What's wrong?''
Cheria laughed sheepishly ''Don't mind that so much. He's still sore over that sock...'' The two sweatdropped. ''...Anyway, good luck, Lyon!''
Mira turned the rest of her team ''What do you think?''
''Juvia doesn't like that last minute rule, it's troublesome.'' The water mage sighed, that being the first reason she was torn. The name Pandemonium just left her feeling a little wary.
''Yeah, it's a pain but there's no helping it. We just have to work with that.'' Laxus said with a shrug.
''Is it okay if I enter?'' Hope inquired.
''Well, I'd say so...'' Mira glanced at Laxus, who nodded.
Gajeel grunted, truth be told he did want to participate but he was a little also cautious of what could be in wait for them. Hearing about something of the sort from their guild mates who had participated in a situation like that and seeing what happened to Sting in the Chariot event was all to clear of a reminder of the events backfiring on them. It was especially important as he really did want Team B to win the bet. ''I want to get on it but...meh, yeah, sounds fine. I can wait a little longer.''
''Do you best, Hope-san.'' Juvia added with a smile. The boy nodded back and left.
''Finally, Lamia Scale's Lyon Vastia enters and for Fairy Tail's B team it's Hope Dreyar Sherwind!''
Erza gave a bemused look as the two joined them ''Oh, so I'm going up against you as well, Hope? Let's give it our all.''
He smiled back ''Right.''
''With the competitors chosen, now it's Mato's turn to explain the rules.'' Chapati continued, the mascot in question stepping up then.
''Right-kabo! First things first...'' Mato snapped his fingers and a dark magic seal appeared high over the field. The area began to tremble as a massive, malevolent looking castle with chains all around its sides and skulls on the top roof appeared.
Nobarly's jaw dropped ''What the heck?!''
''This is the castle of monsters, Pandemonium!'' Mato exclaimed. ''Inside are monsters we prepped up out of pure magic just for this competition! They're classified by the rankings, D, C, B, A and S. Here, I'll give you a first look!''
A screen appeared near him, revealing a number of the monsters in question. Indeed, they could see difference in ranks as some appeared more powerful than the others.
A few of the guild teams looked on in wonder and slight envy, wanting to be where their teammates were. Others were more or less unnerved by the whole things. Mato then went on ''We'll be having you draw straws to decide your number and then you'll take turns to choose your writ of challenge!''
Hibiki raised an eye ''Ah, so we get to decide the terms of our battles?''
''Exactly-kabo! Say if you wanted to face five monsters, that's what you'll find. You'll get five points. The one after you will have a choice out of the 95 remaining monsters and so on. The points are added up by the total amount of monsters you defeat. If you're knocked out, you keep the points you earned up to that point and that decides your rank. Since we're on that subject, the monsters are classified by difficulty from D being the lowest to of course S the highest.''
''So it isn't just about having the power to keep up the fight...'' Evergreen trailed off.
Endymion nodded ''It's really demanding. They'll have to consider many things, the monsters' abilities, how to adapt to which ever one they'll face and the skills they'll need to get through this.''
''I see...this might be complicated for me.'' Hibiki accessed his archive. ''I'll have to factor everything in to find an appropriate strategy.''
Orga scoffed ''Didn't you hear him? He just said the monsters are randomized, strategy won't matter with that.''
The Blue Pegasus mage was still confident though ''Oh, I'd beg to differ. With the correct strategy, even probability can be used well.''
Mato then passed a box with the straws around for them and they all drew one. A seal displaying the number one was on Erza's straw. ''So I'm first...This is indeed fortunate.''
Hope gave her a curious look ''Erza?''
She began to smile ''You see, I wondered if luck could be counted on in this game. No...perhaps I shouldn't call it a game anymore...''
''What do you mean-kabo?'' Mato tilted his head.
''It's quite simple, really. I've already made my decision.'' She stepped up, facing Pandemonium. ''I, Erza Scarlet, exercise my writ of challenge to choose all 100 monsters.''
To say this was a surprise would be an understatement.
The redhead's declaration had left many speechless. While some were wondering if she was joking, everything about her stance and tone proved otherwise. Mostly, now people were just wondering how she could say it just like that...
''Oh, honestly...'' Endymion shook his head, though those who heard him picked up on the mixture of exasperation and amusement he felt. He might have been surprised if it was anyone else, really...
There were others who shared the sentiment. Natsu and Gray were flat out cackling at the point while Hope had to hold back his own laughter.
''W-wait!'' Mato exclaimed while most of the participants stared at her in shock. ''Challenging all of them is crazy, it's not meant for one person to do that! You can't do it!''
''Watch me.'' She retorted before entering Pandemonium, in moments people could see her coming to a hall. Then, the monsters began to appear in droves and everyone knew the hundred monsters would soon become visible for all.
''Oi, what's so funny?'' Nobarly asked Hope, picking up on the teen's mood.
''Ah, I was just thinking...this is just like Erza.''
''Isn't this too much? Juvia can't imagine facing so many.'' Juvia frowned in concern.
''Somehow I find it hard to picture her in trouble, Erza wouldn't just choose this for no reason.'' Gray pointed out.
''I think she'll be fine.'' Mira smiled.
Laxus cracked a smirk ''Yeah, this'll be interesting.''
Erza's eyes narrowed at the sight of her opposition ''Come.''
The monsters charged and she began to glow. In seconds, she slashed through the first wave of attacks with her Heaven's Wheel Armor. She held out her arms and a myriad of swords appeared above her.
''Blumenblatt!''
The swords hailed down, destroying the weakers monsters while trapping others and injuring the rest.
Mavis began to smile ''What skill...''
''Yeah...'' At the curious looks this elicited, Makarov elaborated. ''...she used that strike to gain a better idea about the monsters, like finding out about their abilities and weaknesses.''
Erza donned her Black Wing armor and launched a series of attacks that cleared out a crowd. A fire-breathing monster let out a burst of flames that seemed to hit her but then she emerged unharmed from the smoke, the reason becoming clear at the sight of her Flame Empress armor. When the monster attacked again, she requipped her Sea Empress armor's trident to destroy it. A few more monsters tried to attack her from above, but she took up her Lightning Empress' armor and electrocuted them.
One of the A-class monsters charged then, throwing her against a wall. A second one makes to punch her along with the first trying to claw at her but then both their arms are destroyed. The smoke clears and Erza is revealed to be wearing her Adamantine armor, she grabbed one monster and threw it out before donning her Flight Armor and slicing through many monsters together.
''Incredible! She's already taken down 50 monsters!'' Chapati announced.
Rebecca smiled ''She's doing great!''
''Way to go, Er-chan!'' Millanna called.
''Che, how the hell...'' Orga looked annoyed. ''...come on, there's no way she can take them all!''
Erza wasn't about to stop here, however. She soon noticed a small monster that seemed to be observing the battle and sensed something foreboding that prompted her to chase it but other monsters got in the way. She donned her Giant's Armor and punched a few back with its enhanced strength before taking the others down with the armor's spear.
Everyone watched in awe as she continued to fight, undeterred by the odds in her way. She demonstrated the power of her magic at its fullest, using others armors like Purgatory and it was clear that she wouldn't stop. The shock from the beginning had worn off and watching this was making many filled with happiness. Levy believed that no one would forget this day, this was truly amazing. They were witness a fallen fairy rising to the skies, like a scarlet flower blooming with pride. This was Fairy Tail's one and only Titania.
Erza proceeded to requip her Robe of Yuen and swiftly took down three monsters that attempted to get the drop on her. She panted, the strain of the battle now clearly affecting her. Seeing that the remaining monsters were of of the higher ranks that were getting together prompted her to make a quick call.
In a flash, she donned her Armadura Fairy armor and prepared two swords before attacking. She took the first two down with a few slashes before charging one sword with magic and thrusting it forward, releasing a beam that destroyed three more. Erza held the swords together so that they made an x-shape.
''Fairy Burst!'' She released waves of power that destroyed the remaining monsters.
''W-wow, she actually took down 99 of the monsters!'' Chapati's jaw dropped.
''Amazing indeed.'' Yajima smiled.
Erza panted as she requipped back to her standard armor, holding one arm to the wall to support herself. No one blamed her for being worn though, she had given quite the battle. Her eyes narrowed at the sight of the small monster coming back.
Natsu blinked ''So it's just that thing? Bet it'll be a piece of cake!''
Erza's next words surprised him ''As I thought you're the S-class monster...''
''Are you for real?!''
''It's...kind of cute.'' Wendy remarked.
Gray blinked twice ''Yeah, not what I'd expect at all.''
''It can't be that bad, right?'' Lucy wondered.
Gajeel snorted as they watched Erza take up a stance and requip two swords ''You're kidding, right? From the way Titania's acting, it's trouble.''
The redhead attacked then but the monster's eye widened and a shockwave went through the area they were at as a bright light engulfed it.
''I told her this was impossible...'' Mato shook his head and his words seemed to be not unfounded as the monster, which now looked a big black demon, kicked Erza into a wall. ''...it's set up so that the S-class' strength would triple if it was left to be the last. I'd say it's game over.''
Erza struggled to get out of the monster's grip as it held her up. With a roar, it kicked her into the air. She was clearly not giving up though as she managed to regain her balance and strike back just as it flew after her, avoiding its attack. She attacked furiously back, heavily damaging the monster's arm and chest, letting her spot its core. With a few more slashes, she was about to destroy said core and the monster crumbled into nothing as a result.
Her battle won, Erza stood triumphantly, despite her injuries with one of her swords aimed towards the sky.
It took Chapati a few moments to find his voice as the judges simply gaped at the result.
''T-that was...well, wow...what a spectacular battle! Erza Scarlet did it, she ended the Pandemonium all on her own! This means Fairy Tail A single-handedly swept through the competition today! There's really no denying it now, Fairy Tail's unstoppable!''
The crowds were screaming to the heavens, all amazed beyond words at the display before their eyes. None had been so much moved as Erza's own guild, who were overjoyed at what their queen had done.
''My, I can find no words...'' Yajima trailed off, though it was obvious that he was happy.
''That was...incredible...'' Lahar trailed off, stunned.
Doranbolt, who had been made to come here by the council member, was delighted to see this for himself. The guilt had been eating away at him with what happened on Tenrou but he was delighted to see how well Fairy Tail was doing.
Erza turned slightly at the sound of her name, finding Team A and Hope all coming up to her.
''That was awesome!'' Natsu enthused.
Wendy beamed ''It was so beautiful!''
''Way to clean up!'' Gray grinned.
''You were great!'' Lucy smiled.
''Yeah, that was amazing!'' Hope added.
She chuckled ''All right, all right, let's not exaggerate here, it isn't as if we won the whole thing. It's your turn now, Hope, focus on that.''
''I will, don't worry about that.'' He returned before going to rejoin the seven contestants.
Nobarly appeared floored by the result ''D-damn...''
''Er-chan's just the strongest!'' Millianna beamed.
''It was definitely a fight to behold.'' Hibiki smiled.
Lyon chuckled ''They really do blow all expectations away...''
All of Fairy Tail was cheering for Erza as well with an overjoyed Makarov calling out ''Erza, you've done us all proud!''
''Yeah, that was spectacular!'' Rebecca cheered.
''Way to go, Erza!'' Happy added.
The redhead smiled and held up a fist, with them all returning the gesture with pride.
Mato approached the group of seven contestants then ''Okay, with this turnout, we've come up with a backup plan.'' He held up the orb device in his hand before it floated up. ''It's not quite as exciting as Pandemonium but it should get things done.''
''What's that?'' Lyon inquired.
''A Magic Power Finder, or MPF for short.''
Hibiki blinked ''Oh, I think I've heard of that. Eve mentioned something about it being used for the knights...it measures our power output, correct?''
''Bingo! Just cast a spell and the power will be displayed in numerical form. We'll use it to determine the ranks. You'll go by the order we picked out earlier.''
''Hmm...I wonder if I can work around this...'' Hibiki crossed his arms. His magic wasn't one for power, more of information and this looked like a bad match-up.
''Shall we begin?'' Mato prompted.
''Yup. If we're going by the order from before, I'm up.'' Millianna shed her cape. She put her hands together and a magic seal formed. ''Kitten Blast!'' A spiral blast slammed the orb, leaving the number 365 on display.
''And she scores 365 points!'' Chapati faltered. ''But we seem to lack a benchmark to compare this so we can't really decide a thing.''
''Nothing to worry about.'' Lahar assured. ''We Rune Knights use the MPF to train and so I can tell you, Millianna's number qualifies her to be a squad captain.''
The girl grinned ''Super strong!''
Next was Nobarly, who was very disappointed as he only earned a 124 points. Then it was Hibiki's turn, and he stepped up with the squeals of the fans becoming clear.
''This might be hard for an intelligence type like Hibiki.'' Eve noted.
''Yeah, I should've gone there.'' Ren grunted.
Ichiya spun around to face them ''Now don't be like that, have faith in your comrade.''
But there wasn't much to be said as Hibiki scored 95 points, leaving him sobbing on the ground.
''Is this what we get for believing?'' Ren huffed while Eve gave a little laugh.
''This matters not you two. Consider it a lesson for the future, even the little things matter after all.'' Ichiya returned.
''Right! Thank you for the kind words, Sensei!'' They replied in tandem.
''I wonder if he's okay...'' Hope trailed off as Hibiki walked away, his head lowered in shame and tears.
Lyon rolled his eyes ''That's called being a drama queen, Hope. I think he'll bounce back in no time.''
Obra stepped up then, merely raising his arms out before a little imp like creature tackled the MPF and fell back.
Chapati blinked twice at the score ''Wait, just four points?!''
Natsu frowned ''He's not even trying, huh?''
Gajeel's eyes narrowed, he was already aware of how Obra worked since his days of spying on Raven Tail ''Yeah, not this creep...''
''What're you doing, Obra!?'' Flre snapped.
''Quiet!'' Alexei chided. ''Did you forget? He can't reveal his magic to everyone.''
''Y-yes, sir...''
Orga stepped up and the crowd began to get excited. ''Watch and learn...'' Black lightning gathered in his hands. ''...120mm Black Lightning Cannon!'' A beam of black lightning blasted the MPF, leaving it to display the number 3825 around some smoke.
''Wow! Orga just over took everyone's scores!''
''No way!'' Natsu exclaimed.
''That's nuts!'' Bickslow cried.
Millianna was dumbfounded ''He's ten times stronger than me?!''
Even Lahar was stunned, as he had never seen a score like this before.
Orga grabbed Mato's microphone and began singing about Sabertooth being number one again, to general chagrin as he was hardly any better than the first day.
''...We can do without the singing, okay, big guy?'' Mato said.
''My turn now.'' Lyon declared, facing the MPF. ''And I shall dedicate my success to my dearest Juvia!''
Anyone who looked at the water mage then, could see her stiffen and take a step back. Yuka shook his head while Chelia looked annoyed. Gray rolled his eyes ''Here we go again...''
Laxus was similarly exasperated ''Not that I care but didn't you sort this triangle stuff between you yesterday night?''
''Juvia thought we did...'' The girl admitted awkwardly, twiddling her fingers.
''Ice Make: Titan!'' Lyon conjured a towering ice giant which took a step foward and punched the MPF with all its might, leaving it to display the number 5000.
Cheria perked up ''All right!''
Jura smiled ''That was very well done.''
''Damn, figures he'd get better...'' Gray trailed off amongst the crowd's rising cheers.
Erza nodded ''That was impressive.''
''What a round!'' Chapati exclaimed. ''Lamia Scale proves its prowess once again as Lyon jumps all the way to second place. Now we're move on to Fairy Tail Team B's Hope Dreyar Sherwind!''
''This looks like a tough act to follow.'' Laki remarked.
''Yeah, glad I'm not the one out there...'' Max admitted.
''I think it'll be fine. He's getting a good reception for one thing.'' Makarov remarked with some amusement as the crowd cheered once again.
''I see someone's getting popular.'' Lyon teased with a smirk, eliciting a sheepish smile from Hope as he prepared himself.
''Hm...well, if we can go all out...'' The boy tilted his head a bit. ''...Considering what I'm about to do, you'll want to stand back here, Mato-san.''
''Eh? Well, if you say so.'' The mascot nodded, stepping aside.
In a flash, Hope assumed his new form, leaving the observers intrigued.
''Oh! It's that angel-like form contestant Hope demonstrated on the first day. Seeing how well it turned out back then, I'm raring to see what happens now!'' Chapati admitted.
''He really can use that thing in a second, huh?'' Happy wondered.
''I told you before, right? He was just waiting for a good time back then, it wasn't a match to be fought with plain power after all.'' Endymion stated.
''Makes sense. It figures Hope would be thinking that far ahead...''
''Yeah, in retrospect, we were actually lucky in a way. He was one of the better choices to face someone like Jura.'' Lily remarked.
Mavis nodded ''Considering what you two mentioned about that mysterious light, the fact that he can use it to this extent is great...''
''Endymion, I've been meaning to ask...'' Levy started. ''...Hope told us a bunch about that mysterious light but you haven't said a word yet.''
''Well, there's not much I can say, Levy. I just can't use it.''
Needless to say, this left them surprised. Being aware of the duo's situation, they were used to both being able to share and exchange magic just like that so this was very strange.
''Wait but with your link? That doesn't make sense.'' Lisanna pointed out.
''I know, but no matter we tried, the result was the same.'' The phoenix stated.
''That's strange...'' Mavis, who was aware of said situation now, looked pensive. ''...maybe it has to do with that magic's origin.''
''That was about the conclusion Hope and I reached too. Well, either way, I don't mind. He's making the most of it and that's what matters.'' Endymion stated.
''Wow...that's the spell you were telling me about Natsu-san?'' Wendy was amazed.
''Yup, it's Hope's trump card. Watch, I bet you'll like this!''
''O exalted power from ancient times...'' Hope chanted, a gold magic seal appeared before him. ''...that which originates from the dawn of the world, descend now and shine, Illuminus Regalia!''
The magic seal moves till it was over the MPF, creating big, pulsing spheres of light which cloaked it before it glowed brightly along with the spell circle, which released light waves in synchrony with it, for a moment, those nearby were blinded.
''W-what's this?!''
Chapati's voice made the participants squint over to the MPF, staring in shock at it displayed the number 6250.
''That's amazing...'' Lahar trailed off.
''...Even more so when you know the magic, I've heard of that spell, Illuminus Regalia is one of the oldest and most powerful spells in the Sacred Trigrams.'' Yajima was smiling. ''Another testament to the White Paladin's skill, I'd say.''
''This is amazing! Once again, demonstrating great skill and power, Hope indisputably earns second place, earning his team 8 points!'' Chapati declared.
Endymion smiled to himself ''As expected.''
''He did it!'' Rebecca cheered.
''Now that's what I'm talking about,'' Gajeel smirked.
''All right!'' Natsu grinned while Wendy cheered.
Michael smiled ''He nailed it.''
''Way to go!'' Victor grinned.
''Yay, Hope!'' Happy beamed.
''...Are you serious?'' Orga muttered while the rest of his guild watched in obvious surprise.
''Wow...'' Cheria trailed off while Jura smiled.
Erza looked on with pride and happiness ''Impressive as usual.''
''How the hell can a kid do all that?!'' Nobarly demanded.
''Because what he did the first day wasn't enough for you?'' Millianna deadpanned.
''What the lady said.'' Hibiki agreed.
''You'd think they'd learn not to underestimate the kiddo now.'' Cana remarked with a grin.
''Hey, it works out for us all the more.'' Evergreen smiled.
''Well, I admit my defeat, you certainly earned this one.'' Lyon told Hope, who smiled in response, looking back at the cheering Fairy Tail.
''Hope, that was fantastic!'' Makarov cheered.
''Yeah, way to go, Hope-nii!'' Romeo smiled.
''You were great!'' Lisanna called.
Hope smiled at them before they all left the field, soon going back to the team's section. Mira smiled once she saw him and gave him a hug ''That was amazing!''
''Nice, Chibi, you blew them away there.'' Laxus remarked. Hope smiled back, noticing Gajeel giving him a thumbs up while Juvia beamed.
He laughed ''Thanks, I'm glad it worked out...''
''To think this is just the first part of day three, amazing!'' Chapati called. ''But it isn't over yet, folks, we still have the battle part to look forward to.''
''This'll be exciting.'' Yajima smiled and eyes traveled to the screens to see who will be chosen...
Well, let's stop here.
Man, my muse strikes at the most random times but this was a good way to get me back on track. This took way longer than I would've liked but things have been messy ever since I lost some of my plans for this arc. I've had some snags, like what to do with Raven Tail. I fully enjoyed seeing Laxus beat them all up and I think I know a way to implement that scene here a little differently. I wondered if I could use them more considering my story tends to focuses on the Dreyar family too and Ivan sort of just drops off the map in canon. That's not even mentioning what I've laid out before. I've worked around a bunch of them so here we are. I hope you liked the chapter.
Just to clarify, what Mavis said is basically spot on. The reason Endymion can't use that second light magic is because of its origin. All I'm going to say for now is that its a powerful, ancient magic that select few can use. Think of it as a missing part of Hope's magic that was blocked by Demon Fang's experiments. The pendant restoring it is the is part of the reason he's gotten this tough. It also relates to Hope's lost past in a way so it's really hard to go any further about this right now without giving spoilers. Of course I fully intend to explain about that particular subject in due time.
Well, thanks to those who read my work and I hope you can keep it up. Till next time!