"I am so excited!" Mira squealed, her hands clasped in front of her and her eyes shining as she watched some of the men begin to set up the makeshift stage. The day of the competition had finally arrived and everyone was busy getting ready. Her younger sister stood behind her, struggling to hold back her laughter. Mira got way too excited about these things.
"Aren't you going to get dressed up?" Lisanna suggested, eyeing the large costume bag Mira had dragged along. Despite hours of begging and even using her special puppy eyes, Mira had refused to even give a hint as to what her costume was.
"I suppose I should," Mira sighed, turning to the changing rooms," Just make sure everything is set up right!"
"Don't worry!" Lisanna called out," It's going to perfect!"
…
Levy gulped as she clutched her costume bag tightly to her chest. She was standing in front of the door. Originally, she'd planned to use the gym's changing room but she'd received a text earlier from Mira, saying that they'd each be paired up and would share a studio. That way, no one saw someone else's costume. Levy had been fine with that until she saw who she'd been partnered up with.
Gajeel.
Sure, they were dating, but Levy was not ready to strip down to her undies in front of him. The thought of it made her face burn but she bit her lip and looked at the door. On it was a piece of paper saying "Gajeel and Levy" in thick black marker. Taking a deep breath, she knocked. There was no response so she pushed open the door. The room was empty.
After sighing with relief, Levy realised she didn't have long until Gajeel showed up. She quickly put her bag on the floor and started to strip, before quickly grabbing the first piece of clothing. A white button down blouse.
But luck was not on her side. Her nerves made buttoning up the shirt impossible and then her nightmare came true.
Knock.
"Oi, Levy? I'm coming in," a gruff voice said.
"Wait!" Levy squeaked but she was too late.
...
Gajeel's eyes nearly dropped out of his head as the door swung open.
Levy was cowering in the centre of the room, her eyes widened and her cheeks flushed. But Gajeel barely noticed that. It was what she was wearing or more importantly what she wasn't wearing that caught his attention.
Her blouse was unbuttoned and she was clutching it together, in a feeble attempt to cover her bra. But she, unknowingly, left her red panties in plain view for him.
If someone had asked Gajeel before if he was an ass or boob guy, he'd chuckle and say both. But now…
Yep, definitely an ass guy.
"Close the door!" Levy hissed. Gajeel snapped out of his trance and stepped into the room, slamming the door behind him. No way was he letting anyone see his girl like this.
"Turn around!" Levy snapped, scowling at him. Sadly, Gajeel looked at her longingly before sighing and turning around.
"I don't know why you're so embarrassed, shrimp," Gajeel grumbled as he heard her moving about behind him. It was taking all his will not to jump her.
"Just stay still," Levy exclaimed as she finished buttoning up her shirt. She quickly pulled up the red skirt before taking a deep breath," Okay, I'm good now."
Gajeel turned to see Levy, whose face was just as red as her skirt. She looked so innocent in her school girl uniform but there was something there that made her seem wild. Levy then pulled out a massive trench coat.
"What's that for?"
"I'm going out to the front, so my costume stays a surprise. Let me know when your ready."
"What, you don't want to stay for the show?" Gajeel smirked as he began to take off his shirt, revealing his rippling muscles.
"I.. I..," Levy stammered, before rushing out the door. Once outside, she covered her eyes and sank to the floor.
Today was going to be a long day.
...
Soon, people began to trickle in and the rows of seats were quickly filled up. The makeshift stage had been set up perfectly with even some special lighting. Soon, someone flicked the gym's lights off, leaving the gym pitch black. The crowd began to whisper, realising that the show was just about to start. Backstage was basically just a curtained off area where all the contestants stood in line, ready to walk on.
Suddenly the lights on the stage turned on, revealing Mira and Freed, who looked incredible. They wore what appeared to be costumes for some kind of french masquerade ball. Mira had on a dark pink dress covered in cream lace and tiny roses. The dress was low cut, showing off her ample cleavage and it was tight around her waist, thanks to the lace up back. Her hair was in a bun, a few curls hanging around her masked face.
Freed wore a matching dark pink coat over a cream shirt with dark pink breeches. Despite it being a feminine colour, he looked like a gentleman. His own hair was in a complex ponytail, with a similar mask.
"Welcome to the first Fairy Tail Costume Contest!" Mira exclaimed, causing the crowd to roar in excitement. Despite retiring, Mira was still popular amongst both men and women alike for her wrestling and modeling career.
"We have quite a show for you today," Freed chuckled," There are two seperate events taking place today. Firstly, the single entry contest."
"Allow us to introduce your judges," Mira continued, as a light illuminated a table on the floor.
"Firstly, Master Makarov,"
Makorav jumped up on his chair to wave at the crowd.
"I'm looking forward to seeing what these brats have done. I wish everyone the best of luck!"
"Next we have little Miss Wendy Marvell!"
Wendy gave the crowd a sweet smile and a shy wave.
"I'm really happy and excited to see everyone's amazing costumes. I hope everyone does well!"
"And finally, we have Mest Gryder!"
"I hope to be impressed by our contestants creativity."
"Now, let's introduce our first contestant," Freed began," Miss Cana Alberona!"
The crowd cheered as suddenly purple smoke appeared in the middle of the stage. When it cleared, Cana was revealed. She was wearing a crop top piece that was made of wispy purple fabric and glittered in the spotlight. She looked like a character out of Arabian Nights. Her bottom half was covered by pantaloons of the same color. Her hair was pulled into an intricate braid with jewels covering her neck. Her smirk was covered yet still visible behind a piece of purple silk pulled across her lower face.
"Ooh, how exotic!" Mira commented," Let's hear what the judges think."
"It's so pretty!" Wendy smiled, clasping her hands in excitement.
"Well, hopefully she's giving out some wishes," Makorav snickered, pervy thoughts filling his mind.
"Master!" Mira scolded.
"Tee hee!"
"How about you, Mest?" Freed interrupted," what do you think?"
"She's got the goods," Mest grinned," but can she deliver?"
Cana suddenly smirked and began to move her hips in a rather sensual manner, leaving many of the men (including Laxus who was watching from backstage) hot and bothered.
A nod from Mira let Cana know that her time was up and after one last wink, she sashayed off stage.
"And that was Miss Cana Alberona!"
The audience let out a great round of applause.
"Now, our next contestant may be a beauty but beware the blade. It's Miss Erza Scarlet!"
Erza walked out, her heavy armour clunking as the audience gasped in delight.
She was wearing a samurai costume, with real armour. But it wasn't unflattering. Rather it was very appealing. It had been designed to fit her snugly and show off her cleavage, whilst being as realistic as possible. her hair was tied up in a simple ponytail.
"I wouldn't expect anything less from Erza!" Mira chuckled as Erza pulled out her swords, striking some poses before a nervous gym member brought up a melon. It was tossed into the air and sliced into perfect pieces within seconds.
"Yay!" Mest cheered," Free fruit!"
"It's so cool!" Wendy cheered, before muttering to herself," but I'm not sure how I feel about someone bringing a weapon in."
"Very impressive!" Makorav exclaimed, giving Erza a thumbs up.
"Wow!" Freed murmured, but he was unheard with all the clapping.
"That was wonderful!" Mira squealed.
"Next is Mister Laxus Dreyar."
Laxus walked out and smirked, as he heard all the girl's squeals of delight. He was dressed as a demon, dark horns and all. His black shirt was left unbuttoned, revealing his toned abs.
"Ah, a fine display by Laxus," Freed exclaimed, proud of his best friend's efforts," Wendy? Are you alright?"
Wendy was bright red, her mouth agape as she tried to form words. But the shock of a half naked man was too great and she simply sat there frozen.
"Well, you've certainly impressed someone," Mira giggled.
"A little less creative than the other entries so far, but still good," Mest said bluntly. Laxus's brow furrowed.
"I have to agree, grandson," Makorav nodded," but I'm sure many of the ladies in the audience will disagree with me."
The screams from the crowd made the answer clear.
"Next is Mister Natsu Dragneel,"
Natsu came out. He wore nothing except a pair of black shorts. His skin however was impressive. His dad had helped paint dragon scales all over his body, making him appear to be some dragon-human hybrid. Even Lucy was a little nervous as she watched him. Would she really win their bet?
"Oh wow!" Wendy exclaimed, a grin spreading across her face," I love dragons!"
"The artwork is certainly spectacular,' Master Makorav mumbled to himself.
"It's fitting since Dragneel is driven from the word "dragon"," Mest announced.
"Well, that was certainly impressive," Freed commented as Natsu walked off, leaving the crowd in hysterics.
"Our final contestant is Miss Lucy Heartfilia,"
Lucy took a deep breath as she stepped onto the stage, walking slowly as she came to the center. Everyone was frozen. It was like a spell had been cast over the audience, leaving them silent.
Lucy was an angel.
Her hair was pulled back into a bun, revealing her glittering face. She'd even put in golden contacts to give her a more divine appearance. On her body was a tight, white leotard, covered in crystals and feathers. At the back of the leotard, Lucy had attached white chiffon to create a layer behind her. On her back was the piece de la resistance.
A pair of white feathery wings, covered in golden dust.
"Oh my," Mira whispered, unable to say much else. She, much like everyone else, was spellbound.
"It's incredible," Freed muttered. He hadn't been expecting this.
"She's … so beautiful," Wendy gasped, her eyes pricking slightly.
"A vision of beauty indeed," Mest nodded.
"My little Lucy," Makorav sniveled, wiping his eyes.
"And that was our final contestant," Mira exclaimed, as Lucy walked off, careful not to get her wings caught in the curtains," We will be having a short intermission now before the couple's costume contest."
…
After a break, the competition was starting up again. Mira and Freed stood on opposite sides of the stage, mics in hand and grins on their faces as the audience retook their seats.
"Welcome back, folks!" Mira exclaimed, pausing at the crowd's roar.
"We will now be moving on to the couple's costume contest,' Freed said," So, Mira, take it away!"
"Our first entry is Miss Evergreen and Mister Elfman."
Elfman walked out first, clad in very tight green tights and a matching tunic. On his head was a small green hat, with a red feather sticking out of it. His foot was still bandaged up, but it didn't manage to ruin the costume.
"Oh my," Mira giggled, hoping Lisanna was taking pictures of her brother's… unusual outfit.
"But where is Evergreen?" Freed asked, furrowing his brow as he looked around.
Suddenly, Evergreen ran onto the stage. She wore a short green dress and had her hair in a bun. The small wings on her back flapped as she ran at Elfman. Suddenly she jumped at Elfman, her arms extended.
Mira gave a little squeal and covered her eyes, wondering if Elfman would be alright with his injury. But when she lowered her hand, she saw Elfman holding Ever in the air. Elfman had a massive grin on his face whilst Evergreen had a small smile as she looked down at him, before facing the audience.
"Looking at those costumes, I believe they are Tinker Belle and Peter Pan," Freed chuckled.
"Wonderful!"
"What do the judges think?" Mira asked.
"It's a little boring," Mest said, receiving a glare from Evergreen," But I liked the jump at the end."
"I think they look really cute!" Wendy insisted.
"Well, it certainly an unusual duo," Makorav chuckled," but I wish them happiness!"
The couple received a well deserved round of applause as they bowed before walking off, hand in hand.
"Our next couple is Mister Gajeel and Miss Levy!"
Levy was a little nervous as she held Gajeel's hand, but a reassuring squeeze gave her the strength to walk out onto the stage. Levy's outfit made her seem sweet and innocent, like a typical good school girl whilst Gajeel seemed like the total bad boy, ready to corrupt her.
"Oh! I believe it's a twist on Little Red Riding Hood!" Mira giggled," Love the ears Gajeel!"
Gajeel grinned, revealing his normally sharp teeth, and even did a little pose, curling his hands and baring his teeth at Levy. Levy responded with a fearful expression, before hugging him. This small action caused the audience to sigh at the sweetness.
"They're so cute!" Mira exclaimed.
"I like how they did a different take on the story," Makorav grinned.
"It makes sense since Levy is a bookworm," Mest chuckled.
"And since Gajeel is a big meanie," Wendy grumbled, still holding a grudge over the incident in the clinic.
"Ooh, I don't think one of our judges is too happy with you, Gajeel," Freed smiled.
"Ach, whatever," Gajeel retorted as he walked off, his arm around Levy.
"Next up is our final contestants, Gray Fullbuster and Juvia Locksar!"
Gray stepped into the light, carrying Juvia in his arms. Gray was dressed in a white button down that was left open and some black breeches with boots. His normally wild hair was smoothed back. In his arms was a blue haired mermaid.
Juvia's hair was left loose, but curled with a crown of pearls and starfish adorning her. Her seashell bra was made of real seashells (though goodness knows where she found a pair big enough). Her tail was a work of art, fading from purple to blue. Each scale was sewn on carefully and it was well worth it as they shimmered under the spotlight.
"Just look at that detail!"
"Her tail is so pretty!" Wendy cooed, her eyes shining.
"It must have taken a lot of hard work to create such a detailed costume," Mest said.
"I only have one question," Makorav smirked, causing everyone to go silent," Juvia, would you trade your tail for legs to be with him?"
There was a pause.
"Of course I would," Juvia answered sweetly, her eyes never leaving Gray's. Gray blushed slightly but a small smile was visible on his face.
"Awww! What a great way to finish!" Mira smiled as Gray carried the mermaid off stage.
"We now invite you to chat amongst yourself whilst the judges make their final decisions."
Makorav, Wendy and Mest huddled together, nodding and making little notes whilst the audience gushed about the wonderful show. Soon, Mira received a thumbs up from Makorav, letting her know that they had the results.
After a few minutes, all the contestants from both competitions were called out onto the stage.
"We have the results," Mira sang as she waved the envelope. The crowd roared.
"As a thank you for everyone's hard work, all those who don't place first in both competitions will receive free drink coupons for the Fairy Tail Bar," Freed said, causing those on stage to let out a cheer.
"Alright, for the single contest, in last place we have Laxus Dreyar."
"Whatever," Laxus huffed, as he walked up to Makorav who was now on the stage and received his coupon.
"In fourth place, Miss Erza Scarlet,"
"Though it is not first place, I have had fun participating," Erza smiled as Makorav handed her the coupons.
"In third place, Ms. Cana Alberona,"
"Hic! Ya hear that Laxus! Third! I beat ya!"
"Who gave her alcohol?" Laxus groaned, ready to call it a day. The last thing he needed was a drunk Cana rubbing in her victory.
"Thanks, Makorav!" Cana giggled, before staggering back to her spot in the line. Laxus, who was standing next to her, wrapped his arms around her waist to prevent her from falling over.
"In second place, Natsu Dragneel."
Natsu's grin fell, as Lucy's only widened. Sighing, he walked up and grabbed his coupons.
"Which means that first place for the single entry contest goes to Ms. Lucy Heartfillia!"
Lucy could hardly believe her luck. Hah! Now Natsu would be making her lunches for a month!
"For coming in first place, Lucy will receive a gift card of her choice, so just let me know what shop later!" Mira exclaimed.
"Well done, Lucy!" Makorav shouted, trying to be heard over the crowd's cheers and applause.
"Now for the couple's contest results," Freed said, the audience sitting back down.
"In third place we have Ms. Evergreen and Mr Elfman!" Mira cheered," Good job, baby bro!"
To Freed's surprise, Ever was still smiling. Normally, she'd be upset about losing but instead she was laughing at something Elfman had said as they went up to receive their coupons. Maybe there was something there.
"In second place is Mr. Gajeel and Miss Levy!
Before Levy could take a step, Gajeel swooped her up into his arms and held her above his head. The crowd began to cheer loudly and laughing at the spectacle.
"Put me down!" Levy shouted, but secretly, she was trying to stop herself from laughing. Gajeel shrugged and slung her over his shoulder, grabbing the tickets before heading back to their spot.
"In first place is Ms. Juvia and Mr. Gray."
"Eh?" Gray exclaimed.
"Oh, darling!" Juvia gasped, still in his arms," We won!"
"And as the winners of the couple's contest, you get to pick a spa trip to one of three locations." Makarov announced," Now, I insist all of you take a bow, because I was blown away by everyone's creativity and hard work."
Everyone bowed, including Freed and MIra at Makorav's insistence.
"I'd like to thank our judges as well," Mira cheered.
The three judges did an awkward wave and bow to the audience.
"And that was Fairy Tail's first Costume Contest!" Mira yelled as the audience gave them a final round of thunderous applause.
