Chapter 22 - Fight or Flight

Ah ha! The team leader spotted the red metallic rock among the cave, indicating it as Roslite ore. Nice! Three minutes in and they already found some!

"Alright everyone, let's get mining!" Benjin distributed pickaxes to everyone except Erza, who had a fancy white one. Where does she get these tools?

*Ping!*

*Ping!*

A couple minutes passed, and Benjin managed to pick up multiple rocks from the pocket they found. Hmm barely even my weight, so likely not enough to meet the minimum requirements. In the corner of his vision, he saw Natsu walk towards another vein of ore, before swinging his pickaxe, bouncing off with a loud clang.

For some reason, I have a bad feeling about this. True to that, Benjin's heartbeat began racing, and a feeling of dread washed over him. I'm sure… it's fine.

Just maybe twenty more minutes, and they would be able to leave with multiple times of the 'required' amount. Just twenty more minutes. Please, let nothing go wrong.

"Fire Dragon's Roar!" What. WHAT?! Benjin's attention focused back towards the pink-haired boy, seeing his eyes widening in fear, all while a giant spider-like creature retreated in pain. Crap it's them!

"Screech!" Okay, it's just a single one, we can deal with it!

Benjin withdrew his staff, focusing his magic into the tip. "Solar Wave!" A decent-sized beam raced across the Enderpod, piercing it straight through from one side to the other, causing it to fall over dead… with a giant hole in its chest. Breathing in relief, the blonde angrily stomped towards the dragon slayer.

"What in god's name were you thinking?! You could have attracted the whole damned nest!"

Natsu backed away, sweating bullets. "I'm sorry! It randomly popped up in my face and I panicked and before I knew I already-"

"SCREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEECH" Dozens upon dozens of insect cries resounded throughout the entire cave, followed by the sound of rampaging movements.

Benjin turned towards the others, all of them having confusion and fear plastered on their faces. All of them looked like they had the same thoughts as himself right now.

Fuck.

"Everyone calm down!" Benjin's scream went on deaf ears. We can't panic… not now!

Okay, dozens possibly hundreds of giant insects were now zoning in on their position. They were probably more than a couple hundred meters deep into the cave, and the path was so unbalanced and weird that one of them could fall and that would throw a massive wrench straight into the escape plan. What could he do? The Enderpods would probably catch up before they could all make it out, so they no doubt would have to fight some off. Okay, I got an idea of what everyone is capable of… except Mirajane, but I'll make do!

"Mirajane, QUICK!" The white-haired girl snapped towards the blonde, her hands and feet trembling from the incoming onslaught, "What can you do with your magic?!" She widened her eyes, before managing a glare.

"What kind of question is that?! They're com-"

"CAN YOU FIRE A LASER, YES OR FUCKING NO?!"

"…YES!" Okay! That's all he needed to hear.

Light orbs! A magic circle came into existence, with it coming five glowing spheres, each the size of Benjin's head. This will light the way… and hopefully slow them down.

"Everyone stick together and run, NOW!" Benjin sprinted towards the entrance, with Erza and Mirajane right behind, followed by Gray and Natsu. "Use only ranged attacks to fend them off if you have to, they are far deadlier up close!" The blonde took one more glance backwards, and what he saw made the colour drain from his face. Damn it… Cana, you stupid girl! Instantly, Benjin darted towards the horde of insects closing in onto their position.

The brunette's legs were glued to the rocky floor, tears began falling from her eyes as she stared into the swarm of monsters.

"Chains!" Benjin pulled the younger girl away just in time, the spot where she stood being smashed by a scorpion-like creature. This wasn't supposed to go like this! Pulling the girl in, the blonde threw her over his shoulders and ran as fast as his legs could carry him. "Don't stop moving!" The team leader noticed one of the Enderpods shoot towards him, shit, fliers! Benjin gritted his teeth, his arms tightening the hold on Cana. I can't lose my focus, or else I might trip!

The light mage looked towards where his team was, narrowing his eyes at the lack of holds. "Gray! Make something for me to grapple to!" The black-haired boy looked back, his eyes widening in fear from the seemingly uncountable number of enemies. Shaking his head frantically, Gray managed to find enough courage to clasp his hands in a familiar stance.

"Ice Make: Pillar!" Benjin smiled as the ice mage's spell grew from the ground, a pillar of ice easily thrice his height emerging. Chains! The light mage shot out his spell, wrapping it around the ice structure, accelerating towards the other kids - who had slowed down their pace for their straggling friends. I just need to make it back to them, then I can ward them off!

"AUGGH!" Benjin screamed in pain as he felt something cut deep into his leg. Fuck! Tightening his hold further, he pulled Cana and himself faster, giving one last glance behind him. Flying Enderpods with giant blades… damn it THOSE ones are supposed to be RARE!

Landing with a dull thud, the blonde instantly threw the frozen brunette towards Erza, "Catch!" Lucky for him, the redhead reacted more than quick enough, all while running at the same time. Now… ALL of these things can fuck, right, off. A familiar rippling portal emerged from his side, and with it, the staff of Solarin.

"All of you, KEEP RUNNING!" Benjin slid to a stop, turning against the horde of monster that were moments away from his position.

"We're not leaving you behind!" A warm smile creeped onto his tense visage, damn it guys, now is NOT the time!

"We're all in this togeth-"

"NOW!" A burst of magical pressure halted all protests from the younger kids, all of them refusing to run despite his order. You stubborn little cunts!

He had no time to argue with them, the last thing Benjin wanted was to accidentally blind his team from his own spell. I just hope they follow my next command. Reaching into his deeper reserves, Benjin felt the familiar power that he used against his first life a death battle flow through his body. This is what I've trained for! The magic of divinity flowed into his arms, up through his staff, and into the very tip, giving the sun circle a brilliant golden glow.

"CLOSE YOUR FRIGGIN' EYES, NOW!" The blonde had no time to check if anyone listened, he had to cast his spell, now.

"Light God's Flash!" An all-encompassing glow completely lit up the dim cave. Hundreds of shrieks came from all directions as the Enderpods were blinded into a frenzy.

As the glow died down, Benjin noticed most if not all of their pursuers scurried away, only a few remaining despite unable to see. That should do for our escape…

Without another look, the blonde leader ran towards the entrance of the cave, with the rest of his doing the same.

That was fucking close… The blonde began panting with his hands on his knees, before looking up to see his team doing the same, with Gray and Natsu lying on the ground.

Benjin glared at the pink-haired slayer, one that went unnoticed. Natsu really needs to learn discipline, actual thought processes, patience, and really just about everything. Sighing, the blonde stood up.

"Is everyone okay?" As he said that, he felt the intense flow of liquid down his thighs and calf. Fuck… did it hit an artery? The blonde tensed as the severity of the wound hit him. I gotta stop the bleeding!

It was Erza who recovered first. "Yes, I am fine." Followed by Mirajane.

"I'm good." Benjin looked at the other three, who were still having difficult catching their breath, causing him to sigh. Yep, they're fine.

The blonde took off his robe, revealing a yellow sweater and white shorts underneath. Lifting up his pants, Benjin saw the rather deep cut running down the back of his thigh, causing him to scoff. Shit, I may have to do 'that.' He scowled, tightening his fists. There was no way he was doing that again! But… he might have to, he couldn't sew it up himself because of where it was, and he'd probably bleed out before it clots.

The others stared at the wound, concern on their face. "That's pretty bad…" Gray widened his eyes at the huge cut, guilt in his eyes.

"T-there's…" Cana trembled in shock, her hands covering her mouth as her eyes flashed in and out of consciousness. "So much blood…"

Benjin turned towards the others, who had similar feelings. I'll deal with that later… I got to do this first. Focusing on the task at hand, Benjin braced himself for what he was about to do next. Okay, no big deal, think happy thoughts. Closing his eyes, the blonde focused magic to his right hand, an intense golden glow coming off from it.

HAPPY THOUGHTS!

"GRRRRAAAAAGGGGGGHHHHH!" For what seemed to be an eternity, Benjin felt an intense searing pain comparable to what he went through against the Balrog. Tears threatened to escape his eyes as every muscle in his body contracted from the sensation. FUCK! Moments after, Benjin collapsed on the ground in a cold sweat.

"Benjin!" The injured blonde heard the others call his name as they ran to his aid.

"Is… it still… bleeding?" His strength left him, leaving him barely able to speak through laboured breaths. Vision from his eyes blurred from the shock, all while his leg still burned. While the others were wide-eyed at what Benjin just did, no one was affected more than a certain brunette, who stood completely frozen at the events that had just transpired.

"Why…" The white-haired girl began, her hands trembling with frustration. "Why did you do something like that!" Benjin weakly turned towards Mirajane, shocked at her sudden outburst. "I could have sewn it; you didn't have to-"

"Enough Mirajane," Erza interrupted angrily, earning her a glare from the flustered girl, "what's done is done, I'm sure he had his reasons for doin-"

*Whack* "Shut up! I'm sick of your goddamned attitude!" The redhead was knocked back from a fist that found its way to her face, shocking everyone, including Cana, to the point she was snapped from her stupor. "He shouldn't have…" The white-haired girl tightened her fists, all while her knuckles bled from the impact. "Why did he- Gah!"

Erza retaliated before Mirajane had a chance to continue, knocking the air right out of the other girl. I gotta stop this! The blonde tried to get up, only to feel his leg stutter from the pain. Augh, Fuck! The two older girls began throwing more and more punches at each other, all while the other three stood and watched, frozen in shock.

"That's enough!" Benjin's shout fell on deaf ears, causing him to scowl. This can't go on! The blonde's eyes widened as he saw magic circles appear in front of the two girls. Damn it, WHY do they have to be so STUPID?!

"Light Rods!" Dozens of familiar constructs materialized from his own magic circle, freezing both girls in place, halting their spells. Benjin grimaced. Still so much resistance, they're strong! "Chains!" Another spell came from the blonde, reinforcing the rods, finally stopping both girls in place. They're… STILL struggling!

"Let… me go!" Mirajane's aura spiked as parts of her body began transforming, making Benjin's eyes go wide. Is she… using takeover? Damn it, he had no choice! He hated doing this, but he had to stop them, now!

"Requip!" Benjin's chains began straining as Erza switched her armour, an aura easily rivalling the white-haired girl's surrounding her form. I won't let them fight, not right now! Morale was breaking, if they kept fighting, then they might as well give up!

Alright, they asked for this!

Benjin closed his eyes, his own aura going towards new heights. "Cana, Gray, Natsu." A golden glow enveloped the blonde, frightening the three. "Get some distance," he didn't hear them leave, "Now." Instantly, the three snapped out of their frozen state, and ran for the clearing.

As soon as they left, Benjin pulled the two girls towards him, slamming them on the rocky terrain.

"You two… last chance, stop this right now!" All the blonde received were two defiant glares, both of the girls continuing to struggle, before trying to get to their feet. Fine. Benjin closed his eyes, focusing on the afternoon sun, the reflections all around, and pulled its power toward him. His own aura continued to increase, holding the girls even tighter.

"That's…" Benjin's aura reached its max, both staring back with widened eyes, still intent on struggling. "Enough!" With one last push, the blonde's magic pushed Mirajane and Erza to the ground. They're not hurt… that's good. Within that short interval, he had spent a good deal of his magic just stopping the two from fighting. Benjin still believed that they could finish the mission, but now… it'll be more on his team.

An intense silence echoed throughout the whole valley, the three kids hiding behind rocks finally peaked out, wondering if whatever was happening was over.

Benjin sighed, hopefully for the last time today, before releasing his spells on the two girls. They're so much tougher than they look. The blonde smiled in relief as the two, somehow, was able to get up without much trouble. It seems they don't intend on fighting anymore though.

"Are you two finished?" Benjin pinched the bridge of his nose, before giving a stern look at the two, both turning away, neither wanting to face him.

"…Yeah."

"I guess."

That could have gone much, much worse. The light mage turned towards the rock where the others were. "Alright guys, you can come back now!" It would be another minute before the team regrouped, all the members still rather shocked from the recent events. I don't blame them… this is probably their first time dealing with some like this. Benjin looked around his team, noticing the guilt rolling off of them in waves. God they're so stupid… but damn, I can't help but feel a bit proud.

"Guys," everyone turned their attention to their team leader, "this…" he pointed back to his wound, "was not any of your faults!" None of them seemed to get the message as most if not all looked away in silence. How many times have I sighed today?

"Listen," he took a serious tone, regaining the eyes of the others. "This is an A-Class job, do you know what that means?" No one answered. "It means there is always a risk; sometimes great, sometimes small." The blonde gave a stern look to each of kids, before relaxing. "…Bottom line is, don't blame yourself, shit happens." Thankfully, the others seemed to nod, although he could tell they probably still feel bad about it. Benjin sighed, again. Whatever, they'll get over it.

His words still seemed to be ignored as he looked around. Natsu was gritting his teeth while his breaths laboured, Gray simply stood unmoving with an unreadable expression, Cana was still stuck in a shocked stupor, Mirajane was turned away from the rest of the group, while Erza had her gaze focused on the floor, her bangs shadowing her eyes.

"You said earlier we didn't grab enough ore, right?" Benjin furrowed his brows at Erza "…I'm going back in." He now widened his eyes, surprised at her statement.

"Me too." Mirajane agreed with the redhead, surprisingly.

I thought they would have been… more reluctant. It wasn't as if he wanted them to all chicken out and want to go home, but after what just happened, he would have expected far more hesitation. Then again, Erza didn't seem like the type to give up so easily.

Benjin sighed. "Just wait, we'll go in together after." The other looked at him with widened eyes, mouths agape at his words.

"But… you're hurt!" the leader looked at the white-haired girl, concern in her eyes.

The blonde turned towards the others, who looked as if they were having similar thoughts. I can't let them go in by themselves. He looked back down on his wound, moving his leg back and forth to test its strength. Benjin scoffed at his findings. Argh… I probably won't be able to use it properly for at least one or two days. Due to that, it might be best if all of them waited before going in, especially after discussing a proper plan. One that's not run in and hope for the best…

Benjin frowned, seeing the redhead already walking back towards the cave. "Erza, don't go in by yourself!" She is far too stubborn for her own good… Maybe if Jellal was here, she would have turned back the moment he even moved a finger. Heh, that idiot is actually useful for something. Focusing on the matter at hand, the blonde became increasingly more frustrated as the knight mage refused his commands… even more so when he saw both Mirajane and Natsu follow her in.

"Get back here! All of-" Benjin stopped, seeing Gray get up as well. Well at least Cana is here. The blonde turned towards the brunette who was hugging her knees in the fetal position, unwilling to move. To his absolute shock, the brown-haired girl shakenly stood up, joining the others, who had already entered. WHAT?! He took notice of the card mage's fear and reluctance. What is causing her to push herself so much?

The blonde tried to stop them again, only to see their forms disappear into the darkness.

"…FUCK!" I should have chained them! But if he did, how would he even begin to convince them to stay? Benjin growled in frustration. Regardless, he had to go into the cave, manhandle everyone out before they all die from straight up STUPIDITY.

At least, that was his thought process until he began to hear… explosions.

What is going on now… Benjin narrowed his eyes, his mouth agape at the sheer idiocy that had just entered the cave.

*BOOM* The blonde pressed his palms into his temples, his eyes going bloodshot as veins bulged from the neck up. WHY do they have to be SO FUCKING STUBBORN?! Not even realizing it, Benjin had began slamming his fists over and over into the ground, cracking it in multiple places.

Various flashes of light began emitting from the cave, before a cacophony of combat sounds assaulted his ears. Suddenly, silence. Benjin widened his eyes at the indication. NO!

*BOOOOOM* "AUGGGH!" The screams of his team grew louder as all five flew out in one final explosion, shooting straight towards the blonde. Oh thank god! They began flying closer. Should… I catch them? Frowning, Benjin took a single step to the side, winds from the flying bodies brushing his face.

*Crash*

Benjin walked up to his fallen team, scowling. Despite this, I'm thankful. The blonde looked at the five kids wheezing on the ground, they were scratched, bruised, and even had some blood on them. Seems like they're fine. He smiled, before his soft visage evaporated, being replaced by righteous fury.

"ALL OF YOU!" The downed mages all looked at their livid leader, expressions of fear, nervousness, and guilt on their face, "What in the FUCK did you think you were doing?!" Chains! The blonde pulled the five off the ground, facing him directly. "You could have gotten yourselves killed!" All of them turned away sheepishly, unwilling to face the angry blonde. "The five of you can't keep disobeying my orders! If you are on your own mission, do whatever the fuck you like! But right now, I am-"

*Rumble… Rumble*

What?! Benjin, as well as his team, turned their gaze towards the cave, seeing piles of rocks fall from the top of the mountain. Shit! Benjin scowled, gritting his teeth, all while dropping his team on the ground. Did all that fighting weaken the cave? Damn! That means if they wait, the cave would probably be so filled with debris that all the ore would be impossible to find!

Benjin stared as his team with furrowed brows, who anxiously waited for his next words "Listen everyone," the blonde took another gander at the cave. It seems that the rocks have stabled for no-

*Rumble…* The leader's thoughts was interrupted by the familiar sounds of falling debris. Tch!

"From the looks of it, it won't be long until a full cave-in," he turned back towards the five, all focused on him, while taking quick glances towards the mountain. "Erza," he addressed the redhead, who stared back, "you were right when you said we didn't have enough ore." Benjin could see some of the kids biting their lower lip, while others tightened their fists. "We have to make a decision now."

The blonde now stood firm despite his leg, his glance darting from eye to eye. "If we want to complete the mission, and make it out alive…" he paused, "we all have to fight together, as a team." Benjin put the emphasis on team, making some of the others look down in guilt. Sighing again, Benjin slammed his staff on the ground, before his resolve hardened his frame. "So, I will ask this once," all eyes were upon him again.

"Fight? Or flight?"

The question hung in the air for a few seconds as the five younger kids fiddled, unsure if they wanted to continue. I wouldn't blame them, they probably finally figured out what it means to go inside that cave.

To him, Benjin was simply glancing around, curious on the five's decision. To the kids however, his seemingly light-hearted gaze hit them like a hawk's stare, adding to the ever-increasing pressure of the mission. His team looked at each other, before nodding, each one finding their resolve. The blonde's eyes darted towards the brunette, who was so tense, it was if she fought a raging battle on the inside. Benjin raised a brow. I'm surprised… would have thought her to be hiding behind a rock or something right now.

"We'll fight!" Erza and Mirajane replied at the same time, before widening their eyes in anger, shooting each other a glare. Okay no! Benjin quickly got between the two, pushing each of them further apart by their shoulders. The light mage groaned, before looking at the still hesitant Cana. At least SHE behaves.

He took at gander at Natsu and Gray, who met his eyes with the same resolve in their gaze. Looks like they're fighting too. Finally, the oldest walked towards Cana, putting a hand on her shoulder, surprising her.

"…You alright?"

The card mage's gaze was still captured on the ground, her fists tightening more and more as time went on. "I… I" Her body seemed to tremble just to force the next words out. "I'm… fighting!" Benjin narrowed his eyes, while the others looked at her in concern.

"Cana." The brunette looked up, showing Benjin the fear that was obvious to anyone that looked at her face. "You obviously don't want to go in, why do you force yourself?" His question seemed to catch the younger girl off guard; her eyes widened, glistening all the while.

"Because… I" She grinded her teeth, her whole body tensed from frustration. "If I give up now…" A single tear fell from her bloodshot eyes, making Benjin frown. Why? "I won't be able to face… him." Him? Could she mean… The blonde's thoughts trailed off as an image of an auburn-haired man filled his mind.

What should he do? Cana was obviously not well enough to fight, but he wasn't sure what would happen if he made her stay. Could I even convince her? What's to stop her from running in after them? Sighing, the blonde took one last look at the trembling brunette before making his decision.

"Hey…" The girl met Benjin's eyes again, wiping her tears with a sleeve. "I doubt I can make you stay out, but if you are set on coming…" Benjin gave a serious stare, one that bore in the brunette's own, startling her, "you'll have to pull your own weight, understand?"

Drying the rest of her tears, Cana found her resolve, nodding resolutely. Benjin nodded back, before looking back at his team once more. I have a good idea about what everyone is capable of… all we need now is a plan of attack.

All six mages of Fairy Tail stood in front of the entrance; the leader giving one more look of assurance at his team before entering.

"Everyone know what to do?" Thankfully, he was given back looks of confidence and strength, even from the brunette, who had seemed close to giving up just minutes ago. Benjin smiled. Glad she got over whatever she had.

"I am ready."

"The Enderpods will meet the end of my blade."

"I won't back down anymore!"

"I'M ALL FIRED UP!" Benjin gave a silent laugh at that.

"I'm good!"

Alright that's everyone. Benjin's heart began pumping, doubts seeping into his mind. What if he leads his team to their dea- NO. He will not think like that. Nothing short of success will suffice. Everyone had their roles to play, just like himself.

"Ready up!" Benjin withdrew his staff from his storage, with everyone else doing their own things to become combat ready. With one last confidence smell, Benjin declared. "We're going in!" Operation grab-the-ore-and-get-out… commence!

The six charged through the cave, Benjin's thoughts focusing on the mission, as well as the single card on his back. Thank you… Cana! Because of his injury, he wouldn't have been able to run as he did; thankfully, the brunette had a spell that could lighten his body, allowing him to keep up with everyone else. She won't be able to use her stronger combos while it's active… so Natsu, you're our guy!

Just as he predicted, a small group of lesser Enderpods charged them in a tight-knit formation. Benjin smiled.

"Now!" The pink-haired dragon slayer moved in front of the group to face their assailants, with Cana readying one of her tarot cards.

"Fire Dragon's Roar!"

"King of Swords: Gale Card!"

As soon as Natsu's flames left his mouth, Cana's card flew into the fire, quickly expanding the volume to engulf the entirety of the first wave while avoiding the rocky walls.

"Screeeeeecccchhh!" A cacophony of insect screams filled the air, the charred bodies of the attacking Enderpods falling onto the ground below, dead. Yes!

All of the mages continued on, running deeper and deeper into the cave. It's not far until where we found the last vein. The blonde looked at Erza, who had begun changing her armour. A slight glow engulfed the redhead, and when it died down, she appeared in her heaven's wheel armour. The light mage smirked. No one would be able to mine faster than Erza without damaging the cave further!

Benjin looked at the darkness of cave, where the only part lit up is the area just around them. The Enderpods that retreated deep inside from my spell are probably coming out again. That meant, the first ones to come after the 'entrance guards' prior… are the fliers!

"Light Make: Orbs!" Four orbs appeared from a magic circle, darting towards the skies around them, illuminating the area. There they are! About six winged Enderpods approached them from various angles, each closing in with massive blades made of carapace.

This time, it was Mirajane and Gray that stepped up; a dark-purple and light-blue magic circle appearing respectively. If I'm right, then the fliers won't be able to make fast turns in mid-air!

"Evil Spark!"

"Ice-Make: Lance!"

Timing and Precision. That's what was needed as a thin purple beam fired in tandem with a spike of ice, both striking the wings of their respective targets, exploding and forcing two of the Enderpods towards the ground. Benjin took a quick glance at the white-haired girl's arm, seeing the same demon arm that had plagued her those years ago, bringing a proud smile to his face.

Snapping back to the fight, Benjin charged up his own spell. Now, it's my turn!

"Chains!" Twelve chains shot out at the falling Enderpods, grabbing all of their limbs before dragging them in range. Grapple and burn! Benjin smirked victoriously as Natsu and Cana used their combination attack once again to kill off their targets. Looking up, Benjin saw the other four Enderpods stop their charge, hesitant to try again due to the other's demise.

*Clang* *Ping*

The sounds of metal hitting against rock filled his ears; Benjin's turned to see Erza controlling dozens of pickaxes with her telekinesis, easily mining out the whole vein by herself in record time. That's my cue! Benjin grappled himself towards the wall, quickly putting every bit of ore that came off into his storage before the rest of his team caught up.

The plan had worked so far, but this was only the beginning. The entrance guards were defeated because they were basically just that, guards. Fliers came right after because they were the fastest, which means in any minute, the main force will come. We won't be able to fight all of them, and I won't be able to use my flash spell without being completely being weakened to the point I become a burden… maybe Erza would be able to store all the ore? Nevermind that, stick to the plan!

"Alright! Next vein!" Benjin used his enhanced vision to figure out their next target, grabbing all the ore Erza mined as his team nodded. The blonde jumped down a cliff while lighting where the next vein is, landing with a roll as his team quickly followed. Alright, that should already be more than the minimum, we should be able to grab a few more veins before we have to leave.

"Erza go!" The redhead nodded at Benjin, using her telekinesis to fly towards the vein, once again making short work of all the ore. Benjin smiled at just how surprisingly well his plan was working. Suddenly, a feeling of dread turned his smile into a frown. Something is going to go wrong, something ALWAYS does.

Looking around, Benjin noticed the fliers that had originally charged them hover in place, before suddenly swooping down in great speeds towards Mirajane, to her shock. SHIT!

"Holy Barrier!" A golden translucent wall blocked the Enderpods' advance; the instant after, Benjin pulled the white-haired girl away from harm with a single chain. Why did they suddenly attack? He really had thought they would stay back after the first two got downed so easily. Benjin widened his eyes in realization. Could they have been… playing us? No. Benjin shook his head. Enderpods aren't that smart… something must have made them behave abnormally. And I'd rather not find out what.

Benjin used another chain to grapple towards one of the fliers, catching their attention with a small flash. "Knock em' down, now!" Everyone except Erza nodded in confirmation, before aiming at their distracted targets. The main force should have been here now… where are they?

The light mage had thought once the faster fliers had come, then all the other Enderpods would have arrived in less than a minute… but still not here. Something is wrong. From his side, Benjin heard the remaining fliers being defeated by his team, all while a foreboding feeling was felt in his core. Something is terribly wrong.

*Rumble… The grounds shook as debris fell from the ceiling, causing Benjin to reflectively dart towards his team.

"Whoah!" Gray began jumping around, trying to find his balance among all the shaking.

Natsu looked up while stopping his victory dance. "What's happening?"

Shit! I completely forgot that this could have happened when we were inside! "Everyone! Huddle together, NOW!" Everyone was looking around in confusion, not expecting the sudden order. Benjin gritted his teeth while running into the middle of his team. Damn, how could he have missed such an important detail! Fuck, this could have gotten everyone killed! "Pentagonal Prism!" The familiar house-like barrier erupted around him, keeping everyone safe from the rocks above… wait. Benjin's heart skipped a beat when he realized a certain redhead wasn't present.

"Erza!" The blonde frantically searched for her aura amidst the falling rocks, only to sigh in relief when he saw a green magic circle repelling everything that fell on it. Adamantine armour… Benjin smiled as his heart calmed. So that's what it's capable of, huh? Sacrificing all offensive capabilities and mobility for the greatest defense.

As the onslaught stopped, Benjin dropped his barrier, before feeling the drain of his magic, forcing him to one knee. Goddamn! His magic was running too low, three of four more spells he would probably be completely out.

"Benjin, are you alright?" The blonde turned towards the voice, seeing the concerned face of Mirajane. He smiled in assurance, standing up before making his way towards Erza and the ore she mined.

As Benjin put the mass amounts of Roslite in his storage, he looked around the cave, which had its topography changed from the falling rocks. I can't afford something like that happening again, no one else has the same armour Erza has. The blonde debated if he should make the call to leave, they had enough, any more would just be greedy and put his team in unnecessary risk.

*Rumble Rumble… Once again, the earth they stood on shook, to Benjin's confusion. Why is nothing falling? Wait, this feeling… it was different than before. What was a deep rumble seemed more like… vibrations.

"What? Again?!" Natsu looked up with hand on his forehead; the others doing similar things, expecting falling debris.

Benjin's blood ran cold as it dawned upon him. They're coming… from BEHIND?! He was sure now. Something had to be controlling the Enderpods; there was no way they could have pulled a flanking maneuver otherwise. Damn it! They were stuck! The team leader felt his jaw clenching from the force of his teeth, before he opened his mouth as wide as he could and screamed with great fervour laced with desperation.

"EVERYONE BACK TOWARDS THE ENTRANCE, NOW!"

The sheer volume of his command broke the other five out of their confused stupors, all of them following Benjin towards the entrance in a frantic bid to escape. Damn! I can't even just flash them away like last time now, more could be hiding, just waiting to ambush us when I'm out! There was no simple solution, he hadn't predicted this. But I should have… Fuck, Jellal had always been better than him at planning.

The blonde glanced at the other five, who were all running from various distances behind him. I don't care how; I'm going to get all of us out alive! Despite his fear, he smiled at the oncoming danger, the first of the attacking Enderpods finally coming into view.

"Group up and don't stop moving!" Benjin gripped his staff until his knuckles turned white, "Focus on the ones directly blocking the path! Make sure they don't surround us!" The wave of dozens, possibly hundreds were moments away from making contact. I only got maybe three to four spells left before someone will have to carry me… This might not have been part of the plan, so he'll make one up right now!

Gray's cast speed is slower than the others… "Gray, create walls to block the smaller ones from getting through!" Erza's heaven's wheel armour will be the greatest strength here… "Erza, aim to stun, use your telekinesis and go for the eyes!" Cana can't use her combinations, so she'll have to go for stunning as well! "Cana, use your flash cards! Strike the eyes of any that gets too close!" Mirajane has the range and power, plus a short cast time… "Mirajane, if the fliers attack us from the sky or if one of them gets through the others, shoot them down!" Natsu's fire is the most destructive against them, he'll have to break through! "Natsu, attack the ones in front with wide-ranged spells, leave the other sides to us!"

Benjin didn't wait to see if his team had confirmed, he would have to place his fully trust in them. Now… we need a gap!

"Natsu, Cana! Give them the biggest roar you can muster!" The pink-haired dragon slayer managed a smile through gritted teeth, before taking a breath that expanded his chest to an abnormal size.

"Fire Dragon's ROAR!" A plume of fire dwarfing the previous roar's Benjin has seen by multiple times flew right at the charging Enderpods, who did not show any sign of stopping despite the oncoming danger.

"Gale Card!" Cana threw her card in for the combination attack, expanding Natsu's already great infernal, burning a hole through the ranks of charging insects.

Yes!

Benjin ran into the gap created by the blast, the others following closely behind. None of us are dying today! As the six sprinted towards the entrance, the Enderpods began closing in from all directions, their initial opening quickly being filled. Natsu, come on… despite your absolute idiocy, I believe in you!

"Fire Dragon's Wing Attack!" A wave of flames struck the two hulking insects as they approached, engulfing them and surrounding Enderpods in flames, before dropping dead. Nice!

Benjin glanced behind him, seeing his team focused and fighting together. God, if we make it out alive… I think I'll scold them only a little bit. Dozens of spells were being casted within seconds, everyone was able to keep their speed despite being attacked omnidirectionally.

Suddenly, the Enderpods moved in far more aggressively, the already numerous horde tripling in density. Damn it, what is it now? The frenzied insects began truly testing the limits of each and every one of them. Natsu was straining just to create a path for them, while everyone else was trying their very hardest just to not get struck down. Benjin looked at the light that penetrated the cave from a short distance. Damn it, we're so close! At this rate, they would get overwhelmed before they made it… Benjin tensed, a feeling of hopelessness washing over him. Is this… how it ends?

The sounds of his team, no - his friends struggling became more and more apparent. They're never-ending… Benjin and the others were basically back to back now, doing everything they can to make sure they don't fall prey to their enemies.

"Damn it! This is not how I imagined my first mission!" Mirajane growled, straining her newfound magic to its absolute limits just to prevent her early demise.

"I'm not dying here! I still have to find Igneel!" Benjin felt the heat as Natsu continuously strained his power to the maximum, all to keep the Enderpods at bay.

"Ice Devil's Rage!" Ice Devil? Benjin noticed a considerable amount of the black and purple insectoids became frozen in pink ice. Tch! I can ask later; we have to get out first!

"I refuse to let this cave become my grave!" Erza pushed out nearly thirty swords of all shapes and sizes, before sending them out in a circle formation, taking down a dozen of their opponents, only for another dozen to take their place.

"I don't want to be eaten by giant insects!" Cana frantically threw cards of varying effects, only to have the same level of success as the others.

That was it. There was nothing more they could do. Dead. He failed all of them. Stupid! If I had more magic! He didn't have enough in him to cast any of his god slayer spells now. If even he had a little bit more, he could have used the flash spell again… I really failed.

Benjin suddenly found his resolve in the seemingly despairing battle. Even if I fucking die, I'll make my final stand!

"Light Make…" A massive aura expelled from the blonde, temporarily halting the Enderpods from the sheer brightness exerted from his form. "Ethereal Guardian!" The familiar translucent knight formed, with Benjin floating to its head. Fuck! I can already feel the magic drain! Perhaps he had ten seconds, perhaps less, but he would make damn make use of all of that time!

With no hesitation, he scooped up his entire team, to their shock, and began sprinting towards the entrance. The blonde could feel dozens of bodies being ran over by his spell. Hundreds of Enderpods constantly slashing at him, hoping to break through.

*Crack!* A large fissure appeared on the chest plate that adorned his spell, all while he kept his charge. Almost there! Benjin didn't know how much further there was now. All he could think of was run. And run he did. Holes and cracks covered the entirety of his spell. Despite that, he didn't stop.

The familiar sensation of liquid was felt all over his body. The others… PLEASE be alright!

*Boom!* The sound of breaking rock filled the air as the blonde bathed in the light of the sun. We're out…

We're finally out…

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Chapter 22 Done! Next Chapter: Mission Complete!

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