Chapter 74 – Two Sides to Every Rivalry
So the layout is that I am hoping to get through to the end of the Naval Battle by the end of this chapter, but if it seems like too much, then I'll at least get finished with the day and night of the third day. However the case goes, I hope you all are excited for the climax that is coming to be.
To Recap:
On the night of Day 2, Nic and Erza brifly meet with Jellal over Zeref's Magic, and then the two meet up with Millianna after reuniting, though Nic let early and had Erza see the truth that Millianna and Kagura want to get revenge and kill Jellal. Meanwhile in Sabertooth, Yukino was shamed for her failure and excommunicated, which invoked the wrath of Natsu. Fortunately for everyone, Nic intervenes, along with an old acquaintance named Minerva. After the melee settled, Minerva caught up with Nic and everyone was in good terms with Yukino and Minerva. Day 3 then came, and Erza curb stomped the Pandemonium contest, making the fans love Fairy Tail again and bumping Team A up to 1st Place. Millianna and Rufus then had their battles against Quatro Puppy and Blue Pegasus, leaving Laxus to now confront Alexei of Raven Tail.
Chapter 74 – Two Sides to Every Rivalry
The crowd was roaring as Fairy Tail and Raven Tail were gonna go at it yet again, this time Raven Tail wasn't looking so pitiful as Alexei was holding the front. The armored man was silent as night, and Yajima turned towards Lahar, his mouth covered so the mic wouldn't overhear his conversation.
"Excuse me, Lahar." Yajima asked. "Did you bring any of your men with you?"
"Uh, yeah. A few as regulations require, why?" Lahar wondered.
"…keep an eye out for Raven Tail. If they try anything, let me know and I'll stop the match." Yakima whispered.
Lahar caught his stern note and nodded in understanding.
Back in the Fairy Tail stands, Makarov had Bisca dispatched as a sniper atop of the colosseum, a gun aimed for Ivan and his insidious smirk. Lisanna and the Thunder God Tribe were dispatched to another location, overlooking the members in the Raven Tail balcony. However as they were all keeping tabs for Raven Tail's nasty habits, no one noticed Vanessa looking ahead with a distasteful gaze, knowing that their aura was nowhere near the balcony, but gathered all around the battlefield…and closing in. But for now, she remained silent as the gong in the background sounded the match to begin.
Laxus began to proceed. "So, you're that mysterious member of my old man's guild huh?" He asked. "How's about taking off that mask and tell who you really a-!"
He was silenced when Alexei surprised him and struck a strong blow, making Laxus's coat fly off. Natsu, Gray, and Erza on their balcony had astonished gazes, but Nic's was unreadable as he watched.
The oddest thing that he picked up was that, in his point of view, Laxus and Alexei didn't move an inch, so why was everyone acting so shocked for nothing? His arms crossed as the audience looked more shocked as Alexei shot a blast or darkness at Laxus. Still, Nic's field of vision wasn't as what the others would've believed it to be.
'Two Laxus?' He thought as he saw one standing still while another was getting beaten down, but the field was a hazy darkness, as was one Laxus and Alexei. His glance went towards Erza, and yet she was just as shocked as the others, as though their attention was to the Laxus and Alexei actually fighting. 'Hold on…' He wasn't sure of himself as he looked to the Raven Tail balcony.
They were all as hazy as the background.
Nic had a bad feeling. He looked towards the Fairy Tail stands as everyone was yelling at Laxus, but Vanessa was still silent. From the corner of the young sibling's eyes, she saw her brother's same suspicious expression. Both looked at the other, and then Vanessa motioned her eyes down to the battlefield again.
That was all Nic had to get to understand. Now it made sense. Vanessa sensed aura, so if she felt something off, and if was centered to the arena, then it made sense that everyone was looking at a fake Laxus and Alexei fight.
'Illusion Magic. Powerful Illusion Magic.' Nic figured. 'But why am I not affected…?' His eyes widened underneath his sunglasses, and his attention was to one eye in particular. The left eye. The one that was his artificial eye, the same one Erza had. He remembered something about Porlyusica saying how it was more potent, or something about strength or immunity to Magic related to eyes, something around that. When he looked at Erza again, he could see the shock on her still, making his suspicions feel more insecure. It had to be certain that his artificial eye was stronger since it was newer and had more potent ingredients that Porlyusica guarantee strength in eyesight and among other parts.
With that in mind, he decided to remain silent and watch the real Laxus and Alexei in the middle of the battlefield, though he couldn't make out what they were saying.
Laxus looked as his illusionary copy as he got up, but was punched back to the ground. "So, care to explain what's going on here?"
"I've made this a more reserved and private party." Alexei explained. "My Illusion Magic makes it so that we can talk despite being invisible to others."
The fake Laxus was slashed by Alexei's gauntlet and struck an uppercut to boot. Master Makarov growled as he saw the predicament, but he couldn't understand. "Ivan…"
Despite everyone's protests and cheers, Vanessa and Nic were the only ones not convinced. The former felt aura in the arena still, and the signatures didn't move. The latter could see right through, but not make out what was going on. However the case may be, neither can do a thing, since them entering the ring would just throw everything out of whack.
'Whatever's going on, I have to aid however I can without gathering attention…' Nic remained silent and strategized while the brawl went on.
"I'm sure your guild will be heartbroken to see one of their mightiest fall." Alexei said.
"I'm still not following. This plan of yours isn't making sense." Laxus said. "You have a point of using an illusion?"
"I'm glad you asked." Alexei informed. "Depending on how our negotiations go, we may let you have your way."
To prove his point, the Laxus illusion suddenly began to throw punches back. He blocked the Alexei illusion from an attack and fired a roar of lightning, with many hooks and punches. Natsu and everyone began to grow smirked on their faces as they saw the tide turning in their favor, but Nic and Vanessa were still uncomfortable.
Laxus got the predicament. "Okay, so what's your deal here? What's this 'negotiation' nonsense."
Alexei held out an arm. "Depending on how our negotiations go, we can make this work out for both of us. You get your win, and we get our answer."
Laxus began to static as he took off his coat. "Sorry, but no way in hell I'm falling for that one. Your illusion means nothing, so I'll defeat you here and now!"
"Sorry." An eerie voice said within the hazy darkness. "That's not gonna happen."
Laxus kept a straight face as the remaining four Raven Tail members emerged from the darkness, all standing right behind Alexei. Laxus didn't really say anything as Alexei also reached for his mask.
"There's also, one more thing to consider…" He took off his mask, and Laxus looked away, looking unappeased. It was the real identity of Alexei, a man that Laxus was never on good terms with.
"Should've known you've been behind there…" He looked ahead. "My deadbeat Dad."
Ivan smirked. "I knew Makarov would rather die than reveal his secret, but alas you're a different story."
'Ivan…' Nic looked away at the stands, where Bisca was aiming. He realized then and there that he was but an illusion as well. 'Alright, guess it's settled.'
There was a swift silence before Nic's sunglasses glinted. "Foresight." He said. His body then expanded a force field outward. The expansion wave was noticed by Ivan and Raven Tail as it passed them. Immediately the Laxus and Alexei illusions vanished, and the crowd and spectators all saw Raven Tail on the battlefield.
"Whoa! What just happened?!" Lola screamed.
Makarov's eyes widened. "Ivan?! But I thought-?!" He turned his head towards Ivan's seat, only for him and Bisca to be dumbfounded by the vacant seat. His shock was all amongst Fairy Tail.
"He was Alexei the whole time?" Mavis wondered. "How could we not see?"
"What?!" Natsu and Gray exclaimed in unison disbelief.
"I was right." Vanessa muttered. "I knew something wasn't right. Those aura signatures were Raven Tail after all."
Ivan looked around, seeing his dark illusion gone. "What?! But how?!" He looked at Laxus and he growled. His fists clenched in anger and his teeth grit. "Grrrr! Fine! I don't need illusions!"
"Illusions?" Erza questioned, her eyes widened. "His were that powerful?" She looked to Nic, where the Foresight came from. She stared at him and looked back at the stadium.
"T-this is a violation!" Mato shouted. "Raven Tail's members are down here! And their Guild Master!"
"So we were fooled?" Lily asked.
The crowd was just confused with that was happening, but Laxus and Ivan were still in their chat.
"Tell me boy." He demanded. "Where is the Lumen Histoire?"
"Sorry, don't know what you're talking about."
Natsu tilted his head. "What is he talking about?"
"Lumen…Histoire?" Lisanna wondered.
"What is he talking about?" Max asked Macao, who was right beside him.
"Not a clue." He turned towards Makarov. "Hey Master, you got any clue?"
On the balcony, Makarov was shaking in anger, his teeth almost shattering in agitation. "Ivan, how can you-"
Mavis's eyes were wide. "How…how can he know about that?"
"Come on, boy. Surely Makarov told you." Ivan continued.
"Nope. Not a word."
"You don't realize the predicament you're in."
"Oh I do, but even if that were the case, like I'd give it away to someone like you."
"You're in a hopeless situation, boy." Ivan pointed out, gesturing to the four members behind him.
Laxus began to spark a lot of static and scoffed. "You know…" Laxus held up an arm, surprising all of the audience. "Now I see why the old man gave up on you. You're nothing but trash that just need to be put into its bin. You're an enemy of my guild, so get ready!"
"Are you hearing this folks?!" Lola shouted. "Laxus dares to challenge Raven Tail at once!"
Lahar got up. "This match is over! Raven Tail will be taken into custody!"
Yajima looked down at the scene. "Now hold on…" He asked. "I'd like to see where this goes before you take them in."
The crowd was in awe as Laxus declared the challenge.
Natsu punched a fist. "Hey! Save a couple for me to-!" He was cut off when Erza swiped an arm in front.
The redhead kept a sharp stare ahead. "No, Natsu."
"What?!" Natsu exclaimed.
"You can't be serious!" Gray shouted. "Laxus on his own against Raven Tail?! Even I know that's-!" He too was cut off by Nic.
"Be quiet." Nic said in a harsh tone. "…Laxus can handle them. Besides, this is a family affair." His eyes narrowed. "And you know better than to get involve. Stay out of this."
Ivan and Raven Tail gave off a vile dark aura. Their eyes glowing red and giving the air a vile chill. Ivan smirked maliciously. "This tournament means nothing. The only reason we entered was to our hands on the Lumen Histiore, and finally crush Fairy Tail. That's the whole reason this guild was made, and today is the day we get what we want! You're about to learn a very painful lesson boy!" With him and his chuckling, Raven Tail was provoked into a malicious chuckle, one that scared the audience, and left Makarov and Mavis holding in their anger at Ivan's leaked goal. Ivan swiped his arm. "Obra! Drain his Magic! Destroy Fairy Tail!"
Obra raised his arms, but he never had anything else to achieve as Laxus was static and raced as fast as lightning, appearing in front of Obra.
"This one, if for Wendy and Carla!" He sent a kick that was vicious and packed full of lightning, making Obra fall to the ground.
Ivan, the spectators, and the other guilds competing had shock as Laxus took down one, but then Flare and Nullpudding were high above.
"Red Hair Scorn!" Her hair lit ablaze and it stretched like crazy. The locks all shot down at Laxus, but he was in electricity and hopped away, dodging.
Nullpudding had huge needles of his own and he rained down onto Laxus, throwing punches. "Needle Blast!"
Laxus easily leaned away without looking at any blows. Each one failed to hit. "As for you…this one's for Gray!" He threw an electrified punched down onto Nullpudding, smashing him into the earth. This action again startled everyone at Laxus's raw power.
Flare's locks wrapped around Laxus's arm, still searing with blazing heat. Flare smirked. "I gotcha!"
Laxus was engulfed in electricity and he turned towards her. "You think so? Think again!" He opened his mouth, firing a blistering roar of lightning. Flare screamed in violent pain as she was engulfed. The whole stadium rumbled at the power and static filled the air. Everyone's eyes widened as their hair stood on end, and Sting's eyes were wide.
Orga of Sabertooth smirked with excitement as his black lightning crackled.
"Here!" Kurohebi appeared behind Laxus using Mimic Magic to become sand and slip past everyone.
Laxus looked behind with another scoff. "As for you…" He swiped his arm, and a wave of shuddering lightning went upwards, frying Kurohebi, and surprising the audience yet again with his one-hit KO prowess.
"Laxus?!" Gray exclaimed.
"No way! He's really that freakin powerful?!" Natsu screamed in disbelief.
"Such brute force." Erza said.
Gajeel smirked. "Keeping tabs on those clowns was worth seeing them become fried."
"Is he really that strong?" Levy shuddered.
Makarov was staring in disbelief at Laxus's raw power. "Is this his power?"
"Man, that guy's wild." Bacchus admitted.
Kagura's eyes narrowed as she crossed her arms, seeing the raw power displayed.
Ichiya posed. "Man, just a parfume fit for cheaters."
Jura had a frown but had a hidden delight. "Justice is being dealt right before us. Cheaters shall never prosper."
Minerva chuckled. "My, shocking now, is it? These Fairy Tail individuals of Nic's really are fun in their own right."
Ivan looked baffled and in shambles as his elite was just wiped out, one blow each. "They were all…defeated?!"
A thunderous footstep made him recoil in fright. Laxus stepped forward with a dark look in his eyes. "Look deadbeat. I don't know what this Lumen Histoire is, but I don't care. There's only one thing you rightfully deserve – pain!" He advanced forward slowly.
"W-w-wait! Laxus!" Ivan reasoned nervously. "I'm your father! We're family!" But that reason wasn't enough to make Laxus stop. "Laxus! You'd really hit your flesh and blood?! You'd hit family?!"
Laxus' static reflected off his eyes. "My family is with Fairy Tail, not scum like you. This biggest mistake you've made was turning on your own!"
"S-stay away! Begone!" Ivan shrieked. Out of fear, he fired a torrent if paper dolls at Laxus, but Laxus ploughed right through them all without any effort. He reeled back an electrified fist, and Ivan saw a beast before him.
"Anyone who messes with Fairy Tail…GETS NO MERCY FROM ME!" With a mighty punch, the while stadium shook, thunder roared and the audience shook in fear and awe as Ivan smashed into the wall, making a crater. He slumped to the ground with a thud, and the crowd was in gasping shock.
"I don't believe it!" Lola shouted into the mic. "Despite being alone, Laxus defeated all of Raven Tail and their Master! Laxus wins and gains 10 points!"
The crowd was left in sheer awe.
"Did that just happen?!"
"There's no way I'm messing with Fairy Tail! Those cheaters got what came to them!"
"That was crazy! Laxus is that strong?!"
Gray put his hands into his pockets. "Damn, and just when I was set for payback."
Natsu shuddered and looked peeved. "AW! NOT FAIR! I WANTED TO GET IN THERE!" He yelled.
Nic took in a sigh of relief. "Well, at least Flare won't be abused…as far as I know."
Erza turned towards him and smirked. "That was a crafty trick you pulled, Nic." She said in a chiding tone. "But you had the heart and reason to do it."
"I'd be a fried slug if I messed with him." Sliggoo shuddered.
"Such electricity…" Magnezone said.
Mavis glared down at Ivan. "How could he know?"
Makarov crossed his arms and looked down at Ivan's body as well. "I don't know, but now I think we're to be careful. If Ivan has that information and wanted it, then it's fortunate for us that no one else knows." His glare sharpened as Rune Knights began to take Raven Tail in. "It's only known to those entitled Guild Master, but if he knows, who else does?"
Laxus began turning away before Ivan spoke up. "Wait, Laxus." He said. "I admit, you have defeated me this time…" He smirked. "But be warned, some day, you shall see that Lumen Histoire is not what you thought it was…it's Fairy Tail's darkness."
Laxus's eyes widened as his father was hauled away hysterically laughing. He grunted and returned to his tunnel as the rest of Raven Tail was apprehended.
Obra was limp, as if unconscious. The knights checked to see if he was okay, they felt him and felt nothing but plush, which struck them as bizarre; in fact, the animal he had was gone.
Said animal smirked as he looked down at Fairy Tail one more time, snickering before retreating.
"Uh, due to that incident, Raven Tail is disqualified for immense violation and threat!" Mato announced. "Now with that behind us, let's say we just put that behind us and move onto the final match of the day, right pumpkins?"
The audience's cheer was a good sign and agreement, although Fairy Tail, more precisely Makarov and Mavis, were still a little shaken up with Ivan's knowledge, but they relented and watched the two competitors walk out.
"From Fairy Tail Team A, it's Wendy Marvell!" Lola started blushing as he looked at the next contestant. "Versus Chelia Blendy of Lamia Scale! Wooo!"
Lahar and Yajima both looked awkwardly at Lola as he was seemingly…off.
"Go get'em." Gray and Natsu said.
Wendy nodded. "Right!"
"I feel the love!" Chelia cheered.
"Give it your all out there." Jura said.
"Right!"
Chelia and Wendy both emerged from their tunnels. Chelia cheered and waved at the crowd happily, which left her to trip on a pebble. She fell forward, making the crowd laugh. Wendy ran ahead to see if she was alright, but then she met the same fate and fell on her face, making the crowd's laughter intensified.
Both girls got up to their knees and rubbed their foreheads. They got up and smiled.
"Hi. Let's give it our all, what do you say?" Wendy said.
Chelia nodded. "I'm with ya."
Lyon smirked. "Watch out Gray, you have no idea what Chelia can do."
"Don't underestimate Wendy." Gray retorted.
In the stands, Doranbolt looked down at Wendy, his attention on her. 'Wendy.' He thought. 'It's clear that you've grown by leaps and bounds, but still…'
Lola had hearts in his eyes as he was wiggling his hips. "This is gotta be the cutest wittle fight ever! You two have fun out there!"
Lahar sweat dropped. "Sit down."
Mavis's eyes narrowed as she looked at Chelia. She looked piqued. "This girl's Magic…"
In the city of Crocus, where it was all desolate due to everyone at the colosseum, Jellal was walking in his disguise and his eyes widened. Far away, Meredy and Ultear did the same. Their eyes widened as they felt something foreboding and heavily deadly, like they have in the past. Jellal turned towards the colosseum, worry on his face. "Did you feel that?"
Ultear nodded and responded to his Telepathy. "Yeah, it's that power again."
"I'm heading to the colosseum now!" Jellal ran as fast as he could through the streets. Remaining silent and swift as lightning. He had to hurry towards that power, no matter what. It got away in the previous years, and he shall not let it pass him again.
The gong went off, and Wendy had Magic seals right beside her. "Now! Vernier! Arms!" Winds began to gather much faster around her due to her speed and strength getting enhanced by her support spells. Chelia smiled and looked in slight suspicion as Wendy began to gather whirlwinds faster and faster, and then lashed them. "Sky Dragon's Wing Attack!" She fired the winds viciously, but much to her own disbelief, Chelia maneuvered and dodged the winds. "What?!"
Chelia took a big jumped and black winds began to surge in one of her open hands. "Sky God's Boreas!" She fired black winds at Wendy, who screeched as the whirlwind was more violent than her own. She managed to dodge the attack though and landed back on the ground.
"Wendy!" Carla screeched.
"Black winds?!" Natsu exclaimed.
Orga's eyes widened. "No way, her too."
"That's lost Magic too!" Mavis exclaimed.
Doranbolt's eyes widened. 'Impossible. A little girl, and yet she possesses God Slayer Magic?'
Natsu looked tense. "So she's a God Slayer too." He said.
"Too?" Gray asked.
"Yeah, that Grimoire Heart guy, he used something like that, only it was like black fire." He laughed awkwardly. "But nothing I couldn't handle."
"God Slayer or not, Wendy has a very tough battle ahead of her." Erza watched as Chelia emerged from Wendy's left, readying a blow.
"Sky God's Dance!" Chelia lashed her arms again, and a black cyclone swallowed up Wendy and made her airborne. The Dragon Slayer was in midair while the God Slayer below jumped up and readied an attack. "Now the fun begin-!"
"Sky Dragon's Claw!"
Wendy suddenly brought a kick of winds around and struck Chelia, making her fall to the ground with a thud. Wendy fell and she stood, albeit wobbly just like Chelia. When both girls got their feet under them, both puffed their cheeks, much to a lot of Fairy Tail's shock.
"Hang on!" Gajeel exclaimed.
"The same Magic!?" Vanessa exclaimed.
"Sky Dragon's Roar!"
"Sky God's Bellow!"
Both attacks raged in the middle, and a violent tempest raged and scattered through the whole colosseum. Many fans were literally blown away, and Lola lost his wig as a maelstrom raged and dust raced through the area, soon settling and revealing Wendy slightly hindered with shredded sleeves, while Chelia was without a single scratch.
"Lyon told me about you." Chelia said casually as her opponent panted. "I was so excited to see someone who uses Magic just like mine, and I couldn't help myself."
Wendy adjusted her footing. "I don't blame you. That's what you're supposed to do in a fight."
"Well why not have fun?"
"Fun?" Wendy was confused. "I'm not sure what you mean by 'fun', but I'm not gonna let Fairy Tail down!" She straightened up, ready as her words proclaimed.
Both girls rushed in and collided their attacks again. Black and light blue whirlwinds were blasted, swung, and a lot of blows were dealt here and there, and the crowd was way into it.
"Just look at them go!" Lola shouted, his bald head showing as his rump was wiggling with his blushing face. "Those two are really giving it their way, but wittle Chely-welly win?!"
Lahar looked disgusted at Lola. "just what's wrong with him?"
"I think he needs a restriction." Yajima figured.
Wendy found herself caught in a black whirlwind again and felt her feet losing their hold. 'I can't stop. I can't quit. Everyone worked so hard to get us to where we are now. Elfman put his trust in me, and I won't let his efforts be in vain!' She remembered the various efforts that her team had put in the games, and remembered Elfman bandaged up. Her eyes opened up and she ahold of ground again as the wind ceased. Her mind then raced back to the farewell of her former guild after Nirvana was destroyed, and the hand of comfort Erza provided. 'Fairy Tail has always been there for me…now it's time for me to return the favor!'
To everyone's shock, Wendy inhaled greatly. She took in a huge breath of air, and the wind and air all around began sucking into her. She felt her Magic Power restoring and enhancing.
"Oh, you eat air too?" Chelia asked. "Well then I guess I should stock up too!" Like Wendy, she began taking in huge quantities of air.
"Well, well." Jura said. "I never saw Chelia gorge in air during a battle. Young Wendy must be a very formidable opponent.
Wendy let out a loud cry, and a thick maelstrom began to surge around Chelia and Wendy alike. The tempest was raging and growing greatly. Chelia found herself unable to escape as a thick Magic seal was underneath Wendy.
"Alright, here it comes!" Natsu shouted, excited or what will happen.
Porlyusica was in the stands, shocked. 'Wendy learned that spell? And at such a young age.'
Lily had astonishment as well. "Wendy has this much Magic Power flowing?"
"Dragon Slayer Secret Art - Shattering Light: Sky Drill!"
The barrier turned into a massive blast of whirlwind, one full of power and energy that surged and rammed Chelia. The God Slayer screamed as the stadium was engulfed in a light blue light that escalated and strong winds raged. When it all settled, Wendy was panted and looked like she was gonna keel over while Chelia was lying on the ground.
"Chelia!" Lyon shouted.
"Yeah! That's right!" Natsu shouted.
Wendy staggered and looked exhausted. 'That used up a lot of my power, but I think…'
Mato leaned over to see if Chelia was still able. He jerked back as Chelia was starting to get up, and her body was glowing a faint light. The God Slayer sheepishly rubbed the back of her head, not noticing the shock and horror on Wendy's face.
"Oh, sorry. I guess I underestimated you." Chelia said as her glow faded, and her injuries were all gone.
"Wait, what the hell?" Natsu exclaimed.
"Her injuries, she can heal just like Nic can." Erza said.
Lyon smirked. "God Slayers can self-heal, something Wendy can't do."
Gray shook with bitterness at his rival. "So this was their trump card."
Doranbolt looked worried. 'Come on Wendy-!' He was budged behind and that made him turn around. "Hey, watch it…" His eyes widened when he saw who passed him. It was Jellal, and he couldn't hold back his surprise. 'Mystogan?'
"I'm at the colosseum now." Jellal turned towards the stadium, seeing Wendy barely able to stand. He looked at Chelia with heavy concern. 'Is she responsible for the connection with Zeref?' He maneuvered around the colosseum, bypassing curious spectators. He looked behind him, feeling a presence that seemed to lurk. Sure enough he saw Doranbolt eyeing him. 'He's from the Magic Council. That's just great.' He sarcastically thought.
"Poor girl." Erza said.
"Wendy's exhausted a lot of strength. It pains me to admit, but Wendy's at a terrible disadvantage." He gripped the balcony. "But we can't give up, since she isn't either."
Chelia looked confused as Wendy wasn't keeling over. "Hey, it's okay to give up. You're just gonna make things worse."
Wendy winced, but she relented. "No!"
"Hm?" Chelia wondered, as did others.
"I won't quit! I stand because I represent what everyone has done for me and my guild! Quitting now means throwing it all away, and I won't ever accept that! If I'm going down, I'm going down fighting! Don't you dare give me pity, come at me with everything you got!"
"Oh, Wendy." Carla said after a thoughtful silence.
Chelia gave a cheerful smirk. "If that's what you really want." She twirled around as Wendy had a fierce fire in her eyes. "I'll let you take it all in then!"
Black winds began to spiral around her arms, outlined in a purple. The spiraling winds were raised over her head, as were her arms as she had a smile. The winds thickened into what seemed to be a feathery mass of black and purple.
"Chelia, no!" Lyon shouted, fearing of what she was gonna do.
"Don't use that!" Jura yelled.
"You idiot!" Obaba shrieked. "You wanna kill her?! I'm spinning you after this!"
Wendy faced Chelia as the God Slayer brought her arms around.
"God Slayer Secret Art – Heavenly Gathering of Clouds!"
The spiraling mass traveled after Wendy, and everyone's hearts raced as the attack traveled after her. All Wendy could do in her condition was close her eyes and await for the attack to come and get her…at least that was what everyone thought. The whole spiral completely went pass her, and Chelia was shocked.
"It…missed?!" Lucy wondered.
"Wendy didn't move, and yet the attack was thrown off course." Makarov said with shock.
"Chelia's Magic can self-restore, and yet it doesn't help in stamina." Mira realized.
"But Wendy's is the opposite." Carla added. "While she can't self-heal, stamina increases."
"So then…" Happy started.
"I see." Nic said. "By increasing her opponent's power, Chelia's attack was thrown off balance. Clever."
Chelia blinked, realizing what Wendy did. She adjusted her stance. "Wow, I never saw that one coming! You really surprised me." She then watched in amazement as Wendy was still able to run ahead.
"Sky Dragon's Crushing Fang!"
The attack slashed compressed whirlwinds, and Chelia blocked with her arm. She managed to heal though, and yet that didn't stop Wendy from going all out as she went ahead to attack.
Chelia couldn't help but smile. "Let's go!"
The two girls ran towards the other, Magic embedded in their kicks as wins went wild again. Jellal, Nic, practically everyone stared with awe as Chelia and Wendy both had spirits that reached for the skies, their attacks blowing at the other, and yet they got up, ready to go again. They traded blows after blows, dancing with light feet as they tangoed with two winds storming up a feeling of adrenaline and excitement as it was recovery against stamina.
Everyone was screaming out in sheer excitement. No one sat in their seats as they gave it 110 percent of all they had. The two girls had small fists, and yet they never ceased with their fun. This was what Wendy was feeling. She realized the joy that Chelia was trying to show.
Fairy Tail and Lamia Scale alike watched the two trade and deliver punches and kicks to the stomach and face, neither side quitting as dust raged with their winds.
The bell sounded, and both girls huffed in exhaustion. The audience screamed and cheered yet again.
"And that's that folks!" Lola shouted. "The match between Wendy and Chelia…is a draw!"
"That was awesome!" Natsu smiled.
Erza nodded. "Both girls really gave it their all."
"Wendy sure is strong." Gray admitted.
Lyon crossed his arms with a proud smile. "Young Chelia and Wendy are stronger than what we thought."
"They were magnificent." Yuka said.
Jura looked at Wendy,a thoughtful look in his eyes. 'When it comes to Magic, Chelia's is far superior, and yet…' He thought back to the Oracion Seis incident awhile back, and he remembered how shy Wendy really was. She couldn't look at anyone in the eye, and yet here she was now, fire in her eyes and facing an opponent right in their own face. Jura's smile widened. 'Wendy has really grown. Well done.'
Porlyusica sat in the stands, looking at Wendy with a thoughtful gaze as she was feeling very proud of her.
Wendy fell to her knees, panting.
"Hey." Chelia asked, standing up. "Are you hurt? I'm sorry!"
Wendy turned towards her. "No, no, I'm fine. You really apologize a lot."
Both girls laughed at the irony of that statement before Chelia knelt down and began healing Wendy.
"Hey, thanks." Wendy admitted. "That was a lot of fun!"
Chelia smiled. "I had fun too!"
Both girls smiled happily at the other. When Wendy and Chelia finally stood, they both shook hands, acknowledging their blossomed friendship.
"Isn't that such a sweet thing! Friendship is born from battle!" Lola shouted. "This is too touching that I might cry! Both teams get 5 points each. Thank you for such a splendid end to Day 3 ladies!"
"Now, let's see that scoreboard, shall we?" Yakima asked.
1st Place: Fairy Tail A - 37
2nd Place: Sabertooth - 34
3rd Place: Mermaid Heel - 32
4th Place: Lamia Scale - 31
5th Place: Fairy Tail B - 30
6th Place: Blue Pegasus - 18
7th Place: Quatro Puppy - 14
X Raven Tail – Elimination
The crowd roared at the score, and they were more than impressed with Fairy Tail finally having their groove back. Natsu pumped fists. "Yes! It's about time we kick but again! We're back on top!"
Sting scoffed as he saw Natsu cheering. He and the others were never gonna hear the end of it tonight, hearing Jiemma roar of Nic's guild ascertaining their glory. His fists clenched tighter.
Mato began walking away from the arena. "I never thought Fairy Tail could do so well." He muttered. "I'll have to put some thought. Yes, a reconsideration."
Jellal blinked. 'Wait, the Magic is supposed to disappear after a fight. Was Chelia not the culprit?' He began to move with the crowd, away from all of them. His senses made him see something ahead. 'Up ahead!'
Realizing the Magic and ark energy was elsewhere, Jellal filed out with everyone else. He caught onto something and as the open area began to make room for others, he finally caught sight of two cloaked figures, side by side as they were leaving. 'There! I found them!' He broke into a run in hopes of catching up with them, but he stopped right in his tracks when a person appeared in front. It was Doranbolt, which spelled bad news as Jellal's eyes widened. 'When did he…?!'
"Who are you? Tell me." Doranbolt demanded.
Jellal felt uneasy and watched the two cloaked figures walk away, getting far out of his sight. 'No, I can't let them get away. Not while they're still here.' He looked back at Doranbolt. 'I gotta do something about him before-!'
"Doranbolt." The voice was all too familiar and Jellal glanced back, seeing Lahar and his men following behind. "What are you doing?"
'Damnit, I'm cornered.'
"I know you're not Mystogan, so who are you really?" Doranbolt demanded.
A long, bickering silence brewed around as the public was taking notice of the skirmish. Lahar was getting antsy as well, seeing Doranbolt confronting 'Mystogan'. A long silence came and went and Jellal and Doranbolt were in a standoff.
"I'll ask one more time." Dornabolt growled. "Tell me who you are!"
"…I'm sorry but I don't have time for this." Jellal said, walking pass him. "I'm in a hurry."
Doranbolt teleported to his side and put a hard hand on his shoulder. "I know Mystogan is not in Earth Land. Who are you?!"
"I assure you I am Mystogan." Jellal said. He glanced back and saw Doranbolt's hand reach for him. "What are you-?!"
"Let me see your face!"
The hood went flying off, and time seemed to have slowed down as Jellal's scarf also lowered. Doranbolt and Lahar's eyes widened in sheer shock as the hood landed on the ground.
"Uh oh." Jellal said.
"Jellal?!" Lahar exclaimed.
Another silence fell as Jellal was in the worse predicament anyone could be in. Lahar and Doranbolt both stared with shock and intensity. He could make a getaway with Meteor, but then someone spoke up through the ominous anticipation.
"Ah, I see someone revealed you, Mystogan." Yajima said, making a surprising entrance.
The three men turned towards Yajima, shock still mounting.
"Mr. Yajima?" Lahar exclaimed.
"Lahar, now you see why Mystogan is face is disclosed to the world?" Yakima questioned, much to Lahar's confusion. "Mystogan has spent his entire life dealing with the fact he is identical to Jellal. So some sympathy."
"He's…not Jellal?" Lahar questioned.
Jellal remained quiet as he looked at Yajima, his eyes telling him to play along.
"Tell me Lahar, are you aware of our counterpart world known as Edolas?" Yajima asked. "If so, then you must know that they have a duplicate, a counterpart of their own that inhabits that world."
Lahar connected the dots and looked at Jellal. "Then, that means you are Jellal's counterpart?"
"Yes." Jellal said, looking down and playing along.
As the commotion went on, Mermaid Heel passed through the area.
Beth turned towards her comrades. "That last battle was so cool."
"I'll say." Risley said.
Kagura was walking behind them, making way with her team. She noticed the commotion and time slowed down as she only needed a second to see Jellal. Her eyes widened. "Jellal…!" In that instant, her mouth was covered as sharp eyes revealed themselves. Hate and boiling rage were swirling and she nearly collapsed. She tried to hold in a gag.
"What's wrong?!" Millianna exclaimed.
"Kagura!" Arana shouted.
Kagura fell to her knees as one of her hands was covering her mouth while one was on her scabbard.
"Kagura, keep it together girl!" Beth implored
"She needs help! Fast!" Risley shouted.
"Kagura, what's wrong…?" Her gaze followed Kagura's at the scene. She picked up at what she was looking at. Jellal. Her teeth clenched. "Jellal!" She snarled. With no hesitation, she went to attack, but she was stopped when Kagura grabbed her arm. Millianna looked back at Kagura, seeing her starting to come around again.
"No." Kagura said, slowly getting to her feet. "I'm fine."
"Kagura! It's him! He's right there!" Millianna pointed out. She got silent when Kagura's face was calm and upright, and yet still full of rage.
"I said I'm fine, I'm sorry for making you all worry." Kagura apologized. "Millianna, I'm fully aware. To think Fairy Tail was harboring safety for him."
"Fairy Tail…keeping him safe?" Millianna looked down at the ground, her insides churning as she felt betrayal and anger at the same time. "Erzy…how could you…?"
Back at the scene before them, the men retreated, and Lahar turned towards 'Mystogan' as Yajima cleared up. "I apologize for my ignorance. I did not take that into account."
"Thank you for understanding my situation." Jellal said, putting his hood and then scarf back on. "I find the resemblance rather worrisome between us. Jellal can be very shrewd." He felt like holding back a twitch as he was making a bad name for himself, especially coming from his own tongue. "If I find him, I'll let you know."
With that Jellal turned away, passing Yajima. "Thank you, Mr. Yajima. I'm in your debt."
"This was a one-time chance. I won't be able to bail you out again, so you'd better make haste before your presence causes anymore trouble for Makey's guild." Yajima responded to his Telepathy.
"I will." Jellal said, walking into the ground. "My leave shall be immediately after the games."
Lahar walked up to Doranbolt. His eyes set on Jellal as he went away. "I know that was really him." Doranbolt's shock didn't faze him. "I'll let Mr. Yajima save face, but never again."
Outside the colosseum, Jellal entered sunlight and looked around. Amongst the crowd, he felt nothing. 'That trail has gone cold. It wasn't Zeref, but there were two of them. Just who are they?'
Night fell upon Crocus. And close by the park, underneath one of the bridges that acted as a gateway from the streets to the park, Laxus leaned underneath and looked like he was rendezvousing with someone. As he waited, his mind flashed back to earlier today, from which his father was revealed and he demanded the Lumen Histoire. He even noted the hostile look on Makarov's face.
He was brought out of his thoughts when Makarov appeared, giving each other a look. Both saw the serious yet mutual expressions and could tell one was curious while the other was on his guard.
"So gramps, just what was he saying?" Laxus finally spoke up. "Something about Lumen Histoire."
Makarov looked at Laxus and cascaded his glance to the ground. "Ivan, that weasel found out our greatest secret. How could he?" His hands were twitching. "To think he was after it, and dared to announce it…luckily no one gave much care or concern, so I shouldn't worry."
"He said it was Fairy Tail's darkness." Laxus reminded him.
"No." An unknown voice said. Laxus and Makarov turned towards the sound, where it revealed Mavis. "Lumen Histoire, it's actually the light of our guild."
"Remember, you mustn't tell him." Makarov reminded.
Mavis smiled. "I know. It's top-secret information reserved only for Guild Masters." She turned towards Laxus. "Sorry Laxus, I hope you can understand."
Laxus shrugged. "Hey as long as it's nothing weird, I got no reason to pry."
Makarov changed the matter. "How could Ivan know of such information?"
Mavis had an idea. "I think…that maybe the second Master, Precht, told him."
Makarov put a hand to his chin. "Yes, it could be him."
"I never thought he'd turn on us like that." Mavis grimaced. She looked to the ground, her eyes getting misty. "It's all my fault. I chose him…*sniffle*"
Laxus and Makarov cringed in horror as the ghost turned away from them, starting to cry.
"Hey, geezer, what do we do?!" Laxus asked.
"I'M NOT CRYING!" Mavis yelled, shaking up the two more. "I'm not…crying…" Her misty eyes shut again, tears falling.
"Laxus! Do something!" Makarov shouted, shaking his fists.
"Me?! What about you?! I don't know what to do!"
The two were just baffled at how to make her stop crying.
In another section of Crocus, in a placid, quiet street, two people were seen walking out in the half-moonlight. It was a rather nice night, and with Raven Tail finally caught ad held in custody, Fairy Tail could relax, for the most part that is.
"This certainly has been an eventful day." Nic said.
Erza looked over at him, walking right by his side and smiling. "Yes, it most certainly has."
"Now that Raven Tail has been caught, at least we don't have to worry about trouble brewing." Nic looked up at the dark sky. "But then there's the energy Jellal informed us. You think he sensed it?"
"I'm not sure. He must have retreated for today since Lahar was present. I'm still rather shocked he decided to show his face after what you did back then."
Nic smirked. "Well you know me, I fight the man and take no belittling."
Erza's smile increased. "True."
The two decided to get some alone time by taking another walk. It had felt like an hour, but it was really just a little bit more than that. While the others were partying and barrel-surfing, Nic and Erza decided to have quality time and enjoy the other's company.
"Why don't we settle here? It'd be nice to sit down for a bit." Nic suggested as he took a seat to a bench that was beneath a light post.
Erza smiled. She didn't refuse as she sat down on the bench as well. Her shoulder touching Nic's. Nic's face blushed a little.
"Are you okay?" Erza wondered.
"Yeah." Nic said, his blush fading to a light shade of pink. He grinned, but his gaze was to the space ahead rather than Erza. "I guess I'm still getting used to the concept of being a boyfriend."
Erza couldn't help but chuckle. It was cute to see Nic like this. It's not often that he's flustered or nervous in an affectionate manner.
"It is a weird feeling, isn't it?" Erza asked, trying to get on common ground.
"A little. I heard of the concept, but experiencing it is another thing entirely. I always was rather socially awkward." His eyes closed as the memories came flooding back to when he left home. "It's hard to say, but I never developed proper social skills. After I set out with Froakie, at first I was seeing a huge world, and I wasn't sure how to greet or interact with others, but as I traveled, I got a little better." He snickered at his own thoughts. "I guess we both came a long way."
"That's putting it mildly." Erza said. She briefly remembered her slavery past, but that remembrance didn't seem to bother her much since she felt Nic's warmth. She snuggled into him more with a softer smile, her head on his shoulder. Nic reciprocated by trying to lean his head so his cheek was touching her head. Seeing her blush meant it was the right move.
A long silenced passed before Erza spoke.
"Nic, what was that move you used? The one that stopped Ivan's Illusion Magic."
Nic didn't move an inch as he thought back to it. "Foresight." He said. "I guess you can say that it's a cancellation for Illusion Magic."
"It must be a very handy move."
"If you play your cards right, yeah." He took a short pause before properly explaining. "Foresight is a move that allows one to hit Ghost-Type Pokémon with Normal and Fighting-Type moves. It also makes them tangible since their Type is self-explanatory."
Erza sat back up and looked ahead. "Pokémon moves and Pokémon are so unique. There's always a way to counter something. Pokémon are such a mystery, and yet these Trainers that you and Vanessa have become can bring out their potential." She turned towards Nic. "And from what I've heard from Vanessa, Trainers just battle and go through standard training…but you went beyond that and you became them sort of speak. An isolated but excessive training that no one took. You and your Pokémon can jump through trees, lift boulders, climb waterfalls under heavy pressure…then there's the reflex and battles you do. Stamina, will, and durability, even your strength was just never ceasing to rise."
She turned away from a curious Nic. "I guess what I'm saying is that, your unorthodox method is what makes you so admirable. You train and go through it like a routine that can last for days, and you all love it. You'd think many would be envious of you."
Nic was getting the point and smiled. He turned away. "I understand. Normal battles and Pokémon training are one thing, but how me and my six go all physical is something one seems to fear. You can't blame them."
Erza smirked. "I call that loyalty to what you love."
"Yeah."
Another strong silence passed. It felt like another ten, maybe fifteen minutes, both sitting and remaining quiet while their shoulders touched.
"We should go back to the inn." Erza insisted. "We need to get some sleep for tomorrow."
"Yeah. We need our strength for tomorrow." Nic stood up, followed by Erza. "I think I'll step in first tomorrow, as long as everyone else agrees."
Erza grabbed his hand and the two walked away. "We'll see. By the way, we should see if a bakery is open this late. I've been meaning to have some strawberry cheesecake since I haven't had any lately. And I think we should Vanessa a lemon cake too."
Nic smirked. "Great minds think alike." He turned ahead as they walked, thinking how his sister was able to give him the right signals that everything was wrong in the arena today. "Vanessa's really grown. It makes me happy."
Erza smiled at Nic as they waltzed down the street under lamp post after lamp post.
On one of the top balconies of Crocus Gardens, Sting was leaning against the railing, gazing up at the moonlight. He seemed rather distracted, yet so focused at the same time. The moonlight was the only thing he ever saw in the sky since he hasn't seen the stars in over seven years, to which no one knew why.
Lector walked out to the balcony, aroused from his slumber. "Sting? What's the matter bud?"
Sting looked down at Lector, seeing him up. "Oh, het Lector." He looked back up at the moon. "Can't sleep. I'm pretty excited."
"How so?"
Sting smirked. "I got a feeling that I'll get to fight Natsu soon. I can't wait for when that time comes. I'm sure I can take Nic on too, no matter how scary he might look."
Lector looked pumped. "You got this!"
In the room over, Rogue was staring up at the ceiling while Frosch was sleeping soundly right next to him. He couldn't sleep as well. He remembered the terrifying display Fairy Tail showed today. Erza, then Cana, and then Laxus. Laxus and his one-shot display was what startled everyone as he was just brutal. A Second Generation Dragon Slayer had such power, but he wasn't doubting himself, but he was still unsure since he never saw the extent of Nic's power. It made him rather curious.
He decided that he should get some sleep as well, since tomorrow was told to be brutal in terms of the battles.
In one of the high-class inns, in the bathroom, in the shower, Kagura was feeling the hot water cleanse her skin, but she never seemed relaxed. She never could, not after what she saw today. Jellal still rattled her mind, and it didn't seem to settle.
Outside on the balcony, Millianna was sitting on the railing, looking up at the moon. She was just as bitter, and at the same time confused. 'Why is Erzy's guild harboring Jellal? Is Nic and Erzy even aware of this? Why are they…' She was brought out of her thoughts when Risley emerged.
"Hey, Millianna, you okay girl?" She asked. "You and Kagura have been acting all weird since earlier today. Did something happen?"
Millianna looked away with a smirk. "You can say that." She said.
Risley had a confused look as she had hands to her hips. "Well you know you can always talk to us. Being guild mates means we're always there for one another."
"I know." Millianna said. Another smirk came across her face. "…I won't worry you guys. I'll get stronger. I'll work harder. For all of our sakes."
She was gonna take revenge on Jellal, even if it meant going down the path of hatred with Kagura. She will do whatever it took, and if she had to fight Erza, then she knew she had to take that risk, just so she can get her claws on the man who ruined her childhood.
"Welcome to day four of the 7th annual Grand Magic Games folks! It's your host, Chapati Lola, followed by Mr. Yajima, and our special guest for today, Rabian of the theater group!"
"Thank you very much!" Rabian said.
"The contest today is called Naval Battle folks! Out in front is a huge bubble of water. All participants representing their team shall enter the bubble and engage in what you can consider an underwater sumo match! You'll be eliminated if you get pushed out, and thus your ranking will be based on the order you're pushed out. In summary, the last man, or woman, left in the bubble is the winner." Lola detailed.
"However there is but a small twist." Yajima added. "When there are two competitors left in the bubble, there will be a five-minute rule. If you're pushed out within those five-minutes, you won't get any points."
"Such adrenaline! Such risks in the script! Thank you!" Rabian announced with joy.
"Now, let's see who enters the sphere…" The contestants then dove in. The people entering was Chelia for Lamia Scale, Jenny, stepping in for an injured Eve, for Blue Pegasus, Risley for Mermaid Heel, Sophie from Fairy Tail Team B, and then for Quatro Puppy was Rocker, then…
"Minerva Orland, quite the pleasant welcome." Minerva announced.
The crowd went wild for Minerva.
"Can you listen to that crowd? Minerva is here, making Sabertooth consist of its five strongest members now!" Lola said. "And lastly…"
The last person entering into the Naval Battle was Nic, in his Splash Plate Form. The crowd, once again, went nuts as they recalled Nic's display on the first day.
"Go get'em, Nic!" Natsu shouted.
"We got this in the bag. Nic's got this." Gray said, expressing confidence.
Erza smiled. "We'll cheer as hard as we can for him."
"Let the Naval Battle…begin!" Lola announced, the gong going off again.
Nic took a one-arm motion and swirled it in a circle. "Whirlpool!" Immediately, a cyclone raged through the domain of the bubble, and the girls, and Rocker, all swirled around as they could hardly hold on.
Sophie pointed a finger to her forehead. "Memory-Make: Scorn of the Armored Winds!" Sophie unleashed cyclones of raging iron-like winds, similar to Gajeel's roar. The raging cyclones met Nic's Whirlpool in the middle, and the whole bubble was quaking and uneven as the inside was swirling tempests.
Rufus looked at Sophie and lowered his cap, smirking.
"She's not bad." Gajeel admitted. "Though I'm calling her a copycat for that play."
"Oh relax." Laxus shrugged off. "Her Memory-Make can make use of this. Don't underestimate the blonde."
"Go, Sophie!" Mira cheered.
"Nic's Whirlpool is starting off strong." Magnezone said.
Vanessa grinned at the contest. "Yes. Whirlpool is generally meant for restraining and isn't that strong, but in this case, it's working just perfectly for Nic."
Jenny smirked as she saw Nic with his sunglasses. "My, he's certainly the looker underwater as well." She swam away and towards an opponent. Rocker looked behind, but got a kick to the face. "Sorry, only one boy is allowed!"
Rocker fell out of the bubble and landed on his face. Quatro Puppy despaired with more revelation and shock as Rocker groaned. "This isn't wild."
"Quatro Puppy is out!" Lola announced. "Sadly, they only get 1 point. Now it's just the bikini babes against the lone wolf – Nic!"
"Hmph! Well if you ask me, he's ruining the fun." Rabian huffed.
Cana crossed her arms. "Sometimes that boy can be a killjoy." She paused as she looked at him. "But they don't realize how screwed they really are. Nic's just testing the waters."
As the participants were going at it, Nic added a trick. Chelia and Risley were duking it out, and yet all eyes went down as Nic glowed and altered. Nic's Splash Plate Form was the same, and yet the edging was a dark pink with the ring around the symbol on the back, while the rest of the coat was dark blue.
"Water/Psychic!" Nic announced.
"Oh wow, it's that new technique he can use!" Happy shouted.
"Wait, you mean Nic can use two Plates at once?" Wakaba asked.
"Which means he'll be twice as lethal." Macao said.
Sophie kept her Memory-Make active as she still went for the assault. "How about a two-for-one! Memory-Make: Mirrors of Cold Retribution!" She fired the attack, with ice mirrors firing dark beams at Nic as the iron-like cyclones raged on.
Nic's eyes widened as he let out his prowess. The Whirlpool he made suddenly expanded, almost getting twice as big, taking in the blasts. Sophie's eyes widened as her Memory-Make – in terms of both spells – were stopped as the Whirlpool looked more like a huge shield than a raging cyclone.
"He changed the property from offense to defense?" Sophie asked.
"HA!" He swung his arms, and the Whirlpool was unleashed in a massive maelstrom in conjunction with Nic using his Splash Plate manipulation over water. All the girls were caught in the supreme underwater cyclone, and waves raged like tsunamis as the girls had no chance.
Juvia's eyes widened as she sat in the stands. "He can manipulate water at such a vast level?!"
In the order, Jenny, Chelia, and Risley all fell out. Earning Blue Pegasus 2, Lamia Scale 3, and Mermaid Heel 4.
However, as the cyclone raged, Minerva smirked as she used her Magic, bending the space around so as to defend from the attack. "Not bad."
The attack raged on for another few moments until finally the swirling settled, revealing Sophie just on the edge of the sphere. She panted as she barely held on. "That was…close…!"
Her eyes widened, and she suddenly found herself outside of the bubble. She blinked once, then twice, and fell down. "Aaah!" She plopped onto her face, groaning and grunting as she was gonna feel that in the morning.
"And lastly, Sophie has somehow left the ring, getting Fairy Tail B 6 points!" Lola announced. "…wait! Now we see!"
Minerva kept her smirk as the spatial energy dissipated from her hands.
"Wait, that's her Magic?!" Lucy exclaimed.
"So the chick, got teleported out, huh? Now that's freaky." Gajeel said, leaning against the railing.
Minerva chuckled at Nic as he clenched his fists. "Finally we get to square off. I was wondering which power was better: Yours, or mine?"
Sting leaned against the balcony. "Milady, she's so mischievous. She could've just ended it from the start, but she'd rather conserve her energy for Nic."
"I hardly know what goes on in her head." Orga said. "She could've won this thing by now, so why is she holding back until now?"
"If I recall, she was always the rebel. Her act of defiance is even detailed before us." Rufus said. "Remember well of her history with Nic Pularis."
Sting clenched his fists. "That Nic. He's made our strongest one of the more softer. I'm gonna get him when the time comes."
Rogue looked away, disinterested.
"You ready?" Nic asked.
"As I'll ever be." Minerva said.
"The five-minutes are underway!" Lola announced. "Let this exhilarating match commence!"
The crowd went wild as Nic and Minerva glared off, sunglasses against green eyes. Minerva extended her arm at Nic, not wasting a second as her Territory Magic was unleashed. Nic's body went all second-nature and acrobatically swam and evaded Minerva's spatial explosions that erupted within the sphere. He swam like he was born in the water, and when a spatial blast was unleashed upon him, the range wider than before, he swiped his arm, and manipulated the water to divert the spatial energy around him.
Minerva's eyes narrowed as Nic was unhindered. "Not bad! HRAH!" She reached out, and from where Nic was a massive spatial blast imploded, sending waves throughout the sphere. The crowd gaped as Minerva's blast rattled the entire sphere.
"Whoa! The heck is she doing?!" Natsu exclaimed.
"She's giving it her all…I think." Gray said. "I know she's acquainted with Nic and all, but don't you think she's a bit extreme?"
"Perhaps." Erza pointed out, watching the explosion disperse. "But we'll see how far the two will go."
Minerva smirked, but then she was kicked in the back of the head. The hard water shoe pressed down and she descended. Looking back, upside down, she found Nic there, still unharmed.
Sting's eyes widened. "He escaped her Territory by teleporting?! How?!"
In the Sabertooth stands, Bellona eyed Nic wearily. "Nic Pularis…"
"Hydro Pump!" Nic made a mirror of water in front, and a great volume of water blasted forth. Minerva straightened out and smirked again. Her hands had spatial energy again, and then Nic and Minerva traded places, with Nic emerging on the receiving end.
"She traded places?!" Natsu exclaimed.
Kagura's eyes glared at Minerva's Magic.
Nic showed a calm demeanor as he reached out with one hand, and the water manipulation through his form made the Hydro Pump disperse all around him, dispersing as the streams diverted in random directions. Using his arms, he conducted the various streams and sent them at Minerva. In retaliation, the Territory Mage, made more spatial energy and the streams all missed her as the space around her distorted.
"What an impressive turnaround folks! Nic and Minerva are actually on toe to toe with another!" Lola announced. "The strongest in Sabertooth and her Territory cannot keep Nic's teleporting suppressed! Just how will anyone respond?"
"Time is halfway up within the five-minute range." Yajima reminded.
Minerva aimed her Territory Magic, but no matter how she saw it, Nic's Teleport seemed to cancel out her spatial teleportation as well. "Hrah!" Minerva used her Magic and Nic was transported in front, where she attempted a kick, but rather Nic ended up on her side, using his Teleport as he was traveling through her Territory to end up elsewhere. Minerva blocked a kick from Nic and both participants backed away, grins on their faces.
"Your Territory's improved, Minerva." Nic said. "I'm impressed."
"Your powers are a sight to behold as well. No one can escape my Territory like you can. Seems we're both even since I can alter space and you can manipulate the water and teleport."
"You have a point…" Nic's eyes narrowed beneath his sunglasses. "But I'm more than that. Psychic!"
Minerva found herself outlined in light blue energy. She was forced backwards by a great force and went near the edge. She grunted as she zoomed back, but her eyes opened a little to see Nic again. Her hands glowed green again and switched places with Nic.
Nic felt himself lose the momentum in the brawl, but he twisted and his stomach was facing the edge.
"Nic, look out!" Natsu shouted.
Minerva held her arm down at Nic. "We agreed to not hold back, so let's end this!"
"Aqua Jet!"
Nic was cloaked in a mass of water and shot like a rocket up, barely escaping the spatial explosion that would've pushed him out. Minerva saw how fast Nic was traveling in Aqua Jet as he arched himself along the edge. "What?!" She watched him fly overhead and around, little to no water resistance applied. Minerva saw him swimming beneath, and she shoved her arms down, applying a strong explosion that encompassed all of the lower half of the sphere. Spouts of water erupted all underneath, making the ground beneath drenched.
However, she was caught shocked as Nic appeared in front, evading via Teleport again. With a swift punch, he struck Minerva and sent her spiraling through the water. The Territory Mage hurried to regain her balance and spatial orbs encompassed her hands yet again.
"You're a slippery one." She said. "Let's see how you handle an anchor!"
Nic's left ankle was within its own orb of spatial energy. Before he could teleport, Minerva swiped her arm, and Nic was dragged along through the water in a long arc. The heavy weight of water passing him was managing to slow him down, and he used the momentum yet again.
"Aqua Jet!" Again he was covered in thick clear water and used the swinging momentum and shot around like a rocket. His body swerved into an askew arc, spiraling some and Minerva blocked with her Magic, but she was pushed back from the force.
"That Minerva chick, she's keeping Nic on his feet!" Romeo exclaimed.
"Her Territory is extremely lethal. Anything around her can be encompassed in space." Carla analyzed, watching the two go neck and neck again. Minerva traded places with Nic again, but Nic's reflexes kept him from accepting critical blows as he dealt some back. "She's obviously learnt some close combat skills too."
With a Territory infused hand, she punched forward, yet Nic swiped and a current dragged the punch away. "Brine!" With the close range, he doused Minerva with a jet of saltwater. Minerva grunted as she was shoved back, feeling a sharp sting from the few bruises she took that was grazed by the sodium within the jet. She escaped through a spatial orb, reappearing behind Nic for an axe kick with no signs of wearing down that easily.
Nic caught on, using a forearm to block without looking. He flipped backwards underwater and his knee almost collided with her face, yet she barely escaped by sweeping herself to the side. If it wasn't for the water resistance, that would've dealt a blow that could've caused a concussion.
Minerva grinned as Nic turned towards her, returning the expression. This was the thrill of a friendly competition. Two allies giving them a run for their money. It wasn't like Nic to be on even grounds with anyone, but Minerva's Magic in particular really made things even.
"It looks like the five-minute interval is up!" Lola announced. "Both competitors are seriously still going! Can they even stop?!"
"I don't know. Nic seems to have more durability and stamina it seems." Yajima explained. "But Minerva's Magic can elude herself and apply damage. This is very much even."
"Equal footing on spotlight?! Thank you very much!" Rabian announced.
Minerva had both arms spread out. "I say we end this! I need to get some points for my guild!" Her Territory began to spiral around her.
Nic had both arms spread out as well, both arms spread out. "I couldn't agree more! My guild shall retain its place yet!"
All at once, spatial explosions went off like fireworks, while cyclones and melee water streams rampaged all around. The crowd was wide-eyed as they could see the entire bubble of water erupting and swirling like some small-world apocalyptic hurricane. Fairy Tail and Sabertooth looked in anticipation as they couldn't tell what was happening inside as raging explosions and great rapids blocked Minerva and Nic's vision.
"Hrrraaaah!"
Both ley out yells, and the bubble erupted madly. Geysers exploded and explosions raged. All the girls, and Rocker, cleared way as the stability wasn't supported for the great force Nic was using to use the entire sphere to attack Minerva. The bursting sphere fell to the earth, where a massive splash and explosion raged. The audience covered up as water sprayed onto them.
As it lightly drizzled, Lola, Yajima, and Rabian were gaping at the site down below. Nic and Minerva were both standing, yet their breaths weren't labored in the slightest, meaning they exhausted some energy, but not enough to tire themselves out too bad. Nic did seem to hold up better though.
"I…I cannot believe what had just happened folks! Minerva and Nic's attacks on the other had made the entire sphere collapse on itself! What a massive turn of events!"
Mato crossed his arms. "Alright you two, that's it!"
Nic and Minerva both relaxed and seemed to sigh a little. Minerva had a few more bruises than Nic, but other than that, she was fine. Her training over the years have paid off. The crowd cheered for both teams proudly for one heck of a show.
Mato looked to the crowd. "In this situation for the Naval Battle, the committee never considered a draw, but in this case, both teams shall tie for 1st! Both Fairy Tail A and Sabertooth earn 10 points for their teams!"
The crowd seemed appeased as they cheered in the battle portrayed. Fairy Tail seemed curious while Sabertooth was looking all the while smug. They can live with this. They knew now that they had to work much harder if to defeat Nic Pularis and Fairy Tail and put them back in their place.
Nic turned away. "Minerva…you've improved. Great display."
Minerva turned away as well, hand to hip and a grin on her face. "You put me through my paces. Reflexes and close combat is where you have the advantage, as I learned from before. It was quite pleasant to square off like this."
"Likewise." Nic stated walking away with a solid tone. "But if we meet in the ring again, don't expect me to be holding any limits of my power."
Minerva chuckled. "Indulge me, but you'd best save that for those who you would really wanna watch out for. Sabertooth's Twin Dragons won't hesitate after this."
"I will." He walked back to his tunnel, and Minerva did as well.
Minerva stepped inside her tunnel, where the audience seemed rather excited some as they saw Sabertooth and Fairy Tail at it.
"I want more!"
"Yeah! I wanna see Sabertooth and Fairy Tail at it again!"
"Sabertooth VS Fairy Tail!" One screamed. The phrase went around the colosseum, as many were dying to see another heated confrontation like that. It was so heart-pounding, and a lot of people knew of Minerva's nature as demonstrated by her display over the past few years, so they expected the rowdier members to have a piece of the action.
Rufus and Orga both snickered at her display. "The Master ain't gonna like how you're not so dominant." The latter informed.
"Minerva knows better than to treat someone like that." Rogue said, looking away. "After all, she can get away with it. Her father and herself never agree anyways."
Sting punched his palm. "Fine, then I guess we'll have to show Fairy Tail why we rampage and will keep our top place! Those punks are gonna go down. Natsu. Nic."
Back up in the stands, Bellona smirked and chuckled lowly. 'It would appear Milady is above showing brutal dominance like Sabertooth always works. It looks like I'm gonna have to get personal with her and Fairy Tail alike.'
In the locker room, Nic met up with his team. They all gathered around him and were seen with great smiles on their faces. Natsu seemed to be impressed. "Damn man, you sure know durability!" He beamed.
Gray crossed his arms, grinning. "That Minerva chick's got something to prove alright."
Nic nodded. "Yeah, but if you ask me, I do believe it was more of herself than anyone."
"I understand. Since she dislikes her father running the guild, she's really doing this as a favor for Yukino." Erza explained. "That must be the considered case."
Nic smiled at Erza. "Her Territory has improved. She's a formidable foe." He sounded genuine, and he had a feeling that she was holding back some, but so was he; but he knew it was out of respect, though it was rather ironic when they agreed not to hold back.
Erza nodded and smiled back. "She is very strong indeed. The strongest in Sabertooth is I remember right." She turned towards everyone. "We'll have to be sharp if we ever come across her. Her Magic is most terrifying."
The door to their locker room opened up, and Makarov was proceeded by Fairy Tail Team B, much to everyone's surprise.
"Master." Erza said in surprise.
"Gramps?" Gray asked.
"Uh, wait." Wendy said. "Why is Team B here? Is there something wrong?"
The ten participants present looked at one another in confusion while the small Master in the middle cleared his throat. "Listen well kids, I am proud of your display in the games thus far, and because of all of our efforts, we are near victory, but Sabertooth won't hand their crown to us without a fight." He paused, making a small silence fall. "However, the matter cannot be changed. I have an important announcement for you all…"
I've cut it off there, hope it was enough to take in! I got the Naval Battle squeezed in just like I said, so that means next chapter shall be the Double Battles only. Comment what you liked or what changes I've made that appealed.
Please Favorite, Follow, & Review this story and/or chapter if you guys love the action, battles, and the great events that shall transpire!
Next Time: Dragon Slayers VS Pokémon