(Edited 08/03/24)
(Edited 14/03/24)
(Edited 20/03/24)
I do not own Fairy Tail Hiro Mashima does.
The Grand Magic Games Commence
***POTD***
Three months had come and gone, and the annual Grand Magic Games were only a day away, as many members of the Guild began to trickle in through the front doors of the Guild Hall.
Group by group they entered, with Makarov waiting until most had arrived, moving to quell the cacophony that had began to form from so many friends not having seen each other for a fair amount of time.
"Alright everyone, lets all settle down! Now, I know it's been a long three months, but you all have done me proud by going out there and working hard," Makarov began, as he gazed out amongst the gathered members of Fairy Tail. "Tomorrow marks the beginning of the Grand Magic Games, which means today, we must select the members who will be competing on our Guild's behalf!"
"Hey gramps, are you sure we should start selecting people now? Natsu and Wendy aren't back yet," Gray shouted from up the back, eliciting a gentle sigh from the old man.
"We all know Natsu likes to be fashionably late, and we've got places to be. So, those two can be filled in on the way to Crocus, should they arrive after we go over everything," Makarov replied neutrally. "Now then, I know all of you trained really hard for this, and I've had Mira read over all the rules while she was away. So, I'll now hand this next portion over to her so that she can explain everything."
There was some murmuring amidst the crowd, as Mira stepped, a stern look from her silencing everyone present.
"Alright everybody, I've read the rule book back to front, and the rules here state that we can enter a five man team into the games. After much thinking, I've come up with a team that will both make our Guild proud, and show Fiore that we're number one!"
The guild began to cheer as Mira gave them a moment to work the excitement out of their system, before calling for silence once again.
"Alright everyone! Here are the people I've chosen for Team Fairy Tail," Mira continued cheerfully, as she pulled out a sheet of paper from her pocket. "Starting off, we have the Team Captain, Erza Scarlett!"
"That was a given," several Guild members muttered, as everyone found themselves in unanimous agreement with the decision.
"Gray Fullbuster!"
"Damn right!"
"Juvia Lockser!"
Next to Gray, the slightly taller, older looking woman smiled faintly, her eyes meeting Gray's own.
"It looks like we get to compete together Gray? How wonderful," the Water Mage replied with a warm smile, as they held each other's hands.
"Damn it Gray, you're going to set me off," Mira whined, before shaking her head. "Argh-! Focus! Okay, the next member is Wendy Marvell!"
"There's an interesting choice," many Guild members muttered, though they were all silenced by a glare directed at them by Erza.
"And finally, Freed Justine!"
"You would choose ME over someone like Laxus!?"
Everyone couldn't help but laugh awkwardly, as Freed accepted the role, but chose to talk about how great Laxus was whilst he did so. Once Freed had finished speaking, Mira drew the attention of the room back toward herself.
"Alright everyone, there you have it! These are the five who will show Fiore the true spirit of Fairy Tail! Now all of you stop standing around and get packing, we've got to get to Crocus by tonight!"
The Guild roared in approval, but was silenced when the doors to the Guild Hall opened, though many gasped in shock, taking a moment to recognize who had just walked in.
Before them was a teenage girl who stood at an impressive five foot nine and wore a pair of tattered gym shorts with an equally tattered black tank top. Her hair had been cut to a medium length, possessing a shagginess to it not unlike Natsu or Gajeel's hair.
Her body also seemed to have gained muscle, her entire body much beefier than before, but not overtly muscular like some of the other members of the Guild.
The girl noticed the reaction of the group and grinned, showcasing her teeth had become more like Natsu and Gajeel's as well, sharper, giving her a more feral or savage demeanor.
"Wendy," Erza gasped, rushing over toward the girl. "Wendy, what the Hell happened to you!?"
"What do you mean Erza," Wendy asked, her voice having a crackle to it now that it didn't possess before.
"D-Did your voice drop while you were away," Elise asked, garnering a nod from the Dragon Slayer. "That explains how she's gotten taller…"
"That actually checks out," Gajeel grunted, giving Wendy a once over. "She'll probably end up as tall as me or maybe a head shorter than Salamander by the time she's fully grown. Just how our Dragon sides work."
"Speaking of Natsu, where is he anyway," Makarov asked curiously, as Wendy reached into her pocket and passed Makarov a letter.
"The Council summoned Natsu two days ago, so he wrote a letter for you Master," the youngest Dragon Slayer replied. "I assume he'll be waiting for everyone in Crocus, since he doesn't know where we're staying?"
"I see. Thank you for delivering his message, Wendy," Makarov nodded, still processing the much more savage looking girl before him. "Why don't you head on home and prepare for the trip to Crocus?"
"I think we'll do that Master," Erza chimed in, looking toward Elise. "You coming?"
"Of course, though I basically have everything I need anyway," Elise replied, as the trio departed, leaving Makarov and Mira to read the letter.
"So, what does it say Master?"
"Well, let's open it up and find out, eh Mirajane," Makarov replied, opening the letter as the pair began to read.
Dear Gramps, and Mira Most Likely,
On my way back to Magnolia, I had two representatives of the Magic Council come see me about needing to meet with me urgently. I can only assume it relates to what you told me gramps before Wendy and I left on our training trip. You know, the thing regarding my current status?
That aside, I'll be hanging around Crocus Gardens gramps, so come find me around that area once you arrive in Crocus? I've got something I need to let you in on that'll be going down during the games.
Also, this part is for Mira specifically. I read up on the rules of the Grand Magic Games, and if I know you, which I like to think I do, I know that you didn't pick me for the team … Nice one! The Demoness strikes again!
Hopefully this crap isn't too serious with the Council, but if it is then we'll sort it out. With those old bastards, I find it best to expect the unexpected these days.
Oh, and please don't get mad at me for Wendy's appearance! We've been off the grid for the entire three months, so no access to anything aside from Mother nature. Her appearance isn't my fault!
See you both in Crocus!
Natsu
"Well, there we have it," Makarov shrugged in reply. "Guess we'll just have to meet Natsu in Crocus after we arrive?"
"I wonder what the Council want with him?"
"Honestly Mira, it could be anything at this point," the older man sighed tiredly. "They've always got some sort of scheme going in regards to Mages they see as useful. Gran Doma might be nothing but bones by now, but that doesn't mean Org is entirely opposite to him. The Council will always look out for itself first, before extending a hand to anyone."
"That's true. I hope he's alright, because Erza, Elise and I need to talk to him about something important…"
"Oh? And what is it the three of you have cooked up?"
"Just an opportunity to further solidify Fairy Tail's return, and probably make a lot of money in the process," Mira replied dismissively. "Just trust me Master, it's a positive thing."
"I trust you Mira, you know that," Makarov replied with a shake of his head. "Now, you'd better head home with Elfman and start packing, eh?"
"Of course. I'll see you at the station Master," Mira replied, as she too departed the Guild Hall, leaving the old man alone to lock up.
***POTD***
Arriving in Crocus later that afternoon, the sun had just begun to set over the Flower Blooming Capital as the majority of the Fairy Tail Guild disembarked and made their way into Crocus proper.
"All right everyone, listen up! We're staying at a nice hotel called the Honey Bone Inn," Makarov called out as the rowdy Guild crowded around him. "Now, you're free to go off and do what you want, but make sure you're back at the hotel by midnight! Apparently, there are consequences for any Guilds found out after this time period prior to the games!"
Many members of the Guild simply groaned at the restriction, before breaking off into groups, leaving Erza, Elise, Makarov, Mira and Wendy at the foot of the train station.
"Well then, I assume you all want to come and see Natsu with me," Makarov asked with a knowing chuckle, as the girls nodded. "I suppose I can bring you all along? After all, I don't think Natsu will mind? We're headed to the Crocus Gardens."
"That's by the palace if I remember correctly," Mira said, as she pulled out a map. "Yep, there it is!"
The girls and Makarov spent the next twenty minutes walking to Crocus Gardens, idly taking in the sights. However, when they arrived, they noticed a large crowd had formed.
"I wonder what's going on," Erza asked, as both Elise and Wendy sniffed the air.
"Impossible!"
"That can't be right!?"
"What's wrong you two," Mira asked, as they began to wade through the crowd, until they eventually managed to reach the front of the crowd.
Upon reaching the front, they were shocked to see Natsu being confronted by four men, with a dozen more behind them. Each of them varied wildly in appearance, and all four seemed to soak up the attention the confrontation drew around them.
The first of the men, who was bringing up the rear, had a small smirk on his face. He wore the outfit of a musketeer, two fingers pressed gently against the tip of his hat as his eyes scanned the area with a calculative gaze.
The man next to him was almost his polar opposite. Tall, muscular, and wearing only a pair of combat pants with matching combat boots, showing off his tattooed upper body, the man was a clear powerhouse. He towered over the rest of the group, bar Natsu, smirking as he flexed his right bicep.
The third man seemed very out of place. He had shaggy black hair and wore a long black cape with a Guild Mark emblazoned onto the upper left shoulder region, a plain grey shirt with a large metal band around his waist. Attached to this band were four long pieces of slightly armored cloth that covered his lower half, though a pair of black pants could be seen through the cracks, a pair of armored boots rounding out the outfit.
And next to this rather dark and broody individual, was again, another polar opposite.
This man had short, shaggy blonde hair and wore a blue vest with grey colored fur trimming around the edges, long, dark blue gloves that reached mid bicep, cream-colored pants with black combat boots. The rest of his upper body was completely exposed, revealing his muscular form, as well as a
And this final man stood before Natsu, though it was quite amusing seeing him have to arch his neck upward to actually meet Natsu's unimpressed gaze.
"So, you're supposed to be the famous Salamander? The infamous Wizard Saint, Natsu Dragneel," the young man smirked, before looking back toward his friends for a moment. "You don't look like much to me!? You think wearing the garb of a Wizard Saint means something when you can't even back up the name!?"
"That so," Natsu replied, his tone one that sent shivers through Mira, Erza, Wendy and Elise, knowing full well that he was not impressed by this man. "I suppose you're meant to be something then, are you?"
"Yeah, you'd better believe it," the shorter man smirked in response. "You've been gone seven years, and someone had to step up and surpass your failed legacy! That someone, that was me…"
S Class Mage Of The Sabertooth Guild
One Of The Twin Dragons Of Sabertooth
Son Of The White Dragon Monarch Weisslogia
The White Dragon
Sting Eucliffe
"Sting Eucliffe huh," Natsu chuckled, pinching the bridge of his nose, which seemed to annoy the shorter man briefly. "Okay then, Sting Eucliffe, do tell me of your accomplishments that have allowed you to surpass me?"
"I don't have to justify myself to a failure like you," Sting shot back. "But fine, I'll humor you? I'm a Third Generation Dragon Slayer, so is he."
Natsu's eyes flickered to the dark-haired man next to Sting, before flicking back to the cocky Dragon Slayer.
"Is that meant to mean something to me, Sting Eucliffe?"
"It should, because it proves my superiority to you," Sting replied cockily. "It means that, unlike you, I've actually managed to kill a Dragon, and take their power for my own!"
The Fairy Tail Mages eyes widened in shock, as the cocky Dragon Slayer laughed right in Natsu's face.
"You actually expect me to believe that YOU killed a Dragon," Natsu asked incredulously, "The two of you are striplings at best."
"Hah! Shows what you know," Sting laughed mockingly in response. "We killed Dragons alright… We killed our own Dragon parents once they ran out of their usefulness!"
"…Excuse me," Natsu whispered, as Wendy rushed out of the crowd, grabbing Natsu's arm, holding it down, though Natsu didn't look at her.
"Don't do it," the younger Dragon Slayer hissed. "Don't!"
"Look at this," Sting laughed, motioning to Wendy. "Being held back by a little girl!"
The crowd behind Sting, minus the other Dragon Slayer, roared with laughter, as Sting turned his gaze toward Wendy.
"Look at you, another mighty First Gen," the Dragon Slayer scoffed. "And just what kind of Slayer are you supposed to be… a Flower Dragon Slayer? Doll Dragon Slayer-!?"
"Watch your mouth, Sting Eucliffe," Natsu cut in, his voice dropping a decibel as he effortlessly moved Wendy behind him. "You can laugh at me all you like, Hell, you can even have a free shot at me… But don't you dare mock that girl in front of me…"
"Natsu, its alright," Wendy chimed in softly. "I don't care what he calls me-."
Wendy was silenced, as Sting struck Natsu in the stomach, shocking even those behind him, including the other Dragon Slayer who was with him.
"Sting," the black-haired Dragon Slayer hissed, grabbing onto the man's arm. "What the Hell are you doing!?"
"This washed-up fossil thinks he can just walk into Crocus wearing the garb of a Wizard Saint, and threaten me? ME!? I'm a Third Generation Slayer, he's a weak and feeble First Gen-!"
"Funny," Natsu cut in, as all eyes turned toward the man. "From where I'm standing, you're the weak one here, Sting Eucliffe?"
"What was that…?"
"Was that punch meant to hurt? Or, perhaps, you were trying a new method to crack your knuckles to prepare for the real punch?"
"Why you…"
"You aren't fooling me, Sting Eucliffe. At the level of power you're at, you couldn't kill a regular Dragon, let alone a Monarch Class Dragon like Weisslogia. Perhaps your parent was a Drake instead of a Dragon, hmm?"
"You son of a bitch," Sting snarled, clenching his fists as he began to release his Magical Power, shocking his own supporters as he shook off the other Dragon Slayer's arm. "You're a pathetic First-Generation Slayer, I'm the superior one here! You couldn't kill Achnologia, YOU'RE THE DISGRACE WHO CAN'T DEFEND ANYONE OR ANYTHING… And I'm gonna PROVE IT-!"
To the shock of everyone present, Sting cocked back for a punch, directing it not at Natsu, but Wendy instead.
In an instant, the entire area shook, and Sting was on the ground, with everyone in the crowd dropping to their knees from an all-encompassing pressure. The cocky Dragon Slayer snarled, gritting his teeth as he managed to meet the eyes of the man he so readily despised, before gasping.
Natsu hadn't even needed to move, his iris' overlapped with a deep purple Magic Circle, the power of harsh Gravity slamming down upon all those present.
"Y-You bastard-!"
"Me," Natsu asked, as the pressure vanished instantly, allowing everyone to get to their feet, the crowd falling way back. "I'm the bad one, when you were about to attack Wendy over your pathetic grudge with me?"
"Y-You're the bastard! I'm a Third Generation Slayer-!"
"And? Even if you were, which honestly, I have serious doubts, how does that make you better than me, or anyone else?"
"Tch-!"
"I bet that you think the Dragon Force makes you superior to every opponent you come across, don't you? Well, let me tell you something, Sting Eucliffe… It doesn't. The Dragon Force is one aspect of what truly makes a Dragon Slayer, and having the Lacrima from a Dragon implanted into you in order to access it through alternative means actually makes the form much weaker, since you failed to master the previous forms and truly master the flaws in your element-."
"My element has no flaws! Being a Third Generation Slayer makes my power far superior to yours!"
"You want to make a bet on that," Natsu asked coolly in reply, keeping a stern gaze on the blonde in front of him.
"Anytime, anywhere!"
"Alright then. I bet that Wendy could utterly crush both yourself, and your friend back there, by herself," Natsu smirked, shocking the Fairy Tail Mages, including Wendy, who blushed slightly from being praised so highly. "Like me, she is a First-Generation Slayer. And, unlike you, she earned all her power through hard work and persistence, dedication to mastering any and all teachings thrown her way."
"Natsu, you can't be serious," Erza called out, though her boyfriend refused to take his eyes off of the hostile Slayer, and for good reason. "You can't just expect Wendy to-!"
"I'll do it."
Erza's jaw dropped as her attention snapped to Wendy, who was now glaring down at Sting, who was still down on one knee. None of the Fairy Tail Mages had ever seen a look of white-hot fury on the usually gentle Dragon Slayer's face. In fact, it actually looked rather disturbing, seeing her hands tensed so tightly that the veins were popping out.
"I hate people like them… He says that they killed their Dragon parents, and stole their power for their own. Parents who would have raised them just like Grandina and Igneel raised Natsu and I… These Dragons, who gave them a rare gift, and they casually say they could kill them once they outlived their usefulness!?"
As Wendy snarled down at Natsu, Sting seemed to finally recover enough to get to his feet, bursting into laughter yet again.
"You're a fucking joke Natsu! You're that scared to face me that you'd send a child against the Twin Dragons of Sabertooth!?"
"She's fifteen, true, but she shows maturity far beyond her years, her power growing with each and every experience," Natsu replied firmly. "Wendy might have once been a timid and shy girl, but she just needed the right person to guide her onto the path to being the brave girl she herself always knew was there. She's more than a match for two little brats who talk of power, yet haven't worked a day for it!"
"What was that, Fairy scum," the blonde hissed, once again raising his fist in preparation to attack, only for the black-haired man to step in.
"Enough Sting! Let's save it for the tournament," the man said firmly, holding the cocky Slayer's arm back. "We can crush him then…"
"Tch-! Fine then," Sting snarled, as he fell back to the remaining members of his group, as the four stormed off.
Once they were gone, the Fairy Tail group moved toward Natsu and Wendy's position, as the older Dragon Slayer turned to look at Wendy.
"You good?"
"Yeah. Thanks for having faith in me."
"You know I trust you," Natsu smiled, as the rest of the group reached him.
"What the Hell was up that guy's ass," Elise muttered, as she and Natsu shared a fist bump.
"The mighty Twin Dragons of Sabertooth," Natsu scoffed in response. "I've heard of them in the past, but seeing them in person, I'm not impressed. Well, at least with Master Slayer Sting Eucliffe," Natsu replied mockingly.
"Natsu! You shouldn't put Wendy forward to fight them," Erza snapped, only for Natsu to wave her off.
"Do you really think I'd put her forward for something like that if I didn't think she could actually pull it off, Erza?"
"…No."
"No," Natsu smiled, shaking his head. "Anyway, sorry you all had to see that."
"Well, let's just be thankful you two didn't have a full-on fight, or we could have gotten in some real trouble," Makarov sighed. "Anyway, we're staying at the Honey Bone Inn, so let's get going."
Natsu nodded in understanding, as the group began to make their way over to their lodgings for the night.
***POTD***
Later that night, the Guild had gathered at the Honey Bone Inn, and a party naturally followed shortly after. However, several Fairy Tail Mages were noticeably absent.
Off to the left of the Honey Bone Inn was a dark alleyway, where a small meeting was taking place. Natsu, Makarov and Laxus stood in the alleyway, the latter sipping on a mug of mead.
"Heard you had a confrontation with Sabertooth," Laxus smirked, eliciting a snort from Natsu.
"Just one of their arrogant S Class Mages," Natsu replied with a shake of his head. "Anyway, let's not talk about those pricks, because we've got actual problems."
"Problems? Define problems for me," Makarov sighed, as Natsu tossed him a sheet of paper. "What's this?"
"The list of all the Guilds planning on taking part in the Grand Magic Games this year."
"And this is relevant… WHY, exactly?"
"Squint hard enough, and you'll notice a familiar little Guild on there, goes by the name of Raven Tail, gramps?"
"…What?"
"Give me that," Laxus hissed, snatching the paper from Makarov and scanning its contents. "What the fuck!? How!?"
"What's your source on this?"
"Gajeel sought me out during our three months away. It seems that both he, Levy, and Panther Lily had a bit of a confrontation with a few of their members somewhere out there," Natsu explained.
"And?"
"They brought it to me, I told them to keep it to themselves, and that I'd inform you when the time was right."
"What happened?"
"They ran into two of them, one going by the name Nulpudding, and the other called Kurohebi. Apparently, Ivan hasn't stopped trying to get his hands on Fairy Tail's secret."
"For something that is meant to be a secret, far too many know if its existence," Makarov growled, frustrated by the actions of his Son.
"Yeah. Though, I have to be honest, Ivan must have some sort of mental deficiency, since we were gone for Seven Years and he STILL hasn't acquired what he seeks?"
"Yeah, you're not wrong there," Laxus snorted in agreement. "Dumb bastard is too busy stroking his own ego, no doubt?"
"Regardless, this is certainly worrying news. Why are Raven Tail here? More importantly, HOW are they here? They were a Dark Guild seven years ago…?"
"A lot has changed over the last seven years gramps, we all know that," Natsu replied with a shrug. "Anyway, I thought you should both be aware that Ivan is skulking around."
"I'm glad you told us Natsu, because he's the last thing we need getting in the way of things," Makarov nodded stiffly. "Now, we should head on inside, its almost time for the midnight curfew."
Natsu nodded, as the trio went back inside, rejoining the party proper.
Several minutes later, Mira approached and silently took his hand, and he allowed her to guide him away, as she led him into the rooms in the far back, where Elise and Erza were waiting.
"We need to talk," Mira said calmly, as she closed the door behind them, Erza shutting the windows.
"…Am I in trouble for something?"
"No," Erza giggled, shaking her head. "No, we just don't want any of the others in the Guild to catch wind of this, let alone anyone else."
"Oh, okay. So, what's going on?"
"Two things," Mira replied, as they all sat down on the King-sized bed, Mira dropping a series of notes in-between the four of them. "The first thing has to do with a plan the three of us have discussed to make a tonne of extra Jewel over the course of the Grand Magic Games?"
"I'm listening…"
Mira leaned in, whispering her plan into his right ear, Natsu's eyebrows rising to his hairline, before the Take-Over Mage pulled away, a devious smirk on her lips.
"And all three of you want to do this?"
"I'm completely down for it if everyone else is," Erza nodded firmly. "We're all close, and the three of us have all discussed our feelings on it at length over the last three months."
"Erza's right, that's why I'm all for it too," Mira smiled. "Though, you know I would have been the one to suggest it, so that point is kind of moot, isn't it?"
"And what about you Elise," Natsu asked, his eyes turning toward the God Slayer, who slowly met his gaze. "You do realize what you're signing up for, right?"
"I trust you," was all the God Slayer uttered in response, as Natsu felt his heart clench, reminding him of certain other feelings he possessed toward a certain individual.
"All we need to do is say the word, and we can get it done before the Second Day of the games," Mira spoke, gently placing a hand on Elise's thigh as a showing of both support, and understanding. "You know this is a smart idea."
"That I do," Natsu admitted with a curt nod. "Which is why I'll do it, as if any of you thought I wouldn't have?"
The three girls shared amused glances, as the conversation turned to the second topic. Mira dropped the full rule book down before them, opening it to a marked page.
"So, with regards to this other thing," the Take-Over Mage began. "Once we get past the initial trial, I've got an idea…"
***POTD***
The next day saw all of Crocus taking the day off, as roars echoed from atop one of its many peaks.
Situated high upon the tallest peak of Crocus was a giant coliseum, the Domus Flau coliseum, and it was full to the brim with eager fans. Each and every last one of them were clamoring to see the official opening of the Grand Magic Games, as a massive Lacrima Projection appeared over the venue, showing off what appeared to be a judge's box, with three individuals seated within.
"Ladies and gentlemen! Welcome, WELCOME to the Eighth Annual Grand Magic Games," a voice boomed across all of Crocus, as the entire city seemed to roar in response. "What is that I hear Fiore? I didn't quite catch that? Tell me, and say it loud enough for me to hear all the way up in in the beautiful Domus Flau Colosseum … ARE … YOU … READY!"
If the previous cries of approval were thunderous, this was downright eardrum shattering, as the roars could be heard several towns over, as the camera zoomed in on the clearly charismatic announcer.
Despite having a phenomenal voice, the man behind it looked completely average. He was a middle aged, somewhat short man with a slightly larger than average head, with smaller facial features. He wore a basic black suit with a light blue shirt and dark blue tie.
The Chief Announcer Of The Grand Magic Games
A Perfectly Normal Individual
With No Outlandish Qualities Whatsoever
And A Full Set Of Hair
Chapati Lola
"People of Fiore, it is with GREAT pleasure that I, Chapati Lola, am back once again to commentate on this outstanding event! Joining me up here, as always, is Fiore's favorite Six Star Gourmet Chef and former member of the Magic Council, Misteeeeer Yajimaaaaaaa!"
The crowd roared in approval as it zoomed in on the short, ex member of Fairy Tail, who merely waved in response, before tapping his own microphone.
"Yes Chapati, I'm glad to have the opportunity to be back here to commentate over the games for a fourth year in a row. It looks like this year is shaping up to be the best one yet, with a record shattering ninety nine percent of Fiore's Guilds taking part in the Sky Labyrinth last night!"
"That's right Mister Yajima, and WHAT a night it was! We went from over six-HUNDRED teams, down to a mere EIGHT!? Can you believe it folks, just EIGHT TEAMS who are making it into the competition this year!?"
"Oh, I can believe it Chapati, don't you worry."
"As knowledgeable as always Mister Yajima! But I wonder if you can predict the names of the eight teams that managed to make it this far, to stand here within Domus Flau, to fight for the right to be known as the Number One Guild in Fiore!?"
The crowd roared yet again, as everyone demanded to know who the eight teams were, only for the crowd to be silenced by Yajima.
"Before we introduce our eight teams for the Eighth Grand Magic Games, we of course must thank our gracious sponsors. First up, the Magic Council, for allowing the games to be held at all, and with a guaranteed one hundred and ten percent safety rating!"
"That's right Mister Yajima! The Magic Council is ALWAYS committed to YOUR safety!"
"Our next sponsor is Sorcerer Weekly, and their coverage both before, during and following the Grand Magic Games. As always, their articles are the number one place to go for the latest scoop, fresh off the presses over at Elira Town."
"That's right Mister Yajima, Elira Town has just celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of the magazine's publication, and it's an honor to have them promoting the event!"
"Next up we have an old favorite. You know them, I know them, the Heart Kreuz Company!"
"President of Heart Kreuz, Jessabelle Kreuz, has said to expect a showcase of some of her company's latest creations during the games this year. I wonder, just what have they cooked up, and just WHO will have the honor of fielding their latest creations!?"
"And last, but certainly not least, we've got to give credit to the man who started it all and got the whole ball rolling on this event. That's right, you already know who I'm talking about, KING TOMA E. FIORE!"
As Yajima's voice boomed, the massive projection shifted focus up to a higher box seat, where King Toma sat on a throne, waving down at everyone with a wide smile on his face.
"We just have one more announcement for today, then we can get to introducing you all to the teams that will be competing!"
"That's right Chapati. We'd be remiss not to mention today's Guest Announcer, and a lovely young woman who I know needs no introduction. Nevertheless, we have THE Miss Fiore, and S Class Mage of the Blue Pegasus Guild, the lovely Miss Jenny Realight!"
The projection shifted toward a slightly older Jenny, who had thickened out in all the right places, her outfit both elegant, yet form fitting, as her long, straightened blonde hair blew gracefully to the right as she waved into the projection.
"Hi everyone, hope you're all ready for a good time today~"
The roar Jenny received in response was so loud, one could feel it in their bones, though this seemed to only amuse Jenny.
"Aww, you're all so happy this morning~ Tell me Fiore, are you happy to see little old me… Or … DO YOU WANT TO SEE OUR EIGHT TEAMS!?"
Jenny laughed as the crowd started to go ballistic, Yajima shaking his head with a small smile on his face.
"Miss Realight, seriously?"
"What, I was a good girl~"
"With the announcements out of the way, we can now get on to introducing this year's teams for the games! Firstly, and to the surprise of absolutely no one, we have the Sabertooth Guild!"
Chapati's announcement went over predictably, as the area again shook from the sheer power of the roars from the crowd, Jenny simply laughed, finding the whole thing highly amusing, as Chapati took over.
"Representing Sabertooth this year are Rufus Lore, Orga Nanagear, Yukino Agria… and, of course, the Twin Dragons of Sabertooth… Sting Eucliffe and Rogue Cheney!"
The crowd exploded as Team Sabertooth entered the arena. Led by Sting, the rest of his Guild followed his lead, as the massive form of Orga flexed at the rear of the group, all of them soaking up the attention.
Eventually, Yajima and Chapati managed to regain order, the former continuing on.
"The next Guild we've got here that managed to surprisingly snag second place, are none other than Lamia Scale! Representing them are Lyon Vastia, Sherria Blendy, Yuka Suzuki, Toby Horhorta and… Oh my, it looks like Team Sabertooth are going to have a real fight on their hands this year! As Team Captain for Lamia Scale, and one of the Ten Wizard Saints, Jura Neekis!"
The moment Jura's name was mentioned, the crowd exploded yet again, with many agreeing that Jura's presence alone already solidified the win for Lamia Scale, though diehard Sabertooth fans immediately bit back.
As for the man himself, he merely smirked, walking into the ring leading his team clad in a rather nice black and red yukata.
"Moving right along, we have fan favorites and longtime finalists, Blue Pegasus! They're being represented this year by Hibiki Lates, Ren Akatsuki, Eve Tearm, the lovely Miss Jenny Realight and their Team Captain, Ichiya Vandalay Kotobuki!"
The roars weren't quite as deafening as Blue Pegasus emerged, though there were a lot of girlish screams and marriage proposals as the Trimens walked out into the arena.
"The next team to make it in, as always, are the lovely ladies of Mermaid Heel! You've seen them in action before, and they are most certainly not to be underestimated!"
"That they aren't Chapati. They came very close to winning last year thanks to the efforts of two of their S Class Members, so I'm sure we're all curious to see what they've got up their sleeves this time around!? Team Mermaid Heel is represented by Risley Law, Arana Webb, Beth Vanderwood, Milliana and their Captain, and rightly feared powerhouse, Kagura Mikazuchi!"
The roars were certainly present, but many seemed confused at the lack of one of their most prominent members. It took several moments for information to be relayed to the hosts, as Yajima addressed the crowd.
"Ladies and gentlemen, I know you're all likely pondering the lineup for Team Mermaid Heel, just as I was. However, I'm afraid that this news is rather saddening, especially for those who knew her…"
The entire arena went dead silent, the Mermaid Heel Mages remaining calm and collected, though it was obvious that something had indeed happened prior to the event.
"Two days ago, at approximately four in the afternoon, the Second Guild Master, Madame Tomaria Knashbury, died at the age of eighty-seven."
The projection moved up toward King Toma's seat, as the King slowly rose to his feet, tapping his own microphone.
"In light of this recent revelation, I would have one minute's silence to remember Madame Tomaria Knashbury, a well loved and renowned figure of Fiore, whose contributions to the Fiore Gardener's Society saw many breakthroughs in disease detection and prevention."
No one argued, as a deathly silence descended upon not just Domus Flau, but the entire country. Once the minute's silence had passed, King Toma spoke up once more.
"Mages of Mermaid Heel, I would address you directly. Despite the death of your Guild Master, you ladies have shown strength, courage and determination, but setting forth upon this stage today in the hopes of proving yourselves as the strongest Guild in Fiore. As a result, I pledge to donate six million Jewel to the Fiore Gardener's Society, one million for all five members, and another million for the Ace of Mermaid Heel, who now stands before us anew!"
King Toma pointed, as the projection shifted over to the box where the rest of Mermaid Heel were gathered. Standing tall, was the rough, tomboyish former Ace of Mermaid Heel, arms crossed, her gaze hard.
"People of Fiore, may we all show our gratitude to the powerful ladies of Mermaid Heel, and their newly appointed Third Guild Master, KIARA LYNNES!"
Toma sat back down, as the roar of the crowd hammered the stadium harder than ever. Kiara couldn't help but smirk, looking down at Kagura, the pair sharing a stiff nod.
"Well, I can say none of us expected that. However, we still have several more teams to introduce!"
"Right you are Chapati! And the next Guild is a rather interesting one indeed. Though they've been around for seven years, this is their first time entering the Grand Magic Games. Does this Guild believe it has what it takes to stand up to the might of the other Guilds here today?"
"I can't wait to find out Mister Yajima, because some of these Mages have made a real name for themselves!"
"Indeed they have Chapati! Coming in now is the Highfather Guild, being represented by Soru Sakai, Yamata Kenno, Lysandre Latore, Verity Parkinson, and Team Captain, a woman known across Fiore as the Mistress of Death, Phyrra Ashar!"
There was a surprising amount of applause as the newcomers walked out onto the field, all clearly calm and composed, as they made their way to their designated place in the arena.
"Moving right along, we have a rather… strange…Guild. Coming from out of literally nowhere is the Raven Tail Guild. They're being represented by Flare Corona, Nulpudding, Obra, Kurohebi and their Captain Alexei."
Yajima clearly wasn't enthusiastic at all announcing this Guild, and the crowd likewise mimicked that sentiment. It was widely known that Raven Tail were a Dark Guild, so their appearance here made almost no sense.
As for the members of Raven Tail themselves, they soaked up the negativity, laughing at the crowd.
"Moving swiftly along, we have a Guild that I think might surprise a lot of you. You know them, I definitely know them… It's FAIRY TAIL!"
The moment Yajima announced them, many in the stands openly began to laugh instead of cheer. That was, at least, until people started realizing just who was actually on the team itself.
"That's right ladies and gentlemen, Team Fairy Tail is coming in strong this year and are being represented by Freed Justine, Wendy Marvell, Gray Fullbuster, Juvia Lockser, and their Team Captain, Fairy Tail's Titania, Erza Scarlett!"
The crowd lost it, as the majority of the team found itself comprised of massive names from the past, with Wendy's inclusion being seen as more of a surprise. Despite this, sentiment from within the crowd wasn't too high, as few believed this team had a chance of winning the entirety of the games.
"Well now, it looks like we've had a bit of an upset folks! Fairy Tail seems to have capitalized on the rules of the tournament, managing to slip a SECOND team through-Wait a minute… MAKI, YOU CAN'T BE SERIOUS!? YOU CAN'T HAVE THESE FIVE ALL ON ONE TEAM, THERE WON'T BE A DAMN STADIUM LEFT!?"
The crowd fell silent, shocked by Yajima's uncharacteristic lapse in his usually calm demeanor. The man was visibly shaken as he raised the paper so he could read it closely.
"Team Fairy Tail B as we'll call it, consists of some of the largest names to ever come out of the Guild. Each of these members all are legends in their own right, and some have gone even further beyond that…"
"That's right Mister Yajima, I can scarcely believe I'm looking at a lineup this stacked!? This is unprecedented!"
"Representing Team Fairy Tail B are Laxus Dreyar, a man who once fought three Dark Guilds by himself, is a Dragon Slayer, not to mention an S Class Mage of the Guild and Grandson to the Wizard Saint Makarov Dreyar…"
"Next up is Elise Faulkner, former Captain of the Magic Council's Dark Guild Subjugation Squad, a God Slayer who has been known to fight S Class criminals since the age of fourteen and is also a recently promoted S Class Mage…"
"Gajeel Redfox, former S Class Mage of the Phantom Lord Guild, another Dragon Slayer, and a man who was once known as one of Fiore's top spies before his disappearance seven years ago…"
"Mirajane Strauss, another S Class Mage and is widely considered one of the strongest Mages in Fairy Tail with the power to harness the strength of Demons, and was the undisputed Miss Fiore until the Tenrou Island incident…"
As Yajima's gaze dropped to the last name on the list, he thought he was about to have a heart attack, already seeing unfathomable levels of destruction, should he be allowed to actually fight.
"And finally, as Team Captain of Fairy Tail Team B, we have a man who took the entire country by storm seven years ago. Knight Commander of the Scarlione Empire, S Class Mage of Fairy Tail, former Wizard Saint Rank Six until the Tenrou Island incident. He is a man who possesses frightening power, and seemingly limitless potential…"
"I'll say Mister Yajima. He has utterly crushed every opponent who has dared stand against him! Jose Porla, former Wizard Saint and Guild Master of Phantom Lord, Jellal Fernandes, another Wizard Saint and a former member of the Magic Council. Both of them stood no chance against the might of this man, and that doesn't even begin to scratch the surface of his deeds against the Bharam Alliance!"
"Representing Team Fairy Tail B as its Captain, is a man who most definitely earned this title through blood, sweat and tears. Fairy Tail's Oberon, NATSU DRAGNEEL!"
Just as the crowd was about to explode into nearly psychotic amounts of hype and applause, a large lightning bolt in the shape of the Fairy Tail Guild Mark appeared in front of the entrance to the arena, before the lightning was suddenly swallowed by darkness.
Then, everyone felt it.
There was a massive explosion, as Laxus walked out first, coat flapping away, fists clenched, and a deadly serious expression on his face. Sparks crackled around him as he leaked some of his power alongside the rest of his team.
To Laxus' left was Elise, clad fully in her Demigod Armor, though she refrained from using God's Aura, opting to instead merely leak her substantial reserves. In her right hand was her trademark ebony sword, the blade visibly shaking under her power.
Behind Elise was the emergence of what most at first thought a member of the Tartaros Guild. However, this was merely Mirajane Strauss in a Satan Soul almost no one had seen before. The Demon smirked cruelly upon seeing Makarov faint after merely glancing at her, knowing that Mira had been very naughty letting her out to play as darkness swirled around her form.
A loud screeching sound drew everyone's attention toward the smoke, as one of the doors were ripped clean off. This was followed by the sound of clanging metal, as Gajeel emerged, casually eating a four-tonne door, holding it up with one arm.
And finally, Natsu himself made his entrance.
Despite the impressive entrances of the others, Natsu just lazily strolled on in, clad in his Wizard Saint attire. Despite being the least intimidating entrance, to the both the seasoned Mages and well informed spectators alike, his wound up being the most intimidating by far. His gentle smile and relaxed demeanor told everyone that he knew his worth, knew exactly where he stood in the pecking order among the gathered Mages.
The crowd remained stunned into silence for a full minute, before they suddenly exploded in ravenous applause unlike any that had come before. Natsu smirked upon noticing how pissed off Sting was at his entrance, finding the Dragon Slayer's jealousy amusing.
"WHAT! AN! ENTRANCE! Folks, I think we can all agree with Mister Yajima that this year's Grand Magic Games being the best one yet!?
"Indeed it will Chapati! This year will be the greatest games so far, and we'll be right here alongside you all to give you the best play by play commentary!"
As the crowd roared in approval up in the stands and around Crocus, down on the ground, the Guilds had begun to mix with each other.
"The mighty Salamander! Or, I suppose you've finally been given the title you rightfully deserve as King of the Fairies, eh," a familiar voice called out cheerfully, as Natsu turned to see Jura heading right toward him.
"Jura Neekis! Long time no see man! You somehow look like an old monk now," Natsu joked, as the pair shared a laugh. "So, you stole my spot?"
"What can I say, someone had to do some work, didn't they?"
"You big bastard, come here," Natsu grinned, as the pair shook hands firmly.
"I heard you are to be tested during these games to see where you'll rank among the Ten. I must say, I'm excited to see where you'll fit-."
"As if the Council would even bother letting a washout like him back into the Wizard Saints! I guess it just goes to show how the standard of what makes a good Mage has slipped these last few years," Sting cut in cockily, as many of the Guilds that knew Natsu personally, knew full well that the kid was digging his grave as fast as Gildarts would be able to excavate a hole with his Crash Magic.
"Cocky brats like you are usually the first ones in the body bags when the action kicks off Sting," Natsu replied casually. "Maybe if you spent more time training instead of talking trash, then we'd have something to talk about? You know, at a first glance of everyone here, from all the other Guilds gathered, minus your own, there are nine people who could take you out."
"You lecture me about talking trash then make a pathetic statement like that!? Just goes to show that you really are an idiot, doesn't it!? A weak, pathetic washout who couldn't even slay a Dragon!"
"I'd like to see you even face down Achnologia like Natsu did you little bastard," Elise snarled in response, coming to his defense.
"It would only take me a minute at most to take out that piece of work! And even less to take out a washout like you Natsu!"
"You seriously have a problem with me, don't you?"
"Of course I do! You made all Dragon Slayers look like absolute garbage when you couldn't even kill Achnologia! To make matters worse, there were FOUR Slayers there!"
"Considering just how powerful the four Slayers are, don't you think that it only makes Achnologia's power that much more immense than your own," Jura countered, as Sting scoffed.
"You wouldn't understand, you aren't a Dragon Slayer!"
"I may not be a Dragon Slayer, true. However, I have fought alongside one before, and the power I felt all those years ago was something that, even today, I would still focus all my attention on. You clearly don't understand the way Magical Power works, Sting Eucliffe. Until you do, you will never understand just how much of a gap there is between you, and countless other Mages in this world..."
"As always, Jura Neekis makes a strong case! And, it is one that exudes a most potent parfum, I might add. Power comes from trial and experience, and only those who have truly tried and suffered to reach said heights will ever truly be able to fathom the exact complexity of it."
"What Ichiya is trying to say is you clearly aren't experienced enough to be able to read an opponent like some of the other Mages here. Because if you could, and you realized just how much you mouthed off at the wrong people just now, you would be running out of this arena with your tail in between your legs," Lyon added, garnering nods from many of the other Mages on the ground, including most of the former Dark Guild Mages, which surprised many in the crowd.
Sting just scowled in response, as a large screen appeared above them, taking attention away from the confrontation in the ring.
"Alright everyone, we have the schedule for the next five days! To our eight teams, make sure you prepare accordingly for the coming challenges! This year, King Toma wishes to see more combat-oriented games that skip out on the fancy stuff. So, you'll want to make sure you're all at your best for what's to come!"
Yajima fell silent as the massive projection flashed several times, before DAY ONE flashed up on the screen in bright bold colors.
"Ladies and gentlemen, its time to officially announce the first challenge for today! We're bringing you … the Five Layered Anarchy Pit!"
The crowd roared in approval, which told Natsu that this had been an event previously. Curious, he looked up at the screen as Yajima explained the rules of the game.
"The rules are quite simple everyone! Each team shall choose one member to represent them, and they will wait near one of the eight Lacrima Spheres placed evenly along the arena's edge. Once everyone is in place, all competitors will be whisked into the Anarchy Pit!"
"And yes everyone, the Anarchy Pit, as its name suggests, is indeed Five Layered. Some of you may be wondering what the Anarchy Pit is like, right? Well, to put it simply, it's a place where we have placed monsters of varying difficulty, scaled by which layer you are currently on. One being the easiest, and five being the most dangerous!"
"Now the goal for this task is rather straightforward. Each Mage is tasked with reaching the end of the gauntlet, and claiming the tome at the end, which will be worth fifty points. The monsters on levels One through Four aren't worth any points, however, the S Class Beasts on level Five are worth ten points each, with there being a total of four of them roaming around down there. Eliminating other competitors isn't going to get you points, but remember, it does deny them a chance at gaining any as well. So, it will be up to you as to your course of action!"
"Alright teams, please select a member to enter the Anarchy Pit, whilst the rest of you head up to the competitor boxes!"
"I'll handle this one," Gajeel grunted, as he stepped forward, the rest of the group shaking their heads as they began to walk away.
"Well, at least he saved us the trouble of having to decide," Laxus shrugged, with both Mira and Elise giggling.
"Hey, looks like the others chose Gray to go in," Natsu noticed, seeing the Ice Make Mage stepping up to one of the spheres. "I'm keen to see how good he is after seven years?"
The group all nodded silently, as they made their way up to the competitor's box, watching as the team members on the ground were whisked away somewhere.
"Alright everyone, the last of the competitors has entered the arena! Let the first challenge of the Grand Magic Games BEGIN!"
With Chapati's declaration, the Grand Magic Games had begun in earnest, with the Mages of Fairy Tail eager to do their best.