A/N : First day in Crocus, chapter 7 incoming !

Note : I'm sorry for those expecting more details about the games. Remember theses are still my first chapters ever, and I wasn't feeling confident going overboard writing detailed scenes for every GMG events. I did my best tho, and I'll maybe come back to it later to expand some.

Enjoy !

It was early morning, and the guild was buzzing with preparations for our trip to Crocus. Everyone was ready to leave, except for me.

"Haru!" Mira's stern voice cut through my sleepy haze. "Stop slumping on the counter. We're leaving for Crocus!"

"I'm tired, Mira. It's way too early, and you didn't make me my coffee," I grumbled, my head resting on my arms.

Mira sighed, shaking her head with a mix of exasperation and amusement. "You'll miss the train if you don't hurry up."

Natsu, always full of energy, bounded over. "Come on, Haru! We can't have you dragging your feet when we're about to head to the Grand Magic Games!"

I groaned, lifting my head slightly. "Fine, fine. But seriously, can I get my coffee first?"

Mira smiled, relenting. "Alright, but make it quick. We don't want to keep everyone waiting."

As she prepared my coffee, I glanced around at the bustling guild hall. Erza was meticulously checking her gear, Gray was helping Lucy with her luggage, and Wendy was chatting with Carla and Happy.

Mira handed me a steaming cup of coffee, and I took a grateful sip, feeling the warmth spread through me. "Thanks, Mira. I needed this."

Suddenly, I felt a demonic presence. Mira was standing over me, her eyes glowing red. "Now finish it quick and get ready. If not I'll send you to Crocus myself" she warned, her voice dripping with ominous intent.

I turned pale, quickly gulping down my coffee and rushing outside to pack my stuff. Natsu laughed heartily at my reaction as Mira returned to her usual cheerful self, smiling happily.

"That's better," she said, her tone light and pleasant again.

I hurriedly packed my belongings, making sure I had everything I needed for the journey and the games. As I slung my bag over my shoulder, Natsu came over, still grinning from ear to ear. "You know, Mira can be pretty scary when she wants to be."

"Tell me about it," I replied, sweatdropping.

"Alright, everyone!" Makarov's voice boomed, drawing our attention. "Time to move out. The train won't wait for us, and we have a schedule to keep."

We all gathered outside the guild hall, the morning sun casting a golden glow over Magnolia. Makarov stood at the front, his expression a mix of pride and determination. "The Grand Magic Games await us. Let's show them what Fairy Tail is made of!"

The guild members cheered, their spirits high as we began our journey to the train station.

—

As we boarded the train, I found a seat by the window, watching the familiar scenery of Magnolia fade into the distance. The excitement and anticipation of the games filled the air, and I couldn't help but feel excitement..

Wendy approached me, her eyes bright with excitement. "Hey, Haru, mind if I sit with you?" she asked, a shy smile on her face.

"Of course, Wendy. I'd love that," I replied, moving my bag to make space for her.

She settled into the seat next to me, her presence comforting. "Are you excited about the games?" she asked, her voice filled with anticipation.

"Yeah, I am. A little nervous too, but mostly excited," I admitted, turning to look at her. "How about you?"

Wendy nodded, her smile widening. "Me too. We've all trained so hard, and I can't wait to see how much we've improved."

I ruffled her hair affectionately. "I'm sure you'll do great. I don't even know why I'm nervous, knowing I'm not even part of the team," I said.

"Being a fan is a lot of work, ya know!" she answered happily.

I laughed. "I know, I know. I'll do my best."

The gentle rocking of the train and the soft hum of conversation around us created a soothing atmosphere. It only took a few minutes for us to fall asleep, my head propped against the back seat while Wendy rested on my shoulder.

Mira, passing by, noticed us and smiled warmly at the sight. "So cute," she whispered to herself, her heart warmed by the bond between us.

The journey to Crocus continued smoothly, the train cutting through the lush countryside. Occasionally, I would stir, but the comforting presence of Wendy kept me relaxed. Her soft breathing and the weight of her head on my shoulder felt reassuring.

As the train began to approach the city, the excitement in the carriage grew. Guild members chatted animatedly about strategies and the competition ahead. I gently stirred Wendy awake, her eyes fluttering open as she yawned and stretched.

"We're almost there," I said softly.

She nodded sleepily, rubbing her eyes. "Thanks for letting me rest, Haru."

"Anytime," I replied with a smile. "Let's get ready. It's almost showtime."

The train pulled into the bustling station of Crocus, the capital city of Fiore. The sight of the grand buildings and the lively streets filled me with awe. It was a beautiful city, and the perfect setting for the Grand Magic Games.

We disembarked, gathering our belongings and joining the rest of the guild. Makarov took the lead, guiding us through the busy streets towards our lodging. The city buzzed with energy, the anticipation of the games palpable in the air.

As we walked, Wendy stayed close by my side, her excitement mirrored in my own. "This is it," she said, her voice filled with wonder. "The Grand Magic Games."

"Yeah," I replied, feeling a surge of determination. "Let's make the most of it."

"Haru, can I... take your hand?" Wendy asked, her voice soft and slightly hesitant.

I was surprised for a moment, then chuckled warmly. "Of course, Wen, you don't need to ask," I answered.

We followed our guild, Wendy happily holding my hand as we walked through the bustling streets of Crocus.

"Well, well, well, look at you two," Erza said with a teasing smile. "Looks like you really appreciate Haru, Wendy."

Wendy blushed at those words. "It's... It's different with him. I feel safe."

I smiled at her words, ruffling her hair gently. Her honesty and trust meant a lot to me..

The team had to meet at midnight in the inn. Those were the instructions for the games. After spending most of the day wandering about and checking all the different kinds of stores and goods, I watched as Wendy and the others headed for the inn, while I joined the rest of the guild at a nearby tavern for a drink.

"You think they'll be OK?" Alzack asked, opening a beer and taking a swig.

"I'm sure they'll do fine," said Macao confidently.

"I'm sure they'll win," I added, lifting my glass. "Cheers to the Fairy Tail team!"

We clinked our glasses togethe. The tavern buzzed with the lively chatter of guild members, all eager for the games to begin.

As we waited, Bisca leaned over to Alzack. "Did you see the magic shop earlier? They had some interesting new items."

Alzack nodded, his eyes lighting up. "Yeah, I picked up a few things. Thought they might come in handy during the games."

Macao joined in, grinning. "I saw you eyeing that enchanted rifle, Bisca. Did you get it?"

Bisca laughed, taking a sip of her drink. "You know me too well. I couldn't resist."

Nearby, Cana was dealing cards, entertaining a small group of guild members with her usual flair. "Who's up for a quick game? Winner gets a free drink!"

Elfman slapped his hand on the table. "I'm in! A real man never backs down from a challenge."

Everyone laughed, the atmosphere warm and light-hearted. I felt a tap on my shoulder and turned to see Mirajane smiling at me.

"Enjoying yourself, Haru?" she asked, her eyes twinkling.

"Yeah, this is great," I replied. "It's nice to relax a bit before the games start."

But before I could add anything, she sat down next to me, close to me. I was a bit taken aback by this sudden physical contact, but not unhappy.

"So, who's having another drink?" asked Mira, her cheerful voice cutting through the chatter.

A few boys eagerly agreed.

"What about you, Haru?" she asked, her eyes locking with mine, closer than she had ever been. I couldn't help but blush slightly.

"H-huh, yeah, please... I'll have another one," I stammered.

"And one more for Haru!" she said, smiling happily before leaving for the bar.

"Well, that's new..." said Bisca, a smirk on her lips.

"What?" I asked, my cheeks still slightly pink.

Alzack laughed. "Oh come on, man, even a blind guy could see what's going on here."

I felt a bit flustered, unsure of how to respond. "I-I don't know what you're talking about."

Bisca leaned in, her smirk widening. "Mira doesn't get that close to just anyone, you know."

Before I could react, Mira returned with a fresh drink for me. "Here you go, Haru," she said, her smile warm and genuine.

"Thanks, Mira," I said, taking the drink and trying to ignore the teasing looks from Bisca and Alzack.

Mira sat down again, this time even closer. "So, Haru, what do you think about the games? Got any predictions?" she asked, her tone casual but her eyes filled with curiosity.

"Well, that's an easy one, Fairy Tail winner of course," I said, a little annoyed she even asked.

"I know, I was just teasing you," she said, poking my cheek before leaving.

I turned around only to meet Alzack and Bisca's smirks. I just deadpanned before taking another sip.

"You're hopeless," Alzack laughed, shaking his head.

Bisca grinned. "Just enjoy the attention, Haru. Mira doesn't give it lightly."

I sighed. "Yeah, yeah. Let's just focus on tomorrow."

—

The next morning, I woke up from my little spot I found between two roofs. It wasn't as good as Fairy Tail, but it would do. I recalled Mira literally pulling me away from the roof last night, insisting that I needed a nice sleep in a comfy bed. But sure, I preferred my outdoor roof that much.

Stretching, I took in the early morning sights of Crocus. The city was already bustling with activity, the excitement for the Grand Magic Games palpable in the air. I made my way down from my rooftop perch, heading towards the inn where the others were staying.

"Hey, Haru!" said Elfman, already having breakfast.

"Hey, big guy," I replied, still needing my morning hot beverage. As I approached the bar, I noticed a steaming coffee cup already waiting for me. I looked up and saw Mira, who winked at me. I smiled, thanking her for the nice gesture.

"Apparently, yesterday at midnight was an elimination round," said Macao, looking a bit concerned. "I've got no news of our team, though. Apparently, they kept only eight teams out of 120."

"Mavis, that's some thick elimination," I said, sipping my coffee.

"And we won't know if they passed until the announcement of the first day," sighed Wakaba.

"I'm sure they passed, it's Fairy Tail," I grinned, trying to keep everyone's spirits up.

A/N : Quick little chapter, next one will be the very first day of the games.

Hope you'll like it !

See ya

.Ney.