A/N : Okay, this is just a very small chapter I absolutely wanted to do. For now, I'll keep it like that, but I'll maybe add some more content later on. Right now, I'm happy with, it ends perfectly the grand magic games arc.

Enjoy !

When I woke up, I found myself in the familiar surroundings of the infirmary. Again.

"Oh, come on," I groaned groggily, rubbing my temples in an attempt to ease the pounding headache. "I'm gonna start thinking the infirmary is my home now," I muttered to myself.

As I gradually regained consciousness, I noticed a note resting on the table beside me. I reached out to grab it.

"When you wake up, meet us at the Crocus palace. We are all at the ball. Mira xxx," the note read.

"Heh, can't even wait for me to celebrate," I chuckled softly.

With a sigh, I pushed myself to sit up, though my body protested every movement. I knew I needed more rest, but the thought of joining my friends at the palace filled me with excitement.

"I guess sleeping can wait," I mumbled to myself, steeling my resolve as I swung my legs over the edge of the bed.

Struggling to my feet, I couldn't help but lament the soreness that seemed to permeate every muscle and joint.

"Mavis, I would have preferred sleeping, to be honest," I grumbled, my voice laced with exhaustion as I shuffled towards the door.

Arriving at the entrance of the infirmary, I was met with the daunting sight of numerous stairs leading up to the palace.

"Oh, come on," I whined, feeling a pang of dread at the prospect of climbing them. But with a deep breath, I began the slow ascent, each step a testament to my resilience.

The distant sounds of the ball—the laughter, the clinking of glasses—floated through the night air, tantalizing and yet so far away. My legs trembled beneath me, threatening to give way at any moment. I was a few meters away from the door, but it might as well have been miles.

And then, just as I feared I would collapse, I felt a strong presence beside me, a sturdy foundation that held me up before I hit the ground. Opening my eyes, I found myself staring into the calm gaze of Jura Neekis, the very opponent I had faced in the arena.

"J-Jura?" I stammered, surprised by his unexpected appearance.

"Hi, kiddo," he greeted with a small smile, his voice gentle yet firm. "Maybe a little more sleep would have been beneficial."

"I-I'm sorry, sir, I just..." I began, but he cut me off with a reassuring gesture.

"Hey, hey, hey," he interjected, his tone warm and inviting. "Call me Jura. I'll take you to your friends. They're waiting for you with much energy."

With his support, I found the strength to stand once more, leaning on him as we made our way towards the door.

—

"Hello, everyone," Jura announced, his voice teasing as he stepped into the midst of the festivities. "I found someone collapsing in the corridor, and I think he's here to see you."

His words trailed off as all eyes turned towards us, and I could hear gasps of surprise and concern rippling through the crowd. I felt a pang of embarrassment as I realized just how bad I must look, my body leaning heavily against Jura's arm, barely able to stand on my own.

"S-Sorry, guys," I managed to mumble, my voice weak and hoarse.

But any apology was drowned out by the chorus of voices that erupted in response. "Haru!" "Are you okay?" "What happened?" The questions and exclamations came fast and frantic, mingling with expressions of worry and relief.

Mira rushed forward, her eyes wide with concern as she reached out to support me. "Haru, sweetheart, what happened?" she asked.

Wendy hovered nearby, her eyes brimming with tears as she reached out to touch my arm. "You scared us, Haru," she whispered, her voice barely above a whisper.

Erza, Gray, and the others crowded around, their expressions a mix of concern and relief as they took in the sight of me leaning against Jura's arm, looking worse for wear.

"Relax, y'all," I started. "I just got up a bit too fast, maybe I needed a bit more rest. I'm still a bit... tired," I said, scratching my head.

Many smiles appeared on faces, even a few chuckles.

Gray came over to take me off Jura's arm. "Thanks," he added to Jura, who nodded.

"This is becoming a habit, and I'm not liking it," I deadpanned to Gray as he helped me out. He only laughed.

"Not my fault if you're always the one in the infirmary!" he said, putting me down on a chair.

As everyone crowded around me, including members from other guilds, I couldn't shake the nervousness that tinged my excitement. I hoped that the conversation wouldn't dwell on my fight with Jura all night. However, as I settled into my seat, Master Makarov approached me directly.

"Haru," he began, his voice carrying the weight of years of wisdom and pride.

"Yeah, gramps?" I replied, unable to resist a playful jab.

"Stop calling me gramps..." he retorted, drawing a few chuckles from those nearby. "Anyway," he continued, his tone shifting to one of earnest gratitude, "I think, on behalf of everyone, I can say it: thank you. You fought for Fairy Tail, you fought for us, for everyone here tonight. And you made it. You made us proud, and you showed the entire world the power of Fairy Tail."

His words struck a chord deep within me, and I felt a swell of emotion rise in my chest. Master Makarov turned his attention to the assembled crowd, his expression one of paternal pride.

"And you should know," he declared, his voice ringing out with conviction, "I'm a proud father, towards every single one of you, my children."

The sentiment was met with cheers and applause from all around, and I couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude towards my guildmates and the master who had guided us.

"Now please," Master Makarov concluded, his eyes twinkling with warmth, "celebrate and make the most out of our success!"

The room erupted into cheers, tears welling in my eyes as a smile spread across my lips. I had done it. I had made them proud. Finally.

Even members of other guilds joined in the applause, their smiles reflecting the camaraderie and respect that existed between us all.

"Haru..." Mira's voice reached me through the crowd, and I turned to see her approaching with concern etched on her features.

Before I could respond, she enveloped me in a warm embrace, her arms wrapping around me tightly. "Don't you ever scare me like that, ever again," she whispered, her words muffled against my shoulder.

I smiled, the warmth of her embrace comforting me in ways words couldn't express. "I will try, I promise," I replied softly, savoring the moment of connection and understanding between us.

On the side, Lucy and Erza were observing us with amused expressions.

"I give them one month," Erza remarked, a mischievous glint in her eye.

"Bet," Lucy responded with a grin, reaching out to high five Erza.

Wendy swiftly joined the embrace, her voice filled with a mix of relief and exasperation. "Haru! You're an idiot!" she exclaimed, her words punctuated by the tightness of her hug.

I chuckled softly, feeling the warmth of her embrace comforting me. "Heh, maybe I am, Wen. Come here," I said, reaching out and lifting her up under the shoulders. Her eyes sparkled with a mixture of emotions, and she returned the hug with renewed fervor.

As I held her close, I gently wiped away the tears from her cheeks, my heart swelling with affection. "I'm okay, everything is fine, Wen," I murmured softly, the words a reassurance to both of us.

As I gently set Wendy back on the ground, another imposing figure approached: Jura. He stood before me, his presence commanding respect, and I felt a surge of admiration.

Without a word, Jura extended his hand towards me, a gesture of camaraderie and respect. I met his gaze, feeling mutual understanding pass between us.

"I will forever remember our fight, Haru. And again, congratulations," he said, his voice carrying a note of genuine admiration.

I clasped his hand firmly in mine, feeling the strength and respect in his grip. "Thank you, Jura. I'll never forget this moment," I replied, a grin spreading across my face.

A/N : Told ya, very small one ! Next chapter is the guild returning to Magniolia, and we'll have some little Gray/Haru interactions (yes I love Gray's character and he fits PERFECTLY with my idea of Haru's bro)

Until then, see ya !

.Nei.