A/N : On with chapter 8 !
Enjoy !
I spent two full days in the infirmary, drinking Porlyusica's horrible medicines. Horrible, but very efficient. In two days, I was already back on my feet, ready to head out. Those days went by in a blink, with all the members checking on me every few moments during the day. Gray, Wendy and Amy even came multiple times a day. I was kept informed about everything, the events, the scores, the matches... FairyTail finally was awakening, showing everyone how strong they were. Even though I would have killed to be able to watch Natsu Gajeel against Sabertooth.
I was about to open the door when Porlyusica halted me.
"Relax Kalen, don't go rushing out getting into fights again" warned Porlyusica
"Sure grandma, thanks !"
"Don't call me like that !" she yelled, but I had already escaped.
"Gray!" I yelled, finally reaching the Fairy Tail balcony, making some of them turn around.
"Kalen! Finally managed to get past Porlyusica?" He grinned.
"Yeah, finally out of that stupid bed," I smiled back.
"I mean, you NEEDED that bed, seeing how bad of a state you were," said Erza, pinching my cheeks, earning a pout from me.
"So, where are we at? What's going on?" I said, rushing towards the edge, trying to catch a glimpse of what was happening.
"Master is about to announce the new Fairy Tail team. We're gonna merge into one ultimate team now that Raven Tail has been disqualified," announced Erza.
"Sounds fun, but where are the others?" I asked.
"Long story," sighed Gray. "But Natsu is trying to save Lucy, and Amy and Wendy just went to grab a bite to eat. They should be back soon."
"Saving Lucy?" I barked. "I spent two days in bed, and someone is in danger again? We never get to catch a break..."
Levy approached me, curiosity in her eyes. "Hey Kalen! Glad you're feeling better. I just wanted to know... have you managed to understand the notes by any chance?" she asked, getting everyone's attention. "I've never seen you use that style of magic."
I pulled out the notes from my bag, getting ready to explain what I figured out that day. Gathering my thoughts, I started explaining. "For weeks, I was confused by these symbols on the note," I began, pointing at the paper. "But they seem to represent the sun and moon, similar yet distinct, forming an arc. At first, I thought I needed to use more magic, more strength, to unlock powerful spells, and that it would depend on the current time of day."
Gray leaned in, intrigued. "Yeah, that's what I would have thought as well... So what changed?"
I glanced up at the sky, remembering the moment I understood. "But when I looked up that day, everything finally clicked. The key was in front of me the whole time—my weapons."
Erza crossed her arms, a thoughtful look on her face. "Your weapons?"
I nodded. "Yeah," pointing at the symbols. "I realized those symbols represent different stages of the sun and moon throughout the day. I believe I can replicate those stages with my magic. The secret wasn't about using more power; it was about channeling my magic correctly into my weapons. And obviously, being strong enough to channel enough to reach a certain stage."
Levy's eyes widened. "So you just needed to fill your weapons with enough magic to activate it?"
"Exactly. I mean, I think..." I said. "Seems a bit too easy, but that's the conclusion I've reached so far. And I still haven't figured out the meaning of those words."
Everyone listened to my explanation, taking in every single piece of new information.
"Please listen," requested Master Makarov, as Amy and Wendy just came back. "As you all know, Natsu and a few others are engaged in a side mission. I know this is taking a risk, but I feel it's the best solution. So, this is the final Fairy Tail team," he smiled.
"Gray! Erza! Laxus! Kalen! Amy!" He finally announced.
Saying I was surprised would be an understatement, glancing at Amy, whose reaction was completely overboard.
"I'm sorry, what?" she yelled. "What's all that about? How can I be part of the last Fairy Tail team? I haven't even participated in the games!"
"I know, I know. But with Gajeel being with Mira and Natsu, I've decided you'll be the one participating. And the choice isn't only coming from me," Makarov softly added, his gaze shifting to Mavis, our first Master, sitting on the edge of the balcony.
"I-I was chosen by our founder master?" Amy paled, almost fainting.
Mavis smiled warmly, her ethereal presence calming the tension. "Amy, your strength and spirit have not gone unnoticed. You embody the heart of Fairy Tail, and I believe in you."
Amy took a deep breath, her cheeks flushing with a mix of pride and nervousness. "I won't let you down," she promised, her voice steadying.
Gray clapped me on the back, a proud grin on his face. "Looks like we're all in this together, huh?"
I grinned, my eyes filled with determination "Yeah, let's show them what FairyTail is made of !"
Heading back to the guild, everyone was buzzing with anticipation. Tomorrow was the final day, and anything could happen. The points we had today could be completely different by the end of tomorrow.
"Amy, you'll do great," I said to her as she walked next to me.
"I know!" she scolded. "But... I can't help but feel like I don't deserve my spot here. I'm only replacing Natsu or Gajeel..."
"Don't say that. You were picked by our founder Master. That's something I would brag about for a while," I replied with a smile, hearing a slight chuckle escape her lips.
"Yeah, I know you would," she admitted.
As we stepped inside the inn, we saw Mavis waiting for us, motioning for us to come closer.
"Okay team, I've got a plan. Are you ready to follow it?" she asked, smiling brightly. Everyone nodded in agreement, ready to give their all for the final day.
Mavis laid out the strategy, her eyes gleaming with determination. "Our success depends on each of you playing to your strengths." she started, giving every single explanation we needed to respect the plan. The more it went, the more gasps were heard within the team.
"Good," Mavis nodded, satisfied. "Remember, we fight as one. We win as one. Tomorrow, we will show everyone what Fairy Tail is truly made of."
"Yeah!" we all cheered in unison, before splitting up.
"Well, guess we're finally gonna team up tomorrow," I said.
"Right, we never really fought together," pointed out Amy. "I've known you since I was nearly born, but I can't remember a time fighting with you. But I do remember that night on the beach when I took mad pleasure hitting you as hard as I could," she smirked, poking my cheek.
"Yeah yeah, whatever... Let's just do our best," I shot back, high-fiving her.
Amy's eyes sparkled with excitement and determination. "You bet we will. Fairy Tail is counting on us, and we're gonna give it everything we've got."
As we headed back to our rooms, the energy between us was palpable. This was more than just a fight; it was a chance to prove ourselves and make our guild proud.
"See you bright and early, Amy," I said as we reached our doors.
"Good night, Kalen. Let's kick some ass tomorrow," she replied with a confident smile.
On those words, our doors closed, getting some rest before the final day.
"Welcome everyone to the final day of our Grand Magic Games!" roared the announcer. "It's also time for us to discover the new Fairy Tail team!"
On his words, we took our first step towards the bright exit. My heart was pounding, and I could swear I heard Amy's heart as well.
"Please welcome, Gray Fullbuster! Erza Scarlet! Laxus Dreyar! Kalen Ryker, and Amy Skyward!" he announced, the crowd going completely insane as we finally took our first steps into the arena.
"It's your time, kids," whispered Macao from the balcony. "It's your time to show the world."
After finally stopping next to the other teams, we listened to the rules. As planned, it was a team deathmatch, each member worth 1 point, and the leader worth 5. This was the final event, but also the most important one, as anyone could just beam through it and score a ridiculous amount of points.
"Remember the founder's master's plan," said Erza. "Just follow it, and win. Give them hell," she added, her voice burning with determination as we all gave an understanding nod.
Gray cracked his knuckles, a confident smirk on his face. "Let's show them"
The announcer's voice boomed through the arena. "Let the final event begin!"
As the signal was given, every team was teleported to a random area, everyone springing into action. Except for us.
After a while, two teams were already out, allowing a few others to gather points. "Wait... Fairy Tail hasn't moved yet!" announced the commentator, as all eyes turned to our lacrima screen, observing the perfect line we created. We all closed our eyes, knowing full well our moment hadn't come yet. "Just stick to the plan..." I said to myself.
A few minutes later, Erza finally opened her eyes.
"It's time!" yelled Mavis. "Operation Fairy Star, launch!"
"Let's go !" we all roared, finally jumping into the chaos spreading everywhere through the city. We all knew where to go, and who we will be facing. And just like that, Gray found Rufus, Laxus met Rogue, followed by me, Erza engaged against Kagura, while Amy was still running, her meeting point being across the city.
My mission was simple: Assist Laxus against Rogue so he could fight Jura with enough power, before joining Amy. However, I needed to take a detour, checking out for any other members I could swiftly take out for extra points. Mavis' orders were clear, and I just had to follow them.
As I skidded to a stop, finally joining my last detour spot, I looked around trying to sense anyone. But nothing.
"Area is cleared," I whispered, before raising my katana, sending a huge light signal in the sky.
A few of them smiled, including Mavis. "Kalen didn't come across anyone. I kinda expected that," she said before yelling, "Kalen, you know what to do!"
I nodded, slightly hearing the instruction, before taking off. But as I was running towards Laxus' spot, the announcer's voice boomed, "And Laxus has demolished Rogue in a few minutes! This guy is a monster!" I heard before swiftly skidding to a stop, catching my breath. "Mavis, Laxus, he's one of the best Sabertooth mages..." I whispered, as I quickly used my brain. "Right, Amy," I realized, sprinting the opposite way.
"Kalen is gonna be dead before he even meets someone," grimaced Wendy. "He's running like a rabbit through the entire city."
"And Gray Fullbuster is victorious over Rufus! Another point for Fairy Tail!" roared the announcer.
"Looks like they're all on a rampage," I smiled, sweat dripping from running so much, as I quickly increased the pace.
I was close. Only a few streets... "I have no words! Jura the monster has been defeated by yet another monster, Laxus Dreyar!" I heard, as a huge column of electricity erupted from one of the nearby plazas, sending a shiver down my spine. "Remember to never get in his way..." I said to myself, my focus swiftly shifting as I heard a groan of pain nearby.
Amy was facing Chelia, both of them on one knee, panting. However, Chelia was the first to recover, sending a powerful blast of black feathers her way. Amy braced for impact, her arms in an X pattern.
"Solar Shield," I called out, a dome of light appearing in front of her, deviating the incoming attack. "Kalen?" she asked, turning around. "Flare Slash!" I yelled, sending a blast of light towards Chelia, quickly seeing my attack being frozen and stopped, as Lyon appeared next to her.
"And Kalen, joining Amy, is now engaging against Chelia, supported by Lyon! This is a 2v2 match!" yelled the announcer.
"Just in time," Amy said, grasping my hand as I pulled her up. "Sorry for being late, Laxus didn't need any help..." I scratched my head, feeling a bit sheepish.
"Well, isn't that my little flower," Lyon greeted with a smile.
"I'm sorry, Lyon," Amy shot back with a grin, "but today, I'm no flower, I'm a thorn! Vine Whip!" She yelled, sending out two thorny vines that lashed towards both Lyon and Chelia.
"Ice Make: Eagle!" Lyon countered, conjuring a barrage of ice eagles that shattered the vines mid-air.
We all stood, eyes locked, tension crackling in the air as we waited for someone to make the first move. "Time to get serious," I declared, raising my katana to eye level. "Let's go, Ray... Activate, Rising Sun!" A golden glow enveloped me, magic swirling like flames, reminiscent of my showdown with Raven Tail.
"I was waiting for that," Lyon said, smiling. "Chelia, let's go! Ice Make: Gorilla!" he summoned a massive ice gorilla.
"I'll handle this!" I shouted to Amy before lunging at the creature. "Blazing Edge!" I roared, my blade igniting with burning light energy. I slashed through the ice gorilla, its pieces scattering as I met Lyon's shocked gaze. I pointed my blade at him, grinning. "Ice can't withstand my burning sun."
"Kalen, I'll leave Lyon to you. I've got your back!" Amy said, taking an offensive stance. I nodded in response.
"Ice Make: Eagles!" Lyon yelled, sending another barrage of ice projectiles at me. I dodged swiftly, slicing through the eagles with precise strikes. But then, I saw a storm of black feathers hurtling towards me. Trusting Amy to have my back, I pressed forward towards Lyon.
"Sakura Barrage!" Amy's voice rang out behind me, a smile tugging at my lips. She had it under control. The explosion from Chelia's spell and Amy's counter created a dust cloud, giving me the perfect cover. "Dawn's Detonation!" I slashed through Lyon with a single, powerful strike, the mark on his chest detonating and sending him flying with a pained groan.
"Lyon!" Chelia cried out, giving Amy an opening. "Blooming Strike!" Amy unleashed a burst of flowers and vines, hitting Chelia square in the chest.
I rushed back to Amy's side, watching the Lamia Scale mages struggle to get up. "I'm not done yet... Ice Make: Dragon!" Lyon's recovery was fast, catching us off guard as an ice dragon exploded towards us. I was thrown back by the blast, groaning as I got back to my feet. Chelia's god slaying magic had already healed their wounds.
"Damn, I forgot about that," I spat, frustration bubbling up.
"You good, Kal'?" Amy asked..
"Yeah, I'm fine."
"Lyon, you need to attack Amy as well!" Chelia scolded.
"I can't. I'll leave that to you," Lyon replied bluntly.
Suddenly, the ground shook beneath us, and we struggled to stay upright. "What the hell..." I gasped, bracing myself against the tremors.
"What... What is happening !" roared the announcer. "That was.. beyond powerful ! And... Yes ! Erza Scarlet is still standing ! She has defeated Minerva, scoring 5 points for FairyTail !"
We both smiled, though sweating, knowing this could only be Titania going all out.
Looking back at Amy, I asked "Hey, you trust me ?" as she watched me with a near anger expression
"What the hell is that question ! Of course I do !"
"Then you know what to do, just follow my lead. They have weaker teamwork than us." I added, receiving a determined nod from her.
I lunged forward, running towards them. "Not twice !" roared Lyon, preparing his spell, eyes widening as I swiftly came to a stop, raising my blade in front of me. "Radiant Burst !" I yelled, sending out bursts of light, completely blinding our enemies.
"Amy !" I yelled, as she took position behind me.
She began a graceful dance, spinning on her toes with her arms floating elegantly. "Graceful Sakura, dance upon the wind, and answer my call! Sakura Storm!" she yelled. A column of pink petals swirled around her as she danced, gathering more and more power.
I watched, completely mesmerized by the power emanating from her, before swiftly refocusing on myself.
I smiled, knowing it was my turn. Standing in front of her, I called out, "Morning Blaze!" My movements became a flowing dance of light, each strike creating an arc of burning light, forming a wide circle of solar energy before us.
I abruptly came to a stop, crouching low. "Amy!" I called. She halted her dance, a smile lighting up her face.
Amy thrust her arms forward, sending the gathered petal storm straight towards Lyon and Chelia. The pink petals merged with my light, forming a massive wave of pink and golden glowing sharp petals. "Unison Raid! Blooming Dawn!" we shouted together. Amy stood behind me, arms pointed forward, as I crouched under her, my blade glowing with energy, enhancing her spell.
"Unison Raid?" gasped Makarov. "At their age?"
Mavis chuckled. "You should give these kids more space to develop their creativity. They are full of resources and have a hidden potential many mages could only dream of."
Everyone on the balcony was mesmerized by our teamwork.
"They fight with their hearts. They don't fight for dark reasons; they're giving everything for themselves, for their friends, for you," Mavis smiled. "Keep your eyes open and admire the power of Fairy Tail!"
Both Amy and I roared as our combined spell struck Lyon and Chelia. Their screams of pain echoed as they were blown away, crashing to the ground with a loud noise. There was no way they would get up. Amy was panting, hands on her knees, while I collapsed, using my blade to stay upright, breathing heavily, releasing my Rising Sun form.
"This... stage thing... is more magic demanding than I thought..." I panted, feeling a sudden weight on my back as Amy jumped on me, screaming, "We made it, Kalen! We won!" she beamed.
I laughed, "Yeah, we did it." I shot a determined look at Amy, worn out but with a wide smile painting her face.
"And Kalen and Amy have come out victorious! Fairy Tail is making a bloodbath, taking out every single member they come across!" roared the announcer.
Gray, Laxus, and Erza, still in bad shape but slowly recovering, smiled.
"That's it, Kalen, you tell them," grinned Gray.
"Nice work, Amy," whispered Laxus, closing his eyes.
However, before we could even think of recovering, magic exploded in the sky, marking the clouds with the white Sabertooth symbol.
"Sting..." I growled. "He's still here. He was just waiting for us to be completely out of magic."
"Kalen..." cried Amy. "Look at the scoreboard." My eyes met the floating panel with the team's points, widening in shock. "No... it can't be."
"If Sting manages to take out the entire Fairy Tail team, Sabertooth will win!" beamed the announcer. "And looking at the state of everyone, this could likely happen!"
Sting was waiting for us in a small plaza, standing in front of a fountain. We all struggled to get there—Laxus was wounded everywhere, Gray beaten up badly by Rufus, Erza barely able to stand, and I was holding Amy under the shoulder, helping her walk.
"Look at you, Fairy Tail... a single push could make you fall," smirked Sting. "I'm gonna beat you all and win these games so I can see Lector again!" he laughed.
"Fine, wanna fight? Let's go. I'll be first," announced Gray.
Sting nodded, then grinned wickedly. "No, you should all come at once. It'll be even more fun," he said, entering his Drive state.
But as his eyes met ours, his magic faltered. We stood tall, facing him, ready to take on any attack he sent our way. "How... can you still be..." he muttered, collapsing to his knees. "I... I can't... I surrender..."
The silence that fell upon the entire city was deafening, until the announcer broke it. "Sting surrendered ! Fairy Tail scores another point... Becoming our new champions!" he yelled into the speakers. The crowd erupted in wild cheers, fireworks painting the sky in vibrant colors. The announcer's voice boomed one last time, "The games are over! Please welcome our new Fiore champions, FAIRY TAIL!"
The balcony filled with tears of joy. Macao took Romeo in a tight embrace. Wendy, Levy, Jett, Droy, Cana, Juvia, Lisanna, and all the others flooded the place with tears of happiness.
Completely exhausted, we all managed a last smile, our gazes locked on the dark night sky above us.
"We did it..." I whispered, Amy resting her head on my shoulder. "Yes, we did it, Kalen... We won together," she softly added.
Erza stood tall, approaching Sting. "I think someone is waiting for you, Sting," she said gently, pointing behind her to where Milliana stood, holding a maroon-furred cat in her arms.
"Lector!" yelled Sting, leaping towards him and taking the Exceed in a warm embrace. "Lector..."
We all watched with heartwarming eyes, when Gray noted, "This is incredible. You can hear the crowd from here."
"Indeed, we can be proud of ourselves," added Erza. "Everyone is going to be so happy," she added with a smile.
"Can't deny it, without that crazy Salamander, the ambiance is slightly calmer," teased Laxus.
"Has anyone seen the signal ?" asked Amy ?
"A signal ? What signal ?" I asked in unison with Sting, both of us having no clue what they were talking about.
"Speaking of Natsu, where is he?" he added, still holding his Exceed tightly, our faces hardening at his words.
A/N : Done ! I hope you liked it, please let me know in the review section. Next chapter will be another action packed one, before we finally end with a cute little 10th chapter.
Until the, see ya !
.Ney.