A new day began in Magnolia City, and with it, the sun illuminated the whole city with a mild and clear weather with a pleasant temperature, not too hot to wear light clothes and not too cold to wear heavier outfits.

Three people were walking near the shore, entering the nearby forest while talking to each other.

-Why do they make us get up so early?-Lucy complained, stretching her limbs to shake off the sleep she felt.

-Because you agreed to see this yesterday, when Natsu mentioned it to you. Im really surprised you didn't notice he left early-Gray replied.

-To be honest, I heard a knock at the door, but I was so tired to attend it-The celestial mage admitted.

-Natsu can get up early if he wants to, though it's a miracle. Someone always had to force him to do it-Erza commented.

-The most surprising thing is to know that other than you can stop Natsu's nonsense-Lucy added, looking at his friend.

-A lot of people say the same thing, Natsu is like a dog that needs to be trained, but only if the dog were bigger and stupider-Gray added with a smirk.

-Don't let Natsu hear you say that, I don't want to put up with your fights today-Lucy sighed.

-Natsu is going to argue no matter what. He hates getting up early and even more when he's forced to…..poor Derek, I can't even imagine how he's dealing with it now-Gray was preparing himself mentally to put a stop to Natsu's bullshit sooner or later.

In the distance, the trio saw two more figures next to an exceed flying around. They knew they were their friends, so they approached to listen to their conversation.

Derek was overwhelmed as he finished boiling the water for his morning drink. He wasn't overwhelmed that his friends hadn't arrived yet, as it was still several minutes before the appointed time and he didn't mind waiting. His frustration came from putting up with his friend's complaints for a full hour.

Natsu raised his hand exaggeratedly to complain, again-I still don't understand why we came so far from the guild for this-

Derek sighed heavily at his friend's complaint, the hundredth in less than an hour-Because we don't want any collateral damage to the guild or the city now that it's all set up for the festival. Also, I don't want Erza chasing us all over the city for ruining the guild design-

-But this is an exaggeration. We walk nearly an hour to get here-Natsu pointed out.

-Goddammit Natsu, when did you become such a crying baby?-Derek shook his head at his friend's attitude, before looking at the Exceed-Happy, didn't you give Natsu the medicine on his schedule?-

Happy laughed at the implication of those words.

-I'm not an animal, damn it!-Natsu shouted angrily and crossed his arms.

-You act like one-Derek commented before he saw that the water was ready. With that, he pulled out a small cup to serve hot chocolate. A smile formed on her lips as the sweet taste of that drink run down her throat-Ah…with this, I can put up with Natsu's complaints-

-They are not complaints, they are observations-Said Natsu, averting his friend's eyes.

-It's the same thing, you idiot. You are acting worse than Erza on the day we had the sleepover at my old house, do you remember that?-Asked Derek, looking up at the sky and recalling the details of that day.

-The day when she convinced you to buy a strawberry cake and a ghost ate it?-Happy asked, laughing a little.

-Yes, she was hanging around my house for days seeking revenge against that "Ghost". It was fun to see her come out of nowhere with a vacuum clearner and look at every part of my house. Although she never knew that famous "Ghost" was me-Derek laughed at that memory of his friends attitude-I don't even want to imagine what she would have done to me if she had found out that I ate his strawberry cake that night-

Derek looked down to see his friend's reaction. He expected them to be smiling or laughing slightly for knowing the truth of what had happened, but what he saw confused him. Natsu was looking fearfully at something behind him while Happy hugged his friend in fear. Both of them were wide-eyed with terror and they could not speak.

-Natsu, Happy, what's going on?-Asked Derek, confused by his friends actions.

When he heard the sound of someone's throat behind him, his soul left his body out of fear, the air became so icy that the hot chocolate immediately became cold and Derek started to sweat nervously.

He recognized the sound.

Slowly, he turned his head and the first thing he saw was Lucy looking fearfully at someone to her left. Then he saw Gray, who was shirtless, backing away in fear as he looked at the same spot.

Between them, Erza stood with her arms crossed and a smile that only indicated trouble for him, her expression indicating she was holding back all her anger at that moment.

-Oh, dear Derek, I always suspected that a ghost could not eat cakes, since they are not living creatures and, besides, any physical object would go thought it immediately-Erza said those words too calmly, even oceans would freeze and would make the most ferocious creatures in the world tremble with fear.

Derek dropped his cup and began to back away from her with erratic steps due to fear.

-E..Erza wait. I can explain what happened that day-Derek stammered nervously, putting his hand in front of his body in a protective gesture-You see…what happened was….I got hungry and I took the first thing I saw, which was your cake, I only ate a piece and I was going to tell you, but I couldn't hold on and I ate the rest before I knew it. Remember, that night was the first time I tasted alcohol and I was starving, it was an accident, I swear-

Lucy, Natsu, Happy and Gray grouped up behind Erza to get a better view of the show, and somehow, avoid being a collateral damage in all of this.

-What description shall we give in Dereks grave?-Happy asked casually.

-Here rests a friend who can't control his night appetite-Natsu jokes, making Happy laugh.

-Aren't you exaggerating all of this?-Lucy asked incredulously.

-Hide from Erza that you have a strawberry cake and you didnt share it and she will be disappointed in you. Ruin or eat her cake and she will chase you to the end of Earthland to beat you up. Hide it that you ate her cake and get ready for your funeral-Gray explained casually.

-This…happened more than once, hasn't it?-Lucy smacked her face with her hand. Natsu and Happy whistled innocently, but it was obvious they both had a story to tell.

-So…what do you say?-Asked Derek, tense from the silence that formed.

-Oh, dear Derek, of course I forgive you-Erza said without changing her terrified smile.

-Eh?!-Was the common cry of everyone in the place. But Erza acted immediately and, in the blink of an eye, he drew his sword and placed it on his friend's neck. Everyone looked surprised at the speed with which she did it.

-I forgive you….when you get to the afterlife, you know what happens when someone hides from me what happened to my beloved cake. It's a culinary crime that I cannot forgive!-Said Erza raising her sword. Derek screamed in horror and moved just in time to dodge his friend's attack, even a few hairs were cut with surgical precision. This made him place his back against a tree, begging for mercy.

-Wait! We can work on something to pay you for that!-Derek said nervously.

-How do you expect to do that?-Erza asked coldly, stopping her attack for a moment.

-Well…you see, I've got it here-Derek quickly drew his dagger and pointed the blade upward-Powered: flashbang!-

An intense brightness invaded the place, causing everyone to cover their eyes due to the sudden pain.

After three minutes, the pain and the black spot in everyone's eyes began to subside until they could see again. However, they noticed that their friend was not in the surrounding area.

-Derek's running away trick, what a classic! Some things never change-Said Natsu laughing at that with Happy. Gray just shook his head for that, but with a small smile on his face and Lucy looked at her friend in confusion.

Erza tightened her grip on his sword even more angrily and looked down, following the footsteps Derek had left in his path, where they indicated that he had run towards the coast.

-Ten…nine…eight-Erza started a countdown, filling all her friends with fear because of the meaning of it. Lucy, however, did not understand what was going on.

-What…what is she doing?-Lucy whispered to Natsu.

-Erza starts a countdown when she gives seconds of advantage to someone who is running away from her, even if it won't make much difference..-Natsu replied. Lucy just waited for Erza to finish counting.

-Zero….-With that, Erza ran out of the place towards the coast with an incredible speed, it was so intense and sudden that even some leaves around her moved fiercely, creating a small tornado in the place.

-He is dead, isn't he?-Lucy asked.

-Yes-All replied immediately.

Meanwhile, on the shore.

Derek was desperately running trying to get as far away from Erza as possible. He was looking for somewhere to hide, but there was nothing to help him, his only option left if her friend reached him, would be to throw himself into the sea and try to swim as far as possible. Derek thanked himself for not carrying such heavy equipment right now.

-"Shit, shit, shit, shit, shit"-Derek thought desperately, constantly looking back to see if Erza was close. At one point, when he looked behind him again, he collided with something that knocked him to the ground. He massaged his head from the impact and when he looked up, his heart stopped.

Erza was in front of him with his arms crossed.

-This time, there will be no escape-She said, grabbing him by the shirt and lifting him up, putting his sword to his chest-Any last words, dear Derek?-

Derek mumbled some nonsense words, but his brain reacted when Erza raised her sword.

-Wait! I have a deal you can't refuse!-Derek shouted, stopping Erzas weapon centimeters from his chest. Erza, showing no emotion in her voice, spoke.

-I hope it's a good deal, Wallcroft-

-It is! Trust me! Just let me order my words first!-Derek let out a sigh to calm himself, and once he was ready, he continued-Remember that homemade strawberry cake I made for you on your second anniversary on the guild?-

Erza slowly nodded her head. She remembered that cake very well. That cake was baked by Derek, weeks after the mission when he escorted her father's murderer. It was a sincere gesture from him to show that it was not only demonstrated an apology for the fight they had when they first met, but also a genuine gesture of their desire to be friends.

The taste, the texture, the time and the ingredients dedicated to that cake….Erza had never tasted a cake as delicious as that one.

-Well….what if, not only to show that I am truly sorry for not having communicated with you for five years and to make compensation for the cake of that day, I make you two homemade strawberry cakes? Sure, I'm low on money right now, but when I have the resources, I'll buy the ingredients and deliver both cakes to you this month-Derek concluded his offer, praying that Erza would accept his offer.

Erza didn't hesitate so long to think about it. If it had been just one, she would have thought about it for much longer, but two? She knew that was something she should not refuse.

-Okay….but if I find out the cakes are a scam, you'll be sorry for born-Erza replied, carefully putting Derek down. When he felt the floor again, put a hand on his chest to feel his heartbeat, which was very altered.

-They are not a scam, I swear-Derek touched his mother's necklace with his left hand in a gesture of commitment. A gesture that reassured Erza, due to the fact that she knew that this gesture was being made by Derek as a deal he was going to honor.

-Now with this little problem solved, we'd better get back to the group to have our battle-Erza said with determination, taking Derek's hand before starting to walk back. Derek was surprised by this.

-Em…Erza, I know the way back, there's no need for this-Said Derek nervously.

-I can't risk it-She said simply.

Derek tried to speak again, but just sighed at Erzas determination and continued on his way.

With the rest of the group, Lucy just watched as Natsu and Gray were butting heads with each other while snarling like rabid dogs that were ready to fight at any moment.

The sight of that made her let out a heavy sigh.

-"I hope Erza will be back soon"-The celestial mage thought in despair. Happy, for his part, he was just enjoying a small fish while he ignored the chaos around him.

-Yummy!-Happy said as if nothing had happened and put an open book aside. Something that caught Lucy's attention and grabbed her.

Lucy flipped through the pages curiously, each page revealing the missions Happy had participated in with much details on it; Members who participated, their roles and who caused the most collateral damage.

Lucy was not surprised to read that Natsu had been the most destructive of the team. However, what caught the blonde's attention was to see a page dedicated to some arrows surrounding a position that was marked with a circle. The title indicated a simple word: "Strategy: bravo". Like military strategies.

-What is this, Happy?-Asked Lucy, pointing to the page in question.

-Oh, that? These are strategies we had as a team-Happy replied.

-Strategies? With Natsu and Gray on the same team?-Lucy asked in surprise.

-Although that rarely happened, it was thanks to Erza or Derek that they were able to follow specific orders-Said Happy, watching her friend as she continued reading.

-Why didn't they ever use it when we went on missions early?-Lucy asked.

-First, because Derek was in charge of doing these strategies. Second, because you are the rookie of the group, we didn't have a plan for that and third. You always went with Natsu, do you think he would use a strategy on his own?-Asked Happy. Receiving a sigh for Lucy for that.

-You're right, it's Natsu we're talking about-

-I heard that! How can you betray me like that, Happy!-Exclaimed Natsu, turning his head away from Gray to look at his partner, but Lucy and Happy ignored him.

-So….two versus two duels were common back then?-Lucy asked, seeing how in the book there were accounts of battles her team had in past times.

-Aye! Everyone agreed that it improved our coordination in combat-Happy replied.

-How did this coordination work as a team?-

-Well, Erza was the one who made the plans, although they were almost never executed back then because Natsu was there. But in general, she was the one who would go ahead of the group to fight multiple enemies or take care of the one that seemed more threatening. Natsu, being the way he is, would always go against whoever looked the most powerful, and I would go along with him. Gray used to hang back and provided support, as did Derek. But, sometimes, both of them would go to help us-Happy put her little paws on her chin, thinking of something that came to his mind-Natsu told me that before Erza joined to this team, Team "Elemental" was already known for it's good communication-

Lucy pondered about the teams name, she wondered how the name changed to what it was today-Why did they change the name from "Team Elemental" to "Natsu's team"?-

Happy laugh a little for that-Derek never admitted it, but it was thanks to him. In a sleepover, Natsu won a bet when he chose that name. At first, no one agreed with the name, but a bet is a bet. Over the time, the name stuck it because Natsu was the key to the team to stay together, thought before Derek left on his journey, we discussed changing the name a couple of times, but it never came to anything-

Lucy nodded her head at that, but she couldn't help but wonder what her role was in all of this. While she had already worked alongside the team on numerous missions, the return of a former member posed the question of how it would change the dynamics of everything. But one thing was certain, she was confident in the friendship they had.

-"I guess I'll have to wait to find out"-Lucy thought before noticing the return of Derek and Erza.

Natsu and Gray quickly noticed this and hugged like good friends, but they broke it off when they saw that Derek was unharmed.

-Are you still alive? I thought Erza had already buried you on the beach-Natsu jokes, approaching his friend.

-Unlike you, Natsu, I know how to use my mouth to speak-Derek replied, tapping his friend's shoulder in a friendly manner.

-Sure….sure, like the time a girl came up to you at a guild celebration and you said..-Natsu hadn't finished speaking when Derek punched him in the head, knocking him to the ground.

-Shut up you buffoon-Derek just sighed for that-You're going to remind me every damn time, aren't you?-

-It's my duty as a brother, isn't it?-

-I'm regretting calling you brother all these years-Said Derek, trying to sound serious, but he couldn't bring himself to give a smirk to his friend, who returned the gesture. Derek extended his right hand and with that, Natsu got up from the floor.

-Let's get this over with-Said Gray, heading to the right side of the small clearing where they were going to have their duel, along with Natsu. For their part, Erza and Derek stayed on the opposite side.

Once both teams were in position, everyone prepared for combat.

Derek put on his helmet before drawing his sword and pointing it at Gray. Natsu lit his fists on fire and adopted an offensive stance. Gray used his "Ice-maker" magic to form a battle axe in his hands.

-Re-equip-Said Erza. A flash surrounded her body and seconds later, she was equipped with her "Heaven's wheel armor". She raised her two swords and pointed them at Natsu.

Defining the initial clash.

-Happy, remind me of the rules, please-Said Derek, looking at the Exceed.

-You're out of the fight if blood is spilled, the last team standing wins-Happy replied, rules that never changed over the years since they had this kind of duel.

They all nodded enthusiastically at that and gave each other challenging looks. Excited that the fight was finally going to start.

-I waited many years to enjoy this again. Don't disappoint me, Derek-Said Natsu with a smile.

-I wont, Natsu. But I also hope you will be more wise than last time-Derek replied, also smiling back.

-Lucy, would you do the honors?-Happy asked her friend. She was surprised by that, but accepted anyway.

Lucy approached the center where both teams were standing and raised her hand, imitating master Makarovs action a few days ago.

-B…begin!-She exclaimed, dropping his hand.

Both teams didn't waste a second in going against each other, Lucy had to get out there quickly so as not to get caught in the crossfire.

-Stupid cat! You didn't tell me that would happen-Lucy complained to Happy, who ignored that complaint and just concentrated on watching the fight.

Derek went with his sword up and it didn't take him too long to attack Gray on his chest, who stop the attack with his battle axe and started a little duel of strength, with both friends trying to win this and swinging their weapons from one side to the other to see who could break the others defense. But the most remarkable thing about that moment was the smile on both of their faces, enjoying the moment and remembering old times.

Gray, having a heavier weapon than his friend, did not take long to move his weapon quickly to the other side, but before the ice mage could attack his friend, the swordsman crouched down, his body stretched backwards and the blade of the axe brushed his helmet, causing a few sparks. Derek, taking advantage of being on the ground, punched his friend's legs, causing him to lose his balance and he quickly recovered from the floor and tried to attack him since Gray was without defense with his axe away, but the ice mage moved quickly and dodged the edge of his friends centimeters away from his chest. Taking advantage of the momentum, Gray hit Derek in his chest with a punch, causing him to retreat because even if the breastplate absorbed some of the damage, it still caused him great pain.

In the other duel, Erza attacked Natsu with her swords with surprising speed, but Natsu, with his great agility, dodged every blow and even had the luxury of parrying some attacks with his burning hands while was trying to hit Erza with some punches or using his legs. In one attack, Natsu deflected Erzas blades with his fist and tried to attack her in her stomach, but Erza was quicker to dodge the attack and retreat to change her attack strategy.

Erza and Derek ended up side by side, when they realized this, they both looked at each other decisively.

-Alpha strategy?-Asked Derek, getting a positive nod from Erza.

-"Alpha strategy?-Lucy wondered, examining Happy's notebook and looking at the diagrams of that strategy mentioned, then she looked up to see what was going to happen.

Derek and Erza quickly advanced towards their friends, exchanging their positions swiftly and naturally, as if they had practiced that strategy for many months in advance.

Gray, attentive but puzzled by the speed at which both swordsmen were changing positions, was losing track of them. Natsu, for his part, was beginning to get dazed because of this.

-Stop moving like that! You're making me dizzy!-Natsu complained.

Erza and Derek continued to switch positions until they were within striking distance. Just when it looked like Erza was going to attack Gray and Derek was going to attack Natsu, they made one last surprise position change.

Gray stopped Derek's attack at the last second just as Natsu did with Erza. Seeing this, Derek and Erza changed positions again. Erza attacked first, with his right sword aimed to Natsu chest and the left one to Gray chest, but both friends blocked this. But there was nothing they could do when Derek took advantage of the opening and delivered a precise blow to his legs, inflicting a slight but effective wound.

The battle was over.

-The winners are: Erza and Derek!-Happy exclaimed, flying happily at that while Lucy watched in amazement the strategy executed, exactly as described in the notebook.

A textbook move.

-It was a good battle, although you both still lack coordination-Said Erza, extending her hand to help Natsu, while Derek did the same with Gray.

-Besides, you had to start moving when you saw us coming against you, unless you were planning to move at the last second. But that didn't happen because of your lack of communication-Derek added.

-Yeah, yeah, we know. But it's hard to fight with a deformed torch because it does not listen to reason-Gray muttered, causing Natsu to bump his head against him.

-What did you say, Frosty?-Growled Natsu and Gray did the same thing. Both of them are like rabid dogs again. But Erza stopped them with a single blow to their heads.

-They never change…-Derek commented as he shook his head-But whatever, it was a good quick battle, we should do it more often-

-Of course, now that you're back, we can go back to those routines, just don't be late like other times, or I'll come and get you-Erza said, her tone indicated something between joking and serious. Making Derek raise his hands in surrender very quickly in fear.

-I don't want to be dragged all over Magnolia by my ear….again-Derek said, massaging his left ear from the pain of that memory.

Natsu let out a laugh for that-That was epic! That day you fell asleep and Erza kicked you out of bed, then she took your ear and carried you with her while you were asking me for help-

Gray held his laugh, Happy burst out laughing, Erza gave a faint smile and Lucy covered her mouth with her hands to keep from laughing so loud. Derek, embarrassed, just looked away with a blush.

-That was all your fault! You convinced me to stay late to help you with some of your missions, asshole!-Derek accused before rushing against Natsu and punching him in his chest, knocking him back.

Lucy was worried about that, but before she could intervene, Erza put her hand out in front.

-No, leave them, look at their faces-Erza said with a small smile. Lucy, confused, looked at Natsu and Dereks faces and noticed that they were both smiling while fighting, and actually, the blows were not aggressive at all, but were rather relaxed and were testing each other's reflexes-Natsu has always been lighthearted and relaxed, but I haven't seen him as happily fighting as he is now in a long time-

-Let broken fuse and strawberry hair enjoy this little moment. Five years apart isn't easy for anyone-Said Gray, leading the group a little further as Natsu and Derek continued their fight while their laughter filled the air.

Lucy just stared at the duo with a smile, Erza was right: Natsu's fights were always about trying to beat his opponent and getting very excited about it, but now, he was more relaxed and happy, plus, a chuckle escaped him as he exchanged blows with his friend.

-"I hope your friend's return will help you with your pain, Natsu,"-Lucy thought, before following the rest of the group.

When the group reached a safe distance, they began to talk to each other.

-Instead of being here, I should be thinking about what to wear to win the contest, my rent depends on it-Said Lucy, her voice desperate for that.

Gray began to recall a conversation he had a couple of years ago about one of these events-Well, I've never attended these contests, but I remember something Derek told me when he visited the capital. He found one and entered to look inside. The contestants are dressed in unusual costumes and perform some magic tricks to persuade the judges-

A glimmer of hope lit up Lucy's eyes for those words-So….a magic show? That's something I can do, but what did he mean by "unusual costumes"?-

-I have no idea-Gray shrugged indifferently-I just remembered him blushing in a big way and quickly changing the subject, if I had to guess, Id say they were dressed provocatively-

His friends words caught the attention of Lucy and Erza, both of them began to devise a plan to win the contest.

-Dressed like that? I think it's time to try on an outfit I've been saving for special occasions-Erza said, thinking of a certain maids dress she was saving.

Lucy stared at her in shock, processing what she said-D…dress? Wait…are you in it too?-

-Of course, it's a contest and no matter what it's about, I'm going for the win-Erza said determinedly. This made Lucy lower her head.

-And there goes my chance to pay the rent-She muttered sadly. Gray just shook his head at this, but a memory of a conversation he had with Master Makarov yesterday, just as he was leaving the guild and before meeting Lucy to go home flashed through his mind, a smile forming on his face as he found a way to tease Derek.

-Oh..you know-Gray's tone caught both girls attention-Master Makarov told me something yesterday that might interest you about the contest-

-What did he say?-Lucy asked.

-He decided that the winner of the contest will be chosen in two ways: By popular vote and by a single judge. Do you know who the judge is?-Gray let the mystery hang in the air-It's going to be Derek-

-Why him specifically?-Asked Erza, surprised at the master's choice.

-According to the old man, it's a form of punishment because Derek didn't communicate with the guild during his years away. Erza, you already know the attitude he gets when some girl approaches him in a flirtatious way. Master told me to keep this a secret, as it will be a surprise for tomorrow-

Titania remembered the incident with the girl and the microphone years ago, and a smile formed on her face as she knew how to win the contest in an easy way.

-I think…..I'll retire early-Erza said before running out of the place and heading to her room in Fairy Hills. Lucy also began to come up with a plan to win the contest thanks to his friend's information, but she needs Natsus help to know something.

-So tomorrow you're picking me up with Derek to go to the marketplace, right, Gray?-Asked Lucy, getting an affirmative nod from the ice wizard-Perfect, see you tomorrow then-

Lucy didn't waste time going to Natsu and Happy, and without a word, grabbed them both by the neck and dragged them to the town.

-Huh? Lucy? What are you doing?-Asked Natsu in confusion, but no fighting back.

-Shut up and follow me-Said Lucy as she continued draggin both. Derek just stared at that spectacle in confusion.

-What the hell just happened?-He said in a confused tone.

-"You don't know what you're going in for tomorrow"-Gray chuckled to himself for that, before approaching his friends-Don't worry, the girls had to go to get ready for the beauty contest. Surely Lucy is asking Natsu to help her pick out her magic or something like that-

-Are you sure they aren't in a relationship? Because you make it sound like they are…-Said Derek, looking at his friend curiously.

-You know how Natsu is, he's only interested in fighting and training. The day I see him in a relationship, I'll stop taking my clothes off completely for a whole day-Gray said, very sure in his words.

Derek looked at his friend, ready to respond, but noticed he was missing his shirt and pants, he sighed heavily for that-Gray, your clothes…again-

The ice wizard looked at his body and noticed that-Gah! Not again!-

After retrieving his clothes, both friends began walking back to Magnolia.

-What do you say we go to the guild for a few beers? I'm buying the first round-Derek proposed, but Gray had to decline the invitation.

-I'd like to, but I have to clean my house before the contest to get the day off-Gray lamented.

-For another day then-Derek raised his fist and Gray accepted his gesture, saying goodbye-Tomorrow at six o'clock, right?-

-Exactly, see you, Derek-With that, both friends went their separate ways.

Fairy Tail guild.

12:56.

Derek entered the guild and went straight to the bar, where he found Cana enjoying a barrel of beer as usual while Mirajane was cleaning some glasses.

He sat down on the spot before turning his gaze to the card mage.

-Cana-Derek said simply, Cana returned the greeting with a nod of her head before continuing to concentrate on her drink. Derek just smiled for that and lost in his thoughts, remembering a particular story of that place, invaded by nostalgia.

-"The time when Natsu tried to hit Gildarts with all his might and accidentally destroyed the entire bar and drinks. Poor guy, Cana chased him all over Magnolia for that. If I could erase one memory and bring it back, that would be it"-Derek let out a soft laugh for that. However, he was pulled out of his troughs when he heard the sound of a glass with lots of ice being placed near him. He looked up to see a large glass of mango juice and Mirajane smiling kindly at him.

-Wow, I didn't expect you to know what my favorite juice is, but I don't remember asking for it, Mirajane, though I'm not complaining at all-Derek commented intrigued

-Consider it a gesture of thanks for yesterday-Said Mirajane with a small smile, Derek returned it.

-That smile of yours indicates that something happened last night, didn't it?-Cana joked, stopping his beer drinking to look at Derek and Mirajane mischievously.

Derek just blushed at the implication while Mirajane only laughed softly.

-Damn it, Cana! Not now, please, I've only been here for a few days-Said Derek, looking away and increasing the girls laughter.

-It looks like you're still the same guy who can't talk to a girl, huh?-Cana asked. Moving closer to his comrade.

-You know me….some habits are hard to lose, like you and your drinking problem-Said Derek, making Cana only snorted in complicity-But, Mirajane, how do you know that mango juice is my favorite? Nobody knew it-

-Guess who was the one who told us about your dances when he had mango to make homemade juices in his old home, believing that no one saw him-Mirajane replied with a mischievous smile, while Cana just laughed at that.

Dereks eyes widened in embarrassment at that, he tried to say some excuse to deny those stories, but he only said some nonsenses words due to the memories of those dances and, knowing that the would guild knew about it, cause him a big blush on his face that made him lower his gaze.

-I curse you, Natsu. You and your big mouth…-Derek mumbled in embarrassment as he tried to hide his blush, but it was impossible.

Cana let out another laugh and ordered a beer for Derek, which Mirajane quickly served him.

-I hope you don't give up for a couple of beers, kid-Cana said as she took a swig from her barrel, Derek looked up to see the beer in front of him.

-Do you remember that promise, don't you? Well, don't worry, I've been through a lot of bars and learned a few tricks for this-Derek replied with a confident smile, before placing a couple of jewels on the table-Mirajane, can you please serve me some meat with this?-

-Of course! Now I bring you the best piece of meat we have, oh, and with lots of potatoes fries, another thing that Natsu said you liked very much-Mirajane said before heading towards the guilds kitchen.

-"Even if I wanted to, I can't be mad at him"-Derek thought, shaking his head but with a smile on his face-"Speaking of him, what's he doing right now?"-

At the same time, on the streets of Magnolia.

Lucy was still dragging Natsu through the streets while he and Happy were still not resisting.

-Lucy, I can walk on my own!-Natsu complained before Lucy let him go near a nearby alley.

-Natsu, I need your help for the contest-Said Lucy, drawing the attention of both her two friends.

-My help? With what?-Asked Natsu, confused.

-You know that the prize for winning the contest could cover many months of my rent, right?-Asked Lucy, something that Natsu responded with a nod-Well….I need you to give me your opinion on something….-

-If it's about the clothes you should wear, you're asking for help from the guy who doesn't change his clothes all year and barely washes them-Happy interjected, making Natsu look at him offended.

-Hey!-

-No, it's not about clothes….although you're right about that-Lucy realized that in all the months she'd been in the guild, Natsu had barely changed his clothes, she didn't want to know how often he washed them-A..anyway, what can you tell me about Derek's attitude when a woman approaches him?-

-Derek? What does he have to do with the contest?-Natsu asked in confusion, but deep inside him he felt a hint of annoyance that he couldn't quite explain what it was all about.

-Do you love him?-Happy teased, forming a heart with his tail. But he was quickly hit by Lucy, who sent him against a nearby wall.

-Shut up, cat! I barely know him!-Lucy exclaimed angrily before turning her attention to Natsu-Gray told me that Master Makarov had assigned Derek to be a judge for the contest-

Natsu nodded his head, not quite understanding what her friend was getting at-So…Do you want me to talk to him about making you win or something like that?-

-No! However, it wouldn't be a bad idea…-said Lucy, but quickly shook her head, because it would be very obvious that she cheated to win-No! Gray told me to keep it a secret!-

-Eh?-Happy and Natsu asked simultaneously.

-I need your help to know something. Gray mentioned that Derek gets nervous when a girl approaches him in a flirtatious manner. Do you have any anecdotes about that?-Lucy asked.

Natsu and Happy were puzzled at first, but as they thought about Lucy's words, a mischievous smile appeared on their faces.

-Gray….as hard as it is for me to say it, you're a freaking genius….I'll join you in staying in silent about it-Said Natsu mischievously, rubbing his hands together conspiratorially, a gesture that Happy mimicked.

-Time for revenge-Said the Exceed.

Lucy quickly began to regret asking for their help, but she noticed how Natsu wrapped his right arm around her neck

-I have some anecdotes that will help you to win the contest, Lucy-Natsu laughed as he recalled some of them in his mind. Stories of his brother and some girls years ago-But first, you should go shopping for new clothes. I know my brother is….attracted to certain casual clothes-

Lucys eyes lit up when she heard that. Natsu began to tell certain personal anecdotes of his friend while laughing with them and Happy accompanies those laughs.

Back to the guild.

-Damn it, Cana! This isn't a competition you know?-Derek said, half dizzy after drinking eight bottles of beer while Cana had drunk three full barrels, easily, five times the amount of alcohol the swordsman had consumed.

-You can improve your stamina, but you're still the same kid who cant handle more than a couple of beers-Cana laughed.

-With your experience as an alcoholic, it's hard to beat you-Murmured Derek angrily, but it was clear enough for Cana to hear that, she smacked him lightly on the head.

-Did you say something, boy?-She asked with a smirk.

-Nothing…nothing at all-Derek replied with some pain while massaging his head.

-I think so-Cana got up from her seat and it was obvious that she was struggling to stay on her feet, something that indicated his state of intoxication-Well, Mirajane, add everything to my bill, I have to go and get ready for the contest, see you both-

The card magician left the place with great difficulty to walk.

Derek just shook his head at that, finishing the last beer he had and setting it aside, along with the rest of the bottles. He stood for a moment staring into space, trying to fight the dizziness he felt.

-You okay?-Mirajane asked him in a friendly tone as she offered him a glass of water.

-Yeah…yeah, I just can't get used to this dizziness. I never understand how Cana keeps drinking and knowing that tomorrow her head will hurt like hell-Said Derek, drinking the water quickly.

-It's Cana we're talking about, tomorrow it will be just as if nothing had happened-Mirajane commented with a smile.

-You're right…-Derek leaned his right arm on the bar table and dropped his head on it, sighing heavily.

-What's wrong?-Mirajane asked, noticing the concern in her friend's eyes.

-Nothing….it's just….I missed those unnecessary moments at the guild, they were a great way to distract between missions-Derek focused his gaze nowhere in specific on the roof-These five years away made me realize how much I missed this place, now I know everything that happened in the last year, it makes me feel guilty, especially for Natsu, you know? He considers me a brother, and I consider him one too….but I wasn't there when he needed me...-

Mirajaned looked at Derek with sympathy, she knew that alcohol brought out people's deepest feelings.

-You had no way of knowing what was going to happen-Mirajane said in a soft voice, catching Dereks attention-Lisanna's death….was a hard blow to all of us, especially to me, Elfman and Natsu-Mirajane had flashbacks of that fateful day. His little sisters smile even in her last moments and how she was disappearing slowly made his sadness invade her again, but she held back the tears.

-Mirajane….-Derek said in a whisper.

-Natsu was grieving for days, but he still visited and supported us in our grief, even though he knew I was not kind to him. He didn't care and continued to give us support. One day, we asked him why he was doing that, and you know what he said?-

Derek shook his head, waiting for the answer.

-The very idea of losing a loved one hurts more than any physical wound, because sentimental wounds, injuries in the heart, are the most difficult to heal and no one is free from that. That is why it is important to support whoever suffers from that, to let them know that they are not alone in their loss and to know they have someone to support them-Mirajane finished reciting Natsus exact words and looked into Derek's eyes, indicating that he was in deep memory because of it.

-"Those words….that day…"-Derek had a memory of that day. The day he told Natsu about his past and how, their short friendship became what it is today.

Family ties, despite not sharing blood.

-Natsu….-Dereks voice denoted his pride in him, he could be a jerk, an airhead and an idiot. But his support for other guild members was his greatest strength and everyone recognized that.

-Natsu, over the years, always mentioned how much he missed you. He was sad about the time you were away, but he knew it was a trip that would help you in a big way. Although he never lost hope that you would send a letter, he knew you were well and that you would come back-Mirajane just smiled at that.

Derek returned the smile, thanking Mirajane words.

-Enjoy your juice, Derek, you can ask me for more anytime you want, now I have to attend to other customers-Mirajane said, turning around.

-Thank you for your time, Mirajane, I really appreciate it-Derek expressed sincerely as the white haired mage nodded and went to the other side of the bar, attending to some mages who had recently arrived.

-"Natsu, I will talk to you after the festival to see if you have anything to release sentimentally, but I will be there for you, brother"-Derek touched his necklace, sealing that promise. After finishing his juice, he decided to spend the rest of the afternoon immersed in a book he had been reading. A good way to distract himself to make the next day come faster.

The next day.

Magnolia center.

5:40.

Derek just finished adjusting his accessories on his hips before leaving the hotel where he was staying. He headed to Grays house just as dawn was breaking. The chill air was in the streets so a scarf was more than welcome.

-"I shouldn't have stayed up so late reading that book, but the ending was worth it"-Derek thought as he turned a corner and saw his friends house in the distance. A modest two-story house of bluish color with white accents, a chimney on top and a few flowers adorning the entrance-"It's still the same house I knew years ago"-

Derek approached the front door and knocked it three times to signal his arrival. While he waited for Gray to come out, he leaned against the nearby wall and looked up at the night sky, which, gradually, was giving way to the first rays of the sun.

-Hello-A monotonous female voice sounded to Derek's right. He looked to his side and saw a blue-haired girl, wearing a blue and white cap with a suit of the same color, she had the guild logo near her chest in the shape of a medallion.

-What's up?-Derek asked politely before turning his eyes to the front. But after a few seconds, he realized who it was that girl-Ah!-Derek, terrified, ended up instinctively moving a couple of centimeters away from the girl-Y…you are Juvia from element four-

Juvia just looked at him with an indifferent look-Juvia used to belong to Phantom lord, but now she's a member of Fairy Tail-She explained, pointing to the guild emblem on her neck.

Derek looked at it for a few seconds before remembering the talk he had with his friends on the day they were all reunited. The stories of the war with Phantom Lord came to his mind.

-I…I see, sorry for my reaction, I still remember the stories that were told about you, I forgot that some of you are in the guild now-Derek apologized sincerely to the girl.

-Juvia accepts your apology, though she wonders who are you and what relationship you have with my beloved-Said the water mage.

-Y..yeah, sorry. I'm Derek Wallcroft, a member of the guild who came back after years away, and as for Gray, we're childhood friends-

-I'm Juvia, it's nice to meet a friend of my beloved-She said, before that name clicked in her head-Juvia thinks she hears something about you. Aren't you the person who said embarrassing things to a girl in front of a microphone?-

Derek stared at Juvia with a dead stare as a blush of embarrassment appeared on his face, he quickly looked away.

-Damn it, Gray, why do you always tell that incident?-Derek muttered, but Juvia managed to hear that, drawing a slight smile from her.

A few seconds later, Gray came out of his house wearing a red T-shirt with a black collar along with a black coat, blue jeans and black shoes, before he could greet his friend, he saw Juvia, which surprised him.

-Juvia? What are you doing here?-Gray asked in confusion.

-I came to wait for you, my beloved, to walk together to the market-Said Juvia, changing her cold attitude to a completely joyful, and before Gray could react. She hugged him very affectionately.

-Gah! We're not in a relationship dammit, get off me!-Said Gray, trying to break the hug, but failing.

Derek was uncomfortable with the affection shown by the couple. However, he could tell Gray was telling the truth about the two of them not being a couple, but that didn't stop him from deciding to make a vengeance against his friend for telling the story about the girl and the microphone. So he smiled before speaking.

-Gray, old friend, you would have told me you were going to the market with your girlfriend. I would have left you alone and we could have met there. Don't worry, I'm leaving right now-Derek got up and started to walk away. Juvia gave him a look of gratitude. But Gray didn't let him go more than two steps when he stopped him by grabbing his scarf and making him look into his eyes with visible anger.

-Derek, I swear to all the dragons if you leave me alone right now, I will tell the whole guild how you accidentally walked into the women's bathroom during one of our missions-Grays threat was real and Derek started sweating with fear about it. He knew what was going to happen if, not only the guild found out, but Erza as well.

-All right, all right, I'll stay-Said Derek with a heavy sigh. Juvia watched curiously.

-Juvia wants to know...-She didn't finish speaking when Derek, nervous and frightened, pushed her and Gray in the direction of Natsu's house.

-Maybe another day, now we must join to the others to get in line early, I don't want to lose my place-

-Derek….Natsu is at Lucy's house right now-Gray simply said, causing Derek to push the other way-And stop pushing me, damn it!-

-I would if you weren't a turtle, cheap sub-zero!-Replied Derek, which caused the two of them to put their heads together in a mild duel of strength.

-What did you call me, circus samurai?-Gray asked angrily.

-Are you deaf now, too?-

Juvia just listened to this discussion with a heavy sigh. Now, she not only has to put up with Gray and Natsus typical fights, but also, she has to put up with his former friend.

And the day was only a couple of minutes old.

Thirty minutes had passed since then, the trio was walking down Strawberry street along the canal that ran through the town. Derek and Gray were with a small smile talking while Juvia just listened with interest to the old stories of her beloved.

-...Erza's threat worked so well, Gray set a record of four hours without taking off his clothes, but that didn't last long when, at dinner, Gray showed up without his shirt and pants. Erza chased him all over Magnolia and didn't eat that night-Derek finished his testimony with a smile, causing Juvia to laugh slightly.

-Juvia didnt know Gray could get so fearful when Erza was so angry-

-To Gray credit, it is not only him. But all the guild fears Erzas fury, even when she was just a child-Said Derek, before being stopped by his friend's arm-Are you going for them?-

-Yeah, wait here. I'll go see if Natsu is awake, though I doubt it-Gray replied with a heavy sigh before he opened the door to Lucy's house and went upstairs.

Although Juvia wanted to accompany her lover, she decided to stay with Derek to ask them some questions she had. She noticed the particular interaction not only between both, but also of his team in general. Juvia wondered if that was the meaning of having friends, knowing how to resolve their differences in that way, and carrying on as if nothing had happened.

-Juvia has something in her mind-Said the water mage to Derek, who leaned against a wall of the place, crossing his arms before looking back at her.

-Shoot-

-How is it possible, despite the fact that you had an argument a short time ago, you and my beloved can talk as if nothing happened?-Juvia asked with curiosity in her voice.

Derek was surprised by the question, but he only let out a chuckle before looking up at the sky.

-Because we're friends, there's no other explanation-Derek replied before lowering his gaze to look at Juvia, who was confused-We've known each other for years, years of fights, years of arguments, but especially, years of friendship, years of trusting on each other. That's the real meaning of friendship, we accept our differences and we live with them, but in the end, we value our bonds more than anything else-

-But so much for insulting each other and carrying on as if nothing had happened?-Juvia was confused about that.

-As I said, it's years of friendship, did Gray ever tell you what he was like when he first came to the guild?-Derek asked, something that Juvia denied-Well…he just wanted to fight and become strong because of everything he had been through. In the beginning, he fought with every member of the guild to test his skills and especially, against me because I was his same age, to say….he kicked my ass is an overstatement, because he was more experienced and motivated in battle. Our frictions were not friendly at all, but slowly, he started to free up and be more open about his past. We trained more, we played games and went on missions together. Juvia, friendship is based on the trust that one feels in the other, knowing that one can believe in another person and if that person knows it too, it means that we know we are his friend, we can have our differences in many things, but we accept it, because we know that it only strengthens our bonds, to the point that we can insult each other but we know that. At the end of the day, they are just jokes, something that friends do because we are confident in each other-

Derek looked up at the sky again, getting lost in memories of the multiple missions he shared with Gray.

-Fairy tail is more than a guild. It's a place that cares about others, is a place that cares about others, even if some people don't show it at first glance, but deep down inside, everyone in the guild feels in the same way-The swordsman looked down again and stared at the floor, a small smile form in his face before he looked up the water mage-And Juvia, Gray loves ice cream and natural fruit juices that grow in cold climates, like blueberries, just for the record-

Juvia gave Derek a small smile for that, they were both silent waiting for his friends.

Meanwhile, Gray knocked softly on Lucy's bedroom door. A few seconds passed before Lucy appeared, but Gray was surprised to see her.

Lucy was wearing a light blue T-shirt with a blue skirt with details and white socks with sneakers of the same color. However, what was most remarkable about it all, was that her makeup made her beauty stand out much more and gave a generous view of her chest.

-Oh…Gray, good morning-Lucy stone showed a hint of disappointment, but she managed to hide it in a great way-Are we ready to go?-

-Sure, Juvia and Derek are downstairs, waiting for us-Gray replied, there he could see how Lucy mumbled excitedly about something. He was confused until he knew about Lucys plan and why she was dressed like that.

Gray smiled to himself.

-You know, Lucy? Derek would be very happy to talk to you for a moment. You could…influence his decision for the contest-Gray suggested, seeing Lucy's eyes light up at the idea. Without delay, the blonde went downstairs to join them.

Gray sighed, knowing that the hard part came right now. He entered her friends apartment and found Natsu and Happy still asleep. He just grunted, knowing how complicated it was going to make waking up that pair of lazy bastards.

Gray walked over and, with a single kick, sent them to the floor.

-Wake up already, you underdeveloped lizard!-Gray shouted, causing Natsu to sit up in an instant and bump against Gray's head.

-What is your problem, Nunu developed!-Replied Natsu and both friends began to snarl at each other like rabid dogs.

-That doesn't even make sense!-Gray replied.

Happy was still sleeping as if nothing was happening, his dream consisted of him hunting fish in the open air.

At the entrance, Juvia was lookin at the passing spectacle. Derek was blushing as much as he could while Lucy was in a position that revealed her body in a suggestive and flirtatious manner.

-Don't you think I should win the beauty contest, Derek?-Asked Lucy, using her charms and body to her advantage. Derek was trying to look away and leave the place, but Lucy wasn't letting him off easy, cutting him off provocatively.

-"Damn it, what's their deal now?"-Derek wondered as nervousness invaded his body, but to his luck, Natsu, Gray and Happy came down, with these two still arguing like a married couple close to divorce.

-Lave brain!-Gray shouted.

-Deformed ice-picker!-Natsu replied.

Derek had the strength to escape from Lucy and head towards his friends. Without a word, he smacked both of them off their heads in such a way that it sent their faces to the ground and stopped their argument.

-Stop arguing so early, have respect for the neighbors damn it!-After the scolding, Derek picked up his two friends and lined them up with great force-Now come on, were wasting valuable time!-

-What people are capable of for a piece of cake that doesn't even taste good-Natsu muttered to himself.

-Did you say something?-Derek asked with his dagger close to Natsus neck. Who was surprised to feel the blade so close from one moment to the other.

-No…nothing, it was just the wind I guess..-Natsu replied with fear in his voice.

-"It looks like someone spent too much time with Erza"-Gray thought, a bit terrified by his friends reaction. After that incident, the group continued on their way to the center of Magnolia.

Juvia just stood beside her beloved, still confused by the whole spectacle of what happened.

-Juvia doesn't understand why her rival in love acted like that-She exclaimed, catching Gray's attention.

-Right, you don't know. Derek will be the judge of the contest and he doesn't know that. Lucy wants to win at any cost and I told her that Derek tends to get very nervous when a girl comes up to flirt or act suggestively-Gray said, catching Juvias attention.

-So…if I want to win, I must act like that? Juvia would never betray you!-Said Juvia, hugging Gray very tightly.

-Gah! What's wrong with you now?!...Wait, win? You're in the contest too? Since when?-Gray asked, confused.

-Juvia found out that Lucy was going to participate, I can't lose to her-Said Juvia with conviction, letting go of the hug.

-If you want to have any chance, just make Derek nervous-Gray suggested, before being hugged by Juvia again.

-But that would be cheating-Said Juvia.

-We're not in a relationship, dammit!-Gray said as he tried to break the hug.

On the other hand, Natsu and Happy walked without talking to anyone, mostly because they were tired from waking up so early two days in a row, but this time, for something that is not fighting.

For his part, Derek was taking the lead to avoid getting close to Lucy, who grumbled for not taking full advantage of the opportunity she had to influence Derek's vote.

-"I'll figure something out for the contest," she thought, not giving up on her attempt to come in first place.

Three hours later.

-Almost three hours…fucking three hours I spent standing in line…..to get this! It was worth it every minute!-Exclaimed Derek as he lifted a piece of pomegranate pie between his hands, his excitement was very evident, as if he had found the most valuable treasure in the world. Soon after, he picked up a spoon that came next to the plastic plate and tasted a piece of it-I missed this so much!-

Tears of happiness slid down Dereks cheeks as he tasted that pie again and again. It didn't take long for him to start eating his pie faster. Next to him, Natsu was enjoying a triple beef sandwich with lettuce, mayonnaise and chili. Happy, meanwhile, was eating a fried fish with various condiments on top of it, which was pierced by a stick.

-"I just hope he doesn't get as intense as Erza when they ruin his cake"-Lucy thought with a blank face as she watched enjoy his pie…maybe a little too excitedly, on her side, was Gray who had just finished a mint ice cream and was watching his friends seriously due to the spectacle they were putting on since they looked like angry monkeys eating their food, only if monkeys had less manners. And Juvia, who saw this seriousness.

-Juvia thinks…your friends have a particular way of expressing themselves-Juvia commented.

-You haven't seen them with alcohol on them, they're even worse and especially, Derek. He starts dancing in a weird way while he sings a rare song-Gray whispered to the two mages. However, Derek heard that and angrily threw the spoon towards his friends head, who hit him directly-Damn it, Derek!-

-Stop telling embarrassing things about me in front of your girlfriend, idiot!-Derek replied as he approached his friend, but quickly remembered what he had in his hands, so he turned back and caught his brother's attention-Natsu, will you take care of this for a moment? Don't eat it-

-Sure, trust me-Natsu replied, lifting his right leg and making Derek leave his pie there. Once secured, Derek walked over to Gray and both bumped heads.

-Now…isn't that enough with the microphone incident, stupid ice pick?-Asked Derek in annoyance.

-I'll tell anyone anything I want, you deformed lamp post-Gray shouted.

-Not again….-Murmured Lucy before smacking her face with her hands. Juvia just stayed out of it.

-Are my beloved Gray and his friend really friends?-Juvia asked in confusion.

-Wow, I didn't think that other than Natsu, Gray had that type of competition with someone else-A male voice unfamiliar to Juvia and Derek rang througt the place.

Derek stopped fighting and Juvia turned around to see who it was. They met a man with black hair that had a straight fringe to the right, wearing a brown and red sweatshirt and white pants with black from the knees down.

-Warren! Good to see you again. How many weeks has it been?-Gray asked, turning his attention to the mage.

-Three weeks if I am not wrong, but it is not what I would call a long time. Anyway, I couldn't miss the harvest festival-The telepathy mage replies with a smile, before looking at Juvia and Derek-Who are the newcomers?-

-Juvia, nice to meet you-Said the water mage, ducking her head slightly.

-I'm not a newcomer, I'm just an old friend who returned after years away. I'm Derek Wallcroft-Said the swordsman, extending his right hand in greeting, which Warren returned.

-Oh, so the rumor about Master recruited people from Phantom lord is true, I'm glad to have you among us, Juvia-Warren said with a smile, bowing his head to the water mage slightly in greeting, before he look at Derek-And for you, I've heard a couple of rumors-

-I hope they're all good-Derek said in a joking tone.

-Many of them weren't that good, but what was repeated most often was that you were a good swordsman and the voice of reason to calm down Natsu-

-Fifty-fifty…..works for me-Derek responded with a slight smile.

Juvia looked around, surprised to see how the marketplace, in just a couple of hours, had filled up with people all over Fiore-I had heard that the festival was famous, but I didn't know it was so crowded like this-

-It was already famous for "Fantasy", but this year it looks like it's going to break attendance records for "Miss Fairy Tail" contest-Warren said with a small smile.

-Hopefully, with the contest, the master can reduce some of the damage we do on missions, even if only for a week-Said Derek with a smile and shaking his head for that.

-Speaking of the contest, what time were we supposed to be there to get ready?-Lucy looked at a store that sold wall clocks and realized it was 9:56-Ah! I'm late for the preparations! My rent!-

Lucy ran off to the guild while the rest of the group watched.

-Juvia is going as well-With that, the mage began to walk in a more relaxed way.

-We'd better follow them if we want to grab some good spots for the contest-Said Warren, leaving as well.

-We're not worried about that, we've already booked some good places-Gray said with a little smile, knowing what's going to happen-Derek, Natsu, Happy, it's time!-

-Roger that-Derek walked over to Natsu and took the pie out of his leg-Thanks for taking care of it-

-You're welcome-Said the Dragon Slayer. With that, the group started walking towards the guild.

Fairy Tail guild.

45 minutes later.

Natsu, Gray, Derek and Happy arrived at the guild and were surprised by the amount of people that were entering the place. A crowd that, with the remodeling the place had undergone, could accommodate that amount of people without any problems.

-Even arriving this early, it will take a while to get into the place-Said Derek, starting to move towards the main entrance. But Gray stopped him by putting his hand in front of him.

-No, we won't go that way, we'll go around the back-Said Gray, earning his friends approval.

-Lead the way-

The group entered through the main entrance but quickly took a detour to the back of the guild. Near the back entrance to the kitchen. Master Makarov was browsing through a magazine, but when he heard someone's footsteps, he quickly threw that into the trash can.

-Brats, you're just in time-The Master greeted.

-We couldn't miss this, old man-Said Gray.

-You bet. This quickly became popular and the number of people inside exceeded my expectations-Said Master Makarov, before looking at Derek-But I was more concerned about our star judge. Are you ready for this, brat?-

Derek was confused by that, thinking they were talking to someone else, he quickly looked around to see that there was no one behind him, but when he noticed Gray, Natsu and Happy holding back their laughter, he knew that something was very wrong.

-W…what do you mean, master? What do you mean about "Star judge"?-Derek asked nervously.

-Gray didn't tell you anything? No matter-The master just shook his head before dropping the bomb-You're going to be the head judge of the "Miss Fairy Tail" contest-

Derek was shocked by this and his mouth dropped open slightly. Meanwhile, Natsu and Happy's laughter rang loudly around the place.

-It's a joke, right? Tell me it's a joke!-Said Derek in horror.

-It is not a joke, brat. This should teach you a lesson to learn the address of the place that welcomed you all these years-Replied Master-"Although….this look more like a prize than a punishment looking at the list of the girls who are participating"-

-So that's why Lucy was acting like that….-Dereks shock turned to anger before he pointed at his friends-You! You dirty traitors!-

-S…sorry brother…when Lucy told us about it and that Gray wanted to keep it a secret, we could not help but join in-Said Natsu, clutching his stomach in laughter.

-Aye sir!-Happy replied in the same way.

-You'll see how funny it is when I kill you for this!-Derek drew his sword in a flash, but before he could go after his friends, Master Makarov intervened with his magic. He enlarged his right hand and, with a single blow, sent Derek face to the ground.

-Natsu, Happy, Gray. Come in and make yourselves comfortable, we have food in the kitchen if you want some, but don't eat it all-Said Master Makarov in a calm manner. The trio nodded their heads while they looked at Derek and continued to laugh.

-"Bunch of traitors, they're going to pay for this one way or another"-Derek thought while rising from the floors with a slight pain from the blow, before looking at the master in a begging way-Master! You can't do this to me! You know what happens in these contests and my situation about that!-

-You should correct that behavior of yours by forgetting the direction of the guild in case of emergency, and this is also your punishment for worrying everyone in those five years-said Master Makarov in a strict manner.

-But you said everything was fine the day I came back!-Derek complained.

-I may have expected it, but there is always room for improvement. My decision is final, go prepare the guidelines for the contest-Master Makarov's words were about to be discussed further by Derek, but he silenced him with a wave of his hand-Erza and the other girls already know that you are the judge, so escape is not a viable option. Mirajane was kind enough to leave your favorites sweets and juices for the contest, so don't take too long to get ready-

With that, Master Makarov entered the kitchen and left Derek alone. He only mumbled a few words before sighing in defeat.

-"I don't know what's worse, being a judge in this bullshit or facing Erza's wrath. Dammit, I want to live another day…for now"-Derek get up his gaze and look at the entrance of the kitchen-"How the fuck I'm not able to remember the address of this place….It was Sciliora 935…Wait, wasn't it Azalea 141? No no, that was my old house direction wasn't it?"-

Derek wasn't even close to guessing the guilds address, but he entered the place anyway, ready to face his punishment.

Autor nothes:

I reached almost half of the story translation with this. Wow, to be honest, I didn't expect that in so few chapters I would have more than 10 followers and favorites. Thank you all for that.

Regarding team strategies, I based both on the double attacks of Koei tecmo's "Fairy Tail" video game and the double attack of "Megaman X8". In addition to real strategies that have been used in war, in the end, the strategies are used on a daily basis and believe me, they are very useful, especially in latin america when you go down a dangerous street and you must have about 5 plans in case of emergency.

I already uploaded chapter 9 in Spanish which was quite long, so I want to focus on chapter 10 of that before continuing with this, since the next chapter will be quite long, I want to focus on finishing chapter 10 in Spanish and with that, I will take a break of four days before writing something again.

Without anything else to say, I'll see you in February for chapter 5.