Of their own accord

by TempestGhostCL

A mage returns to the Fairy Tail guild after years of absence. Five years of training seemed enough to believe he was up to his friends' standards; five years without communication he believed was enough for them not to worry; five years living in the shadows made him believe he was ready to face his greatest challenges in life. AU.

5. The battle of Fairy Tail, part I

The guild was buzzing with excited murmurs from both mages and other civilians. The idea of who was participating in the "Miss Fairy Tail" contest excited everyone. The crowd discussed who their favourite would be to win, and who the most beautiful mage

At one of the tables near the stage. Gray, Natsu, Happy and Elfman were waiting for the main event. But for the very first three, though, it was a chance to see their friend react nervously to the upcoming show.

-I understand that Elfman is here to support his sister, but why are you here?-Gray asked, pointing at Natsu.

-I came to support all of them, of course-Natsu replied, as if it was the most normal thing in the world while he crossed his arms and sat back in his chair.

Gray looked at him quizzically, but just nodded and turned his eyes back to the stage.

-That's what a real man does-Elfman commented, also with his arms folded and watching the stage.

A few seconds later, the lights in the guild dimmed, and the murmuring stopped, indicating that the competition was about to begin.

The lights came on again shortly after, but this time illuminating Max Alors, who would be leading the contest. For the occasion, he was dressed in a formal purple suit with a red bow tie, black pants and had a microphone in his right hand.

-Ladies and gentlemen, welcome! Welcome to the first edition of the battle of our beauties! Welcome to "Miss Fairy Tail"!-The presenter exclaimed enthusiastically. The audience erupted in applause and whistles of excitement-Let me introduce myself! I'm Max Alors and today I'll be your host! First, I'll explain the rules! Seven beautiful fairies from our guild will be competing for the title, and for that, they will take the stage where they will show us a sample of their magic and also make us fall in love with their charms! The winner will be decided based on two factors! The first is the popular vote! At the end of the contest, all the spectators will be able to vote for one of the ladies and that will be going to add points! The second factor will be for the score that our judge will give! And about that! Let's give a big round of applause to our judge today!-

Max pointed to a secluded table near the stage, which offered a privileged view of the contest. The lights aimed toward that table and showed Derek, who was without any of his accessories and his face denoted extreme discomfort with everything.

-Our judge today will be Derek Wallcroft! Let's give him a round of applause!-

Applause filled the place while Derek just wished the earth would swallow him up and not bring him back to the surface.

-"Please…kill me"-He thought, lowering his gaze to prevent everyone from seeing his blush. Then, he sighed heavily before looking up and mentally preparing himself for what was coming. Between this and facing Erza's wrath for disobeying the Master's orders... The choice was obvious.

The lights stopped focusing on Derek and refocused on Max.

-Now…let's move on to entry number one! This mage is an exotic beauty with an iron stomach for alcohol! This mage can read your future through cards! And also she is a great player of these! Give a round of applause to…-Max turned around and pointed towards Cana, who was coming out from behind the curtain-Cana Alberona!-

The audience erupted in applause as the brown-haired mage walked to the center of the stage, dressed in her typical clothes that she wore every day in the guild, although her face and walk denoted a confidence and a certain luxury for the public that admired this spectacle.

-Now it's time for you to amaze the audience with your magic-Said Max, giving all his space to Cana.

-With pleasure-Cana replied simply. She took out a deck of cards and threw them into the air, surrounding her body in a whirlwind of cards that completely hid her figure. After a few seconds, the cards fell to the floor and Cana appeared dressed in a red swimsuit with red details that left much to the imagination. This made the audience increase their presence with applause and whistles towards her. Cana, knowing she was winning over the audience, decided to walk around the stage showing off her figure. However, she knew she had to look at someone, so she locked her gaze on Derek. She got as close to him as possible and began modeling. The very sight of it made Derek blush greatly.

Even if he wanted to, he couldn't take his eyes off her because of his hormones.

-"I swear on my life that Natsu, Gray and Happy don't make it out of the guild alive today!"-He thought as he nervously wrote down the data on the guideline he had.

Gray, Elfman and many mages in the guild were in awe of their friends beauty right now. Natsu, for his part, was clapping enthusiastically in support of Cana.

-Why didn't I think of wearing a bathing suit…-Lucy muttered, watching the card mages presentation from the side of the stage, just like Erza.

-Not bad, but my costume is better-Murmured the red-haired mage, as she watched Cana return to the back of the stage.

-A round of applause for Cana!-Announced Max, and the audience was quickly to show their support-Now, entry number two! She may be the rookie in the guild, but her skills can easily compete with an S-Class wizard! Rain or shine, this woman will refresh the hearth in a big way! Give a round of applause for Juvia Lockser!-

Juvia advanced toward the stage, accompanied by cheers and clapping. Once in the center and under the lights, she pressed her hands together on her chest.

-I hope my feelings reach you, my beloved Gray!-Exclaimed the water mage, as she spread her hands in the air and a large wall of water surrounded her. Instantly, she appeared in a bluish swimsuit with white circles-Do you like what you see, my love?-

Everyone directly looked at Gray, who was flushed with embarrassment as he noticed how many mages were looking at him with complicated smiles.

-Were not a couple!-Gray shouted, his voice echoing throughout the guild.

-Another one using her sex appeal? This is supposed to be a magic competition-Lucy complained, while Erza just nodded her head.

-"Please don't make all the girls wear swimsuits, my brain can't take it"-Thought Derek, with a big blush on his face. At least he was less nervous because Juvia was only focused on his friend. Soon after, Juvia disappeared backstage.

-Your girlfriend really loves you that much, Jack Frost-Said Natsu mockingly, causing Gray to smack him upside his head with great force.

-Shut the fuck up, ash head! Nobody asked for your opinion!-Shouted Gray, that made both friends put their heads against each other and start a duel of strength, but they quickly stopped when they felt two gazes on them.

When they saw who it was, they saw Erza and Derek looking at them seriously. Both friends quickly separated and hugged each other as if they were the best friends in the guild, something that was enough to make them stop seeing them.

After Derek scored Juvia's points, he looked back toward the stage.

-A round of applause for Juvia!-The audience erupted at that. Max walks to the center of the stage to introduce the next contestants-Entry number three! The most popular model in the sorcerer magazine! The most popular woman in the guild and known throughout the kingdom! Let the audience be present when she appears!-

The stage light illuminated the curtain and, from it, Mirajane appeared, dressed in a simple red suit, she greeted the audience with confidence.

-Mirajane Strauss!-

The audience did not take a second to show their great support for the mage with applause and whistles of admiration, as well as chanting her name with enthusiasm.

-Thank you all for coming, dear audience. With my transformation magic, I will amaze you!-

The whole audience was looking forward to this. What costume would Mirajane wear for this occasion? Perhaps one that had never been in the sorcerer magazine? Perhaps one that she wore only for special events?

All that excitement was gone in a second when only three words came out of her mouth.

-Happy's head!-With that, his head transformed into the blue Exceed.

The silence that took over the place because of that was legendary, it could even compete perfectly with the white noise. This silence was broken shortly after by the laughter of Natsu and Happy.

-I don't think Mirajane fully understands the purpose of this contest-Gray commented, earning Elfman's approval.

Lucy and Erza smiled broadly at this. Mirajane's innocence would cost her first place and would be used by both of them.

-Now, Gajeel's head-Said Mirajane, transforming her head into the head of the metal Dragon Slayer.

-"Well, she's basically doing what the contest calls for….on part"-Derek thought, keeping track of the albino mage's points.

After a few seconds, Mirajane left the place, her head back to normal. The place was silent for a minute, until Max regained control of the situation.

-That was….unique-He cleared his throat before continuing-But let's move it! Entry number four! Someone who does not need introduction! Erza Scarlet!-

-This will be easy-Erza said confidently, before leaping to the center of the stage with a forward backflip using Lucy as a support.

-Hey!-The celestial mage complained.

Max stepped aside just in time for Erza to drop like a professional athlete in the middle of the stage. Applause and whistles began to inundate the guild again.

-"It looks like you've earned a good reputation, Erza, I'm so happy for you"-Derek thought with a smile.

-I hope you like the costume I have prepared for this occasion, re-equip!-With those words, a blinding light invaded Erza's body. A few seconds later, she appeared with a black maid outfit that covered almost all her body, the only parts that were of another color, in this case, white, were on her chest and sleeves.

The very sight of that increased the sound of the audience, which made Erza smile slightly, knowing that she had a great advantage against Lucy. The celestial mage, on the other hand, only sighed sadly, knowing how hard it would be to compete against that.

Gray, Elfman, Derek and even Natsu just watched their friend with their mouths open. It was undeniable how beautiful Erza looked right now and none of them had words for it.

Erza began to model around the stage on all sides, however, her main goal was to get closer to a certain friend. She locked her gaze on Derek and approached him, winking her right eye at him every time. This caused Derek to blush intensely and become very nervous, even more when she got close enough to model on his friends entire vision. Before she leave, Erza blew a kiss into the air in his direction and left with a smile on her face.

-"..."-Derek's brain had stopped working. His heart was racing and his blush was very evident. He was thankful that no light was shining on him at that moment so his embarrassment would not be visible. With a lot of strength, he was able to score Erza's points, but his shaking hand was proof of his current state.

-A round of applause for Erza!-Shouted Max, which the audience did not hesitate to do-Now! Let's go to entry number five! The little fairy beauty, intelligence and reading! This girl has an incredible memory! Levy Mcgarden!-

-Levy!-Jet and Droy shouted excitedly.

The blue-haired mage emerged from the curtain, wearing her usual guild attire. As she reached the center of the stage, she pulled a pencil from one of her pockets, ready to demonstrate her magic.

-Solid script: Iron, water, metal fire and earth!-With these words, letters appeared floating around the mage, representing each element she mentioned.

The audience let out only a sigh of surprise as they applauded and watched Levy disappear through the curtain.

-"Not bad…not at all"-Derek thought, noting her points.

-Let's hear the applause for Levy! Now let's go with entry number six! Don't you want to be in the crosshairs of this hot girl, because when you least expect it, you'll get a shot between your eyes! Let hear a round of applause for Bisca Moulin!-Max announced, pointing to the curtain.

From there, the green-haired sniper appeared wearing a purple bikini and with her rifle resting on her right shoulder. She raised her left hand, revealing four coins of another kingdom and tossed them into the air. She put her right eye to the gun sight and once the coins were together, she pulled the trigger.

The bullet went through the four coins in a clean shot and they fell into the snipers hand. She then showed them to the audience, who were amazed by that perfect shot. The room filled with applause as she winked at the audience with her left eye and retired.

-How cute!-Cried Alzack, with a smitten look on his face.

-A great shot by the best sniper in the guild-Said Max, which was verified by the audience's applause.

Derek scored her points and turned his attention to the stage for the last mage to perform. A feeling of relief ran through his body as he knew that the contest was over.

Lucy, for her part, was nervous knowing that she was going to the stage right now.

-"They all did something amazing or used their sex appeal….what could I do?"-Lucy through while she analyzes what magic routine performs, but she didn't have much time to think about that when Max spoke.

-Entry number seven! The guilds celestial mage! Despite the short time she's been here, she's already made a name for herself! She shines even brighter than her celestial spirits! Lucy Hea…!-Max was interrupted by the blonde mage's cry.

-Don't say my last name!-

-As I was saying…Lucy!-

With those words, Lucy walked out onto the stage as the other girls in the contest chatted amongst themselves, not noticing another girl approaching them with evil intentions.

Lucy walked to the center of the stage as she nervously waved nervously to the audience. Although she knew she had to use her body as the main tool to win the contest, as instructed by Gray, she also had to use her magic. Still, he locked his gaze on Derek and began to wink at him to earn some extra points. This action made the swordsman nervous and made Lucy happy, as she had him under her spell and just had to play around that.

Warn applause from the audience followed by an expectant silence as they awaited the mage routine.

-I uh…-Lucy, nervous at being the center of attention, quickly pulled herself together-I'm going to do a dance routine with my friends-She shouted as she pulled some pink pom-poms off, which conveniently no one she had seen. Before she could begin her show, a voice interrupted her.

-What a silly competition. If you really want the queen of the fairies, you want me!-From the right side of the stage, a mage came out. Hiding her face with a pink fan, she had light brown hair and wore a green suit that exposed her legs. Her glasses were also something that caught everyone's attention, they shone brighter than usual. She stopped a few centimeters to Lucy's right-If you want beauty, no one can compete with Evergreen, so this stupid contest is over!-

-Evergreen…what the hell is she doing here?-Asked Gray, surprised to see her. He knew something was wrong when all the lights suddenly came on.

-It means that Laxus and his team are back…-Said Elfman, looking around for the rest of the thunder Gods tribe.

-Who were those guys?-Asked Natsu innocently, causing Gray, Elfman and Happy to smack their faces with their hands or claws.

For his part, Master Makarov looked fearfully at Evergreen. Something in her body lenguaje told him that something was very wrong, as well as the rest of the mages.

-"Who is that girl? Evergreen? She doesn't show up in the participants"-Derek trough confused, checking the list of the participants several times. However, out of the corner of his eye, he could detect movement in the second floor of the guild. He looked up and noticed that on the right was a green-haired mage with a red suit and a "Rapier" sword at his side, with his arms crossed and leaning against a pillar observing everything in a cold manner. To the left, sitting on the railing, there was a person with a black suit and purple details, a knight helmet of a royal guard that covered the entire upper part of his face. It was the most remarkable thing about his appearance-"Who are those guys?"-
Gray noticed Derek looking at something on the second floor. He quickly turned his attention to what caught his friend's eye and saw the two mages-Fried….Bickslow…-

-Hey! What's your problem!? My rent is at risk!-Lucy shouted angrily as she glared at the mage who interrupted her routine. Gray, realizing what was about to happen to her friend, reacted quickly.

-Lucy! Don't look into her eyes!-He shouted, but it was too late.

Lucy, confused, locks her eyes on the mage. Evergreen just watched her with disdain and raised her glasses. A gold flash was the last thing Lucy saw before his world went dark. She turned into a stone statue with a shocked expression on her face.

-"What the fuck?"-Thought Derek, stunned by what had happened. He stood up quickly and tried to approach the stage while the audience was speechless at this, not understanding what was going on.

Max was the first to react.

-Everyone! Evacuate now!-His yell was enough to send the entire audience running out of the place.

-Evergreen! What is the meaning of all of this?!-Asked Master Makarov, stepping out of the crowd and approaching the stage.

-Heh, I'm just adding more excitement to this stupid contest, aren't I, girls?-Evergreen snapped her fingers and the curtain rose, revealing all the participants of the event turned to stone. Something that caused maximum shock in the guild.

-W…what?-Asked Derek in shock, stopping at the foot of the stage in surprise.

-She's Evergreen, from Laxus' team. She has the ability to turn people to stone if they look into her eyes-Gray explained, standing next to his friend along with Happy and Natsu.

-Sister!-Cried Elfman.

-Lucy!-Natsu shouted in the same way.

-Enough with this joke! Return them to the normal!-Demanded Master Makarov as he climbed the stage, but he could not climb more than two steps when the sound of a lightning invaded the environment. The master had to step back to avoid being hit by the shockwave.

The lightning ended up falling in the middle of the stage, and from it, Laxus appeared. Very close to Lucy's statue.

-Great….now this-Gray muttered as he looked at the electric mage.

-Hey, Fairy Tail, enjoying the new event?-Laxus scoffed.

-Laxus! What's the meaning of this?-Asked Master Makarov in surprise.

-Let's say….your contest and, in general, the festival, was being very boring, it was time for a change to be more entertaining, grandfather. So this will become a game-Laxus replied, looking at Master Makarov.

-This is not a game! Return the girls to normal!-Demanded Master Makarov, as the members of Fairy Tail surrounded the stage, ready to intervene at the slightest command.

-Heh, I'd calm down if I were you, grandfather, because you're no in a position to claim anything. Unless you want me to…-Laxus extended his left hand toward Lucy, causing many mages to hold his breath-The dear life of your friends suffer…an accident. They are my hostages, in case it wasn't clear-

-You're sick if you think our friends lives are a game, Laxus!-Derek shouted, trying to draw his dagger to attack the electric mage. However, Laxus was quicker and moved his right hand towards him.

Derek could do nothing when a high-powered bolt of lightning struck him in his chest, sending him meters backward. Shattering the table he had occupied as a judge just minutes ago.

-Derek!-Shouted Gray.

-Brother!-Shouted Natsu, both approaching their friend to help him.

-Just as reckless as your "brother", weakling-Laxus approaches Lucy and begins to dance with her-I hope this warning makes it clear that I'm deadly serious. I'll let this disrespect pass, Grandfather, but you need to control your lapdogs better-

The rest of the mages gave up on the idea of attacking Laxus. A few seconds later, Fried, Evergreen and Bickslow were standing next to Laxus.

-The game is simple, Fairy Tail. Let's see who is the strongest of all-Said Fried simply.

-It's time for real fun-Added Bickslow, as puppets floated around him repeating the word "Fun".

-The rules of the game are very simple! The last mage standing wins! And the battlefield will be Magnolia!-Laxus stopped dancing with Lucy and extended his right hand toward the exit of the guild, marking his excitement for what was to come.

Many mages were surprised by everything.

-If it was not clear to you, Fairy Tail. If you want your dear friends to return to normal, you must defeat us-Evergreen said confidently.

-Four of us against all of you. That should be easy, right?-Asked Bickslow with a cocky laugh.

-Easy, easy-said their floating figures.

-But there is also another important detail, one that makes the whole thing more exciting-Evergreen gave a smile that made everyone dread his next words-You have three hours to beat us or else…-

The dramatic pause was enough to get the idea.

-What?!-Was the general cry in a horrified tone.

-All you have to do is find us and the battle will begin, don't let us down, weaklings. The battle for Fairy Tail has begun!-Laxus laughed before a light enveloped him and his team. After a few seconds, the light faded, revealing that they had disappeared somewhere in the city.

The guild was still in shock as they absorbed what had happened.

Derek, for his part, was helped by Natsu and Gray to get back on his feet.

-Are you alright?-Asked Natsu, worried.

-I'm going to live…-Responded Derek, his voice denoting his confusion and shock at everything that happened, his gaze couldn't help but go to the statues of his friends.

-Everyone! We have to save my sister and the others!-Elfman was the first to react to everything, and with his shout, he brought all the mages back to reality. With renewed energy and ready to save their friends, they began to leave towards the city with the sole objective of finding Laxus and the rest of his team.

While the mages were leaving the site. Natsu, Gray, Happy, Derek, Alzack, Master Makarov and Reedus were still on site. Unable to move due to the shock of seeing their friends in stone and repeating Laxus' words over and over again in their minds.

-Bisca…-Alzacks tone detonated his anger for his friend's condition-I'm going to save you, I promise-Taking out his revolvers, he ran away from the guild, following the rest of his comrades.

-Lucy….Erza…-Murmured Natsu with concern for her friends, while Gray and Happy just looked at the statues of their friends.

-What are we going to do?-Asked Happy, worried about them.

-What the others are doing. Find Laxus, kick his ass and force him to release them all-Derek put on his accessories and put his fists together, ready to fight-Are you coming?-

-You don't need to ask-Gray said, also clenching his fists together and letting his ice magic emanate from them. Happy just gave a military salute while saying "Aye". Natsu, for his part, lit his fist on fire.

-I'm already fire up about it, now Laxus will see how much I've improved-

-Just like old times, huh?-Derek asked before looking towards the exit-Let's show Laxus and his team what happens when he messes with our friends-

The group of friends was about to leave when the voice of Master Makarov interrupted their departure.

-Brats, I'm coming with you. This madness must end right now-

-Whatever you want, old man!-Said Natsu as the rest continued on their way.

Derek, Happy and Gray had no trouble getting through the guild entrance. However, when Natsu and Master Makarov tried to pass, they were stopped by an invisible wall causing them to hit their noses and fall to the ground in pain. This caught the attention of the trio who had already passed the exit.

-What the hell?-Was the general shout from the group. Derek quickly approached Natsu and grabbed him by his scarf to try to pull him out by force.

-Natsu, this is no time for your bullshit!-Derek shouted as hepushed his brother out of the place, but the invisible wall wouldn't budge, and they could tell by the fact that Natsu's face was pressed against it.

-Augh! Stop! Something is holding me back!-Complained Natsu.

-Stop wasting time!-Said Gray, grabbing master Makarovs shoulders and trying to force him out as well, but the result was the same.

-It's some kind of wall-Said Master Makarov once Gray set him down. He reached out his hand and noticed the tangible of whatever it was that was preventing him from getting out-Ho..How is that possible?-

-There's no wall here, old man, this is no time for jokes-Gray proved his point as he walked through the door without a problem, as did Derek and Happy. Before anyone could say anything, the sound of something appearing above everyone caught their attention, they all looked up to see that there were purple characters saying something-What are those words?-

-Those…are Frieds runes-The Master muttered, but it was loud enough for everyone to hear. Then he began to read them-Those who are over eighty years old or who are statues will not be able to pass the guilds limits-

-Rune magic?-Asked Derek, worried about the answer he would receive from the Master.

-Exactly. It acts as a kind of barrier that, whoever is within those limits, is obliged to obey the rules. If you dont, you can't go out-Master Makarov explained seriously.

-That bastard….surely they knew you could leave the guild-Derek clenched his fists in anger, but in a matter of seconds, his face showed confusion-Wait a minute, if the runes say that people over eighty can't leave…Natsu, why are you lying about your age? How many birthdays have you skipped?-

-Do you see me as being over eighty years old?-Asked Natsu indignantly.

-Well, you take good care of yourself…compared to the master-Said Derek mockingly. Something that made Master Makarov look at him angrily.

-I'll let that comment pass, for now…-Murmured Master Makarov, before getting serious again-But those runes take a long time to write and to put in…Damn it, Laxus! He's been planning this for months!-

-Is there any way to break them?-Gray asked.

-None of us can. The only one who could is Levy, but we all know her current condition-The masters words made everyone look at her, and then refocused their attention on the runes-There runes are traps set for this purpose: to waste time or fight under certain conditions favorable to the one who sets them. They cannot be removed until the guilty removes them or a certain time limit is reached-

The group looked up at the timer on top of all the runes.

2:50:43.

And going down, slowly.

-Damn it…that means were on our own then-Derek looked at Gray and Happy, who returned the gesture-This really reduces our search options-

-Even if there are three of us, we'll find him-Gray clenched his fists in anger.

-The problem is, we don't know where he could be, those three hours could easily pass quickly if we go without a course-Said Derek.

-There is no time to think of a plan. The more time we spend here, the less time we have to save our friends-Gray said. Derek knew he was right, so he just sighed heavily.

-You're right. For once, we should be in Natsu mode and go without thinking-

-Hey!-Natsu shouted in offense. Happy just laughed-Shut up, cat!-

-But that as it may, we will show no mercy for your grandson, old man-Gray said seriously, something that met with Derek and Happy's approval. Master Makarov just nodded with grief at that.

-I know….just go and stop this madn…-Master Makarov had not finished speaking when the sound of the runes being transcribed caught his attention. They all looked up again to see more words appearing below the rules-Information update: Battle in progress. Jet vs Droy vs Alzack? What does that mean?-

-Wait….Jet vs Droy vs Alzack….the last mage standing…-Derek muttered, something that caught the attention of the whole group, until they opened their eyes in surprise when they realized what was going on-Bloody hell! Laxus is forcing us to fight each other!

-What?-Asked Master Makarov in horror and provoking another shock from the rest of the group.

-So this is all a contest of strength? What's the point if I don't participate?-Natsu lamented as he tried to come out with much more courage. However, seeing that he wasn't working, he stopped and pointed his pointer finger at Gray-Gray, fight me right now!-

This caused the rest of his friends to just smack their faces with their hands, unable to believe Natsus stupidity.

-You idiot!-Derek shouted at his friend and punch him in the head, sending his face to the floor-You can't think about that at a critical moment like this, fucking idiot!-

-Thank you, Derek-Said Master Makarov shaking his head at the Dragon Slayer attitude before noticing how the phrase of the runes changed-Jet vs Droy vs Alzack. Status: Alzack win. Jet and Droy out of combat….no, my childrens..-

More runes began to appear, announcing that more fights were in progress.

-Max vs Warren, Warren won. Vijeeter vs Nab, winner Nab. Laki eliminated four. Macao and Wakaba are fighting right now. The same runes that must have locked up the master and Natsu must be in the entire city. Only one leaves the battle-Said Happy, his voice indicating that he was still processing all of this.

Gray turned his gaze towards the city and saw clouds of smoke coming from different places. Natsu was still trying to get out of the guild to join the fight. Happy was still watching as more and more battles were being updated every second. Master Makarov watched in horror at everything that was going on, both in the city and in the rune scripts. Derek, for his part, was looking at the girls seriously.

The ice mage noted this-Something on your mind?-

-This complicates everything even more….-Derek crossed his arms and looked at the city-How can we avoid fighting with each other in our search?

-If the runes activate when a group of mages is near... it means that they must have a certain rank to activate. Brats. The best thing is, if you go into town, you need to be a few minutes away from each other. I'm sure that the runes are not selecting the battles, they are random-Said Master Makarov, closing his eyes thinking hard about that plan, until he opened a few second laters-Your priority is to defeat Laxus, but also if you meet the rest of his team, you must defeat them. As much as I hate to admit it, brute force is our only option right now-

-Laxus won't get that far, old man. He is still a member of Fairy Tail and I know he cares for everyone in his own way-Said Natsu, but everyone could detect some doubt in his voice.

-"Laxus won't make it that far? You still consider him part of the guild after all? Natsu…"-Master Makarov thought, looking admiringly at the Dragon Slayer with admiration in his words.

-"I admire your optimism in him, Natsu"-Derek thought, before turning back towards the town-Where could they be?-

-Right now, anywhere in the city. Do not forget also that there are other mages with the same goal. Remember, they are all enemies of each other-Master Makarov looked at the chronometer and saw the time remaining.

2:44:20.

-We must not waste any more time with unnecessary chatter-The master voice turn serious-Gray, Derek, you will each go around the east or west side of the city to find Laxus and any of his team. Remember, you're on your own out there-

-We understand, master-Derek looked at his friend-Gray, do you have any communication lacrima with you right now?-

Gray shook his head at that.

-Damn it, that limits our communication, do you still know how to make flares?-

-Always-

-Excellent, we will use it to tell when we found Laxus, but only him, understood?-

-Roger that, but remember that there is also the rest of his team. Even if they can't match Laxus in power and strength, they are still a threat-Gray said.

-Shit, you right, what can you tell me about them?-Derek asked the group in general.

-Evergreen, the one who turned our friends to stone, her magic consists of fast attacks, explosions and flying around. Bickslow, the one with the helmet, uses "Seith" magic. Fried, the one with the green hair, uses runes and is also a skilled swordsman. Of those three, Fried is the strongest-Replied master Makarov.

Derek looked down at that answer, analyzing every word and thinking about what strategy to use to confront each one. However, he raised his gaze and noticed the statues of her friends, more specifically, in Erza.

-This doesn't look good with Erza out of action. But hey, the elemental team has faces worse challenges-Said Derek, raising the spirits of the rest of the group a little bit-Gray, you already heard the master's plan, go through the west side of the town. I'll wait ten minutes and go through the east side-

-Understood-Gray said, turning around and facing the city, ready to leave. But before leaving, he took one last look at the chronometer.

2:41:34.

Remaining mages: 49.

-More than half have already fallen…-He muttered.

-The guild, and especially, our friends, are counting on you-Said master Makarov, making Derek and Gray nod their heads because of the responsibility on their shoulders.

-Gray-Natsu's voice caught everyone's attention-Don't lose, cold chest. Because when I get out of here, I'm going to face you to see who's still standing, so you are forbidden to lose-

-Easy, strawberry hair, that's not in my plans-Said Gray confidently.

-Gray, show him what were made of-Derek extended his right fist toward his friend in salute. He accepted that right away, a greeting they did when someone left for a solo mission in earlier days.

-I will, and that goes for you too, Derek-With that, Gray started running and turned right, heading for the west.

-"Good luck, Gray"-Derek thought as he looked out over the city. He took off his helmet and mask and let the air moved his hair-"This shouldn't be happening, it should be a calm and lively festival, not a bloody war zone"-He leaned against a nearby wall and looked down, but every few seconds, he couldn't help but his eyes focused on the stage where the girls are-"Laxus, don't expect mercy from me"-

Natsu, for his part, although he was upset that he could not go out to "participate" in this battle, he knew that this was not the time to take this so lightly. Seeing his friend so quiet and serious reminded him of that every second, but what most caught his attention was Derek's look casting towards the stage, evoked something he couldn't identify. Though he was sure of one thing, his heart was in pain and the memory of a certain albino mage invaded his mind. A pain that remained constant despite the years that passed.

In any case, Natsu approached Derek and rested his right hand on his friend's left shoulder, giving him a smile that indicated that everything, in the end, was going to be fine.

Derek was surprised to feel Natsu's touch, but he quickly gave him a sincere smile. He made it clear that he appreciated the support.

Master Makarov did not intervene in this and just watched them from his position, glad to see that the bonds of brotherhood were still strong as the day the two began to consider like that.

After ten minutes, Derek prepared to leave the guild. He put his accessories back and made sure his weapons were ready. He drew his sword and pointed it's blade skyward, letting the suns rays bounce off it before putting it away.

-It's time…-He muttered before taking the first step out of the guild, but was interrupted by Natsu's voice.

-Brother, kick the ass of anyone who crosses you in my name-

-I will, but I'll still avoid a lot of mages so you can have your fun, grandpa-Said Derek jokingly, making Natsu tap him on his right shoulder in a friendly way. Derek quickly become serious-Happy, stay with Natsu, in the moment the barrier comes down, you need to take him quickly to Laxus to finish this-

-Aye sir!-Said Happy.

-Master, whatever you do, don't give up. We're going to win this in less time than you realize, Laxus will not get away with this-With those last words, Derek began to run toward the city and head to the east side. Ready to face whatever happens.

-"Gray, Derek…I trust you both"-Master Makarov thought before looking at the runes and noticing that there were less than 38 mages left. Although he trusted both mages, he knew he should always have a backup plan for any situacion-Reedus, I need your help-

-M..master-Replied the painting mage, stepping out from behind a nearby pillar.

-After ten minutes, I want you to go to the east forest and get Porlyusica, she surely has a way to get the girls out of their state-

-Y…yes sir-Said Reedus, ready to leave after the time passed.

-"It never hurts to even have a plan C. I hope some of them work"-Thought master Makarov, as worry invaded his body.

Natsu, for his part, showed frustration at not being able to go out and fight to prove that he was the strongest mage in the guild, the real source of his frustration was knowing that everything that was going on, the fact everyone fights each other, the lives of his friends in danger, that something he could not accept. He just hoped that Gray, Derek or Reedus would succeed in their missions.

---

With Gray.

---

Gray had been running through the streets of Magnolia for half an hour and still had no sign of Laxus or anyone from his team, or even another mage in his marathon. He only finds mages who have been knocked out by losing their respective battles. To add to the chaos, many civilians were confused and terrified of whatever was happening, Gray had to tell them to hide in their homes and not come out until the city loudspeakers mentioned it. Fortunately for him, many civilians listened.

-"Where could they be?"-Gray muttered as he continued to search with his eyes for any sign of Laxus's team. However, in his search, he noticed how two barrel-shaped dummies stood behind him, he quickly turned back-What?-

-It's Gray!-

-It's Gray!-

Gray sensed the danger and quickly jumped to his left side to dodge the bolts of lightning that both dolls released. With no other options, the ice mage entered a home decor store to try and lose sight of them.

-Dammit…Bickslow's dolls, so he must be clos….-Gray felt someone on his back, he quickly turned around and saw the mage resting in a chair in the store.

-I would expect nothing less from you, Gray. Now let's have some fun, shall we?-Asked Bickslow with an arrogant tone and crossed arms. Gray just clasped his hands together and ice began to form on them, ready to fight.

-I'm not going easy on you, not especially knowing that my friends are hurt because of you-Gray said. Bickslow just smiled before getting ready to cast his first spell.

---

With Derek.

---

Derek walked in the streets, trying to avoid areas where there were many civilians in case he had to fight another mage in order to advance on his task. Like Gray, he advised the civilians to shelter until it was a safe zone, which he hoped would be in a few hours.

-"This has become a fucking battlefield"-He thought, continuing on his way until the sound of several windows breaking caught his attention. Quickly, he swerved out of his path to the right to see what was going on.

As he turned a corner, he could see a red-haired, green-chested monster, with two horns in his head and yellow shoulders, facing off against the woman guilty who had turned her friends to stone.

-"You!"-Derek thought while he looked angrily at the mage. He wanted to help whoever the creature was, but an invisible wall blocked his way. He looked up to see that it was the same runes that kept the master and Natsu from leaving. These runes said he couldn't intervene in a fight in progress, something that made him slam his fist into the runes helplessly as he could only watch as a spectator of the battle taking place. But something caught his eye, the creature had a blindfold on his eyes to prevent the mage from turning him to stone-"Good thinking, whatever you are"-

Derek hoped that, perhaps, the creature could win the fight. However, that hope didn't last long as Evergreen summoned wings and began to fly away from the creature, leaving behind a golden trail, the same color that illuminated the creature body.

-Fairy bomb: Gremlin!-That's Evergreen's words just before a huge explosion hit the creature, which fell to the ground almost fainting and losing its beat form. This revealed that it was Elfman, using his "Take-over" magic. Then, Evergreen approached him-Even you, once you turn to stone, would look lovely-

The mage took off his glasses and with his hand, forced Elfman to look her into his eyes, who was without his blindfold because it had been destroyed in the explosion. Pain prevented him from looking away.

-Now look at me, you will be surrounded by beauty-With those words of Evergreen, Elfman looked terrified at the mage before his body turned to stone, just like the girls on the stage.

-No!-Derek shouted angrily, again punching the invisible wall. Evergreen, curious, put on her glasses and looked up at the sound of the scream. A smile formed on her face at the thought that she would now have another statue secured for her personal collection.

-Looks like another mage wants to join my beautiful collection-Said Evergreen, watching as the runes indicating her fight with Elfman showed the result, and now signaled her new fight with that mage. However, she moved away from Elfman so Derek could approach to see his comrade.

-Elfman!-Derek shouted, seeing the state of the take-over mage. He knew there was nothing he could do for him now. He looked up at the counter of the remaining mages and noticed that there were only 35 people left. He only looked down to see his friends for the last time for the moment-I will save you, I promise-

Derek stood up and looked at the mage seriously, while she had only a self-centered look on her face.

-Funny, I've never seen you around the guild over the last few years, are you a rookie?-Evergreen asked.

Derek did not respond immediately. He drew his weapons and pointed the edge of his sword and dagger at the mage-I'm just someone who returned home after years away and it seems I'm doing it at the right time. Let's make this quick and easy: release all the mages you turned to stone and I won't have to hurt you…badly-

-You don't scare me, kid-Evergreen replied indifferently. Derek lowered his weapons and turned around as he noticed the civilians gathering around, curious as to what was going on.

-Everyone! Get out of this area, now!-Derek shouted. The seriousness and anger in his voice was enough for everyone to leave quickly.

-Oh…this is going to get very interesting. Looks like I'm going to play with you a little before you become part of my collection too-Said Evergreen.

-That's not going to happen, you witch, you mess with my friends and I won't forgive that-Said Derek, getting into a defensive position.

-You insolent brat, you'll make a fine addition to my room-Evergreen used his wings to soar into the air.

-Blitzkrieg mode-Derek's body was surrounded by a yellow glow, and soon after, he appeared in his armor while performing some moves with both swords. Evergreen watched with keen interest, noting the considerable increase in the boys magical power.

-"Looks like someone doesn't play games"-She thought, ready to fight.

---

Meanwhile, in the guild.

---

-Evergreen vs Elfman, winner: Evergreen. Elfman out of action. Reedus vs Fried, status: In progress. I can't believe it, Elfman lost-Said Happy, reading the runes.

-They are only less than forty wizards left…-Master Makarov muttered, watching the number slowly dwindle and feeling a great concern.

-And I still can't get out of this place!-Shouted Natsu, earning looks of disbelief from both Happy and Master Makarov.

-It's no time to complain about that, Natsu! If Reedus can't go with Porlyusica, we'll never rescue our friends-Happy said, but Natsu just folded his arms at this, as if it was no big deal.

-We don't need her. In the end, all of this is a big joke by Laxus to make us fight for real-Said Natsu, quite convinced about that idea, without realizing who was on his back.

-Oh…Salamander, you're too innocent if you think it's all a joke-Laxus voice sounded behind the group. Quickly, they turned their gazes and saw the electric wizard, who was being projected by a lacrima-But I admit, I'm still surprised to see you here. I already convinced you'd be the first to get excited about this and come out fighting-

-I can't get out! You had to write something wrong in the runes for that!-Shouted Natsu, earning a snort from Laxus.

-Laxus…this is your last warning to stop all of this-Said master Makarov seriously, but all he received from his grandson was a mocking laugh.

-Heh, you just cant stand to see your beloved brats fighting each other, grandpa? Or is it the fact with Erza and Natsu out of action, there is no one who can give us a real fight?-Asked Laxus in a mocking tone, making Makarov even more angry, for, even if he would not admit it, Laxus was partially right.

-Don't believe it! Gray and Derek are out there fighting and they're going to make it!-Happy shouted with conviction, making Laxus laugh seriously.

-Gray? That pervert who takes his clothes off every second? He's not superior to any of my minions, and his defeat will be a moment I'll remember forever. Derek? that cowardly, weak mage who ran away for five years? Don't make me laugh. It's because of people like him that Magnolia sees us as a weak guild. When he leaves through the small door of the guild, I will gladly be in charge of expelling him from the place-Laxus said mischievously before glaring at Natsu, those words were said just to provoke a reaction from the Dragon Slayer.

Laxus words echoed in Natsu's mind. Suddenly, he clenched his fists in anger, wrapping them in flames and, in less than the blink of an eye, Natsu tried to hit Laxus, but since it was only a projection, the blow did not cause any damage. Still, everyone was surprised due to the speed of the attack.

-Don't ever talk like that about my friend, Laxus. They will win and we will come for you, together-Natsu meant it. Happy and Master Makarov were shocked because they had rarely seen him so serious.

Before Laxus could say anything, the runes updated naming the new fights in progress. The silence was broken by Happy.

-Gray vs Bickslow, status: In process. Derek vs Evergreen, status: In process. Reedus vs Fried, status: Fried wins the battle. Reedus K.O-

-One down, two to go-Said Laxus mockingly as he looked at the groups faces, denoting nervousness and hope.

-"Gray…Derek….I knew you would win this"-Natsu thought as he watched the runes and waited for the results.

---

With Gray.

---

-Formation: Offensive lasers!-With those words, Bickslow launched three dummies towards Gray as green lasers came out of their mouths. Gray, being in constant suppression from the attacks, decided to do the most prudent thing at the moment and he occupied furniture and walls of the store as a shield while he escaped and planned his next move.

-"Damn it! I don't have much room to attack from far away!"-Gray thought, seeing how the three dummies had a clear shot at him. In the middle of desperation, he jumped just in time to dodge a laser attack. When Gray landed, two more mannequins joined the battle and formed a totem pointing directly at him.

-Line formation!-Said Bickslow. The totem fired a vertical laser that Gray barely had time to dodge due to the speed of the shot. The attack raised a wall of smoke and shook the entire shop. However, Gray took advantage of the chaos to point against the totem and, with a single attack, freeze them, separating the mannequins.

When Gray had completed his task, he paused for a moment to try to locate his opponent through the smoke.

-Ha ha ha, not bad, not bad at all, Gray. But let's see how you do against this! Formación: Victory!-Said Bickslow pointing in the direction where Gray might be when he heard the sound of Gray fall when he dodged his attack. However, when the "Seith" mage received no response from his puppets, he averted his gaze and when the smoke dissipated, all his minions were frozen-What!? At what point…?-

He couldn't finish his question when Gray, having heard his voice, using his legs as an extra boost, slammed his fist into Bickslow head, the blow was so strong that it even sent the "Seitht" mage back a few centimeters. Although Gray also took damage from hitting the mage helmet. Still, overcome by the adrenaline of the moment, Gray took the opportunity to clasp his hands together.

-Ice-maker: Hammer!-With those words, a large hammer appeared in his hand and head to hit Bickslow. However, Bickslow was quicker and put his arms in the shape of an X to block the attack, and four human-shaped dummies appeared in the hammers path, parrying the blow without difficulty. The weight and force of the impact knocked Gray back considerably.

-H..how?-Gray wondered in surprise.

-Remember that my magic can possess spirit dolls, Gray. If you freeze my babies, I can move them to another body with no problem-Bickslow said casually.

-Other bodies-the dolls echoed

-Damn you! You're a real pain in the ass-Gray said, frustrated.

-You get it now, don't you, Gray? Attacking my babies is useless-Said Bickslow as his minions flew around him.

-Then I'll go to the source of the problem!-Gray clasped his hand together again-Ice maker: laser!-

An ice laser shot out of Gray's hands, but Bickslow was quicker to put two of his mannequins in front to use as shields, stopping the attack quickly. He, knowing he was at a disadvantage in such a close quarters, decided that while the beam was attacking his mannequins, he ran out of the store into the street of Magnolia.

-I'd like to see you try that again!-Bickslow shouted as he laughed in a mocking way, in a clear provocation to Gray, who took the bait.

-You coward! Don't you dare to run away!-Shouted the ice mage, chasing after him-Stop!-

Both mages ran for a brief time through the streets when Bickslow entered into a narrow alley. Gray followed him short after, surprised to see that his opponent was nowhere to be found, he knew exactly what this meant.

-"Damn it, this is a trap"-Gray thought, starting to walk carefully-Where did you go? You coward!-

-Up here-Bickslow replied. Gray looked up and saw the seith mage supported with his feet several meters above him.

-What the hell are you trying to do?-Gray asked.

-I just want to raise the level of fun! My babies have been bored out of their minds taking low performing rivals-Bickslow replied with a mischievous grin.

Gray had no time for games, so he quickly clasped his hands together to summon his magic. However, he felt no magical flow in his body, which alarmed him. Before he could do anything, some runes surrounded him, making a barrier that just circled him-What does this mean?-

-No one can use magic inside this barrier until the battle is over! In this moment, being a ranged attack mage comes in handy-Said Bickslow confidently.

-"I fucking know it"-Gray thought before he noticed some mannequins appear behind him-Shit!-

The mannequin fired lasers into the alley, causing a large explosion that wrapped Gray.

-Without magic, you are nothing, Gray-Bickslow said with satisfaction, but his joy was short-lived when he received a blow to his chest that sent him to the ground.

-Don't believe it, I still have my fists-Gray shouted as he tried to come down with all his weight on Bickslow. However, Bickslows dummies appeared to fire lasers and Gray, forcing him to use his legs to back up to avoid the impact-They're not going to hit me!-

Gray was at full confidence, he was trusting of an easy and humiliating victory against the "Seith" magic to show him that no one would mess with their friends. However, his eyes caught a brown-haired girl watching the battle with a terrified look on her face. That look was painfully familiar to him: It was the same look he suffered when Deliora attacked his village.

Memories of that fateful day flashed through his mind.

Bickslow took advantage of Gray's distraction and ordered his dummies to attack him with lasers. Gray was hit and sent him into a nearby wall so hard that he felt the pain running down his back in a way that told him the blow was more serious than he thought.

Bickslow chuckled with satisfaction at seeing Gray in serious difficulty-Don't be distracted, Gray-

Gray recovered from the blow and, using his legs as momentum, reached the mages position and struck him in the chin with a fist so hard that it sent him to the ground. It was Gray's last attempt before his strength began to fail him. He knew he had lost, and frustration consumed him. A single distraction had doomed the fight, and he had only himself to blame for this rookie mistake.

Before his world went black, he watched as the girl was pushed away by her mother outside from the window to prevent her from getting hurt.

-"Natsu is going to bother me about this forever"-That was Gray's last thought before passing out.

Bickslow stood up with pain in his face and adjusted his jaw, turned around to continue the fight.

-What a bastard….-He muttered before noticing that Gray wasn't moving at all-Huh?-

Bickslow approached and, carefully, used his right foot to move his chest slightly to see if there was any reaction from him, but Gray was just K.O. Something that made him laugh in victory.

-And that's….why you should wear a lot of clothes for combat, it absorbed some of the impact-Bickslow said mockingly as he made his way to the exit of the alley, noticing how the runes indicated his victory.

Bickslow vs Gray. Status: Bickslow wins the battle. Gray K.O. 9 participants remain.

---

With Derek.

---

-Stop flying away, damn it!-Derek complained as he dodged the explosions that Evergreen unleashed on him. He also had to dodge the debris and rocks that flew after each explosion.

-The boy can't seem to fight at my height-Evergreen sneered, spreading his wings and arms out to the sides-Fairy Magic!-

Derek saw several lightning bolts approaching him at high speed. He began to back away quickly while taking up everything he could as a shield against the blasts of those lightning bolts. Thanks to his armor, his reflexes could warn when to jump or duck to dodge those bolts. When he paused for a moment behind an abandoned street stall, he looked skyward in search of his opponent, but did not find her.

-Bloody hell, where is it?-He wondered, paying special attention to his ear to listen for any strange noises. Suddenly, he heard something to his left, very close to him.

Quickly, he closed his eyes fearing that she was without her glasses, and spun on his own axis, using his legs to try to knock her down or make her jump, something that worked as he heard something jump and pass over him two meters above him-I got you-

-Fairy bomb: Gremlin!-Evergreen shouted.

-Powered: Chain!-Derek quickly pointed his right sword in the same direction of the voice. The blade of the sword became thinner and more flexible until it transformed into a small rope with a kunai at the tip. The handle became a hilt with a trigger. When the kunai collided with something physically strong enough to support its weight. Derek pulled the trigger and ran away from the scene. As he moved away, he heard several small explosions in his former position, he had avoided major damage by a split second.

-You pull out of the hat more tricks, I'm impressed-Evergreen commented, hidden behind the cloud of smoke that had formed from the explosion.

-You haven't seen anything of me yet-Said Derek earnestly, closing his eyes again.

-I'm so scared right now-Evergreen said in a notoriously sarcastic manner-But let's see what you can do against this. Fairy machine gun: Leprechaun!-

Derek heard several small projectiles heading towards him. He quickly disappeared his left sword and grabbed his right sword with both hands from the handle. Then he raised the blade skyward.

-Slash blade!-He exclaimed, swiftly lowered his sword and a vertical trail came out of his sword, moving towards Evergreen. She, not knowing that the attack would not harm her, dodged the attack by moving to the right. Derek, taking advantage of the opportunity, moved in the direction from which he was attacked.

As he passed through the smoke, he heard Evergreen's footsteps to his left. He headed that way and began to attack with his sword in a swift manner. He knew he was succeeding when he heard Evergreenss moves, indicating that she was dodging his attacks.

At one point, Evergreen managed to leap over Derek and, using her left foot, delivered a blow to his back that sent him to the ground. However, she was unable to attack again when Derek quickly stood up, spun on his own axis again and confronted her face to face.

-Closing your eyes won't do any good. You saw what happened to the beast-Said Evergreen confidently.

-That's where you're wrong. Your mistake was showing your secret weapon earlier-Derek replied calmly, infuriating Evergreen.

-I don't know what your game is, but it ends now!-Evergreen exclaimed, using his wings to get away from Derek. However, that was what he expected. In his left hand, appeared his dagger, which pointed in the direction Evergreen moved.

-Powered: flashbang!-Shouted Derek.

It was too late for Evergreen when she processed those words. A large flash erupted from the dagger, causing a sharp pain in his eyes. his flight became erratic as she tried to regain his vision by rubbing his eyes.

-My eyes!-She shouted, and that was the signal for Derek to open his own eyes and watch as she struggled to stay in the air. Knowing this was his chance, Derek aimed his dagger at the mages leg.

-Lightning whip!-With that, the blade of the dagger extended and became longer and flexible, transforming into a whip that caught Evergreens right leg. Soon after, the entire whip encircled his body.

The electricity surrounded Evergreen's body and made her scream in pain. After a few seconds, Derek forcefully lowered the handle of his weapon, causing Evergreen to fall heavily to the flood, suffering a great impact on her back. She was completely immobilized. Derek approached her with a serious gesture and placed his sword near his neck.

-H..how? How is it possible that you defeated me?!-Evergreen asked herself, incredulously.

-Because you did something I cannot forget, you turned my friends to stone, you made many of my friends fight and get hurt….-Derek pressed his sword a little tighter against the mage's neck, which increased her nervousness-Before my patience runs out, I will give you only one option. Release all my friends you turned to stone, now-

-Y…you know, I have another hidden power. I can turn everyone to ashes if I wish-Evergreen said, regaining some confidence as she believed she had the situation under control. However, her gaze was terrified when she saw Derek's irises shrink, like a wild animal.

Suddenly, Evergreen felt something cold pass on her right cheek, as she looked to see what it was, she saw Derek's dagger stuck to the wall very close to her.

-Oh...I seem to have missed it due to fatigue. I think Im going to correct that now-Said Derek as he took the dagger out of the wall and pointed it again at Evergreen. She, seeing how serious he was, started to sweat with fear.

-W…wait! I'll free them! But don't kill me!-Said Evergreen, visibly terrified.

-How do I know you're telling the truth?-Derek asked with coldness in his voice.

-Ju…just look at the beast-Evergreen responded, trembling. Derek, to make sure she didn't do anything suspicious, blocked Evergreens vision with his left hand and averted his gaze to Elfman. He watched as the gray of his friend's body faded until the color of his clothes and skin returned to normal-S…see? Now don't kill me-

Derek stood thinking for a while about it, which increased Evergreen's nervousness.

-You're lucky I don't kill guild mates despite what you did. Master is gonna decide your destiny-Said Derek before raising the dagger and striking her in the head with the handle, Knocking her and undoing the whip that enveloped her. Derek deactivated his armor and soon felt shortness of breath, as well as a general discomfort in many muscles in his body.

-"Bloody hell, I overdid it again with the armor….shit"-Derek thought, before noticing some runes appearing in front of him.

Bickslow vs Gray. Status: Bickslow wins the battle. Gray K.O. 9 participants remain.

-"Gray…."-Derek lamented his friends defeat and clenched his fists angrily. He knew what his friend was capable of, so he was sure they had to set him up or ambush him, either way, there was nothing he could do for him.

He was still in this twisted game.

Derek vs Evergreen. Status: Derek wins the battle. Evergreen K.O. 17 participants remain.

-"Seventeen? But there were nine left before….I know all the contest mages are back to normal now….but who else joined?"-Derek wondered as he began to walk aimlessly. But he could only take a few steps before he realized something too obvious.

-"I'm a fucking idiot! I didn't ask her for information about Laxus!"-Derek slapped his forehead with his hand, feeling like a complete imbecile.

---

Back in the guild.

---

-Bickslow vs Gray…..Gray lost….nine participants remains…-Happy read the runes in horror. Master Makarov and Natsu looked at the words with the same expression of shock, which brought a mocking laugh from Laxus.

-Ha ha ha! I told you! That weakling couldn't do anything against Bickslow. Now, all you have left is that weakling swordsman to represent you. I wonder how long it will be before his name appears-Said Laxus with contempt.

-That victory is a lie! I'm sure you used some kind of cheat for that!-Happy said with conviction, unable to believe that his close friend had lost. Natsu, for his part, looked at the runes angrily. He had no doubt that Happy's cheating theory was true.

-"Gray….what the hell happened? You're stronger than any of them…"-Natsu thought, regretting that he couldn't do anything at that moment, but that was water under the bridge. Now, he just concentrated on the other fight that caught his attention, the battle between Derek and Evergreen-"Derek….I know you're going to make it"-

A few seconds later, the runes were rewritten. Everyone was attentive to what had happened.

-Derek vs Evergreen. Status…..Derek…wins the battle! Evergreen K.O!-Happys excitement was palpable as he read those words, and Natsu was quick to hug his feline friend and began to celebrate. Master Makarov only had a small smile on his face at that, while Laxus was in shock. He couldn't believe that one of his bodyguards had been defeated by a weakling like him.

-What?! Impossible!-Said Laxus, furious.

-Yes! In your face, Laxus!-Natsu shouted about that. He knew that, in addition to Derek's victory, his friends would be free.

-"Brat….I can see your process after all those years"-Though master Makarov proudly pointed towards the swordsman process. He averted his gaze to the stage and noticed how the gray color of the girls began to disappear. With that, he looked defiantly at his grandson-What are you going to do now, Laxus?-

-Damn you, Evergreen! How could you lose to him?!-Laxus shouted, his anger evident in his voice.

-Never doubt the Fairy Tail's ability to fight with all their might when they have everything to lose-Said master Makarov confidently. Laxus, enraged, cut the transmission with a blow.

Natsu, Happy and master were on their way to the stage to help their friends, but as they passed near the guild bar, they heard someone eating quite loudly. Curious and cautious, they looked towards the bar and noticed a rather recognizable hairstyle. Gajeel looked up and they all saw that he was eating the silverware.

-Gajeel, have you been there the whole time?-Asked Natsu in surprise, not having been able to smell his presence before, due to the stress of everything.

-Don't eat the cutlery, they were new, dammit!-Shouted master Makarov in horror.

-Did you hear everything that happened?-Happy asked, curious.

-Yes, the truth is that I was hungry and, when I least realized it, I had already been here for a few minutes-Gajeel replied indifferently, before he ate the last spoon in his mouth-Although….before leaving to get a score to settle with that idiot. I want to see if Juvia is all right-

That last sentence was only heard by Natsu, who couldn't help but smile. Even if Gajeel didn't show it, he cared about his old friend, and that gave Natsu hope, sooner or later, he would start to integrate better into the guild.

The group approached the stage and watched as, gradually, the girls began to regain their natural colors and move their limbs. After a few seconds, they were all back to normal.

-Ugh….wha…what happened?-Lucy wondered, waving her hands as if she had awakened from a long sleep, just like the rest of the girls.

-T…the last thing I remember is Evergreen…-Erza said, confused, until she noticed master, Happy, Natsu and Gajeel approaching.

-Girls, you're back!-Said Natsu, excited.

-Lucy, Erza!-Happy shouted, flying among her friends, excited to see them well and alive.

-Master, what happened?-Levy asked hesitantly, still moving his muscles slowly to get them back to 100%.

The master just prepared to tell everything that had happened in the last two hours.

---

Meanwhile, Kardia Cathedral.

---

-How in the world did Evergreen lose to that clown, it was supposed to be an easy win, damn it!-Laxus punched a nearby pillar with great force, the blow was so hard and so accurate that it even ripped off part of the structure and blood flowed from his fist.

-Evergreen must have been confident in a hypothetical easy victory. Besides, we don't know anything about this supposed "Brother" of Natsu. You should have sent Bickslow or me against him-Fried approached from behind him with a serious look. Without turning around, Laxus removed his hand from the pillar and looked to the back of the cathedral. He calmed down enough to lower the tone of his voice, just a little.

-What…are you doing here? Why aren't you out hunting him down right now?-Laxus asked.

Fried, despite not seeing his "Masters" face, could not help but get a little nervous due to the tone of his voice.

-Because, although the game was entertaining, it's over. The master managed to free the girls and has no more reasons to go through with this-Fried explained. Laxus only turned his gaze and looked at him with great fury on his face.

Fried froze in fear and recoiled slightly as a bolt of lightning passed right by him. He wanted to complain to his leader, but for his own good, he decided to keep his mouth shut. Laxus just breathed heavily before speaking.

-This isn't over, not yet, we have the plan "B"-The lightning mage looks directly into the eyes of his minion-I sense the doubt in your eyes. I'm just warning you, if you're not with me for what's coming, then get lost. I don't need you in the new guild I have in mind-

Fried just stared at him for a moment, before nodding his head, very sure of this-The thunder palace….are you really going to go to such extreme measures?-

-There is no other option. Like you not going for the rest of the fairies, I'm sure many girls will join to the quest to find us, but I'm going to fight this damn weakling and destroy him. You focus on Cana and the phantom girl, neither of them should be in the guild, and use whatever you want to exterminate them-Laxus ordered, no doubt in his voice.

-Ex…exterminate?-Asked Fried, surprised and thinking he had misheard.

-Yes, exterminate. I don't want any more disappointments, Dark Fried, don't hold back-Said Laxus simply, starting to walk towards the back of the cathedral.

-But…they're still our comrad…-Fried didnt finish speaking when a bolt of lightning struck right behind him, leaving him paralyzed by the suddenness of the attack.

-Are you disobeying my orders?-Laxus asked angrily. Fried looked at him with fear; In all the years he had been part of the Laxus bodyguards, he had never, ever, seem him as angry as he was now.

With all his might, he changed his expression to one of seriousness.

-You said it yourself. There is no other option, if this takes us to the Tartarus, so be it. I will go after the girls-Fried said, starting to leave the place.

Laxus just grinned at that, trusting Fried to, at least, eliminated forever that two worms.

---

Back to the guild.

---

-The…battle of Fairy Tail?-Lucy asked in surprise.

-And Laxus did all that? That bastard….-Cana said with displeasure.

-Yes…but it doesn't matter now. Now that you are free, there is no need to play this stupid game anymore-Said master Makarov.

-But what about all those who were forced to fight?-Asked Mirajane, thinking of all his friends but especially, her brother.

-Exactly! Laxus can't get away with all this!-Said Bisca, angrily.

-I know, damn it! I myself will give him the highest punishment that can be given! Damn you, Laxus! This time, you will not escape from your punishment so easily-Said master Makarov, looking towards the exit and feeling guilty for not being able to leave the site and let someone else fight his battle.

-I'm with you, old man. But not before I teach him a lesson-Said Natsu, while throwing his fists in the air.

-You're not going to have all the fun of teaching him a lesson on your own, Natsu, were going to talk to him too-Said Cana, while Erza and Bisca nodded in agreement.

-Oh no, you don't, get your own Laxus for that. I'm not going to share it!-Natsu replied with determination, until an idea formed in his head and he rubbed his hands together, excited for what's coming-Unless….you want to fight about it-But that excitement didn't last long when he felt the air getting heavier and colder. Natsu shifted his eyes to the source and saw Erza's face. A deadly and serious look that said more than a thousand words. With great nervousness, He talk.

-A…althought…I believe…we can share the fight-

-I thought so…-Said Erza, crossing her arms.

-And to think that I was locked up with this idiot-Gajeel muttered.

-Whats the matter, Gajeel? Still not used to this guild?-Asked Juvia, with a slight smile on her face from the recent show.

-It's….a particular one, I give you that-Gajeel replied, averting his gaze.

However, that peace was shattered when the sound of runes activating behind the group made all turn around.

-Huh? What's going on?-Asked Levy, confused.

-Laxus?-Asked Natsu.

-What kind of stupidity will he come up with?-Cana asked.

-Whatever it is, we will face it-Said Erza, is left hand in her sword.

The runes began to form the shape of a human skull, but it was not only in the guild, but also in the sky of Magnolia.

The few mages who were still standing in the fight, as well as a few others who stood up after losing their respectives battles, noticed the large skull and how yellow orbs began to surround the entire city, putting every mage on alert. The civilians, on the other hand, don't know what's going on.

Luckily, the speech coming out of the skull was only heard by the guild.

-Did you hear me, old man?!-Laxus' voice comes from the skull-And well, the rest of the guild likewise. Since one of your lap dogs has broken a rule, a new one will be added. I'm going to active the thunder palace to keep the "Battle of fairy tail" exciting-

-T…the thunder palace?-Master Makarov muttered in disbelief and horror.

-You have one hour and ten minutes left to defeat us or hand over control of the guild to me. Old man, remember what you're willing to lose just to keep a stupid title-Laxus said, starting to laugh before his voice began to fade.

Makarov started to get even angrier and it showed on his face.

-Give him control of the guild?! What the hell are you thinking, Laxus?! Are you out of yo...-The masters face went from one of fury to pain and he quickly clutched his chest in anguish. This was noticed by everyone, but before anyone could do anything, master Makarov fainted.

-Master!-The group shouted.

-Shit! Mirajane! The medicine, now!-Erza shouted quickly as she moved to the masters side and put him in a more comfortable position on the floor. Mirajane wasted no time and went up to the masters office to give him his medicine.

-Talking about a bad time…-Bisca muttered.

-Hold on, master!-Cried Levy.

-What the hell is all this about the thunder palace? Why did the old man look so scared about it?-Natsu asked, but no one had the slightest idea about that.

Mirajane had arrived at the office and quickly took out the medicine, but just before leaving, she noticed through the window of the place the yellow spheres rising over the city. Quickly, she decided to tell the rest of the group about it.

-Everyone! Look outside, now!-Mirajane shouted, catching everyone's attention.

When everyone looked out of the guild windows, all saw the strange orbs. While Mirajane approached the master to give him his medicine, the rest decided to go up to the second floor and get out to see what was going on.

-What are those things?-Asked Natsu.

-Electrical lacrimas?-Levy asked, noticing how these objects were inside the orbs.

-They're floating all over the city…..and it doesn't give me a good feel-Lucy replied.

-Is that the thunder palace Laxus mentioned?-Erza asked.

-If these are indeed lacrimas, , they must hold an incredible power…-Said Cana.

-Wait…what happens if they are activated?-Asked Lucy, fear in her voice for knowing the answer.

-We don't know and we don't care. Whatever they are, they don't belong there! Re-equip:Sniper!-Bisca equipped herself with a bolt-action rifle and a multi-magnification scope. She took aim at one of the orbs-Target acquired! Stinger shot!-

She pulled the trigger of her gun and a bullet came out of the barrel, after five seconds of flight, the bullet hit the target and the orb exploded.

-Good shot, Bisca!-Cana said.

-Ha, that was so easy, I took care of the others in….-Bisca didn't finish speaking when electricity ran through her body. Her eyes widened in surprise due to the sensation of danger-What the…?-

A second later, a lightning bolt struck her with great force and Bisca's pain scream invaded the atmosphere.

-Bisca!-The group shouted in horror. Erza quickly equipped her lightning empress armor to help her friend, but she couldn't see the source of the attack, so she could only watch helplessly.

After a few seconds, Bisca fell to the ground, unconscious from the pain.

-Hey, Bisca! Come on! Say something!-Said Natsu, worried about her.

-Bisca, stay with us! Just hold on!-Levy bent down and put her friends head on her legs while trying to wake her up, but it was useless.

-Wh…what….what just happened?-Lucy asked.

-That's….a magic spell…."Organic link magic"-Said Erza, catching the attention of everyone who saw her confused-If we attacks those orbs, they will return the damage immediately….but that means….if we fail to destroy or win this twisted game now….what will happen to the city…-

No more words were needed for that, the mere scenario of that elicited a massive shock in everyone.

-What?!-

-So…the civilians and everyone here…-Said Natsu, noticing how a few people who had seen everything, began to run and hide in their homes with great fear on their faces.

-We must stop Laxus right now!-Said Erza, changing her armor to her usual attire and looking toward the lacrimas with seriousness.

-We should all go and end this!-Said Cana, making everyone nod their heads, before she realized something-Hold on a moment…why is Natsu here? I thought you'd be the first to go in this crazy game-

-I can't get out! Laxus wrote the runes wrong and won't let me leave!-Natsu complained. Which earned him a mocking laugh from Gajeel.

-To me, he doesn't consider you a worthy rival, Salamander. It's time to settle accounts with him-Gajeel jumped the railing to go to the street and find Laxus, but was also stopped by the invisible wall that prevented Natsu from leaving the guild, hitting him in the nose-Oh! What the actual….-

-Ha! Who's laughing now, old man?-Scoffed Natsu, before Gajeel bumped his head against his.

-Old man?! You're here too, if you haven't noticed, you moron!-

-Enough!-Erza hit them both on their heads, calming them down-This is no time for your nonsense! We have more urgent things in hand!-

-Yes, Erza-Said Natsu, fearful of her friend. Gajeel, for his part, only nodded.

Erza sighed heavily to clear her thoughts. Then, she opened his eyes with the same intensity he had on his missions, something not far from reality.

-Lucy, take care of evacuating the city, gentle and fast as you can. Cana, Juvia, you look for Laxus in the eastern part of the city. Levy, stay here and try to investigate some way to deactivate the thunder palace. Let's move out!-With that shout, all the group started to move.

Levy, with Gajeels help, began to move Bisca towards the infirmary.

-Wait, Lucy! I'm coming with you!-Said Happy, following her friend.

Natsu just stood on the balcony, watching the lacrimas seriously. Knowing that Laxus was willing to harm innocent lives just for a twisted game made him realize that this was no longer a game, it was a damn war. Several of his friends were wounded for his nonsense. And that was something that would make his opinion clear.

-"If I make it out of here, Laxus. I'll show you no mercy"-Natsu thought, clenching his fist against the invisible wall in Fury. However, while he was lost in his thoughts, he remembered master Makarov words mentioned early.

-None of us can. The only one who could is Levy, but we all know her current condition

-That's right, Levy!-

With that, Natsu entered the guild in search of the letter magic.

---

Meanwhile, in the streets of Magnolia.

---

Derek paused to observe the lacrimas floating around the city. Whatever it was that "Thunder palace" that Laxus mentioned, he was sure it was about those floating things.

Even though he knew that the girls were free and surely they would join in the search for Laxus, he was no guarantee that any of them would find it soon. For now, his priority was to keep looking for Laxus.

-"I don't have time to waste, move up"-He thought before resuming his run through the city.

---

Gray, for his part, had only just woken up a few minutes ago, lucky enough to hear Laxus entire monologue. Whatever those things in the sky are, he knew that master Makarov must have known that, and he hoped he had a plan to stop them. To ensure that, his priority is to find Warren to create a connection with everyone and receive the information immediately.

Now that he was no longer participating in this game, he had no fear of meeting another mage to fight him.

-"Damn it, Warren, where are you?"-Gray thought running as fast as possible his body would let him, which wasnt much considering the damage he had.

---

On the other side of the town. Cana and Juvia were still searching for Laxus or any clue of him, but luck was not on their side.

-Nothing…-Said Cana in frustration. Juvia, although she seemed to be calm, deep inside she was nervous about the situation.

-Is there a place Laxus frequents? You've known him for years, right?-Juvia asked.

Cana stopped running. She started to remember if there was a clue for that, but after a few seconds, she just let out a frustrated grunt-I may have known him for a long time, but now he's a completely different person than the one I remember. I've lost any idea I had of him years ago-

Juvia looked at the card mage worriedly-If he's hiding out doing time, Juvia would be think is a good idea to look outside of Magnolia, let's go!-

With that, Cana and Juvia started running towards the city limits.

---

Meanwhile, Lucy and Happy were on the streets as they warned some civilians to go to a safe place and not to leave until the city loudspeakers gave the order. Many of the civilians were confused and others were not paying attention at all, something that frustrated the duo.

-Why don't they use the citys loudspeakers to order the evacuation?-Lucy asked, pausing a bit to see how many people were there right now.

Too many to evacuate calmly and quietly.

-Only the Master can do that, and we've already seen his current state. Besides, it's not a good idea to alert people-Happy replied, noticing how there were people walking around as if nothing was happening.

-Bad timing for master to be out of combat now…but why do you say that about is no a good idea to alert people of what was happening?-Asked Lucy, looking at the blue cat in confusion.

-Because right now, there are a lot of people from out of town to see the festival and Fantasia. If we tell them what is happening, everything will become chaotic and people will get hurt-Happy explained.

-But the lacrimas are there for all to see, and many of them are watching them as if they were nothing-Said Lucy.

-Because they don't know what they are. They are probably thinking that they are part of the event and nothing more, but what will happen when they find out the truth?-Happy asked.

Lucys eyes widened in surprise as she understood the point.

-"He is right…if people find out that these things can destroy the city, the fear and panic will cause a human avalanche with many injured. But if we don't tell them….I can't even imagine what will happen when time runs out"-Lucy just closed her eyes, undecided about what decision she should make-What should I do?-

-Yes, what should you do?-An unfamiliar voice to both Lucy and Happy sound. Confused, they both looked up and saw three small mannequins floating above them.

-What the…?-Lucy asked, confused.

-Watch out!-Happy reacted quickly and flew to her, grabbed her by her blouse and flew her out of the place. Lucy, seeing that she was way above the ground, quickly covered her crotch with her hands to prevent anyone from seeing that area.

Happy took her to a nearby rooftop.

-What was that?-Lucy asked, seeing how the area where she was seconds ago had a wall of smoke due to some explosion. The explosion was loud enough to draw the attention of many civilians nearby, who began to flee in panic. Although Lucy and Happy wanted to make sure that no civilians were hurt by the stampede, they knew they were now in more serious trouble.

-It's an attack…by Bickslow-Said Happy, searching with his eyes for the mage responsible, as did Lucy.

-Oh, hey, so this is the rookie weve been hearing so much about the last time-Bickslow said.

Lucy looked in the direction of the voice and saw, at the top of the toy store, the mage was resting.

-What have you heard about me?-Lucy asked, but she took some time to think-On second thought, forget that question-

-Dramatic, cosplay-loving, meat-lover princess-Bickslow replied, confusing Lucy.

-Meat lover?-Lucy wondered.

-That would explain why you're so fat…-Happy said casually, making Lucy look at him angrily.

-Shut up, cat!-Lucy pointed her index finger to Happy, before pointing it at Bickslow-And who the hell said those things! They are all fakes!-

-Now…what are you supposed to be…a cheerleader?-Asked Bickslow, ignoring Lucy's question.

Lucy was confused by this, but it was enough for her to lower her gaze and remember the reason for the suit. A blush of embarrassment appeared on her face-I…well…-

-Whatever! Babies, get her!-Shouted Bickslow. With that, the dummies approached Lucy and began firing lasers at her.

Lucy and Happy began to back away to avoid the shots, but after a few seconds, the dummies backed up to bickslows position, where they began to spin around her.

-I apologize for that, rookie! Normally, I wouldn't be so rough, but Laxus' orders are to finish off the remaining mages fast!-

-You wounded several mages who were trying to save us! You're holding innocent civilians hostage for this stupid game and you wounded my friends! Do you really thinking anyone will forgive you for this?!-Lucy asked, angrily.

-I don't need anyone's pardon, just from the next master, and that master will be Laxus when all this is over!-Bickslow was sure of his statement before noticing how the runes appeared in front of both mages, indicating that their battle was in process and was known to the remaining mages-It's about time to stop clowning around and get serious!-

Lucy and Happy just looked at Bickslow with concern. Lucy knew that, if he was on Laxus team, he was someone not to be underestimated. But she had to win not only to save the civilians who were in danger, but also to avenge all the mages who were hurt by this game.

The "Battle of Fairy Tail", though already well underway, was barely going into its most destructive phrase right now, and time wasn't helping.

---

Author's notes:
Finally, finish the first part of three of "The Battle of Fairy Tail" arc.
I must tell you all that the dialogues are based on the subtitles translated to Spanish from the anime. I don't know if the English dubbing or the English subtitles are different, but I clarify that so you won't be surprised if you see something different in a dialogue.
I translated this episode as fast as I could since it will be the last one for a long time, as I will concentrate on the Spanish version to release some chapters that I have been thinking about for a long time.
When will I come back with the translation? Who knows, maybe mid April or May, since the episodes I want to write will be long and full of stories not only for the main character, but also for the rest.
Without further, I'll see you in May at the latest.