A terrifying aura surged through the hotel, rattling windows and sending many Sabertooth members to their knees, overwhelmed by dread.
Through the swinging doors strode Su Yan, the "Undead Demon Emperor" of Fairy Tail. His mere presence silenced every voice.
Su Yan's gaze found Minerva. "Release Happy."
Minerva hesitated, then set the trembling spirit free. "I… was caught at the entrance. I'm sorry."
"It's all right," Happy chirped. "I should apologize for running off."
Su Yan turned to Natsu. "Let's go."
Natsu squared his shoulders, back to the stunned Sabertooth guild. "I refuse to lose to anyone who abandons their comrades. Remember this: no matter how strong you think you are, you'll never catch up to us. A true guild cherishes its members."
With those words, Natsu and Su Yan exited side by side.
In Sabertooth's ranks, Rogue bowed his head in shame. Comrades… he thought. That's the bond our guild has forgotten.
Sting's eyes shone with renewed fervor. He had always admired Natsu's spirit—and now, he saw that even after seven years, Natsu's fire burned brighter than ever.
Dawn, Crocus Streets
Whispers darted through the early-morning mist:
"Did you hear? Fairy Tail's Undead Demon Emperor showed up last night."
"He actually fought the Sabertooth Tiger—right in their own hotel!"
"These Games get wilder every year."
Yukino Aguria, passing nearby, paused at the gossip. So Natsu challenged us—and Su Yan stood by him. A spark of resolve lit in her heart.
Day Three: Demon Temple Event
Special Guest: Captain Rahal of the Magic Council's Monitoring Unit, sworn to uphold the Games' rules.
Rules Announcement by Pumpkin Head:
"Today's challenge takes place within the rapidly manifesting Demon Temple—one entrant per guild. Conquer its depths to claim victory!"
A vast, ruined palace materialized at the arena's center. Spires of black stone and twisted gargoyles formed a foreboding labyrinth: the Temple of Conquering Demons.
From Fairy Tail:
Erza Scarlet strode forward first. "I'll take this challenge."
Mirajane Strauss followed with a confident smile. "I couldn't stay behind."
Millianna, cheering for Kagura, volunteered. "If you two go, I go too!"
From Raven Tail:
The masked warrior Obra stepped up. "No tricks for the senators."
From Blue Pegasus:
Ren Akatsuki smirked. "I've got this one."
Ivan Dreyar sighed, "I need to make up for yesterday."
From Sabertooth:
Orga Nanagear cracked his knuckles. "I'll strike with Black Thunder."
Sting Eucliffe frowned, "I'll watch—or maybe… I'll enter after all."
From Lamia Scale:
Toby Horhorta snorted, "My socks may still hurt, but I'm in."
Yuka Suzuki teased, "Toby, let's see you fight."
Jura Neekis grinned. "Permission granted."
The crowd buzzed as the Demon Temple's gates swung open—today's crucible would test every champion's mettle.