The atmosphere in Sabertooth's guild hall grew tense as Rufus Lore recounted what his network of informants had discovered about the mysterious dark elf of Fairy Tail. The Memory-Make mage's usual composed demeanor showed hints of excitement as he adjusted his mask, drawing the attention of his fellow elite members.
"My memory tells me this is unprecedented," Rufus began, his voice barely above a whisper. "According to witnesses near the coast, during a confrontation with Acnologia, Odyn underwent a transformation that defied conventional magic understanding."
Minerva leaned forward, her usual air of superiority replaced by genuine curiosity. "Explain."
"They called it the 'Blazing Arkynorean' form," Rufus continued. "His appearance changed dramatically – his dark blue hair became like flowing streams of starlight, his skin radiating with celestial markings that seemed to pulse with divine energy. But it was his eyes..." Rufus paused, ensuring he had everyone's attention. "His eyes became like miniature suns, blazing with such intensity that even Acnologia seemed to hesitate."
Sting and Rogue exchanged meaningful glances. As Dragon Slayers, they understood the significance of anyone being able to challenge the Dragon King. "Are you saying this dark elf actually wounded Acnologia?" Sting asked, his voice mixing disbelief with admiration.
"The witnesses described it as a battle that shook the heavens," Rufus confirmed. "The Blazing Arkynorean form appeared to channel some kind of ancient divine power. Each strike from Odyn left searing wounds on Acnologia's scales – wounds that didn't immediately heal, something previously thought impossible."
Orga, who had been unusually quiet, finally spoke up. "Divine power, huh? Different from God Slayer magic?"
"Entirely different," Minerva interjected, her strategic mind already analyzing the implications. "This sounds more like the awakening of an ancient bloodline. The Arkynoreans... I've read about them in forbidden texts. They were said to be a race of divine beings who walked Earthland long before dragons established their dominion."
The elite members of Sabertooth found themselves in an unfamiliar position – feeling something akin to awe. The guild that prided itself on strength above all else had to acknowledge that this power was beyond their current understanding.
"The most intriguing part," Rufus added, "is that witnesses claim Odyn seemed to be holding back, as if he hadn't fully unleashed this form's potential. The divine energy he wielded appeared to be focused primarily on driving Acnologia away from populated areas, rather than purely on combat."
Minerva's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "A power that could overwhelm Acnologia, wielded by someone who shows restraint... Father would have found this vexing." She allowed herself a small smile. "But I find it fascinating."
"Should we..." Sting started, then hesitated. "Should we try to learn more about this power?"
"Carefully," Minerva cautioned. "We're no longer the guild that takes what it wants by force. If we want to understand the Blazing Arkynorean, we'll need to approach this diplomatically."
The implications hung heavy in the air. Sabertooth, once known for its ruthless pursuit of power, now found itself considering a more humble approach – not out of weakness, but out of respect for a power that had managed to do what many thought impossible: drive back the Dragon King himself.
In the following days, members of Sabertooth began discreetly gathering more information about Arkynorean lore, while their elite members debated the possibility of reaching out to Fairy Tail directly. The revelation of such power existing within their former rivals had shaken their worldview, but also offered an opportunity for growth – if they could approach it with the wisdom their past selves had lacked.
Meanwhile, unbeknownst to them, Odyn's display of power had caught the attention of others as well, including ancient beings who had long thought the Arkynorean bloodline lost to time. The ripples of his battle with Acnologia were spreading far beyond Fiore's borders, setting in motion events that would soon test both his power and his restraint.
Sabertooth's archive room had become unusually busy in recent weeks. Among the dusty tomes and ancient scrolls, Rufus Lore sat surrounded by research materials, his face illuminated by a floating lacrima as he studied yet another account of Odyn's abilities.
"Lady Minerva," he called out to the guild master's daughter, who had taken to spending her evenings there as well. "I've found something... concerning."
Minerva approached, her heels clicking softly on the stone floor. "More about the Arkynorean form?"
"No," Rufus shook his head, spreading out several witness accounts. "Something different entirely. The Blazing Arkynorean isn't his only transformation. There are reports of another form, one that might prove more immediately problematic for our guild."
Sting and Rogue, who had been practicing nearby, moved closer to listen. As Dragon Slayers, anything involving dragon-like power naturally piqued their interest.
"They're calling it the Dragonoid form," Rufus continued, his memory-make magic projecting a shadowy image of the transformation. "Unlike the divine manifestation of his Arkynorean state, this form appears to be a perfect fusion of his dark elf heritage, cosmic magic, and what witnesses describe as 'divine ki' – all channeled through a dragon crest he bears."
The projection showed Odyn's form shifting – his already pointed ears becoming more pronounced, scales of deep midnight blue appearing along his arms and face, his orange eyes taking on a more draconic appearance while cosmic energy swirled around him like a nebula given form.
"The most troubling part," Minerva observed, studying the projection, "is that this power seems to be innate. Not learned, not acquired, but something he was born with and has naturally developed."
Sting leaned against a bookshelf, his usual confident demeanor slightly shaken. "How does this compare to Dragon Force?"
"That's just it," Rufus replied, adjusting his mask. "It's different. While Dragon Force enhances a Dragon Slayer's power to approach that of a dragon, the Dragonoid form appears to be a true fusion of multiple magical lineages. It's as if his very existence bridges several powerful magical bloodlines."
Orga, who had been silently listening, finally spoke up. "The Grand Magic Games are coming up. If he enters..."
"Indeed," Minerva cut in, her tactical mind already racing. "Our claim to being Fiore's strongest guild could be challenged more seriously than we anticipated. Even if this form isn't as powerful as his Arkynorean state, its versatility could be more dangerous in a tournament setting."
Rogue, usually the most reserved of the group, stepped forward. "I've heard rumors about his fighting style in this form. He doesn't just rely on raw power – he combines dark elf agility with draconic strength and cosmic magic in ways that make him unpredictable."
"The dragon crest is key," Rufus noted, pointing to another document. "It seems to act as a focus point, allowing him to channel and blend these different magical energies without them conflicting with each other. It's like having three different types of magic working in perfect harmony."
Minerva paced the room, her mind working through strategies. "We need to prepare differently. Our usual approach of overwhelming force won't be enough. If we face him in the Games, we'll need to be more tactical."
"There's something else," Rufus added, his voice growing quieter. "According to these accounts, he developed this form before gaining the ability to use his Arkynorean power. This suggests..."
"He's still growing stronger," Minerva finished, a rare look of concern crossing her face. "If this is his 'lesser' form, and he's already this powerful..."
The elite members of Sabertooth fell into contemplative silence. The upcoming Grand Magic Games had suddenly become more than just a chance to prove their dominance – it was now a test of whether they could adapt to face a type of power they had never encountered before.
"We should observe him more closely," Minerva finally decided. "The Games will attract many powerful mages, but understanding Odyn's capabilities might be the key to maintaining our position. After all," she added with a slight smirk, "it's not just about power anymore – it's about proving we can overcome any challenge, even one as unique as this."
As they dispersed for the evening, the weight of their discovery hung in the air. The Grand Magic Games were approaching, and with them, the chance to witness this mysterious Dragonoid form firsthand. For Sabertooth, it was both a threat and an opportunity – a chance to prove they truly deserved their reputation as Fiore's strongest guild, not through mere power, but through their ability to face and overcome unprecedented magical abilities.
Little did they know, Odyn's Dragonoid form held even more secrets than they had uncovered – secrets that would soon come to light in the heat of tournament battle.
The early morning sun cast long shadows across Fairy Tail's training grounds as Odyn focused on maintaining his Dragonoid form. His dark blue hair whipped around him in an ethereal dance, responding to the magical energy coursing through his body. The dragon crest on his forehead pulsed with brilliant azure light, its glow reflecting off the beads of sweat on his bare torso.
The ethereal wings sprouting from the crest's focal point were the most challenging aspect to maintain – translucent appendages that seemed to be crafted from starlight and dragon scales simultaneously. They shifted between corporeal and ethereal states as Odyn worked to perfect his control, each pulse of energy sending ripples through the air around him.
"Your magical pressure has become more stable," Carla observed from a safe distance, her arms crossed as she analyzed his progress with her typical scrutiny. "Though you're still expending more energy than necessary to maintain the form."
Odyn nodded, his orange eyes now bearing draconic pupils that seemed to glow from within. "The fusion of dark elf magic and dragon power... it's like trying to direct two rivers to flow as one," he explained, his voice carrying a slight ethereal resonance in this form. "Add the cosmic energy to that, and it becomes even more complex."
A soft rustling of grass announced Wendy's approach. The young Dragon Slayer carried a water bottle and a towel, her cheeks tinting pink as she tried to maintain her composure despite her boyfriend's shirtless state. The morning sun highlighted the scaled patterns that had emerged along his arms and across his chest, giving him an otherworldly appearance that somehow made him even more handsome in her eyes.
"I... I brought you some water," Wendy managed to say, her blush deepening when Odyn turned to smile at her. Even in his Dragonoid form, his smile retained its gentle warmth, especially when directed at her.
"Thank you, Wendy," he said softly, the draconic resonance in his voice containing a note of affection that made her heart skip a beat. As he reached for the water bottle, the ethereal wings flickered, causing him to quickly redirect his focus to maintain them.
"You're getting better at multitasking while transformed," Wendy observed, her initial embarrassment giving way to genuine interest in his training. "Remember when you first tried this form? You could barely speak without the wings disappearing completely."
Odyn chuckled, the sound carrying a hint of both dragon's rumble and dark elf melody. "True. Though I still have a long way to go before I can maintain it as naturally as breathing." He took a long drink from the water bottle, then used the towel to wipe the sweat from his brow, careful not to disturb the glowing crest.
Carla flew closer, her analytical nature getting the better of her. "The crest seems to be the key. When your emotions are steady, its light is more consistent, and the form becomes more stable."
"That's right," Odyn confirmed, absently running a hand through his hair, causing Wendy to bite her lip as she watched the movement. "It's like a focal point where all three aspects of my power converge. The trick is maintaining the balance between them."
Wendy stepped closer, her medical training prompting her to monitor his condition. "Your magical energy feels different in this form – like a blend of natural dragon power and something more... ancient?"
"That would be my dark elf heritage," Odyn explained, the scales on his arms shimming as he demonstrated a simple movement. "Our magic has always been closely tied to the cosmic forces. The dragon crest somehow allows that power to harmonize with draconic energy instead of conflicting with it."
A gentle breeze swept through the training ground, carrying with it the scent of morning dew and magic. Wendy found herself captivated by how the wind played with the ethereal wings, causing them to ripple like auroras in the night sky. Without thinking, she reached out toward them.
Odyn remained perfectly still, allowing her to satisfy her curiosity. As her fingers approached the wings, she felt a warm tingle, like touching starlight given form. The sensation made her giggle, drawing a warm smile from Odyn that caused his orange eyes to shine even brighter.
"They're beautiful," she whispered, then immediately blushed again when she realized she'd said it out loud.
"Just don't let Gray or Natsu hear you say that," Odyn teased, his draconic features softening with affection. "They'll never let me hear the end of it."
As if on cue, a distant explosion followed by Natsu's characteristic laughter reminded them that they weren't the only ones training for the upcoming Games. Odyn shook his head in amusement, causing the ethereal wings to shimmer with the movement.
"Perhaps we should continue this somewhere with fewer... distractions," Carla suggested, eyeing the smoke rising from Natsu's direction with disapproval.
Wendy nodded, still trying not to stare too obviously at Odyn's transformed state. "Right! And maybe... maybe you should put a shirt on?" she suggested timidly, though her tone suggested she wasn't entirely convinced of her own recommendation.
Odyn laughed, the sound carrying both power and warmth. "Of course. Though I should probably power down first – last time I tried to put a shirt on in this form, the wings turned it to stardust."
The memory of that particular incident caused both of them to laugh, their joy causing the dragon crest to pulse with an even brighter light, as if responding to their shared happiness.
Wendy sat down on a nearby training bench, her curiosity piqued as she watched the scales on Odyn's arms shimmer with internal energy. "The way your power works... is it similar to our Dragon Force?" she asked, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.
Odyn's orange eyes softened thoughtfully as he considered her question, the dragon crest on his forehead pulsing gently as he formulated his response. "They're related, but fundamentally different," he explained, creating a small orb of cosmic energy in his palm to demonstrate. "Think of Dragon Force as borrowing characteristics from dragons – it's like wearing dragon armor, in a way. You're channeling their power, their attributes, their strength."
The orb in his palm shifted, taking on the shape of a miniature dragon. "But this," he gestured to his transformed state, the ethereal wings flexing slightly, "the Dragon Crest and the Dragonoid form... they're more like having a dragon's essence integrated into your very being. I'm not borrowing dragon power – I'm containing it within myself as a vessel, letting it merge with my other magical energies to create something new."
Carla, who had settled on the bench beside Wendy, leaned forward with interest. "So it's more like being a dragon in humanoid form than a human using dragon power?"
"Exactly," Odyn nodded, causing ripples of azure light to dance across his scaled features. "The crest acts as both a seal and a conduit, allowing me to maintain that essence without it overwhelming my other magical aspects. It's a true fusion rather than a temporary enhancement."
Wendy's eyes widened as she processed this information, her mind racing with possibilities. "Then... do you think..." she hesitated, then gathered her courage. "Do you think there might be a way for Dragon Slayers to access something similar? To tap into a deeper connection with our dragon power?"
The question brought a warm smile to Odyn's face, his draconic pupils dilating slightly with affection as he looked at his girlfriend. "Actually, I believe you already have that potential within you, Wendy." He knelt down to her eye level, the ethereal wings folding close to his back. "Dragon Force is just the surface of what Dragon Slayers can achieve. The power Grandeeney gave you... it's not just a gift, it's become part of who you are."
"But I'm not as strong as Natsu or Gajeel," Wendy protested softly, though there was a hint of hope in her voice.
"Strength isn't just about raw power," Odyn replied, reaching out to take her hand. Where their skin touched, there was a subtle resonance between his dragon essence and her Dragon Slayer magic. "Your healing magic, your support enchantments, your ability to adapt and grow – these are all expressions of dragon power that are uniquely yours. With the right training, focusing on your specific abilities rather than trying to match other Dragon Slayers..."
"She could potentially surpass conventional Dragon Force entirely," Carla finished, her analytical mind quickly grasping the implications.
Odyn nodded, his orange eyes gleaming with conviction. "Exactly. Dragon Slayer magic isn't just about replicating dragon abilities – it's about forming a deep connection with the essence of dragons themselves. And Wendy," he squeezed her hand gently, causing her to blush, "you already have one of the strongest spiritual connections to dragon magic I've ever seen."
"You really think I could become that strong?" Wendy asked, her voice mixture of hope and uncertainty.
"I don't think – I know," Odyn affirmed, the dragon crest flaring briefly with his conviction. "Your potential isn't limited by what others can do. It's about discovering your own path to power, just as I had to learn to balance my different magical aspects to create this form."
Wendy's eyes shone with renewed determination. "Will you... will you help me train? To find my own way?"
"Of course," Odyn smiled, his draconic features softening with affection. "We can start by examining how your magic naturally flows, then work on deepening your connection to its source. Every Dragon Slayer's path is unique – yours might lead to abilities we haven't even imagined yet."
Carla nodded approvingly, though she couldn't resist adding, "Just remember to be careful. We don't need you turning things to stardust like someone else we know."
Their laughter echoed across the training ground, and as Wendy looked at Odyn's transformed state with new understanding, she felt a surge of excitement about her own potential. The power of dragons flowed through both of them in different ways, but perhaps that made them uniquely suited to help each other grow stronger.
As the morning sun climbed higher, Odyn began explaining the basics of sensing one's magical essence, his dragon crest glowing softly as he demonstrated. Wendy listened intently, her heart full of both determination and gratitude – determination to discover her own path to power, and gratitude for having someone who believed in her potential so completely.
The Fairy Tail guild hall buzzed with anticipation as members trained with renewed vigor. The announcement of the Grand Magic Games had ignited a competitive fire in everyone, but perhaps none trained with more focus than Wendy under Odyn's guidance.
"Remember," Odyn instructed, his dragon crest glowing faintly as he demonstrated a stance, "dragon magic responds to both physical and emotional states. When you channel your Sky Dragon power, don't just think about the air around you – feel how it connects to your own inner storm."
Wendy nodded, her blue hair swaying as she mimicked his position. After their discussion about Dragon Force and its true potential, she'd thrown herself into training with newfound determination. The "Key of the Starry Heavens" incident had shown her both her strengths and weaknesses, and she was determined to grow stronger.
"You've already got incredible potential," Odyn continued, watching as she gathered her magic. "During the Starry Heavens crisis, your power wasn't just about healing or support – you showed real combat prowess too."
Wendy blushed at the praise but maintained her focus. The air around her began to swirl, responding to her magic in increasingly precise patterns. "I still remember how you helped me during that fight," she said, her voice steady despite the magical energy she was channeling. "When you showed me how to use the air currents to enhance my mobility..."
"And you picked it up faster than anyone I've ever seen," Odyn smiled, his orange eyes gleaming with pride. "That's why I'm certain you'll be chosen for the Games."
Nearby, other guild members were engaged in their own intense training sessions. Natsu's fire lit up one corner of the training grounds as he sparred with Gray, while Erza methodically worked through her weapon forms. Gajeel could be heard putting Levy through her paces, his gruff encouragement mixing with the sound of solid script magic.
Lucy sat at a table with Mirajane, both of them studying reports from previous Games. "The format changes every year," Mira explained, pointing to various documents. "We need to be prepared for anything."
"The selection process is going to be tough," Lucy mused, glancing around at her fellow guild members. "Everyone's gotten so much stronger."
Back in their corner of the training ground, Odyn guided Wendy through another exercise. "Try channeling your magic like this," he suggested, briefly activating his Dragonoid form to demonstrate how he balanced different magical energies. The ethereal wings sprouted from his dragon crest, and he showed her how the power flowed through specific pathways.
"I can feel it!" Wendy exclaimed as she adapted the technique to her Sky Dragon magic. The air around her suddenly compressed and expanded in a controlled burst, far more precise than her usual attacks.
"That's it!" Odyn encouraged, letting his transformation fade. "You're not just using dragon power – you're understanding it, making it truly yours."
Makarov watched all of this from the second floor of the guild hall, his expression thoughtful. Beside him, Laxus leaned against the railing, also observing the training sessions below.
"They've all grown stronger," Laxus commented. "Choosing just five members..."
"Four, actually," Makarov corrected, stroking his mustache. "The rules state we need one reserve member as well. But yes, the choice won't be easy."
"The old Fairy Tail made quite a mess of our reputation," Laxus noted, his eyes tracking the various training sessions. "Whoever we choose needs to be ready to face that pressure."
Makarov nodded sagely. "It's not just about power – we need members who can adapt, who can think on their feet. The Games will throw unexpected challenges at us."
Down below, Odyn worked with Wendy on another technique, this one combining her healing magic with offensive capabilities in a way she'd never considered before. The young Dragon Slayer's progress was remarkable, each new lesson building on the last in ways that surprised even her.
"Master's watching," Carla observed from her perch on a nearby bench. "He's been paying close attention to everyone's training."
"The selection announcement will be soon," Odyn agreed, helping Wendy perfect her stance. "But right now, focus on this. The Games are important, but your growth as a mage matters more."
Wendy smiled at him, grateful for his guidance and support. "Right! Though... I hope we both get chosen. We make a good team."
"That we do," Odyn agreed, his dragon crest pulsing briefly with warmth. "But whatever happens, Fairy Tail will show Fiore what we're really capable of."
As the sun began to set on another day of intense training, speculation ran wild through the guild about who would be chosen to represent them. The pressure of redemption weighed heavily on everyone's minds, but it was mixed with excitement and determination. Fairy Tail was back, and the Grand Magic Games would be their chance to prove it to the world.
Makarov watched his children train with pride, knowing that whoever he chose would carry not just the guild's hopes, but its very spirit into the arena. The selection would be announced soon, and with it, Fairy Tail's path to reclaiming their place among Fiore's strongest would begin.
The guild hall fell into an expectant hush as Makarov stood on the second-floor balcony, his small frame carrying the weight of a decision that had kept him up for several nights. Below, the gathered members of Fairy Tail waited with barely contained anticipation, many standing close to their preferred teammates.
Wendy unconsciously moved closer to Odyn, her hand brushing against his. The dragon crest on his forehead pulsed faintly in response to her proximity, a phenomenon that hadn't gone unnoticed by their guildmates. Their relationship status had become something of an open secret within the guild – everyone knew, but respected their privacy enough not to make a big deal of it, save for Mirajane's knowing smiles and Happy's occasional teasing "They liiiiiike each other" comments.
Nearby, Team Natsu clustered together, their usual dynamic on full display even in this tense moment – Natsu bouncing on his heels with barely contained energy, Gray affecting casual indifference while secretly just as excited, Lucy fidgeting nervously, and Erza standing tall with arms crossed, the picture of composure.
The Thunder Legion positioned themselves near Laxus, their loyalty and teamwork evident in their synchronized stance. Freed's hand rested on his sword hilt, Bickslow's totems hovering quietly for once, and Evergreen fanning herself with forced nonchalance.
Gajeel leaned against a pillar, trying to look disinterested, but his eyes kept darting between Levy and the Master. Pantherlily stood beside him, arms crossed, while Levy clutched a book to her chest, her small frame vibrating with nervous energy.
Makarov cleared his throat, drawing all eyes to him. "My children," he began, his voice carrying the weight of careful consideration, "choosing our representatives for the Grand Magic Games has not been an easy task. Each of you has shown tremendous growth and dedication in your training."
He paused, his eyes sweeping over the gathered mages. "I've had to consider not just individual strength, but team dynamics, adaptability, and how to best showcase what Fairy Tail truly stands for."
The tension in the room heightened as Makarov straightened to his full height, such as it was. "After much deliberation, I've chosen the following members to represent Fairy Tail in the Grand Magic Games."
Everyone held their breath as Makarov raised his hand, holding up one finger for each name.
"First: Erza Scarlet!"
A murmur of approval rippled through the crowd. No one seemed surprised by this choice – Erza's combination of strength, experience, and tactical thinking made her an obvious selection.
"Second: Odyn!"
The dark elf's orange eyes widened slightly, his dragon crest glowing briefly with emotion. Wendy squeezed his hand, beaming up at him with pride.
"Third: Wendy Marvell!"
A small gasp escaped Wendy's lips as her name was called, her cheeks flushing pink. Odyn's gentle squeeze of her hand and proud smile made the moment even sweeter.
"Fourth: Gray Fullbuster!"
Gray nodded seriously, already unconsciously removing his shirt before Cana elbowed him to stop.
"And as our reserve member: Lucy Heartfilia!"
Lucy's surprised "Eh?!" was almost drowned out by the supportive cheers of her guildmates.
Makarov raised his hand for silence before continuing. "Now, you might be wondering about certain absences from this lineup. Natsu, Gajeel, Laxus – your power is unquestionable, but this team was selected not just for raw strength, but for its balance and ability to handle any situation the Games might throw at us."
He smiled at the chosen team. "Erza's leadership and combat experience, Odyn's unique abilities and tactical mind, Wendy's combination of support and offensive capabilities, Gray's versatility and cool head under pressure, and Lucy's resourcefulness and adaptability as our reserve – together, you represent the very best of what Fairy Tail stands for."
Natsu, surprisingly, grinned and slapped Gray on the back. "You better not mess this up, ice princess! Show them what Fairy Tail's made of!"
"The rest of you," Makarov addressed the guild at large, "will have crucial roles to play as well. The Games aren't just about the arena battles – we'll need everyone's support and skills for whatever challenges await us in Crocus."
The guild erupted in cheers and congratulations, with members rushing to congratulate the chosen team. In the excitement, few noticed the moment Wendy turned to Odyn, standing on her tiptoes to plant a quick kiss on his cheek – their first public display of affection, if an unintentional one. Happy, however, didn't miss it, his gleeful "They're in loooooove!" causing both of them to blush furiously.
Makarov watched it all with a satisfied smile. The team he'd chosen represented not just powerful individuals, but strong partnerships and complementary abilities. Odyn and Wendy's synergy, both magical and personal, would be a secret weapon. Erza's ability to lead while adapting to her teammates' strengths, Gray's reliable support and combat skills, and Lucy's versatility as a reserve member – it was a balanced team that could handle anything the Games might throw at them.
"Master," Mirajane spoke softly beside him, "you've given them quite a task."
Makarov nodded, watching as his chosen team gathered together, already beginning to discuss strategy. "They're ready, Mira. This team will show Fiore what Fairy Tail is truly capable of."
As the officially announced team departed amid cheers and well-wishes from their guildmates, Makarov drew five other members aside quietly, a mischievous glint in his eyes that went unnoticed by most. Natsu's characteristic grin grew wider as he received his secret instructions, for once managing to keep his excitement contained enough to not give away the surprise.
Meanwhile, the primary team made their way toward Crocus, the capital city of Fiore gleaming in the distance. The early morning sun caught the spires of the palace, making them sparkle like fairy lights against the sky.
"I still can't believe we're really doing this," Wendy said, walking close to Odyn. Her excitement was tinged with nervous energy that made the air around her occasionally swirl in tiny eddies.
"You've more than earned your place," Odyn assured her, his dragon crest catching the sunlight. "Your progress these past weeks has been remarkable."
Erza led the group with purposeful strides, already in team captain mode. "We should discuss preliminary strategy before reaching the city. The Games often include preliminary rounds that can be quite... unexpected."
"That's putting it mildly," Gray commented, for once fully clothed as they traveled. "I've heard stories about previous years. They change the format constantly to keep guilds on their toes."
Lucy, walking alongside them as reserve member, clutched her celestial keys. "I've been reading about past Games. Some of the challenges tested not just magic power, but creativity and teamwork too."
"Which is exactly why Master chose this specific combination," Erza noted, pausing to survey their surroundings. The road to Crocus stretched before them, other competing guilds visible in the distance making their own way to the capital. "We each bring different strengths to the team."
Odyn nodded, his orange eyes scanning the horizon. "The key will be learning to combine our abilities effectively. Wendy and I have practiced combination attacks, but we should all work on developing similar synergies."
"Speaking of which," Gray interjected with a slight smirk, "are you two ever going to officially announce what everyone already knows?"
Wendy's face turned bright red, while Odyn's dragon crest pulsed with a brief flash of embarrassed energy. "I... we..." Wendy stammered.
"Gray," Erza's tone held a warning note, though her eyes sparkled with amusement. "Let them handle their relationship at their own pace. We have more pressing matters to discuss."
"Like how we're going to show everyone what Fairy Tail is really made of," Lucy added supportively, giving Wendy a warm smile.
As they continued their journey, none of them suspected that back at the guild, Natsu was practically vibrating with the effort of keeping the secret of Team B. Makarov's clever strategy would ensure Fairy Tail had double the chances of success, while also showcasing more of their guild's tremendous talent pool.
"Remember," Erza addressed her team as the capital's gates came into view, "we're not just representing ourselves or even just Fairy Tail. We're carrying the hopes of every member who endured seven years of mockery while we were away."
Odyn's expression grew serious, his dragon crest dimming slightly as he remembered some of the stories they'd heard. "They won't be disappointed," he said firmly, unconsciously taking Wendy's hand. "We'll show them the true spirit of Fairy Tail."
The city of Crocus sprawled before them in all its glory, streets already buzzing with excitement for the upcoming Games. Flags representing various guilds fluttered in the breeze, and the air was thick with anticipation. Somewhere in the crowd, their competition waited – including guilds like Sabertooth, who would be watching Odyn particularly closely after the rumors they'd heard.
"First things first," Erza declared as they approached the city gates, "we need to find our lodgings and register officially. Then we can begin preparing for whatever preliminary challenge awaits us."
What they didn't know was that several hours behind them, a second group of Fairy Tail mages was making their own way to Crocus, led by a fire dragon slayer whose characteristic grin threatened to give away their secret with every step.
The Grand Magic Games were about to begin, and Fairy Tail was bringing twice the power anyone expected – even if only Makarov and Team B knew it for now.
To be continued in Chapter 6: Team B and the Journey to Crocus