Laxus's name was called—Natsu cheered, "Laxus is in!"
As Fairy Tail's idol and second only to Su Yan and Gildarts in strength, the crowd buzzed with excitement.
From the stands, Yakima whispered to Captain Rahal, "Have your enforcers taken positions?"
Rahal nodded, voice low: "Yes—ready to intervene if Raven Tail makes any suspicious move."
Meanwhile, Master Makarov tapped his communications wristband. "Valen, report!"
"HQ to Bisca—status?"
Through sniper's scope, Bisca monitored Raven Tail's president, Ivan. "No unusual activity."
Makarov grimaced. Ivan eyed Laxus's Dragon Slayer power since yesterday…
Freed bristled nearby: "Laxus's resolve must not be tested—let him strike true!"
First-generation master Mavis chuckled. "Oh, to protect one's friends… how delightful."
Su Yan caught their worried glances and offered a calm smile. "Don't fret. Even if they try something sly, my senses won't miss it."
Ring Command
"Both warriors, step forward. Fight!"
The bell rang.
Alexis of Raven Tail snapped forward, startling everyone—Laxus, famed for lightning speed, was struck full on and backed off.
Gasps echoed. Laxus—hit so easily?
Then Alexis rained blow after blow, and Laxus seemed to struggle, unable to counter.
Erza's face drained of color. This isn't right…
Natsu and Gray snapped their attention to Su Yan, confusion in their eyes.
Su Yan simply smiled. "Watch closely."
Laxus's image flickered—then vanished. In its place, Alexis's strikes met only air.
Natsu leapt to his feet. "Su Yan—what are you doing?!"
Erza demanded, "Is this an illusion?"
Su Yan nodded. "Yes. Phantom Magic. Only the illusion fights; the real Laxus stands untouched."
Laxus, offstage, blinked in disbelief at his own phantom. "What trick is this?"
Su Yan continued, "This little ruse fooled the audience—and Alexis thought he'd bested a paralyzed Laxus. But your true form never moved."
As the phantom dispersed, cheers erupted for the thwarted trick. Alexis stood stunned—his gambit revealed, his honor shattered before the crowd.
In that moment, Fairies and Dragons alike learned a vital lesson: in the Great Magic Games, the greatest power lies not just in strength, but in the bond of comrades who watch each other's backs.