Outskirts of the Catanado Mountains
"This must be the place! Ah, the air is so fresh… and the scenery! It's so relaxing to just look around."
"Indeed… the scent of the grass and trees is so refreshing, I feel instantly relaxed." Erza tilted her head back and took a deep breath, her tense muscles gradually unwinding.
"Once this mission is done, I'll have to talk to the Guild Master about organizing a group camping trip somewhere scenic… hmm, Celestial Wolf Island might be perfect. Back in my old world, life was always busy, always on the move, no time to enjoy anything… sigh." Kael surveyed the surroundings, already thinking about the camping trip once their current mission was complete.
Suddenly, a loud crash of fighting and a roar reminiscent of Godzilla echoed from deep within the mountains.
"Erza, something's happening over there! That must be the direction. I'll go check it out." Kael's eyes caught unusual movement among the trees to their left. Without hesitation, he shot into the sky like a streak of light, disappearing from sight with a sonic whoosh.
Erza immediately activated her transformation magic: "Black Wing Armor—Flight Mode", following Kael at high speed.
When they arrived, a three-meter-tall lizard was locked in battle with an equally massive python.
"Deep crimson scales, with a subtle purple sheen in the sunlight… according to the mission description, this must be the lizard." Kael and Erza ducked behind a rock, comparing the creature to the mission sheet. It matched perfectly.
"Erza, I'll take the lizard, you handle the python. One each—shouldn't be a problem. Be careful with your strength—both skins will sell for a good price." Kael nodded after she agreed, and they quickly divided the monsters' fates as if splitting apples.
Once Erza nodded, Kael flashed into motion, a streak of light zipping behind the python. Instantly materializing, he kicked the lizard square in the head. The creature flew like a cannonball, smashing through trees, leaving only a deep gash in the earth. It crashed hard to the ground, motionless.
"Black Wing—Moon Flash!" Erza retaliated without hesitation, dashing forward with linear thrusts and crossing slashes that tore the python apart within moments.
"Hmm… I think I underestimated this lizard. Missing a head now… should be fine." Kael muttered, glancing at the decapitated lizard, slightly embarrassed.
Erza's precision was impeccable—without comparison, there's no damage.
"Everything should be fine. The lizard's skin is enough for the merchant, and the python's as valuable. Looks like we've exceeded the mission target." Erza calmly said as she tied up the two beasts into a small heap.
"Kael, how strong are you now? Let's spar—show me all your strength." Erza's tone became serious, the weight of the world seemingly pressing on her shoulders as she issued her challenge.
Kael knew the hardships the girl had faced before joining the guild. He also knew that taking this seriously was the only way to respond. "Alright. I accept your challenge. I'll give it my all."
Kael unleashed all his magical power. A terrifying aura erupted, rippling through the surroundings.
"You really are strong… probably on the verge of S-Class! Let me see just how close I am to that threshold." Erza said, jumping and activating her transformation magic.
"Celestial Wheel Armor—Blade Assault!"
Countless swords rained down like a storm, their tips gleaming coldly, aimed directly at Kael.
Kael crossed his hands over his chest: "Eight-Foot Jewel Orb", countless spheres of light intercepting every sword with precise explosions, smoke curling around them.
"Transformation—Thunder Emperor Armor!" Erza's new armor, pale green with lightning patterns, shimmered around her. She vanished like lightning, spear in hand, thrusting at Kael's face. Kael formed a blade of light to block it, energy waves splintering nearby trees and rocks.
The two clashed dozens of times in an instant. Despite her skill, Erza couldn't overcome Kael, crashing into the ground, dust swirling.
"Erza, are you okay?" Kael appeared beside her, concerned. Seeing only minor scuffs on her armor, he relaxed slightly.
"I'm fine… not over yet. But Kael, your martial skill is incredible. Let's finish this with one decisive strike." Erza confirmed she was unharmed, ready to gauge Kael's full strength.
"Alright, your call." Kael nodded, rising into the air, gathering a brilliant orb of light in his hands.
"Holy Light Magic—Radiant Stars"
Erza gripped her weapon tightly, summoning every ounce of magic, unwilling to yield.
"This is strong… but I won't lose either."
(Reader note: there's more beyond this chapter—click next page for more!)
"Transformation—Starlight Armor: Photon Sword" Erza's dual light beams, infused with lightning, shot forward at high speed. The impact cracked the ground instantly. She maintained focus for a few moments until the energy waned.
"Holy Light Magic—Holy Shield" Kael appeared beside her, unleashing his strongest defensive magic. Their powers collided, locked in a tense stalemate.
"Reflect!" Kael thrust outward, redirecting the stellar attack into a nearby mountain.
Boom! A massive explosion, roaring winds, and Erza could no longer stand, collapsing onto the ground.
"I lost… even with all my armor, I couldn't gauge your strength. You're a monster, just thirteen, and already S-Class in magical power, technique, and martial skill." Erza stood and smiled at Kael, relieved.
"Your magic is remarkable too—your transformations and mastery are advanced, Erza." Kael paused before adding, "Don't push yourself too hard. Give yourself three years, and I'm sure you'll reach S-Class. You have your guild family supporting you, so enjoy life." He healed her wounds and lifted the tied monsters, heading out of the forest.
Much later…
"The mission bonus is deducted," Erza said, speeding ahead of Kael.
"Why?" Kael called after her.
"For repairing this area…"
"But it's wilderness…"
"No reason…"
"Wait for me, Erza!"
Back in town…
Kael looked down at his reduced reward, then glanced at Erza happily shopping. Well… as long as she enjoys it.
They picked up local specialties and gifts for the guild, then rode quickly back to Magnolia, eager to return to their guildmates.
A few days later, at the Fairy Tail Guild:
Kael, backpack on, approached the guild doors. Time had flown—he had already been in this world for a year.
Suddenly, a pink blur dashed toward him. He reached out, catching it gently and easing the momentum.
Looking at the pink-haired boy, towel around his neck, Kael thought, Natsu joined the guild?