The big day had arrived for the Fairy Tail guild. After everyone had been taking on quests like crazy, today they would finally find out who the candidates for the S-Class Mage Promotion Exam would be.
The atmosphere in the guild was lively. No one was causing trouble; everyone was sitting around waiting for the Guild Master to show up.
Gray, Loke, Macao, and Wakaba were sitting at a table, waiting to be chosen.
Levy, Jet, and Droy were at another table, hoping Levy would be selected so they could be her teammate.
Natsu was pacing back and forth patience was something completely foreign to him. Every few steps, fire burst from his fists or mouth as he itching to burn something or someone.
Happy could only watch Natsu and pray he wouldn't cause any trouble.
Alzack and Bisca were in a corner of the guild dressed in their cowboy attire, awaiting the announcement.
Mirajane was behind the bar counter looking over everyone in the guild, remembering the day she went through the exact same thing.
Elfman was sitting at the bar counter with his sister, Alex, and Cana.
Reedus was drawing the lively atmosphere filling the guild.
In another corner stood the Raijinshū Freed, Bickslow, and Evergreen.
Guild Master Makarov Dreyar saw that everyone was gathered. Deciding not to prolong the wait any further, he took a step forward and stood on the second-floor railing.
"Listen up, brats!!!"
Everyone turned their gaze upward; Makarov had finally come out. The moment they had all been waiting for was finally here.
"Finally, Master! Hurry up and give us the names!!!"
"Just tell me who I have to fight to become an S-Class Mage already!" Natsu shouted, spitting fire from his mouth.
Gray laughed at Natsu. "How about you beat Erza or Laxus? Do that, and you'll definitely be recognized as an S-Class Mage."
Natsu wasn't stupid. "Droopy-eyes idiot! Why don't you go fight them yourself?!"
Natsu and Gray were about to start a brawl, but the Master's voice silenced them.
"Silence, brats!!!"
After the scolding, no one dared to speak another word. "I will now announce the candidates for the S-Class Mage Promotion Exam."
"It is a tradition in the Fairy Tail guild: every year, an opportunity is given to the most outstanding mages those who possess the ambition to step forward and reach higher in the magical world."
Makarov, despite his small body, spoke with a loud, clear voice as he looked down at his children waiting to be chosen.
"After careful consideration and discussions with Erza, Laxus, and Mirajane, we have decided to give the following mages a chance."
"Freed Justine."
When the first name was called, the Raijinshū celebrated. They turned to look up at Laxus, who stood beside Makarov and Erza on the second floor.
Freed's gaze signaled that he would not betray his trust and would become an S-Class Mage.
"Natsu Dragneel."
Natsu burst into flames, ready to start the exam right then and there.
"Gray Fullbuster."
At Gray's table, he raised a fist, showing he was ready for the next challenge.
Loke, sitting beside him, congratulated him with a few pats on the back.
"Cana Alberona."
Cana already knew she would be participating. After three failed attempts, she was confident this time she hadn't made her preparations for nothing.
"Alzack Connell."
Bisca congratulated him and wished him luck for the exam, while he thanked her, feeling a bit flustered.
"Macao Conbolt."
Wakaba expressed his annoyance. "Hey, aren't you a bit too old to participate? You're practically at retirement age."
Macao grew angry at the hurtful comment. "You're just jealous you weren't chosen!"
Wakaba ignored him, hoping to be the next one picked. Unfortunately for him, that wasn't going to happen.
"Those are all the candidates for this year!!"
Some members turned to look at Alex; their eyes suggested he could have easily been considered for the S-Class Exam.
Alex simply shrugged at the stares.
Seeing the situation, Makarov clarified: "Alex Weiss. Even though you have successfully completed numerous quests and possess the strength required to take the S-Class Exam, we feel you still lack experience."
"Don't be discouraged, my son. Next year, you are guaranteed to be nominated for the S-Class Exam you have my word as Guild Master."
Makarov promised. It hadn't been his decision alone; Erza had also influenced it, asking him not to nominate Alex just yet at least until he gained more experience completing quests.
Those who weren't selected looked at Alex with envy, while the selected candidates felt relieved.
That monster wouldn't be taking the exam this time, giving them a much better chance at passing without his involvement.
"Now, candidates, step into my office. We will discuss the details of the exam in private."
Then, the Guild Master looked at Laxus and Erza. "You two know what to do. Head out first, and I will catch up with you later."
Erza and Laxus nodded, leaving the guild to handle the preparations for the S-Class Exam.
Erza glanced at Alex; she had already told him she would be away for a while, remaining out of the guild for the duration of the exam.
Alex bade farewell to Erza and watched her depart.
Cana felt a wave of relief that Erza was leaving early, meaning she wouldn't interfere with her teaming up with Alex.
She and the others entered Makarov's office.
Everyone waited outside until they emerged to find out what the S-Class Exam would entail.
After some time, the six candidates came out and headed to different parts of the guild.
Natsu went up to Happy. "Natsu! What's the exam about?!"
Natsu shook his head. "I can't say, it's a secret. It's part of the exam, so don't ask any more it's time to go."
Happy understood and followed Natsu out of the guild.
Cana walked over to Alex. No words were needed; the two left the guild together.
Gray, Alzack, Freed, and Macao each approached a fellow guild member, whispered a few words, and then left as well.
They left the guild in total silence and intrigue over the complete lack of information regarding the exam.