Crisis of the Heartfilia Family

"Guild Master Makarov, I've found Guild Master Ivan's whereabouts."

After taking the small slip of paper from Iron Block, the Great Guild Master nodded. "You've worked hard!"

"It was nothing!"

Watching the figure waving his arm as he left, Makarov asked, "Are you really not going to consider joining the parade?"

"I'll pass... This kind of thing really doesn't suit me at all!"

"Really...? I seem to remember you performing onstage not long ago, don't I?" (The Guild Master wore a teasing expression.)

After steadying himself from a stumble, Gajeel quickly left the float procession.

"Ah... What a shame. He would've made a perfect finale!"

Once he finished lamenting, flames burst from Makarov's head.

"You lazy bastard, if you want to sleep, go back to the dorms! Stop loitering in front of me!!!"

"Guild Master, I'm just here to watch the parade. Is that really so bad?" (Someone yawned endlessly.)

"Hmph! Shouldn't you be taking part in the parade, brat?"

Hearing that, Lazy God opened one eye and asked, "Can I really, Guild Master?"

Seeing the corners of his mouth begin to curl upward, Makarov involuntarily recalled that parade from several years ago. In an instant, his entire face darkened.

"If you're watching the parade, then watch it properly. No causing trouble!"

"Yaaawn~"

"In that case, I'll go keep my appointment. Goodbye, Guild Master!"

Watching the silver-white figure vanish from atop the float, Makarov let out a relieved breath.

"Forget it. It's time for me to take up my battle position too!"

With that, the Great Guild Master pulled his hat down over his head and nimbly climbed onto the float.

Palace of Shining Lights, Mercurias

"Your Majesty, Commander Arcadius requests an audience!"

"Oh?"

Composing himself, Toma returned to his throne and said solemnly, "Let him enter!"

"Yes!"

A