The stands instantly erupted in thunderous cheers.
"That's a top-tier powerhouse on the level of the Ten Wizard Saints!"
"Lamia Scale is really getting serious this time!"
In the Fairy Tail Team A stands, Natsu could no longer suppress his restless heart.
He leaped straight onto the railing, brimming with spirit.
"Haha! It's finally my turn to show what I can do! Watch me—"
Before he could leap down, a hand wearing an armored gauntlet pressed firmly onto his shoulder.
"Natsu, stand down."
Erza's steady, grave voice came from behind him.
Natsu looked utterly confused and turned his head, shouting.
"Why, Erza?! I'm in amazing shape today! Let me go down there and blow those monsters away!"
"I will fight this round."
Erza's expression was solemn, her gaze sharp.
"The opponents include a Ten Wizard Saint powerhouse like Jura, as well as dangerous figures from Raven Tail."
"This battle concerns Team A's points. We absolutely cannot afford a mistake."
Natsu looked at the brooking-no-argument look in her eyes. Though his heart was full of unwillingness, he could only obediently back down.
"Tch, boring. Then you'd better take down a few more monsters."
In the Mermaid Heel stands, Millianna volunteered to fight.
"Leave this round to me, meow! I'll definitely get a good score, meow!"
Kagura nodded slightly and reminded her softly.
"Act carefully. Do not force yourself."
In the Sabertooth stands, the atmosphere was especially heavy and oppressive.
Though Minerva had forcibly suppressed the matter of Jiemma being beaten badly by Lu Chongwei last night, it had still dealt a severe blow to the morale of the entire guild.
Orga's chest was filled with pent-up fury, and he abruptly stood.
"I'm going in this round!"
Sting frowned and looked at him.
"Orga, you..."
"Don't try to talk me out of