Killers and Kittens

Boom!

A powerful blow tore a massive gash through Crocus's city district, destroying countless buildings as a deep ravine carved through half of Crocus.

Both the spectators and judges stared blankly at the image on the projection.

It was impossible to imagine that a single person with a single sword could unleash such an attack. This was likely the most terrifying strike since the Grand Magic Games began.

Even Laxus and Orga, as well as Gajeel and Rogue, who had been confronting one another, stopped and looked toward Erza's location.

"Hey, hey... wasn't that a little too exaggerated?"

Cold sweat trickled down Orga's forehead. Why were this year's Grand Magic Games so different from before? They were all monsters.

"Oh~ She's quite capable, isn't she?"

Compared to Orga, Laxus remained exceptionally calm.

"You really aren't worried at all, are you? Wasn't your companion the one getting beaten up?"

The contestants could see the projection as well, so Orga knew very clearly that Kagura had been suppressing Erza the entire time.

"Hah? Don't joke around. That woman has far more ability than that!"

Laxus smiled at the smoke on the projection.

As the smoke cleared, Erza had already changed into Clear Heart Clothing, with Red Tassel blocking Kagura's attack.

"OOOOOOOH!!!"

"What an incredible feat! Contestant Erza blocked that terrifying attack!"

The audience erupted in cheers. Because of the dreadful feeling Kagura had given them earlier, she already seemed like a villain in their eyes.

"What?!"

Seeing her full-powered strike blocked so easily by Erza, even Kagura, whose mind had been controlled by resentment, found it utterly unbelievable.

"I'm sorry. This isn't what I wanted, but please calm down!"

Slash!

The sharp cursed blade bypassed Heaven's Nemesis and sliced directly across Kagura's body.

"AAAAAH!"

The sudden slash sent Kagura into a