Chapter 294: Triumph
A deafening crack split the air as Su Yan's fist collided with the Eclipse Gate. Within moments, the massive portal shattered into jagged fragments.
"Remarkable!" gasped King Thomas, stepping back as the last remnants of the Gate collapsed. Though it had stood for centuries, a single punch by Su Yan was enough to destroy it.
"Now no one can tamper with the past," Su Yan said, turning to the assembled mages. Relief flooded their faces.
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Days later, Magnolia's streets lay scarred by the battle, but life slowly returned. Citizens began to rebuild their homes even as rumors of a grand royal banquet spread through the city.
"I heard a dragon attacked during our evacuation!" one merchant whispered.
"Nonsense," another scoffed. "But it's true they're hosting a feast at the palace."
Curiosity mingled with awe—mages rarely dined in the royal chambers.
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In the glittering banquet hall, every participant in the Dragon King Festival gathered, dressed in their finery. Tables groaned under platters of roasted boar and towers of crystal goblets.
"Can you believe they summoned *us* here?" Makarov laughed, passing Rufus a goblet of wine.
"It's a once-in-a-lifetime honor," Rufus agreed, raising his cup.
Nearby, Natsu and Elfman challenged each other over who could eat the most. Cana downed goblets of the palace's best vintages, while Bacchus teased her endlessly.
Su Yan sat between Erza and Millianna, wiping sauce from his lips.
"Take it slow," Millianna chided with a smile. "There's more than enough food."
Su Yan grinned, evidently enjoying every moment.
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Princess Hisui approached Su Yan, bowing deeply. "Thank you, Su Yan. Your courage saved the kingdom."
Su Yan inclined his head. "Fairy Tail defends Fiore—that's our duty."
"I hope you enjoy the banquet," she said warmly before drifting away.
Moments later, Rogue of Sabertooth bowed stiffly.
"Su Yan…should I ever stray into darkness, please end me."
Su Yan looked puzzled. "Your companions matter most—hold fast to them."
Rogue's eyes glistened. "I understand," he said, bowing again.
One by one, guild captains came forward—Leon and Jura from Lamia Scale, Kagura and Araña from Mermaid Heel—all offering their thanks. Makarov and the other Grand Masters watched with quiet pride, seeing the next generation forging bonds.
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King Thomas rose to speak, his voice booming over the hall. "Thanks to these brave mages, Fiore stands strong. Let us celebrate this victory!"
Cheers erupted as music swelled. For three days, the palace echoed with laughter, song, and dance—guildmates mingling with knights, and friends old and new raising their glasses to peace.
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When the festivities ended, each guild departed for their own halls. As Fairy Tail returned down Magnolia's boulevard, the townspeople lined the streets, chanting:
"Fairy Tail Won!"
"Welcome home!"