Grand Magic Games arc

The  is the twelfth story arc of the Fairy Tail series. The arc details what have happened in the Seven Years since the end of the Tenrou Island arc and the possibility that those who've disappeared on the island may be alive after all.

Two New Dragon Slayers: The Strongest Guild
In an unknown region, two men are talking to each other about the return of the missing Fairy Tail members. But the one named Rogue Cheney isn't interested.

At Era, the Magical Council member Org is speaking with Lahar and Doranbolt. Lahar assumes Doranbolt is relieved that the Fairy Tail members have been found alive, but Doranbolt thinks to himself that he had already forgotten about them. Org goes on about a new guild called Sabertooth and about Tartaros the remnants of Grimoire Heart. Org expresses his uneasiness about the silence of the Magic world over the past seven years and claims he feels that it is about to break soon. When Doranbolt ask if its due to Fairy Tail, Org laughs it off.

Two weeks pass and the news of the missing members return spreads. The guild becomes much more lively as a result. While talking with Romeo, Natsu and co. learn about a new Mage Guild called Sabertooth and how it rose to prominence after their disappearance when the guild master recruited five members. Also during this time, Fairy Tail has fallen to last place, being considered the weakest guild in Fiore. While everyone expresses embarrassment at being last, Natsu is excited as it a chance for Fairy Tail to climb the ranks again. Cana comes by and asks about her father, to which Erza replies that he went with Marakov back to the old guild building. Cana then dashes off to do something.

At the old guild location, Marakov leads Gildarts down a secret passage which none of the members have known about. They eventually reach a chamber with two large doors. Makarov opens them and shows Gildarts the guild's greatest secret, Lumen Histoire. As Gildarts looks on shocked, Makarov tells him it's the true nature of Fairy Tail before telling him he is to be the next guild master.

Back in the unknown area, the two men continue talking, mentioning that one of them was a apprentice of Gajeel's. Rogue tells his partner Sting Eucliffe not cling to the past. A soldier attacks them with a bow and arrow, but Sting manages to catch it and eats it before sending a Dragon Roar the soldier's way. It barely misses him and blasts a hole in the ruins behind him. The soldier gets scared and runs off. Sting calling him scum for leaving his wounded members behind and mentions he was part of a Dark Guild. It is then revealed that they are a Dragon Slayer duo, Sting the White Dragon and Rogue the Shadow Dragon. Soon two Exceeds meet them, Lector and Frosh, citing they were doing reconnaissance. The four head off with Sting wanting to fight Natsu, but Rogue continuing that he's not interested.

The New Master and the Familiar Smell
In an open field, Natsu is battling against Max Alors but is having a difficult time competing. Max states that everyone has been practicing for the past seven years and dodges or blocks several of Natsu's attacks until Natsu activates the Lightning Flame Dragon Mode and uses Lightning Flame Dragon's Roar to devastate the field, nearly missing Max. Though Natsu claims it's not as strong as it used to be, Max ends the battle, admitting that he could've been killed. After Natsu collapses, Wendy compliments Max's improved strength while Carla wonders why the guild didn't fight Twilight Ogre with their strength, with Max stating that it wouldn't have solved anything since they still owed Twilight Ogre money.

Gray comments that aside from monstrously powerful members like Gildarts Clive and Laxus, the rest of the guild from the island is not strong enough in this new world. Lucy agrees, seeing how much trouble Natsu had against Max. Happy wonders if there is a way to raise Magical Power by a great deal quickly.The team visits Porlyusica who immediately tells them to go home, though they, aside from Wendy, ask if she has anything that can help them. She angrily states she doesn't and quickly chases them away with her broom.

Back at the guild, Makarov states that he is retiring and the new guild master will be Gildarts Clive, though he is shocked to find Mirajane in Gildarts place holding a note. In his letter, Gildarts states that he is not suitable for the position of 5th guild master of Fairy Tail but as his first order of business, he allows Laxus to return to the guild and subsequently nominates Makarov Dreyar to be the 6th guild master of Fairy Tail. He then states that he is going traveling again and apologizes to Cana for leaving like this and that she can stare at his card if she wishes, though she states that she doesn't need to. He states that when he returns, he hopes Fairy Tail will be #1 again and that it is their job to make it so. Makarov angrily claims that he will never retire again. When the guild comments on how hard it will be to be #1 since Sabertooth is now #1 and Lamia Scale and Blue Pegasus are also stronger, Romeo claims there is a way.

Elsewhere, Natsu and the team have finally escaped Porlyusica when they notice Wendy crying. Natsu gets angry at the old lady for scaring the child but Wendy states she isn't upset because of Porlyusica's anger, but because her voice and scent are similar to Grandeeney, the dragon that raised her.

The Truth About Porlyusica and The New Festival
The others question Wendy's statement that Porlyusica is like Grandeeney, but Wendy once again repeats that they have the same scent and voice. Gray comments that it was strange that Grandeeney could possibly transform into a human, Lucy adding that Porlyusica's relationship with the other Masters went back before, when the Dragon Slayers were still being trained; thus, she couldn't be two people at once. However, Wendy notes aloud that she had a different attitude and tone than Grandeeney, also adding that Grandeeney was a really gentle dragon.

Suddenly, Porlyusica grumpily states from behind them that she was sorry for not being "gentle", shocking Gray and Lucy, who didn't hear her approach. Porlyusica states that she has nothing to hide from them, and that she will tell them everything. She states that she was a real human through and through. Natsu expresses his confusion that a human would hate humans. Porlyusica states that she didn't know anything about the dragons, remorselessly apologizing, but reveals that she is the "Grandeeney" of Edolas, as she got lost and stranded in Earth Land years ago. Porlyusica reveals that she had many chances to go back to Edolas, but that she decided to stay in Earth Land, as she liked it. She, however, states to Wendy that Grandeeney has talked to her through her heart with Magic, and that she had compiled a stack of papers with notes that contained information on Sky Dragon Slayer Magic, which would help Wendy get stronger; Milky Way and Shining Wave: Air Drill, two secret Dragon Slayer Magics left to her by Grandeeney. Porlyusica cautions Wendy, stating that if not practiced carefully, her body could be destroyed. Wendy bows happily and thanks Porlyusica, also uttering Grandeeney's name. Porlyusica, while walking away, smiles.

Back at the Fairy Tail Guild, Macao and Romeo are arguing about the participation of the Fairy Tail in something. Most of the guild members disapprove, but Romeo goes on to reveal that the Grand Magic Games were created in the last seven years and that the winner would be considered the strongest guild in Fiore as well as getting a 30,000,000 prize. This motivates the missing Fairy Tail members as they are invigorated, excitedly planning to prepare for the battle. Natsu asks Romeo when it was occurring, the latter replying that it will be held in three months. With this statement, all the missing members are fired up even more. The grown-up Fairy Tail Mages, however, dissuade them, telling them that they have come in last place every time they have entered. The missing core members then shout out that they were going to aim for the number one guild spot in Fiore; they shout that they are Team Fairy Tail!

The Training Begins... and Ends??
Having decided that they will compete in the upcoming Grand Magic Games, the returning members of Fairy Tail decide to use their remaining time to train in order make up for being absent during the last seven years. The members of Team Natsu, Juvia, Levy, Wendy and Carla are accompanied by Jet and Droy to the beach to train. However, the group gets distracted and begins to relax, swimming in the water, building sand castles, eating and sunbathing, much to Jet and Droy's dismay. While playing in the water, Lucy and Levy begin to talk about the other returning members who all went to a different training site. As Lucy teases Levy about her wanting to go with Gajeel on his special training, Jet and Droy watch the two and decide to let them relax for a while.

That afternoon, the group splits up to train. Lucy summons Capricorn in order to help her remedy her weakness, the lack of Magic during critical moments. Lucy seems to be doing well at first, doing what her spirit instructs her to do, but soon collapses out of exhaustion. While Lucy regains her breath, Capricorn tells her that her mother also underwent the same training she is doing in order to improve her Magic. When she is able to talk, Lucy begins to talk to Capricorn about the Magic of One, the source of all Magics, the thing that Hades was longing to get. Lucy tells Capricorn that, after hearing her mother talk about it, she thinks that all Magic originated from Love. Capricorn smiles at Lucy, happy with her explanation.

Throughout the beach, the other members are training. Gray, Juvia and Erza are practicing their Magic by themselves, Levy is helping Wendy read the notes given to her by Porlyusica while Happy encourages Natsu as he sprints through the beach with two big tires tied to his waist.

That night, the girls decide to bathe at the hot spring, unaware that the guys are trying to peep at them. As the group relaxes, Lucy points to the stars and the group begins to wonder what the other members were doing, wondering if they were looking at the sky just like them. Lucy then decides that she will put more effort into training. Suddenly, Erza summons her swords and attacks the gate to the hot spring, sensing someone suspicious. Outside the hot spring, the guys sit together, injured and regretting the fact that they dare peep at the girls.

During Day Two of training, the Mages notice how much their Magical Power has increased just in such a short time. They predict they may be able to stand a chance if they can keep their training up for the three months. Just then Virgo appears and tells Lucy the Celestial Spirit World may be in danger of being destroyed and her spirits need Natsu and co. to help. Lucy then reminds Virgo that humans cannot enter the Celestial Spirit World. Virgo reveals they can if they wear Celestial Spirit clothing. She then immediately teleports Team Natsu, along with Wendy, Carla, and Levy.

When they arrive, the Celestial Spirit King is there waiting for them. After letting Lucy worry for a bit, all of her spirits pop out and surprise her and congratulate her for making it back from Tenrou Island. This leaves all the Earth Land Mages dumbfounded. Lucy's Spirits explain how they had to make Lucy come here since she couldn't summon all her spirits. Everybody then parties. After several shenanigans, the party ends. Lucy says goodbye to all her spirits. As Virgo gets ready to send everyone back she informs everyone time operates different in the Celestial Spirit World, and that one day in it would equal three months in Earth Land. She then sends them back with this unfortunate information. All the members return to the training sight with Jet and Droy waiting for them. All the Mages collapse on the beach, having gained no power in the three months, and with only five days before the Grand Magic Games.

Prelude to the Games: The Guilds Gather and the Unexpected Help
Meanwhile in Lamia Scale, the guild master Ooba Babasaama is scolding the members about always coming into second place and commands Lyon and Jura to participate in the games. At Blue Pegasus, Ichiya is talking with Bob about the Jura's joining the games and they plan to put in their aces as well. With Sabertooth, Lector and Frosh tell Sting and Rogue about Natsu's participation in the games. While Sting is excited to hear it, Rogue remains indifferent. And finally at the Raven Tail guild, Iwan Dreyar gathers his members, swearing to crush Fairy Tail.

Meanwhile back at the beach, Team Natsu is still moping over the loss of their three month training time. Virgo suggests punishing her harsher to make them feel better but Lucy just tells her to leave. Levy comments they'll have to let some other Fairy Tail members compete though Erza suggest they just train harder for the next five days. Before anything can be decided a bird flies in and lands on Erza's head. They find that it has a note attached to its foot telling them to go to the suspension bring deep in the West Woods.

Skeptical but curious, the group head that way and find the suspension bridge broken, however it suddenly repairs itself. Gray no doubt recognizes the Magic but the other are still wary. They press on until they come across three cloaked figures waiting for them. They pull back their hoods to reveal Jellal, Meredy and Ultear, much to the group's shock. Jellal greets them, especially Erza, and asks if they've known about his jailbreak yet. Erza confirms that it was the news that Alzack and Bisca wanted to tell her. Jellal admits he didn't plan it and Ultear takes blame, saying Meredy and she were the ones responsible, though Meredy claims Ultear did most of the work.

Juvia notices that Meredy seems to smile alot more and is glad to see she alright. However the others are still weary as they are former Grimore Heart members. Ultear doesn't blame them from their skepticism, citing that she knows of her sins in the past and wishes to rectify them, hence why she broke out Jellal to make amends for manipulating him. Erza asks Jellal about his memory which he comments he remembers everything now as his memory came back six years ago, including his actions at the Tower of Paradise (Ultear however also takes blame for this as well). Jellal comments he was given the death sentence until his jailbreak. When Wendy ask if he has a reason to live, he answers that he created an independent guild called Crime Sorcière, a guild that isn't legal but is not a dark one either. Their goal is to destroy Dark Guilds, especially any under Zeref. When asked by Gray why they just don't become official, they answer that Jellal's a fugitive and Ultear and Meredy are ex-Grimoire Hearts members.

The three then get down to business of why they summoned the group there. As they're not official they can't enter the games, however they feel a dark energy resonating from the tournament grounds similar to Zeref. They wish for the group to investigate in hopes of getting a lead on him. In exchange, Ultear offers them an increase in the Magical Power, explaining that Wizard's Magic in the world of Fairy Tail acts like containers within their bodies. After repeated use, it empties out over time and the Eternano in the world's atmosphere refills their Magical Power after a while. However, Ultear reveals there's a potential secondary container that lies dormant in each and every Wizard. What she wishes to do is to activates this container to give them a boost in Magical Power, though she warns that the process will be painful. The group however are more then happy to receive the help and start celebrating. That is, all except Erza, who stares sternly at Jellal.

Ultear starts the process on Natsu who indeed is in terrible pain during the procedure, much to the others fear as they watch. Jet and Droy leave upon witnessing it, citing it doesn't concern them. Carla realizes that Erza gone to which Happy states that she went somewhere with Jellal. On the beach of the area, the two talk with Jellal stating that he remembers killing Simon and the whole events surrounding Nirvana. When asked if she should treat him like before, Jellal answers he won't mind but knows she's still wary and understands, even offering his life in exchange for Simon's. Though Erza counters that Simon wouldn't want that. She then ask if creating Crime Sorcière was part of his atonement. Jellal states he's not even sure as he still feels lost and doesn't even know why he's doing it. When he follows that he would probably be better off dead, Erza slaps him.

She yells at him for speaking such nonsense, citing that to live is true strength. When he still doubts, Ezra starts to grab him by the scruff of his clothes but trips sending the two tumbling down a sand bank. They land with Jellal on top of her. After a moment of awkwardness, Jellal states that she's right though she comments that she always tries to live her life by throwing herself headfirst through everything. She then states that she was scared she would never be able to see him again, and begins to cry. The two lean in and kiss, but Jellal suddenly pulls away, stating he has a fiancee. The two apologize to each other awkwardly before Erza asks if said fiancee is important to him. Jellal answers yes, to which Erza states he must live for her sake.

Some time later, the rest of the team have taken the procedure and are enduring it inside a small hut, save for Erza, who seems to have come out of it no worse then usual. Crime Sorcière heads off, stating they can't be in one place too long but that they'll be watching and cheering for fairy Tail from the shadows and that if Team Natsu find anything to send word via carrier pigeon. With that they say their good-byes and head off. The trio stop a cave for the night and hope the best for Fairy Tail though Meredy asks Jellal why he lied to Erza about having a fiancee. Jellal cites the rules of the guild and states that he can't love someone who walks in the light and is just happy that Erza's happy. Ultear and Meredy chide him for not coming up with a better way to tell Erza this. Back at the hut, Erza reveals she knew Jellal was lying but is happy he hasn't changed and that the team now have a chance. Though Happy sours the mood by drawing a heartbroken heart in the sand, earning him a kick into the atmosphere.

The Blooming, Yet Mysterious Capital, Crocus
A few days later in the capital of Fiore, Crocus, Team Natsu are sitting in the middle of the city complaining about the after effects of Ultear Milkovich's upgrade spell, while Erza Scarlet stands beside them scolding the group on their embarrassing behavior. Lucy wonders why Erza isn't in pain like them as well. Gray suggests that she probably already had her Second Origin to begin with.

Makarov Dreyar, Bisca Connell, Alzack Connell, Asuka Connell, Jet, Droy and Levy McGarden find the group. Makarov announces that they are going to show everyone the power of Fairy Tail. People around the city start laughing and mocking them, saying how weak Fairy Tail has become. Natsu gets angered and tries to go fight them, but Erza tells him to let it go. Makarov says that whoever wants to laugh, can laugh. Makarov tells everyone to aim for number one so that they can face Mavis Vermilion again someday.

Lucy recalls how only five members of the guild were selected to enter the tournament and that the Makarov chose Erza, Gray, Natsu, Wendy and Lucy. Wendy and Lucy were surprised that the Makarov chose them, since they thought that Laxus Dreyar or Gajeel Redfox would be more suited for the position, but Makarov tells them that the others haven't returned yet. He then whispers to himself that he wished he could have gone with Laxus, Gildarts or Mirajane. The group then goes over some of the rules of the tournament and the possible events. Levy says that she has brought her Gale-Force Reading Glasses and has already read the book. She then tells everyone the most important rules, which include the Guild Master not being able to participate, only members of the guild being able to participate, each event being a secret until the competition, and the rule that all members must be in their sleeping quarters at 12:00.

Lucy, Natsu and Happy then run off to explore Crocus. Erza goes to their sleeping quarters, Honeybone Lodge, and inspects the place for anything suspicious. Juvia Lockser meets up with Gray and asks him if he wants to go eat alone with her. Gray surprisingly says yes, but Lyon Bastia interrupts them and tries to take Juvia away. Gray and Lyon begin arguing, and Lyon forcefully makes a bet with Gray that if Fairy Tail loses the tournament, Juvia has to join Lamia Scale, but if Lamia Scale loses, Lyon will give Juvia back. Wendy and Carla visit the King of Fiore's Castle, Mercurius. While they talk, a mysterious devil-like creature looks down on them from the balcony, smiling.

Natsu, Lucy and Happy notice a fight going on in the middle of a street and realize it's the two Dragon Slayers from Sabertooth, Sting Eucliffe and Rogue Cheney. The two Dragon Slayers recognize Natsu, while Frosch and Lector surprise Happy by being Exceed. The two Exceed team up and start verbally bullying Happy. Rogue and Sting make fun of Natsu, saying that he's the Dragon Slayer that couldn't actually defeat a dragon. The Sabertooth Mages brag that they probably could've defeated Acnologia, though Lucy steps in and says that they've never seen Acnologia and don't know it's strength. Sting and Rogue brush the comment off and say that they're a different type of Dragon Slayer. Lector explains about First and Second Generation Dragon Slayers, then announces that the Sabertooth Dragon Slayers are Third Generation, meaning they have lacrima embedded in their bodies and were taught by dragons. Natsu asks if their Dragons disappeared in X777 also, but the two say no and reveal that in order to be True Dragon Slayers, they killed their dragon parents. Elsewhere, Erza sits alone in Honeybone Lodge, angry the rest of the group is late.

Let The Mysterious Preliminaries Begin!
When Team Natsu finally return to Honeybone Lodge Erza yells at them for being late. Natsu can only think about his encounter with Rogue and Sting, and remembers their words that if the main event of the tournament is a battle, they will show Natsu the true power of a Dragon Slayer. Erza then asks where Wendy and Carla are. Everybody begins to worry about Wendy and what she might be doing, stating that she is too young to be out so late. They consider going out to look for her, but remember the rule about having to be in their lodge by midnight. As midnight is not far off, they worry about being able to find Wendy and return back in time. Before they can reach a decision, Elfman and Lisanna show up, having returned from their training in the mountains.

The clock finally hits midnight. The announcer for the tournament, taking the appearance of a giant pumpkin-man, greets all the guilds as he floats above the city. He declares that a Preliminary Event will begin to reduce to total number of guilds participating from one-hundred and thirteen to eight. Lucy immediately notes that there is no way one-hundred thirteen guilds exist within Fiore. Erza also questions the setup of the tournament, and questions if the ones they should be looking for are the event organizers themselves. The whole city then starts changing as the announcer describes the event. The goal of the preliminary round is to get all 5 participating group members to Domus Flau. Any type of Magic may be used and there are no real rules for this round. Only the first eight guilds to reach Domus Flau will pass. The whole city then changes into a huge maze ball that floats in the sky. The announcer declares that the "Sky Labyrinth" event has begun.

Erza quickly points out that Fairy Tail only has four participating members currently present, as Wendy is missing. Elfman volunteers to temporarily fill in, and grabs Team Natsu. As they run into the labyrinth, Erza calls out for Lisanna and Happy to search for Wendy, but not to get into any trouble.

Once inside the maze, Lucy summons Pyxis to point them east, the direction where Domus Flau should be compared to them. After doing so, they continue on. Eventually they encounter Teebo and other members of Twilight Ogre. They charge at the Fairy Tail Mages wanting revenge, but are quickly defeated. The labyrinth then starts spinning. Lucy and Natsu almost fall, but are rescued by Elfman. Gray then finds a partial map that Twilight Ogre had made of the labyrinth. The team then figures if they steal other teams maps then they can piece together the maze. After defeating several guilds, Fairy Tail successfully reaches the end, where the announcer congratulates them. Lucy asks if they were first place, but to the Mages surprise, the announcer tells them they barely managed to get eighth.

Elsewhere in the city, Lisanna and Happy find Wendy's bag laying in the streets.

Eight Teams, One Winner: A Chance for Fairy Tail to Rise Again?
The Grand Magical Tournament begins at long last with great celebration and fanfare as the massive crowd cheers for the Mages. In their preparation room, Team Natsu and Elfman are contemplating their uniforms, the latter realizing that Wendy's clothes will not fit him, with Natsu commenting that they're actually perfect for him and that Elfman has buffed up recently. In the infirmary, Wendy and Carla lay in their beds, with Porlyusica, who has apparently come to cheer for Fairy Tail, stating that their current state is due to a large loss of Magical Energy. All Wendy is able to recall is a black creature. She tearfully apologizes for what has happened and asks Elfman to compete in her place. Porlyusica states that the tournament goes on for five days and that she can get Wendy healed within that time.

Outside, former member of the council Shitou Yajima has joined Chapati Lola as commentator of the games. As the preliminary eighth place winners, Fairy Tail, arrive at the arena, they are booed by the crowd for their past poor performances during the time the Tenrou team was missing. However, the Master and the remaining members of the Guild are there and cheer for the guild, as well as a surprising guest. Mavis Vermilion joins in the cheering for Fairy Tail, stating that she was bored on Tenrou Island and that only those with the Fairy Tail crest can see her.

The seventh place team, Quatro Cerberus, arrive on the field followed shortly by the all-female guild; sixth place Mermaid Heel. Fifth place in the preliminaries was taken by Blue Pegasus' Trimens and one new member in a bunny suit. Fourth place in the preliminaries was taken by Lamia Scale, their guild master angry for their seeming inability to place higher. Among the team members is Sherry's cousin, Chelia. Lyon reminds Gray about their bet regarding Juvia, though Gray angrily claims that no bet was made but also that Fairy Tail will not lose regardless.

The next team is the surprisingly newly legitimate guild; preliminary third place Raven Tail, shocking Makarov who believed that they were still a Dark Guild, though this is clarified that they are now recognized by the Council as an official guild. Master Iwan nevertheless states to his father that he has been waiting for such an opportunity. It is revealed that the creature which attacked Wendy and Carla was sent by Raven Tail as well, angering the Fairy Tail team.

With two more guilds are set to arrive the crowd becomes confused as they believed Sabertooth and Lamia Scale to be the two highest ranking Guilds. They assume that Sabertooth is one of the remaining teams, but are unsure as to the other. Erza wonders if this unknown team have anything to do with the dark energy Jellal mentioned.

The second team is revealed, shocking the crowd as it is Fairy Tail's 'B' team, consisting of Laxus, Mirajane, Gajeel, Juvia and Mystogan. The other Fairy Tail members are shocked at both Mystogan's appearance and the fact that they believed they were the only Fairy Tail wizards present. After the crowd expresses shock about the fact that two teams from the same guild arrived, it is explain that each guild can send more than one team to participate, which Lucy notes accounts for the large number of teams in the preliminaries. The commentators talk over whether this gives Fairy Tail an unfair advantage, as they have twice as many participants as the other Guilds. However a conclusion is reached that the fact that Fairy Tail managed to get two Teams into the finals has earned them such a privilege. Natsu angrily states to the B team that even if they're from the same guild, he won't hold back if they have to fight, which Gajeel agrees to. It is soon revealed that the mysterious individual is not Mystogan, but Jellal, disguised as his Edolas counterpart. Erza asks him how he managed to get a position on a Fairy Tail team, with him replying that the Master allowed him to come once Jellal told him of his concerns. Erza accuses Jellal of cheating, as he is not a true member of Fairy Tail, but Jellal replies that for all their purposes he and Mystogan are pretty much the same person. Mavis then realizes that Jellal isn't actually a member of the guild, but she allows him to compete as his soul is similar to that of Fairy Tail. Makarov tells her that Jellal is quite strong, having once been among the Ten Wizard Saints.

While Iwan looks on from above at Gajeel, Erza and Jellal discuss the mysterious source of Magic. Although Raven Tail has been acting odd, they don't seem to be the source as the Magic has existed previously in the games, while Raven Tail is making their debut this year. Soon after, the first place team of the preliminaries, Sabretooth, arrives. Sting and Natsu immediately share words while Rogue and Gajeel notice one another as well.

The programs of the tournament is announced, with the first round being 'hidden' and followed by a battle. As per the rules, the first place team in a game will earn 10 points following a 2 point deduction for every additionally lower spot. Each team may choose one member to compete, but in the battles, the sponsors will have a right to choose fighting pairs by various factors, like fan votes. In battles, the losing team earns 0 points with the winner earning 10, and 5 each in the case of a draw.

The first game is announced to start and each team must choose one member to participate; from Mermaid Heels, Beth is selected while Yaeger represents Quatro Cerberus. Nullpuding from Raven Tail goes while Blue Pegasus sends Eve. From Sabertooth, Rufus offers to go while Lyon chooses to represent Lamia Scale, causing Gray to step up for Fairy Tail's 'A' team and subsequently Juvia for the Fairy Tail 'B' team, with Gajeel telling her he won't forgive her if she intentionally loses.

Let's Play Hide and Seek! Hidden Begins!
As the Grand Magic Games finally begin, Meredy and Ultear are looking down on the arena from above. Meredy knows that even though they warned Fairy Tail about the mysterious Magic, Jellal went to the games anyway, making their meeting with Fairy Tail useless. Ultear disagrees, saying that, for Erza and Jellal, it was anything but.

Gray steps up as the eight representatives are called out, with his teammates telling him not to lose to Sabertooth, Raven Tail or the Fairy Tail 'B' team. When asked, Shitou Yajima states that his favorite for the game is Rufus of Sabertooth, but that he also likes Gray. Jenny states that she supports her guild member, Eve. Juvia tells Gray that she does not plan to lose to him with Gray returning the statement. Lyon states that he will do anything...for Juvia. Nulpting of Raven Tail states that with two members, the Fairy Tail Guild has an advantage, to which the Pumpkin Man says that it is a rarity for such a thing to happen. Rufus states that such a thing could even prove disadvantageous and that he is not worried, with Quatro Cerberus and Mermaid Heels agreeing.

Soon, the field opens and separates all the contestants in a large field resembling a city. The rules are that each member must find their opponents and hit them, but nobody knows where the others are. Whoever launches an attack first gains one point and the one who is hit loses one point, thus the game becomes 'hide and seek'. To make matters harder, numerous clones of each contestant will walk around the city to confuse everyone. Attacking a clone will result in a one point deduction. The game starts immediately after.

Juvia quickly loses one point due to her hugging a clone of Gray being seen as an 'attack', angering her teammates who realize she is likely disadvantaged at the game. As Gray walks down the street, he hears a sound and turns to see Nullpuding of Raven Tail, who he immediately attacks. Unfortunately another Nullpuding shows up and states that it was a clone Gray attacked and Gray loses one point. Gray realizes that Nullpuding used his clone to confuse him and realizes a use for the clones as decoys.

Later as he walks down the road, his name is called out, distracting him and leaving him open to be attacked by the real Nullpuding, giving Fairy Tail's 'A' team a score of -2 and Raven Tail a score of +1.

With twenty-seven minutes remaining in the game, Shitou Yajima suggests that one of several methods for finding one's opponents is sensing their Magical Energy, while Jenny suggests that her guild mate, Eve, will find a more creative way.

Meanwhile, it seems that Raven Tail only wants to attack Fairy Tail as Nullpuding repeatedly goes after Gray. While Lucy looks on at the game and at the Raven Tail members on the side, the female Mage of the guild, Flare Corona, looks back, seemingly calling her out until her guild mate tells her to stop. Makarov also laments on how Iwan's guild is purposely going after only Gray and Happy tries to encourage him.

As Gray walks the streets, he narrowly dodges an attack from Beth, who is then attacked by Yaeger of Quatro Cerberus, who is then subsequently attacked by Lyon. As Lyon prepares to attack Gray, Juvia jumps down from above and kicks Lyon (who was distracted by the sight of her underwear) in the head. She states that she promised the Master that she would not lose, even to Gray himself. As part of agreeing to be Fairy Tail's B team, the members of the winning team are allowed to make the members of the losing team do whatever they want for a day, shocking Gray, who heard of no such rule that the Master applied to their team. Natsu and the rest of the team agree to the terms as they also have an idea of what to do if they win. Whilst Juvia and Gray are talking, Nullpuding shows up again and attacks them both, adding an additional 2 points to his score.

Suddenly, snow starts falling and Jenny and the rest of Blue Pegasus figure out that it's Eve's doing. His plan is that, since the real Mages will shiver in the cold, he will identify them through their breath which will become visible due to cold temperatures. Using this idea, he lands hits on Mermaid Heel, Quatro Cerberus and Raven Tail. However, Lyon claiming the cold has no such effect on him soon finds Eve and they begin a fight as the rest of the Mages battle one another elsewhere.

However, Rufus of Sabertooth hasn't moved at all. He hasn't attacked anyone, nor has he been found. He claims that the game is too easy for him and states that he remembers exactly where everyone is and has been as he unleashes his Memory-Make Magic, shocking others, who realize he is using Creation Magic. Using this spell, he lands a direct hit on every Wizard in the game other than Nullpuding, who barely dodges and jumps to attack. However, he attacks a "memory" of Rufus as the real one attacks him, sending him back down. Everyone expresses amazement at Rufus's Magical skill and Sabertooth's power.

Soon, the game ends with Sabertooth in the lead, followed by Raven Tail, Lamia Scale, Blue Pegasus, Mermaid Heel, Quatro Cerberus, Fairy Tail 'B' and Fairy Tail 'A' in last place. The audience ridicules the Fairy Tail Guild for their poor performance, angering Natsu, who has to be calmed down by Erza and Elfman and told not to do anything. Gray apologizes for his performance, but Lucy says it's only the first round. He walks off in disappointment, swearing to get back at Raven Tail and Sabertooth.

Next up are the battle segments and all teams are scheduled to fight one another as a Mage is called up from each guild. First up is Lucy from Fairy Tail's 'A' team and Flare from Raven Tail.

Win, Lose or Draw? The First Day Battles Begin!
The first fight of the first day of the tournament is about to begin, a battle between Team Fairy Tail A Lucy and Team Raven Tail Flare. Although in last place, Lucy gains the chance to earn 10 points, and tie with Team Sabertooth. Before the battle begins, Lucy expresses her anger with Raven Tail for attacking Wendy and only going after Gray in the first event, resolving to win her battle for them and the rest of Fairy Tail. In the stands, Mavis wonders what Raven Tail's objective is, with Makarov stating that it's to embarrass Fairy Tail, but Mavis feels that's too simple a goal for them. The battle between Lucy and Flare will last for 30 minutes and if anyone is knocked out within that time, they lose. If the time limit is reached, a draw will be declared.

Lucy begins by summoning Taurus to attack Flare. As Flare dodges Taurus' axe, Lucy summons Scorpio, who activates his Sand Buster. Flare controls her hair and tries to use it to block the attack but Taurus uses a suction ability to control the sand and attack Flare with Sandstorm Axe Aldebaran, while everyone comments on Lucy's improved skill. As Flare is pushed back, amazed at how the "blondie" is attacking her, she uses her Hair Shower - Wolf Fang, causing her hair to take the form of a wolf. However, Lucy summons Cancer, who promptly cuts the hair and renders the attack useless. Angered, Flare directs her hair underground and it comes back up near Lucy, grabbing her legs and immobilizing her before Flare knocks her to the ground. She states that she can control her hair as she wishes, slamming Lucy down. Lucy responds by using her Fleuve D'Etoiles to free herself while Flare tries to hit her again, sending both girls flying away from one another.

Lucy notices that her boots are ruined and assumes it must be from when she was grabbed. Flare is shocked that her hair has sustained this level of damage. She sends her hair underground once again and Lucy looks around while Flare points to where the rest of the Fairy Tail Guild is, watching in the stands.

Lucy sees Flare's hair rise up behind Asuka, but before she can say anything she is quickly silenced and thrown to the ground, with Flare telling her that if she disobeys and says anything, something bad may happen.

Meanwhile, up in the stands, the Knight Squadron Chief Arcadias is commenting on the battle and that the "matured fruit" is ripening, such that it may be completed this year. He tells his Lord Zeref that he should just sit back and wait.

With Asuka as her hostage, Flare forces Lucy to not use Magic, move or say anything at all, lest something unfortunate happens. Lucy reacts angrily at Flare's cowardice for taking a hostage but is quickly tossed around by her hair, causing the entire audience to wonder how the tables had turned so fast, as both participants were even a few moments ago. Remembering the pain inflicted on Wendy and the humiliation Gray endured, Lucy attempts to give up the fight by surrendering, but is silenced by Flare, who states she will not allow her to do so and continues to hurt her.

She raises Lucy into the air and decides to brand the mark of Raven Tail over her Fairy Tail mark, despite Lucy's attempts to stop her. Elsewhere, Natsu has disappeared as Erza and Elfman wonder where he has gone. Natsu runs through the crowd, noting his sense of hearing and that something was definitely off. Near the Fairy Tail crowd, he finds Flare's hair and snaps it, saving Asuka and allowing Lucy to fight back against her opponent by calling out Gemini.

Gemini transforms into Lucy to activate a Magic that they had practiced together. Gemini's transformation skills catch everyone's attention, with Levy noting that it can only transform into someone with similar Magic Power to itself. The Celestial Spirit Mage and her spirit then pool their energies together to form a spell that Hibiki of Blue Pegasus recognizes instantly: Urano Metria!

However, before it is cast, the power dissipates, leaving Lucy extremely weakened. Flare realizes that her teammate helped her out from the sidelines, as does Mavis, who notes that such a thing is against the rules. When Lucy collapses, Flare is declared the victor as the rest of Fairy Tail shows the shocked and angry looks on their faces at being cheated. Flare enjoys her victory and the crowd makes fun of Fairy Tail once again. As Lucy is crying on the ground, sad at her disappointment, Natsu shows up and tells her to save the tears for their victory, as he offers her a hand. Lucy then goes to take a shower so she can weep in solitude.

The matches continue with the second being Ren Akatsuki from Blue Pegasus faces Arania Web from Mermaid Heel, which Ren won. The next battle was between War Cry from Quatro Cerberus and Orga Nanagear from Sabertooth, with War Cry being defeated before being able to use his Magic. The final battle of the day was between "Mystogan" from Team Fairy Tail B and Jura Neekis of Lamia Scale.

The crowd cheers wildly for Jura as he and Jellal make their way to the centre of the arena, showing Jura's high level of popularity. Makarov notices that Mavis seems tense, but tells her that Jellal was one of the Ten Wizard Saints just like Jura, so their skills should be evenly matched. However, Mavis points out that she needs to use the restroom, surprising everyone, since she's a spirit.

The battle begins with Jura using his Earth Magic, but Jellal is able to dodge it and set up Sacred Song around Jura. Jura comes out unharmed and sends an attack at Jellal. He reflects it, though Jura does the same, hitting his opponent. Jellal -deciding he cannot defeat Jura whilst only using Mystogan's Magic- starts using his true Magic, utilizing the spell Meteor, which Jura takes a notice to. With this speed, Jellal hits Jura, and sets up Grand Chariot as well. Jura defends with Rock Mountain. Jura finally catches on and understands that he is actually fighting Jellal in disguise, though he keeps it to himself. Being pushed this far, Jellal disregards his disguise, and begins to use Sema, which will immediately expose him.

Ultear and Meredy, watching from afar, stop Jellal from revealing himself by using Meredy's Sensory Link. Ultear force-feeds Meredy hot peppers and tickles her, which Jellal feels on the arena, making him fall down. Jura gets the victory, and Fairy Tail loses. The crowd boos Fairy Tail again, and Jura is confused about his victory, though his guildmaster is still happy. Most all of, Fairy Tail is discouraged, especially Mavis.

Meanwhile, Carla wakes up after having being knocked out, and has a terrible premonition.

Day 1's Defeat Will Lead to Tomorrow's Victory!
After their humiliating defeat, the members of Fairy Tail regroup, but are still hopeful that they will be able to make a comeback and start partying. During the party, numerous members become aware that Lucy and Gray are not present. Concerned, Juvia forms a scenario in her head with Lucy seducing Gray. However, this proves to be false as the two appear behind her. With the two present and Wendy and Carla unable to go due to their injuries, Makarov faces his guild members and encourages them, telling them that they are the guild that doesn't know the meaning of giving up. The party then commences, causing the bystanders outside to comment that they're noisy even though they lost.

Elsewhere, in the castle of Mercurius, Arcadios is having a talk with the king, asking him if he has any request concerning the second day fights. The king tells him that he wants to see Sting and Rogue fight, but thinks that they should leave the best for last. He then tells Arcadios to have Bacchus battle someone from Fairy Tail. The king then dismisses Arcadios who quietly leaves, saying to himself that soon something will be complete.

Meanwhile, Cana is approached by a man who challenges her to a drinking contest, despite Macao and Wakaba's warnings. However, the man proves himself to be capable of defeating Cana in the contest, making it her first loss. The man then turns to leave, taking Cana's bra as a prize. Macao and Wakaba try to stop him from disgracing their guild mate, but the man easily and effortlessly dodges their attack and smacks them in the heads. Erza then arrives and realizes that the guy is Bacchus, the Quatro Cerberus S-Class Mage. Bacchus then leaves after telling them that he will be replacing War Cry as one of his guild's representatives. As Bacchus leaves, Erza tells her team mates that they had fought multiple times in the past and no one has yet won, surprising them.

Meanwhile, Carla is explaining her vision to Porlyusica. According to her, she saw fragments, which included a white knight, a Magic array and Mercurius destroyed, with Lucy singing something inside the city.

Day 2's Challenges: Let the Race Begin
As the second days challenge begins, it is revealed to be an event called Chariot, in which the representative of each team races to the finish on top of moving wagons. As we join the race, we see Kurohebi from Team Raven Tail far ahead in the lead, with the Ichiya in 2nd place, Yuka in 3rd, Risley in 4th and Bacchus in 5th.

However, while this group was near the finish line, Sting, Gajeel and Natsu were still near the starting line at 6th, 7th and 8th place respectively, with all three Dragon Slayers suffering from severe motion sickness, surprising nearly all the Fairy Tail members speechless. Yuka then propels himself forward using Wave Boost, but Risley manages to avoid it, using her Magic to run on the side of the cart. Ichiya, seeing that Yuka waves could nullify Magic, uses Fleet-Foot Perfume: Zero Distance Inhalation to accelerate. Bacchus, noticing that his competition was getting fired up, decides to take things seriously as well and promptly destroys his own wagon. This causes the ones further ahead to jump and nearly dislodging the other racers. He then uses this opportunity to run on ahead, passing everyone and taking 1st place. He is promptly followed by Kurohebi, with Risley coming in 3rd, Yuka in 4th and Ichiya 5th.

This leaves the Dragon Slayers pathetically competing for 6th and 7th place. It is then revealed that all Dragon Slayers of a certain level seem to share the weakness of motion sickness. Despite this, Natsu and Gajeel persistently push on forward. Sting says that he will let the two Fairy Tail Mages have the extra 1 or 2 points but wishes to know why they were trying so hard, when the Fairy Tail of the past never really cared about such things. Natsu then gives an impassioned speech, stating that they were doing this for their guild who had patiently waited for them. His speech touches the Fairy Tail members in the audience, and the spectators causing them to openly cry. With that the two Fairy Tail Dragon Slayers pushes forward, with Natsu earning 6th place (and obtaining the first 2 points for his team) and Gajeel in 7th. Sting drops out, earning himself 8th place and his team 0 points, but is for some reason angry with Natsu's explanation.

Next comes the battle round, but Natsu seems to be immobilized due to the traumatic race he was just in. After Lucy carries him in and inquires about his, Wendy's and Carla's health and learning that they will be alright, she leaves to join her team. Porlyusica asks Carla why she didn't tell Lucy of her Premonition, which the Exceed replies saying that she refuses to believe that it actually was one, and that it must have been a dream instead. Lucy joins her team, and seeing that Raven Tail's Kurohebi was fighting Lamia Scale's Toby, prompts her to glance over at Team Raven Tail, and see's that Flare is covered in bruises. Flare also see's Lucy looking at them and acts antagonistic towards her, but her face is then grabbed by a team-mate who threatens to beat her up some more if she continues to disgrace them.

The first match then begins with Toby slashing at Kurohebi, while the Raven Tail representative promptly dodges and then attacks using Mimicry Magic. Toby praises Kurohebi's strength and his name. When Kurohebi states it wasn't his real name Toby gets comically angry and, while attacking his opponent, requests that if he were to win, Kurohebi is to tell him his real name, while if Kurohebi wins, Toby will tell him his "super secret". Toby is promptly defeated, revealing his secret was that he couldn't find his other sock, which was actually hanging around his neck, stunning the audience. Kurohebi points out Toby's sock, causing Toby to cry in happiness. The Raven Tail representative then holds out his hand. Toby, thinking it was meant for him, reaches out for it, but Kurohebi grabs his sock and tears it, much to the amusement of his team-mates, stating that the more precious something is to someone, the more he wants to destroy it.

The second match then begins, with Bacchus coming out for Quatro Cerberus. At this point the king arrives and meets with Arcadios, eager to see the match between Bacchus and Erza. However, due to the kings vagueness, Arcadios arranged Fairy Tails battle representative to be Elfman Strauss, mistaking him for "the one that transforms". With everyone, including Elfman, doubting Fairy Tails victory, he proceeds to enter the battle field. However, Bacchus decides to make things interesting by asking for his opponents sisters if Team Quatro Cerberus were to win, infuriating Elfman.

Meanwhile, at the infirmary, Natsu wakes up to see Wendy, Carla and Porlyusica were missing, and the scent of someone unfamiliar in the air. Seeing that his friends were missing, Natsu searches for them, to see that they were unconscious and being carried away by four unknown people. One of the group broke off in an attempt to stall Natsu, but was quickly defeated. Seeing that the Dragon Slayer isn't slowing down, they confer among themselves, debating whether they should drop their hostages and run for it, but still taking Wendy, since the "request" was for the "young girl". Hearing this, Natsu catches up and fights them.

Meanwhile, down at the arena, the battle has already started, with Elfman being thoroughly hammered. He uses his magic to transform into a new, faster form, hoping to make contact, but they are easily dodged by his opponent, who at the same time, counter-attacks. At this point, Erza reveals that Bacchus's strength isn't his magic (which simply focuses magical energy into the palm of his hands) but his mastery over the martial arts. He apparently created a new, more powerful style by improving the Hanging Chop Fist (which makes use of Palm Strikes) into the Drunken Hanging Chop Fist. Furthermore, since Bacchus hasn't taken a drop of alcohol since the fight started, he has even fought at full strength yet.

After Elfman is struck down again, Chapati Lola reveals that he is also the replacement referee, since Matt has the day off. Elfman struggles up again and states the term for his wager, saying that if he wins, Quatro Cerberus is to be renamed Quatro Puppy for the rest of the tournament shocking the rest of Team Quatro Cerberus. Bacchus accepts, and deciding to take things seriously, takes a swig from his gourd. Elfman transforms again as Bacchus advances, and in an instant, the Drunken Falcon lands seven blows. However he then notices that his hands were damaged. Seeing this, he turns around to see Elfman's new transformation is covered in spiked scales, making him virtually untouchable for hand-to-hand combatants. With this Elfman challenges Bacchus's palms with his own body to see who will break first.

Bacchus accepts the challenge and attacks the Lizardman, while Elfman merely endures. They then both fall to their knees in exhaustion. Bacchus then stands, and after acknowledging the Fairy Tails representatives strength, collapses giving Team Fairy Tail A their first victory. Meanwhile at the top of the stadium, the kidnappers have been captured, and kidnapped were awake. The kidnappers were taken into custody, but not before claiming that Raven Tail was the one who requested them to do so. However Porlyusica, Wendy and Carla believe that they weren't even the intended target, and that it was actually supposed to be Lucy. This is proven to be correct as Arcadios met the one who imprisoned the kidnappers, telling them they got the wrong target with the one they were actually after was the Celestial Spirit Mage. After Arcadios approved that Raven Tail was made the scapegoat, he said that he'll use the discord between Raven Tail and Fairy Tail to capture Lucy, all for Zeref's Eclipse Plan.