Fairy Tail: Strongest Creature

"You want a beating, huh?"

Su Yan's voice broke the tense silence in the guild, quiet but clear enough for everyone to hear. Heads swiveled in his direction, eyes widening in shock.

*Did he really just say that?* Laxus, the guild master's grandson and one of the strongest young mages in *Fairy Tail,* wasn't someone people dared to provoke so openly. But here was Su Yan, unruffled, challenging him without hesitation.

Laxus stopped dead in his tracks, his face hardening as he turned to glare at Su Yan. "What did you just say? Care to repeat that?"

Su Yan shrugged, meeting Laxus's gaze without flinching. "Sure. I said you're in for a beating."

"You little…" Lightning crackled around Laxus as he clenched his fists, the golden arcs sparking with raw power. "I was going to hold back and give you a chance, but now… you're asking for it. In the S-Class Trials, I'll show you exactly what you're up against."

Su Yan met his anger with a calm smile. "You're used to getting away with things because of who your grandfather is. But listen closely, Laxus—if you don't want to get hurt, you might as well bow out now. I'm not letting anyone get in my way."

"Big words," Laxus growled, his voice low. "But when we get out there, don't expect me to go easy on you." He turned and stormed off, his usual entourage—the Thunder God Tribe—following close behind.

The tension in the room lingered even after Laxus left, and several guild members exhaled with relief. The atmosphere had nearly boiled over, and a fight had seemed inevitable until Master Makarov and Gildarts descended the stairs.

"Apologies, Su Yan," Makarov said, his voice warm but tired. "Laxus's temper can be… difficult. I don't know what's gotten into him lately."

"Don't worry, Master," Su Yan replied with a grin. "You don't need to apologize for him. When it comes time for the trial, I'll handle him myself."

Makarov sighed, clearly relieved that Su Yan didn't seem to hold any grudges. "Good, good. Give him a solid beating if he deserves it. He could use a reminder that he's not invincible."

Gildarts laughed, giving Su Yan a friendly pat on the head. "I like this kid's spirit. But remember, Laxus isn't exactly an easy opponent. You'd better not take him lightly."

Su Yan smirked. "Don't worry—I'm not one to underestimate anyone."

Gildarts chuckled. "Glad to hear it. I'm rooting for you, kid. It's about time we get a new S-Class mage around here."

With the tension lifted, the guild returned to its usual lively atmosphere. Members gathered in groups, buzzing with excitement over the upcoming S-Class Trials and placing bets on who would succeed. Though Laxus was the obvious favorite, Su Yan's confident display had earned him quite a few supporters as well.

As the crowd around him dispersed, Erza approached. "Laxus is powerful, Su Yan. Be careful."

Su Yan nodded. "I know. I've seen what he can do."

Just then, Natsu bounded over with his usual fiery enthusiasm. "Hey, Su Yan! Pick me as your partner! I want a shot at Laxus!"

Gray scoffed. "Natsu, you challenged Laxus last time and lost in one hit. You wouldn't last a second."

"That was ages ago! I've gotten way stronger since then," Natsu shot back.

"Last time was only a month ago, you idiot," Gray countered, rolling his eyes.

Natsu growled, "You looking for a fight, ice freak?"

"Bring it on, flame brain!" Gray retorted, both of them already clashing heads.

Su Yan chuckled, watching the two bicker. Before he could consider his options for a partner, another voice cut through the noise.

"I'll be your partner."

Natsu and Gray stopped, turning to stare alongside the rest of the guild as Mirajane stepped forward, her gaze fixed on Su Yan.