"Kana is in this round too, huh? With her strength, she should make it this time, right?"
"Well, what can you do? There have been monsters every year in the previous rounds."
"It's not surprising for Mest and Mickey, but why did Wolian get selected and not Natsu or Gray?"
"Is it really okay to talk about Wolian like that? He's very strong."
The four selected were all familiar faces, at least as far as everyone thought, and there was basically no objection.
Some people did mention Rhode; however, considering he's been learning magic for less than half a year, it's normal not to be selected.
Then there's Natsu, who was shouting discontentedly: "Old man! Why wasn't I chosen again this time? I've grown stronger!"
"Because you're too weak, Natsu," said Laxus. "When you hear such news and don't immediately yell, you'll probably be qualified."
What he said made sense, but the disdainful expression was infuriating, making Natsu almost want to rush at him for a fight.
"Don't say unnecessary things, Laxus," said Makarov,
"The eligibility for the exam is something I evaluate based on everyone's abilities, mentality, character... all aspects. Think about where you're lacking, Natsu."
"Damn it!" Natsu was unwilling to accept it.
If he could pass the S-Class exam... he would qualify to meet Igneru; that's what he believed.
In comparison, Gray was already quietly reflecting on where he might have fallen short.
It couldn't be because of his habit of stripping, could it?
Rhode wondered, "I know everyone else, but who's Mest?"
"Mest? He joined the guild a long time ago," Mira thought for a moment and realized she didn't have a deep impression either, "You joined later, so you don't know him. He doesn't show up much, almost as mysterious as Mystogan, but everyone knows he's strong."
Elfman pointed at a guy with a scar on his face and short hair: "That's him, a real man!"
Rhode found it odd since he'd been with the guild for five months and worked as a waiter. No matter what, he should have some impression if Mest had ever shown up.
He even ran into Mystogan outside twice; only Kildas, who has been gone for years, he hasn't met, but at least he's heard the name.
But Mest's name seemed never mentioned by anyone; can someone qualified for the S-Class exam be that low-key?
Rhode asked, "When was the last time he showed up?"
Mira thought again and said, "I can't remember, but a very long time ago, I guess?"
Rhode hesitantly nodded, wondering if it was really like Kildas, who was out for a long time?
He decided to take his time to go through the albums and Lidas's art collection to confirm if he just focused on familiar faces before and overlooked him.
Makarov was already describing the exam details: "This year's exam venue is in the Kroba Grand Canyon."
The location isn't unfamiliar, as the train terminal through Magnolia is in Kroba City.
And the canyon is between Oshibana City and Kroba City, with very complex topography.
Rhode had been around the Sunflower Village near the canyon before while teaming with Alzack to eliminate bandits.
"The exam will start in a week. The rules are the same as previous years, with at most one qualifier. Additionally, everyone must pick one partner."
"The specific exam content will be announced upon arrival at the venue; what can be said now is..." Makarov smiled, "These three behind me will be your obstacles."
Laxus raised his hand, and golden lightning erupted from his palm: "I won't let weaklings rise to my level."
Mystogan's muffled voice came through his mask: "The president requested it, so I have no choice."
Erza earnestly stated: "I will give it my all!"
"Please, don't give it your all!"
Wolian's heartfelt plea transmitted through telepathy to everyone's ears present.
Laxus looked somewhat contemptuous: "If you're afraid, it's not too late to quit now, saving me the trouble."
Wolian braced himself, "Who... who's afraid!"
Calmly thinking it over, it's just an exam; they may not really go all out.
Moreover, they can choose a partner as a teammate, and two against one, plus the opponent holding back, might still provide a chance.
The few candidates quickly started considering whom to choose for the greatest chances of winning.
Apart from them, those not selected were also pondering who they should team up with if given a chance next time.
"For me, it's definitely Reby!" Jet and Troy spoke simultaneously, then glanced at each other, sparks seemingly flashing between their eyes.
Hapi said, "For Natsu, teaming up with Rhode would be best, right?"
Natsu responded confidently: "Why Rhode? Of course, I'm teaming up with Hapi."
"Aye!"
Alzack and Bisca exchanged a glance and shyly looked away, promising themselves to qualify next year!
Gray also felt pairing with Rhode would be suitable, but figured that guy would likely participate next year.
At this moment, Loki put an arm around his shoulder: "If you qualify next year, how about I help you?"
"Sure, it's a deal." Gray chuckled, knowing Loki was strong too.
Mira asked, "Who would Rhode pick?"
"Does that even need asking?" Rhode replied with a grin, "I'd pick the President."
Can't choose Mira or other S-Class, but no rules said the President was off-limits.
Mira covered her mouth, laughing: "The President certainly won't do."
"Then... Granny Porlyusica." Rhode came up with another good idea, "If I could get her to help, I'd just escort her around the venue, let's see who would dare attack me."
Mira laughed even heartier, thinking it a perfect plan.
But it felt like it would get him a beating from the President before he could even try.
"The four qualified individuals, and their partners, gather at the station in a week. Adjust to your best state quickly, that's all."
Makarov said his final words, signaling dismissal.
Those not chosen dispersed, having taken too many tasks recently in hope of gaining S-Class qualification; they needed a break.
Some left the guild directly, while others stayed to discuss the participants, even starting to bet who might pass.
The contestants themselves began picking their partners.
Mickey intended to choose a partner from her team, looking for synergy, but needed careful consideration.
Mest vanished after the president announced the results, remaining mysteriously secretive about his plans.
As for Kana and Wolian... they coincidently arrived at the same place, telling the same person: "Rhode, help me out!"
Rhode looked at the two standing in front of him, "Huh? Are you sure you want to pick me?"