Chapter 179: Teaming Up with Erza
In truth, the most suitable person to deal with an enemy like this would have been Mira. But due to her current circumstances, Master Makarov couldn't allow her to go.
Mystogan was assigned to another mission, and Laxus hadn't returned since the end of the S-Class Trials. That left only one candidate: Erza.
As for Rhodes, his summoned creatures provided unique and versatile support that could prove invaluable in a mission like this. Plus, Makarov had been deeply impressed by the red and blue buff's he'd displayed before. He was confident Rhodes could hold his own, no matter how intense the battle became.
During the recent trials, Rhodes also demonstrated excellent coordination and teamwork. Pairing him with Erza wouldn't hinder her, if anything, it might enhance her performance.
Erza made her decision immediately. "Leave it to me. I won't let them succeed."
Rhodes furrowed his brow. There were many myths surrounding Zeref. Some claimed he was a black mage from four hundred years ago and the origin of all dark magic. According to legend, he had created countless demons on his own before being defeated by powerful mages representing the forces of light. Some believed he was slain; others believed he had been sealed away.
Of course, those tales were mainly found in magical folklore and books like Legends of the Magical World, not in historical records. Their truth remained unclear.
Still, demons were very real. Only a few years ago, Deliora had emerged in a country far to the east, though he fortunately been sealed by a powerful Ice-Make wizard. And Mira herself had once transformed into a demon—her "Satan Soul" was infamous among both allies and enemies alike.
It was because demons truly existed that certain black magic cults still clung to the belief that Zeref would one day be reborn to conquer the world.
And whenever these cults made a move, the consequences were always dangerous.
Rhodes voiced his confusion. "What do they even gain by summoning demons? The demons in the Books of Zeref are nothing but killing machines, aren't they?"