Chapter 513: Open the door!
Rhodes, Mira, Erza, and Gildarts had already set off, with Rhodes handling transportation.
Meanwhile, Makarov led the mission to track down remnants of the Anima spell. Lisanna piloted their airship, accompanied by a few Fairy Tail members and several Exceeds.
Back in Magnolia, the remaining Exceeds stayed behind to help guard the city, led by none other than Queen Shagotte.
An agreement had been struck: Makarov promised to take the Exceeds to Earth Land, and if possible, he would also do everything in his power to rescue those of their kind who had been crystallized by the Anima process.
In truth, the help the Exceeds could offer was minimal. But the old man’s heart was too kind to sit back and watch Happy’s and Carla’s people face annihilation. Whether it was exile or genocide, he couldn’t turn a blind eye.
"Your Majesty, we’ve finished gathering the weapons and armor!" one Exceed reported.
"Distribute everything," Queen Shagotte instructed without hesitation.
"Yes, ma’am!"
The Exceeds immediately got to work, flying around the city, handing out gear to Magnolia’s militia and volunteers.
Thanks to Happy and Carla’s presence, the townspeople didn’t find the talking, flying cats all that strange. These diligent, helpful Exceeds quickly won the hearts of the citizens with their earnest attitude and unique charm.
After overseeing the task distribution, Queen Shagotte finally allowed herself a short break. She walked over and quietly sat beside Panther Lily, who was resting with his arms crossed, bandaged and wrapped from earlier wounds.
"I’m sorry, Lily... about what happened back then," she said softly.