The Champions Ring (Nalu)

Beginning Of An Era

I was sitting on the bench, waiting for the others to get done with their matches. Honestly, this was the first time in a while I've gotten nervous before a fight. It was just that something isn't right about today.

Something was... off.

"And a K.O by Panther Lily!" The referee raised Lily's fist while stepping over the opponents lifeless body.

I don't even think he was breathing.

"Our next next match to start is a fan favorite. In this corner, welcome one of our veteran fighters, Natsu Dragneel!"

The crowd cheered as they heard my name. I climbed inside the ring and sat in my corner, preparing for the match. I made sure there was nothing wrong with my gloves and my shorts. As I was putting on my shorts I saw the announcer talking to one of the refs. I wonder what's up.

"According to the judges, we have a change in opponents."

"What?" I thought.

"In the other corner," he opened an envelope, taking out a card, "we have, Kai Konani!"

My heart stopped.

My breathing hitched.

My hand began trembling.

My eyes widened.

I haven't heard that name in years.

"This scarf must really mean something to you huh?"

"It was... the last thing my dad left me."

He touched his chest, "that's so sweet." He dangled my scarf in front of me, "I wouldn't ruin a precious gift that a loving father gave to his child before he died."

I manged to stick out my hand, attempting to grab the scarf, "thank you-" my eyes widened at what he did next.

He ripped it in two.

I clenched my fist remembering that day. He was one of the reasons why I fight today.

To become stronger and beat anyone who gets in my way.

I stared at him, glaring, as he came  into the ring. Just looking at him is hard to do without wanting to punch his face in. I'll never forget what that bastard did.

He turned and gave that evil smirk. The same one from that day, "Well, well, well..." He put his hands on his hips, "if it isn't the almighty Dragneel. Never thought I would see you again after I graduated high school."

"Well, here we are," I said.

"Here. we. are." He chuckled, "Good luck by the way, I hope your ready."

"Same to you," I smirked.

Returning the gesture, he went to his corner and prepared as well.

I sat in my chair, waiting for the match to start. I couldn't wait to get this fight started. After all those years, after what he did to me and Erza... I won't lose.

I just can't.

"Hey kid!" I glanced around, making sure it wasn't me who was being called, "behind you!" I turned to see an old man in a tan trench coat and a black fedora. He was pretty... short.

"You're gloves dropped on the floor," He said, handing me my gloves.

"Oh," I grabbed the gloves from him, "thanks."

"I see you're a Gildarts fan." He smiled.

I looked down at my gloves, "yeah, especially when I was a kid. I remember watching him all the time and wanting to be just like him."