Chapter 179: Teaming Up with Erza

In fact, for dealing with these kinds of enemies, Mira would be the most suitable person. Unfortunately, given her current state, the guild master would never allow her to go.

Mystogan was occupied with another mission, and Laxus had been out of sight since the S-Class exam, leaving this mission to fall on Erza's shoulders.

As for Rhodes, his summons were highly versatile and could play a major role in such a mission.

Also, the guild master was impressed with Rhodes' red and blue auras, believing that regardless of the level of battle, he could be of help.

In the last exam, Rhodes also demonstrated excellent teamwork skills, so pairing him with Erza would not hold her back.

Erza decisively declared, "Leave it to me. I won't let them succeed!"

Rhodes frowned. There were many legends about Zeref; he was said to be a dark mage from four hundred years ago, the origin of dark magic.

It was believed that he singlehandedly created countless demons, and was later defeated by mages representing justice. Some say he was killed, others say he was sealed away.

But these were all recorded in the form of legends in books like "Magical Mysteries" rather than history books, making their credibility questionable.

However, demons were indeed real—just a few years ago, a country in the East had reported sightings of Deliora, though fortunately, it was sealed by a powerful mage.

Mira had also once received the demon known as "Satan."

Perhaps because of the existence of these demons, there were still black magic cults worshipping Zeref, believing that one day he would return to conquer the world.

Any incident involving these people often proved extremely dangerous.

Rhodes expressed his confusion, "What's the benefit to them of summoning a demon? The demons in Zeref's books are monsters that only know killing and destruction, right?"

"Maybe it's for power, for world domination, or maybe they are just fanatical followers deceived into worshiping Zeref."

Makarov said, "We can't understand their mindset, but we can't let them run wild either. So, what's your decision?"

"This mission doesn't feel very safe…" Rhodes thought for a moment, "But teaming up with Erza should be fine."

If things really got out of hand, he could always keep his distance, summon some creatures, and give Erza buffs.

An S-Class mage with double buffs—red and blue—just thinking about it sounded powerful.

Mira wanted to say something, but in the end, she simply organized the important information and handed it to Rhodes.

Technically, it should have been given to Erza.

Makarov said, "If you're decided, start preparing now and set off as soon as possible. And... don't be careless."

He thought it would be hard for either Erza's diligence or Rhodes' cautious nature to take this mission lightly.

Erza held out her hand to Rhodes, "I look forward to working with you."

"Same here." Rhodes shook hands with Erza, though it felt a bit awkward.

Mainly because they were already so familiar, and suddenly doing this felt strange.

Erza went back to her dorm to get her belongings, while Rhodes went to the library to pick up a few books to take with him.

Traveling to the northern coast required quite a journey, enough time to go over the information thoroughly.

As Rhodes gathered his things and waited for Erza, Mira hesitated for a moment but still walked over to help adjust his clothes.

Rhodes smiled as Mira softly reminded him, "Be careful on the road. This mission is very dangerous, so don't overdo it. If possible, lean on… lean on Erza a bit more. Don't worry about pride—she's strong, and she wouldn't mock you for showing a bit of weakness. And also..."

The more Rhodes listened, the more amused and a bit uneasy he felt. According to movie plots, Mira suddenly acting like this usually meant he'd meet his end.

When she finished, Rhodes bravely placed his hand on Mira's head, "I got it."

Mira paused, not minding his hand, but instead said somewhat sadly, "Sorry, if I still had my old power…"

"Then I'd be the one worrying about you, just like how you're worrying about me now," Rhodes said with a smile. "Besides, if it were the old you, I'd probably have been beaten up countless times by now."

Mira smiled again, "True, with what you just did, I would've broken both your arms."

"Don't say such scary things with a smile, okay?" Rhodes withdrew his hand, noting that Mira's hair felt quite nice.

Mira laughed, "Then just one arm."

Rhodes pointed at her, "You demon!"

Mira put her hands on her hips, "That's right, that's me."

…

Traveling with Erza gave Rhodes a sense of security.

The trouble, though, was her excessive luggage. Besides renting a carriage for the two of them, they had to rent an extra one just to carry her belongings.

But given her strength, a mere carriage of luggage didn't require Rhodes' help at all.

The two sat in the first carriage, seriously going through the information Mira had given them.

Unlike Natsu, Elfman, or Alzack, Erza read through the materials carefully before a mission and was willing to think things through.

She was similar to Gray, but more proactive—she'd highlight what she thought were key points and actively discuss them with Rhodes.

With her vast experience, this exchange made Rhodes feel at ease.

Finally, he didn't have to think everything through alone! No wonder she left such a reliable impression the first time they met.

Erza planned the route thoughtfully, "Their hideout is near the towns of Manjusaka and Poppi. It'll take us more than a day to get there.

"I suggest we travel further tonight, and if we can't reach a town, we'll camp out. That way, we can arrive as early as possible."

Rhodes nodded, "I don't mind, but what about the drivers?"

Erza said, "Don't worry, I'll discuss it with them."

Normal discussion, right? Rhodes thought about Erza's style, worrying she might end up putting her sword to their throats.

He should keep an eye on that.

Rhodes took out a book he borrowed from the guild's library and handed it to Erza, "This is about the terrain near the northern coast and some information about the villages and towns there. It might come in handy, though some of it is quite old, so just use it as a reference."

Erza took the book and smiled, "As Bisca said, you're really thorough."

Rhodes shook his head slightly, "Since I lack both the strength and experience compared to all of you, this is the only way I can slightly improve the mission's success rate."

Erza said, "You shouldn't belittle yourself. The guild master has praised your abilities more than once."

Rhodes smiled. Due to a lucky coincidence, he had earned some commendation, so of course, he was praised.

He wondered how this mission would turn out.