Marco accepted it quite quickly.
Even Bobo and the others themselves didn't fully understand their own history, only saying their ancestors had lived on that island for generations.
Perhaps their race had simply always existed.
Although Zeref had created many "demons," that didn't mean all demons were created by Zeref.
The reason "Zeref's demons" were so famous was simply because those he created were powerful demons who often caused trouble, earning their notoriety through evil deeds.
Demons like those on "Galuna Island" had average strength and lived quietly, minding their own business, remaining undiscovered all this time.
"This works out well too. We can help each other with Galuna Island, each getting what we need. Their specialties can enrich our menu."
Mira slowly nodded, accepting both the reality that the guild now had a demon girl and that Fairy Tail had established supply channels with Galuna Island.
Mira wasn't a stubborn person.
She wouldn't discriminate against Lilian just because she was a demon - demon was merely the child's race.
Mira believed that child definitely wouldn't commit evil deeds like the stereotypical demons, but would instead uphold justice within Fairy Tail.
"Marco, what's this mission about?"
While Marco was chatting with Mira, Makarov approached him while carrying a liquor bottle.
He hopped onto the chair beside Marco and asked with a puzzled expression.
Facing his grandfather, Marco naturally didn't hide anything.
He skillfully explained everything again - these matters should be known by the old man anyway, since he was the guild master of Fairy Tail.
Though the old man was getting older, he could still fight and maintained very high prestige.
"Good, you handled this well."
After listening to Marco's explanation, Makarov stood up and patted Marco's shoulder approvingly.
He had to stand on the chair to reach Marco's shoulder.
"I knew you would support this too." Marco said with a laugh.
It wasn't empty flattery - he understood his grandfather well and knew the old man would approve of his approach.
His relatively gentle handling would definitely earn praise from the kind-hearted old man.
"You've matured so much." Makarov took a drink and sighed.
What he left unsaid was that Laxus.... remained immature.
"Since things have come to this, let it be."
Makarov sighed inwardly.
Although he had been training Marco, delegating authority to him, and bringing him to various meetings, it would be truly unfair to say he was biased or hadn't given Laxus chances.
Makarov felt he had given Laxus many opportunities, but the boy couldn't seize them - Laxus wasn't even willing to try, stubbornly clinging to his own ideals.
Now, the guild master candidate was completely settled in Makarov's heart.
There was no need to consider further or give others chances - Marco was the most suitable candidate.
Gildarts, Laxus, Mystogan, Erza, Mirajane - each of the S-Class Mages in the guild had their own issues, whether personality problems or simply lacking interest in leadership.
Macao and Wakaba, with their seniority, have no issues in terms of personality—they are sufficiently tactful and experienced to handle guild affairs properly.
The problem lies in their strength.
The guild master of Fairy Tail must possess considerable strength; otherwise, if someone like Jose Porla dared to provoke them again, wouldn't they have to bury their heads in the sand like ostriches? That is unacceptable.
Placing Marco among these candidates seems overwhelmingly comprehensive—his strength, personality, willingness, and abilities are all top-notch.
"Marco, I've decided to announce something."
Having made up his mind, Makarov suddenly spoke up.
"Huh? What is it?"
Marco took a sip of his iced drink and asked in surprise.
The old man's sudden serious expression was quite alarming, especially since he was usually so carefree.
When he got serious, it truly meant something big was happening.
A trace of concern also appeared on Mira's face.
The old man's stern expression made it feel like something major was about to occur.
"I've decided that you will succeed me as the guild master."
As soon as Makarov spoke these words, they were indeed shocking—even Marco was somewhat taken aback.
"What?!"
Mirajane exclaimed in astonishment; it was all too sudden.
"Wait, it's not an immediate succession, right?"
Marco raised his hand and asked the first question.
"Of course not. It's just to confirm your eligibility first."
Makarov replied with a serious expression, then added quietly, "This way... it might also make some people give up."
At these words, both Marco and Mirajane fell silent.
Mira picked up a cup and pretended to be busy cleaning it.
She certainly knew who Makarov was referring to, but honestly, Mira didn't think that person would give up easily.
Personally, Mirajane naturally supported Marco.
Even from a public standpoint, she would back him—she didn't agree with Laxus's views.
"Is this really necessary?"
If even Mirajane felt Laxus wouldn't give up easily, Marco was even more certain.
He understood his "foolish older brother" better than anyone else.
If Grandpa Makarov announced now that Marco would succeed him as guild master, Laxus would absolutely not let it go.
"Isn't it a bit too early?" Marco tried to persuade him.
He didn't want to provoke Laxus.
Although he had always been striving for the guild master position, he didn't want to ruin his relationship with Laxus over it.
"Cut the knot when it's time. There's no need to drag it out any longer."
Makarov shook his head, still firm in his decision.
He knew deep down that Laxus would be very dissatisfied, but letting this issue erupt sooner would help Laxus accept reality earlier.
It was better than prolonging it indefinitely.
"Addressing it early allows for early adjustment—that's one way to solve the problem."
The old man's words somewhat convinced Marco.
It was indeed a method, even if it seemed a bit drastic.
"Is it time for strong medicine now?" Marco hesitated internally.
They were still young, and the old man wasn't that old yet—he could still keep things under control.
Was it really necessary to take such strong measures?
Marco had always been subtly influencing Laxus, and it had some effect, though not as much as he had hoped.
"It's settled then."
Although Marco was still hesitating, Makarov had clearly made up his mind.
He made the decision directly, not allowing Marco to overthink it.
Marco could only remain silent.
He had no idea what had gotten into the old man to suddenly pull such a move.
The question was whether this move would prove to be a standard play, a brilliant maneuver, or just a common tactic?
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