Author Note: Hello! This is my first multi-chapter story that I hope to progress weekly! Maybe even more if I have the time! Please review as I would love to know what you think, especially as I progress! Much love and happy shipping! Hiro Mashima and his amazing mind own Fairy Tail!
The guild was buzzing with anticipation. It was time for the long anticipated S-class trial announcement. There hadn't been once since the seven-year time skip. As the excited guild members waited impatiently, they spent the time catching up with one another. Many guild members had gone off to train or take solo missions in preparation for the trials, hoping to get picked.
Lucy and Levy talked about the latest books they had read whilst Gray and Natsu argued over who had done more training. Just before they broke into a physical fight, Master, and the four S-class wizards walked out of his office and Master jumped onto the second-floor railings. He called for silence, which was granted only when he used his magic to break Natsu and Gray apart.
"As you know, this is the first time we have done an S-class trial since we were attacked by Grimoire Heart and Achnologia. Myself, Erza, Mirajane, Laxus, and Gildarts have decided upon eight candidates to take part in this year's S-class. Without further ado, they are Gray Fullbuster…"
People cheered as Natsu groaned, "Why did the popsicle get picked before me!"
"Natsu Dragneel…" He grinned whilst Happy and Lucy cheered the loudest.
"Gajeel Redfox…" Pantherlily smiled at Gajeel whilst stating that he knew Gajeel would be picked this year. Levy cheered the loudest as his name was spoken. Lucy jabbed her in the ribs with her elbow, grinning slyly. Levy blushed and looked away.
"Cana Alberona…" Cana sighed and drank a huge gulp of her barrel whilst Gildarts sobbed comically muttering about 'his little girl growing up!'
"Freed Justine…" The Thundergod tribe slapped him on the back in celebration whilst he gave a serene smile to the rest of the cheering crowd.
"Elfman Strauss…" Elfman teared up and shouted about 'manly tears' as Lisanna hugged him.
"Levy McGarden…" Jet and Droy cheered the loudest for her whilst Lucy gave her friend a hug. Gajeel smirked at Levy, which made her blush again remembering Lucy's jab.
"And finally, Lucy Heartfilia!" Lucy froze as Levy hugged and cheered for her. Only unfreezing when she felt Natsu lift her up into the air. "We did it, Luce! We are doing the S-class trials!" Lucy forced a smile in Natsu's direction, whilst she felt dread pool in her stomach.
"Listen up children!" Master shouted over the cheering crowd. Silence fell more quickly this time, as the participants awaited their instructions. "Each participant must choose a partner that is also a participant. You will work on the first trial together, which you will be informed about on the journey to Tenrou. Pick your partners carefully! I will see you next week at Dawn in Hargeon Harbour! Good luck brats!"
Natsu quickly grabbed Lucy and stated firmly that they were partners for the first trial. Lucy nodded whilst throwing an apologetic glance at Levy as Natsu pulled her away. As quickly as Natsu snatched Lucy up, Gajeel patted Levy's head whilst telling her she would be his partner. Levy rolled her eyes at the demanding tone Gajeel used but agreed whilst smiling. Gray and Cana partnered up, much to the irritation of Juvia who muttered about love-rivals being everywhere. The final partnership being easily formed between Elfman and Freed who had worked together more recently due to Elfman's and Evergreen's secret (not very secret) relationship.
Whilst dragging Lucy to her house, Natsu noticed that Lucy was not as talkative as she should be considering the events of the past hour. He pondered on the look he saw on Lucy's face when Master spoke her name as a candidate. Natsu recognised the look. It was full of doubt and fear. But what, Natsu was unsure. He decided that he would ask her when they were back in her apartment. He didn't ever want to see those emotions on his best friends face. Especially when she should be excited. But he had a plan to cheer her up and then she'd be just as excited as he was. Now he was all fired up!