Lucy and Natsu went back into the guild, looking as happy as ever.
Many guild members were crowding around the main table.
"Hey! Let's go over there!" Natsu said.
"Umm...sure, I guess." Lucy said.
"Everyone! Since a year has passed from our last great victory in the Grand Magic Games, we were invited again this year!" The master spoke.
Everyone cheered.
"Now, we have to choose our teams." Master said.
"Who agrees we should have the same teams again?" Someone yelled.
"Yeah! Mira, Laxus, Juvia, Mystogan, and Gajeel! And! Natsu, Lucy, Erza, Gray, and Wendy!" Someone else exclaimed.
The guild fell silent.
Silent murmurs spread among them.
"Mystogan? He's not here anymore."
"Lucy? But she's..."
"Everyone!" The master yelled again.
"This time, we will be replacing Mystogan with Gildarts..and Lucy with...Lucia!" The master said again.
Many people agreed on this.
"Gildarts is coming back!" People yelled.
Natsu gave Lucia a high five, but to his disappointment, Lucy looked depressed.
"Hey, Lucy. Why aren't you happy that you're in the games?" Natsu asked.
"B-because the master said...I'm...replacing...Lucy." Lucy said.
Natsu paused...and froze.
"I'm sure he didn't mean it that way, Luce." He said, giving her a grin.
"Y-yeah." She said.
"So! Let's train, then!" Natsu said.
"Wait...do you need Ultear's help by opening your second origin?" Natsu asked.
"After all, it increases you magic powers." He added.
"Ultear?" Lucy asked.
"Oh...she's a friend who uses Time Magic." Natsu said.
Lucy smiled. "I use that magic too."
Natsu frowned. "Right. I almost forgot. Ultear disappeared after the dragons attacked. Gray said...she used the Last Ages of Time Ark and killed herself to save us..."
"Oh."
"Well...actually, she's an old lady now, so I hope she finds peace in her new life." Natsu gave a small smile.
And...Lucy. Don't you EVER use the Last Ages, no matter what happens." Natsu said seriously.
"It's okay. I will know what is right." Lucy said softly.
But...
Lucy never said she wouldn't use it...
She said...
She knows what is right...