Thank you guys, for putting up with the long, long wait. As always enjoy. All rights belong to Hiro Mashima he owns the fairytail characters, aswell as my sanity waiting for the new dragon cry movie!

There could be worse situations to be in, Lucy summarised arms folded, studiously ignoring a glowering Dragon Slayer. All the members of team Natsu had been called in for a guild meeting. Makarov had taken Mavis to his private quarters upstairs where she was being checked over by Polyscura.

Evergreen had unfrozen the remaining guild members, and Erza had sent them all home early for the day, nursing sores and scrapes. Juvia upon hearing the commotion inside the guild had released Laxus, who rather than admit he'd been outsmarted by the celestial wizard decided to hold his tongue returning home to nurse a bruised ego.

Gray had recounted the events leading to Mavis's release, much to Gajeel and Natsu's horror. Levy felt Gajeel's grip tighten considerably on her arm, she peeked at him worriedly out of the corner of her eye, his jaw tightened, the metal piercings standing out harshly against his tanned skin. 'We'll talk about this later' he barked shooting her a knowing glance, Levy squirmed but wisely remained silent.

Erza surprised the group shooting Lucy a wry grin. She was seated at the bar using a fine rag to clean her breastplate armour. 'I shouldn't be impressed' she levelled Lucy with a maternal stare, Lucy at least had the decency to look remorseful, shuffling her feet awkwardly, her gaze occasionally landing on Natsu. The flames rolled of his body like a blazing inferno. 'But Laxus was a stronger opponent...it's good to see you're trainings paying of' she nodded approvingly and Lucy felt her cheeks infuse with bashful heat.

'it's down to you're patient teaching, I had no idea how much power it takes just to requip one star dress never mind-'

'Could you not encourage her' Natsu snapped interrupting a gushing Lucy. Erza wisely said nothing further. The red head went back to repairing her armour. Like wise Gajeel, Gray and Levy were huddled together appearing 'deep in conversation' in order to give the couple some privacy. Lucy's lips snapped together in a pinched line, her jaw stuck out stubbornly, she refused to acknowledge Natsu. Happy was curled around Natsu's neck, he could hear the growl of annoyance building in his Nakama's chest.

'Natsu don't be so hard on her' Happy warned, knowing it would just end with both of them hurting. 'She thought she did what was right, you were too far to contact. Lucy made a split second decision to investigate the basement. We couldn't have known it would release Mavis. Personally...I think we should have told her from the start. All both of you do is lie and hide the truth to protect each other, but what good has that done you?' Happy sighed tiredly, seeming wiser than his years.

Some of the fire in them deflated. Natsu made a noise of frustration before opening his arms, without a word Lucy walked across the guild into them, he cradled her, wrapping his arms around her lower back. Lucy rested her head on his shoulder against Happy's fur, he stroked her spine with warm callused fingers. 'Don't worry me like that again' Natsu whispered firmly tightening his hold.

'I'm sorry' Lucy admitted sinking into the warmth of him. Her chocolate eyes opened sheepishly. 'And um about...what you did...thank you' she said solemnly, seeing her grave alongside her parents had shocked her to the core. Natsu shifted uneasily, a blush rising along his neck.

'I thought'd you'd be furious, but seeing that grave there-I couldn't- I ' Lucy shushed him, cradling his face in her hands, she forced him to look at her. Happy rolled his eyes and flew of to sit beside Erza, allowing them they're privacy, neither noticed. Natsu leaned into Lucy, closing his onyx eyes, just happy to be near her.

'It's ok, id have done the same thing had our roles been reversed' she assured him. Then she surprised him by kissing him tenderly on the lips, Natsu's hands stroked the small of her back igniting a fire in Lucy's belly. 'You always do right by me, even if I'm too stubborn to see it '. She rested her forehead against his as they embraced. I hope so Natsu thought nervously, gripping something tightly in his pocket.

'Brats!' Makarov thundered, as they broke apart, Both Natsu and Lucy took a discreet step backwards.

'Master' Erza nodded standing nervously. Makarov glanced at her serious expression, unable to keep a grip on his anger. Erza was so honest and open, Markarov knew that she would never knowingly deceive someone unless she believed the cause was just. Makarov knew he should have been more open with his children, but he feared this very result, Natsu and Lucy were too blood thirsty, too eager to get revenge. Now Lucy had forced the guilds hand, and it was time to plan.

'Mavis would like to greet you personally, we have much to discuss. As soon as Zeref learns of Mavises awakening the full might of the Alvarez empire will descend upon Fiore.' Makarov paced the length of the guild, wearing grooves into the floor.

Levy tentatively raised her hand in question, Makarov nodded, giving her permission to continue.

'Iv managed to decipher a few of the runes with Lucy's help, but I think what were all wondering is how. How is Mavis the ultimate weapon against Zeref? If I remember correctly from you're stories didn't you say Mavis's power was illusion magic? We can't trick Zeref into killing himself obviously, so how will this help us?' The others all nodded eagerly, relived that Levy was brave enough to voice their concerns.

Makarov pursed his lips stroking his beard thoughtfully, hands clasped behind his back in a considering manner. 'For nearly a century Mavis has been encased in lacrima. As you know Lacrima is a source of pure magic' Makarov began, looking at each of his children waiting for the inevitable-

'That's the substance that Natsu ingested at the tower of heaven?' Lucy interrupted raising her hand in the air like an eager pupil. Natsu elbowed her for interrupting, Lucy shot him an annoyed look. The guild master allowed himself a small smile.

'Yes, and you remember it-'

'Gave him the power boost to defeat Jellal' Levy said her eyes shining with understanding.

'Yes' Makarov answered a little more tersely, shooting the team a disapproving look. 'Now Mavis's body was encased in Lacrima, a curse known as the Akersham curse prevented Mavis from dying. So her body absorbed the power of the Lacrima, now body and spirit have been reunited, Mavis has been turned into-

'A finite fuel source, but how do we tap into that power?' Levy interrupted, she and Lucy sharing a thoughtful look.

'Will you stop interrupting?' Makarov roared, growing in size until even Erza flinched. He eyed levy and Lucy in particular, 'you have to be the most troublesome group of brats I have ever-'

'I can think of someone who caused me a few heart attacks...well if I'd technically been alive that is'. Mavis reminded him descending the guild steps, the group stared at her in astonishment.

'Merlins beard, it's really you' Gray gasped, Mavis giggled girlishly as she passed him, coming to stand beside Makarov near the stage of the guild hall. Makarov stood wearily choosing to ignore her last remark.

'To answer you're question, you don't'. Mavis stared at her guildmates individually, especially noting the stubborn set to Lucy's jaw. Lucy stared at Mavis, trying to hold back the tide of exclamations as Mavis stood there calmly, a small smile hovered over her lips.

'I don't think you understand the situation' Lucy said with false patience, shooting Mavis a kind if somewhat condescending look. Mavis's eyes narrowed and she raised her elfin chin proudly.

'No Lucy, you don't understand. With the right curse, Zeref can harvest my power, and use it to destroy Fiore'. Lucy's cheeks coloured at her own impatience. Gajeel snickered.

'I'm sorry' Lucy admitted exhaling a gust of air, apologising much to Natsu and Happy's astonishment. 'Im just-'

'Frustrated? We all are' Mavis added her tone a little quieter. She addressed the small group directly in front of her. 'When we take on Zeref, make no mistake, we go to war'. Mavis's eyes landed on each member. 'But we need it to be on OUR terms. Zeref, cannot be given any advantage. He can take out an army without a moments hesitation'. Then they listened quietly as Mavis told them a story, the origin of fairytail, how Zeref had taught the founding mages magic, how Mavis had inacted the Ankhseram curse to save a life just as Zeref had to save his little brother.

Lucy who'd been listening to Mavis's story as enraptured at the others shifted uncomfortably. Natsu's arms tightened instinctively around her. Since they're return to magnolia, it was moments of peace like this that Natsu sought. The feel of Lucy's head resting against his chest, the blonde strands of her hair tickling his nose. And the fire in his stomach as her fingers trailed his arms lazily. 'What's wrong Luce?' His voice came out rougher than he intended, causing Lucy to shiver. She half turned shooting him a troubled smile.

'That he cursed himself, to save his brother...When we were in the dungeons below Crocus castle he told me then. I just didn't believe that any part of him could be good or noble'.

Natsu shrugged unconcerned, in the end the reasoning didn't matter, not when the results were the same. 'None of us are painted in shades of black or white, look at us, everything we've ever said or done was always because we loved each other, happy was right'. Lucy blushed and stroked his cheek. The others were still to immersed in Mavis's story to notice.

'Natsu, when did you get so mature?' She sniggered, her fingers, gliding lower to tickle his ribs, half turning in his arms. Natsu grabbed her waist and held her there. Lucy's brown eyes widened she could feel every line of him pressed against her.

'Because I'm serious about this, about us' Natsu titled her chin up to meet his gaze, her breath stuttered, always a sure sign she was loosing her train of thought. He nipped her lips lightly, causing the Celestial Mage to clear her throat gruffly. Her eyes lingered on his mouth. 'I love you, Lucy'

'Why so serious?' She asked, catching up with his mood. She wound her hands around his back something hard dug into her hip. Lucy chocked back a laugh 'Natsu' her eyes glinted devilishly as her hand tickled the fine hairs on his neck, the pink haired Mage shuddered. 'Are you happy to see me?'

Natsu didn't respond, just dipped his head to capture her lips. A few moments later, Levy looked to her friend, noting her odd silence. The two were locked into a slightly intimate embrace, Gajeel muttered under his breath beside her. Levy grinned wickedly, running a strand of dark locks between her fingers. 'Aren't you going to break them up?' She tugged on his hair playfully, he ran his hand through it irritated but not quite meeting her eyes. 'Not today' he said under his breath. And before she could ask why, the group was interrupted by a hammering on the guild doors. Lucy and Natsu broke apart with sheepish expressions.

Makarov raised an irritable brow at the couple, but didn't reprimand them. He walked over to the guild doors cracking them open, Mira and Lisana hovered outside, Lisana clutched a black envelope in her hands. 'Girls?' He asked calmly. Lisana placed a letter into his hand and the two takeover mages exchanged nervous glances.

'We were on our way to the guild, to see if you needed help tidying up after today's circus' Mira's eyes flashed cheekily. Makarov closed his eyes trying not to mentally calculate the property damage.

'We ran into a messenger, he was wearing The royal colours and emblem of Crocus'. Lisana impatiently indicated to the black envelope bearing the royal seal. 'He asked us to deliver this letter to our Guild master, apparently the top 5 strongest guilds all received one'. Makarov, grinned devilishly for a moment enjoying the implied praise.

'He mentioned something about a tournament' Makarov raised a brow in interest and opened the letter reading its contents.

'Dearest Makarov,

You have been selected to take part in this years grand magic games. 5 guilds will be competing in this years tournament for the title of Strongest guild. Need I remind you that this opportunity not will not only bring fame and recognition to you're guild (bringing in the best jobs) but a considerable cash prize of 50 million Jewel will be donated to the winners. Last year, fairy tail failed to make the qualifying stage. But this year the event is being paid for by our Generous benefactors, from the Alvarez empire. The magic games are an important part of our countries peace agreements. Two guilds from the Alvarez empire have also been selected in this years tournament. And our benefactor Zeref Heartfilia has expressed keen interest in Fairy tails participation. We eagerly await you're fast reply.

Yours sincerely

Princess Hisuine of Crocus

The remaining colour drained from Makarov's face. He motioned for the girls to follow him into the guild, they gasped at the sight of Mavis. She waved cheerfully completely oblivious to they're distress, perched on the bottom of the guild steps. Her lacy white dress clung snugly to her small body. Lisana shot Natsu a questioning look, Lucy was snuggled into the curve of his arms, they seemed content she was pleased to note. Natsu tilted his head to the guild doors, mouthing that he would explain later.

'It seems the choice might not be ours to make, we've been summoned to Crocus to take part in the grand magic games at the request of Her Majesty Princess Hisuine...and Zeref heartfilia'. Mavis snatched the letter from Makarov her eyes scanning the page.

'What?' Lucy gasped, walking to Mavis she read the letter over her shoulder. Her eyes found Natsu's in disgust. 'Why would he use my surname?' She asked her voice faint with revulsion.

'When you're father died he left you a small allowance in his will, His assets were seized by Zeref. They were business partners and Zeref seized control over the remaining heartfilia fortune' Makarov explained. 'After you made it clear you wished not to return home, Jude contacted me and made me legal guardian of you're inheritance, until you came of age, in the event of his death' Makarov said kindly patting Lucy on the shoulder.

'He finally did something sensible' she laughed harshly avoiding the sympathetic looks of her guildmates.

'He's baiting Lucy' Natsu guessed correctly, his brows drawing together in concern. 'Whatever schemes he's cooked up has always involved her'. The others nodded, shifting uneasily.

Lucy surprised them by staring directly at Mavis, they're was a quiet fury in the depths of her brown eyes, but she kept it under control directing her question to the first master 'What's our plan then? Do we go?'

Mavis considered this for a moment head tilted, hands lightly tapping her small pale arms. 'Yes' the tiny elfin girl nodded. Everyone (Makarov included) began to protest at once, they're voices a cacophony of alarm. Mavis held her hand up in a gesture of quiet shooting them a steely look, it had the desired effect. This fragile girl commanded respect, in a way that even Makarov had to envy. 'I know it's a trap, but if we don't accept, Zeref could bring an army to us. That would put the other guild memebers not to mention Magnolia at risk.

'Too many people have died, caught up in Zeref's plan'. Lucy quietly agreed, casting her mind back to the dungeon in Fiore. When she had killed those innocent soldiers in her dragon form.

'We'll need a team' Makarov looked at the few guild members thoughtfully, weighing they're talents and weaknesses carefully. Natsu, Gajeel and Gray shot each other excited looks standing proudly.

'Erza you will be team Captain' Erza flashed a rare smile requipping into her newly mended heartz Cruz amour.

'Mira, Natsu and Laxus will form the rest of our team they are some of the strongest Mages in our guild' Silence followed his words, Gajeel, Gray and Lucy began to protest all at once.

'I'm easily as strong as flame brain!' Gajeel and Gray hissed. Natsu's eyes were gleaming, his body softly shaking with silent chuckles barley controlling his glee.

'Silence!' Makarov barked growing in size. The guild once again quietened. 'You're time will come. Being apart of this tournament isn't about glory, we're fighting a very real battle here!' Makarov glared at them each individually. His voice softened when he looked at Lucy she was brooding silently, not meeting the guild masters gaze. 'Lucy you know why we can't put you on the team. That would be playing right into Zerefs hands. For once I need you not to be reckless' Lucy nodded.

'I understand' she said softly, before steeling herself and turning to Natsu with a hard smile 'il be cheering you on, so don't let me down' to Natsu's complete surprise she placed a quick peck on his cheek. Natsu, went bright red, his body suffused with nervous joy at the thought of impressing Lucy. He stuttered a very un Natsu like reply, and Gajeel rolled his eyes slamming his fist down on the table.

'Really?! That's who you're sending, what is he going to kiss Zeref to death?' Makarov was saved from replying, as a fire ball smacked into the back of Gajeels head. He yelped, and quickly swatted it out but he could still smell the burning scent of hair. It had taken him weeks to grow it back in, he turned scowling at Natsu, only to find the guild staring curiously at Lucy. Her hands were alight with flame and she was breathing heavily, the fire magic already taking its toll on her body. He brown eyes were narrowed and she was half crouching in a fighting stance.

'Please' she snickered between shallow breaths, regaining her colour. Natsu reached for her in concern, but she brushed of his reaching hands levelling Gajeel with a glare. 'What makes you think you even stood a chance against Natsu, when you can't even beat me...?' Gajeel rose to the bait as expected, they're old rivalry rearing its ugly head.

'Enough, Erza take you're team for a few training exercises. Gray, Gajeel, Lucy...I want you to remain here, everyone else you're dismissed'. The guild knew they had been scolded, soundly.

'But I didn't do anything!' Gray protested, Lucy shot him a warning glare and he quieted, muttering under his breath.

'I won't let you down, Lucy...il make you proud' Natsu promised her, kissing her soundly on the lips. Lucy smiled at him with great affection as they departed, the dragon slayer and exceed throwing her a final wave.

Lucy waited until she heard the door close with a mighty thud. Makarov who had caught Levys hand, preventing her from leaving, gestured to the guild doors. 'If you would be so kind as to put a silencing Rune on the guild doors, Levy dear, I don't want us to be overheard' Levy nodded at the guild Masters and made her way over to the large doors, turning uncertainly.

'Then would you like me to leave with the others?' Her voice high and pleading. She looked beseechingly at Lucy for support. Mavis chuckled.

'You might aswell stay, I know Lucy and Gajeel can't keep a secret from you anyhow'. The two dragon slayers exchanged knowing glances, Levy could be ruthless in the pursuit of information.

'So that was a load of Crap old man' Lucy said crossing her arms furiously, letting her anger show. 'You know Erza and Mira trained me hard, and just today I proved that I could easily outsmart you're grandson...no offence' she said sheepishly, reigning in her annoyance. To all their surprise, Makarov just grinned shaking his head.

'Oh I wish I could have seen his face' he wiped away an invisible tear, still chuckling. 'I doubt thats something the brat will forget, you wounded his ego. A lesson I should have taught him long ago' Makarov, sobered himself meeting each remaining members eyes.

'Take a good look at you're new team mates' Mavis said, her childlike voice serious. 'If Zeref thinks we'll willingly play by his rules he has another thing coming. You're the sixth team'. Lucy and Gray looked at each other in surprise. Gajeel grinned, his eyes narrowing evilly.

'I take it you want to keep this a secret?' His red eyes were feverish, already imagining the look of outrage on Natsu's face when he realised Makarov had picked them as his secret weapon.

'Until the games, yes. It'll give us a greater chance of winning. Until then I want you four to practice together. I'm assuming the team from the Alvarez empire is Zerefs, it'll give us a chance to challenge him head on. If we were to openly attack him in Crocus it could start a civil War, especially as he is a guest of Princess Hisuine. But if we openly defeat him in combat it'll break no laws. Lucy...I'm giving you the best shot I can' Lucy nodded, her eyes filled with gratitude. Haku, Makarov...she felt like they had been training her for this day.

'Wait you said fourth' Gray asked curiously looking at Levy who had finished placing runes of silence along the guild walls. She looked at them alarmed, and Gajeel puffed up his chest, emitting a feirce growl.

'Absolutely NOT' his red eyes were wild as they zeroed in on Makarov, a vein pulsed in his temple. 'I don't want Levy anywhere near Zeref..' he began launching into a fresh tirade.

Makarov held his hand up in a gesture of peace. 'Levy will merely help you with you're training, her rune magic is similar to that used to set out the games in the arena. She can also lay traps that force you to rely on you're instincts as well as magic'.

'Makarov is talking about Juvia, Gray-Sama. Juvia could not help overhearing, when she followed you into the guild' Juvia said slipping out of the shadows, looking at Makarov confidently. Gray nearly jumped out of his skin, Lucy and Gajeel snickered, the water mage just shrugged, unashamed.

Lucy and Gajeel sized each other up before turning to Makarov and shouting in unison 'Whose team leader?' Mavis laughed, her small elfin face fierce with challenge.

'Zeref will expect us to hide Lucy' she tilted her head shooting Makarov a considering look. Makarov nodded gravely, and the first master shot them a sly grin. 'Lets do the opppsite It, It will rattle him, not only that but Lucy's spent months training with her guild mates, she knows what games her team would be suited for and is well versed in battle strategy.'

Gajeel growled, and Lucy had to bite her lip (hard) to keep from teasing him.

'I won't let you down, first master, Gramps' Lucy nodded to them and Makarov nodded, frowning. Lucy would prove to him that she wasn't just a reckless dragon slayer.

'Fine, but if it comes to a fight between Erza's team and ours, Natsu's mine' Gajeel snarled, looming over Lucy, his red eyes dared her to disagree. Lucy laughed and agreed knowing Gajeel wouldn't back down.

'Then Il leave Erza to Juvia' she gave the horrified Water Mage an innocent glance.

'E-Erza...Chan? Juvia cannot...' Juvia's body began to dissolve into a puddle remembering they're battle on Tenrou.

'But you wouldn't want to let Gray down, he's counting on you' Lucy smiled evilly, gray bristled and Gajeel sniggered deciding that Lucy wouldn't make such a bad team captain after all.

''Juvia will do it to prove her love for Gray-Sama' Juvia sighed, her body reforming, she clutched Gray's arm. Gray tried uselessly to shrug her off and shot Lucy a cool stare.

'Great now you've given her ideas' the team descended into friendly laughter and bickering, they would work together well Mavis summarised watching them.

'Don't worry Makarov, we'll defeat him this time' she said to the old wizard quietly. Makarov ran his tanned hand through his greying hair, hands that had fought in battles, hands that had nursed and scolded his children, Mavis reflected and now they were sending them into battle. Magic games or not that's what it would be, Zeref didn't take prisoners.

'It just feel like we're playing into his hands' Makarov said, his face set in harsh lines, though he looked at Lucy's team with affection in his eyes.

'If we refuse his summons, he'll bring the full force of Alvarez's army into Magnolia, we can't risk innocent lives, and there's nowhere to run, he will find us'.

'So we make our stand' Makarov sighed. Mavis gripped his hand, and he squeezed it tightly.

Later that night, Natsu returned bruised and battered to find Lucy had cooked lasagne. She set a steaming plate onto the table before Natsu, shooting him a warning look to wash the blood of his hands. He chuckled darkly. Untying his shoes and placing them by the door, his scarf was the only article of clothing that wasn't covered in earth. Lucy's eyes looked him over appreciatively, before she turned back to the stove, extinguishing the flame.

'Isn't she amazing?' Happy said deliriously as the scent of food drifted to his nostrils. His wings appeared and he landed on the wooden stool next to one of the place settings Lucy had set out.

'Careful' Natsu smiled, kissing Lucy on her neck in greeting, she shivered but avoided his hungry gaze. Natsu turned on the tap letting the hot water wash away the blood and dirt under his fingernails. 'Carla might think you're interested in other women' happy grinned waspishly at his nakama. As he dried his hands.

'Why don't you tell Lucy, whose blood that is on you're hands?' The Celestial Mage looked at Natsu curiously as she sat beside Happy. Natsu shrugged nervously, as he joined them. Lucy lit the candles at the table with her fingertips, the flames danced bathing them in a golden light. 'It was Laxus, he picked a fight with him for hurting you before Erza even had them doing drills'. Natsu shovelled food into his mouth as fast as he could before the lecture started, he could hear Lucy grinding her teeth. 'He won, but barely. Only because he was angrier. Two lost fights in one day, Laxus will be after you both'.

'Baka' Lucy said grabbing the serving spoon and throwing it as his head. Natsu caught it easily, using it to grab a second helping.

'I won't let anyone touch you again Luce' he looked at her solemnly his canines flashing, despite her annoyance, she felt her insides turning to molten lava under his stare. Natsu remembered their time on Tenrou when he saw Lucy beaten in front of him. The whole experience had changed him, he was more protective of Lucy. More serious when considering his comrades safety in battle.

'Overbearing ass' she said affectionately, grabbing the spoon from him and serving happy a larger portion. Natsu scowled. 'So how was training?' She asked redirecting the conversation to safer waters. Natsu grimaced apologetically.

'I'm sorry Erza's forbidden us from telling anyone' shes taken this captain thing far to seriously' he recalled with fresh fear as Erza had marched them into Magnolia forest, brandishing a mean looking scythe, using it to threaten them into running laps. 'What about you? Did Makarov give you a hard time?' Lucy was silent for a minute pushing her uneaten food around the plate.

'He wants me to train, in preparation for meeting Zeref...I'm training with Gray and a few others'

'In prep for what?' Natsu asked folding his arms, regarding Lucy carefully. She grinned sheepishly.

'I can't tell you right now either. We agreed no more lies, so just know that's all I can tell you...for now' the mages smiled warily at each other.

'I still can't believe he didn't choose Gray or Gajeel for the team' Natsu shook his head mystified. Lucy offered him a devilish smile, her brown eyes reflected in the candlelight.

'I don't think Gajeel minds at least' she murmured her lips twisting secretively. Natsu stared at her momentarily dazed, Happy used the opportunity to swap Natsu's plate for his empty one. Lucy noticed but said nothing, she played with a strand of hair that fell loosely down the nape of her neck, Natsu followed the strand, swallowing hard.

'Later' she mouthed the words, Natsu felt his core temperature rise.

'Lucy, I have something I want to show you' Natsu said standing suddenly, surprising both his nakamas. Lucy cocked her head coyly, her lips curling upwards into a sly smile.

'Oh..?' She asked, and Happy grumbled under his breath, his blue fur was tinted with red sauce. He wiped his mouth with the back of his paw.

'Can you at least wait until Iv finished dinner, and excused myself? Natsu you're such a lecher.' Natsu's cheeks flamed in indignation, Lucy's eyebrows rose silently, her shoulders shaking in mirth.

'I am not..I just...I...I have something I'd like Lucy to see' Lucy shook her head, still grinning. He was just making it sound worse. Natsu shuffled his feet and tugged at his scarf nervously.

'Just meet me by our cherry blossom tree in Magnolia park in an hour' he ordered, striding out the door without a backwards glance. The two remaining nakamas, sat there in stunned silence.

'Did he actually just storm out?' Lucy asked equal parts amused and irritated.

'Are you eating that?' Happy interrupted, stroking his already bulging belly. Lucy smiled to herself pushing the plate to happy who wolfed it down without a seconds hesitation.

'He even forgot his shoes' she murmured, excusing herself and headed upstairs. She removed her apron and eyed her meagre wardrobe. Whatever Natsu wanted seemed urgent, she recalled the last time he asked to meet her in secret and smiled. She selected a key from her weapons belt. 'Gate of the crab I-'

'Ebi?' A voice asked behind her, and Lucy for all her martial arts training emitted a girlish squeal. Cancer chuckled leaning against the polished wood of Lucy and Natsu's bedroom door. His arms were folded and his eyes flashed behind his sunglasses. 'You summoned me?'

Lucy's eyes narrowed once her heart quit beating at an embarrassing speed. 'No' she said slowly hand on hip in a sign of annoyance. A pose she often adopted around her two nakamas. 'But I was about too...' she hesitated waiting for Cancer to explain. He shifted into an alert stance, not bothering to mention that Leo had summoned him to dress and prep Lucy for Her meeting with Natsu.

'What does Ebi require?' He walked to her side, directing Lucy to stand against the floor length mirror. Grabbing hand fulls of Lucy's golden locks and piling it atop her head. 'French twist?' He curled her hair just so, Lucy tilted her head admiring how it sharpened her features. 'Ringlets?'' He produced a curling tong from his belt. And curled a strand of hair experimentally. She fingered the delicate lock and sighed.

'Just a high ponytail will do, there's no point doing anything fancy, not if its going to be covered with a hat' Cancer looked at her in horror, his fingers twitching with the urge to style and mould.

'Ebi...I don't understand. Why would you wear a hat with a pretty dress...?' Cancer frantically tried to console himself, placing his tools back into his belt, his deft hands gently tugging and massaging Lucy's scalp. She sighed in bliss as he sat her in a chair beside the mirror, and teased her hair into a high pony tail running his fingers through her hair with glossy dry in conditioner that sparkled when it caught the light. Hat be damned Lucy would compromise. Lucy snorted.

'Do you remember the last time I summoned you to help me prep for a secret rendezvous with that idiot? Natsu invited me out to look for buried treasure. I got all dressed up, and I felt like such an idiot, when all he wanted was for me to summon Virgo to help him dig.' She chuckled recalling the memory with fondness, another lifetime.

'Er Ebi, you are an item now. Maybe he wanted to do something romantic..?' Cancer said worriedly. Lucy stood rifling through her wardrobe oblivious.

'That's not Natsu's style. I have the perfect outfit in mind' she pulled out a pair of blue overalls, Cancer moaned. After changing, Lucy entered the bathroom, adjusting her hard hat and admired it with satisfaction, it looked sturdy enough. A blue fin uncurling in the mirror made Lucy turn in surprise. 'Aquarius?' She demanded. The water Mage sat in a steaming bath, looking annoyed and slightly anxious. She stilled when she took in Lucy's appearance.

'Oh this is perfect' she grinned slowly, emitting an evil aura. She looked for all the world as if she was enjoying a relaxing soak. Her blue hair fell in a waterfall down her back. Her mermaids tail rested casually over the edge of the tub. Lucy resisted the urge to scowl, she always felt self conscious next to Aquarius, and the water Mage knew it. Aquarius rested her head against the ceramic lip of the bath, she laughed eyeing Lucy cooly. Her earlier anxiety disappearing. 'And just when I was starting to worry that you were growing up'

'What are you doing here Aquarius?' Lucy sighed leaning against the sink, knowing she would not get a straight answer from any of her Celestial spirits. Aquarius inspected her manicured fingernails carefully.

'It was important that I be here tonight.' The water spirit said cryptically, tapping her fingers along the ceramic bath in a hypnotic rhythm. 'We're..family Lucy, I just want you to know that...and I just want you to know that I'm proud of the woman you're becoming' Aquarius admitted a little stiffly as if it pained her, avoiding Lucy's probing gaze. Lucy felt oddly choked forgetting to ask what the hell the Celestial spirit was taking about.

'I never thought you considered yourself to be my family' Lucy's voice came out a little scratchy and they both shifted uncomfortably. Emotions did not come easily to them. Aquarius lifted her chin regally, lifting herself from the bath. Lucy watched in awe as a golden halo of light surrounded Aquarius. Water fell down her fin, like streaks of lightning. Her tail transformed into shapely pale legs with shorts. She came to stand in front of Lucy on wobbly feet. Wiggling blue polished toes, Lucy shook her head in amazement. She could never quite get used to Aquarius in human form.

'Iv not seen you in you're human form since-'

'Crocus?' Aquarius supplied helpfully, Lucy's throat constricted with emotion and she nodded, she hadn't forgotten the part Aquarius had played in separating her and Haku. Though she was only acting in Lucy's best interests, things had been strained between them since. Aquarius readjusted Lucy's sparkly bangs underneath her hard hat, stroking her face in a maternal gesture. She placed strong hands on Lucy's shoulders, forcing the blonde to look at her. Lucy did, fighting the flow of bitter words. Aquarius breathed sharply exhaling words in a rush, her grip on Lucy tightened. 'I told Haku to leave you out of the fight that day before you both attacked the eclipse gate, Anna was my first master, and I...I loved her, so very much. She died protecting Haku and I thought in his desire for revenge he would get you killed. Haku betrayed you because of me, because I convinced him that you would be better of without him.' Lucy looked at Aquarius in astonishment. Why tell her this now?

'I know' Lucy said quietly. Aquarius searched her face looking for a scrap of forgiveness in those warm, brown eyes. Lucy stared right back with a gentle calmness. How long had this tormented the water spirit? 'But why?' She implored Aquarius, 'why tell me all this now?'

'Because I want to tell you, that I don't regret it. I want to apologise because Hakus betrayal caused you pain. But we're here now in this moment because of it. You're pain has made you stronger, shaped you into a woman to be reckoned with. You stand on you're own feet and i am proud of that' Lucy looked at her completely bewildered.

'Have you been drinking the bath water?' The blonde eyed her celestial spirit sceptically. Aquarius growled, but surprisingly bit back a retort, her blue brows furrowed.

'This conversation will make sense later. You've found happiness within fairytail. Knowing what you do now, if you could change the events in crocus, would you?'

'No. I don't like that you and Haku plotted to keep me out of the picture and turned me over to my father. This is my fight against Zeref as much as anyone's. But although I lost Haku that day, I found Natsu. And I'd choose it again, just to meet him.'

'Then I can rest easy knowing you choose Natsu?' Aquarius asked quietly.

Lucy was thoughtful for a moment, considering the two boys in her life. 'I do, I love Haku, but I'm not in love with him. Natsu is...' You know you're in love, when you love and are loved in return...nothing can compare to the heat of it, Anna's words from the eclipse gate echoed in Lucy's mind. And Lucy privately agreed, It changes you, you feel the physical ache from it. When she was with Natsu she felt as if they could set the world on fire.

Aquarius nodded, no explanation was needed.

'Then you best be of' she half shoved Lucy towards the door. Lucy stuck her tongue out childishly.

'What is Natsu planning tonight?' she asked wearily. Aquarius, made a zipping motion with her lips but tossed her a black key. Lucy caught it on reflex. The Celestial Mages eyes widened.

'Is this a key to the-' Aquarius made a shushing motion pointing to Cancer still in Lucy's bedroom. They both knew the key was forbidden and would be destroyed after use.

'In case Natsu...botches things up tonight...it might be somewhere you'd like to show him'. Perplexed but knowing better than to ask any more questions, Lucy added the key to her belt and waved farewell to her spirits exiting her house. Aquarius and Cancer watched her go silently from the upstairs window. In a rare show of compassion, Aquarius allowed Cancer to wrap an arm around her.

'She's growing up' She whispered watching the blonde disappear from sight. She shook herself from the melancholy attitude stepping out of Cancers embrace.

'Ebi...you didn't tell her to change her outfit' the crab scorned softly. Shooting Aquarius a disapproving glare. The Water spirit smiled wickedly.

'You can't deny me all my fun' There conversation was interrupted by a tired exceed. Happy yawned on wobbly wings, his mouth and fur still stained with pasta sauce, he was ready to collapse in bed. He blinked tiredly at Aquarius as Cancer disappeared in a halo of golden light. He stared at her for a second noticing that she was standing on human feet, arms folded, a cunning glint in her eye.

'I preferred you as a fish' he muttered landing on the bed with a soft thud, he sprawled out onto the thick quilt his stomach full and aching. Aquarius advanced towards him.

'I haven't forgotten all those little remarks runt' she chuckled evilly. Happy opened his eyes in dawning panic realising they were well and truly alone. Lucy couldn't protect him. Water appeared like a geyser from Aquariuses open palm. 'Look at the state of you're fur, Happy...when was the last time you had a bath?'

Happy scowled, his wings materialising,fur standing on end. 'You wouldn't dare' he hissed.