Narrator's POV
"Even though Eisenwald has been defeated, that doesn't solve our problem with the dark guilds which currently numbers as much as the stars in the sky!" One of the members of the council grumbles, annoyed with the current status of the position.
"I agree, but it is a step into taking them down. We must find an efficient method of taking them down before it's too late," another member speaks reasonably.
"What I'd like to know, is how did Eisenwald get their hands on Lullaby in the first place. If memory serves right, the seal should've been powerful enough to contain it!" a grumpy old man exclaims. Frustration runs throughout his body as the situation before him unwraps into a pointless discussion.
"That doesn't matter now. We will seal Lullaby away better, and make sure it is never seen in the light of day." Discussions of the weapon flow throughout the room. A few already begin to lose arguments about solutions to the problem whilst others remain quiet.
"This doesn't matter any longer. In the end, no matter how annoying they come to be, Fairy Tail saved the Guild Master, and we didn't have to lose our positions," Siegrain says rather smugly. He feels as though this discussion will take a turn for the better if he plays his cards right. He admits that seeing the old fools waste the rest of theirs arguing about childishness matters, amuses him greatly. He remembers swiftly that a particular blond has not shown up in a bit of time. Even though she is a capable wizard, he can't help but worry.
"You're defending those nut-jobs?!" a member scowls at him. The angry atmosphere continues to rain down in the room. More arguments seethe in as Siegrain sighs. He figures it's time to end this before he gets a headache later on. Though he looks forward to tomorrow, he rather feels the need to relax in the peace than in some rowdy-like bar place, which is the council.
"If you're greatly concerned about their acts, why don't we punish them slightly. Miss Heartfilia hasn't shown up since her last mission, so why don't we lure her in a bit with another member whilst putting pressure on that member for the destruction," he explains calmly, in hopes of getting back from a war.
"And what exactly is this punishment?" a woman named Ultear asks sweetly. Her presence in the room is nothing more than silence. Listening to the nonsense, she flees to her mind in search of some peace. The mention of Heartfilia brings her back to the room. "I'm rather curious for what you have in mind," she says a little to innocently.
"Well, since the actions of Fairy Tail can't be ignored, why don't we set up a trial for property damage. We don't necessarily punish them, but give them a reminder to be rather careful with how they deal with missions. This however, is a setup to get Miss Heartfilia to meet with us. There is a particular mission that has been posted for some time, but it has gone ignored. I suggest she take the mission while we reprimand her guild for the destruction," Siegrain states. This idea is just to make sure that Lucy is fine, and meet up with her. Killing two birds with one stone. This certainly is a good plan.
The room silences itself as the members begin to ponder about the suggestion. Several factors would certainly play favorable for them, and the rest of Fiore. Mutters spread like wildfire before shutting up. "I believe that Siegrain has a good idea. I agree," Ultear declares in determination. Soon enough, every member agrees in unison with the idea, and sets up the trial and person for tomorrow. They all leave the room, and the two youngest members head toward a corridor to speak a few words.
"Those grumps will never get anything done if they argue like children," Siegrain mutters angrily. As much as he loves his position and title, it is sometimes too much with arguments.
"Y'know you can talk like a normal person than those farts," Ultear says teasingly. She is also at her wits end with the council, but she doesn't let that bother her too much to take up her thoughts.
"I guess. Excited to see Lucy again," he questions her with curiosity dancing in his jaded eyes.
"She betta' have a good reason for not showin' up for a few months, or she is really getting it this time. She got lucky 'cause of those damn injuries. 'Bout that, did you find someone to heal that ugly scar she got?" Ultear questions. As mad as she at her friend's recklessness, she is simply wants what is best for Lucy.
"Yep, told 'em to show up at our spot. Our little plan is coming along well. Soon enough this building up in flames." He smirks devilishly. The idea excites him greatly, that the authority and power, will crumble into the ground along with the members.
"Tell me about it. Sadly we have to wait an eternity for it." She pouts, but smiles swiftly. They glance at each other with smiles and happiness. "I just Lucy doesn't get caught up in the trouble. I really think of her as my lil' sis'." Ultear immerses herself in some pity.
"Don't worry, we will try our best to keep her away from this," Siegrain reassures his friend. They talk for a few more minutes before parting ways. Siegrain disappears into the large hallway as his real body resides in the Tower Of Heaven. The name Siegrain is a sham as well as the fact that he is twin of Jellal Fernandez. In fact, they're both the same person. The only person who knows about this, is Ultear. After all, they both have a mission to fill.
As he returns to his real body, he feels an overwhelming amount of magic and comfort return. He begins to think how much longer it will be before he can activate the R-system. After how far he comes, in the end it'll be worth it. For him, but mainly for his lord, who will create a new world. "Erza Scarlet, how long do you think your limited freedom will last? After all, I am the man who gave it to you. I own you, but not only that, you have some people to apologize for leaving them behind," he speaks aloud to no one in particular.
Erza's POV
After coming back from our adventure, we finally managed to relax. Well the boys have for the most part. I'm killing the daylights out of Lucy's soul with my questioning and requests. It's been so long that I'm leaping with joy with her here. I spent way too many nights wishing she was there with me, but I don't have to anymore.
Right now, we are in her room having a sleepover. She went to take a bath before we started our night of fun. I have the idea of asking her to become my roommate because we are close with each other, even though we haven't talked to each other in seven years. With this way, we can get closer, and get to know each other more. I might take her on a few S-Class quests, so it wouldn't be so boring. I love my guild, but sometimes it would be nice to have someone with me to go on missions with.
I am snapped out of my thoughts when Lucy comes out, still wearing her scarf. "Hey, can I ask you something?" I ask anxiously. She could easily reject my request, but I hope she accepts.
"What's up?," she responds. I can tell she is eager to know what I have in mind.
"Well since your room is basically right next to mine, why don't we move in together as roommates? You don't have to worry about rent. With all the jobs I've gone on, I'm covered," I explain to her. She looks slightly shocked, but that wears off quickly. She nods rapidly while crushing me in a hug. I remember when we used to have ridiculous pillow fights before bed. We completely forgot everything around, and how much we had fun.
"You pay ya' part of the rent while I pay mine. I'm actually quite rich," Lucy says confidently. I look at her suspiciously while urging her to continue. "Well, after I ran away, I started working for the council. I take on small jobs they give me, and I get to keep the rewards and money," she explains calmly. I am a bit shocked, but I smile at her. She is quick to learn how to survive without the need of others.
"Deal. So, who do you know on the council?" I question curiously. She takes a big breath before answering me. I have a feeling I won't like what I hear.
"Siegrain and Ultear. I have a feeling you know Siegrain, and honestly I don't trust them entirely because I have a feeling both of them are hiding something. The real reason I'm close to them is to find out if Siegrain has made any contact with Jellal," she responds heavily. My heart just leaps over a mountain. I have a particular dislike for Siegrain, mainly for his relation with Jellal. I ran into Siegrain a few times when I was in the council and each time, he threatened to keep the secret from getting out. "I hope you're not mad at me," Lucy mutters as she looks at the ground.
"I'm not mad at you Luce." I smile at her while she looks at me confusingly. "I could never be mad at you. You saved my life and became my best friend at such a time. You'll always be a special person to me for the rest of my life. Besides, we made a promise to be together for the rest of our lives." She pulls me into a hug. "We will go on more adventures together. With or without Fairy Tail, we stay together forever."
"Always. You're my best friend. I promise to you to make you smile," she says with a smile. I start to tear up slightly, "Also, what's with Luce?"
"Well it's my nickname for you. Don't you like it?" I pout because I trick her into subjecting my nickname for her. I laugh and her aura changes. She grabs a pillow and smacks it across my face. I look at her in disbelief before picking one of my own and repeat the same action. Soon enough we are in a huge pillow fight while laughing our souls out. I miss this feeling of joy. I am happy being in the guild, but I always felt alive with Lucy.
I always wore armor to protect myself from everyone, and to keep my feelings in lock. I slowly made friends and even a rival, and slowly my heart started to heal. But there was a crack that Lucy always managed to fill. A spot that was once broken by Jellal, was healed by Lucy. She changed over the years, but she is the same person I met in the forest that day. She may be a happy and strong person, but away from the spotlight, she is a girl that seeks love. I made a promise the day we left that I'd bring her love and happiness when we meet again.
"Luce, how come you hide your left arm?" I question her. It has been bothering me since the start of the mission.
"Well to hide a particularly huge scar I got," she responds.
"Well what happened? Maybe we can find a way to get rid of it somehow." I look at her with concern and curiosity.
"Short version. I spent six months looking for Celeste after running away. I found a guy that looked like he knew, but I was wrong. He was planning on hurting some innocent lives, so I followed him, and turned out that he was doin' some stuff about Zeref. I learned everything about Zeref to capture this dim-wit. I did, but almost died doin' so. He gave me a nasty scar," she explains. I scold her for her reckless actions, but I am glad that she is alive in the end.
"Now that is out of the way, shall we head for bed? Also are you coming for the match tomorrow?" I ask her.
"Hmm probs' not. I gotta go to the council tomorrow to report. That and I need to find somethin' to bribe two idiots," she sheepishly responds. We lay down on the bed while facing away from each other. I fell asleep fast and happily for the first time in years. Little did I know, I snuggle close to Lucy and end up hugging her.
Lucy's POV
After an awkward morning with Erza that I probably would never bring up ever again, I make my way to the guild. I decide I'm going to take a small solo mission in the next town, so I can get some stuff to bribe my two friends. It's early in the morning, but I need to do this now, so I don't have anyone on my tail for a small time being.
I walk in the guild to see Mira at the bar, cleaning some glasses and plates. I make my way over to her for a milkshake and greetings. I explain my small plan, but not the council part. She hands me my order, and I head up to the request board. There are a few monster and bandit missions near Magnolia, but not the one I'm looking for. That's when I notice lost 'n find mission in FallsWave Town. Perfect! It has the two gems I'm lookin' for. Just my day!
I snatch the mission, and take it over to Mira when I notice Master in front of me. He requests me to go to his office, and I agree. We head up the stairs and sit in the office. "Lucy, is it true you work for the council?" he inquires. I nod sheepishly while giving him an awkward smile. I don't know what he wants from me. "Relax child. I'm just wondering if you could help with keeping them off my back when the brats destroy too much."
I agree immediately because I do the same thing with destruction. I tell the Master of my plans, and he tells me to come back after the mission, so he can give me some papers for the council. I head out for the mission when I notice the peacefulness of the day. The sun is shining brightly, and the birds are chirping happily. I smile before making my way to the train. I'll never look at transportation with the same respect I have for nature. I board the train and take my seat. The train sets off, and my whole body goes limp. Luckily, it's just a short ride.
The mission was a good simple one as I predicted. The reward was a blood-red gem and a sapphire gem. Ultear loves red to death, and Siegrain's blue hair makes sense. As I make my way to the guild, I can't help but wonder who won between Erza and Natsu. He is powerful, but I don't think he is near Erza's level yet. She has years of experience, plus she is S-class.
I sigh slowly as I let the sun's warmth bathe me. I remember when Celeste taught me to eat the star's energy. It was hard at first, but when I felt connected to the stars itself, I managed to consume it. I smile at the memory while I notice how silent the area around the guild is. Did Erza beat up Natsu that fast? No way! He would've put up more of a fight than that!
I open the guild doors and notice the gloomy atmosphere. It feels like I just waltzed into a funeral except no one is dead. I slowly approach the Master in hopes of answers. I near the bar and see a small lizard with a scaled scarf, trapped under a glass. "Um..Master what happened?" I ask hesitantly. That's when I notice Erza isn't around anywhere.
"Well, we had the fight, but the council showed up. They said that Erza is under arrest for eleven counts of property damage for the Oshibana incident," he says in disappointment while taking out a letter. "This is a letter from the council. They said to give to you as soon as you came back, and to meet them." He hands me the letter. Eyeing it quickly, I take it swiftly and open it.
Dear Lucy Heartfilia,
We have sent this letter to address a few issues that have come up in your concern. If you are reading this letter then you must have heard that we have your guild mate, Erza Scarlet, under arrest for public property destruction. To ease your worries, the trial is a simple show for the rest of Fiore. An example for what would happen if anyone should break the rules.
The real reason for this letter is to speak about your previous mission and a new mission that we would be sending you. If you wish, you can take anyone with you. We hope you show soon as the matter is quite urgent.
Salutations
The Magic Council
I clench the paper tightly. I'm not an idiot to realize that they could've put the blame on me, but they go ahead and do it to Erza. This is their way of getting my attention and guaranteeing my appearance. I notice that everyone is staring at me with anticipation for an answer. I sigh before answering. "Well, the council wants me to talk to them for some stuff." I do not want to give out too much before I know what the council really wants.
Everyone goes back to mopping while Natsu is battering me questions. I ignore him and focus on the Master. He looks deep in thought before he looks at me. "Did the letter mention anything about Erza?" he asks worriedly. I nod before he sighs. "Well whatever it is, make sure she is fine. Go ahead meet up with those dunderheads. Also take the papers I asked you this morning." He pulls it out, and I take my leave.
The situation is too quiet, especially since Natsu's magical presence feels off. I glance at him once more when I realize it too late. I run out of the building at lightning speed, and I can hear everyone calling my name, but I pay no heed to them. Luckily the Fiore Department of the Council is close by, so I can easily run to it. I just hope I am not too late in catching up to Natsu. If that moron does anything idiotic, I will not be able to escape the lectures.
Erza's POV
After my little encounter with Siegrain, I am being led down to the courtroom. I can only imagine what Lucy will say about this. She already has it bad with them and now doesn't even begin to comprehend what'll happen. I sigh as the frog lady looks at me confusingly, but doesn't utter a single word. The fight between Natsu and I was starting to get interesting, if it hadn't been for the council. He has greatly improved over the years, but still needs a little more training to beat me. I wonder what it will be like when Lucy and I fight. It has been a while, and I have gotten stronger.
I'm brought out of my thoughts as the lady opens the door to the room. The courtroom is huge with all its marble walls and black and white-checkered tiles. The middle of the room is the stand for the defenders while ahead of it, is where the council resides. Three layers of wood and chairs with the top having one seat, second with a few, and the last with three. All council members are present, but in projection. I take a step forward to the stand in handcuffs. All of them are looking quite annoyed with the situation, except Siegrain, who looks amused.
"Erza Scarlet, please take the stand. This trial has just begun," an old man with a huge wizard hat says. He is sitting at the top of the three layers with black clothing. I follow his instructions, and the frog lady leaves. I stare at each one of them with no emotions as I begin to wait to hear my charges. I just hope Lucy does not get the blame for some this. I already know Master does, but I can only imagine Lucy's. "Erza Scarlet, you stand before the council to answer for the mishaps during the Oshibana incident. These damages include severe destruction to Oshibana station, Ryusika Gorge railway, and the complete destruction of the Clover conference hall. You have eleven counts of property damage against your name. Eyewitnesses recount a heavily armored female wizard."
As he finishes saying that, an explosion goes off behind me. Everyone waits for the smoke to clear to see Natsu, dressed up as me. I look at him bewildered, but I give up on trying to scold him now. The trial is a simple display for public actions, but this pyro-head just ruined that all together. If Lucy was not worse then, now does not compare. "I am the crazy lady in armor ya' old-timers have been lookin' for! If you have a problem with how my guild runs things then you can fight me!" Natsu yells out. He proceeds to next start destroying the courtroom with his magic while parading around as me.
"I am the all powerful Erza!" He yells once again, and destroys even more stuff. At this point, my pride flushes itself down the drain. As he is about to destroy another piece of the room, a fist hits his head, and he's out cold. I look to see Lucy just as embarrassed and annoyed as I am with Natsu's behavior.
"Ah, Miss Lucy. I see you've finally come to join us," the old man from before says. She growls in a very menacing tone, but doesn't say anything. "You can calm down. We haven't done anything bad to either of your friends. However, the poser has destroyed the courtroom, who is from your guild," he says rather calmly. Lucy looks even angrier than before, but I touch her arm, and she calms down slightly to talk.
"I'll pay for the damage with my money. Just let 'em go. Why didn't ya' put the charges on me?" she asks.
"You're not dumb as you come off. It's true we could've, but we needed you to come soon, so this was the only simple solution." Lucy looks like she is about to break something her before I hold her hand. She looks at confused before sighing heavily. I give her a small smile, and she smiles herself. She looks back the council for some answers. "We will release Miss Scarlet and your friend from prison as soon as you are done with your debriefing," he states. Lucy nods as a few guards come to take Natsu and I away. Lucy gives me one of her smiles as a reassurance that nothing bad will happen. I give her a small smile in return.
Lucy's POV
After they take my friends away, I'm greeted by two others, who show me to a room. I follow them in silence while not having full attention to what is going on. I just hope my friends will be fine, though Natsu might not. We enter a room, and I take my seat in a chair while a guy with a funny looking bandanna looks at me. The room is small and secluded with just bare walls and floors. As a single light is lit up, we start the debriefing. I tell him everything I know and after what it feels like hours, I am let go.
I raced out of the room to be greeted by Siegrain and Ultear. They have been my good friends for the past two years, but I don't trust them entirely. They look shady and always seem to think about something. They hate the council as much as I do, but don't complain about it. They smile at me, and I take out my bag to hand them the gems. They take it while stars in their eyes. Ultear tackles me in a hug while Siegrain places a hand on my shoulder. "Thank you for the gift. We also have one to give you too," he tells me.
I follow them out the building to notice how late it is. It really did take hours, which sucks. They lead me to our spot near the department when I notice a guy with green hair waving at us. The night sky is peaceful as a part of the moon is shining. The grass is soft and the wind is slowly swaying. "Who're you?" I question him. We get closer to him for his response.
"Names Ken. Two of yer' pals asked me to heal a nasty scar ya' got," he says wackily. He is quite laid back for a guy, who claims he can heal my scar. He soon explains that a specific type of liquid he has reverses time on a person's body from about anytime the caster deems worthy. The liquid is called Nora-Ve-Reversal, and it is extremely rare to find and obtain. I agree to drinking it, and tell him to reverse my body back to about seven months ago. Luckily, it doesn't affect the memory or else we would be in a pickle.
I drink the funny looking green liquid. It tastes and smells horrible, but push it aside and drink a small portion as he casts the spell. My body grows blue before I notice it stops. I get rid of the cloth that is hiding the scar, to notice it's completely gone. I smile and leap around in joy. Everyone looks at me happily, and I thank and shake Ken's hand to heaven. We talk for a few minutes before we part ways. "Ya' guys are legit' the best!" I exclaim to them in smiles.
"Don't mention it. What are friends for." I give both of them a big hug as we make our way to the cells. I hope Natsu and Erza have fared well. Siegrain directs a guard to me and the cell. I walk with the guard, and I bid farewell to Siegrain and Ultear as they disappear. Those guys are the best, but sadly I don't trust them. I walk with guard to the cell as I notice Natsu with a big lump on his head, and Erza looking at me with a small smile. The guard opens the cell, and they get out. I thank the woman, as I leave with my friends.
We make it outside, and Natsu runs at full speed towards Magnolia. I giggle at his childish behavior, and Erza smiles at me. "How was prison?" I ask teasingly with a goofy smile. She glares at me and starts to walk away. "Aw c'mon! Ya' know I was kiddin'. Come back!" I run after her and tackle her to the ground. I take a good look at her. Her beautiful scarlet hair and brown eyes. Small pink lips and gorgeous jawline. She looks like a goddess that men would chase after her. The moonlight shines on her features, and I notice a small blush. "You shouldn't walk away from people, who are talking to you," I tell her.
I get off her, and lend her a hand up. She takes it and stands. "You shouldn't tackle people to ground," she replies angrily. I give her my toothy grins and take her hand. She looks at me lovingly as I take her hand to Magnolia. This reminds me of when I used to do that to her when we were kids. She would never complain about it, and it seems she still doesn't. She looks so beautiful, that I am jealous of a guy like Jellal, ditches her. When I see him, I'll make sure to give him a bashing for making Erza cry. I never want to see her cry ever again.
After a nice sleep, Erza and I are at the guild. She is eating breakfast while I eat the sunlight that is coming from the window. Nobody looks at me funny because they know why I'm doing that. "So, what did you do with the council yesterday?" Erza asks me. I stop eating the sunlight and answer her. I tell her about the mission and the papers I dropped off. "Are you taking me with you?" she asks deviously. I smile and nod at her.
I get up to talk to Master about my new mission. He is sitting on the bar deep in thought before he opens his eyes to me. "Ah Lucy, what do you want?" he asks.
"Well, the fart-heads gave me a new mission. Somethin' 'bout Galuna Island. I just wanted to tell ya' that Erza and I might go on it together," I respond. His jaw slightly drops.
"Lucy, you do realize that is an S-class mission," he asks in disbelief.
"Nope. This is the first I'm hearin' of it. If they think I can handle it then I probs' can." I smile at him, and he calms down. I go back to sitting next to Erza as I notice Natsu, spitting out fire from his mouth. He runs around the hall before lighting up his fists and challenging Erza to finish their fight. I see the annoyance written on her face and declines. Natsu being the persistent brat he is, still didn't give in. Erza gets up and punches him accurately in the gut. He drops to the floor clutching his stomach as everyone and I laugh at him.
"You still have ways to go Natsu," she tells him before facing me. "Since it has been a while since we fought, let's duke it out," she boldly declares. Everyone makes a ghostly silence as I smile at her. I get up and crack my knuckles. I am ready to charge at her when I start to feel sleepy. I notice everyone drop to the floor, and my vision blurs. The last thing I see is a man with a cloak and covered face. He also smells familiar.
"Jellal," I mutter out before I pass out. He is not the same Jellal as the one Erza spoke about, but the one I met years ago.
Makarov's POV
Lucy muttered something out before passing out, but I could not get what. Mystogan slowly walks up to the request board, but stops halfway to look at Lucy. I still don't say anything as he kneels down and picks Lucy up in his arms. He stops at the board and picks a mission before coming up to me. "I'll return," he says in a serious tone.
"Wait, why do you have Lucy with you, and does she know what you look like?" I ask frantically. It's not like him to do something spontaneous, let alone take a member away like this.
"Lucy and I are best friends. It's been a while since I've last seen her, so I figure we could catch up. And yes, she knows what I look like. I hope she can keep it a secret," he says calmly. Both my children continue to surprise me. I know Lucy knows a lot of people, but Mystogan, is out of the question.
"Make sure to bring her back soon. She has some people who will get worried for her, especially Erza. And lift the sleeping spell before you leave," I tell him seriously. I can keep the majority of the guild under calm about Lucy's whereabouts, but Erza is a whole different question. Though ever since Lucy joined, Erza has been more lively than usual. Top that with having to challenge someone, which she hasn't done since Mirajane.
Mystogen nods. He fixes how he carries Lucy before walking out, counting down to one to lift the spell. He walks out and closes the door behind him. Everyone slowly wakes up and looks around, cursing Mystogan for putting them to sleep. Erza looks around frantically before coming to me. "Master have you seen Lucy?" she asks impatiently. That is when everyone else notices Lucy's disappearance.
"Mystogen took Lucy with him to catch up. He says they're best friends, and haven't seen each other in years," I reply slowly. Erza looks astonished from several facts I can guess while everyone is the same.
"Does she know who he is, if so, does she know what he looks like?" Erza asks slightly angry with everything. I feel bad for Lucy when she returns.
"From what he told me, she does and hopes she keeps it a secret. Like he said, they know each other." I close my eyes as I feel Erza's anger starting to radiate in several directions. No one dares to speak or go near her as she walks back to her seat while staring at the guild doors. Everyone starts talking about Lucy's connection when a voice calls out.
"Looks like the old man and I aren't the only ones who know what Mystogen looks like," a demanding voice calls from above. I didn't need to look up to know Laxus, my grandson, is in the guild. Though it is shocking he is, considering he is rarely around and always on mission. Everyone nears the bar to get a look at him and talk.
"Laxus you're here. You're never around!" Elfman shouts to him. Everyone agrees and voice their own opinions.
"Mystogan's just shy. Learn to respect his privacy," Laxus comments. That's when Natsu wakes up to challenge him. Gray tries to convince Natsu to stop, but fails. "In your dreams! You can't even beat the red-head, why bother with me." Laxus smirks deviously.
"What are you trying to say?" Erza asks threateningly. Once again, everyone backs away from her.
"I'm saying I'm the most powerful wizard in the guild," he says with some dramatic flare. Natsu challenges him again to which Laxus tells him to come up. Natsu starts running and almost reaches the stairs when I use my magic to enlarge my left arm to bash him in place.
"Natsu, you know you're not allowed on the second floor. Not yet anyways," I tell him while still keeping him place. He groans, but ignores it.
"The strongest one in the guild isn't some chick or hooded weirdo. If you want to know who it is then you're looking at him!" Laxus yells out. All of Erza's team glares at him while everyone remains silent. Laxus then uses his magic and is gone from the guild. I sigh as I release Natsu. I look at Erza, who goes back to what she was doing before Laxus showed up.
Lucy's POV
I wake up slowly to a grassy plain and the afternoon sky. I straight up jump to my fight before looking around to see a familiar blue-headed person looking at me with a small smile. "Jellal?" I ask. I hope it is the one I know, or else some stuff is going down.
"Lucy, it's been a while. To answer your question, I am Jellal," he smiles greatly at me. I have always admired his smiles since we were kids, and I think he is the one.
"How do I know you're the Jellal I met years ago?" I ask seriously. I would hate to be wrong about who he is.
"Well, I carry around my staff, and I know for a fact you hate it when I talk about what happened in Sherry Town," he says teasingly. I look at him bewildered before I hug him tightly.
"Yer' a dumb fool. I missed you." I let a few tears slip as he hugs me tighter. I'll admit, over the years, he has changed. His voice is much deeper, the appearance of a young man, and he has grown taller and powerful.
"How have you been? Did you find Celeste?" he asks with concern.
"Fine and alive for the most part, but Celeste is still cold."
"Don't worry I'm sure you'll find her. I mean you have my help now."
"You really mean it!"
"Yes, besides we are friends. Speaking of which, how has Wendy been?"
"Well, I haven't seen her since we dropped her off at CaitShelter." I look down at the ground sadly. I miss her with all my heart. Leaving her behind, was just as tough when I left Erza behind. Wendy is my little sister that I could always dream off.
"I'm sure she is fine. Now c'mon tell me what have you been up to in these few years. Last time you said you wanted to find out more about the Heartfilias'."
"I did. When I met Layla Heartfilia, we looked so alike that we could've been sisters! I still have no idea about that or why Celeste gave me that name, but something about Layla smelled familiar."
"Did you know anyone while you were with Celeste?"
"The only people I ever really knew before Celeste, were my birth parents, but they have gone for so long that I gave searching for them. Besides that, I don't really remember what they look like, so even if I were to start searching, I'd be lost."
"Quite a troublesome situation you've found yourself in. No worries. Why don't we forget about the names and focus on finding your dragon and Wendy's."
"Yep, yer' right. So, why wear a hood around all the time?"
"Well, you know how I look similar to a councilman."
"True, it'd be awkward explaining that. So, are you super powerful now? I mean caste a sleeping spell that put everyone to sleep!"
"Powerful? I guess. I mean Master gave me the S-rank position."
"You make it sound like it's nothin'. I can't tell if yer' the dummy or I am."
"It's just powers and a title, Lucy. You better than anyone should know that. I mean you're the one, who beat up several people, to just get that point across."
"Why did you have to be smart?"
"It's just a gift. Now tell, what else have you been up to?"
"Well I work for the council, ran away from the Heartfilia mansion, and joined Fairy Tail. Also speaking of which, don't tell anyone my last name yet. I trust Fairy Tail, but I need to stay away from Jude as much as possible. The only person who knows my last name is Erza, but I think she is gonna be mad at both of us for keeping our connection a secret."
"You have my word. As long as you keep mine." I nod. We spent hours catching up on practically anything. It really felt like we were talking like two people who have known each other for years when in reality, we haven't seen each other for ages. Soon nights starts to fall. "I believe we should get going. I have a job to complete, and you have people waiting up for you at home or the guild," he says seriously.
I sigh. "Yeah, yer' right. We should go on a mission together soon. It'll be like ol' times."
"Indeed we will. I'll keep more in contact with the guild now that you're here. I know you have friends around, but also realize I am one too."
"Oh, I already do pal. You have to realize that!" We laugh and then hug each other one last time before we part. He disappears into the distance I walk back into Magnolia. It has been awhile since I have stayed up this late to see the stars. As much as this proves to be a good distraction, I have to remember that a particular raging bull might kill me when I step inside the room. I just hope she did not blow up the guild or anyone since then. She is really protective when it comes to me. I love her, but it is too much, considering I can handle myself fine.
I slowly step inside into Fairy Hills and head up to the second floor. I walk anxiously down the hallway to my room. Each footstep intensifies every second in the silence. I feel like I'm walking towards my death. I cautiously grip the key as I stand in front of the door. I smell Erza inside with Natsu, which is odd. I slowly put the key to the lock and open it. Erie silence. It's something out of a horror film. I walk inside and close the door behind me.
I punch myself to get my head straight or else I'd be a walking robot. It's not like the world is going to end, so I calm myself down and walk into the living room. I see Natsu unconscious on the ground alongside a furious Erza. I stare directly at Erza with my own serious glance before I see her sigh. "Natsu broke into the apartment, so I knocked him out," she says calmly. I stare at her crazily before sighing myself.
"Ya' might as well just throw him out the window. He'll gain some sense to walk back home," I tell her. She does what I ask and throws him out the window. I hear a groan coming from before I smell him walking away. He is quick to recover, which evidently doesn't shock me. "So are you gonna kill me with yer' stares, or ya' gonna talk."
"That depends. Are you going to tell me how you know him?"
"Three months after we said goodbye, I ran into him and we traveled for a while. After some time we parted ways before I stayed at the mansion."
"I'm guessing you're not going to tell me what he looks like."
"A promise is a promise, Erza. He promised me he won't tell anyone my last name."
"Look, I was mad at you. But, I see it completely unnecessary. I was just worried." She looks at me sadly before changing into some normal clothing and sitting on the couch. "When you first left, it really hurt. Over time, it got better and I started healing. But there were times where I needed you the most, and you were never there. That's when I promised myself that when I see you again, I'd never let you go," she says as if she was ready to cry.
I wrap her in a hug and let her cry on me. "I'm sorry. I never intended to leave you alone. I just wanted what was best. I'm sorry," I say. I let her cry before I got up and reached out my hand for her. I give her a small smile as she looks at me with crystal eyes. She takes it, and I take her to the bedroom. "I'll never leave you again. I promise," I tell her as I let her sit on the bed. She finally smiles, and I decide to tickle her stomach. She bursts out in a fit of laughter as she pleads for me to stop. And that's what we spent the night doing before we went to sleep.
I wake up first to notice Erza still sleeping, and my arms wrapped around her. I notice her snuggle closer to me as I feel my cheeks heat up. She looks so peaceful and happy. I cannot believe I made her cry, but I need to find a way to make it up to her. I slowly and carefully get out of bed without her waking up and walk into the living room.
I notice Natsu and Happy sitting on the couch, greeting me. I look at them crazily before they explain a job for the three of us. I could probably use the reward money to buy Erza something to make it up to her. I agree, and they tell me to meet them at the outskirts of Magnolia. They leave, and I get ready. I write Erza a note, so she will know where I will be. I place it on the nightstand as her sleeping face looks at me. I notice that she usually has her right eye slightly covered with her bangs.
I meet the boys at the outskirts, and they tell me that we are walking to Hargeon. I ask about the mission, and they say that we are taking a boat to Galuna Island. Apparently the reward is seven million jewels, and they are offering a gate key. I shut out after the gate key and started running towards Hargeon. The other day it took us a long time to reach Magnolia because we hid from the council. We reach Hargeon in about the next hour and near the port. As much as Natsu and I hate taking the boat, it is better than swimming. The name Galuna sounds familiar, but at the time I didn't focus too much on it.
Natsu and I started asking people to take us there, but only ended up with them telling us how cursed the island is. We split up further and ask around more. I keep asking around, but no avail. Natsu calls out to me, and I run over to him with a knocked out Gray in his hand. "I found someone that's gonna take us there," Natsu comments happily.
"That's uh great. Why do you have Gray, passed out in your arms?" I ask intently.
"Ice princess was insulting, so I decided to knock him out. Even though I hate him, he might be able to help us with the quest." Natsu for the first time ever, says something logical. I look at him crazily before smiling. The guy who is willing to give us a ride, tells us to hop aboard on his tiny boat. On the first step, both Natsu and I get sick, but we hold out enough to get stable. Natsu ties up Gray with some ropes from a bag. The man starts paddling the boat, and both Natsu and I fall numb.
I groaned in pain and wished Erza were here. I did not want to leave her behind, but I needed to make it up to her somehow. Plus we have a job from the council we are supposed to go on, but I can't remember what the mission is. After hours, the sun fell and the moon rose. Through my distorted vision, I look at the sky to notice some sort of light coming from ahead. That's when I hear Gray groaning. I face him to be met with a scowl. "You three idiots are toast when we get back to the guild," he tells me.
"Whaddya'..mean?" I ask sickly. Getting off this damn boat should be first priority then the mission.
"Are you that dumb? Natsu stole the S-class for Galuna Island." I shot up to come face to face with him. I completely forgot my motion sickness.
"Natsu stole what?!"
"Ya' heard me. Master ordered me to bring you three back, but Natsu knocked me out when the boat guy said he'd offer a lift to Galuna."
"Master is gonna kill Natsu and Happy. Master already knows I would be going on this quest because of the council, but I'm pretty sure Erza is gonna murder me when she finds out I didn't go on it without her."
"Since did you work for the council!" Gray exclaims in my face. Instantly I felt sick and dropped to the side of the boat. I hear him commenting about the motion sickness, but Happy explains to him how I work for the council. I'm guessing Natsu told Happy. "Hey listen pal, this is all your fault too! You shouldn't have let us board,"Gray tells the boat guy.
"The name's Bobo. If you should know, I used to be a citizen of Galuna Island," Bobo says. I look at him slightly before going back to stare at the sea. I listen intently to what he says next. "I had to flee. I couldn't take it anymore. I should warn you, anyone who steps foot on the island falls under the curse."He then shows us his arm, and I barely see it. The arm is wooden-like with a purple color and claw-like fingers. "Only way to get rid of it, is to get rid of the demonic curse." We comment on it before he tells us we are near.
The light I saw before, was glowing on top of Galuna Island. I try to stand up to get a better view, but ultimately fail. I went back to question Bobo, but he completely disappeared. We get frantic before I look on ahead again. I hear a lot of water coming towards, but mind it off as the ocean. "Uh Lucy!" Gray exclaims. I look behind him to see a massive wave behind us. We all try to scramble for safety, but it is too late as it hit. We dove head first into water, and I feel like I'm going to lose my senses. It doesn't take long until I black out.
Sunlight hits my face as my vision clears. I slowly get up, careful to fall back. I get a better grip on my legs and my vision is better. I notice that I am on the sand with several trees surrounding me. After the crash, we might've ended up on the shore. I'm glad that we survived, but now the question remains, how do we save the people. Erza will show up soon when Master tells her about Natsu's little plan.
I sigh and start walking. I smell the others and walk faster to find them unconscious and on the sand. I shake them slightly, and they stir up. It takes them a few minutes before they're fully aware of what is going on. "Alright! Let's go explorin'!" Natsu exclaims. We didn't even start the mission, and he already forgot the fact we are on one.
"Natsu, why'd ya' lie 'bout bringin' me on an S-class quest?" I inquire while glare at him. He gulps nervously before apologizing immensely as well as Happy. "Look, you boys are lucky that I'm cleared for this quest, or else we are in deep trouble. Now since you decided to lie, it's only fair you follow my instructions. Am I clear?" They nod before leaping to find something.
"Not so fast," Gray says. We all look at him to continue. "Yer' takin' me with y'all. Even though Lucy might not get murdered by Master, it wouldn't be fair y'all became S-class before me," he states. We all agree for him to join before we go searching for the only village on this island according to Happy. I sigh before engulfing myself in my thoughts. We might be able to pull this off, but I feel sorry for the boys. Master might not kill or punish me, but I got a demon best friend who might. I just hope she does it after we complete this quest. I wonder what happened to Bobo, and why do people this island so badly?
A bit of filler I know, but it was necessary to get some characterization out of the way. Things will start to pick up after the arc.
The next two arcs after Galuna will be important, not because they're directly related to our main characters, but to the plot in general. Also when the adult themes might start kicking in, so warning just ahead of time.