The journey back to the guild hall seemed to take forever. I could hear Natsu and Gray arguing in the distance behind me. Gray was telling Natsu there was a good reason for what I'd done. But, was there? I could tell she was in pain and it was almost her time, but did I have to end it? I'd heard it strengthened the magic of a Dragon Slayer, but Natsu was just as strong as the third generation Dragon Slayers which she was now apart of.
It seemed like years had passed, but we finally reached Magnolia. The entire journey I walked by myself. Gray had tried to converse with me, but after time even he knew it was useless. I could feel the townspeople staring at me. Or maybe they were staring at my strange company. Either way, we were being watched. That's when a golden bird landed on my shoulder. A canary. The sight of the bird alone made me feel better. As if it knew it was meant to make me smile it took flight moments after I'd smiled directly at the bird. "Thank you," I whispered into the air.
Gray, Natsu, and I entered the Guild Hall where I once took residence. The entire guild looked our way. I waited for their reaction. Would it be anger? Surprise? I did not expect them to be cheerful about my returning. Juvia ran directly at me and embraced me. "Where have you been?" she questioned with tears rolling down her face.
I stood in shock of the reaction before me. I looked at Gray as if asking him if she knew about his love for her. He nodded, "Even then she declared you family and demanded we search for you." I could tell he was glad that Juvia had accepted me, rather then declaring me an enemy.
A small, old man approached the group that surrounded me. "Master Makarov, there is something I need to tell you." It was time he knew.
"I already know." He grinned, "I knew you'd looked familiar the second you entered the guild. Kira James, placed 7th out of the 10 wizard saints, also a member of the Magic Council. A hidden Dragon Slayer."
It was relief to know that he knew, but I froze at the Dragon slayer part. How did he know that? "L-Laxus..." my voice trembled. When I had bumped into him? I knew that Dragon Slayers could tell when another of their kind was around, but that was ridiculous!
"Welcome back to the Guild." Master Makarov continued, "The Council sent you a letter notifying you of a house in town they purchased for you." he handed me the letter and Juvia released me from her almost neverending hug.