I'm sorry the last chapter and this chapter are so short. I wanted to write more but I didn't want it to drag on :/

Hope you guys like this chapter :)

Chapter 6

A Promise

Levy P.O.V

"Come on, Shrimp, you need to eat," Gajeel says, waving a plate of food on front of me. I glare are him and he back down, slumping back in his seat. I go back to gazing at the door of the dining hall, hoping to finally see Lucy.

She's been in her room for five days, ever since it was announced her mother, Queen Layla, was dead. Lucy had been unconscious for two of those five days. The other three she spent in bed, not speaking to anyone and barley eating. I was beginning to worry about her health, both mental and physical. Gajeel was worrying too, though he would never show it. He liked Lucy, he just didn't want anyone to know. I glance up at the renowned Iron Dragon, taking in his red eyes and black mane of hair. He stares off into the distance, lost in thought.

The click of the door makes me wip round. I sigh when Natsu Dragneel walks in, his hair a mess of pink tufts. He smiles slightly at us, though it doesn't reach his eyes. Gajeel nods, his eyes scanning the young Dragneel. He seems concerned about the younger mans well being, which startles me. Gajeel never seems to show concern for anyone. He only even showed concern that one time when a wild horse almost killed me. He protected me and made sure I was safe, almost getting himself killed in the process. Whatever his background, I know he'll always be loyal.

"You okay, Pinky?" said man asks Natsu. All the gets is a grunt in reply as the addressed boy flops onto a seat and looks at me questioningly. I know what he's asking and shake my head. I haven't seen Lucy anymore than he has.

We are joined shortly by Gray, Ultear and Lyon. Gray looks almost as bad as Natsu. I can understand. Both where present when the Queen died and I don't think will ever go away. Ultear looks like she's holding back tears and Lyon looks more aloof than normal, his face devoid of all emotion. We sit in silence until the door opening once again causes all to look around and gape.

Lucy stand in the doorway, her arm around Wendy Dragneel.

Natsu P.O.V

Lucy isn't doing well, I can tell that just from her appearance She is dressed in a simply designed powder blue gown, he blonde lock loose and free. Under her eyes are dark circles, even worse than my own, which stand out like bruises against her pale skin. No hint of colour graces her cheeks and her lips are cracked from her biting them. I feel a stab in my chest as I survey her.

Wendy leads her over to the now silent table, helping her into her seat and telling her to wait there while she gets food. She skips over to the food table while Lucy stares at her lap, seeming so out of place in the big room. I act on instinct and move to sit beside her, placing my hand on her shoulder. She jumps and looks up at me, her once bright brown eyes flat and staring. I smile brightly at her and she blinks back at me.

"Hey, Luce, we missed you," I say. Her eyes flicker and I see a small hint of colour on her cheeks. I grin as a smile spreads on her lips.

"Hey, Natsu," she croaks. Obviously she hasn't talked in a while. Not since she cried herself to unconsciousness that day.

"Here you go, Lucy," Wendy chirps, placing a plate stacked with food in front of said girl. Lucy stares at it for just a moment before digging in. I grin and grab my plate, finishing my pancakes and bacon quickly. Once we're both done I smile at her again. "Want to go for a walk?" I feel a slight sinking sensation when she declines.

"I can't," she says, suddenly serious. "I have to see my Father. There's is something I need to do and I might need all of your help." She turns so she is looking at the group as a whole.

We all stare at her, confused. Not a day ago she was in bed, refusing to talk to all of us, and now she wants her help. I shake my head and grin at her, noting the other do the same.

"Whatever you need Lucy, we will be there," I state, grinning from ear to ear.

"No question's asked," Gray chimes in.

"We will always be there for you," Levy says too, smiling at her best friend. The others nod and smile.

"Good," Lucy says, smiling. "Because this could be a matter of life and death."

What?!

Normal P.O.V

Dark mist swirls out of the cave, caressing the girls skirts. She shivers, pulling her cloak tighter around her shoulders. The ploughs on, stepping into the cave, her wide eyes scanning the darkness.

"Well? What news?" a deep, rumbling voice says from the back of the cave. The girl squeaks and steps back.

"Hush, Acnologia," another voice chimes in, this one softer and younger. "Patience my pet. Well, girl?"

"The Queen's death has hit Lucy horribly," she reply, taking a deep breathe. "She has not left her room in days."

"And the King?"

"He is beginning to weaken, soon you magic will take effect," the girl breathlessly says, clutching at her hands. "Do we need to harm Lucy?" A roar fills the cave, causing her to tremble in fear.

"Is this not what you wanted?" the rough voice screams. "The Princess out of the way? You must be careful girl or you'll end up like your beloved Queen. Dead as a door nail." Manic laughter fills the small space and the girl whimpers in terror.

"Go now!" the other voice says. "And remember your place!"

The girl bolts from the cave, manic laughter following her like a plague. She had to do better. She's get what she wanted in the end. Right?

Well how was that? Who is the mystery girl? Why does she want Lucy gone?

Find out next time :) And let me know by reviewing or just message me :)