Hello, hello! I am indeed alive. I did promise, if I do recall correctly, that I wouldn't abandon a story. I did state that if life got really hectic (it did) that I may take a hiatus. Moving across the country, starting a new job, and working 90 hours/week excuses me, I think. I also took the time to re-read all 50-ish chapters to make sure I was in the right frame of mind when I began working. I quickly realized how many typos and minor errors there are, even with me reading it a million times each (not really). So, do not fret, I will eventually be editing my earlier chapters, especially for the different spellings of character names and unifying the loose ends. I cringed when I saw all the work I have cut out for me! Maybe vomited in my mouth a little, too.

Anyhow, as much as I dislike the newest FT arc (except for the Bisca-Alzack bit), I am continuing to write this, as it's now diverged from the old arcs. Shit's about to get real, to put it lightly. I hope you enjoy, for those of you-any of you-who are still willing to continue reading. I am truly sorry for the long delay between updating, and hope to not have to do that again. Writing is the only thing that keeps me sane. Thank you.

Disclaimer: Don't own characters.

~OoOoO~

"Waaah?" Lucy breathed, taking a moment to comprehend what the man had shared with her.

He maintained her gaze, his one of knowing as he slowly rose from the ground, the corners of his mouth slightly upturned. The tall young man next to him was doing nearly nothing to hide his own amusement.

"I knew it," Natsu muttered under his breath.

"Knew what?" Adie narrowed her eyes from between Lucy and Natsu. Her sudden appearance caused Lucy to jump.

"I hate when you do that!" Lucy squealed.

Natsu pursed his lips, tapping his chin. "If it took you all that time to learn how to fight, then I am stronger."

"Hmph," Adie grunted, sending him an irritated look, "I didn't say I learned overnight. Give anyone almost seven decades then they should have some skill." The mayor chuckled as Natsu smirked in triumph. Adie crossed her arms over her chest, "Besides, wasn't much else to do when Barsky was taking all the business, and I'm not much good with magic."

Lucy was still in shock by what had been disclosed to her. She watched Adie and Natsu continue to argue, the latter mostly pointing out how he was superior in skill while Adie's facial expression became more defiant. Soon, Natsu was the frustrated one as Adie replaced her annoyance with one of disinterest. The change in attitude bothered Natsu, as he desired the pale-haired woman's agreement with his argument, no matter how unfounded it may be. The dragon slayer grew red in the face, his arms being thrown around in frustration as Adie fed off of what irritated him the most: not recognizing his strength. It was in that moment that Lucy had an epiphany: no good skill came naturally. She glanced at all of her friends, watching them prepare for what may be the last fight of their lives. Each of them had made sacrifices to become stronger.

No one grows strong over night, Lucy, she told herself. It takes time. Alot of time. More time than she had given herself.

That realization washed over her, giving her the comfort she had craved for so long. All this time she had been wishing to become stronger. All this time she had been wishing to becoming stronger more quickly. She had never wanted something so much as she had this past year. And, she realized, it was all due to her desire to show Natsu that she was capable. While she spent that time wallowing, others were doing their best to grow.

"It takes work," Lucy nodded, speaking more to herself. Had you spent less time being so critical...she silently chimed in.

The mayor raised an eyebrow as Adie glanced over his armor, adjusting it where she felt it was needed. Lucy had an inkling that it was more to avoid Natsu's frustrated rumblings and desire to be right in his argument.

"I thought you weren't going to make it," the pale-haired mage spoke in a low voice to the thick man.

The mayor glanced around at the gathering of mages, his face stoic. "You doubted us?"

"No," Adie admitted. "I doubted myself." Her eyes briefly flickered toward Lucy.

"We all have commitment, Adassandra," he glanced over his breast plate, smiling at the young man next to him. The boy stared ahead, his expression unreadable as Natsu waved his hands in front of the youth's face in an attempt to make him blink or react.

"Hey, what are you guys here for? Are you ignoring me?" Natsu began waving more furiously when he realized he was making no progress. Lucy smacked her forehead with the palm of her hand in frustration at his immaturity. She noticed that Erza had left their side. Her eyes trailed up to the rocky bluffs, noticing a few freckling glints in the sunlight. She silently convinced herself that there were diamonds buried in those barren crags.

"How many of you are there?" she whispered in awe as her eyes fell over the unfamiliar faces behind him—the people she had seen once before, on the streets of Wisteria. When they were nothing but villagers with unknown trades.

"Eight hundred strong," the mayor answered, following her gaze as his voice filled with pride.

"That many?"

"As many as it takes," he admitted. "You need man—and woman—power. And any help will be of benefit in these bleak times."

"He's right, Luce," Natsu agreed, glowering at the young man in defeat.

"Remo?" the mayor asked. "Can you ask Miss Erza if she is ready to give the orders."

"Yes, father!" the boy nodded, quickly striding away, ignoring Natsu—much to the dragon slayer's disdain.

"Your son! No!" Lucy paled. "You can't—he's so young—"

"You insult their pride, Lucy," Adie's voice was low as she waved her hand, indicating the men and women who had traveled to take part in history.

"I-I—" Lucy stuttered, suddenly feeling ashamed.

"Miss Heartfilia," the mayor raised his hand soothingly, looking over the chaos before them, and nodding his head in indication. "Every man and woman is here because they choose to—because they have something to fight for. If they do not take a stand now, what will we have to stand for when it's all over? When it's too late?"

Lucy chewed her lip as Natsu's brow knit in contemplation. Her eyes darted over Adie and her comrades, who were faithfully awaiting Erza's orders and preparing for whatever fate awaited them. The man's words washed over her, renewing her hope and faith.

"You are right," she agreed, sheepishly. "I have no right to question your values. I only thank you for your sacrifice." She bowed and clasped his hands in appreciation, squeezing briefly.

He smiled proudly, his eyes flickering toward the midday sun. He bowed curtly once again, his thick fingers squeezing Lucy's hand in return. "You are wise beyond your years. We will be right here, beside you. But, as of now, I must see to my people."

Lucy nodded her understanding, still shocked by the exchange as the man strode away. She quickly realized that there was more than one Erza moving around the battlefield. "What the—?"

"Clone magic," Happy pointed out. "That weird guy over there uses it." He pointed a blue paw at the thin man sitting cross-legged in the field, his eyes shut under the oddly pointed hat with his mouth drawn into a straight line.

Lucy glanced at the skyship flying high above them, her gaze trailing down over the sea of mages and the like swarming around the field. Each and every person ready to die for their own cause. She suddenly felt very overwhelmed.

"Are you OK?" came the soft whisper from beside her as Adie rested a hand on her shoulder. Lucy glanced at the long fingers.

"Don't worry, Luce, we'll get those spirits back!" Levy slammed a closed fist into her palm, her face shining adamantly.

Lucy looked between them, noticing Natsu watching her intently. She met his gaze, holding unashamedly. He nodded, and she gave a strained smile as she feigned courage. "You're right, Levy! I don't know what I'd do without you guys!" She fought the tears that were threatening to break loose. There was so much more she wanted to say.

A blur of red hair caught her attention as Erza appeared before them, exhaling breathlessly. "That was...different!"

"I'd say," Levy remarked, eyeing the strange mage, who was yawning and stretching as the Erza replicas disappeared in a puffs of smoke. "That must halve your magic. Those were solid clones."

"Scary," Natsu muttered to Gray, "More than one of her is too many!"

"Agreed," Gray mumbled, crossing his arms over his chest.

Lucy shot them a warning look, though Erza was oblivious to the exchange. Adie bowed apologetically, "Porlyusica had requested I make this visit short." She glanced at Lucy, "My help is apparently needed elsewhere."

Erza nodded her understanding. "Watch over Master, please."

Adie closed her eyes momentarily, "She has something...that I have to see, so she says. But I will guard him with my life. Lucy, if you need anything...just call."

Lucy angled her head, unsure of what to make of Adie's directions. She briefly recalled something Veleda had said to her, hours earlier. Adie pointed to the Wisteria townsfolk. "They will be watching out for you as well, Erza, use them wisely, they are an invaluable asset in combat. That armor is handcrafted."

Lucy remained silent, as the pale-haired woman continued, "Your armor is satisfactory?"

"It is," Erza smiled grimly.

"Good, it was crafted for you, it seems. Heart Kreuz..." The demi-spirit glanced around once more, her mouth open to say something else before quickly deciding against it. Lucy wondered if she would have momentarily slipped from her stony facade; if she had nearly, for once, shown some of the emotion she kept so tightly bottled.

Adie's expression softened and she mouthed the words thankyou to the group before disappearing with a soft plop. Lucy jumped slightly, still not adjusted to the abrupt manner Adie's boots carried her.

"Must be nice to have those gadgets," Gray remarked, his hands shoved in his pockets.

"Your shirt," Happy pointed out the ice mage's missing clothing.

"Never fails," Lucy muttered, rolling her eyes.

"From here on out, be prepared for anything," Erza's voice was grave as she spoke to them, a hint of concern edging its way in. Natsu's expression was serious as he nodded, looking amongst his friends— his gaze lingering longest on Lucy. She met his eyes, her cheeks burning as her mind returned to the night before. She could still feel the trail of his fingers on her body, his lips on her skin, her nails on his back—

"Lucy?" Happy furrowed his brow, the patch over his eye making him look much older.

"Hmm?" Lucy shook her head to clear her thoughts.

"You're drooling."

"What? No I'm not!" Lucy yowled, aiming a kick at the blue cat, who chuckled as he dodged her boot. She briefly wondered if he had somehow learned to read her thoughts. She had noticed how much more in tune to feelings and such he had become since Veleda's vision.

"Now's not the time for that!" Erza cut in sharply. "We need to focus and recognize our strengths. Our strategy is to keep like magic together to complement one another—" she continued, her eyes flashing.

A sudden blur of fur swooped down as Charle screamed "Erza! Erza, the sun! I was wrong!"

"Huh?" Natsu asked as Levy shielded her eyes, staring skyward.

Lucy saw the brief flicker of recognition on Levy's face as Charle continued to scream, "It's an illusion. I just saw it. We are late!"

"Shit!" Erza hissed, her eyes widening as she comprehended the Eksheed's warning. She waved for the mage from earlier—the one that could use Amplification Magic—her eyes wild.

"What's going on?" Lucy asked, looking around frantically.

"The sun hasn't moved since we've been here," Levy whispered, her face growing pale, voice growing high-pitched. "How had I not noticed it?"

"Not moved?" Natsu asked as Gray's face grew ashen as well. "What's that mean?"

"It means," Charle screamed, pointing, "that we were baited!"

"MAGES!" Erza yelled as Rory initiated her magic. "BE PREPARED—"

Before she could utter another warning, the sound of an explosion tore through the sky. Lucy looked up to see Christina burst into flames.

"NO!" she screamed as Gray yelled: "Leon and Sherry were on that ship!"

The field erupted in a sea of rising voices as as the blazing airship plummeted toward the ground in a roaring blaze. Mages screamed and fled as the ship threatened to kill hundreds. Erza attempted to regain control, but it was too late. The devastation had already created fear and out of that fear came chaos. The only group that seemed unfazed was the Wisterians, who calmly awaited the swift fall of their mayor's arm.

"Oh no, no, no!" Lucy cried, her hands covering her mouth.

"It was all an illusion," Levy cried out, horrified.

"Shit!" Gray grit his teeth, tear-filled eyes wide as the ship crashed, the battlefield echoing with the ensuing explosions as the ground was torn apart in a path of devastation. Jura waved his hands, bringing up a wall of earth to stop the ship from decimating the mages scrambling across the field. Another mage joined him, reinforcing Jura's craft with rock. More help, and a thick wall of granite blocked out the horrifying visage. The ship was halted in its path, the flamed licking skyward and furling furiously.

"Gray!" Erza screamed as the ice mage took off running toward the shipwreck, his concern for his childhood friend. "Get back here! You have to maintain your position!" Her words were lost in the chaos that was ensuing from the ill-timed event. Elfman was able to hold Gray back.

"Let me go!" the ice mage screamed, tears streaming down his face.

"You have to listen to Erza-san, Gray. We will all lose someone. Stay strong, brother!" Elfman's beast arm enveloped his comrade, his words sinking in.

Lucy felt Natsu grab her hand, pulling her closer to him as Charle screamed, pointing to the sky. The mages looked up to see the sky fall apart, flecks of blue blowing away with the wind, revealing a dreary gray sky beneath, the sun farther along its zenith than they had realized.

"Shoot," Levy hissed to herself, "I should have realized the sun hadn't moved for hours!"

Lucy didn't respond as her eyes fell on the dark flecks hovering in the sky. She could hear Natsu curse under his breath as he, too, saw the opposition.

Erza's eyes bulged from her head as Natsu chuckled, "Erza!"

She turned to look at him, her eyes wide with terror as Lucy felt her knees grow weak in fear. It was a fear she had never felt before. She could see it reflected in each mage's face, the flames from Christina casting shadows across the field as thick black smoke snaked skyward.

"We are going to win!" Natsu grinned murderously, grinding a fist into his other hand. Erza recovered momentarily, her gaze torn away to look at their enemy. "Get it together!" Natsu yelled, suddenly clapping Erza on the back. "That means Jellal is here, somewhere, too, right?"

Erza nodded, her expression becoming one of determination as Natsu's words created meaning for her. She quickly grabbed Rory, "Let them hear me!" The homely girl squeaked in surprise, licking her lips and wiping her mouth. Lucy had seen the girl retching only a moment before.

"Do it!" Erza shook the girl forcefully.

"Y-Yes!" she agreed, her fingers touching her forehead in silent incantation.

"MAGES! FRIENDS!" Erza's voice echoed around the field. "THE TIME HAS COME, COLLECT YOURSELVES! THIS IS JUST ONE OF OUR MANY TESTS. RISE ABOVE!"

Lucy inhaled deeply, hoping to calm herself. She was oddly soothed by Natsu's close presence, even if he was grinning like a maniac.

"WE HAVE BEEN MISTAKEN, BUT WE ARE NOT FALLEN. MOURN OUR COMRADES, BUT DO NOT FORGET THEIR SACRIFICE. WE FIGHT FOR FREEDOM AND FOR GOOD. WE FIGHT FOR THOSE WHO WE HAVE LOST."

The field broke out in a random chorus of shouts, fists pumping high in the air, some with weapons, some without.

"BE PREPARED AND WORK TOGETHER, WE WILL PREVAIL, I HAVE NO DOUBT. BROTHERS AND SISTERS, THE TIME HAS COME TO FIGHT!"

"Where is he?" Laxus asked, impatiently pushing the door to the hall off its hinges as he strode in. He barely recognized the place. Had it changed that much since he had left?

No, been exiled. For being a fool and wanting power, he silently reminded himself, the thought paining him.

"Calm down, will ya?" Gajeel asked, not much less worse for wear. His eyes scanned the desolate place for the familiar blue hair. He felt his stomach sink.

"You," the pink-haired woman called as she entered the main hall from the side room.

Laxus stared at the woman, his eyes scrutinizing her for the first time. An odd air surrounded her. He sensed that she was a formidable opponent and an odd chill crept across his skin. He recalled her presence from his childhood, but she had grown more aloof since...since his mother had died.

Laxus could not recall the events surrounding his mother's death, but he remembered the days when his father was much happier. When he loved his son. Perhaps it was those memories that Laxus held onto when he wanted so badly to break the bonds with his tyrant father. That inability to separate bad from good had been what drove him to throw the guild into mass chaos to begin with.

The more Laxus stared at the woman, the more familiar her face became to him. It was his mother's face, he had no doubt. His heart was screaming at the resemblance.

"Grandmother," he muttered the words. He was too involved in his own thoughts that he hadn't noticed the flash of sorrow that crossed her withered face.

"I brought him, lady, where are the others?" Gajeel asked, his eyes scanning impatiently. He disliked the metallic taste of fear that filled his mouth. He had only experienced it a handful of times.

"They left half a day ago to meet the enemy," she whispered, her red eyes flickering from Laxus to the dragon slayer.

Gajeel's eyes grew round with realization, "Shit!"

"I don't recommend rushing out there like a fool, dragon slayer," she warned him. "Levy is far more capable than you give her credit for."

"Sorry, Laxus," Gajeel turned on heel, his fists clenched, "But I got bigger fish to fry." He turned and nodded his head in appreciation to Porlyusica. "No offense, lady, but that ain't nothin' I didn't already know. But I'm leaving 'cause of a promise."

A small smile of understanding passed over her lips as she silently watched him march out of the guild. Laxus stared in confusion, some sort of comprehension hanging in the air in which he was not privy to. The sudden sting that lashed across his cheek pulled him from the momentary distraction.

"What the—" he howled, refusing to flinch. He raised his eyes to meet the cold gaze of the angry woman. She stood nearly as tall as him.

"That's for the trouble you caused, boy!" she growled, her eyes flashing. "Your mother would be ashamed."

"My mother?" he whispered, the first real time he had spoken to this woman as well as heard anyone speak of his mother. His father had refused to mention her name. Laxus could barely recall her beautiful smiling gray eyes. What had happened to her?

Porlyusica's lips drew into a frown as she raised her hand. This time, she did not hit him, instead resting her cold palm against his other cheek. "You were so young...too young...you look like her. So much it hurts."

"Is that why you stay away, old woman?" he grunted, his face still smarting. He could feel the blood pulsating in his ears as the cyclic throbbing of his cheek made his eyes water. Or so he told himself.

She sighed, her eyes narrowing at his slight. She pursed her lips, "Got her temper, too."

The truth was, she hated the magical world. She hated it for what it did to her family and she hated it for what it drove her son-in-law to do to her grandson. He wasn't far off the mark, but the time was not right to discuss such matters.

"Come, child," she beckoned, turning toward the dark room she had exited, earlier. Laxus said nothing and she turned in the doorway, "Your grandfather's time is limited, and he wished to speak to you. Make your amends now, Laxus. If we live through this, we can talk later."

Laxus straightened, his stomach sinking at the news of his grandfather. He had been a fool. "Well, then, lady," he grunted, "You're giving me a reason why we should all live through whatever is going on."

He was answered by the soft croaking chuckle as she disappeared in the room, his soft, eager footsteps following soon after. He was too engrossed in his own thoughts to notice the dark figure standing in the doorway behind them.

Gajeel had never ran so fast in his entire life. He could taste the blood and bile in his throat as he pushed himself beyond any physical exertion he had ever known. His mind was only occupied by one thing. He longed to see her smile, even if for one last time.

Levy! Stay out of trouble until I get there, pipsqueak!

His thoughts thundered in his head as he tried to shut out the picture of her smile. In all of his years, he hadn't thought he would ever experience the happiness he had seen the others around him indulge in. He had rejected her meek advances and attempts to understand and befriend him. Gods, he had fought that for so long. But, no matter how much he built up that wall, she found a way to tear it down. No matter how icily he treated her, she had managed to warm up to him once again. It had nearly broken his heart to hurt her when Makarov had asked him to watch Adassandra, though perhaps his reaction had been to subconsciously push those buttons. It had felt so good to see her jealousy—to feel as if someone cared about him.

But now...now was his time to show that he cared. About her.

He had made a promise, and he was about to make good on it.

Adassandra's eyes widened as the young man strode into the room. He appeared to share her surprise as well, but with much less obvious of a reaction.

"No," she bit back her denial, the words slipping past her lips. "It can't be..."

Porlyusica said nothing, studying Adie's reaction as Makarov slumbered in the bed before them. She gently nodded her head in acknowledgment and Adie's eyes filled with tears. Laxus' brow knitted with confusion; he did not understand the odd woman's reaction.

"What's her deal?" He jerked his thumb toward her, his eyes briefly flickering to his grandfather's face as he met Porlyusica's cold stare.

"Hold your tongue if you don't want a matching bruise on the other side of your face," Porlyusica warned softly. Laxus stiffened, not trusting her to not hold good on her threat.

"How could you not let him know he had a child?" Adie's voice wavered with anger and regret.

"He could never leave the town, he would never be happy with that knowledge, it'd have tortured him."

"You could have gone back," Adie's voice was growing bitter.

"No, I would have never been happy."

"You denied him his right!" she clenched her fists angrily.

Porlyusica understood her anger. To this day, she regretted her decision with every ounce of her being. "I was a fool. It was only when I was ready to go back...to tell him the truth...that she was taken from me."

Adie noticed Laxus' stiffen at that comment. The anger surging through her veins urged her to lash out, to attack. She bit back that primal reaction. She was not in Porlyusica's shoes. She did not understand, but that did not mean she had to forgive the woman.

"I was wrong. I know this, child, so hate me if you want," the pink-haired woman softly spoke, "I blame myself every day. But, behold the blood of your mentor before your eyes. I have long avoided it myself, as well."

Adie's pale eyes lifted to meet Laxus', who looked quite confused. She nodded curtly, her features softening slightly, "I can see the resemblance."

"I can too, child, I can too."

"Are you two going to tell me what the hell you're rambling about?" Laxus cleared his throat impatiently, his eyes darting to his grandfather. Makarov looked much older than he remembered. Emaciated, he supposed.

"Your mother's father," Porlyusica did not tear her eyes from Adie's steely gaze. "Your grandfather was this woman's keeper."

"Eh?" Laxus frowned, somewhat intrigued in this sudden divergence in his family tree. This woman knew more about him than he did?

"Again, time is not on our side, Laxus," Porlyusica spoke quickly. "Makarov wished to speak to you—"

"Took you long enough to get to the good part, Porly," Makarov grunted from the bed.

"Fool!" Porlyusica spat. "It's your fault we are in this predicament!"

"Hmph," Makarov grunted, opening one eye to look at his grandson. His features grew soft as the young man quickly dropped onto his knees by the bed, tears in his eyes.

"So you can see, this is what I wanted you to witness before you left for battle, Adassandra," Porlyusica gestured. "He lives on in another."

Adie's anger was still there, but part of her was grateful to Porlyusica for sharing this with her. It must have been difficult to live like in isolation for so long, hiding from the truth of her past—the constant reminder of her mistakes.

"Grandfather!" Laxus bowed his head onto the bed. "I'm sorry!"

"Now now, Laxus," Makarov cooed, patting his kin's head. "We don't have time for that. There's a war on our hands, and I need your help now, more than anything."

Erza's plan had failed. Miserably.

She didn't mind so much about herself, but the fear on her comrades' faces struck her down. She had never felt more responsible for such a travesty in her entire life. I'm sorry, everyone!

She could see their meager army breaking into their assigned divisions, the assigned leaders dictating order as the enemy slowly closed in from above. Their time was minimal, and they must prepare as much as they possibly could. Some mages were huddled and crying, while others were putting on brave faces, hugging those around them and preparing for the fight of their lives. Erza was barking orders, her armor shining the respect she had earned in the magical world and as one of the Holy Mages. Jura nodded at her, and she grimly smiled in response. Erigor had taken his crew to the far north of the field. Offensive magics were to remain enclosed, the healers the most well protected, Wendy amongst them. Charle and Happy were protectively flying around, relaying Erza's last minute commands. Mirajane and Elfman were steadfast, the former waving at Erza before they took their post.

She was grateful for the faith they had bestowed in her, because, at that moment, she felt more hopeless than she had ever known. If Natsu hadn't been murderously grinning from beside her, she may have crumbled. She raised her head staring out at the slow approaching monsters. She could tell they were massive in size, their dark wings flapping sluggishly, yet propelling them quickly. She had no idea what to expect.

"Ready for fun?" Natsu asked, cracking his knuckles and glancing protectively over his shoulder.

"She'll surprise you, she's grown," Erza murmured, eyes ahead. The smoke billowing into the sky from Christina made her heart ache. Bob and others had been upon that ship. That was the horror of war: you were there one minute, the next you were a memory. They had lost one of their strongest assets. I'm so sorry.

Natsu said nothing, looking at his feet as Levy and Lucy hugged behind him. Erza smiled, a faint memory on her lips, "At least you got that time with her."

Natsu's head shot up, his eyes wide. It was the closest she had ever come to admitting her feelings for Jellal. "If I find him, I'll knock sense into him. He'll see. The way he was after the Council—"

"If I see him, I will kill him," her voice nearly cracked as she avoided his gaze. "It's what I have to do."

"No—" Natsu began to protest, but she cut him off with a wave of her arm. He was always so optimistic and trusting.

"He is the enemy. We are at war. Watch your back Natsu. Trust Lucy and worry more about yourself. You'll only put her at risk, as well." She lifted her sword high into the air, the sign that battle was imminent, not that their united army needed it. But, it was encouragement enough. Cheers rang out.

"For Fairy Tail!"

"For the Magical World, idiots!"

"We are allies until the end!"

Until the end, Erza thought bitterly. It had always sounded so romantic in fairy tales, but now...now it was the horror that comprised nightmares. She only hoped she could wretch herself from this horrible dream.

Lucy felt like she was going to vomit as she felt the impending doom suffocating them. The enemy was so close. What was the extent of their dark magic, she wondered.

"I'm scared," Levy murmured, a new pair of glasses on her face as she watched Natsu grip Erza's shoulder.

"Me too," Lucy whispered, squeezing her hand.

"He's really not coming, is he?" Levy glanced at her friend, her face crest-fallen as tears slid down her cheeks.

Gajeel. That's who she meant, Lucy realized. She looked at the bleak sky, a wry grin spreading across he face, "The fight is still young, he has time." Levy said nothing, nodding as Lucy squeezed her hand reassuringly. "He promised you, didn't he?"

Levy nodded.

"Then he'll be here. I trust him."

The blue haired mage's eyes grew wide, her face pale from the overwhelming fear and destitution. But, something about Lucy's encouragement made her feel better. She wordlessly pulled Lucy into a strong hug, crushing the Spirit mage.

"Oof!" Lucy exhaled, the air whistling between her teeth.

"I love you, Lu-Chan!" Levy sobbed. "You're the best friend I've ever had! If I die beside you, I die happy!"

Lucy pulled away, staring into Levy's eyes with tear-filled ones of her own. Suddenly, she felt an odd warmth wash over her. A hopeful warmth. She wasn't ready to die.

"We aren't going to die, Levy. I know it!" She furrowed her brow, her fists clenching as she frantically looked around for the Wisterians. The were splitting into two groups, flanking either side of the army. Lucy saw a battalion of longbows. Of course Erza, Jura, and Mirajane would have a strategy.

Her thoughts were interrupted as a loud screech ripped through the air.

Then another.

"What the fuck is that?" Gray screamed, pointing skyward. All eyes followed, as the large flying beasts circled overhead. They appeared to be large vultures—enormous enough to eat a human whole.

"Oh no," Lucy groaned. "Sagittarius!"

"Lucy!" the spirit bowed, his bow ready. He wasn't waring his horse attire, and Lucy barely recognized him.

"What—?" She shook her head, "Nevermind! Up there, can you shoot them?"

"I'll do my best!" he nodded, pulling back the string of his bow with acrobatic ease and releasing three arrows simultaneously. It was like a visual lullaby, the arrows hitting their mark, sinking deeply in the animal's neck. The monster cried shrilly, flying higher with a roaring flap of its wings. Suddenly, as if its heart stopped, the bird plummeted to earth, its wings limp at its sides.

"Watch out!" someone screamed as the lifeless body hit the earth hundreds of yards away. A cloud of unsettled earth billowed around them, the ground cracking from the force.

"Yes!" Lucy screamed triumphantly, grabbing onto Sagittarius' shoulder. "We did it!"

"Not so fast," Happy cried from next to her, pointing high into the sky. There were dozens more of the giant beasts, now circling high above of their fallen comrade. One swooped down, and Lucy grimace as she saw a body flailing in its mouth. With a shake of its head, the body moved no more.

"Sagittarius!" Lucy pointed, her face growing a shade of puce at the horrifying sight.

"Yes, Lucy, I will do my best! Take cover!"

"Down, now!" Erza yelled, her spear in her hand as she threw it with amazing agility and force. It penetrated another beast's neck, the bird falling like a rock as mages scattered. "It's a tactic. They are forcing us to reveal ourselves by breaking us up! Stay with your squadrons! Stand strong!"

She pulled her spear from a second beast's neck, her armor growing wings as she leapt high, slicing off a head with her sword. The decapitated body came barreling toward Lucy, and she had no time to react. She was bodily hurled to the side, and she instinctively curled her arms over her head as the beast's body impacted with the ground, throwing up chunks of rocks and clumps of grass, which rained down on her. Lucy tried to scramble to her feet, only realizing that she was being protected by something!

She eyed the black suit, noting the hooves in her face. "Let me up!" she yelled, pushing herself to her feet as the creature backed away. She noticed the glasses and equine-like body habitus as the tall entity bowed respectively.

"Miss Heartfilia," it—no, he—murmured, head low.

"W-Who are you?"

"Lucy!" she heard Natsu scream as a flame-engulfed fist finished off a still-living bird as it attempted to swoop down and maim. Mages scattered in fear, quickly regrouping with Erza's encouragement. A block of ice dropped from the sky, crushing the skull of another.

"I've got one more than you!" Gray triumphantly informed his childhood friend as he turned Juvia's rain into ice, which coated the beast's wings and rendering them incapable of flying.

"Bullshit!" Natsu yelled he turned to find Lucy. "You alright? What the hell is that?"

"I don't know..." she whispered, narrowing her eyes at the person before her. He felt oddly familiar. "Do I...know you?"

"You do remember me...I'm honored," the goat-like creature stood tall, nearly twice Lucy's height. He smiled, or so she thought. "I haven't seen you since you were a child."

"Capricorn?" she whispered, a sudden memory flashing in the forefront of her mind—one of her childhood boredom being waylayed by a playful friend.

"You look exactly like your mother, she would be proud," he mused.

Lucy felt tears prick her eyes, but she collected herself, "How did you—?"

"Your mother ensured our protection until you came of age, it was one of her final wishes to protect you, her heir!"

"But, all these years! Where have you been?"

"Your father," Capricorn quickly explained. "He was left with the final key. It appears as if Cancer's owner had been killed, and his key taken. You see, myself, Aquarius, and Cancer were your mother's original possessions. Her trump cards, as she would say."

Lucy vaguely recalled this knowledge. "You were with my father?"

"Yes, it was how he held onto the memory of your mother," the spirit informed her. "But...we were separated. He insisted I take the key and seek you out. I do not know his whereabouts, I'm sorry, Lucy."

Lucy felt her stomach sink. Her father had Capricorn all these years. All the years he was cold and distant—ignoring his only child. She stiffened, too afraid of falling apart by speaking of her family at that moment. She would worry about her father later. Right now, she needed to stay alive.

"Thank you."

"I have been loyal to your family for centuries, Lucy, it is my honor." The spirit bowed again, producing a key this time. Lucy reached for it with tentative fingers.

"Your freedom," she whispered, knowing that to have one's own key is the ultimate freedom.

"It's nothing if I do not keep my word to your mother," he murmured, his eyes hidden behind the dark frames. "My life for yours. I gave my word."

Lucy nodded, holding back tears as the key disappeared from between her fingers. The spirit smiled, straightening. "I do have a message from your father, Lucy, if you'll allow."

She said nothing, awaiting whatever message he was holding. He cleared his throat, "He says he is sorry, that it was his pride as a helpless husband and unsure father that prevented him from loving you as he should. As he truly did."

He said nothing more, and Lucy did not need an explanation, the tears spilling over. She wrapped her arms around Capricorn's waist, sobbing into his coat. The spirit softly tapped her with a hoof, as if understanding her pain. The only thing she had ever wanted was confirmation of her father's love. She knew her mother had loved her.

"Lucy—I must warn you," Capricorn continued. "There is magic out there that will...toy with your emotions, be strong."

"I will," Lucy sobbed, wiping her eyes as Natsu appeared beside her, his eyes scanning for enemies as he allowed the two to have a moment. He could tell it was important to Lucy.

"Goat Dude, huh? New spirit?" he asked, scrutinizing the tall presence. Lucy hiccuped. Capricorn bowed, quickly disappearing without a word. Lucy was becoming used to silently communicating with her spirits.

"Shit, there are more of them?" Natsu swore under his breath. Lucy instinctively reached for her whip, ready for whatever was to come her way. She had been reinvigorated by her quick interaction with Capricorn.

Erza's voice bellowed, "Prepare for back up as necessary. Supports brace yourself, there are wounded that need care!"

"It's really beginning," Lucy whispered, eyeing the already wounded as the last creature was grounded and hacked to death. She could see Wendy working to quickly heal those that were wounded. There were other supportive mages doing the same.

"Lucy, stay near," Natsu grabbed her wrist, and Lucy jerked into motion, her teeth clattering.

"No!" she argued, "I don't need you to protect me—"

Natsu turned to look at her, his brow crinkled in confusion."I—" he began, "I know that."

His mouth was open as if he wanted to say something else, but he never got the chance. A nearby explosion threw them in opposite directions. Erza screamed, her black armor glinting as she sped after some unforeseen force.

Lucy felt as if every bone in her body had broken as she attempted to push herself to her feet, her lip split from the impact. She wiped warm blood from her chin as she frantically looked for Natsu. The smoke was too dense, and she found herself unable to see anyone. She felt completely, eerily, separated from the fight surrounding her. She could hear footsteps and shouting—her name being screamed by Natsu and Levy. Suddenly, a cloak billowed in front of her, and her nostrils were overwhelmed by the stench of sweat. Her eyes widened and she gasped with realization as she rolled away before a foot connected with her head, instead sinking into the ground. She tried to scramble to her feet, the smoke clearing from around her.

Something dark and darting caught her eye, and, in her curiosity, she followed it. The dark-swathed thing from before was flittering in and out of visibility, leaving trailing wisps of smoke, taking the allied forces unawares. Mages fell, screaming as the curved blade slid from between their ribs, dark blood following the swift, graceful movement. Lucy was frozen with fear, her voice failing her as she recognized the enemy from moments earlier. After maiming a Lamia scale mage, the dark entity focused on her again. It disappeared, yet again, not reappearing as quickly as it had before. Lucy suddenly felt the hairs on her neck ominously prickle. Before she could recover, she could see the yellow eyes peering at her from between dark fabric.

She jumped back with a cry, two dark hands hitting her full in the mid-section. She nearly vomited as her stomach contracted with the force. She could only helplessly topple backward, arms flailing like an inexperienced child learning to walk. She hit the ground, quickly rolling onto her stomach as two feet stepped in front of her. She looked up, the masked enemy staring down at her, blade sliding out of its scabbard at its waist.

"What are you?" Lucy whispered, frozen in fear.

She heard the sneer as air was sucked in through teeth, and she could see the subtle change in fabric tension over its jaw. Lucy scrambled to her feet, her hand on her whip, but was met with a stronger hand resisting her movement. She was lifted from the ground by her arm, her feet dangling millimeters from the earth. She felt as if her wrist would separate.

"Let go!" she yelped, ashamed of how weak she felt.

She kicked out, her foot hitting a hard thigh. This time, the enemy let out a chuckle. With a soft plop and swirl of fabric, it disappeared, and Lucy cried out as she fell to the ground. She heard footsteps, and quickly grabbed for her whip, this time unleashing it as she lashed out at her foe, the thick links biting into an ankle. She heard a sharp intake of breath before her opponent quickly disappeared, and she jumped to her feet, knowing she was being baited.

An elbow hit her between the shoulder blades, and her vision grew fuzzy as she bit her tongue, once again finding herself on hard ground. Her eyes were filled with tears as she saw her comrades fighting around her. Erza's red hair pulled her back to reality. She grit her teeth, forcing herself to stand, once again being hit and knocked to the ground.

"Dammit!" she hissed between split lips as her hair was harshly pulled, jerking her head and exposing her neck. She felt a sharp blade against the vulnerable flesh.

"Say goodnight, sweet child of light," her foe hissed in her ear, and Lucy suddenly felt her life flash before her eyes.

This was it.

This was the end.

It was as simple as that. So many things she was never able to say. Things she would never experience.

"No..." she whimpered, clawing at anything within reach. She grabbed a wrist, attempting to fight off her opponent.

Suddenly, she felt the tension slacken and she scrambled from her foe's grip, spinning around to see her enemy stagger then stumble. She leaped aside as the blade was swung at her, her whip pulling it away from clenched fingers. Her foe stumbled again before falling forward and laying lifelessly on the ground. Lucy's eyes grew wide as she saw the arrow shaft protruding from its thorax. Her eyes lifted to find Veleda angrily watching her, a bow tucked neatly at her side.

"You called," the mage said simply, her hair neatly secured with a golden headband, her right hand bearing a leather glove.

"T-Thanks," Lucy whispered, grabbing her neck.

"I may not be able to get here so quickly next time." Her coiled auburn curls looked spun gold in the faded sunlight. Her eyes scanned around them. "Open up your eyes! Watch your surroundings!" Her tone was curt. She stared down at the unfamiliar enemy, saying nothing more.

"It won't happen again," Lucy swore as she rubbed her neck and tried to calm her racing heart. She had almost been killed.

"It won't," Veleda agreed. "You're being foolish for someone who so craved strength."

"You're right...thank you," Lucy sighed before blinking and realizing Veleda had gone.

I'm sorry, she silently prayed. I'm so sorry.

She inwardly sighed as the chaos died down. It had been a distraction. The enemy was baiting them. Everyone was overwhelmed and fearful, but spirits were high. Erza was holding her sword in the air, calling out for the allies to rally. It was a sight that calmed Lucy. She could see Happy yelling from above, pointing at her as she raised a hand to wave at him. She knew he was scouting for Natsu. She inwardly smiled as she realized they had survived, even if it were the smallest leg of the battle. Natsu was grinning at her after ensuring she wasn't injured too badly.

Levy waved from nearby, Juvia at her side. Elfman and Mirajane were in the far off distance, Mira tying the knot on another mage's tourniquet.

"We were worried, aye!" Happy told her, landing beside her. Lucy sighed, hugging both so tightly they complained.

For the first time all day, Lucy felt what she so desperately needed. Hope.

They would all need it, as Ultear's army would soon be up on them yet again. And no one had any idea what to expect.