Fairy Tail 1. Chapter 1

**Rising Goddess**

_**Author's Note**_

**If you guys are reading my other fanfics, I'm sorry about not updating. I found this old document e-mailed to myself on my g-mail account, and I decided to upload it just to see what you guys think. **

**This is my first Fairy Tail fanfic, and I hope you enjoy it!**

**Prologue**

"Master Makarov? Master, may I speak with you?"

Lucy Heartfilia of Fairy Tail stood in front of her master, clutching the silver and purple cloak around her. Her eyes had eye-bags under them, and there was no life in her brown eyes.

"Yes, Lucy?" He asked glumly. Ever since the death of Natsu Dragneel, everyone was sad. The guild never celebrated or fought each other. Most just drowned themselves in their sorrows by drinking.

Lucy knew she would never do that. It was degrading to the fire dragon slayer's name, so she avoided drinks. Lately, things had been too hard for Lucy. Everyone, the guild, and arguing reminded her of her dead best friend.

She couldn't bear it anymore. She had to leave.

The old Lucy Heartfilia was gone. Here came a new one, one who would avenge Natsu's killer. She was going to get stronger, and she was going to kill.

"Master, I have to leave. Seeing this guild kills me. It reminds me too much of..._him_," she explained, heaving a defeated sigh as she watched her master. Makarov sighed, slumping forwards on his desk. "I knew you would be the first to leave. You and, er, him were so close," he said knowingly. Lucy took the hood of her cloak off, looking her master in the eye.

"I know. Thank you for everything you've done for me. I plan of finding his killer. I'll miss all of you. Please don't tell anyone about this until tomorrow. I'm leaving Magnolia today," Lucy said. Makarov nodded sadly before going over the guild leaving tradition.

"You must never reveal sensitive information about Fairy Tail to others for as long as you live. You must never use former contacts met through your being in the guild for personal gain. Though our paths may have diverged, you must continue to live out your life with all your might, you must never consider your own life to be something insignificant , and you must never forget about your friends who loved you." he finished.

Will you ever come back to us?" He asked hopefully.

She waited for Makarov to rub the Fairy Tail insignia off of her hand. "Maybe one day. You can't hold me to that, though," she replied. Makarov hugged Lucy. "Be safe, child."

Lucy cracked a grin. "I will."

From that day forth, Lucy searched for Natsu's killer while learning new magic. In order to kill the mage, she learned all sorts of magic that she was capable of. Molding magic, lightning magic, water magic, and celestial spells. She changed her name to Alastrina Eden, meaning 'avenger'.

Following a clue for Natsu's killer, Lucy came across a large forest in a small village outside of Viliane, Sabertooth's town. The locals warned of a mysterious beast in the forest that tore up trees with a claw and allowed no one to pass. Suspicious of these stories, she ventured into the forests to investigate.

The birds stopped chirping all of a sudden, and the entire forest became silent. She walked further in, hands glowing with defense magic. Suddenly, a barrier rippled behind her before turning invisible. Concerned, she attacked the barrier, but it held.

"Hey! Are you the one in these forests that scare the villagers?" Lucy cried. A silver-haired woman materialized in front of Lucy. She wore simple white and blue robes and belt with golden stars. Her eyes were a brilliant gold shade, and she had unearthly beauty. She gave off a powerful and wise aura, and Lucy sensed that she was much older than she seemed. Her cheekbones were high, and her hands were delicate-looking and slim. Lucy stared in awe at the woman, her defense magic disappearing.

"Welcome to my territory. Most are not worthy enough to be able to enter, but it seems that you have been allowed to pass through," the older woman said to her, tilting her head. Lucy swallowed, answering, "I am Alastrina Eden, a celestial mage. And you are?"

"My name is Astra. Your real name isn't Alastrina Eden, is it?" She asked. Lucy stiffened, feeling the urge to tell the woman her true name. "No, but that is the name I go by," Lucy said softly.

Astra smiled. "Ah, I believe that is a reason from your past. I understand. It always difficult to overcome the past," she said sympathetically. Lucy stayed still.

Astra dipped her head. "Now, I have a proposition. You call yourself the avenger, yes? I can teach you a great magic to heighten your already fine-tuned celestial mage skills. Then you can truly avenge," she said. Lucy stepped back slightly, surprised.

"What do you mean?"

"I have been searching for an apprentice, a child, to bestow my magic upon. You are worthy. I can see it in your blood. Yes, you would make a fine apprentice," Astra mused. Lucy opened her mouth to speak.

There was a flash of brilliant gold light. Lucy covered her eyes, wincing from the light. As the light faded, in Astra's place was a large, beautiful silver dragon with blue ridges and horns. Lucy gasped. "A-astra? You're a DRAGON?" The dragon gave a bellowing laugh, vibrating the air. "Yes. Alastrina, you will become the first celestial dragon slayer in a millennium," Astra announced.

Lucy bowed. "I would be honored to learn from you. I...used to have a couple dragon slayer friends, too," Lucy said, pausing. Astra's eyes lit up. "Oh? Who?"

Lucy smiled. "Well...one was a sky dragon slayer, daughter of Grandine. Then a iron dragon slayer, son of Metallicana. There was also a second generation dragon slayer, a lightning dragon slayer. And then my best friend, son of the fire dragon Igneel," she replied, deep in thought.

Astra nodded. "Igneel...I came back from the dragon world, just to see if his son was truly dead," she said. Lucy's eyes were dark. "He's dead. I saw him die," she said flatly. Astra opened her mouth to speak but decided against it. "I suggest we start training. Sit down, Lucy. You need to focus on the magic power inside of you. Close your eyes. Breathe in, out. In, out. Don't lose concentration. Now, continue," she instructed.

Lucy obeyed. A heavy pressure was placed on her body. The air felt like it was heavier. Straining, she continued. Slowly, the pressure built up until Lucy could no longer continue. She gasped for air, choking.

"I c-can't..."

"Is this what Fairy Tail has made you, Alastrina? Don't give up! Push yourself to the limit. I know your magic abilities are far better than you would believe," Astra encouraged.

Beads of sweat popped up against her skin. She waited, gasping. Finally, the pressure was lifted. She let out a huge sigh of relief and fell backwards onto the ground.

"Th-thank you...I'm sorry if I was a disappointment," she said, bowing. Astra smiled. "Child, do not be like. The first thing I would like you to try is to be one with the stars. This is the essence of Celestial dragon slayer magic. Concentrate once again. Think of the stars and their light."

Following Astra's instructions and focused on the source of her powers. "Now focus this energy into a ball in the palm of your hand."

She cleared her thoughts and tried this. Nothing happened. This happened ten more times before Lucy grew frustrated.

"How am I supposed to do this?" she asked in exasperation.

Astra closed her eyes. "Celestial magic is not something tangible. It is more spiritual than any magic you will ever learn. Sine its source does not come from anything on Earthland, it is usually mostly impossible for people to truly learn. Now, again. This time, I want you to imagine yourself in an orb of light. Pretend this incredible power is all around you and you can use it to your expense."

Lucy did as told, feeling an enormous tremor of magic power burst to the surface. She was engulfed in glowing light, but she did not feel anything. "Well done. Now, I want you to focus your power on that tree. Heavenly bind. It is a binding spell as you can probably tell." Astra explained.

"Astra, I succeeded!" Lucy celebrated as she felt exhausted from this new spell. The dragon smiled.

"Yes, you have."

For Lucy, life with Astra the celestial dragon was difficult. The training was long and body-breaking at points, but she persevered. She _would_ avenge Natsu. After all, that was why she had agreed to train with Astra.

Everyday made her more and more powerful due to her hard work. Sometimes, Astra and her went on for days training without resting. For some reason, the dragon always seemed to be in a rush. Lucy never questioned her teaching ways, but she would have liked longer to work on her skills.

One day, Astra was very concerned. She looked afraid. Asking Lucy to repeat all of the things she had been taught, she was finally satisfied with the mage's training. The dragon nodded, breathing heavily.

"Master Astra, are you all right?" Lucy asked in concern. Astra lay down on her side.

"I...Alastrina, my dear, I am sorry. The reason I decided to take up an apprentice was because I'm dying. Today...I can sense that I will die. I'm sorry, Alastrina. Your training is complete, so you may leave. You are a complete celestial dragon slayer," she said sadly.

The large dragon sighed.

"Astra...Astra, please. You can't...I can't have you leaving me, too! Let me help you. I should find someone to help you!" She told the silver dragon, tears in her eyes. Lucy cried. Astra shook her massive head.

"You can not hinder fate, my child. I want you to promise me two things after I die," Astra said. Lucy nodded swiftly, sitting next to the dying dragon. "Anything, Mistress," she agreed.

"Promise me...to join a regular guild. Not a dark guild, definitely not. Second, promise me to never stray to the dark. Always help others and be kind. I know...I know that you will make me proud, Alastrina," she said.

Lucy wrapped her arms around the dragon's neck, smiling. "I will. I...I definitely will," she replied. Astra finally clipped one of her beautiful, shimmering scales off. "Take this. You will understand what this is one day. I know you will," she said. The dragon pointed a claw at the small wooden shack. "There..there is a single book with my handwriting in there. Please retrieve it and treasure it. I leave it in your possession."

Lucy sighed, getting the book from the shack.

"Astra, I need to tell you something."

The dragon made no motion signaling her agreement. Lucy continued. "My birth name isn't Alastrina Eden. It's Lucy Heartfilia, daughter of Layla and Jude Heartfilia. My mother and father used to be part of a guild. When they were older and settled down, they came back to the guild to see the guild sign. Instead of seeing 'Lucky', like there should have been, there was 'Lucy'. That is where my name came from," she told her. Astra chuckled slightly, her breathing pattern still slow and heavy.

"After my mother died, my father neglected me. I missed my family. We were wealthy, and my father was always focused on his business," Lucy said. She continued to tell her entire story, up to the time she met the celestial dragon.

"That man who killed him. I'm going to kill him."

"Lucy...I know you are hurt because of this man. Just remember that vengeance is not always the best way. Please remember for me, child. Now that you have told my story, I understand. I must sleep now," Astra said.

"Rest in peace, Astra. You are the best dragon out of them all. You will be close to my heart always, and I'll miss you a lot," Lucy said, crying.

Astra's mouth curled into a smile. "And I will miss you, child," she said.

The dragon fell asleep, her breathing steady. Soon, Lucy fell asleep curled up into Astra's side. "I'll miss you..."

She died peacefully.

Lucy woke up the next morning next to the dragon's limp body. She quickly said a blessing, and all of a sudden Astra's body started to disappear in golden sparks. "Good-bye, Mistress. The world will miss your pure heart," Lucy said. She bowed, touching her lips to the dragon's last place on Earthland.

The mage staggered onto her feet, breathing steadily. "I am stronger because of Astra. I will fulfill my promise to her!" Lucy decided. She walked, seeing no barriers anymore. The forest birds chirped, singing a sad song for the death of Astra, the celestial dragon.

Lucy walked forwards, coming across the village she had been in a eleven months ago. The villagers gasped. "Y-you? The wandering mage? You're alive!" They said, cheering. Lucy smiled. "Thank you. The beast is dead, and there are no dangers."

She winced. _There were no dangers in the first place. _

"Arigatou!"

Lucy left the village. She couldn't join Blue Pegasus, Lamia Scale, Mermaid Heel, Quarto Cerberus, or any of them. She sighed. "Sabertooth...I'm in the town Villiane anyway. I heard Master Jiemma has been replaced. Minerva is still there, though," Lucy mused. Anger rose in her, remembering what Minerva had done to her. She winced, shuddering.

"Open! Gate of the dog. Plue!" Lucy cried. She looked at her celestial dog, smiling. "Should I go to Sabertooth!"

"Pluue," he said. Lucy nodded. "Okay! I'll join, then," she said. She walked on, tugging her cloak around tighter. She wore gold and purple thigh-high boots, a short-sleeved purple top lined in dark gold, a purple skirt, a silver and black mask with intricate designs and a dragon just like Astra, and a long, dark wig to cover her blond hair. She placed her hood on gently, heels tapping against the pavement. Asking a couple of strangers where the guild was located, she finally found it. She knocked.

All eyes turned towards her as she pushed open the doors.

The Grand Magic Games's last competitors stood, minus Minerva and Yukino. Lucy took her hood off. "I am...Lily Ashley. May I join this guild?" She asked politely. She changed her name, not wanting them to realize her true identity as Alastrina which might trace back to Lucy. She smiled, thinking of her counterpart in Edolas, Lucy Ashley.

"If Master Iris allows it," a voice said. Lucy trained her eyes on the woman pushing through the crowd. Minerva. Fear spiked down her spine as she stared at the woman.

_Remember, don't hold a grudge. People change._

Hearing Astra's voice in her head, Lucy calmed down.

"Very well. I will talk to her." Minerva smiled before leading her to the new master. Lucy studied the girl. She had cut her hair short, and there were blue streaks in them. She no longer wore her blue dress, instead, she wore boots, leggings, and an elegant blouse. Minerva had changed without the influence of her father.

"Hey, what magic do use?" Sting yelled as she left. Lucy stopped, her back stiffening. Her heightened senses could hear everything around her. Everyone was wondering who she was. Taking a deep breath, she announced, "I'm a dragon slayer. My dragon happened to die not too long ago."

More murmurs. Minerva looked at her in surprise. Rogue's eyes narrowed. "I could smell dragon on you. Did you happen to kill this dragon?" He questioned. Lucy glared.

"I would never kill her! She was a friend and a mother, and I miss her too much," she replied, her vision flaring red.

She turned back to Minerva, snapping, "NOW, let's see Master Iris, yes?"

Minerva flinched before nodding. "O-oh, yes, Lily-san."

They knocked on a large, brass door. "It's Minerva and a new person, Master!" Minerva said. "Come in," a female voice said. They opened the door, and Minerva bowed before leaving.

The woman had brownish-red hair that was wrapped in a bun. She was beautiful and kind, completely different from the former master of Sabertooth. "Hello, Master Iris. Pleased to meet you. I am Lily Ashley," she said, smiling. The woman nodded. "I am pleased to meet you, too. You want to join the guild? What type magic do you use?" She asked.

Lucy grinned. "I am a celestial spirit mage and a celestial dragon slayer, but I also know water, molding, teleportation, and lightning magic. But it's much weaker than people that use it as their main magic specialties." she explained. The master smiled, impressed. "You would make a powerful edition to the dragon slayer team. We plan on entering and winning this year's Grand Magic Games. We would like a female mage to join, but none of our strongest would like to, even Minerva. Before the games, I would like you to train with Sting and Rogue," she said.

Lucy nodded, smiling and saying teasingly, "If I hurt both of them, don't say I didn't warn you." Master Iris laughed. "I like you! What color and where would you like your guild mark to be?" She asked.

"Silver on my arm," Lucy replied. She lifted her cloak slightly. There was a small glow when Minerva stamped it on, and then there was her mark. "Thank you, Master."

"Welcome to Sabertooth, Lily!" She replied with a smile.

Lucy grinned. Yes, joining this guild had been a good idea.

**I hope you guys enjoyed that! Please review, follow, and favorite. **

**-Flying**


	2. Chapter 2

**Rising Goddess**

**Author's Note**

**Thank you for the nice reviews and following this story! I hope you like this chapter and continue to follow and favorite. I promise there will be more StiCy and RoLu in the future if you like those couples. Please tell me if you want NaLu, StiCy, or RoLu. I'm sort of leaning more towards StiCy. **

**Disclaimer: I don't own. **

* * *

***Lucy***

I walked out of the master's office, smiling.

"Are you joining?" Minerva asked anxiously.

I snorted, looking at the girl I had once hated with my heart for almost killing me. "Of course I'm joining, Minerva," I said, revealing my silver guild mark. Minerva squealed and reached out to hug me, but Sting back-handed into the wall while trying to get to me.

I gasped. Why would he do that to his comrade?

"Eucliffe! Why did you do that to Minerva!" I yelled, helping her up.

I knew Astra had been right. There was no use holding a grudge on a person, especially if the person changed.

Sting glared at me. "Take the mask off!" He cried.

I shook my head, smirking. "No way! If you beat me in a fight, I will," I challenged.

The blonde dragon slayer's glare increased. "A challenge? You've got it! I'll definitely beat you."

Taking the fight outside, we watched everyone come out of the guild to watch us.

"Good luck, Lily-san!" I heard people say.

"Good luck, Sting-san!" Lector and Frosch flew around, cheering for Sting.

I grabbed a fist of my cloak and threw it the side, grinning.

"Bring it on, Eucliffe!" I cried.

"You're going to get it, Ashley!" He called back.

I laughed. "If I win, you have to wear a pink bunny suit for a week!" I said. Sting paled.

"No...I'm going to win this!" He yelled.

That was when he made the first move. "Roar of the White Dragon!" He yelled.

The attack would have hit me head-on, but I nimbly dodged to the side while making my own move.

"Lightning blast!"

He dodged right before it hit him, and we collided in a fist fight powered by dragon slayer magic. He was definitely powerful, but I would not lose to the likes of him.

I tilted my head, calculating quickly.

Sting was all power and speed. He had not connected with his Second Origin or the more emotional side of the art of dragon slayer magic. He would be a lot stronger if he did.

There was also the little things. He never changed his fighting stance.

"So. You're. A. Lightning. Dragon slayer," he said while fighting me.

I shook my head, laughing. "No, no! My dragon was stronger than that," I replied.

Sting glared, making a grab at my mask.

I lunged forwards and kicked him the side while holding my mask.

He flew back a few meters before stopping himself, grinning. "That was good, but you will have to be better to beat me, weakling," he taunted.

I rolled my eyes. "Water shield!" I protected myself from his dragon slayer attack.

My eyes widened as the shield broke, blasting me in the chest. I coughed, slowly getting up. I glared. Time to bring out my strength.

"Blow of the mighty stars, heavens above! Vanish the opponent, stars of the night!" I cried, creating a magic circle on Sting's chest.

A few moments later, a blast erupted on him, blowing him backwards.

"White drive!" Sting was surrounded by flaming hot white waves of light.

I winced.

"Heavenly Starlight - "

"Holy fist of the White Dragon!" He launched it me, faster than ever.

I could only dodge a few of the attacks. He had gotten much more powerful than when I had seen him in the Grand Magic Games. Frustrated, I realized I had to activate my own agility attacks to match up to his White Drive. Closing my eyes, I sensed his next attack. I grabbed a hold of his wrist and threw him in front of my leg, then kicked him upwards.

"Heavenly Starlight Aura!" I screamed. My hair floated upwards like a halo, and golden light flashed in every direction. My new guild members cheered. As the light slowly disappeared, I felt myself become stronger.

"Dragon slayer's secret art: Holy Nova!"

A blast hit me, and I screamed in pain.

"Sting! She's just a new member!" The guild ran forwards, worried that I had been too badly hurt. I gasped for breath and stood, seeing Sting just a few steps away from me.

I closed my eyes.

**Survey the Heaven, Open the heaven...**

**All the stars, far and wide...**

**Show me thy appearance...**

**With such shine**

**O tetrabiblos...**

**I am the ruler of the stars...**

**Aspect become complete...**

**Open thy malevolent gate...**

**O 88 stars of the heaven...**

**Shine!**

**Urano Metria!**

I threw my head up, eyes glowing gold. Because of Astra, this spell was now stronger than ever before.

Sting collapsed to the ground while I did to, breathing heavily. "Can't...breathe..."

Sting staggered onto his feet. "Dragon...dragon...force," he called.

I stood up, throwing out an arm. "Heavenly bind," I said. Glowing rays of light surrounded Sting and became solid. He struggled against it, but he couldn't move.

After casting the last spell, I fell forwards on my knees. Sting collapsed before me.

"I can...still...get up," we said at the same time. Both of us stood.

"Roar of the celestial dragon!"

"Roar of the white dragon!"

The blasts hit each other at the same time, competing against each other. There was a flash of brilliant light, and both of us were thrown backwards. I landed on my feet, controlling my energy.

"Open! Aries! Scorpio!" I cried, opening three gates. I couldn't fight anymore. "Attack him, Scorpio! Aries, wool bomb!" I commanded.

"Yes, mistress!"

I smiled as I watched my loyal spirits fight him, resting. Sting was blinded by Aries's wool bomb, and Scorpio was attacking him in his vulnerable state. All of a sudden, Aries was knocked out. Sting turned to Scorpio, sending him flying with a powerful punch.

"Closing gate! Thank you, guys!" I said. Aries disappeared while Scorpio sent me a sheepish smile.

"Sorry, princess. We are!"

He, too, disappeared.

I smiled. "You tried your best," I replied encouragingly. I turned away, sighing.

"Heavenly bind!" I said.

Sting dodged, blasting it away. I clapped my hands together, murmuring a spell.

**From the might of the star goddess,**

**Oh, server of the universe,**

**Lend me your celestial power!**

Light flashed through, blinding Sting. He was hit directly from the attack.

"Dragon slayer's secret art: White Demon!" He yelled. I braced myself for the attack, too tired to activate heavenly shield. I screamed, doubling over. I saw Sting do the same. We were both out of magic power and strength.

"I'm all out," he said, face down on the ground. I smiled to myself. "Call it a truce for now," I replied. Sting nodded, and we helped each other up.

"You're strong," he said, grinning. I agreed. "You, too, Eucliffe," I replied. He sighed. "So, since it's a draw..."

"I'll take my wig off," I compromised, smirking at his surprised look. Lifting the wig off, I brushed my blond hair down.

His jaw dropped. "Bl-Blondie? You're blonde?" I laughed.

"Yes, I'm blonde," I said.

Sting grinned.

"I wonder what other secrets you keep," he said.

I winked. "You would be surprised," I answered.

He crossed his arms. "So what do I do, then?"

"You'll wear a pink shirt for the week. Or pink whatever," I said.

He sighed. "Whatever. Okay," he said.

My new guild approached me excitedly. "You're really strong! Although, I don't understand what kind of dragon slaying magic you use," Minerva complimented. I smiled. "I'm a celestial spirit mage with twelve of the golden zodiac keys and most of the silver ones, and I'm a celestial dragon slayer," I replied. A young girl looked at me, smiling.

"Hey, you're a dragon slayer! Shouldn't you have...uh, one of those cat pets?" She asked me.

I shrugged. "Don't have one," I said.

She cheered. "That's perfect! There's been a cat hanging around our guild. She's white and black, and she talks, too!"

I grinned. "Well, I'll go see!"

"How do you know other magic besides dragon slaying?" A man asked. I shrugged. "I learned for a long time. I used to be in a guild of very experienced mages," I said.

Minerva grasped my arm as Sting and I walked inside the guild to get healed. "Lily, do you have a place to stay?" She asked in concern. I hesitated. "Oh...I forgot about that," I said sheepishly.

Sting wrapped an arm around my shoulders, grinning. "You can stay with Rogue and me. Our place has a bunch of extra rooms," he said.

Minerva glared. "Sting, you realize-!"

"It would be an excellent way to start training together if she lives with us," Rogue agreed. He looked the same as he had when I had seen him in the Grand Magic Games.

Minerva stared. "Oh, oh...of course. Lily! You have to get healed. Come on," she said, helping me. We sat down at a table, and she began to take out healing supplies. I smiled. "No need, Minerva. Arigatou," I said. She nodded.

"Open! Gate of the healer! Marianna," I said, waving a silver key. A beautiful celestial spirit with dark hair and sparkling blue eyes appeared. "Mistress, what do you need today?" She inquired, smiling gently.

I gestured to myself and Sting. "Please, Marianna," I said. She leaned forwards, and an icy feeling spread through my body as she healed my wounds and wrapped them in bandages.

Then she moved to Sting, who flinched at her touch. Minerva turned to me guiltily.

"Lily...where did you get those keys? The golden keys, I mean," she asked. I smiled. "A great friend of mine died and gave them to me. I've heard about you from her. I've heard about everyone," I replied. Minerva looked down at her hands, tears in her eyes.

"I'm so sorry, Lily! You remind me so much of Lucy, and I hurt her...I'm ashamed of what I was. I wish I could have changed my ways," she said regretfully. I fingered Astra's scale and the celestial book in my cloak. Minerva...Minerva had changed.

"I'm sure she would have forgiven you," I said truthfully. Minerva smiled. "I would've loved to know her. You know, I...I was jealous of her," she said, sighing.

"Jealous?" I asked in surprise. Before she could answer, Marianna interrupted me. "Master Lily, he has been healed," she said. I thanked her. "Close gate."

"Thanks a bunch, Blondie!" Sting told me. I placed my wig back on. "Anyway, why do you disguise yourself? What's the point?" He asked curiously.

"My past. It's not that I had a bad past, it's the fact that I don't want anyone to recognize me," I replied flatly.

_Especially you, Sabertooth. _

"Oh..." Sting said.

"So, are you moving in? Where are your things?" Rogue asked. I gestured at my cloak. "This is all I have, plus some things my dragon gave me," I said. Rogue nodded. "We can go shopping for you at the marketplace later," he said.

"Bye, guys! See you tomorrow!" I cried. My new guild mates waved back at me. "Bye, Lily!" They called. Minerva hugged me quickly. "Good luck," she whispered in my ear.

I followed the two dragon slayers. Rogue was quiet and emotionless while Sting was loud and annoying. "You're pretty strong, Lily," Lector complimented me as he perched on my shoulder. "Fro thinks so, too!" The green exceed said. I laughed, setting Frosch on my head.

"Aw...you're so cute, you know?" I said, giggling for the first time since I left Fairy Tail. We continued to walk towards Sting and Rogue's home.

I knocked into someone. "Ow!"

"Oh, sorry," a deep voice said, extending a hand out for me. "Lily, you okay?" Sting asked. I nodded, looking up at the person.

My heart pounded as I stared. "L-laxus?" I asked in astonishment. The blond lightning dragon slayer looked at me. "Uh...do I know you?"

I looked back at Sting and Rogue. "Wait, guys. I gotta talk to him," I said. Rogue raised an eyebrow, and Sting scowled. "Fine."

Grabbing Laxus's arm, I tugged him into the crowd so we wouldn't be heard by the other two. "Laxus. It's me. Lucy Heartfilia. You remember me?" I carefully took my mask off, revealing my appearance.

After the Grand Magic Games, I had helped get him and Mira together. After that, we developed a sibling-like relationship.

Laxus stared at me. "Lucy," he muttered, wrapping me in a hug.

I gazed at him, open-mouthed. Laxus had never showed this much affection before.

"Why were those Sabertooth dragon slayers with you?" He asked curiously. I smiled sheepishly.

"After I quit Fairy Tail...I, uh, went to Sabertooth. Laxus, I need to talk to you later when the boys are gone. It's about dragon-slaying," I said seriously. In my coat, I fingered Astra's dragon scale.

Laxus nodded. "All right. I'll meet you at that bar over there tonight at nine. That cool with ya, kid?" He asked, pointing at one in the market. I glared. "A bar? Seriously, Laxus!" I said.

He shrugged. "Whatever. I'm drinking today, anyway," he said. I rolled my eyes, adjusting my incognito outfit.

"Yeah. And it's Lily Ashley, by the way. See you later, Laxus. Don't tell anyone about this, got it?" I said as I walked away. He nodded swiftly and disappeared into the crowd.

I walked back to Sting and Rogue, relief spreading through my body. "What was that about?" Sting asked. He seemed angry for a reason I was not aware of.

"He...that was an old friend of mine. I had to talk to him privately," I replied. Rogue studied me. "Lily, you're not who you say you are. We are your nakama now. You have to trust us," he said.

_Nakama..._

**_Flashback_  
**

_"Oi! Luce!"_

_My eyes twinkled as I turned to look at the pink-haired dragon slayer. Excitement was written on his facial features, and he seemed so child-like. I chuckled to myself, watching him rush towards me._

_"Yes, Natsu?"_

_"Are you going to the festival? Droopy eyes is going with Juvia, and Erza's going, too. Everyone's going! Even Laxus," he said, grinning. I laughed. "I'll go if you are," I replied, patting his head. He shot me a mock-annoyed look. "Luce! I'm not a kid. I'll go with you. Wendy and Carla are coming with us, too," he said. I smiled at him, my heart pounding._

_"Okay, Natsu."_

_"Luce..." an embarrassed look crossed his face. "As long as you're by my side, things will be fine," he finished, a soft look in his eyes. I marveled at his sudden change. Natsu was definitely amazing. He was dense, but he was my nakama._

_I wrapped my cold fingers around his, beaming up at him. "Same here, Natsu," I said._

_Natsu grinned, whistling an off-tune song and swinging our arms. "You're my nakama, Luce!"_

_I smiled, looking down at our interlocked fingers._

You're my very best friend, too, Natsu.

_**End of Flashback**_

I bit back a sob as the memory flooded into my mind. I shivered, clutching myself and shrinking.

"Hey, Blondie, you okay?" Sting asked worriedly, patting my back. I shuddered, straightening my back. I couldn't show weaknesses. I was a powerful dragon-slayer in there eyes.

_You're also a girl._

"I'm sorry about that," I apologized in a trembling voice.

I took a deep breath, controlling my voice. "I'll tell you when I'm ready. There's just one thing you should know about me - Fairy Tail," I said. There stunned expressions were enough to tell me I had said too much.

"Uh, Lily, this way," Rogue said, gesturing forwards. I nodded and followed him. Frosch and Lector walked by my side, looking up at me in concern. It surprised me how quickly the guild members had warmed up to me. In a way, it reminded me of Fairy Tail.

We arrived at a large apartment building. Apparently, only a few Sabertooth members lived here. Rogue and Sting owned an entire floor. The others who lived here were Orga, Rufus, and a girl named Kiyoko. We climbed upstairs to their floor, and the dragon slayers led me to my room.

"Thanks, guys," I said. Sting smirked and waved, and Rogue nodded quietly. As soon as they left, I looked the door and took my disguise off. The room was nice and spacious with a white bed, a desk, and a night table. I smiled, realizing I wouldn't have to share a bathroom with anyone. I sighed, taking the book and the scale out.

I closed my eyes.

_Astra, I miss you so much._

"Lily! Hey! Open up, we're leaving," Sting cried, pounding on my door. I quickly prepared before opening the door. "Okay," I said. I brought along a small pouch of jewels. My keys and whip were on my belt, ready to go.

Sting grinned, slinging an arm around my shoulders. "Let's do this, Blondie!"

I raised an eyebrow. "You're blonde, too, Stingy," I teased. Sting turned fire-engine red. I laughed. "What are you two up to?" Rogue asked, arms crossed.

"Nothing!" We replied in sync. Rogue nodded. "Sure," he said sarcastically.

"Fro thinks so too!" Frosch said.

I squealed and hugged the exceed. "So cute! Soooo cute!" I said, squeezing him.

Fro gasped. "Can't! Lily! Let go!" He wheezed.

Rogue and Sting shook their heads behind me. "Girls."

I finally let go of Frosch to leave for the market.

* * *

**Hope you liked it. Please review and give me ideas if you have any. **

**Thanks, **

**Flying**


	3. Chapter 3

**Rising Goddess**

**Author's Note**

**Hey, guys. I decided to finally jot down this chapter. Thanks for all of the review for the last chapter. You guys are amazing! **

**XxFairyTail1: Thanks! I tried my best with this, so I'm glad you like it so far. **

**Jackalaterine: I'll try my best to update quickly. I'm not exactly doing a great job though. Sorry!**

**Kings119: Thanks for the support. This is my first FT fanfic, so I'm not really used to this community. **

**AnimexXxLuvver: Thank you :) Read on to find out! Anyway, I also really wish that Laxus and Lucy were portrayed as brother and sister. I hate how some people ship LaLu. (No offense if you like it. That's just what I think :))**

**ZaxForever: Thank you. Haha, not gonna lie, but I ship StiCy harder than other ships. I originally planned this to be a StiCy, so fingers crossed!**

**SakuraAkatsukiTaichi: I don't know what to say! Thanks for being so supportive. It means a lot to me. :D**

**lyn (Guest): Thanks. I'm trying to update quickly, so please keep on checking. :) I know I don't come to this site as much as I used to, but I'm trying to keep up with my schedule! **

**Rapunzel3: Thank you. That was very helpful and I'll think about where this story will go. Honestly, this was originally something a friend of mine told me to right. It was supposed to be short and around ten chapters or so, but I've got a lot of ideas for this now and I can't wait to see where this goes!**

**All in all, thank you guys for reviewing, following, and favoriting. You guys rock...but you probably don't want to hear me talk (or read what I write). On with the story! **

* * *

**Chapter 2**

Feeling lighter than I had in months, I traveled from store to store and bought arm loads of things. I forced Sting and Rogue to carry my things.

I took a deep breath. "A girl. I'm finally normal again!" I said, giggling. Seriously, though, I was finally a part of human civilization after years of living in a forest-do you blame me for acting hyperactive and crazy?

Sting shook his head, muttering to Rogue, "This chick is a lunatic."

Walking forwards, I entered a small store on my right. They sold advise for celestial spirits and keys. I snorted. That was completely ridiculous, but I went in anyway. As soon as I entered the shop, I sensed a middle-aged man and a young girl in her mid-teens. She was marveling over some of the celestial keys.

"...and Leo is right here!" The man said. The girl squealed. "I have enough money saved up! I'll buy - "

My eyes narrowed as I stepped between the two people. I would not allow the girl to be cheated. "That's a fake," I said. I glared, not believing how people could swindle little girls like that.

The man sputtered. "Wha-what? No, no, this is the real thing! How can you prove that it isn't?" He said, waving the key. I smiled. "Because, I am the owner of Leo's key," I replied simply. The girl looked at me, eyes shining with admiration.

I pulled out Leo's key. "Open! Gate of the lion. Leo," I commanded. Moments later, Loke appeared, bowing. "Hello, princess," he said.

"Hi, Leo. This girl was going to buy a fake key to your supposed gate. Tell her that it's fake and she should not be cheated by this man," I said, gesturing. Leo bowed. "Hello, princess. I am the leader of the twelve zodiac spirits, Leo. There is only one key for each of the twelve zodiac spirits. There is also a legendary thirteenth key," he explained. He continued to talk to the girl about celestial magic, until something snapped me out of my dazing state.

"...Lily is the best at celestial magic. She's the spirits' favorite master," he said. A lump formed in my throat as I smiled weakly. "That means so much to me, Loke!" I cried, hugging him. He grinned, winking. "I'll be off, princess. Good luck on your dragon slaying training with the twin dragon slayers. We'll always be watching over you," he whispered, hugging me.

Then he disappeared. I spread my arms, grinning. "So, there you have it!" I said. The girl bowed, her long hair reaching her knees. "Thank you, Mistress!" She cried. I winked. "Call me Lily, please. What's your name?" I asked as we walked out of the store with the man fuming behind me.

"Yuzuki, Lily-sama!" She cried, her purple hair bouncing. I smiled. "Yuzuki, do you travel around a lot?" I asked. She nodded. "My papa died, and I live at the orphanage," she said. She bowed her head. "I am always by myself," she murmured quietly. My heart tightened as I watched the girl look down at her feet. She didn't cry, and she didn't look ashamed. She just looked deflated, like she had no hope of ever finding someone.

"Yuzuki, you should join a wizards' guild," I said, kneeling down to look at her big blue eyes. Her eyes widened as she stared back. "A - a guild? But I can't possibly—"

"Guilds can take care of you. You meet amazing people and friends. You can be taken care of, and—" I paused, thinking of Natsu.

"You will find true nakama, Yuzuki," I said softly. Yuzuki smiled. "I will!" She decided.

I grinned. "Yuzuki, go to Mermaid Heel. It's just one town over. They're a great guild," I advised. Yuzuki beamed. "All right!" She said. I took out enough jewels to ride to the town. "I would take you there, but I know you can do it. Here. Ask someone from the train station to direct you to Mermaid Heel, and I know you'll get there," I said encouragingly. I didn't tell her to go to Sabertooth, thinking of all the crazy people there and all of their missions of 'pure strength'. Sure, they were better now, but old habits died hard. Besides, Yuzuki was a young girl and she probably shouldn't have lived in a community of perverted guys. Mermaid Heel was obviously a better choice for her.

"Okay! Arigatou, Lily-sama!" She said excitedly. I waved. "Good luck! I'll visit you someday, okay?" I said, hugging her. She hugged me back and left, winking before disappearing. I smiled wistfully. Everyone was leaving me, and it was probably my own fault.

* * *

"One shot of something light," I said, sitting down next to the blonde lightning dragon slayer. He didn't even turn as she sat down, ordering. "Hey, Lucy," he grunted, downing some more of his drink. I glared half-heartedly. "Shut up, Sparky. It's Lily, by the way," I replied. He gave me a look, and I knew he wasn't going to call me Lily.

"Whatever," I said as the bartender handed me my drink. I downed it quickly, glad to know that was fine.

Laxus nodded. "I know why you left Fairy Tail, but why did you go to Sabertooth? Everyone back home misses you. I can't believe you didn't clean out your apartment besides your valuable items," he said. I took a deep breath. "You know why. But none of the guild interacts with Sabertooth. I thought Yukino was still there, but she's at Mermaid Heel with Kagura," I said. Laxus raised an eyebrow. "No, that's not the reason. Why did you join a guild in the first place? Isn't it painful for you?" He asked, eyeing me critically.

My eyes twitched. He was too observant. "I met a dragon," I blurted out. Laxus choked on his drink, spluttering as he smashed his fist against the counter.

I rolled my eyes, trying to mask my nervousness from his reaction. Regaining composure, he replied, "Good for you."

I raised an eyebrow, downing another shot. "Yeah? Well, guess what. I'm a dragon slayer. She was the celestial dragon, Astra. She died a little while ago, and she told me to promise me to join a guild. I can't go back to Fairy Tail, and you know why," I whispered.

Laxus glared at me. "Damn! Lucy, you've been gone for two and a half years. I think that's been long enough of a break from your nakama. Your family. Everyone is so fucking worried. I'm telling them I met you and you're fine. Got it? And like it or not, but someday you'll come back to Fairy Tail or I swear I'll fucking drag you there, baka!" He hissed.

I glanced at him. His face was red with anger. I was surprised he actually cared this much about me. I mean, after I had helped set him and Mira up, we became close, but Laxus truly treated me like part of his family.

I sighed to myself, images of my the dead dragon slayer popping up into my head. He was there, helping me after Flare beat me and I was completely and utterly embarrassed, there to save me from the Royal Army, there to save me from everything we encountered.

"I can't," I answered simply. "Not until I find his killer. Until then I'm not worthy of being a Fairy. We're Fairy Tail, right? Don't we avenge our friends after they fall? It's our code, and he fulfilled that to the extent where he risked his life for the guild! How can you even be able to stand knowing that he has done so much for us, but there is nothing we can do for him? I am his best friend. I am a disgrace to his name," I muttered bitterly.

Laxus was silent.

"How do you think Happy feels?" He asked.

I choked. "Happy...oh my gosh, is he all right? I...I can't believe it. I forgot about Happy!" I screeched. The music was so loud, nobody heard me except Laxus. He nodded. "He's been taken into care by Erza. I think you should adopt him though if you're a dragon slayer. Lucy, you need an old friend with you. Don't say no. Erza's not always home. She's always on missions, and she never brings Happy. He gets lonely, you know," he said. I sighed, tears in my eyes.

"He would—he would want me to take Happy because I'm his best friend, but I don't deserve—"

"Bullshit! Blondie, get off your ass and go get Happy!" Laxus snarled. I paused. "I will. You must come with me, though. I'll only meet Erza and Happy. Laxus, the reason I asked you to meet me is this," I said. I pulled out the dragon scale and gestured at it. His jaw dropped. "This, Lucy. I don't know how you got this, but I'm really surprised that you did," he said, lightly touching it.

"I told you, I'm a dragon slayer! I can prove it!" I said angrily. He chuckled. "I believe ya, kid. I'm just saying. I think you need to go to a first or third gen about this," he said. My brow furrowed. I couldn't talk to Gajeel or Wendy. That meant I had to trust Sting and Rogue.

"All right. I have to tell them I'll be on a trip, okay? Is there anything you can tell me about a celestial dragon? Have you heard about it?" I asked urgently. Laxus hesitated before saying seriously, "The celestial dragon is supposed to be the very link between all dragons. It's what I've heard from that healer. If Astra has died, I don't know what will happen," he said.

I closed my eyes. "That's not good. I'll meet you here tomorrow morning at seven, okay? Hopefully you won't be too drunk to forget," I said with a roll of my eyes. Laxus grunted, casting a quick spell for a marker. Then he wrote a note to himself down. "Got it. See ya later, kid," he said. I grinned. "Bye, Sparky."

Then I left, sighing. I felt better knowing that an old friend was here for me, even if he had once been an inconsiderate jerk.

When I got back to Rogue and Sting's home, Frosch greeted me. "Lily-san!"

I sighed. "Hey, guys," I replied. I was lightly tipsy, but that was due to drinking shots of the light stuff. Rogue's eyes narrowed as his nose twitched. "You've been drinking," he accused. I rolled my eyes. "I'm still sober, Rogue. Anyway, I met up with my friend, and he couldn't figure something out," I explained.

Sting nodded. "He's a second generation dragon slayer, right?" He said. "I remember him from the last Grand Magic Games. So who are you then? It's like your scent changed so I can't tell," he continued. I shook my head.

"I can't tell. Anyway, I need your help. Please be honest and don't tell anyone. I'm trusting you as my nakama, so don't do anything to take away my trust," I said. Sting paused. "What's so important about this, Blondie?" He asked. I rolled my eyes.

_Can I trust them?_

_You must._

I sighed, deciding to listen to my inner voice. Pulling out the scale, I revealed it to them.

Complete silence overtook everyone.

Then all chaos took hold.

"WHERE DID YOU GET THAT?"

"LEMME SEE, FAIRY-SAN!"

"..."

"What does it do?"

"SHUT UP!" I yelled, fuming. The others were silent again, looking expectantly at me. I took a deep breath. "As a parting gift, my dragon Astra left this with me," I explained. "I don't know what it does, but she said it would be very useful."

Rogue gently took it, examining it carefully. Suddenly, he gasped. "Whoa! This is...this is the ultimate boon to give a human after a dragon's death," he said, flipping it over. I nodded. I remembered _his _scarf from Igneel, the one he always wore with dragon scales. Rogue quickly muttered a spell, and words appeared on the scale.

**In your time of greatest need, call out and we will heed.**

"What the...how did you do that, Rogue?" I asked, taking the scale from him. The scale pulsed brilliantly, almost blinding me. "I don't know what's happening!" I said, panic rising in me. Rogue and Sting shouted my name, telling me to drop it. Overwhelming sensations ran through my head.

* * *

_**Memory Sequence**_

_A young lady with flowing blue tresses and glowing green eyes bowed before the dragon, her armor clanking. The dragon was adorned with pearls and beautifully created golden armor, giving her a regal appearance._

_"Queen Astra, I have arrived again. Your final resting place has been set. We anxiously await your next regeneration," she said, leaning against her sword for support. The dragon queen dipped her head, spreading her wide wings out gracefully. "Of course. I hope to see you again in my fourth life, Rani."_

_The warrior Rani saluted. "That is all right. We will miss you, great mistress."_

_Astra simply nodded, closing her misty light blue eyes. "Let me rest, child." Rani closed her eyes, too, bent over the dragon. "Understood, great one."_

* * *

_"COME HERE AND FIGHT ME!" A massive scarlet dragon spat out electric green flames, stamping her feet ferociously against the earth. The ground shook, causing humans to fall forwards._

_"Iona, please." A new dragon stepped forwards with pain in her eyes as she looked down at her daughter. "Don't do this to dethrone me as queen. Come back to us. Don't fight. Look at this madness, Iona! You're better than this. You are the daughter of the great celestial dragon, yet you cause this carnage. What is it that you desire?" Astra asked desperately._

_Iona's eyes glinted darkly. "No, it can't be undone," she said._

_Then she attacked her own mother._

* * *

_"Igneel, if you would like, I shall visit Earthland for you to see if your son is truly dead," a dragon said, stepping into the light. There was a single bright diamond on her scaly forearm._

_"Astra, my queen, there is no need. You can not risk your chance of rebirth by going to Earthland," the red fire dragon said anxiously._

_Astra sighed. "No matter. I need a new handmaiden from Earthland. One day, she will come to the dragon realm and help me accomplish rebirth once again. I need her. She will be the matter of life and death for the dragons, Igneel. Watch over her after my death," she continued, clipping a scale off of her and handing it to him._

_Igneel bowed. "As you wish, Queen," he said. Astra nodded. "I have no need for your company. Please leave, Igneel."_

_The dragon padded out, giving Astra one last concerned look. _

_Astra stood over a pool of silver water. "Layla, I hope you understand." _

_**End of Memory Sequence**_

* * *

My eyes snapped open as I gasped for breath. My legs broke underneath my weight, causing me to collapse. Luckily, both Sting and Rogue caught me.

"Are you okay?" Rogue asked. I nodded, sucking in a breath.

"What happened, Blondie?" Sting asked. I didn't even have the energy to tell him to shut up.

I looked away, curled into a ball. "I saw her. She was queen," I mumbled. They picked up my words. "Yeah? What's that about?" Sting asked, staring down at me.

I stood up all of a sudden. I was determined to help Astra achieve rebirth or whatever. How would I do it, though? And the part about my mother. Layla! Was she a handmaiden of Queen Astra?

"What spell did you use to, ah, activate the scale?" I asked Rogue.

He sighed, quickly writing it down with a stylus. "There. Now, do tell what you saw," he said.

We talked for a long time.

* * *

**Question of the day: **

**How many of you are Zevis shippers? (Mavis and Zeref) **

***raises hand in an overly-excited way* ME!**

**Er...please tell me Laxus didn't seem OOC. I tried my best! **

**Hope you liked it! **

**~flying**


	4. Chapter 4

**Rising Goddess**

**Author's Note**

**Thank you all for following/favoriting/reviewing! You are really awesome. :)**

**If you read my other stories, I don't really have an excuse besides for Iridescent. My beta's been busy, so she hasn't really checked my chapters out yet. Please wait for that! **

**Also, I'm glad there's so many Zevis shippers out there. I'm annoyed to no end that some people absolutely hate it. **

**Thanks for the reviews for the last story: **

**Rapunzel3**

**Angie Swan**

**AnimexXxLuvver**

**Matchmakingdove1028**

**Hope you guys enjoy this chapter. THERE'S SOME STICY! **

***Lucy***

I woke up on my own, looking at the clock lacrima. Six in the morning.

I yawned, getting out of my room and walking out. As soon as I reached the kitchen, I saw a blonde dragon slayer devoid of any clothes to cover his toned upper body. He was only dressed in a towel that covered his lower half. He appeared to be in the middle of stretching as he looked down at something, probably a magazine. I screamed, flushing at the sight of him. "I didn't think you would be up!"

He looked up, blinking in confusion. I covered my face, gasping as I realized I wasn't wearing my mask. I cursed at my own stupidity.

"I have to get my mask!" I hissed to myself.

"Eh? Mask? You're not wearing it!" he cried in excitement. I screamed, trying to get back to my room to get my mask, but Sting blocked my path.

I fought him while covering my face, which didn't help because I couldn't see then. He finally flipped me over and pushed me onto the ground, forcing my hands off.

He leaned over me, breathing heavily. His breath danced over my naked face, and I squirmed under his weight.

"You...Natsu-san's girl," Sting whispered, reaching a hand to touch my face in awe. I slapped him quickly, glaring. "Get off of me, pervert! And wear some clothes!" I straightened and ran out of the room, hearing him chuckle.

I slammed the door closed, my heart pounding. I slumped against the door, clutching my chest. What the hell was that? Why was I so nervous?

The last time I had felt this way was with _him._

The pink-haired, incredibly dense idiot.

But Sting wasn't like him at all. Sting was Sting, and it wasn't right to even think of Sting as _him_.

I pulled out a piece of paper, writing quickly. If Sting knew, I obviously owed it to the others to tell them. I shook my head. I lived with them. It had never been possible to keep the secret of my identity from them.

**Rogue, Frosch, and Lector,**

**Hey, it's Lily. So, because of a certain mishap this morning, Sting knows who I am. Just ask him. I give him permission to tell you guys.**

**Today I need to go back to Fairy Tail for some unfinished business. When I come back, I'll tell you everything. Why I left the guild. What happened with my dragon. Who that guy was.**

**Can I trust you?**

**Love,**

**Your Partner**

I put my mask and wig back on, twirling my blond hair into a tight pony tail. Changing into a purple blouse, a denim skirt, and boots, I clipped my whip and keys onto my belt.

As I got out of my room, I saw Sting. He was still in his towel, which made me furious. "Stupid, annoying Stingy Bee! Where the hell are your clothes?" I yelled. I was surprised that the others hadn't woken up.

Sting looked up, smirking. "Yeah? I'm pretty sure you don't have a problem with this," he replied, gesturing at his body.

All of a sudden, I used my dragon speed to lunge forward and punch him in the face. He barely dodged, seeing as he had not expected such a violent reaction from the once sweet and kind celestial mage I had been.

"Why aren't you mad at me for what I did?" he asked cautiously. I glared, sitting on the kitchen counter top.

"I _am_ mad at you. It's just that my dragon told me not to hold a grudge. The only grudge I hold is unforgettable until I kill the man, but that doesn't concern you, does it?" I replied. He looked back, shocked.

I sighed. "Look. I'm not the cheery little girl from the Grand Magic Games last time. I've changed. Now, I have to go finish something up at Fairy Tail. I'll be back soon, so don't miss me too badly," I said. Sting raised an eyebrow at me, walking closer to me until our arms almost touched.

"You know, it's pretty suspicious how you keep on interacting with your old Fairy Tail buddies. You won't go giving Sabertooth away later on, right?" He whispered. I picked his words up with my dragon hearing, but I was surprised at the accusation.

"Why would I do that to you guys? You've been nothing but nice right now, I think. No, it's just that I haven't seen Fairy Tail in a year or more. I hope you understand, though," I replied.

He leaned back, appraising me.

"Yeah, you're telling the truth," he finally said. I nodded. "Give this to Rogue and the exceeds. I gotta go. See you later, Sting!"

Impulsively, I leaned forwards and kissed his cheek before running out with my cheeks on fire.

_STUPID, STUPID, STUPID BAKA! WHY DID YOU DO THAT?_

I squealed at my actions, slapping myself. Shameful! I wasn't supposed to be falling for Sting already!

I rushed to the bar, seeing Laxus already waiting outside the entrance with a bottle of beer in hand. "You ready to go?" he asked.

I nodded. We walked to the train station, a comfortable silence between us. Both of us understood the situation before us, and neither of us wanted to address it.

"Two tickets to Magnolia, please," I said, pulling out my jewels. Laxus shoved me aside and paid, grabbing the tickets. I fell on my butt in shock, looking at the lightning mage.

"Laxus!" I shouted, crouching back and sweeping my left leg under his legs. He, too, fell besides me. We glared at each other for a few seconds.

"Not worth it," Laxus mumbled, standing up and helping me up. I grunted my thanks as we walked towards our train station.

"So, you and that white dragon slayer, eh?"

"LAXUS!"

* * *

My heart was beating faster as we got off the train. I felt an overwhelming wave of nostalgia overcome me as I breathed in the scent of my home, Magnolia. Intense emotions filled my heart. Memories flashed through my mind as I felt tears trickle down my cheeks.

"Stop," I croaked, falling to my knees before the exact cherry blossom tree that _he_ had uprooted and replanted just for me. I placed a hand on the trunk, sobbing.

"Hey, kid, you okay?" Laxus asked softly, bending down and patting my back. I sniffed. "No, I'm not. This is the reason I left. Everything reminds me of him. I hate myself. He's done so much for me, protecting me while I was weak, but I couldn't even save him the one time he needed me most." I whispered, burying my face in my hands.

"Lucy, he wouldn't want to see you like this. He would be in pain, knowing that you were like this. And it's not your fault. Even Titania and Gray couldn't do anything," Laxus murmured. I cried.

"I-I know. I'm sorry, Laxus. Let's just go," I said, wiping my tears and standing up.

We walked towards the guild hall, and the feeling of sadness increased tenfold.

I took a deep breath. "You want me to open the doors?" He asked quietly. I smiled. "I got it, thanks," I replied.

I opened the doors wide open, knowing what was next.

People were laughing, fighting, and drinking, but everything seemed false. I smiled, seeing Gray trying to fight Elfman, who screamed about being man. I saw Erza, killing Happy about stealing her cake. Lisanna, Kinana, and Mirajane were laughing and helping out at the bar. Wendy and Romeo were laughing and talking with each other. I saw Cana and the others having a drinking contest.

My home was missing one important piece.

The fire dragon slayer.

As I opened the door, everyone turned to look at me in surprise. Their eyes shifted from Laxus to me.

"Hey, Laxus, did you get a girlfriend?" Evergreen from the Thunder God tribe shouted. I laughed.

"I'm Lily - er, just Lily. No, I'm not Laxus's girlfriend. I think that would be very weird since he calls me 'kid' all the time, and I'm basically his sister. Can I speak with Erza Scarlet, re-equip mage and...and..."

I paused, scanning the familiar faces. I wanted to talk to Levy, who was laughing with Gajeel, Mira, who was helping Kinana and Lisanna, Wendy, and Gray. I couldn't.

"Just Erza," I finished flatly.

The scarlet-haired mage looked at me in surprise. "All right. What would you like?" She asked. I hesitated.

"Privately, please," I requested. Erza eyed me for a moment before walking out with me. I followed her until we came upon an empty park with no people. As we sat down, she said, "Why did you leave?"

I laughed. "I knew you were smart enough to realize it was me," I said. Erza smiled, hugging me. "I missed you, Lucy. We all missed you. What have you been up to?"

I returned her hug. "First, I went around looking for _his_ killer. Then, I found a dragon. She trained me, so now I'm a dragon slayer. She died awhile ago, sadly. Then I joined Sabertooth. I live with Sting, Rogue, and their exceeds. I met Laxus, and he told me I should take up Happy since you're always away. I miss him, too," I said.

Erza was silent.

"Lucy, take off your mask," she commanded softly. I did as told. "Take Happy with you," Erza said. I nodded.

"We will miss both of you so much. Take care, Lucy-chan," she cried. I hugged her again. "You will always be my older sister, Erzie," I said. Erza looked at me in bewilderment. "Erzie?"

I laughed. "Yes, Erzie. Take care, too. Find Jellal and get him to join Fairy Tail, okay? I know he makes you happy," I said, giggling at her red face.

"O-okay," she stuttered. I grinned. "Okay, Erza. I'll miss you, but I'll come visit you soon," I said. She nodded. "Same, Lucy. You've gotten so much stronger, and I'm proud of you. Please come back to Fairy Tail some day," she replied.

I smiled at Erza. This was the reason I had first joined Fairy Tail.

* * *

"So...I'll see you later, Laxus," I said, watching Happy fly. The blonde mage nodded, sticking his hands in his pockets. Suddenly, he leaned forwards and patted my head, grinning as he hugged me. Once again, I was shocked.

"Be safe," he whispered. I flung my arms around him, hugging him tighter.

"I will be. You're like an older brother to me, so please don't get hurt. 'Kay, nii-chan?" I teased.

He flushed red as I called him 'nii-chan'.

"All right. You've got to do a mission with the Thunder God Tribe sometime, kid," he replied, ruffling my hair. I nodded.

"Bye, Laxus!"

He waved as I walked away from the train station. We were back in Villiane, and he had come to see me off. Even if I missed him too much, I would always see him in the Grand Magic Games. They would come in three months, and I was pretty excited.

It had only been two days since I had seen Sting, Frosch, Rogue, and Lector, but I missed them.

I was about to kick open the door and take the stairs to our floor, but I met a pink-haired girl at the bottom of the steps. I froze, staring at the girl. She looked almost like a girl version of...him.

I choked on my own spit. The girl's eyes lit up, and her first words to me almost seemed like no surprise—"Fight me!"

Her obsidian eyes sparkled as I replied, "Maybe later."

She stuck her hand out to me and introduced, "I'm Kiyoko! Age fifteen, Sabertooth mage, best friend to Minerva, enemy of Orga. What about you?" She asked.

I regarded her. She seemed young and nice, but I couldn't be friends with her. She was too much like him.

"I'm Lily Ashley, age nineteen, but I'm actually twenty-six. Long story short, I was stuck seven years frozen in time. My best friend died. I left my other friends because I couldn't take it anymore. Sabertooth mage, formerly part of another guild. I live with Frosch, Lector, Rogue, and Sting right now. Nice to meet you," I finished.

Kiyoko smiled sympathetically. "Aw! I'm so sorry, Lily! I wish I could help," she said sincerely.

I nodded, waving a hand.

"My life was hard, but it doesn't matter. I've become stronger through it," I replied simply. Kiyoko nodded, a smile still on her face. "Okay! Welcome to Sabertooth!"

I left quickly, looking back at the girl in disappointment. She was just like the dragon slayer!

I kicked the door open to Rogue and Sting's floor.

"ROGUE! STING! LECTOR! FROSCH! I'm home!" I yelled. No one answered me. They were probably at the guild. I shrugged, walking into the kitchen and grabbing a snack. A white piece of paper caught my eye, and I picked it up.

Written in angular handwriting was a message addressed to me.

**Lucy,**

**It was brave of you to tell us who you really were so soon. Thank you for truly trusting us as your nakama. I understand why you didn't want to.**

**I regret all of Sabertooth's previous actions towards you. We were terrible to you, and we didn't realize the true potential of your magical abilities.**

**Even Sting feels bad, and he's a sadisic baka. I don't expect you to forgive and forget so easily.**

**Meet me at the guild. Ask the master if you can go to the S-class floor and meet me at my room. You'll probably be granted S-Class, anyway. Give her this as permission.**

**Arigatou,**

**Rogue Cheney**

I stared at the letter.

They were sorry.

I turned to Happy, patting him. "Can you stay here? We'll be back from the guild soon," I explained.

The blue exceed gave me a bright smile and settled down on the couch, sleeping.

"No problem, Lucy!"

I sighed and rolled my shoulders back. Time to find Rogue.

* * *

**Thank you for reading this!**

**I hope you liked it. There will be a little bit of RoLu in the next chapter. Continue to tell me your fav pairings. **

**I'm pretty sure it's the standard FT pairings besides Sticy, but that may change depending on all of you! **

**Question of the day: **

**Which one is your most favorite FT pairing? **

**a) GaLe (Gajeel and Levy)**

**b) Jerza (Jellal and Erza)**

**c) Miraxus (Mirajane and Laxus) **

**d) Gruvia (Gray and Juvia)**

**This is a really hard one, but I've got to go with GaLe! They are pretty much complete opposites, but it's so obvious they care for each other! I loved the part where Levy was hugging Pantherlily to death during Gajeel's match with Natsu against Sting and Rogue. **

**XD And Gajeel's nicknames! **

**They are too cute, and they're perfect together. **

**Thoughts? **

**~flying**


	5. Chapter 5

**Rising Goddess**

**Author's Note**

**This is my longest chapter yet! Thank you for reading and reviewing! **

**flwoingstar-Thank you! I would say Miraxus and Jerza are tied for me and then Gruvia last, but that doesn't mean I support them any less! **

**Rapunzel3-Yep. I love StiCy. Natsu IS NOT DEAD. LOL I just gave it away. In the future, you will say what happens. There will be NaLu, trust me. Thank you for being so supportive :)**

**Matchmakingdove1028-My fav crack pairing has got to be StiCy, so I'm leaning more towards StiCy for this story. Thanks for the review! And I love Jerza too! They are just too cute together.  
**

**TheyCallMeCrazy01-Thank you! That really means a lot to me, and you don't have to apologize. BTW, I love your pen name. Haha**

**Guest 5/19-BIG HUGE HINT HERE GUYS! Natsu Dragneel comes in during the last day of the Grand Magic Games, so you will probably have to wait another eight chapters...probably. Sorry about that. XD But the story definitely will not end after the end of the GMG. As a spoiler, there will be some stuff with dragons. **

**Thank you and enjoy this chapter! And I hope you really like what Lucy finds about the Sabertooth master :)**

* * *

***Lucy***

I walked into the guild's main hall before heading into the Master's office. Knowing the contents of Rogue's letter, I realized this was an indirect way of allowing Master Iris to find out about my true identity. I sighed. There wasn't really a way to keep this from the Master anyway.

"Master..." I said.

"What would you like?" she asked calmly, shoving a huge stack of paperwork to the side. I cleared my throat. "Please just read this letter. It's from Rogue. After that, could you give me permission to go to the S-Class floor?"

She accepted the letter and read quietly. Then, she looked up at me. "Lucy, since you have trusted me with this, I shall trust you with my own true appearance." She shook her head, smiling to herself. "No one in the guild knows of my true identity besides Minerva. I trust that neither of us will reveal the other's identities, yes?"

I nodded cautiously, staring at her. _Who was Master Iris if she wasn't...Master Iris?_

Iris's reddish-brown hair melted away, transforming into a shimmering, silver color. Her eyes altered into a sapphire blue color, but they kept their original wise and knowing look. I gasped and stumbled backwards as she smiled, revealing two fang-like canines.

She laughed at my not-so-subtle reaction. "I am Diana Artemisia, demon of the Book of Zeref, now blessed by the fairies and no longer dark. I was previously part of the dark guild Tartaros, the evillest of them all. I possess the curse of the Moon Huntress. Not only can I control all animals I come across, including people, I also have the power of the moon. I control the tides and use the moon's bountiful energy. I'm also a master archer. I hit every target I come across, no matter the distance or the speed. As a demon, I am immortal, but I searched for good and I am now bound to the Fairy Queen. I am her handmaiden."

My jaw dropped. "Y-you...seriously...so powerful..."

I felt giddy inside, thinking back to Fairy Tail. _First...you were right about fairies. I guess it isn't that much of a mystery anymore. Fairies...they're real! _

Iris—or Diana—hugged me. "Lucy, you have so much to learn. Our magics are interconnected, as is our position as the ancient queens' handmaidens. You are Queen Astra's ultimate server, and I am the Fairy Queen's. I, however, am bound by so many spells, they would be impossible to break even by Lord Zeref himself." she explained.

Two hounds appeared by her side, both silver. One had a long black streak running along its back, the other had a white streak. They studied my stoically, not looking disapproving or favoring.

"Cerea and Berus, the devil hounds. They've been by my side since I first received the curse of the Moon Huntress." she said, gesturing at them.

I marveled at the hounds, reaching out to pet them. They snarled, snapping their powerful jaws as if to warn me.

A barrier appeared in front of the hounds, preventing me from getting any closer.

"I'm sorry, Lucy, but if any of them ever touch them, they immediately burn to ashes. You're lucky they even decided to appear before you today. Haven't you ever wondered why you've never seen them before? Cerea and Berus choose to remain invisible unless they consider the viewer worthy."

I smiled. "So, I guess I'm worthy."

She gave me a sidelong glance, a soft look in her eyes. "More than worthy, Lucy Heartfilia."

I bowed and thanked her. "I'm sure I'll visit you again soon. I'll be heading to Rogue's room now."

I quickly found Rogue's room. It was the quietest, and there was a sign that read "Rogue &amp; Frosch".

I knocked, rapping my knuckles against the door, and he called, "Come in!"

I walked in, seeing a shirtless Rogue using his katana and Frosch in his frog costume. I shook my head, surprised. Rogue never showed this much skin. My face began to feel unnaturally hot as I stumbled forwards, sending him a nervous smile. I watched in amazement as the dragon slayer beheaded three wooden statues at the same time and landed delicately at his feet.

"Whoa! You're going to have to teach me that," I said with excitement, forgetting all about his lack of clothing on his muscular upper half. Rogue flashed me a rare grin. He seemed at home in his room—which was basically just a weapons gym. The walls were lined with daggers, katanas, bows and arrows, machetes, and spears.

"No problem, Lucy-san," he replied. I nodded.

He examined me for a second before grabbing a katana off the wall. He offered it to me carefully. "Too light or too heavy?"

I wielded it with both hands and swung it around, trying to get a good feel to it.

"Too light," I finally decided, analyzing it. He went on to find another blade while saying, "I see why you visited Laxus-san, now."

I froze for a moment, staring in shock at his muscular back.

"I - I brought the fire dragon slayer's exceed, Happy, back home with me. He's living with me now, is that all right? Nii-chan asked me to get Happy. He said Happy misses me." I said.

Rogue raised an eyebrow. "Nii-chan, is it? And why don't you call him Natsu? What happened, Lucy?" He asked.

I stared down at the floor, fuming.

"He's dead. I saw him die." I said bitterly.

Rogue was silent.

"I can't imagine how you feel, so I won't push you any further. But, if you ever need someone to talk to, I'll always try to be of help." he said sincerely.

I glanced at him. He was really trying his best to be nicer to me. I nodded. "Don't ask me about him again. Also, I would like to help pay for rent, too. Can we all just take turns paying? I should start taking missions." I said.

Rogue nodded impassively. "All right. For now. We'll have to find a place for you to live, unless you want to be stuck with two guys." he said.

I shrugged. "You and Frosch are all right. Sting is stupid and annoying, and he likes embarrassing me. Lector likes Sting too much. I actually enjoy staying around you guys, though." I said, laughing.

Rogue chuckled softly as well. He handed me a second blade. It was silver and gold with hints of lavender on the blade's surface. I grabbed the hilt, making a practice swing. The balance was so perfect that I felt like the katana was an extension of my arm.

"It's perfect! How did you get such a flawless katana?" I gushed. He gave me an emotionless look. "Well, I have my ways," he answered vaguely, smirking.

I rolled my eyes. My brow furrowed. I had to tell him about leaving Fairy Tail, didn't I?

"Rogue, I left Fairy Tail because of the fire dragon slayer. Everything reminded me of him. I missed him. I _miss_ him. He was my best friend, and him dying was the worst thing ever. It terrified me that someone like him could die. He...he wasn't the type who would give up like that," I said softly. Rogue stared at me in silence.

"He's really dead. I can't believe that," Rogue muttered.

I smiled wistfully. "It took me a long time to register the truth, too. His death was kept quiet. If anyone outside Fairy Tail asked, he was out on a mission. No one told, because it was harsh on us. Well, actually, most of the guilds who closely interacted with Fairy Tail inferred and found out the truth." I said.

Rogue nodded, stepping forwards and pulling me close to him in a hesitant hug. I stood rock-solid in shock, mouth wide open. Rogue wasn't one to show affection. He was usually blunt and open about his opinions, never taking into account what others thought.

"I'm sorry. Truly. Especially about Minerva almost killing you. It wasn't right, and she was demented and sadistic then. She wanted to be considered a king to all. And the rest of Sabertooth are sorry. We laughed at your guild when it didn't make any sense to do so. You were all so powerful. Thankfully, Jiemma left and Master Iris came into power even if she was a newcomer. She and Minerva fought for the position, but Master Iris won. I still do not understand her magic. She changed all of us, opening our eyes. The world isn't just about victory, and I understand that now. Iris reprimanded Minerva of what exactly reality was. That's why Minerva's changed."

I carefully absorbed this and the truth quickly dawned on me.

"Minerva was jealous of my guild. Isn't that why she wanted to become Master? She wanted to change her guild, but she still wanted all that power. She thought I was weak. She wanted to show the world that I was weak, and she deserved to be revered and loved like me. But that girl didn't understand the truth of Fairy Tail." I said.

Rogue gave me a smile smile of admiration. "Brilliant as ever, Lucy," he replied.

I dipped my head, holding the blade in position and swinging in. "So...are you gonna teach me or not, Rogue-sensei?"

I smirked at his priceless expression.

* * *

"Okay, I'm calling a break," I gasped, wiping sweat away. Rogue nodded, sitting down at the small table across from me. He wore his robes again. I was almost disappointed, but I squashed the feeling down, scolding myself inwardly.

I drank a gallon of water quickly, quenching my disappearing thirst.

"That was a good training session, I think. I actually learned some stuff," I said, getting up and swinging the katana.

"You can keep it, by the way," Rogue said generously. I squealed, thanking him.

"That's so sweet of you!"

He grunted, waving a hand. "So, any weapons you can use?" He asked.

I smirked. My hand flew to my belt, and I tugged out my whip. It sparked with energy as I held it out, grinning. Welcome back, days of the old Lucy Heartfilia. I was still an expert with my whip, but I had gotten much better. It got to a point where not even Astra could defeat me in her human form without magic.

"This is my favored weapon, and I'm the best at using it," I said confidently. Rogue unsheathed his sword, beckoning me forwards.

"Come at me," he challenged, emotionless.

I grinned, snapping the whip back and forth. Suddenly, I lashed forwards, snagging his wrist and pulling it tight. I executed a quick snap of the wrist, flipping him forwards onto his face. He managed to disconnect the whip, but it just regenerated again, trapping him. He struggled, thinking hurriedly. "You're a monster with that whip!" He gasped after I threw him into the wall, causing a giant crack in the wall.

I stifled a laugh as he groaned, getting up.

"I have the advantage of length. This whip is a lot longer, and I can reach you easier. This prevents me from getting close and getting hurt. Also, don't be so sad. You have done better than most," I said, remembering my last encounter with a dark guild's master.

He had also wielded a katana, but I had defeated him so quickly it was almost comical.

"Mm," Rogue grumbled. I took a deep breath. "You know, I actually have so much to learn in my art of dragon slaying," I said, pulling out Astra's celestial spell book. All of the spells were unfamiliar to me. I hadn't tried any of them yet.

"Try the easiest one," he suggested. I squinted. She had written the most powerful and important ones at the beginning, and the weaker and easier ones at the end.

He flipped to the very back of the hand-written back, and I carefully read the notes in the margins next to the spell.

"'Starlight Blast. Said to be the most useful and simplest spell to perform when one is low on magic energy. It is mastered when energy is slowly poured into the spell, and it can eliminate things quickly. _Open the gates of enlightenment, o thousand years of wisdom...Starlight Blast!_" I read quietly.

"Try it!" Rogue encouraged. I got up, focusing on a wooden statue ten meters in front of me. I closed my eyes, focusing my magic energy in this single attack.

"Open the gates of enlightenment, o thousand years of wisdom! Starlight blast!" I yelled the last phrase, pointing at the wooden statue.

I sighed in frustration when it did not disappear.

"You're doing it wrong," Rogue said as he looked down at the book, "You've got to feel the power release from your very fingertips. It's not as easy as it says, but you've got to pinpoint all your energy into it. Focus. It shouldn't take too much energy, so try it again. It's like a natural feeling...like using dragons' roars."

I nodded at the information and tried again. Frosch flew around me, excitedly telling me to persevere. I tried it multiple times, knowing that I wouldn't get it since there was no magic tremor inside me. "One last time," I announced, sighing. Rogue nodded silently.

This time, I was careful to get it right. Magic was a feeling inside. It wasn't something to be read from books. It had to be done to be truly understood.

"Open the gates of enlightenment, o thousand years of wisdom. Starlight blast!" I screamed, feeling energy tremor out of my fingertips. Golden light blaster the statue to pieces, and we ducked from flying wooden chips.

After a moment of silence, I cheered. "Yes! I did it, Rogue!"

He laughed wearily. "Nice job. How about this one?" He asked, pointing at a new one.

"Fro thinks so too!" The cute exceed cried.

I worked on two more spells, repeating them over and over again. I smiled, cheering. "I got it!" Turning to Rogue, I pouted. "Rogue-kun, don't you think I deserve a reward for my work?"

Rogue's cheeks were tinted with pink as I said this. "Fro thinks so, too!" Frosch shared his opinion. I smiled devilishly, knowing the shadow dragon slayer wouldn't be able to say "no" to his exceed. He sighed in exasperation, opening his arms to me. "Come here, Lucy."

I scooted over and felt him press his lips on my forehead.

Then Sting knocked the door down and saw us.

"Hey, Rogue—WHAT?" He yelled, pointing at me. I looked up, waving and grinning.

"Hey, Bumblebee. I'm back," I greeted. He sniffed indifferently, shooting Rogue an annoyed look.

"Well, I'll come back later then," he growled in an upset tone of voice. Rogue rolled his eyes at his partner's actions.

I exchanged a look of confusion with Rogue. "I'll be right back, then," I said. Rogue nodded patiently.

Charging out of the room, I waved at Sting, who was looking out at the first floor below. I chuckled softly, watching his brooding expression. Lector was no where to be seen. Quickly and quietly, I tackled him around the waist.

He yelped in surprise, earning many of the guild members' confused looks.

"So unmanly, Stingy," I teased. He scowled at me, humphing.

I rolled my eyes. "What's wrong with you? The Sting I know would immediately retaliate and call me Blondie. Don't tell me you've gotten soft." I said.

Sting stayed silent as he continued to look away from me.  
"Sting, don't ignore me—,"

"The truth is, I'm scared," he mumbled. I stared at him in shock, gasping. He focused on me, his cerulean blue eyes dancing with worry and rage.

"Why? Why would you be? Hell, you're _Sting Eucliffe,_ the world's cockiest bastard." I said, staring at him.

Sting sighed, running a hand through his spiky blonde hair. "Last time I participated...I failed. I underestimated Natsu-san, and I failed. I'm afraid it will happen again. I'll be an embarrassment. I don't want it to happen again."

I bit my lip, watching the twenty-one year-old muse over his failures. Without that annoying smirk, he really did look younger and like a boy with simple dreams. In this vulnerable state, Sting was actually likable.

I placed a hand on his hand on the rail, surprising him. He looked down but didn't move it.

I gestured at the mages below us. "Sting, look at them. Your guild has changed. These are your nakama, your comrades. You won't let them down, will you? I used to love Fairy Tail this much, but now I can't. I want you to love your guild as much as I used to love Fairy Tail. Power isn't the only thing in the art of dragon slaying. There's so much more to it. I can help you win. I can help you get stronger. It may seem useless to you, but, in truth, the most important part of magic is the motivation. And family and friendships are the best motivations. Don't you see? You're not going to lose again. There is no use of being scared of it. Losing will make you stronger, and don't you forget it." I said softly.

He leaned forwards, an unreadable look on his face. Suddenly, he gripped my hand like a lifeline, bringing it to his cheek.

"Thank you, Lucy. I - I can't tell you how much better I feel now."

I snorted.

"Go talk to Rogue. Now."

He nodded, smiling sheepishly, before walking away. I sighed, looking down at the guild.

* * *

_**Flashback**_

_"Hey, Luce. Wanna go on a mission?" Natsu asked eagerly. I looked up from reading a book and trying to decode an ancient text with Levy. I sat at a quieter table in the corner, drinking a strawberry smoothie._

_"Sorry, Natsu. I've gotta figure this out with Levy first. It's really long, so we're both reading all the books with these characters to figure it out." I explained, waving at the giant stack of books. He sighed unhappily._

_"Okay...I'll just go with Erza and stripper, then," he replied reluctantly._

_"WHAT DID YOU CALL ME, YOU SLANTY-EYED BASTARD!" Gray growled, punching Natsu in the face._

_Natsu yelled, and the two became involved in a fist fight. A cup of beer knocked into the side of my face, splashing beer all over my clothes._

_I sweat dropped, an angry look in my eyes._

_"Who did it!" I exploded, pointing the cup at Natsu and Gray._

_"No one!" They squealed. I chucked the beer mugs at them and pulled my whip out, wrapping them up._

_"No more fighting! Levy and I need to figure this out!" I yelled._

_"Y-yes ma'am!"_

_Happy flew around the two boys, mocking me. "She's turning into Edolas Lucy...Scary Lucy Two..."_

_"Aye!" Natsu agreed, whining to get out of the whip's bind._

_I shot him a nasty look, smiling smugly. "Hehe, you can't get out! Now shut up and stay there!"_

_Natsu and Gray sweat dropped._

_**End**  
_

* * *

I smiled fondly at the memories, wondering why it was coming to me now. It had been such a long time ago. Even though I had just visited Magnolia, I already missed everyone there.

I pulled out a lacrima and tried contacting Laxus. Before we had parted, he had given me a lacrima.

I waited for his image to appear. "Hey, Laxus," I said. He was by himself in his apartment, eating.

"Eh? Lucy?" He said, looking at me. I smiled and waved. He smiled back. Lately, Laxus had gotten a lot nicer. People really could change.

"So, kid, what's up with you?" He asked.

I shrugged. "I just wanted to say hi." There was an evil glint in my eyes.

"I might participate in the Grand Magic Games for Sabertooth as Lily Ashley, depending on if I'm good enough," I said, grinning.

Laxus's eyes twitched. "Well, I ain't going easy on you, kid," he said.

I cracked my knuckles, smirking. "Oh, I wouldn't want it any other way. I hope we fight. I'm pretty excited." I said.

Laxus raised an eyebrow, grinning. "So, you ready to get your ass kicked?" He teased, arms folded.

I shook my head. "Sabertooth is gonna win this year." I said proudly.

Laxus's eyes darkened. "Have they been good to you?"

I smiled at him kindly. "Laxus, thank you for caring. Yes, they've been so kind to me. They've apologized, especially Minerva even if she doesn't know my true identity. You don't have to worry about me." I said.

He grunted before turning away. Suddenly, there was a knock on his door. "Oh, sorry, kid. I've gotta go. Seems like the Thunder God Tribe has arrived."

I rolled my eyes, waving. "See you later, egotistical-man-who-names-his-team-after-his-magic!"

He gave me a withering look before shutting the lacrima off. I grinned, pocketing the device.

"He seems cool."

I turned around to see Rufus Lore, the Red Bard. He held onto his hat, smiling at me knowingly.

"Oh, hello, Rufus-san," I greeted, eyeing him carefully. He didn't know who I really was, and I was wearing my mask.

Rufus nodded. "Call me Rufus, please," he said formally.

My eyes narrowed. Rufus...he was a tricky one. If I let anything slip about my true identity, he would probably be able to hold it against me. That was according to what I knew about him from before.

"So...who was that young man? And I'm very sure I've heard of the Thunder God Tribe." Rufus said casually.

I fumed. "Well, most people don't eavesdrop on other's personal conversations," I snapped, quick to retort.

Rufus continued to look on, amused. "Well, you see, this is not your private room. Also, I was very curious. You're a mysterious woman, Lily-san. I wonder who you truly are."

I bit back a curse. Composing myself, I replied in my sweetest tone of voice, "That's very nice, Rufus. But remember, curiosity killed the cat." With that thought, I viciously pushed past him and marched down the stairs.

I growled to myself, heading towards the bar. How dare he question me! It was my privacy, and he was invading it. He had no right. No right!

"Strawberry smoothie, please," I requested. The bartender nodded quickly and handed a glass to me.

"You're the new, really powerful mage, right? You almost beat Sting. What are you called—the celestial goddess?" He asked as I sipped my smoothie.

I nearly choked when I heard my new name. "Ah, what? Celestial goddess?" I asked in astonishment. It was pretty cheesy, and I was sure Master Iris fit the name better than I did.

The bartender looked at me in surprise. "Yeah, the goddess of the stars. The new edition to Sabertooth's Dragon Trio. That's what everyone's calling you in this city. You haven't shown face, so no one knows what you look like." He explained.

I laughed, musing. "Oh, I like the title. But 'Stronger Than Sting' would also work, too." I said.

He laughed with me, but stopped in mid-laugh, staring at something behind me.

"Huh? C'mon, you've got to admit it's hilarious how Sting is such a baby..." I said, giggling. I turned around.

Sting was glowering down at me. "What did you call me, eh? And everybody knows I'm stronger than you." He said.

I snorted. "In your dreams, Eucliffe. I was going easy on you. You haven't seen my molding magic yet." I hummed. There really wasn't a name for my kind of molding magic. It was very similar to the kind of magic the Garou Knight I had fought from a long time ago used, but I could only change the structure of existing elements. I couldn't summon them like he had.

He rolled his eyes. "I was going easy on you last time," he said.

I raised an eyebrow. "Really? You were using Dragon Slayer's secret art. I don't think that counts as 'going easy'." I said.

He glared. "You wanna go?"

I winked. "Actually, I want to fight a worthy opponent this time. Anyone you know of who will volunteer?"

The bartender behind me piped up. "Fight Orga! I'm sure he'll volunteer." He said excitedly.

"Did I hear 'fight' and 'Orga'?" A spiky turquoise-haired man with tattoos approached me. He was muscular and really huge. I remembered him from the last games. He had fought Laxus, but Jura had cut him down before he could begin to fight Laxus.

"I'm going to beat you unlike Sting!" He yelled, pointing a finger at me. I smirked.

"Sure, sure, whatever..."

Both of us walked outside, and our audience trailed behind us. Lots of people made bets on who would win. Master Iris came out and said, "If you beat Orga or get a draw, you can become S-class. You're already a powerful and experienced mage." She said.

Murmurs swept through the crowd. I cracked my neck, preparing for my second battle here at Sabertooth.

"All right! I'll definitely win this, Orga-san!" I screamed.

Orga shook his head. "You've never fought me before! You'll be sure to lose." He said confidently.

I grinned. "We'll see."

"And the battle starts...now!" Iris shouted. Everyone cheered. Some were rooting for Orga, and some for me. Adrenalin pumped through my veins.

Orga attacked first with his black lightning. I flipped behind him before using a quick and easy one-word spell. A blast hit him full on the back, causing him to stumble forwards. He tried to attack me again, but I dodged. This time, he sensed my movements and sent black lightning directly at my body. I quickly activated a defense shield, and the shield absorbed the attack.

I took a deep breath, switching to molding magic.

"Crumble!" I shouted, pointing a finger at the ground underneath Orga's feet. Focusing my power, I flattened the earth beneath him. He was swallowed instantly.

"I'll make this quick," I whispered to myself.

"Heavenly bind!" I shouted.

His arms were glued to his side. "Starlight aura! Wing slash of the celestial dragon!"

The attack should have hit him, but at the last second, the bindings burned off and he flipped backwards. I huffed.

"Roar of the lightning god!" He yelled. My eyes widened at the speed of his attack. I was hit directly, and I landed backwards. Pain ricocheted through my body. I winced.

"Open! Gate of the healer. Marianna." I said. The beautiful spirit appeared, noticing I was in battle. "Heal. 50 percent," I commanded.

Orga was making another attack. I panted, using my magic to get us to the other side without being harmed.

"Almost done..." Marianna panted, a determined look on her face.

"Way to go, Marianna! Arigatou. I must handle this one first." I said as I looked down at my newly healed wounds. Marianna winked.

"Of course, mistress." She disappeared.

I sighed. I could have defeated Sting last time with Gemini, but would I use them against Orga.

"Open! Gate of the twins. Gemini!" I yelled, swinging the key. The two appeared and turned into me.

"You know what to do! Unison raid." I told the twins.

They nodded.

"ROAR OF THE CELESTIAL DRAGON!"

He flew backwards, flying high into the sky. Gemini and I exchanged a look. "Oops."

"Open! Gate of the bird. Sora!" I said. A woman with curly brown hair appeared, her wings spread it.

"Yes, mistress?" She asked patiently. I pointed at the falling Orga. "Please."

She nodded and shot up into the sky, catching him. Then she flew down, carrying an unconscious Orga. Gemini and I winced, staring at the wounded man. "Oh...that's gotta hurt. Marianna, please heal 100 percent." I said.

The spirit nodded, chanting one of her stronger healing spells. As soon as she was done, both of my spirits left. I hugged them quickly.

"He'll wake up in two or three minutes, mistress," Marianna said before disappearing. I nodded.

"Oh my gosh! That was so amazing! Lily-chan!" Minerva said excitedly, bouncing around. I giggled.

"Of course, Minnie-chan," I said, smiling at her fondly. The girl jumped around, humming energetically at the new nickname I had given her. She was chattering with Master Iris. I caught a couple of words like "Lily" and "competing". Master Iris was nodding in agreement while smiling in approval.

"All right! We've got around three months before the Grand Magic Games. I know everyone is excited about the competition, but remember that it's not about victory. It's about learning from our opponents to become better mages. Even I will have much to learn from these games. Everyone will train for these events. And, now, I will announce the members." She paused, smiling, "Rufus. Orga. Sting. Rogue. And Lily! The reserve member with be Kiyoko." Master Iris said.

"Yay! I might get to compete!" shrieked the little girl I had met before. I clapped my hands over my ears, glaring discreetly at her. Just like HIM. So loud.

"Who knew a little weakling like you would get to compete, huh?" Orga asked Kiyoko, smirking. He had woken up a while ago. Kiyoko glared.

"Who you callin' weak? You just got your ass kicked by Lily-san over here!" Kiyoko countered, wildly gesturing at me.

I sighed, stepping away from the argument between the two.

"Lily."

I turned and saw Master Iris smiling at me. "Yes, Master?"

"Minerva will lead you to your S-class room upstairs. I think it's next to Sting's and Minerva's. Well done in battle. You are a force to be reckoned with." Iris praised. I thanked her, feeling warm.

Following Minerva, I opened the door to an empty room. "Decorate it any way you like. Also, no one else but you can enter after you claim it or give permission. You have to put your name on the door, first." Minerva said cheerfully. My eyes widened. It was the same size as Rogue's, but it was white with a mahogany wooden floor. The very back of the room was just a floor-to-ceiling window with thin black panes. There were small alcoves carved into the walls. Six to be exact.

"Hm..." I said. Minerva waved and left. I snapped my fingers.

"Oh! I'll put books in three alcoves and pictures in the others! There will be a desk there, and then a lacrima vision TV there, and then maybe I'll have a fridge there...and then maybe some practice dummies for spells...and maybe some new headphones and speakers...I have to ask Laxus where he gets lacrima headphones..." I mumbled, planning things out. I clasped my hands, sighing in a defeated way.

"So many things to do!" I moaned in disappointment.

"Hey, Blondie."

"KYAAA!" I screamed, snapping my whip at his general direction. Sting managed to dodge right before it him him.

"Baka! What are you doing in my _private_ room? It's called private for a reason!" I yelled.

"I wanted to visit my new blond neighbor!" He replied, pouting. I snickered.

"Hey, Lector, doesn't he look stupid pouting?" I asked the red exceed for his opinion.

However, Lector stayed loyal to his dragon slayer companion. "Never! Sting is the best at everything!" He replied confidently, grinning.

I snorted. "I thought you would lose the arrogance after you lost to, er, Fairy Tail's fire dragon slayer," I said.

Sting smirked. "I'm better than before. It won't happen again. After today's confidence booster from you and Rogue, I'm ready to kick butt!" He yelled enthusiastically.

"Child," I muttered under my breath, which he heard. Sting glared at me.

"Hey! I heard—"

He didn't have time to finish his sentence because I punched him in the face. "Sorry, Lector. I think it's time to go back home, anyway. Is Rogue cooking today?" I asked Lector.

He nodded. "Poor Sting-kun!"

I scoffed. "He's a dragon slayer. He'll be fine," I assured.

Lector nodded in pride. "That's right! You're smarter than you look, Lucy-san!" He said.

I sweat dropped, staring at the little exceed.

"Molding magic," I announced, pointing at the air in front of me. "Levitate!" The air particles formed a large, dense cloud, which lifted the unconscious Sting up.

I pushed open my private room, carrying him along with me. Knocking on Rogue's door, I waited for him to open it.

"Hello, Lucy. And why would you be here?" He asked. I levitated Sting's unconscious form in front of me, laughing.

Rogue chuckled, high-fiving me. "So, you wanna go home now?"

I nodded. "Yeah, and then tomorrow I'll pick up a mission and help pay for rent." I said. Rogue stopped in his tracks.

"You don't have to do that."

"I want to, and that's final. I might even get a lead on his killer." I said.

"You'll have to tell Laxus-san about that first," he advised, "He'll be worried sick if you don't tell him."

I flushed red. "Yeah, I understand. I'll call him tonight and say hi to the Thunder God Tribe, too." I said, thinking aloud.  
We walked through the streets, getting a lot of weird looks from passerby's. I shrugged. It was probably because I was levitating Sting's body in the air. I laughed to myself. He did look so stupid this way. I wondered when he would wake up. No one dared to approach me. They whispered to themselves, glancing at me.

"Miss, why is that boy floating in the air?" A small cute young girl tugged at my arm, pointing at Sting with wide green eyes.

I gushed at her cuteness. "Y-yes, yes! I punched him when he invaded my privacy, so now I am bringing him back home with us." I explained.

The girl nodded, smiling toothily. "Is that your boyfriend?" She asked, pointing at Rogue who was looking on with his arms crossed.

I shook my head, flushing. "No! He's a good friend. Right, Rogue?" I asked. He nodded in agreement.

"So, he's your boyfriend?" She asked, pointing at Sting. I blushed, cursing the little girl's innocence.

"I would honestly kill myself if that ever happened," I said. The girl's eyes filled with tears.

"Wh-why?"

"No, no! Don't cry!" I said in panic, dropping Sting on the floor and comforting the girl.

"B-but you would be so perfect together! And you could have the cutest babies!" She sobbed, rubbing her eyes.

My jaw dropped.

"Little Mira..." I muttered. She was like the Matchmaker in this way, talking insanely about babies.

"Look, kid. Sting and I aren't dating. We're not even great friends! So we definitely won't get married, okay?" I said, hugging the child. She sniffed, smiling mischievously.

"Someday...you will!" Then she waved and skipped off, humming happily.

I watched as the girl disappeared. That girl reminded me of Mavis when she was playing in the pool. I sighed, thinking of our first master who started the whole craziness that we lovingly deemed Fairy Tail.

"Shall we continue?"

I nodded. If only _he _could see me now...

* * *

**HEY! I HOPE YOU LIKED THAT AND I'M WRITING IN CAPS CUZ IDK WHY BUT IT MAKES ME FEEL REALLY NEAT AND COOL AND STUFF SO WHATEVER! SORRY ABOUT THE OOC LUCY AND THE ROLU AND STICY WAS PROBABLY TERRIBLE. I PROMISE THERE WILL BE MORE ROLU IN THE FUTURE. THERE WAS A LOT OF STICY IN THIS, I THINK. ROLU WAS JUST TERRIBLE! I'M SO SORRY ABOUT THAT...**

**QUESTION OF THE DAY: WHO'S YOUR FAV EXCEED?**

**A) CARLA**

**B) LECTOR**

**C) FROSCH**

**D) PANTHER LILY**

**OH, GOSH...I DIDN'T PUT HAPPY IN THERE BECAUSE WE ALL KNOW HE'S NUMBER ONE XD**

**IT'S A TIE BETWEEN PANTHER LILY AND FROSCH FOR ME! FROSCH IS JUST SO FREAKING ADORABLE, AND PANTHER LILY IS JUST BAD ASS AND AWESOME. **

**HAPPY IS JUST, LIKE, YOU CAN NOT DISS HAPPY OR ELSE YOU'LL HAVE A BUNCH OF FT FANS CHASING AFTER YOU. (INCLUDING ME...*CHUCKLES EVILLY*)**

**THANK YOU, PLEASE DO ALL THAT REVIEWING AND SUPPORTIVE STUFF THAT YOU'VE BEEN DOING. **

**PHEW...THAT TOOK FOREVER TO EDIT. **

**BYYYEEE!**

**~flying**


	6. Chapter 6

**Rising Goddess**

**Author's Note**

**Wow...you guys are all major Frosch fans. XD Though I can see it since he's all cute and innocent and whatever. So, guys, I think I've told you all that Natsu comes in during the GMG. I have a lot in store for that. And, I also have a special chapter coming up that you guys will hopefully enjoy...**

**Thanks for all the wonderful reviews! It's not as long as the last one, but I think it will suffice!  
**

**I promise to answer your reviews next chapter because I'm sort of in a time crunch...WHY THE HELL DO I TAKE SUMMER CLASSES? **

**Haha, sorry. Okay, enjoy! **

**BTW, if you need any clarification, like about Lucy's powers because I don't think I made that clear, please ask me! **

* * *

"LUSHEE! I missed you!" I was tackled by a flying ball of blue fur.

I giggled and hugged Happy back. "Ah, you stupid neko! I was only gone for a couple hours. You wanna go to the guild and get your stamp tomorrow?" I asked, letting go of Happy. He flew in front of me, doing twirls.

"Yeah! I'm so happy you got me. Erza's nice and all...but she's super scary and she's never at home!" He cried.

I grinned. "Lemme introduce you to Frosch and Lector!" I cried, springing behind the two exceeds and pushing them forwards.

Lector and Happy had a silent staring war. They glared at each other. I rolled my eyes, plucking both of them from their spots on the ground.

"Hey! Lushee, put me down!" Happy cried in a dismayed way.

"Put me down, Fairy-san!"

I glared at the two of them. "Idiots. Make up and be nice. The past is the past, so no one cares about it any more!" I growled, scaring both of them.

Immediately, they smiled and acted all buddy-buddy. I grinned. "Much better," I said.

Rogue chuckled as Frosch shook Happy's paw cautiously. "I'm gonna cook dinner. You guys can set the table in front of the TV if you want. And, Lucy, can you go shopping with Frosch? He knows what brands of food I usually buy. We need some new food." Rogue said, handing me jewels. I saluted, grinning.

"No problem! I'll be back in a flash," I replied, teleporting out of the building.

I walked to the market, hugging Frosch. "Fairy-san...do you like Rogue? Is he your friend?" He asked cutely.

I stopped in my tracks, staring openly in surprise at the exceed. "Of course! Why would you think otherwise?" I cried.

Frosch looked away, shaking his head. "Oh, no reason, Lucy-san," he replied.

I glanced at him suspiciously. "All right, then...whatever you say," I said. We quickly arrived at the supermarket, buying things that Rogue usually got according to Frosch. I used my own money even when Rogue gave me his. Common courtesy when living at someone's house.

I bought a couple of snacks that Natsu used to eat, strawberries,ice cream, and also a ton of fish for Happy. Frosch asked for grapes and cookies. Apparently, Frosch really liked grapes with cookies. I found it adorable, but anything Frosch did was adorable.

I teleported back up to the building, appearing and handing Rogue his jewels and groceries. "Here you go. I'm pretty tired, so I'm just going to go to my room. Get me when dinner's ready." I said, teleporting to my room. I didn't even want to bother with accepting the jewels from Rogue, who was always courteous.

Happy entered my room eating fish and waved before tucking himself into my bed and sleeping. I started to write. To Levy, Erza, and Gray. And, of course, Mother, who I now knew had some connection with Astra. I missed all of them, even I could have visited three of them at any time.

_Dear Levy-chan,_

_Hi! It's your best friend, Levy! I hope you have been well and happy. Have you gotten together with Gajeel? I'm sure you have. Even though he's one of the biggest idiots I've ever met, I think you and him would make a great couple!  
_

_Life for me has been great. I joined a new guild, and I'll be participating in the games this year with them. Seek me out, but I'm sure you won't find me unless I give myself away by using celestial spirit magic.  
_

_When it's time, I'll visit you again. I might even go back to Fairy Tail one day, but I love everyone in my guild right now. They're a little quieter than Fairy Tail, but you know, I think I like how they are this way. I still miss all of you and hope to see you soon!  
_

_Love,_

_Lu-chan_

As I started to write to Gray and Erza, my eyelids started to droop and I fell asleep.

_**DREAM SEQUENCE**_

_"Hello?"_

_I stood in a dark, empty area. There was nothing in sight, just the same dark, midnight color that engulfed me._

_"Anyone around?" I called, cupping my hands around my mouth. No one answered my yells. I walked around, thinking to myself. Maybe I should summon my spirits. I reached into my belt and realized I was in a night gown._

_Since when had I changed into a night gown?_

_I teleported to a different location, but it was only empty space, again._

_"Hey, Blondie."_

_I whirled around in outrage and saw a giant vision before me. My gaze softened when I saw Sting greet another me. In this scene, we were sitting at the bar and talking._

_The vision-me smiled, saying, "Hey, Stingy." Sting rolled his eyes in annoyance, sighing. He looped a muscular arm around vision-me's waist, kissing me.  
_

_I blanched, horrified by this new development.  
_

_I was swept into another moment, and I saw myself crying. I was above a young man with pink hair, and his obsidian eyes were shut. Him..._

_Sting sat next to vision-me at my side, hugging me. He said no words, and I knew he was trying to help. Vision-me screamed, a mournful and grievous noise and hugged the salmon-haired man closer._

_I stared at the vision, eyebrows furrowed. This had never happened before. So, what was this? An alternate reality?_

_Suddenly, the vision disappeared, and I was surrounded by darkness again._

_I blinked, staring into the pitch black. "Lucy!" I jumped, preparing defense magic. The person who spoke appeared next to me, smiling. It was a gorgeous woman with long silver hair and piercing eyes._

_My eyes widened and I ran forward, tears streaming down my face. I hugged the woman, and she laughed melodiously, squeezing me. "You've grown! I've been gone for awhile, my child, but I have missed you very much." She said._

_I laughed. "How are you able to contact me?" I asked. She tapped her heart._

_"My soul, of course. I am living, but my body simply died. My soul and memories are immortal. I am still the Astra you know of," she said. I nodded. I guess that made sense in a weird, twisted way._

_"So, there must be a purpose for visiting me through my dreams?" I asked._

_Astra nodded slowly. "In truth, I need help regaining a new body so I can live among the dragons in the dragon realm once more. I'm sure you have figure everything out through the scale. In time, I will need your assistance. Just be careful. Don't get hurt, and please remember that I will call to you in the near future. I know...I know you will find out how. Just remember, you can not always do things on your own. Sometimes, you must receive the help of others."_

_Her eyes twinkled as she held me by the shoulders, examining me. "I love you, Lucy. You're like a daughter to me. I'm sure your real mother is watching you. And she must be very proud of you."  
_

_I bowed. "Thank you...Mother," I said slyly, smiling. I hesitated. "I saw the vision in the scale. What does my, ah, birth mother have to do with you?"  
_

_Astra chuckled. "That's for me to know and for you to find out. Although, Layla Heartfilia was no handmaiden of mine. She had excellent potential, though."  
_

_Pausing, she smiled. "Now, wake up."_

_****End****_

"AH!" I woke up screaming, clawing at my drenched hair. Sting stood over me, snickering. Again, he was half naked.

"LUCY KICK!" I screamed, flying at him and kicking his face. Sting flew into the wall. "Ow..."

"STRIPPER, GO WEAR SOME CLOTHES, DAMN IT!" I screamed, pointing at him. I knew my cheeks were red from his exposed upper body. Happy flew around me.

"You llllike him," the flying blue cat teased, drawing the "l" out. A vein popped on my forehead and steam rolled out of my ears.

"You stupid neko! I didn't like that stupid dumb ass!" I screamed, trying to shove Sting out of room. Instead of successfully banishing him, he grabbed my wrist and pulled me close.

"Aw...is little Blondie all flustered because of me?" He asked. I glared. I knew he wasn't wearing upper clothing on purpose! He definitely wasn't Gray Fullbuster, that was for sure.

I wriggled in his grasp, trying to get out. He planted a quick kiss on my forehead before dodging my punch and running out. I screeched.

"YOU ARE SO DEAD, EUCLIFFE!"

I raced out of my room, passing the kitchen and grabbing a frying pan. "Where are you, little coward?" I yelled.

Rogue continued to cook, shaking his head. "You people. How do I even deal with such chaos?"

I found Sting on the balcony, backing away. Grinning evil, I hit the pan against the palm of my hand. He paled considerable. I cackled. "You don't have teleportation magic so you can't do anything! Prepare to die!"

Sting fell to his knees, begging. "Please, spare me this once, Blondie!"

My eyes twitched. "Don't call me Blondie, don't kiss me _ever_, don't charge into my room without permission, and don't you dare wake me up ever again. From now on only Rogue and the exceeds can do that." I compromised, putting the pan away.

Sting sighed in relief, walking out. I walked into the kitchen, helping Rogue with breakfast. Afterwards, Sting came into the room. I was happy to see he was wearing his usual blue, fur-lined vest and pants held by suspenders.

Happy and I ate breakfast before heading to the guild.

"Hey, guys, I'm going to the guild with Happy. Happy, you wanna go on a job today? I'll pick something easier for us first." I said, hugging the cat. Happy agreed.

"Aye!"

Rogue nodded good-bye, and Sting smirked, saying, "Good luck on the job...princess."

I glared before teleporting, taking Happy with me. We arrived at Sabertooth. Arriving at the Master's office, Happy got his stamp. Master Iris was very happy to see a new member.

"Which job do you wanna take today? S-class or regular?" I asked. The blue exceed examined the job listings.

"Hm...how about a regular one first? Just so you won't get hurt." He advised. I nodded as he showed me one of them.

"700,000 jewels. Defeat a wyvern and get five scales and Kasai herbs next to its cave. Wyvern from Mount Kasai." I read.

Happy thought for a moment. "Kasai's in Kasia Village, which is right next to Freesia," he said. I quickly got the mission and headed back to the apartment. The bartender called my employer, alerting them of my visit.

"So, you excit—"

I tripped over a small white and black cat with green eyes. She wore a fluffy silver parka and a silver belt. She yelped. "Hey, watch where you're going!" She cried, glaring.

I smiled in amusement. "I'm sorry. What's your name?" I asked.

The exceed sprouted wings and flew around me. "I'm Lotus Belle. I live at the guild mostly, looking to be a worthy dragon slayer's companion." She said proudly.

I smiled, dawning on me that this was the white exceed that people had spoken of earlier. "No need to look any longer. I am the handmaiden of the queen of dragons, Lotus Belle. Can I call you Lola?" I asked.

The exceed's emerald green eyes widened. "You are? Then I shall reveal my second form!" She cried. There was a flash and she was a slim and muscular cat like Pantherlily. She held a small bow and arrow in her hands.

I smiled. "You'll have to meet my friend Pantherlily. He, too, has a second form." I said. Happy flew around Lola.

"Lola-san is strong!" He cried. Lola pointed accusingly at Happy, sniffing in distaste. "Who is this? You can only have one companion. Not two," she said.

I laughed inwardly at her bluntness. Happy looked at her in a hurt manner. "Happy is my former best friend's companion. He was never my exceed companion. He is my friend," I said, smiling.

Lola nodded slowly. "Just remember, I am your best friend from now on!" She decided before shrinking back into her original form. I laughed.

"We're going on a mission. You coming, Lola?" I asked. Lola nodded gravelly. "I will try my best!"

I laughed at her answer, and the three of us headed to our apartment. We packed and introduced Lola to the others. She and Lector had a grudging respect for each other while she treated Frosch as a younger brother. Lola didn't quite warm up to Happy yet, who was trying his best to be kind to her.

I took out the lacrima and called Laxus. He and the Thunder God Tribe were hiking on a mountain. "Hello, Nii-chan!" I yelled. The entire group stopped in their tracks, looking at the glowing lacrima vision.

"Eh? Lu-Lily-san?" He asked gruffly. Evergreen, Freed, and Bickslow gasped.

"NII-CHAN? You have a sister, Laxus?" Evergreen asked in surprise. Laxus glared at me and I giggled.

"No. This weird kid just calls me her older brother for some reason," he answered grumpily. Bickslow pointed at me.

"Hey, you're that person who was looking for Erza! She seems to like you a lot." Bickslow said.

I nodded. "I am. Also, Laxus, would you prefer 'Cocky Jerk'?" I teased, smirking. Freed gasped in horror when I called Laxus this. The blonde mage growled.

"If you weren't somewhere else, I would kill you," he grumbled. I brightened.

"Just you try! I can't wait to fight you at the games, nii-chan!" I cried.

He waved a hand, tugging at his coat. "Fine. What do you want, kid?" He asked.

I pouted. "That's mean. I'm leaving on a mission with Happy and Lotus Belle or Lola, my new exceed companion. I probably won't be able to contact you for a few days," I explained.

Laxus rolled his eyes. "Always looking for trouble, eh? Where are you headed?"

"Mount Kasai. We have to get a couple of wyvern scales." I said.

Laxus nodded slowly. "All right. They aren't a problem. I know you can handle it perfectly. Be safe, kid." He said. I smiled.

"Of course, Laxus-san!"

He sighed and ran a hand through his hair. "Good luck, Lil. See you later."

His image disappeared along with three waving figures in the background.

I cheered. "Okay. Sting, Rogue, Lector, Frosch, we'll see you in a  
while!"

"Bye, Fairy-san!" Lector said to me.

"See you soon, nee-chan!" Frosch said to Lola.

"Good-bye," Rogue said, emotionless.

"Bye, Happy and Lola. Bye, Blondie," Sting said. I glared at him as he said this, promising myself that I would kick him later.

* * *

We arrived in the small village of Kasai after nine hours of riding on the train. Although it was small and cozy, Kasai had a very open and natural feeling. It was surrounded by rainforests and exotic creatures, and the villagers told of precious riches in the volcanic mountains of Kasai. Tourists came and went to see Mount Kasai cautiously in fear of the fire wyverns, but the wyverns rarely showed themselves in the presence of humans. Kasai village was small, so it was very easy to find the employer's home.

"Hello! I am the new S-Class mage that Sabertooth sent," I greeted, smiling. Lola and Happy perched on my shoulders, daring the man to hurt me. I laughed at their protectiveness.

The man, who's name was Akira, ushered me into his small home. I sat in his office, listening to his request.

"You see, my wife is very sick. The village shaman claims that only the scales of wyverns and the herbs it protects will save her from the rare disease. I'm afraid she doesn't have time. The problem is, the wyverns' scales don't work unless directly picked from a living wyvern and mixed with the herbs. So, I would like you to capture a living wyvern, pick the herbs, and place them in this pouch." Akira said.

I snorted. "No problem. This will be very simple since I'm a S-class mage. I've fought ice wyverns before." I said.

Akira nodded in delight. "Please hurry. I would like to raise the pay to 1,000,000 jewels, if you please. I am very worried about my wife." Akira told me. I waved good-bye and brought the exceeds with me, thinking.

"If we're going to the volcanic mountains, I think we should all wear something fireproof," I suggested, brining out Virgo's key. Lola nodded in approval.

"Open! Gate of the maiden. Virgo!" I cried, creating a gate. The purple-haired spirit appeared, doing a weird dance.

"Punishment time, hime?" She asked, bowing. I sweat dropped.

"No. No punishment. Ever. Could you find fireproof clothing for all three of us from the spirit world?" I asked sincerely. She nodded quickly before disappearing again.

We waited for Virgo's return, chatting about what the fire wyvern would be like. "He can probably blow flames like the ice wyvern could blow cold wind! He can immediately cook fish, then!" Happy said.

Virgo appeared, holding clothing for us. There were golden and red pants, black boots, and a golden top for me. She also provided me with a red and gold-lined cape. I quickly attached my belt, whip, and keys.

Happy was dressed in red and silver clothing and so was Lola. I twirled around in my new attire, grinning.

"This is so cool! This is actually fire-proof?" I asked, tilting my head. I placed my mask on and brushed my black hair behind me.

Virgo nodded. "Yes, it has been specially enchanted with magic to protect you from fire," she said.

I thanked her, and she disappeared.

"So, who's ready to find that wyvern?"

My companions cheered, high-fiving me.

We walked to a vehicle that brought us to the base of Mount Kasai. It was for tourists, and many of the people there wore cameras around their necks, snapping pictures at everything. I summoned Horologium to keep myself from getting motion sick. I admired the scenery, but these people really didn't have to take pictures of everything.

"And here we are! Arriving at the base of Mount Kasai. You can see many creatures here that live on these extremely warm conditions including the Fire Wyvern. It rarely appears in front of massive groups of humans, but everyone must be careful if they hike alone towards the top of the mountain," the tour guy said.

I shuffled out of the bus with the tourists, pointing things out to Lola and Happy.

"You should ask one of the people who work here where to find a wyvern," Lola offered.

I headed towards a young man in uniform who was studying a map. "Hello? Excuse me?" I asked politely, alerting the man of my presence.

He looked up, staring at me with turquoise eyes. "Huh? Oh, yeah. Do you need help?" He asked.

I cleared my throat. "I'm an S-Class mage from Sabertooth on a job. Where can I find wyverns?" I asked.

He gulped on fear. "B-but, the wyverns will kill you!" He exclaimed. Smirking, I cracked my knuckles.

"Boy, are you wrong. I'm an S-Class mage for a reason. I've fought wyverns before. So, can you tell me where they usually live in?" I asked. Lola glared intimidatingly, and Happy hovered over him silently.

"U-uh, just head towards the northern side of the mountain. A lot of wyverns over there. That's why it's closed. It will be hard to hike up there. The caves are towards the top, but be careful. The last man who went up there tripped on a rock spire and climbed down with a broken leg." He said, showing me the map.

"Hm...okay. I'll give this map back to you. If I don't come back which I highly doubt, I will need you to contact Sabertooth. Preferably Sting Eucliffe or Rogue Cheney. Actually, make that Rogue and Master Iris." I said, betting that Sting would be no help at all if something happened. The tour man's eyes widened.

"Seriously? You're t-the Celestial Goddess who just joined the dragon slayer trio!" He gasped. He bowed for forgiveness. "Sorry, sorry, mistress!"

I sighed. "No problem. I'll be leaving now, so thank you for your information," I said. He nodded in a dazed way.

I turned to Lola and Happy. "Okay, let's be as silent as possible. Isolate one wyvern. We don't want to attract multiple wyverns. Do you think you two can fly me up there? It would be less dangerous that way." I said. Lola and Happy lifted me up and flew towards the top.

"Okay, northern. If you need to rest, just tell me." I said. Lola huffed determinedly.

"The tom cat might need to, but I won't! I'm strong!" she said. I laughed while Happy pouted. So far, Lola only showed her all-powerful side. I knew she was humorous and daring sometimes, too.

"Thank you, guys," I replied.

"Aye!"

We finally arrived at the rock spire that the tour guy talked about. I created a defensive shield around us, pouring enough magic into the shield to protect us from the wyverns. "Do you see anything?" I asked, scanning the ridge.

We heard a small noise in a damp cave hole. Lola gasped, pointing at the giant beast. It was sleeping. I snorted. "Well, this will be easy," I said. Lola and Happy released me, retracting their wings.

"Heavenly bind!" I whispered. There was a slash and light concentrated into solids, wrapping and tightening around the sleeping wyvern.

I heard a roar of discontent. I cursed, seeing another wyvern. "Roar of the celestial dragon!" I shouted. The wyvern dodged and flew at us. It lashed its tail, grazing my leg. I looked down, seeing a large scratch.

"To the left!" I shouted, swerving from the incoming wyvern. I kept the heavenly bind on the sleeping one.

_"Blow of the mighty stars, heavens above! Vanish the opponent, stars of the night!"_ I predicted which direction it would go, successfully hitting the wyvern in the chest. It flew backwards, landing directly on the rock spire which mangled its right wing and leg.

I nodded grimly. "That thing won't be after us anymore," I declared.

Lola winced. "Just kill it," she whimpered. I sighed. _"Starlight, nightlight. Give thy creature a holy death."_ I whispered, pressing my forefinger to its chest. Moments later, golden light appeared and the wyvern disappeared in a shower of sparks.

Meanwhile, the wyvern in the cave awoke, trying to break through the bind. I felt my magic slowly shatter.

"Heavenly bind, triple times!" I shouted. At the same time, I lashed out my whip, tying the wyvern up even more.

I took a deep breath, switching magic. Heavenly bind disappeared as I focused on molding magic. I strained against my limits, trying to see if I could use celestial magic at the same time. Disappointed, I levitated the wyvern.

"Molding magic: Levitate."

The squirming wyvern slowly levitated towards us, but still at a safe distance. My whip tightened, but it didn't cut into the creature's scales.

"Molding magic: Double Trouble." I said, creating another whip exactly like my original one. Using this one, I also trapped the wiggling dragon-like animal.

Lola and Happy picked me up again, cheering. "Good job, Lily!" Lola said.

I smiled sheepishly. "Actually, Lola, my true identity is Lucy Heartfilia, former mage of Fairy Tail. No one else knows except Rogue, Sting, and those other exceeds. Around everyone else, please call me Lily. But, thanks." I explained.

I wanted to use celestial magic to summon Marianna to heal my leg, but I couldn't with molding magic still working.

Lola nodded. "Oh. I understand. You'll have to tell me about life in Fairy Tail."

We finally arrived back at the base of the mountain where the tourists were still snapping pictures. All eyes turned to me when I arrived from the northern side of the mountain. They were whispering things like, "Sabertooth".

I shrugged. It was understandable since I was levitating a real, living wyvern. I shifted my whips slightly, seeing the tour guy who had helped me. "Oi! Thanks for the help from before," I said. He merely nodded, staring at the wyvern behind me in awe. I bit my life. A part of me hated the attention and everyone's reluctance to approach me. It reminded me of my childhood. Just because I was rich, everyone steered clear of me, no matter how hard I tried to make friends. I was a foreign creature.

It was unsettling.

I sighed. "All right! Hi, hello. I'm from Sabertooth's newly reformed Dragon Slayer Trio," I introduced. I gently set the now sleeping wyvern down.

Tourists warily flocked around the wyvern, taking pictures with their cameras. Most crowded around me, asking questions. I sighed, feeling like a slight celebrity.

"Okay, everyone! I'm leaving with the next tour bus. These are my friends, Lotus Belle or Lola and Happy! Anyway, support Sabertooth at Daimotou Enbu!" I pumped my fist into the air as people around me cheered. Winking, I waved at cameras that took pictures of me. Lola and Happy were also caught up, and they happily agreed to have their pictures taken.

We arrived at Akira's house a while later, allowing him to clip the scales off the wyvern and take the herbs. After this, I gave the wyvern to rangers at Mount Kasai, who promised to let it go there.

"Thank you so much!" Akira cried, bowing before me humbly. I smiled, helping him up.

"I am a mage of F-Sabertooth. This is what we do," I said. I sighed inwardly, unsurprised that I had almost said "Fairy Tail". Akira's wife appeared next to me, strong and healthy. She smiled, handing me the bag of jewels. I shook my head.

"I'm sorry, I can't accept," I said.

Akira's wife's eyes steeled. "Please, take this. This is the least we can do for your help. Please honor us and accept it." She said.

I nodded, smiling. "Thank you. I'm happy you're better now."

With that, we departed from the small village of Kasai. We did buy a few souvenirs for the others. We caught a ride on the train back to Villiane, sleeping peacefully inside of my clock spirit.

"We're home!" I yelled, tossing the bag of jewels onto the table. Pointing, I said, "That's money for rent."

Rogue sighed, picking it up and weighing it. "This month's paying rent is tomorrow. It's 900,000 jewels a month," he said.

"Cool! That leaves you guys 100,000 jewels," I explained. Rogue shook his head, giving me the bag after picking out 300,000 jewels.

"We each pay 300,000," he decided, bringing out his own money. Sting groaned and handed it out, too. I laughed at his expression, taking back my money from the job and stashing it in my room.

"So, how was the job?" Sting asked as all seven of us sat down to eat.

I shrugged. "We killed it, I guess. We caught a wyvern and clipped some scales and stuff. There were a bunch of tourists that took pictures of us, though." I said.

Rogue raised an eyebrow at me. "I expect some publicity. You are the newest and one of the most powerful mages of Sabertooth. You're probably going to be bombarded by reporters tomorrow." He explained.

I rolled my eyes, not believing him.

Boy, was I wrong.

* * *

**...I have mixed feelings about this chapter. Sorry there was no romance, but I like to see kick-ass Lucy, eh? ;)**

**So, people who keep track of the anime, what did you think about last week's new episode? Erza and Kagura are definitely strong!  
**

**Question of the Day: Which guy in the Fairy Tail anime/manga would you most want to see turn into a girl for a day? Reasons, too, if you can.  
**

**a) Gray Fullbuster**

**b) Sting Eucliffe**

**c) Natsu Dragneel**

**d) Laxus Dreyar**

**e) Hibiki Lates**

**2ND Question of the Day: (XD I'M SORRY, I HAD TO) Which girl in the FT anime/manga would you most want to see turn into a guy for a day? Reasons, too, if you can. **

**a) Mirijane Strauss  
**

**b) Lucy Heartfilia**

**c) Levy McGarden**

**d) Cana Alberona**

**e) Evergreen**

**Personally, for the first, I would say Gray Fullbuster. I JUST HE WOULD MAKE SUCH A BAD-ASS GIRL! Well, Laxus, too, but he's wayyy to serious all the time. And I sort of prefer him as a girl :P I think Gray would never lose his stripping habits even as a girl, so that would cause a lot of nosebleeds, and he would get disgusted. AND THINK ABOUT POOR JUVIA'S REACTION! I love Gruvia, but this would be absolutely hilarious. Think about it...she would go on a rampage every time someone likes at Gray XD and she'd probably so worried that her Gray-sama turned into a girl. **

**For the second, I'm going to say Cana Alberona. She's one of my fav characters, and she's gorgeous! But, hands down, I would love to see a gender-bent Cana. I hope I'm not the only one. I think she'd kick butt no matter what gender she is. As a guy, I'm pretty sure she'd be one of those guys that seem to charm all the girls and have roses appearing everywhere. Yep. She'd be like the entire Ouran High School Host Club in one. AND I bet if Cana were a guy, her and Bacchus would be brawling all the time. I love CANA/BACCHUS. It's a personal fave, but I would love it if they were like frenemies. They've got a pretty unique relationship; I just wish it was more developed in the anime. **

**TY**

**~flying**


	7. Chapter 7

**Rising Goddess**

**Author's Note**

**I'm back! Wow, it's been a long time, and I'm so sorry I haven't been updating. *frown***

**Well, here I am! Thanks for all the reviews. I really can't ask for any more honest and supporting reviewers. I'll answer your reviews next Chapter, which will probably be uploaded tomorrow. Thanks for reading!**

**This chapter is more of a filler chapter with a bit of Rolu and Sticy. The next chapter is basically all action and kicking and xD? It will also be super long, so prepare yourself!**

**Thank you, and I hope you had an awesome Thanksgiving if you celebrate it.**

* * *

**6**

"COOOOLLL!"

"Who are you dating?"

"What do you usually wear?"

"SHOW OFF YOUR AWESOME POWERS!"

I looked up to see the four main reporters and cameramen of Sorcerer Weekly. Sighing, I got up.

Rogue and Sting chuckled at my annoyance.

"Okay! You want a real interview on me, right?" I asked. I sighed, remembering the time I had wanted to become a model for Sorcerer Weekly.

I flung off my cape, revealing my simple purple top, silver boots, and black skirt over leggings. Striking a pose, I gave the camera a beautiful smile for their photo shoot, my silver Sabertooth mark in clear display.

"Oh! Do a battle pose!" A girl with a camera cried at me, snapping pictures. I heard my guild members mumble and praise me from behind.

Lashing out my whip, I obeyed their requests. "Hold your whip loosely at your side and pretend to walk forwards!"

I did as told, smirking into the camera. The photo shoot centered around me continued. I was surprised, though. Why would anyone want to do an interview on me?

"Coool! What is your favorite color?" Jason asked hyperly, writing in his notepad.

"Silver and purple," I responded, gesturing at my attire.

"What's your favorite animal?"

I glanced at Lola and Happy. "Obviously cats. Have you seen Lotus Belle or Happy? They're awesome!"

Lola glowed with pride, winking at me. Happy cheered, eating his fish with Lector.

The interview continued, and they told me I would be in this week's upcoming issue. Sting smirked at me. "Can't wait to see those pics of you, princess," he said.

Vanessa, the girl cameraman, squealed. "Come on! Lily-san, Sting-san, please pose together!"

Sting flashed his trademark smile for the camera, slinging an arm around my shoulders and squeezing me to his chest.

Vanessa sighed. "Closer."

I reluctantly moved closer while Sting practically crushed me in his embrace.

"Closer."

"Clo—"

"WE'RE CLOSE ENOUGH AS IT IS!" I shouted angrily. Vanessa squeaked an okay before taking the shot.

"Now, Lily-san with Rogue-san!" This shot was much easier since Rogue and I were just told to hold hands with our fists in the air.

After that, the exceeds took individual shots. Soon, the Sorcerer Weekly crew drifted away from us to take pictures of the other members of the guild.

"That took forever," Rogue grumbled about the unwanted attention, his eyes darting towards the leaving Sorcerer Weekly reporters.

Sting shrugged, a laid back smile on his face. "Well, it wasn't as bad as the first time the Dragon Slayer duo became popular," he decided, crossing his arms. I rolled my eyes, smacking his arm playfully.

"Here we go again," I said, sighing. Sting shot me a glare before standing up. He flexed his biceps, grinning.

"So, are we gonna start training?" He asked. I dusted myself off.

"My session first. Then you can figure out who teaches next. Each week, we should take an S-class mission to see how much we've improved." I planned out. Rogue shrugged while Sting just nodded dejectedly. The cats decided to stay, telling us good luck while eating their favorite foods.

We walked towards the forest in Villiane. It was quiet, and no one was here. I sat down and gestured for them to do so. "There is something called Second Origin. Think of it as a container. You have this container of magical energy, right? Once you use it up, you're done for. Researchers have found out that Second Origin is just a second container for magical energy, so you will have more powerful magic and more stamina." I explained.

"Why are telling us this?" Rogue asked.

"Because I have my Second Origin. And we're going to find your!" I said.

Sting's eyes widened. "Blondie, how did you get Second Origin?"

I laughed. "Oh, well, I had a friend who possessed Time Arc magic. She helped me get Second Origin. There was excruciating pain, but I got through it. Actually, I haven't even unlocked my full potential yet. Apparently, people can get it themselves with incredibly hard work. So, that is where I come in. I will help you increase your magical power and stamina."

The lesson went on with me explaining and heightening their magic abilities. I tried to re-teach what Astra had taught me about endurance and power. I had created an immense pressure around them. I had them use their own respective defense spells and block my attacks. I let them try to attack me. I made them dodge my attacks. I forced them to keep an attack going for a long time. We meditated, using Capricorns methods.

By the end of the lesson, both of them were exhausted, and I felt refreshed from the lesson. "Ah, who's turn now?" I asked, leaning back casually with a bright smile. Sting turned to glare at me, panting.

"My...my turn," Rogue said.

Sting started to protest, but Rogue cut him off. "Shut up."

* * *

"LU-SSSHHHEEE!"

I groaned, glaring at the drunk dragon slayer. Rogue chuckled behind his book, smirking lightly. I sent a kick in his direction which he dodged.

Walking to the dragon slayer, I saw Sting walking around in a tipsy manner. I crossed my arms, glaring. "What do you want, baka," I said.

After our training session, Sting had decided to go to the nearby bar and drink. Of course, Rogue realized he would do this so he dragged his partner home. According to him, it was my turn to help out the dumb blonde. So now I was stuck with caring for him.

"You're mean, Lushee! Gimme a hug!" He pleaded, stumbling to me. I took a deep breath before I pulled out my katana and smashed the hilt against the back of his skull, knocking him out.

Cackling, I moved him back to his bed. No more annoying Sting for me.

I walked back into the living room, smiling smugly. Rogue raised an eyebrow at me, looking up from his book while munching on snacks. I plucked a berry out of his bowl and popped into my mouth, relaxing on the couch next to him.

"Lucy, what did you do?" It was Lola who said this, a disapproving look in her green eyes. I smiled innocently at my partner. She was holding a sleeping Frosch while watching TV with Lector and Happy.

"Lushee killed her boyfriend..." Happy said, laughing maniacally. I fumed.

"LUCY KICK!" The blue cat went flying through the ceiling. Rogue sweat-dropped, shaking his head. I waved at him sweetly while Lola smirked.

Rogue stretched, slamming his finished book down. He took the remote and asked, "What do you guys wanna watch?"

"A horror film!" Lola suggested evilly. I discreetly edged away from her in fear. Rogue shrugged.

"No! I-I...how about action?" Lector stuttered, curling up into the sofa. Lola sneered, flying towards Sting's exceed.

"Oh, someone looks scared. Don't worry, you can run to Sting if you get scared." She teased.

"Lola! Be nice. Say sorry!" I reprimanded, shaking my head at her. The exceed smiled cutely at me, nodding innocently.

"Okay, so a horror movie? Frosch is asleep, anyway, so we won't have to worry about scaring him." Rogue said.

Happy flew over to the couch, curling up in my side, and Lola sat in my lap. Lector and Frosch did the same thing to Rogue. I shivered, cuddling closer to the two exceeds. Rogue saw me doing this, and gestured for me to come closer.

I blushed at this before inching towards him. He placed his right arm around me gently, heat radiating off of his body. Lola snuggled closer to him, eyes on the TV. "Which movie?" He asked in a low voice.

I smirked at him. "Evil Dead," I replied. Rogue rolled his eyes when Lola cheered.

"All right. No objections?"

"Wh-what's Evil Dead?" Happy stuttered, leaping into my arms. I gulped, not wanting to explain.

"Uh, nothing bad!" I cried. "It's just very scary and people die," Lola said nonchalantly, smirking at the scared blue exceed. Lector snorted.

"It's probably not that scary!" He said, pressing play on the remote. And, so, the horror movie began.

* * *

**STING**

I woke up to screaming. Lucy's screams, to be exact. Groggily, I stumbled out of bed.

"Guys, what's happening—"

My jaw dropped and I fell flat on the floor at that moment.

Rogue...

Lucy...

Were hugging!

And screaming at the same time, but that was all right. Even Lola, Lucy's really mean exceed, was screaming in horror. I saw Lector jumping up and down, and Happy was squealing in terror. Frosch slept peacefully in Rogue's lap, oblivious to the scene.

"GUYS, SHUT UP!" I flicked the lights on, glaring. Lucy and Rogue jumped away from each other, faces red.

"Er, nothing out of the ordinary here, Sting," Rogue said emotionlessly, making a "go-away" hand motion. Lucy, Lola, Lector, and Happy squeaked in agreement, slamming the TV off.

I raised an eyebrow, stalking towards Lector. "Were you guys watching a horror movie? And why do I have a massive headache? And WHY were you screaming? And why—"

"Heavenly Bind," Lucy replied simply, throwing her hand out. She successfully bound my mouth together so I was unable to talk. I mumbled in protest, trying to tug at the binds before realizing my arms and legs were bound, too.

"Shut up with the questions. See, you got drunk after training, so I was supposed to take care of you. But you got too annoying so I just knocked you out. And that brings us to now." She finished, pulling the bind on my mouth away.

I glared at her for knocking me out. "Bitch," I murmured, but she heard with her dragon slayer hearing.

"The hell did you say?" She asked angrily, a vein popping on her forehead. My eyes widened in sudden realization.

"Blondie! You're not wearing the wig or the mask!"

I ran forwards and fell flat on my face. She burst out laughing and was joined by the others. I groaned pitifully causing Rogue to chuckle.

"All right! Time for dinner and then bed. Tomorrow we wake up at the crack of dawn for training!" Lucy announced. Lector and Frosch decided to join us.

The girl walked into the kitchen, calling out, "The lasagna I made is all done."

I walked in and piled my plate high, my stomach aching from starvation. Wolfing down the entire plate, I got sauce all over the table. "Dumbass!" Lucy cried, smacking the back of my head. I winced, glaring at her.

"What was that for!"

"For spewing crap all of the table. Can't you eat like Rogue?" Both of us turned to my silent partner, who was carefully eating his food. He raised an eyebrow at us.

"That is physically impossible for me," I said, looking at Rogue in disbelief.

Lucy snorted. "I figured. Why do I even expect you to be able to eat in a well-mannered way?" She wondered.

I winked. "Not gonna happen, blondie."

A vein popped on her forehead. "I told you not to call me that!" She yelled, a dark aura surrounding her. Rogue chuckled.

"You're in deep shit, Sting. Better run."

Screaming, I ran away from Lucy who was chasing me with a frying pan.

Oh, crap.

* * *

**Eyy! I hope you enjoyed that. Drop a review, and follow!**

**Also please check out LyingRavenEyes Sticy story: Stay By My Side**

**It's a neat and different Dengeki Daisy type story. **

**QOTD (YUP AFTER ALL THIS TIME, STILL DOING IT):**

**Which power would you want to have?**

**A) celestial magic**

**B) dragon slaying**

**C) Re - equip**

**D) Figure Eyes**

**E) Teleport/Minerva's magic**

**For me, re - equip or Minerva's magic. They're both just so awesome to have. Teleporting...well I would never have to actually get up to get the remote or something. As for re-equip, well, I don't want to move to change clothing. I'm too lazy for that. **

**Well, bye *mwah***

**-flying**


	8. Chapter 8

**Rising Goddess**

**Author's Note**

**IMPORTANT PLEASE READ:**

**I will be writing two separate endings of Nalu and Sticy, both uploaded under this story. Thanks**

**This is a pretty lengthy chapter, unedited, though. Enjoy! Questions, etc? Ask!**

* * *

**Response to reviews: **

**faithful2kh: So do I! ^.^**

**Silveramanda282: I know right? Glad we're on the same page!**

**GeoDaGiraffe (Guest): One, I'm not even sure if you'll continue to read this, but eh. Two, please see the above IMPORTANT PLEASE READ A/N. Thanks for reading. I've got plans for Nalu. He is coming back, so don't worry. **

**BeastlyTick59: Aw, thanks! *Big hug* I'm so glad you like it! XD yep dragon slaying magic would be awesome. Thanks for answering the QOTD!**

**InfernoDragon7: YEA I'M FINALLY BACK! XOXOXOXO You are a really consistent reviewer, and thanks so much. I'm not sure how I can thank you enough. About the Nalu thing, see above A/N. Yep. There will be Nalu and Sticy. And both endings will be pretty lengthy. Wow, we think alike. But then again, I'm sure a lot of people would want re-equip magic since Erza is so amazing. **

**Angie Swan (Guest, TOO LAZY TO LOGIN): First: xD don't worry, I don't even want to login to favorite stories sometimes. Second, it's okay! Just, you know, read all 20,000 something words again. Haha, I'm waiting. I'm so glad you like the story. Trying my best to update faster and stuff. Thanks for dropping a review!**

**AC Awesome (Guest): Honestly, kinda given up hopes on Wrath of Seven. I apologize. That story might be scrapped, just saying. I really am sorry. I made a commitment to it, but I didn't get through. I am just unable to continue. **

* * *

**7**

_**LUCY**_

"And why did you pick this job again?" I asked in an annoyed manner. This was the first time the reformed Dragon Slaying Trio of Sabertooth was going on a mission together. As S-class mages, we chose the hardest one there was.

We were supposed to defeat a dark guild that had captured the princess of a small island and bring her home. The problem was that they had one of Zeref's black magic creations in their hands.

"Don't sweat it, Blondie! We don't need anyone else's help. We'll get through this fine." Sting explained.

A week had passed since Sting had gotten drunk after one training session. The three of us had drastically improved in one week, and now we knew each other better to work as a team. It was like we could read each other's minds.

Along with a couple of new spells, I had a couple of new silver keys that were pretty helpful and useful. Sting and Rogue learned how to activate dragon force faster, and they also got better at becoming unpredictable in battle. Not only that, but I found very powerful but energy-draining dragon slaying spells for them to practice.

"Yes, we will be fine," Rogue agreed confidently.

I rolled my eyes. "Forget it. I can't reason with you guys. Let's take a boat there."

"Or we could use transportation spirit!" Sting suggested hastily. I glared at him, pulling my keys out of his reach.

"No! Talia can't transport us to really far places! And she has to have been there before." I reminded him.

Sting grumbled, "Well, she's useful."

I glared at him, slapping the back of his head. "Shut up, Stingy. Let's go."

Hours later, we will sailing in a small ship towards the island of Kin. My motion sickness started to kick in, but it wasn't as bad as Sting or Rogue's. They kept on throwing up while I felt pretty damn uncomfortable.

I groaned, saying, "Open, gate of the clock! Hologrium!"

My clock spirit appeared around me. I felt better immediately, sighing happily. So, no motion sickness here.

"'This is awesome', she says," my spirit said. Both dragon slayers looked up to glare at me.

"You—BARF—are so lucky—BARF!" Sting growled. I chuckled, teasing them about their condition.

"Are we there—BARF—yet? I don't think—BARF—I can—BARF—handle it!" Rogue moaned, slumping onto the floor with a green face.

I giggled. "Just three more hours, I believe!" I replied, taking out a journal and beginning to write. They groaned, begging me to knock them out.

I hummed silently, thinking. "Now, what should I do now? Hm..."

I had decided to take a break from my first novel. Now, I was creating a new one.

"I got it! Her name will be Tsubame Hajime. She's going to be an angel princess, and she meets this really adorable and quiet demon prince!" I decided, chattering excitedly to myself. Meanwhile, my clock spirit was relaying this to Sting and Rogue. Frosch and Lector stared at me in a weirded out way. Lola and Happy were playing chess, and Lola was beating the blue exceed.

I started to scratch my ideas down on my notebook, writing furiously. "Ah-ha! And it turns out Tsubame's angelic parents are trying to kill her." I continued, nodding enthusiastically to myself.

"We're here! I see the island! We're finally here!" Sting screamed hysterically, grinning. I peeked out of the clock spirit. "Oh, right. Yes, we are here."

Stepping out of the spirit, I thanked him. He disappeared.

"Alright! We're starting our new adventure as a new team!" I cried, cheering. I fixed my mask and wig, grinning. It was pretty warm in the area, so I was wearing a bikini top and shorts under my cape.

We waited as the boat slowed to a stop at the dock. Quickly tying it to a post, we got off of the boat and walked towards the man who owned the boating yard. The exceeds flew above us, marvelling at the island. "We're here to help the king of this island. We're the mages from Sabertooth. Where can we see the king?" I asked.

The man's eyes lit up. "Thank you so much! The entire kingdom of Kin is worried about Princess Ryoko Kin ever since she was captured a week ago." He said.

I smiled at him, about to say something, when Sting interrupted me. "Cut the crap. Where is the king? We're on a tight schedule here, got it?" He growled at the man.

I gaped at him. Rogue just stared at his partner impassively, sighing. "Sting! How rude of you!"

Turning to the man, I excused Sting's behavior. "It's all right. The king's castle is in the most private part of the island. It overlooks a huge cliff. Go past these gates. I'm sure anyone can tell you how to get there." He explained.

I nodded my thanks and walked through the gates into the city of Kin. People were dancing in the square, painting mosaics of their beloved princess on the walls. One girl was painting in the center of the square, busily creating a larger-than-life painting of the supposed princess. It was so realistic and detailed, I was surprised to see it wasn't a real image of the princess.

In this painting, the princess was kneeling before a hurt bird, her hands carefully cupped around it. Her dark brown hair spilled from its long braid, and a cute and caring smile played on her lips. She couldn't have been older than fourteen; she looked so young and beautiful.

"That's her?" Sting asked in disbelief. I raised an eyebrow at him questioningly.

"Yeah? Why can't it be her?"

"I thought the princess Rya something or other would be older," Sting admitted, staring at the painting. Rogue shrugged.

"Maybe she is," he said.

We walked towards the direction of a tall, grand building with towers. It was large, slightly bigger than my former mansion. Everywhere we went, we saw people hoping that the princess would come soon. I wondered what this girl had done to have everyone love her so much.

We finally arrived at the entrance of the palace guarded by gigantic silver gates. Two guards stopped us, saying, "Halt!"

I shot a look at Sting that read "let me handle this". He snorted and gave me a dismissing wave.

Shooting my most disarming smile at the guards, I said, "Hello, I am Lily Ashley, celestial dragon slayer and stellar spirit mage of the guild Sabertooth. These are my companions Rogue Cheney, Sting Eucliffe, Frosch, Lector, Happy, and my exceed Lola. We were requested on a job to rescue Princess Ryoko Kin by the king."

The guards examined our guild marks before letting us in. "Knock on the doors. Someone will lead you to the king."

We walked through the palace gardens and towards the entrance of the palace. Knocking, Rogue stood at the front of the steps and waited patiently in front of us.

A servant opened the doors and said, "We've been expecting you. Please follow me."

Arriving at a large, ornately-carved door, the servant pushed it open for us. He bowed before the king before slinking out and shutting the doors.

I bowed politely before the king. Rogue and the exceeds followed my lead, but Sting was too busy fixing his vest. "Sting!" I hissed in anger.

"Eh?"

The king chuckled, smiling at Sting. "Ah, you must be the feared Dragon Slayer trio," he said.

"Rogue Cheney, shadow dragon slayer. Part of the original dragon slaying team, right? Your exceed is Frosch." The king said, glancing at Rogue.

Rogue swept his cape back elegantly and bowed. "At your service, my lord," he announced. The king nodded, grinning.

"Arise. Please, no formalities. It makes me feel quite odd." The king addressed Rogue.

At this, Sting cried impatiently, "Hey, King! We have to do this job for you so let's get it over with. I'm pretty sure you're damn ready to get your daughter back, yeah?"

I straightened. "Heavenly Bind!" I shouted, preventing him from talking anymore. Light filtered and turned solid.

"Mm!" He yelled in protest. I giggled.

"Please excuse Stingy. He's quite annoying. Anyways, can you update us on the mission? He's right in one way; we would like to help you get your daughter back as soon as possible." I said.

The king nodded, leaning forwards from his throne. "You see, my daughter Ryoko has been kidnapped by a dark guild of the name 'Dark Alchemist'. She has been kidnapped to be used as a royal sacrifice to Zeref in hopes of summoning him. No matter how much money we offer to the guild, the master won't take it. I've tried sending soldiers, but all of them end up killed by Zeref's demon. They call it the 'Dark One's Doll', apparently."

I nodded, brow furrowed. Dark Alchemist...where had I heard that name?

That was when I realized. My heart stopped.

Dark Alchemist's master Zen. Zen had killed my best friend. Zen.

_/Flashback/_

_"Oi, who name's themselves Zen? It sounds absolutely ridiculous like the ice bastard's name." He snorted, his hands behind his head._

_Gray glared. "What did you call me, slanty-eyed bastard?"_

_"Are you going deaf? I called you an ice bastard!"_

_Erza screamed at them to stop their fight while I laughed._

_/end/_

Fury built up in my body and came roaring to the surface. I would kill him. I would kill him and avenge my best friend. Zen would never see the light of day again. He didn't deserve to live after killing someone so incredible.

I laughed darkly to myself. Zen would die by my hand. I would rip him to pieces and spill his blood over the fire dragon slayer's grave. Then he would be able to rest peacefully.

"I will handle Zen," I said lowly, studying my whip. There was no way I would let him escape from under my nose. I'd searched for him all these years, and now, I finally found him! This was purely good luck for me.

"Lily, are you okay?" Sting asked worriedly. I laughed in a crazy manner, relishing in my dreams of how I would kill him."Oh, I'm perfectly fine. I shall get my revenge on the dark alchemist once and for all." I agreed, polishing my blade.

"This group is very dangerous. Don't you think we'll need more people?" Rogue asked. I considered bringing Erza and Gray. They would be of much help. I shook my head. No, this was for me to resolve.

"No. You can call Orga, Rufus, and Minerva. I think we'll be fine." I replied. After all, when facing a powerful dark guild such as Dark Alchemist, we would probably need more people just to be on the safe side.

Rogue took a moment before taking out his lacrima. "We should ask them. You should call your brother." Rogue said.

I glanced at him in confusion before it dawned on me. "Laxus?" I asked. Rogue nodded.

"And I know you don't want to call your...nakama," Rogue said. I gulped. He knew. He knew that I wanted to avenge my dead best friend.

"If we get the Thunder God Tribe, we don't need to bother Orga, Minerva, and Rufus," I said. Rogue hesitated.

"Tch, we don't need any help! How bad is this guild anyway?" Sting asked.

The king nodded. "I agree. I don't believe the guild is powerful as you believe." He said.

I stared at both of them. "Three years ago, I was a former Fairy Tail mage. Fairy Tail's strongest team consisting of five people including myself went on a job to fight Dark Alchemist. Dark Alchemist's master Zen killed my best friend, the fire dragon slayer. And that was after the Grand Magic Games. You remember, don't you? My best friend defeated you two by himself. Dark Alchemist is full of five main core members. Three years ago, I barely escaped with my life with Erza, Gray, and Wendy." I explained.

Silence filled the throne room as the full extent of Dark Alchemist's power sunk in. Even Erza, the legendary Titania of Fairy Tail, hadn't been able to defeat them. However, I didn't tell them everything. _He _had made his last stand in order to allow us to escape. And when we did try to go back to help...Dark Alchemist was gone and so was he.

"That's it, we should call Minerva, Rufus, and Orga. And you should call just Laxus." Rogue decided. I sighed.

"Yeah, all right. With this power team, we'll defeat the demon and the five core members. I'll handle Zen." I said, taking out my lacrima from my backpack.

The king paused. "One more thing. The soldiers believe that Dark Alchemist has teamed up with another guild called Raven Tail."

My jaw dropped. "The ravens, too? Laxus will definitely be pissed." I grumbled, shaking my head.

I walked silently forwards and called up Laxus through my lacrima. Smiling grimly, I watched as his image appeared. He was in the middle of listening to music and working out.

"Laxus! Laxus!" I screamed at him.

He was too busy and caught up in his work-out.

"NII-CHAN AND ARROGANT BASTARD OF THE THUNDER GOD TRIBE!" I yelled at the top of my lungs. Laxus opened his eyes in a pissed-off manner.

"Eh? You again?" He asked, turning the music off.

I stuck my tongue out at him. "Baka. Listen, we need help over here. We got this job and we're battling two dark guilds to save a princess. They're trying to resurrect Zeref. Island of Kin. Can you help?"

Laxus mused. "What's in it for me?"

I glared darkly at him. "Raven Tail is part of this," I said. He stood up immediately and pulled his cloak on. "I'm coming. I might call you again, so hang on."

Then his image disappeared.

"Laxus is in," I announced.

Rogue nodded. "So are Rufus, Minerva, and Orga. They're on their way. Meanwhile, we've got to figure out a plan. Also, what else do you remember from fighting Dark Alchemist?"

Sting sighed. "Do we really gave to bring everyone into this? I hate waiting around." He said.

Rogue and I both glared sharply at him. He raised his hands in defeat.

I closed my eyes, thinking. "Just a moment," I breathed.

Images flowed through my mind as I called upon old memories. I nodded, sighing. "The first core member I recall. Rin Baba, molding magic mage. Rufus can defeat him quite easily. Tall-ish, brown hair, violet eyes. Gray defeated him before. I'm not sure what that battle was like. He is still powerful, though."

I hummed, seeing Rin in my memories.

"Next is Mirai the demon gatherer. She has five different demons that she summons. I defeated her back then. That reminds me. Gemi and Mini have touched Rin and Mirai before so they can change into them. Mirai's most powerful demon is Elysium Former. I had to call out Gemini and Loke to defeat it. I don't think she will be a problem, though. Orga can handle her; her demons hate lightning, I believe. She has green hair and turquoise eyes." I said.

"Following Mirai are the twins, Griffin and Serpentine. Fire and water mages, but their magic abilities are charged with dark magic Erza defeated the two, but she almost died. Very powerful, especially when fighting together. Minerva can face off with them and Rogue can help. The twin girl Griffin has red hair and amber eyes. The boy Serpentine has black hair and blue eyes."

"Then, the strongest core member. I suppose Sting and Laxus should work together. This one is the darkest, so their magics will correspond well to her defeat. His name is Nikolai. He was once a slave for the Tower of Heaven experiment. He is the Light God Slayer, but he also specializes in reversal magic. So, just like Midnight from Oracion Seis." I paused.

"He has a lacrima in him," I said slowly.

"And, finally, Zen. He will be mine to handle, and none of you will interfere. Even if my life is on the line. Now, when Laxus and the others arrive, relay the information to him. I'll summon Gemini and she'll transform into some of the Dark Alchemist members. Raven Tail is good. We'll defeat them easily. The demon. We'll see about that demon..."

I sighed, opening Crux's gate. "What can you tell me about Dark One's Doll?" I asked.

Crux fell asleep.

Sting sweat dropped. "Wh-what? He fell asleep!"

I rolled my eyes. "It's just Crux's way of researching!"

Crux opened his eyes. "It is one of Zeref's demons. One of the minor ones like Lullaby." He told me.

I nodded. "Thank you, Crux. Close gate!"

He disappeared.

I straightened. "I'll be back later. Don't bother finding me or you're dead."

I tilted my head, thinking. "You can send Laxus my way, though. I'll be somewhere outside!" I waved, walking out. The others conversed in the throne room, trying to figure out their plans.

Sighing, I walked out near the cliff and looked over the ocean that crashed upon the rocks. I sat down and started to meditate.

"Hey, Lucy."

I smiled at his familiar voice but kept my eyes closed. "Care to join me?" I asked quietly.

"Already ahead of you," he replied as he sat down besides me.

Magic energy built up slower and slower around me. I felt all of my bottled up energy lifting off of me. "Thank you for coming, Loke," I thanked my friend softly.  
He chuckled. "No problem. You've gotten a lot stronger. I'm proud of you." He said.

His laughter died away and he turned serious. "Was Crux right? You're planning on fighting one of Zeref's demons?" He asked in a worried way.

I nodded grimly. "And two dark guilds...along with _his_ killer," I chimed in.

Loke sighed besides me. "Lucy, can you do this? I mean, really. If Natsu-san couldn't defeat him, can you?" he asked anxiously.

Silence filled between us before I answered confidently, "Trust me, Loke. He was strong but really stupid and dense. I am strong and smarter than he was. Loke, sometimes wisdom bows down to strength. Even you know this."

Loke hesitated before agreeing. "All right. But if you fail, don't worry. I'll always be there for you. And please, don't get too confident in yourself. That could be your downfall since this guy is crazy strong."

I nodded. "I'm watching myself, Loke. You needn't worry. I've gauged my own strength and his. In the end, I will win this. It may even come to death, but I will win this. And I know you'll be there for me in the end." I said, smiling.

Loke leaned over and hugged me. "Good luck, Lucy."

And he disappeared.

Breathing in, the magic pressure around me increased more and more. As I increased my own magic, I planned out what I would do. From my last encounter and research I had done on him, he was a very skilled and dangerous mage. Charged with power and brains, Zen was supposed to be an apprentice of Zeref's last apprentice.

I swallowed the lump in my throat. Was I ready to fight Zen? I shook my head, squashing down my insecurity. I had to. This could be the last time I would ever encounter Zen. I had to defeat him, and there were no exceptions.

It was nightfall when I decided to return to the palace. I was refreshed from heightening my magic power. I was stronger.

"Where have they gone?" I asked the servant.

"Oh, they're in the dining room. They've just started. The others have arrived too, miss." A servant replied, bowing. She led me to the dining room where all eyes turned to me.

I coughed uncomfortably, knowing my magic power was probably unnaturally high for me.

"Er, hey, guys," I said.

Laxus snapped out of it first, giving me a smirk. "Hey, kid. You're finally here. Saved ya a spot." He said.

I snorted while heading towards him. "Thanks, stupid," I replied, taking my spot while bowing before the king.

"Really where did you go?" Laxus asked anxiously, nudging me. I rolled my eyes, sighing.

"I was outside," I replied. Minerva was sitting across from me, looking at me anxiously.

"Are you all right, Lily-chan?" She whispered softly. I sent her a smile and nodded. From the corner of my eye, I saw Laxus give her a dark glare and mutter, "Like you would care."

Minerva stiffened. "Uh, Lily's brother, why do you hate me so much?" She asked directly.

Laxus sneered at her, folding his arms and dropping his spoon in his soup. Rage flashed through his eyes as he stared down at Minerva, as if he was trying to hold back from killing her. "I think you know, MIN-CHAN," he responded mockingly, smirking, "I'm a mage of Fairy Tail. You very well know the reason."

"Laxus, stop!" I snarled, elbowing him in the ribs. Laxus raised an eyebrow.

"I'm right. You know I am. Even she knows I am. What did she do to Lucy, eh? Don't you remember?" Laxus said.

I glared at him. "Laxus, I'm warning you—"

"No, he's right," Minerva murmured, tears in her eyes. Her face was lowered towards the table in shame. Her voice broke as she sobbed into her palms. The entire atmosphere in the dining room became heavy and dark.

"Minerva, don't. Just don't. Laxus is being a jerk, ignore him." I assured, shooting Laxus another glare. He returned my glare with a look of impassiveness.

"No, I was evil. I purposefully hurt another girl. I'm ashamed of myself. I...I don't deserve to be in your presence, Laxus-sama, Lily-chan. I'm sorry." She stood up, shaking, and rushed out of the room.

"Minerva!" I yelled, standing up. Rufus stopped me.

"The lady needs time to unwind. Don't bother her, Lily-san." He said.

Glaring, I sat back down. "Laxus, she's my friend. I expected you to be a little more forgiving. How could you do that to Minerva? She's been nothing but kind to you. People change. You especially should know that. Don't you remember the pain you caused everyone?" I growled. It was a dirty trick, throwing his past back at him. I knew he had tried his best to completely forget the Fantasia Parade incident.

Laxus stood up. "I'm going to go eat in my room," he grumbled before walking out with his plate. A servant tried to stop him, but Laxus completely ignored him.

"Sir, please don't—"

The door slammed shut.

"Well, then," the king said, standing up.

"I have business to attend to. I hope you enjoy the rest of your meal." He said courteously before leaving, too.

That left Frosch, Lector, Lola,Happy, Rogue, Sting, Orga, Rufus, and me. Rogue continued to eat silently while Rufus and Orga were just sitting there. Sting shoved food down his throat. I ate my salad, my manners kicking in.

"Well, that was awkward," Orga said sheepishly, interrupting the silence. Rogue and Rufus agreed while Sting turned to me.

"What's up with you? You've been acting all serious. That's not you." Sting said.

I set my fork down. "I'm okay, Sting. Don't worry about me." I turned away.

Rogue said, "Sting is right. What's wrong?"

"Nothing's wrong with her! Stop bothering her and let her mull over things. Isn't that right, Lily?" Lola said, landing next to me. I smiled at her gratefully when she winked at me.

"Yeah," I agreed.

I stood up. "I'm going to my room or whatever. We'll figure out a plan tomorrow and maybe attack them, too." I said.

A servant led me, Happy, and Lola to my room. I shifted my backpack on my shoulders and listened to Lola and Happy chatter about random things.

"Here is your room, madam," she said, bowing humbly.

"Please, call me Lily Ashley," I said, smiling at her. The girl merely nodded back at me.

"Very well, Ashley-san. I hope you enjoy your stay as the king's guest." She started to leave after saying this but she paused.

"Ashley-san, will you be able to rescue the princess?" She asked softly.

I studied her for a moment before replying. "I know I can rescue her. I promise that as a full S-class mage of the guild Sabertooth." Then I placed my fist over my heart and bowed solemnly.

The girl cried, landing on her knees and bowing. "Thank you, thank you, thank you! I-I...the people of Kin will never be able to thank you enough..."

I helped her up. "Thank me when the job is completed and the princess is safe. Now, please leave."

The servant nodded and scurried away. I entered our room and sighed, collapsing onto my bed. "Are you worried about tomorrow, Lucy?" Happy asked.

"You'll finally get revenge. You should be anticipating tomorrow," Lola retorted.

I quietly took out my clothes and helped Lola and Happy onto my bed. "I'm gonna take a quick shower. I need to talk to Laxus later." I said.

Showering, I thought about everything that had happened. This was the only thing I could do for HIM in return.

I slipped into my night clothes and wrapped myself in my cloak before walking out. "I'll be back soon," I called to them. Lola and Happy nodded.

Asking one of the servants where Laxus was, I was directed into his room. He didn't open up, so I decided to go in. He wasn't there; he was on his balcony drinking booze.

"You idiot," I growled before walking to him. I shut the door behind us.

"Hey, kid," he said, staring at the stars and nodding his head to the beat of a song from his headphones.

"Laxus, thanks for coming. What did you tell Freed, Bixlow, and Evergreen?" I asked.

Laxus shrugged. "I told master you needed help, and Master just told them that I was on a solo mission. Anyways, no problem."

We stared at the stars for awhile before I finally spoke.

"Laxus, I'm seriously thankful that you came. After my best friend died, I haven't really had anyone besides Happy that truly understands what it's like to lose...him. You're like my older brother, and it makes me happy that someone is there for me. But, seriously. Why did you hurt Minerva like that?" I asked.

Laxus gripped the railing, leaning forwards. "I'm sorry about that. Really, I am. But I don't think it's right that you would forgive her just like that." He explained.

I sighed, laying a hand on his. "Baka, there's a reason why. She apologized about it before, even if she didn't know I was really Lucy. She really has changed. My dragon Astra told me that it's not good to hold a grudge. She was right."

Laxus stiffened.

"Whatever, Lucy," he grunted.

I wanted a clear answer from him. I wasn't right of him to do this. "Laxus, Fairy Tail forgave you, didn't we? Even if you hurt everyone in the guild. We accept you now. We disregarded the past. So can you at least apologize to her? Just for this mission, you can be nice to her. Please. I'm begging you." I said.

Laxus was quiet for a moment.

"All right. For you." He finally relented, leaving the room. I smiled in delight.

I teleported out of the room onto Minerva's balcony, pressing my ear to the window.

"...about dinner. Really, I am," I heard Laxus say.

"It's okay, Laxus-sama. I understand why since you were a friend of Lucy's. Although I was slightly surprised about your reaction. I never thought you were close to her." Minerva said cautiously.

"I was very close to her. I AM very close to her. You know Lily? Yeah, you've never seen her without her mask. She is Lucy. You're lucky she's forgiven you so quickly." Laxus said.

I was about to slam the balcony door open when I snorted in disbelief. Minerva would never believe him.

"I knew it."

Her response totally threw me off guard.

WHAT?

"When she summoned her spirits, they wouldn't have been so willing to help her if she wasn't Lucy. I mean, even if Lucy really did give them to her, the spirits still would be reluctant to listen to her commands. Also, she kept dropping these little hints off. Fairy Tail, which Rogue told me about. Yukino. She cared for Yukino, and I knew that Yukino only met Team Natsu. She also wanted to avenge Natsu apparently, according to Sting and Rogue. All signs said she was truly Lucy Heartfilia." Minerva explained.

I sighed. Was I really that easy to read?

I teleported out of the balcony, not even waiting for Laxus's response. Jumping into bed, I said, "Laxus apologized to Minerva. I heard their conversation. Minerva knows I'm really Lucy."

"Really? That's interesting. It means Minerva is a lot more observant and smarter than we think." Lola said, nodding. Happy curled up into my side, already sleeping.

"I suppose," I replied.

Lola sighed. "Are you ready for tomorrow?" She asked. I shrugged.

"Should I act like I know? Or should I just pretend nothing happened?" I asked the exceed. She was wise and intuitive. That was why I asked her about my problems. Unlike Happy, she understood how to simply save huge issues.

"Just ignore it if they don't act any different. You might want to confront Laxus about this, but that's only if you're ready to reveal the fact you spied on them." Lola advised.

I nodded. "Good night, Lola."

"Good night, Lucy-chan."

* * *

**QOTD: **

**Who's your favorite female character in Fairy Tail?**

**a. Lucy **

**b. Erza**

**c. Wendy**

**d. Mirajane**

**Honestly...I've got mixed responses for this one. All of them. **

**Lucy: She's ship-worthy and beautiful and hard-working. And her magic is cool. It seems weak, and I hope it develops more. She's got spunk. I just love her. **

**Erza: Well, duh. Beautiful, hard-working, powerful, innocent. (Especially around Jellal) Need I say more?**

**Wendy: SO KAWAII AND INNOCENT AND UNDERSTANDING AND JUST AN ALL AROUND WONDERFUL PERSON.**

**Mirajane: Damnit, Mira can do everything except draw. She's awesome. **

**BYESSS**

**-FLYING**


	9. Chapter 9

**Rising Goddess**

**Author's Note**

**WOOT! Readers of this story must be pretty happy now...third chapter in a row! Okay, so...sorry everyone else. I've got writer's block for my other stories. Gimme a moment to collect my thoughts. The magic will start during winter break. *Cough* two weeks from now**

**I AM SOMEONE'S SENPAI! *DANCING***

**BAM PREPARE FOR BADASS-NESS. IDK IT'S KINDA CRAPPY! I feel like I made it...not hard enough for Lucy. Thanks for the reviews/follows xoxoxo**

**GMG IS COMING SOON! PLEASE WAIT LIKE TWO CHAPTERS. **

**NATSUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU**

**Okay, enjoy.**

* * *

**8**

_**Lucy**_

We had a plan.

It was a plan that Fairy Tail's first master Mavis Vermilion would approve of. Based off of Gemini's analysis, we knew what their main attacks and weaknesses were. Using this to our advantage, we were able to formulate a plan in our advantage.

"Okay, let's go over this again. We'll attack the demons and Raven Tail as two separate groups. Group A consists of Minerva, Orga, and Rufus, and you guys will kill the demon. Should be fairly easy since Dark One's Doll is as powerful as Lullaby, and Natsu, Gray, and Erza defeated Lullaby. The rest of us will defeat Raven Tail and I'll ship them off to the Magic Council. Rufus will handle Rin. Most likely, he will use his distance attack, Air Wave. Rufus can memorize and wipe it out. Then, he can use Minerva's spell. Then, Mirai, who will be handled by Orga. Orga will destroy her demons. Naturaly, summoners are weak of body, so that'll be easy." I said.

Laxus continued, "Minerva and Rogue will handle the twins. They're cocky and annoying, so they're gonna toy with you at first. Rogue can approach them alone, and Minerva will be hidden in the wings, waiting. When Rogue catches them off guard, Minerva will use a double attack and finish them off. If anything goes wrong, Minerva will act as support. Lastly, there's that light god slayer. Me and Sting. We already know what's up there. We'll use a unison raid on him so he won't be able to eat it. He'll try using his light cannon attack first since it's supposed to take out two people at once."

"They'll move out of the way and Laxus will activate lightning shield. Yeah, that's pretty much it. And Lily handles Zen." Rogue finished.

All eyes turned to me. Zen was the only one I wasn't able to summon with Gemini since they had never seen him.

"I'll kill him." I said darkly.

The others nervously shifted away from me, worried.

"Okay! Let's go everyone!" Sting yelled, storming out of the palace.

"YEAH!"

We walked through the islands. All around us, people whispered.

"Are those the mages of Sabertooth?"

"Why is Fairy Tail's Laxus there?"

"They're gonna save the princess!"

Laxus grumbled, "They're so naive." I chuckled, slapping him.

"At some point in all of our lives, we were like that," I answered truthfully. He shrugged, knowing I was right.

We went to the volcanic and mountain range that the king said Dark Alchemist's base was. All of us lowered our magic energy so we wouldn't be as noticed immediately. As we got closer and closer, we heard the telltale roar of Zeref's dark creation.

"Ready, set, go! Group A, on the run!" Minerva commanded. At the speed of light, all three launched themselves at the demon and began to endlessly attack the demon. Dark One's Doll slashed at them, trying to herd them away.

"Group B, let's go," I said. We weaved in and out of trees, reaching their base. Suddenly, a girl with straight violet hair and piercing grey eyes appeared before us with a serious and grim face.

"Trespassers are not allowed," she said in a monotone voice. I blinked, surprised that I hadn't sensed her coming. Did she have some special ability to mask her presence?

Drawing my whip in one hand and Rogue's katana in another, I said, "Go on, guys. I'll catch up to you later."

The rest of them ran off, and the girl tried to stop them. I ferociously slashed my whip out at her and wrapped it around her midsection, directing her attention from them. She accepted it, not a noise coming out. "Your opponent is me! Don't you dare even _look_ at them." I snarled, launching into a series of complex movements.

Her double-edged blade met mine, and we fought. After one especially powerful parry, both of us were thrown backwards. I skidded to a stop, flipping onto my heels.

"Your swordsmanship is not bad, but it is your whip-wielding that is quite exceptional" the girl said respectfully.

I smirked, nodding. "You're not bad, as well."

She straightened, her violet hair flowing behind her. "Since you are a worthy opponent, I will unleash my true magic abilities. My name is Takami." She said.

I raised an eyebrow. "Is that so? Then I guess I should up my game, too. My name is Lily. I hope you remember that name." I agreed. No concentration was needed as I called upon my celestial powers. After so much practice, this was routine.

"Heavenly starlight aura," I whispered. Golden light spread from my body and disappeared.

"Plant fusion-make," Takami said. The plants around us started to twist and turn. Then, all of them focused on me. I called out, "Complete celestial disappearance!"

The plants were turned into ashes. Takami watched this with no change in emotion. I turned to her. "Celestial dragon's roar!" Piercing light shot from my mouth and reached Takami.

"Plant shield," she said confidently. I shook my head, pitying the girl. When I let out an attack of that intensity, she would be down.

I shot forwards, ready to attack. But she wasn't there anymore. Eyebrows furrowed, I realized the plants had been a distraction, and her other power must be masking her presence and some kind of invisibility. I opened all of my dragon senses. She was coming from...

"Hi-yah!"

Her foot flew into my side. I grappled with her, surprised with her strength. She pushed me back, delivering a swift upper-cut. Before she could disappear again, I dodged and said, "Molding magic: Air wave."

The air particles moved and solidified. The unseen force caused her to go crashing into the trees. I grinned. I'd gotten her this time.

However, the invisible girl appeared once again, five yards away from me. "Plant-"

I swung my whip forwards, trapping her. "Celestial slicer!" After this move, she was very much beaten down. I frowned as she staggered forwards. _Time to finish this. _

"Molding magic: Rock giants."

She didn't move again. I took a breath, thinking. My magic energy was depleted to seven-eighths.

I meditated, regaining magic energy. After I knew I was ready, I ran forwards, ready for the onslaught of enemies.

"Lily! Nice to see you've joined us!" Sting shouted as he wiped out more people. I laughed, agreeing as I slammed two people together.

"Yep, sorry. Everyone, up!" I screamed.

Confused, Raven Tail's guild members stayed on the ground while my comrades leaped into the air.

"COSMIC BOOM, MULTIPLE!" I yelled, slamming my palms to the ground. A massive wave of light engulfed the enemy. I heard cries of pain as almost half of them received massive injuries in sensitive places. I'd practiced this move multiple times to ensure I didn't miss. I could tell that the ones left, who were in the center, were Raven Tail's four other core members.

"I call the one that looks like Laxus!" Sting said with a smirk as he pointed at a tall blonde guy. A vein popped on Laxus's forehead.

"What did you say, brat?" Laxus glared at Sting, electricity cackling around him.

"Are you deaf? I said—"

"SHUT UP BEFORE I MURDER YOU!" Rogue and I yelled at the same time. I snickered at Raven Tail's perturbed expressions.

"Everyone, pick a person to fight. Let's go!" Rogue commanded. He jumped at a red-haired guy with his katana drawn. Laxus fought his father, Ivan. I was wondering how he got out of jail. Sting kicked the blonde guy in the gut.

The last person, a man with black hair, walked forwards. I had to admit he was handsome with a chiseled jaw and mysterious and dark eyes. He looked like some sort of dark angel. I lashed my whip out.

"Prepare to be defeated," I said.

He gave me a charming smile. "Please, why would a beautiful woman such as yourself have such men as your company? Join me, I insist." He said in a smooth voice.

There was a small and weak force that wanted me to do as he said. Realizing this, I grinned in annoyance. "You sick bastard, I'm not going to fall for that simple and OUTLAWED love charm. Besides, you can't even see my face." I said.

He stuttered, surprised. "Wh-what? B-but..."

I lunged forwards and punched him hard in the face. Swinging my whip, I wrapped it around him and launched him forwards into a wall. Again, I threw back and forth.

"Charm magic: Magic cancellation!" He yelled, stopping me. I felt my magic drain by almost half and growled. After all that hard work to get it back to full!

"Do I have to do this the old-fashioned way?" I asked, dropping my useless whip into my belt. I flipped onto my feet and gained speed, running towards him with my katana. As I drew closer, I swung it with incredible speed. He fell backwards with me next to him. Tossing him into the air with my whip, I watched as he smashed into the earth. Gasping for breath, he slowly lost consciousness.

I looked around, seeing that Rogue and Sting just finished with their enemies. Laxus landed a final attack on his father.

"I think that's it," I groaned. Talia, my celestial spirit, teleported all of Raven Tail's unconscious members to the magic council. Minerva had cast a long-lasting binding spell on them. I left them at the doors of the magic council, knocking before fleeing.

"Great! The demon's down and so is Raven Tail." Sting said, cheering.

Yawning, I sat on the floor meditating. My magic energy was increasing again. The others also started to regain energy. Everyone was fine; no one had any bruises or scars.

I took a deep breath, dusting myself off.

"You people ready to do this?"

All of us exchanged looks and stared at the base.

"I was BORN ready," Minerva smirked before kicking the door open.

No one was in the room. I took a deep breath. "Everyone remembers the plan, right? Everyone knows where their opponent is? Okay, this plan is a go!" I said.

I thought for a moment. If the others were in those rooms, where could Zen be?

I jumped up onto one of the beams on the ceiling, wondering if he would show himself. All of a sudden, a white-haired figure appeared in the room. He smirked, his blue eyes darkening.  
My eyes narrowed, and memories of Zen flashed through my mind. In a fit of rage, I almost leaped off to attack him. Quenching my rage, I took a deep breath.

"Celestial drain," I muttered, focusing on Zen. I could feel the connection created, and now I could tell that he was losing power slowly. I tilted my head. Suddenly, the connection was severed and I was attacked.

I gasped on flipped to the right. Zen smirked at me. "What are you doing here, girl?" He asked.

Glaring, I snorted. "I'm here to kill you," I replied murderously.

Zen chuckled, beckoning me. "You're going to have to do a lot better than that to kill me," he said confidently.

I grinned. "Oh, I've defeated plenty of people. You're just another victim on my list."

The man glared at me angrily. "Black tidal wave," he said, making a quick motion with two fingers. A massive onslaught of waves made of dark magic came upon me.

"Starlight shield," I said, creating a glowing orb around me. The black waves disappeared.

Zen grinned. "I know you. You're that weak Fairy Tail mage who came here with those three other mages. Came to avenge your boyfriend, eh?"

I clenched my fists, shaking in anger. "You..."

"CELESTIAL DRAGON'S ROAR!" I screamed. Zen merely dodged, but I had already guessed which direction he would land.

"Fist of the celestial dragon!"

Zen flew backwards. Steadily, he stood back up. "Nice. I may have underestimated you, BLONDIE," he said mockingly.

I gritted my teeth.

"Dark redemption!" He cried, creating a large double-layered purple magic circle.

Black ghosts split from the circle, preparing to come at me. "Celestial royal wall," I commanded. The ghosts collided with the wall, but some of them went through.

"Heavenly starlight justice," I shouted, letting light shine all around me. The spirits shrieked in protest and vanished upon contact with the light.

Bringing the wall down, I attacked Zen. "Celestial dragon's wing slash!"

He shot his own attack at me which blew us backwards. I started to get up. Through the dust, he threw a punch at me. I teleported behind him and lashed my whip out, but he just through my into the wall. I coughed, angered.

"Cronos time blank," he said, whipping his hand back and forth in a symbol. I was unable to move.

"Dark devil's roar!" He shouted. I gaped in surprise, feeling frustrated. Devil slayer? I had never heard of one. Just as it was about to hit me, I flew in another direction and successfully dodged the attack.

"Loke!" I cried in relief, seeing my spirit carrying me. He winked.

"You've done well so far. Would you like my help?" He asked.

I shook my head. "Please go back. I'm fine. Don't worry about me. Thanks, though." He nodded and obeyed my command.

"Heavenly starlight aura!" I shouted. Free from my previous position, I jumped forwards faster than ever. He was able to keep up with me in hand to hand combat, but I landed more blows on him.

"Enough! Dark One's Doll: Rebirth," he said. My brow furrowed. Seriously? Now he could bring back demons? Was this truly possible?

The ground behind me started to rumble. "No, this can't be..." I thought, seeing the demon appear. I would have to have my spirits deal with this. "Star lock," I said, trapping Zen from further attacking me.

"Open! Capricorn, Virgo, Gemini!" I said, summoning all three of my spirits. They appeared before me, bowing.

"Hello, Hime," Virgo and Capricorn chorused together. "Hey, princess!" Gemi and Mina squeaked, flying around each other.

I pointed at the demon behind us that was reforming. "Gemini, turn into me. Can you guys handle the demon here?" I asked. They bowed.

"Of course, Master." All three launched themselves at the monster, attacking with their combined strength. I turned my attention to Zen who was already coming out of my star lock spell.

He shook his head, smiling. "Ah, you're such a stubborn girl. I was expecting you to destroy the monster yourself. But, you still insist on fighting me, hm?" He said, walking forwards.

I snarled, "I don't need to listen to you, asshole." I executed two quick kicks to his side and pulled about my katana and whip.

He dodged the kicks while a shadow blade formed in his hands. "Ah, ah, ah. You're such a naughty girl," he said disapprovingly. Swinging his sword, he leaped forwards agilely. I parried the attack and crouched down, tossing the whip at his feet. He flipped backwards while throwing a dagger at me. I teleported behind him and kicked him away. He dodged. _What the?_

My eyes widened in horror. He had dodged!

"Shadow knights," he commanded. Eight knights made of dark energy appeared, attacking me with axes.

"Cosmic boom, multiple," I countered, slamming my palms to the ground and watching the magic circle appear. Five were hit head-on. I cursed, glaring at the last three.

"Lightning shooting stars, times four," I cast a new spell. Shooting stars were tracking spells that didn't stop until they hit the target or were destroyed. Three hit the knights, but Zen destroyed the last one meant for him.

"That should've kept you busier for longer," he said thoughtfully. Shrugging, he smirked.

"Oh, well. Dark mantis," he said. I dodged the dark wave, flipping forwards while yelling, "Celestial dragon's roar!"

"Dark devil's roar!" he shouted. When the magic met, there was a large explosion.

I slammed into the concrete wall behind me and went through, gasping. Squinting, I tried to make things out from the dust. I felt so weak from using that much magic power. The remade Dark One's Doll was gone, and so were my celestial spirits.

Suddenly, I was punched in the stomach and kicked. Standing, I went into fighting position. "Open the gates of enlightenment, o thousand years of wisdom. Starlight blast!" I said, feeling power shoot from my arm. He was hit in the chest, and he stumbled back.

Breathing heavily, his once blue eyes turned red and like a snake's. "Dark demon's final days," he said in a calm voice, a creepy smile on his face.

My eyes widened when I was suddenly surrounded in flames and chaos. Broken buildings lay in the distance. Screams arose from all around me, begging me to save them. Black insects crawled forwards onto my body before becoming large demons with misshaped noses and sharp claws. I was smaller than all of them as they towered over me menacingly. Struck with immense terror, I pleaded for my life hysterically. The demons lunged at me while ripping apart my flesh. I screamed.

Zen's laugh vibrated through my ears as I curled into a ball. My blood trickled down my legs. As soon as they had appeared, they disappeared into thin air. I stayed on the ground in my vulnerable state, too weak to move. My mind didn't register his presence when he walked to me. I cried in pain as a loud crack echoed through the air. Zen smirked. "Guess you were all talk then, huh?" He said, kicking me into a tree.

My vision blurred and blood fell from my mouth. I lay on the ground, falling in and out of consciousness.

_No...I refuse...these can't be my last moments. I-I can...make it._

"Get up, you little bitch! I'm not done with you!" Zen roared.

He continued to shout at me, calling my foul names. I squeezed my eyes shut, tuning out everything. In that moment, I couldn't hear anything.

The forest became silent. I couldn't hear a sound.

And slowly, a fiery strength built up in me.

"I am Alastrina Eden, the avenger."

Slowly, I got on one knee and ignored the pain of movement.

_I will avenge him. No matter the cost. _

"I am also Lily Ashley, the celestial goddess of Sabertooth."

I steadily got to my feet, gaining energy but still looking down dizzily at my feet. I took a deep breath, gaining strength in my voice.

"But I will ALWAYS be Lucy Heartfilia of Fairy Tail!" I shouted.

I felt the energy of all my nakama building up in one spell. I saw Levy, Erza, Gray, Erza, Juvia, Cana, Gildarts, Gajeel, Laxus, Mira, Elfman, Lisanna, Evergreen, Bixlow, Freed, Macao, Wakaba, Romeo, Wendy, Makarov, Mavis, and so many more. Everyone was here for me. Everyone was supporting me, pushing me forwards and helping me stand. They would always be here with me, no matter how far I went, no matter how hard things got. Everyone's spirit was within me.

_"You can do it, Lu-chan!" Levy cried with a radiant smile._

_"Great job, kid," Laxus approved, arms crossed._

_"We are Fairy Tail!" Makarov shouted with his hand raised in the L-shaped symbol._

_"Thanks, Luce."_

_It was Natsu with his goofy and endearing smile. He held a hand out for me._

_"Together, we are strong." He placed a hand in mine, squeezing it tightly. "I won't ever let you go again."_

"DRAGON SLAYER'S SECRET ART! STAR QUEEN'S SUPER NOVA ROAR!" I yelled, releasing all of my anxiety, pain, sorrow, and anger. Everything in me from my past life with Fairy Tail exploded to the surface, erupting forwards in a wave of emotion.

I am forever a fairy. I am Lucy Heartfilia.

Light disappeared, and exhaustion took over. Despite my tiredness, I felt happiness and relief. My heavy lids closed involuntarily, my chest heaving up and down. The pain caught up to me.

"Natsu...I can finally...call myself you friend..." I whispered.

"Natsu..." His name passed my lips one more time as my consciousness slowly slipped away. Darkness swirled in my mind.

_Natsu..._

* * *

"...totally reduced him to ashes."

"...so strong."

"She's one of Sabertooth's dragon slayers, all right."

My eyes blinked open slowly. I winced at the light.

"Close. Lights. Please." I slurred.

"You're up!" Sting cried in excitement. The mages went to my side, grinning happily.

"You totally killed that dude! You were amazing, Lucy!" Sting complimented, patting my back. The rest of my nakama congratulated me.

"Hey, kid. You've done good. You've done good." Laxus said, sitting on my bed.

Tears slipped from my eyes and I felt like the young Lucy who had first joined Fairy Tail. "Laxus, I killed him. I finally killed him." I cried, not even caring anymore. Laxus pulled me into a hug and I buried my face into his chest, crying.

"Natsu...I killed him," I whispered. Laxus chuckled softly.  
"You definitely did, kid. I'm so proud, you don't even know. I saw the entire last part. You were gonna die, but then you completely oliberated him. He's just a pile of ashes now. We picked it up and left it for you...don't know what you wanna do with it." He said.

I nodded, wiping my tears in embarrassment. "Sorry, minna...I just can't believe I've finally killed my archenemy. He killed Natsu."

Shifting, I felt a cast around my left leg. I was mostly wrapped in bandages. Sifting through my keys, I picked out Marianna's. "Open! Gate of the healer. Marianna," I said.

My spirit appeared and healed my leg first. Then, she tried to heal the rest. "I'm sorry, princess. This is all I can do." She said apologetically.

I nodded. "Thank you so much, Marianna. I'm sorry to have bothered you." I thanked her.

"Of course, Master," she replied before disappearing in a flash. I sighed, slumping into my bed and peeling the cast off.

"I'll be fine. Did you guys find the king's daughter?" I asked. Sting nodded. "Yep. She was in a rune-created cell," he replied.

There was a knock on the door. "Come in," I said. A servant entered and bowed.

"The king and princess are here to see you," he said before walking away. The king entered with his daughter. They smiled gratefully.

"Thank you rescuing my daughter. I am eternally grateful and regretful of your injuries." he said formally before bringing out seven sacks bulging with what I assumed to be jewels.

"Thank you, your majesty. We were happy to do the job for you. And it was my own fault for getting injured." I replied with a smile.

Princess Riyoko fell to her knees, bowing. There were tears in her green eyes. "No, we could never repay you. Thank you so much. I know how powerful the leader of Dark Alchemist was. If it wasn't for you, I don't think I would be here at the moment. I would've been sacrificed." She said.

I grinned. "There is one thing, you know."

Riyoko lit up, a smile on her young face. "Anything, Lily-san," she said eagerly.

"Would you be so kind as to bring me a strawberry smoothie?"

Everyone around me sweat-dropped.

* * *

**Hope you liked it!**

**QOTD: What color and where would your guild mark be? And which guild?**

**PSH FAIRY TAIL! And probably blue on my right thigh. **


	10. Chapter 10

**Rising Goddess**

**Author's Note**

**I give up. This is probably the crappiest chapter yet. It was written for a different story and years ago. Sorry about the OOC-ness.**

* * *

"I'm so tired," Sting complained after a long and grueling training session. I slapped Sting on the arm, saying, "Baka Sting, just shut up."

He glared, grumbling. "So rude."

"Yeah! You're not allowed to be mean to the Great Sting Eucliffe!" Lector agreed.

Lola glared menacingly at the exceed, arms folded. "What did you say to her? You shouldn't be talking like that to the handmaiden of the Queen," She said, sniffing daintily.

Happy pumped his fist in the air, flying. "Aye!"

I sighed, laughing at them. "Well, I'm beat. We've learned a bunch of new spells and have gotten better in combat and physical strength. I'm gonna go visit Minerva and go shopping." I said, waving good-bye.

"I'm coming, too!" Lola said, flying towards me. Happy shook his head. "And I'm not coming."

"Bye, guys! Don't get too drunk, Stingy!"

I walked off to Minerva's house, humming happily. "Min-chan!" I yelled, slamming her door open. Minerva looked up from her make-up table, smiling.

"Hey, Minnie," I said, waving. She blushed.

"Er, hi, Lu-chan."

Now that our small circle of mages knew who I truly was, they addressed me as my true name when we weren't around others.

"Wanna go shopping?" I asked happily. Minerva shrunk away, her face color turning into a deeper shade of red.

"I'm sorry, Lu-chan. I have a date with Rufus tonight." She said softly. I smacked myself.

"I'm so sorry, Minnie-chan! I completely forgot. I'm a horrible friend! Gomen!" I cried, bowing. Minerva laughed nervously.

"It's no problem, Lu-chan. We can go to that new spa resort. Hearts and Spades Spa Resort? For now, I can't figure out what to wear for the date!" Minerva cried. I blinked.

"I've got the perfect solution!" I cried. We took out all of her fancy dresses and looked at them.

"I would prefer a long blue dress with spagetti straps. Not to extravagant or plain," Minerva decided.

I summoned Virgo and asked her to bring some blue dresses in Minerva's size. She pulled them out and came back right away. "Nope. Definitely not. Eh. Ooh, cute! Nope. OMG, Minnie, look at this one!" I cried, showing her a long, sapphire blue dress with a few ruffles and slightly folded to create a cool look. There entire back of the dress was exposed, and it had spagetti straps.

"Paired with these silver heels and bracelet, and you'd be good to go!" I cried excitedly, grinning. Minerva beamed.

"Arigatou, Lu-chan!" She glanced at her clock lacrima, screeching.

"It's time for my date! Sorry, Lu-chan."

She left quickly. I lit up. I was going to stalk Minerva and Rufus and make sure their date went perfectly!

I stuffed my black wig into my bag and asked Virgo for a red one. I also took my mask off and put on heavy make-up. Changing into a waitress's uniform, I sneakily teleported to the restaurant Rufus and Minerva were supposedly at.

Speaking to the restaurant manager, I was allowed to spy and serve my friends. "You're in luck today. We're doing a masquerade theme today." He said, giving me a black and silver mask.

I straightened and approached my friends. Changing my voice an octave higher, I said, "Hello, hello! I'm, er, Bailey Lockheart, your server for tonight! Would you like anything to drink first?" Bailey Lockheart was a character in my latest novel.

"Red wine and two glasses of water, Miss Lockheart," Rufus replied, dipping his biscotti in some sauce.

I giggled. "You two are such a cute couple! Right away, right away!" I agreed, playing Bailey's personality perfectly. Minerva and Rufus both flushed at my comment as I flounced away. I took out a camera and discreetly shot pictures before grabbing their drinks.

I poured two glasses of water, grabbed a bottle of wine, and took out two more glasses. I skipped back to their table, placing their drinks on the table.

"So, have you two had any ACTION yet," I emphasized action considerably. Minerva gaped at me and shook her head in a flustered way.

"No, no, no! This is our first date. Please don't think we've done...anything," she said, blushing.

Rufus nodded. "Yes, this is our first date. It would be unacceptable to do anything beforehand." He agreed.

I made a face, laughing. "I'm sorry, then. But, still. I think you look so cute together!" I cried.

They exchanged looks like, "This lady is crazy".

"Anyway, I would like to have the fish bruschetta," Rufus ordered. I nodded and wrote it down.

"And you, ma'am?" I asked Minerva.

"Uh, spagetti carbonara, please," she replied.

I giggled and said, "Great choice! I'll be back with your orders A.S.A.P!"

And then things started to go bad really, really fast. "You! What have you done with Lily!" A familiar voice screamed at me, tugging my hand. All eyes turned to the two of us.

"Wh-what? I have no idea what you're talking about, sir," I replied, not wanting to reveal my true identity to Minerva and Rufus.

Sting sniffed me. "Rogue, doesn't she smell like Lily?" The shadow dragon slayer didn't look up from his food as he nodded.

I turned red with anger. Unable to hold it back, I yelled, "Of course I'm Lily, moron! I was trying to make sure Minerva's date went well!"

Sting slowly backed away from me. "Uh, uh...please calm down, Lily..." he said, shooting me a disarming smile. I glowered at him.

"No, I'm not letting you off so easily," I said.

Suddenly, I was stopped by Minerva. She smiled softly at me. "Lily-chan, you didn't have to do this. Thank you. I think Rufus and I will be just fine." She said.

I gave her a doubtful look. "Well, all right, then. I'll be leaving." I said. She hugged me, whispering, "I'll tell you all the details later."

I sighed dejectedly. "Fine, see you later!"

* * *

It had been a few weeks since Minerva and Rufus's date. They were a pretty happy couple now. Today, we were heading to Hearts and Spades Spa Resort with Kiyoko and Erza. Now that Erza and Minerva got along, they were quick friends.

"This will be such a relaxing weekend!" I cried, stretching. Erza agreed, smiling at me.

"Definitely."

After killing Zen a month ago, I was much happier and less agitated. His death weighed heavily against me, but I had done it for Natsu.

I had sent Gray, Wendy, Levy, and Fairy Tail letters, telling them I was fine. Only Erza and Laxus knew that I was a mage in Sabertooth. The others were clueless, but I had left them subtle hints of my whereabouts.

"I'm so excited!" Kiyoko squealed. I tilted my head, wondering if Kiyoko was Natsu's cousin or something. Erza told me upon seeing the girl that she was almost exactly like Natsu. Kiyoko told me her parents had died when she was younger, and she had been raised by her now dead grandmother.

"Same here," Minerva smiled. We dragged our luggage inside, gasping. The ceiling was high and had chandeliers. There were couches and short cafe tables all round. It was extravagantly decorated with lovely abstract paintings.

"Wow," I said, gazing at the colorful fish tank behind the registration desk.

"Hello! Welcome to Hearts and Spades Spa Resort!" A perky employee greeted us at the register.

"Thank you! We have reservations under the name 'Lily Ashley'," I said. The employee nodded and handed us our room assignments.

We walked into our room which consisted of four separate bedrooms and a bathroom.

"Should we go to the public bathing area?" Kiyoko asked after all of us changed into bikinis. I fixed my mask and wig.

"Yes, definitely. I heard that this resort serves drinks and food while you're at the spa area. It's really nice there." Minerva said. She was using a blue swim suit with towel over her shoulder.

Erza wore a black two-piece swimsuit, and Kiyoko wore a red one with orange flame designs. Mine was white with purple tropical flowers.

We arrived at the public spa and saw girls chatting while sipping their smoothies. Two servers handed us drinks, smiling at us graciously.

"Ah...this is the life," Erza said, sinking into the warm water with satisfaction. People around us started whispering.

"Isn't that Titania of Fairy Tail?"

"She's with the strongest mages of Sabertooth!"

"Wow, when did they become friends?"

"Isn't that Erza? She lost her boyfriend to Minerva or  
something."

"I heard that Minerva's went out with all of the guys in Sabertooth."

"Lily is dating Sting and Rogue at the same time!"

"That girl Kiyoko probably is a boy. She totally acts like one!"

All four of us started to emit dark auras as we glared at the girls gossiping about us. One by one, they scrambled out of the public pool and left.

"The downsides of being a popular mage," Minerva said, leaning back. Erza laughed, nodding.

"Agreed. I'm so glad we finally get some relaxing time." I said. Kiyoko nodded.

"The Grand Magic Games are coming really soon. Lily is the only one competing, and I'm the reserve member." Kiyoko mused, placing her finger on her chin.

"Why aren't you competing, Minerva?" Erza asked. Minerva sighed.

"I-I can't. I've tortured...my friend. I shouldn't be apart of this." She said forlornly, head down low. The rest of us were silent as we regarded her.

"I understand," Erza responded simply, glancing at me.

Kiyoko shrunk back, looking like she didn't want to interfere with what looked like private matters between the three of us.

"You're competing, right, Erza?" Minerva asked, changing the subject. The red-haired mage nodded again.

"Yes. I bought new armor just for the occasion, too." She said, leaping out of the spa and transforming into her new armor. It was pure silver with intricate gold designs on it. Five black diamonds were set in place around the collar, and her hair was in two high princess-styled buns, gold and silver ribbons threaded around. The matching sword was silver and gold with Fairy Tail's symbol delicately carved into it, and its hilt had a diamond in it.

"Justice Armor! It was very pricey, and I designed it myself. Of course, I didn't have the time to create it myself like I usually do." She said, her armor clanking.

"What does it do?" I asked, marveling her new armor.

"It was charmed with high tolerance to dark magics, and it can attack and penetrate dark magic. It also makes the wearer resistant to dark magic." Erza explained, shifting her sword. It glowed white, and a brilliant aura shone around her. It slowly disappeared after she re-equiped into her previous bikini.

I clapped. "That's so neat! It'll be handy when you go against dark mages."

She nodded, grinning.

"...and she looked totally embarrassed. Lemme tell ya, it was hilarious!"

I froze, exchanging a look with Minerva. I knew that voice.

STING.

"Next time I hear you do that to her, I'll murder you, Saber," a new voice threatened darkly. My jaw dropped. Laxus?!

Fists clenched, I glowered at the appoaching figures. "Baka boys," I growled.

"Stop fighting," Rogue commanded seriously. I face-palmed. Seriously, Rogue, too? Why would he do this?

They entered the spa, and all of our eyes were already on them. Sting's eyes lit up. "Hey, blondie! Lady, Kiyoko, and..."

"ERZA?" Two men cried at the same time. I saw Jellal and Laxus stare at Titania. She flushed red, eyes darting towards the blue-haired man of Crimiore Heart.

"Wh-what are you doing here, J-Jellal?" She asked nervously, rapidly trying to fix her hair. I giggled to myself at Erza's attempts at looking presentable to her long-time crush.

Everyone gaped at me. "LILY/BLONDIE/LU-CHAN/KID GIGGLED!" They yelled. I glared at the boys, silencing them immediately.

"Hey! I used to giggle all the time." I replied, pouting.

Laxus raised an eyebrow, tossing his towel to the side and settling into the water across from us. "Emphasis on USED TO," he replied, nodding his head to the beat of a song.

"When do you ever take off those headphones, nii-chan? I say you're too attached." I said, pointing at his headphones. He rolled his eyes.

"I'm not attached. You're attached to 'avenging Natsu'. I don't think there's any point. That flame bastard is dead anyway." He said dismissively.

Light flashed through my mind.

FLASHBACK

_"Laxus! Fight me!" Natsu cried, running at the blonde mage. He didn't look up from his beer and punched Natsu in the face, his fist cackling with electricity._

_He collapsed and Mira scolded him, shaking her head. Laxus flushed red, mumbling an apology. Mirajane smiled in approval, patting him on the shoulder._

_Trying to cover his blush, he said, "Demon! Get me another drink."_

_Mira smiled and nodded, expertly filling his cup again. He grunted his thanks._

_I watched a little away from him, laughing quietly. His head swung to me, fixing me with a glare. "Whatcha laughing at, kiddo?" He asked._

_I gasped in surprise at being caught and fell backwards on top of the unconscious Natsu. "Eh?" He slurred, waking._

_"I, er, sorry!" I apologized quickly before squaring my shoulders and facing Laxus. I knew he was a real softie based on his reactions around Mira._

_"I was laughing 'cuz you haven't asked Mira out even when you obviously love her," I replied confidently, flashing a smirk I had seen on Natsu's face when he accepted challenges._

_Laxus's left eye twitched as he just stared at me. "You...you little brat," he grumbled, stalking towards me._

_I stumbled back, eyes wide. Instead of attacking me, he plopped down on the bar stool next to me. "Hey, Mira! Can I ask you something?"_

_The white-haired woman walked to him, smiling kindly, blue eyes sparkling._

_"Yes, Laxus?"_

_He leaned forwards, grabbing her by the chin and kissing her full on the lips. When they split apart, Laxus was grinning nonchalantly while Mira had a soft smile and a blush on her cheeks._

_The entire guild erupted in cheers as they watched the newly formed couple. I whooped and clapped with the rest._

_"About time!" A voice shouted._

_"That's a man!"_

_"All right!"_

_"The matchmaker's found herself a man!"_

_"SQUEEE! Blonde-haired, blue-eyed babies!" Lisanna screamed, stealing her sister's normal line._

_He winked at me before turning back to the take over mage. "So, would you like to go on a date with me?" He asked, smirking and holding her hand._

_Mira's eyes sparkled as she squeaked in astonishment. "I! Um!" She stuttered in excitement, fiddling with her hands._

_"She means yes," Lisanna appeared next to her older sister, a hand on hers._

_The older girl nodded furiously, blushing. "Um, yeah!" I laughed inwardly. This was the first time I had seen Mirajane truly flustered._

_Laxus grinned wider and nodded. "Good. I'll pick you up tonight at seven. That cool with you?" He asked._

_Lisanna squealed with me. "He was serious! So cute! Mira, let's get you ready later! Right, Lu-chan?" She turned to me, grinning._

_I smirked. "Yeah, of course. I'll get the guys to dress Laxus up." Laxus paled, chuckling nervously._

_"Hehe, you see, uh, my house is sort of in remodeling. Sorry, the guys can't come over." He made up, obviously lying._

_Mira ran off to receive congratulations from the other girls. Lisanna scolded, "Laxus! C'mon. Dress up and don't make a lame excuse."_

_Laxus sighed and simply glared at us two girls. "You...two."_

_"CONGRATS, LAXUS!"_

_"Our master's growing up so quickly."_

_"That's a man! But you better take care of my sister."_

_Laxus roared in anger._

_"ALL RIGHT! NOW, STOP CROWDING AROUND ME!"_

_He turned back to me. "Now who's laughing?"_

_I laughed. "Still me. Mira will probably take you on long shopping trips now. Trust me, it sucks. And I LIKE shopping."_

_He groaned._

~~~flashback end~~~

Why did I have to have that memory? A happy one?

"Laxus..." I growled dangerously, rising from the water with blazing eyes. Everyone backed away slowly from me.

"How do you feel about Mira? How would you feel if you knew the person who killed Mira was still on the loose? How would you react when you finally realized that she's dead? That she's never coming back. That you'll never hear her laugh or see her smile. That you'll never, ever, EVER be able to see her again and say good-bye. Mira would be gone forever. You'd be stuck in this terrible abyss with no emotions. You'd be so upset, you wouldn't even be able to force yourself to live on. Do you know how that feels? Lemme tell you, it hurts like hell! So don't even TALK to me about Natsu." I yelled, jabbing a finger at his chest.

He raised his hands in surrender. "Lucy, I—"

"Don't you dare say you're sorry! You aren't sorry! You're not allowed to be sorry because you didn't even know Natsu! You don't even care about him!" I screamed.

His gaze hardened. "You have no right to accuse me of that. He was apart of Fairy Tail, and he was my nakama. Saying I don't care about him is going too far, and you know it. Don't even—"

I raised my fist and controlled the water to come splashing in his face.

"Says the man who purposefully caused the battle of Fairy Tail before the fantasia parade. Do you know how many people were hurt because of you? Bastard, do you—"

"OF COURSE I KNOW!"

In a softer tone, he repeated this again. "Of course I know. And I'm sorry and I was stupid. I can never take it back and I hurt everyone. I didn't deserve to come back. Honestly. I regret it everyday, looking at Mira. She was so kind to me and I didn't deserve it."

My eyes narrowed as I watched him in silence. "What do you mean by WAS?"

He gulped, looking at Erza. Erza rose from her place and said, "Lucy, they broke up. He was found with another woman at the time. A girl from another guild."

"Heavenly starlight aura!" I screamed, launching myself at my adoptive brother. He met my furious attacks until I landed a solid, magic-driven kick on his chest. He spun backwards, stopping himself before he thudded to the wall.

"Lucy, wait! Let me—"

"HOW. COULD. YOU. DO. THAT. TO. MIRA. She's been nothing but nice to you!" I said in between punches.

"The other girl forced herself on me!" Laxus bellowed, flipping me back. I landed silently on the other side of the pool. We breathed heavily, glaring at each other.

"Really? Then are you back together?" I asked angrily, arms crossed.

He slumped onto the wall, looking upset. "I'm sorry, Lucy. I've been mad about the break-up so I just blurted that thing about Natsu. I didn't mean it. It must be hard on you and I was being inconsiderate." He responded, head in his hands.

My gaze softened. "I...I forgive you. That doesn't make it all right. And, stupid, I thought you were a man. Go after your woman! Now!" I cried, pushing him out the door. He stumbled, giving me one last look before disappearing in a crack of lightning.

"You did right. No one could convince him to go after Mira because he was depressed." Erza informed.

I sighed, shaking my head at Laxus's stupidity. Why would he wait this long to win Mira back?

Sting broke the tense silence by plopping into the water, waving the guys over. "C'mon, Orga, Rufus, Rogue, Jellal."

"Why are you here?" I asked curiously. Jellal cleared his throat.

"Er, Laxus invited me. We met in the mountains to defeat a dark guild, and we started to get close." He explained.

I nodded, grinning. "Well, then. That's great. We were just about to leave. Right, Rogue, Sting, Rufus, Orga, Kiyoko, and Minnie-chan?" I asked, making a pretty obvious gesture at the couple.

"I'll come with you," Erza volunteered, rising from the spa. I glared at her, pointing back at the spa.

"Yes, we're coming!" Minerva agreed, ushering all of us besides Erza and Jellal out. Both of them started to protest, but all of us rushed out.

I chuckled evilly, hoping that my plan would end well. "This is not good. Lucy's got her evil, I'm-going-to-take-over-the-world face." Kiyoko said, sighing. I eyed her before cackling.

The boys stared at me in fear, but Minerva shrugged. "Ah, this is normal for Lucy-chan, anyway," she replied indifferently.

I beamed at her before resuming my evil phase. "Thanks, Minnie-chan!" She smiled back at me, nodding.

We decided to go shopping at the nearby mall. There were so many stores, and everything was so dazzling and amazing here. "Ooh! Look at this!" Minerva cried, pointing at a blue crystal lacrima that shone off dazzling light and was attached to a silver chain. I studied the advertisement next to it. You could have your name carved into it.

I lit up immediately. This would be the perfect gift for Minerva's upcoming birthday.

Minerva sifted through her jewels, looking upset. "I didn't bring enough," she said sadly. I patted her, feeling guilty.

"Er, I'm sorry. I didn't bring enough jewels, either."

She sighed and nodded, walking off. I excused myself. "Um, Minnie-chan, I need to go to the bathroom. Go ahead of me to the food court." I said.

Minerva nodded.

As soon as she turned the corner, I pushed the door open into the shop. "Can I buy two of those blue crystal necklaces?" I asked the store manager. He nodded, grinning.

"Excellent choice! These are actually magically charmed. You can store all your pictures here like a memory book. There's instructions here so you can put them in yourself." He explained. I nodded, asking him to carve Minerva and my name into both necklaces.

"Pick these up in an hour," he said. I nodded. "I'm ordering this under the name of Lily. Thank you, sir!" I said gratefully.

He shook his head and waved good-bye.

I rushed out of the store and went after Minerva. I saw her with Sting, Rogue, Kiyoko, Rufus, and Orga, sitting at a table with food and drinks.

"Hi, Lu-Lily! I saved you some." Minerva said brightly. I grinned widely, happy to have bought Minerva's birthday present.

"Thanks, Minnie," I replied, sitting down between Minerva and Rogue.

"Baka!" I heard Kiyoko scream at Orga. Orga simply glared at the pink-haired girl, arms crossed. Frustrated, Kiyoko stormed off.

"C'mon! Don't be such a kill-joy!" Orga shouted after her, still in his seat.

I sent Minerva a questioning look. She sighed, muttering, "They were arguing about the guild and if Kiyoko should be S-class."

Sighing, I wondered if they realized how stupid their arguments were. Thinking wistfully, I remembered Natsu and his stupid arguments with Gray.

"Well, they're archenemies, all right," Sting said lightly.

Orga made no movement of having heard Sting's comment. Rufus cleared his throat. "Well, ah, I have to go do a little shopping for my...cousin. She's a lot younger than me, and her birthday's in just two weeks. I've been searching everywhere for the perfect present. I'll be off now!"

A small frown found its place on Minerva's face as she watched Rufus scurry off. I rolled my eyes. Rufus was obviously trying to find the perfect present for Minerva. Tilting my head, I knew that Levy's birthday would also be coming up three weeks after Minerva's.

Everyone started to leave, making excuses. I stayed with Minerva, but I knew I would have to get rid of her later to get her present. Also, the guild was planning a surprise party for Minerva. Apparently, she had always celebrated her birthday alone after Jiemma had left the guild. Before, there was a huge festival in her honor where members drank for two days. That was the only time Sabertooth ever had any festivities when Jiemma was master.

Iris had already approved of a party for Minerva.

"Minerva, will you help me find a birthday present for an old friend?" I asked hopefully, thinking of Minerva. I saw hurt flash in her eyes for just a moment.

"O-of course, Lily-chan," she muttered, following closely behind me. In the end, I bought her a book about ancient creatures and a charm bracelet with a book and the symbol of a dragon (for Gajeel), Fairy Tail's insignia, and a sapphire heart. I also decided to finish writing the book I had started writing when we went on the S-class mission where I killed Zen.

"It seems like she's an important friend to you," Minerva said as we looked at a display of diamond earrings. I nodded, staring at a pair of beautiful earrings set in gold.

"Of course. Do you like these earrings?" I asked, pointing at the blue diamond earrings. Minerva's eyes strayed to the item and nodded.

"It's beautiful! I wish Rufus could buy me a ring like that someday..." she whispered in a lovesick way.

I snapped my fingers. "I'll be right back, Minnie-chan! Go to that shoe store you wanted to go to before. I'll be right there." She shot me a suspicios look before walking away. I pulled out my communication lacrima and contacted Rufus.

"Have you found a gift for her yet?" I asked.

Rufus sighed in a dejected way. "No."

"I've got the perfect gift!" I told him about the earrings Minerva had saw.

"Thanks, Lucy-san. Go talk to Minerva and distract her." He said. I nodded and pocketed the lacrima, walking to the shoe store.

"Hey, Minnie!"

I saw her staring at a pair of shoes, playing with the laces. Her head was down like she didn't want me to see her face.

"Do you all...hate me?" She murmured, choking tear back. My eyes widened in fear. What was happening?

"No, no! Why would you ever think that, Minnie-chan?" I asked in surprise. Minerva twirled on her heel, wiping tears.

"Because...because..."

"If it's because of your birthday, then no. We don't hate you." I paused, sighing.

"We had this big surprise...but I guess it's ruined now, huh?" I asked, laughing. Minerva chuckled and looked back at me, eyes filled with tears.

"Thank you...I'm sorry for being so selfish and crying about such a trivial thing." She said, hugging me.

I patted her on the back. "No worries, Minnie. If I were in your position, I would feel the same."

She sighed and gave me a happy grin. "So, are we going to find the others?"

I returned it. "Of course."

* * *

**As OOC as it gets. **

**I'll make it up to you later. I'm just exhausted. **

**Thanks for the reviews! **

**QOTD: How was this chapter?**

**-flying**


	11. Omake 1

**Rising Goddess**

**Author's Note**

**Thanks for the beautiful comments! I'm back. This is an OMAKE, an early Christmas present for all you Rolu fans. It's the most explicit thing I've ever written, but that's why it's rated T. But don't worry its still T.**

**Enjoy Omake 1! Other stuff will be coming your way. It's short. And the ending is retarded. Idek it was mean to be very light, but became smexy and then became just...weird. **

**Still. **

**Enjoy! PREPARE FOR OOC-NESS. I BLAME PMS AND DRAGON SLAYING INSTINCTS**

* * *

OMAKE 1

"YOU BLOND DUMBASS, GET ME SOME ICE CREAM. NOW!"

Brown eyes blazed as the fuming girl glared viciously at the older man before her. Another man lounged on a couch, lazily overseeing another entertaining argument between the two blondes. However, even he was not always safe from her monthly demonic phase-PMS.

"I'm sorry!"

Sting Eucliffe, the mighty white dragon slayer, cowered pitifully, raising his hands in an attempt to convey his surrender to the blond demon. In this state, even Lector was not able to find anything praise-worthy about his partner.

"Tch," she snarled lowly, slapping her whip back into place. With that, Lucy flicked a finger and allowed his to depart. Turning, she barked, "Emo!"

Rogue had long given up on trying to get Lucy to call him by name during her PMS phase. The last time he'd tried, he'd gotten a face full of foot.

Boy, had that hurt.

"Yes...?" He asked hesitantly.

"Go get me a new book," she demanded. Rogue nodded mutely.

"Anything else?"

She tapped her chin. "Hn. I'm coming with you. Give me a piggy back ride." Before Rogue could protest, Lucy wrapped her legs around his torso and hugged his neck, caressing the skin.

A deep blush settled onto Rogue's pale skin.

Lucy shot him an annoyed look, ready to abuse him. "What are you waiting for? Let's go!" Rogue gulped as Lucy shoved a pair of bunny ears and glasses onto his face. She placed her mask and wig on herself.

"Outside? Public?" He squeaked nervously. She slapped his back in reply. And off they went.

The pair were quite a sight. Lucy was oblivious to the coos of elderly ladies and glares of jealousy, but Rogue sensed all of it.

"Rogue looks so kawaii in that! Who knew he could pull it off!" A fangirl nearby whispered.

Apparently, Lucy DID catch that. "He's mine!" She let loose a low guttural noise possessively. The girl eeped in response at the feral glint in Lucy's eyes, scattering.

"Bookstore. Go, Rogey-poo."

He flushed in embarrassment. God, the things she did to him. "H-hai, Lily-"

"You have to call me Lily-sama, Rogue-kun." She announced, spreading her arms grandly. Rogue grit his teeth as the girl swung backwards, hanging upside down by only her legs, which were being held by a very emotionally-taxed shadow slayer.

Not wanting her to launch into a PMS rage, he agreed reluctantly.

"Say 'yes, Lily-sama'."

"Y-yes, Lily-sama," he grumbled.

She sobbed. "R-rogue-kun is being mean! He hates me!" She sobbed loudly, attracting everyone's attention.

The celestial mage ran off in tears. Rogue slapped his forehead. "Damnit."

He searched high and low for her, wondering where the hell she had gone so fast. "Lucy-er, Lily!" He shouted. It was not a good idea to leave an emotionally unstable girl on the streets.

Suddenly, she appeared, stalking forwards. Her hair whipped through the wind. "What the-Lily, I was looking for you!"

Ignoring his words, she dragged him into a dark alley. She traced his chiseled jaw teasingly. Deviously, the curvaceous blond kissed his neck. She drifted deeper with her mouth, hands delicately splayed across his broad chest.

A groan fled from his full lips. "L-lucy..."

She hitched a porcelain leg around his waist, tugging at his dark locks. His arms immediately locked around her thighs, holding her in place.

"Rogue..." Her voice echoed seductively, low and husky. Pearly teeth tugged at his earlobe before flashing back down to his neck while her slim hands attacked his muscled middle.

His dragon instincts burst forth, and suddenly she was in his trapped embrace, ruby eyes fervent with an intense lust. Fangs hovered over the perfect arch of her neck. He took in a deep sniff-

Alcohol.

Rogue Cheney the emotionless reappeared, swallowing the lump in his throat. "Fuck," he whispered, smashing his fist into the wall next to Lucy's head. She was still between his arms, gazing expectedly at him.

"Fuck, I'm sorry."

He collapsed at her feet, an almost silent whimper escaping from him. He'd lost to the dragon inside him. Again.

"I love you," she breathed.

He choked, shock zipping up his spine.

"Skiadrum."

Rogue glanced up, surprised to see Lucy's eyes glowing a pure white.

"Skiadrum, I love you." The voice was velvety and majestic, ancient and wise.

Suddenly, it dawned on him. This was Astra, celestial dragon.

Tears of happiness rolled out of her eyes. A misty image of the human form of Astra overtook Lucy, reaching a hand out to him.

Deep inside of him, remains of his father, Skiadrum, awoke. "I love you, too, my queen."

More silver tears sprung from her eyes.

"Every time I die...I see you. But I can never reach you."

Soft lips closed on his. Fingers tangled into his hair. Rogue pushed back, wrapping strong arms around her petite waist.

In that moment, two dragons were united, then vanished.

Lucy and Rogue were still kissing.

PMS Lucy was back. She smirked. "You're actually pretty sexy for an emo."

Rogue's face became the color of Erza's hair.

* * *

**again, the shortest thing ever. SORRY. BUT OMAKE 2 is coming soon!**

**Like hate leave A review!**


	12. Chapter 12

**Rising Goddess**

**Author's Note**

**Holy crap. This is the longest chapter I've ever written. At over 6,000 words, I hope you all enjoy this one. Basically, there's one more chapter before the GMG begins. **

**Thank you for the beautiful reviews. Especially Angie. That was the longest review yet, I think! It was also really nice and inspiring, so hopefully you'll enjoy this chapter even more! ****Also, InfernoDragon7, jeez you scared me at first. Thanks so much for your continued support and dealing with my stupidity (at times). Anyway, crying because of how awesome all of you reviewers are. Omake 2 at the end! XD It's not a Sticy really, but it's meant to be hilarious.**

* * *

**_Lucy_  
**

"I can't do this anymore!" I yelled at Sting as I collapsed. The blond man continued to run in place next to me, filled with boundless energy. This time, Sting and Rogue had forced me to work out endurance and physical strength. Just because I was a dragon slayer didn't mean that I had honed my talents in this area. Well, the two pushed me so hard that I felt like I would break at any given moment.

Sting snorted. "This is nothing, blondie. Get up and run thirty more laps." He commanded, pulling me up.

I groaned, rolling around. My feet felt like lead, and each time I walked, pain shot up my legs. "I've already done fifty around the entire mountain!"

Suddenly, Rogue appeared. "Lily, listen. If you don't want to get stronger, then fine. But if you do, get up and don't complain about these exercises. You need them." He said.

I was silent for a moment. Shakily, I got onto my quavering legs and sprinted past the two of them. A burning sensation spread through my calves. Exercise definitely sucked. I groaned inwardly. The only reason I was doing this was because I had to get physically stronger, too. At least now I wouldn't have to go on a diet with all of this exercise.

"That's it, Lucy. Good job." Rogue nodded in approval as the three of us ran on the trail. I took a deep breath. This went on for a while more before my two training mentors called a break.

Rogue sighed. "We still have to work on your physical endurance and strength. As a dragon slayer, this should be easier for you than the average mage." He said.  
I groaned. When I had been training with Astra, we never did this much physical training. It was all based on spells and such. "Isn't there an easier way to do this?"

Sting and Rogue exchanged looks. "I'm not sure you would call it easy, but it's a lot faster," Sting chuckled nervously.

"You'd probably kill us in the end." Rogue said flatly.

I rolled my eyes. "Whatever. As long as it helps me before the games come in a week." I replied in a determined way.

Sting crossed his arms, cerulean blue eyes glinting deviously. "You asked for it."

"Light dragon's roar!"

"Shadow dragon's roar!"

I screamed, dodging the attacks. Was this what they meant by 'faster' exercise?

Running, I looked back to see what the next attack would be. "Five laps in ten minutes around the mountain, or else we'll start dealing more attacks," Rogue commanded emotionless.

My eyes widened. "Ten minutes? Rogue, seriously—"

He cut me off with a "Wing slash of the shadow dragon!"

I dodged just in time, but the attack got the edge of my cloak, ripping it. I screeched, glaring. "That was my favorite cloak, baka!" I yelled.

"Holy nova—" Sting started.

I waved my arms, stopping him. "Okay, okay! I'm running!" He stopped, a satisfied look on his face.

Sprinting, I tried to ignore my lungs that burned and protested against the extensive running. I made it through four laps when Sting yelled, "Move it! You've got a minute and twenty seconds."

I landed on my knees, not wanting to run anymore. "Stiing...I don't want to run anymore!" I cried.

"Holy nova blast!"

Scrambling out of the way, I forced myself to jog. "You're out of time!" Shouted Rogue. I sent him a withering look.

"Unison raid! Shadow dragon's roar!"

"Unison raid! Light dragon's roar!"

I lifted a finger. "Starlight shield. Celestial dragon's ultimate defense." I mumbled. Three magic circles appeared, barely protecting me from the dragon slayers' combined attacks. The pure force of the attacks caused me to move backwards a couple of yards, but the shield held strong. There was a loud boom and the entire clearing had no more life in it.

Sting huffed. "One more lap. You've got a minute and thirty seconds."

Rogue nodded. "This time you won't be able to avoid the attack. I know you don't have enough energy to pull off a tedious spell like that." he said.

I got up and started running, staggering all over the place. "You look like a drunken duck! Run faster!" Sting roared with laughter.

This would be a long week.

* * *

"Everyone! She's coming!" Someone whispered. Everyone quieted down and settled in their hiding places.

"...and that was wonderful, Rufus. Thank you."

"SURPRISE!"

Rufus flicked the lights on and everyone jumped out, scaring her. I grinned widely, approaching her.

"Happy birthday, Minnie-chan!" I greeted, hugging her. She stared in awe. The guild was beautifully decorated in blue and gold. Gifts were stacked to the side on the bar table, spilling all over the table. Fireworks flowed from two enchanted containers, reading, "Happy B-day, Minerva!"

"Oh my gosh, thank you so much!" she cried, tears spilling from her eyes. I smiled at her, hugging her again.

"No need! Today's your day, so let's all party away. KIYOKO, HIT IT!" I yelled, pointing at her. Loud music blasted from magic lacrima speakers, playing this year's best music.

Rufus pulled Minerva to the dance floor, and many others did the same. I sat to the side, sipping a strawberry smoothie. I was happy that Minerva was having so much fun.

Kiyoko, Lola, and I had planned an after party for Minerva, but only Erza, Kiyoko, Lola, and I would be there with Minerva.

"What are you doing here all by yourself?"

I turned and saw Rogue, a small smile on his face as he extended his hand to me. "May I have this dance?"

Beaming, I accepted and pulled him to the floor. We started off with an up-beat and fun love song which changed to crazy heavy metal to a slow dance song. Caught up in the loud songs from before, we silently swayed to the waltz music.

"Did I ever tell you how much I hate this kinda music?" He asked, grinning at me. "It's so awkward to dance to." I burst out laughing, shaking my head at him.

"Ryos, I'm pretty sure—"

"Who told you that?" He asked in shock, stiffening. I chuckled at his expression.

"Gajeel, of course—"

"Is he a good friend of yours? Do you still talk to him?"

"Yes, since he's Levy's boyfriend. I send letters. They don't know that I'm Lily Ashley from Sabertooth."

"I see. That's interesting, isn't it? I still...look up to him, I guess." Rogue said sheepishly.

I sighed. I never thought of Gajeel as a good role model, but he did have his moments of wisdom. Rolling my eyes, I pushed him on the chest gently. "You don't need Gajeel anymore. You're a grown man. You were right about wanting to surpass him before, but you don't need...you don't need his approval, okay? Gajeel would tell you to man up."

I paused for a moment, staring into space and biting my lip. I wanted to know. Had they changed? "Rogue, tell me...what is this life to you? What does being a mage mean to you?"

He raised an eyebrow. "Do you want the truth or some far-fetched, Fairy Tail answer? To be honest, I don't believe in all of your 'boom nakama power' crap. No offense."

I glared mockingly, slightly hurt. After all, I still considered Fairy Tail as my family. "The truth, please," I answered quickly.

"It's a way of earning money, getting through life. I guess there's also that thrill of beating someone and being revered, but that's what Sting would say. I want to make sure Frosch will be safe and have a place to live. Also, it's a much more interesting lifestyle than having a normal profession."

Nodding, I responded, "You're a good person. Mavis knows you have the soul of a fairy." I winked.

His eyes darted behind me. "I think someone else would like to dance with you," he whispered. I turned around to see Sting's blue eyes on me. He looked away as soon as I glanced over. I turned back, but Rogue was no where in sight.

Smiling to myself, I approached the blond dragon slayer. "Hello, Sting! Someone looks upset." I teased. I could tell he had been drinking slightly; his breath reeked of alcohol.

He grinned back at me, stumbling up. "H-hey, Luce, let's d-dance..." he slurred, dragging me. I held him back, forcing him to sit down.

"Sting, I don't want to baby you, but you need to get sober first," I scolded gently. He groaned and pressed his face into my lap, sighing. I blushed at this.

Today, I had worn a long scarlet dress that was slit on the right side from my thigh to my ankles. My mask was scarlet, white, and gold. I stared down at the blond dragon slayer, sighing.

He hiccuped. "L-luce...sorry about...bothering you," he said. I patted his forehead, shaking my head it his stupidity.

"It's all right. Maybe we should take you home?"

He didn't answer. Instead, he fell asleep with a genuine smile on his face. "You're just about the only one who can calm him down."

I looked about to see Rufus. Nodding slowly, I replied stiffly, "I suppose." If he wasn't Minerva's boyfriend, I would have completely ignored him and never told him about the special gift. I still didn't really want to associate with him after he eavesdropped on my and Laxus's conversation. Questioning my loyalty? I wouldn't go so low to betray my guild.

He sighed. "Look, Lily-san, I owe you an apology."

He looked down at his hands to Minerva. "You're Minerva's best friend, and I should've allowed you to keep your privacy. I was just curious; I wanted to make sure Minerva had the best kind of person as her friend. I realize now that you're a wonderful friend. You made this party, talked to her. You even forgave her for all she did to you before, even going so far as to become her best friend. I know now that you truly want the best for her."

There was a moment of silence as the two of us stared at each other. His look was sincere and sheepish while mine was harsh and distasteful.

"It's okay," I concluded, not glaring at him anymore.

I nodded once before handing Sting to Rufus. "I forgive you. Now hold him while I go get a snack."

He obeyed, sighing as I swiftly walked away.

"H-hey, Lily-chan!" Kiyoko hiccuped, slinging an arm around my shoulders. I shook my head at the drunk girl, scolding her.

"Kiyoko! Sit down!" I told her while snatching the bottle of sake out of her hand. Her eyes rolled into the back of her head and she slumped against the bar counter, fast asleep. I stared in awe before draping a blanket around her shoulders.

I smiled. Two hours had passed since the start of the party, and everyone was enjoying the food being served. The bartender winked at me while holding a tray with a small glass of white wine. I accepted it gladly and sipped slowly, thanking him.

Walking onto stage with Rufus, we had everyone sit down.

"As everyone knows, Minerva is an important part of our guild Sabertooth. She cares for everyone, and she's nakama to all of us. She deserves something special, and that is why all of you have been invited here today." Rufus began, smiling warmly at our guild mates.

"So, with that said, would anyone like to make a toast to the beautiful and brilliant Minerva Orlando?" I asked, beaming. Minerva blushed as a spotlight landed on her.

Sting cleared his throat, still tipsy. "Me!" Another spotlight drifted towards Sting, and all eyes focused on him.

He chuckled, raising his glass. "I've known Minerva for a r'lly long time. Sh-she used to be so ruthless and bloodthirsty, and I know she's not proud o' 'er former self. An' she's the most caring and nicest person of them all. I guess it goes to say, people can change. Let's toast to Minerva's health, minna!"

The guild cheered Minerva's name and downed drinks. Right after downing the rest of the bottle in his hand, he threw up on stage. Pinching my nose, I hauled Sting off the stage. "Baka!"

"Sorry..." With that, he fell asleep again.

"I'd like to make a toast next," Rufus announced, nervously stepping over Sting's puke. Flicking a wrist with practiced perfection, I pulled Virgo's key out and asked for a towel. She obliged, and the two of us cleaned up Sting's mess. I'd have to kill him for that later.

Minerva smiled lovingly at him as he slowly walked off the stage and held her hand.

"I thought long and hard about making a toast to you. It was difficult at first, but I guess I'm just going to spill all of my thoughts to you. Minerva, you're beautiful, wonderful, intelligent, hilarious, and powerful. You're perfect in so many ways, and I know you don't consider yourself perfect. I hope I can stay with you forever, but forever never lasts."

He whipped out something from his pocket. All of the girls gasped and the guys congratulated him as he smiled sheepishly at her. Minerva was gaping, her eyes wide. "I know this is way too early. We've only been dating for a couple of months or so..."

"Uh...a promise ring...for the years to come," he said sincerely, opening the velvet blue box and slipping the sapphire and diamond ring onto her finger.

Minerva sobbed and hugged him tightly, choking out an emotion-filled 'thank you'. Then, she pressed her mouth to his, causing a lot of guys to start whistling. Rufus was surprised at first before he kissed her back. After they split apart, both were blushing. I aw'ed, clasping my hands in adoration as I watched them confess their love for each other.

He smiled and patted her before pointing at me to make my toast. "Uh, do I really have to go after that emotional toast?" I said, laughing with the rest of the guild.

"So, first, I guess, congratulations, Minnie-chan and Rufus. I'm so glad you two finally found each other." I started, nodding towards the couple. Minerva smiled gratefully at me and Rufus lifted a hand in my direction.

"Before, I was scared of Minerva. Hearing all of the stories about her and her strength and how she was frightened and revered by all these people, I thought she would be a cruel person or something. So, I was pleasantly surprised when I realized how kind she was. I know she may have had a bad past but it's the changes people work at in themselves to become better that count. For that, I think she's an excellent role model, and I look up to her. She's my best friend, she's a supported, she's a true member of this guild Sabertooth. She's my nakama. And I wish her a happy and long life. Minerva, you are blessed."

We held each other's eyes for a moment before I looked down at my hands.

"Oh, and I hope you and Rufus have a ton of kids and make me the auntie!" I squealed, clapping my hands.

Everyone laughed while Rufus and Minerva blushed. Minerva shot me a wicked look while I sent her an innocent one, winking.

"Anyone else?"

Master Iris raised her hand. The spotlight shone down on her. Although she was old, Master was dazzling as ever with a sparkle in her youthful eyes.

"I would like to toast to Minerva Orlando of Sabertooth."

All was quiet as our guild master spoke with a gentle and quiet voice that seemed to resonate throughout the hall.

"Minerva, I think of you as a daughter. You were here at Sabertooth before me, and even back then, I saw the good in you. You're an excellent part of this guild. Like, Sting, Rufus, and Lily said, you are brilliant and astonishing and powerful. You may look down upon yourself for your past, but I want you to remember how people thought of you then. I want you to prove them wrong. You are not that girl you were before. For this, I toast to Minerva Orlando who grows older and wiser day by day. I also want you to know another thing. You may think that you shall become evil in the future. You saw Future Minerva. Know this: I see the change in you everyday. Not only do you grow kinder and more remorseful, there is no way you would become that woman you saw as your future self. If you don't want it to happen, change it. And you have changed drastically. It pains me to say this, but, one day, you may leave the guild to start your own. No matter what you do, I shall support you...as your mother. Happy twenty-first birthday!"

She sipped a glass of wine, smiling at Minerva in a motherly way. Minerva was crying as she looked up at her adoptive mother. She sank to the floor, shoulders shaking.

"Thank you so much, minna! Thank you for everything. I could never ask her for better friends—no, better family!"

I hugged her. "Don't cry, Minerva. It is your day!"

She looked up. "These are tears of happiness, and I will be happy to cry these."

* * *

We walked home to Kiyoko's home together, linking arms and laughing.

Let the afterparty begin.

Kiyoko pushed her door open to see Erza already inside eating strawberry cake. I snickered and plopped down next to her.

"Wh-what? How? When?" Kiyoko sputtered, pointing at Erza. The scarlet-haired mage smiled as greeting before returning to her cake.

The pink-haired girl sighed and slumped onto the couch, shaking her head. I chuckled. "I know how you feel. My friends used to break into my house all the time." I said, exchanging a look with Erza.

There was a spark of knowing in her eyes.

Kiyoko grinned. "Well, what are we waiting for? Let's get this afterparty started!"

All four of us sat on the carpet in a circle with music blasting in the background. We decided to play card games at first.

"I'm bored of this," Minerva announced as she leaned backward onto the ground.

"Ooh! Why don't we re-watch the Grand Magic Games in preparation for the games?" Kiyoko asked.

Minerva shifted nervously. "Um, just last year's, right?" I knew she didn't want to watch what she had done during the Naval Battle years ago.

Kiyoko nodded. "Oh, sure!"

Erza and I agreed.

The pinkette pushed a few buttons before the games showed up on the lacrima TV. I watched in interest, listening to the competitior statistics. I saw Erza fighting Laxus, Gray against Mira, and Wendy against Juvia.

We watched for hours before deciding to do something else. "How about we play 'Truth or Dare'?" Erza suggested.

I grinned deviously. "Of course. I'll start."

Turning to Erza, I asked, "Truth or dare?"

"Dare."

"I dare you to tell us everything that happened when we left you with Jellal."

She paled and looked down at her palms, shuddering. "We, uh...we talked. I told him I understood why he always left me alone. And he asked me...he asked me if I had feelings for him."

"And what did you say?" Minerva goaded softly, an intense look of curiosity in her eyes.

Erza hesitated before continuing. "I told him he was a brother to me."

There was pure silence besides the pounding music in the background.

"Wait, what?"

"HOW COULD YOU!"

"NOOOOOO!" It was Minerva who wailed this in despair, a heatbroken look in her eyes.

Kiyoko looked on in confusion. "Erza-sama, all the magazines said you've had a long history with Jellal and that you two are a hundred percent compatible together."

Since Jellal had paid for his previous actions, the council chose to set him free. However, the council forced him to do tasks.

Erza blushed. "Eh? When were we spoken of together?"

Kiyoko watched Erza with wide eyes.

"All the time!"

Erza blushed, turning away. There was a moment of silence before the redhead spoke again. "Ah...do you think I should go on a date with him?"

I raised an eyebrow. "For months, you complaind that he was ignoring you and that he didn't like you. Now, he asked you out and you said no! Doesn't that sound completely stupid and contradictory? No offense."

Erza blushed. "I was scared...I was scared he would betray me again. I know it sounds stupid. But it was so real. I had this vision...all of a sudden, Jellal left me in my time of greatest need. He was gone."

She smiled grimly. "Maybe we just weren't meant to be, Jellal and me."

My jaw dropped. "How dare you, Erza! How can you say that when your chemistry is so perfect?"

My scarlet-haired friend glanced at me with big eyes. "You really think so? I don't know what to do, minna." she looked down, shaking.

I stood up, eyes blazing. "I can't bear to see you like this! You are ERZA SCARLET, Fairy Tail's Titania! The great and powerful Queen of Fairies! You don't bow down before a difficult challenge. You take a head-on. How is this so different? Tell me, would you want to die knowing that you never got to tell Jellal how you felt before. Erza, please. You need to make a decision."

Erza stared up at me, shocked. She took a deep breath, a determined look on her face. "I will speak to him right after I leave."

She paused. "Thank you for helping me see what I'm doing wrong, Lucy."

Minerva cleared her throat. "Now that that's through with, let's watch a movie and eat ice cream!"

I laughed, helping Minerva raid Kiyoko's freezer. I threw a tub of strawberry ice cream and a spoon to Erza, who caught it gratefully. Kiyoko asked for rocky road, and Minerva handed it to her. Minerva decided on stracciatella, and I got mint and chocolate chip.

Minerva chose the movie, which was a cute and romantic chick flick. It was called "Switched", and a nerdy girl who had a crush on the most popular guy switched bodies with the most popular girl in school. In the end, the situation was resolved, and the nerdy girl and the popular guy started going out.

"That was really cute," Minerva said. Suddenly, Lola arrived, flying through the window.

"Lola! Yay!" I said, hugging her. My exceed landed on the couch, sighing. Lola had fallen asleep after the party, so I had left her in my room to sleep with a note that told her we were at the afterparty.

"Rogue and Sting, mostly Sting, were being especially loud," Lola complained, sighing.

I laughed, patting her head. "I'm sorry, Lola. But then again, Sting is always loud."

"And yet you love him," Minerva teased, nudging me with her elbow. My jaw dropped as I stared at Minerva.

"EHHHH?" Erza and Kiyoko asked in unison, eyes wide. I blushed, glaring at Minerva who smiled innocently. I rolled my eyes. Innocent my ass.

"Who told you?" I asked Minerva.  
"Sting was talking about how you kissed his cheek before you left to see Laxus." Minerva teased, grinning wider and wider.

Suddenly, my lacrima devise started buzzing. Pulling it out, I watched as Laxus's image unfolded before me. "Hey, Lucy—Lily. Lily, sorry. Er, is Erza with you right now?"

Erza stood up and took the lacrima from me. "What is it, Laxus?"

Laxus gulped. "Well, uh, Kagura called...and she's asking for your help. Milliana may or may not have been kidnapped by a dark guild master. Kagura believes the master is using Milliana as bait for you and Kagura, but she wanted to ask for your help since you're a close friend of Milliana's."

Erza nodded seriously. "When would Kagura like to meet?"

Laxus shuffled his feet, looking nervous for the first time in his life. "Now. And, just so you know, Kagura's actually bringing back-up and she advises you to do the same."

"We can help," Kiyoko called, appearing next to Erza and I.

Minerva nodded. "We'll be her back-up."

I glanced at Minerva uneasily. "Minerva, Kagura—"

Minerva shook her head. "I must apologize—to both her and Milliana. This would be the perfect chance."

Erza studied us before turning back to Laxus. "Alright. We're set. So, where are we meeting?" she asked.

"Fairy Tail. They're almost here."

We said our good-byes before racing to Fairy Tail. I summoned my transporting spirit, Talia. We arrived moments later in front of the Fairy Tail guild. A few lights were still on. Entering the guild, I breathed in the scent of my home guild and smiled. This was my home and I missed it very much.

Mira and Laxus were sitting across from each other at the bar, smiling at each other. I loved how they understood each other when they were pretty much complete opposites. I fixed my mask and waved at the two, who turned to us.

"Hello, Erza! Mermaid Heel is on the way. How did you get here so fast?" Mirajane asked. Her eyes darted to the rest of us, the Sabertooth mages. She was probably wondering why the heck we were here, but she was too kind to say this.

She nodded at me, smiling. "Hello, Lily. Minerva, and...I'm not quite sure who you are?" she said, turning her attention to Kiyoko.

"She's Natsu's cousin, Kiyoko," Erza blurted out. "They never met but her grandmother told her stories about Natsu before the family lost him."

Mira's blue eyes widened in surprise. "O-of course! Nice to meet you, Kiyoko!"

Kiyoko nodded, nudging Erza in the ribs gently.

Laxus cleared his throat, turning attention away from Kiyoko's sudden relation to Natsu. "Er, welcome to the guild, imotou-chan," he told me, high-fiving me rather awkwardly. I punched him in the shoulder. "Glad to see you back with Mira-chan, you big baka," I said.

Mira laughed. "I'm glad to be back with Laxus," she said.

She tilted her head at me thoughtfully. "Although...am I Mira-chan to you now?"

"Mira, can I talk to you privately?" The words spilled from my mouth. I reached out and grabbed her wrist, pulling her into the infirmary and shutting the door.

"So, what was it you need, Lily—oh my god, Lucy!"

I smiled at her and hugged her back. My mask and wig were off and it was just me, greeting Mira. "Thank you for accepting Laxus again," I whispered, hugging her tighter. The older girl nodded, her tears dropping on my shoulder.

"Always. Lucy, you haven't been back in so long. We were so worried! Please, come back to the guild!" she cried.

I shook my head. "My life is at Sabertooth now. When I'm in Magnolia, all I can think about is Natsu. I'm still not over him. I don't think I ever will. For now, Sabertooth is my home. And I assure you, everyone is taking great care of me."

Mira lit up. "I saw those pictures of you and Sting and Rogue. Who are you with now, eh?"

I blushed. "Mira...they're just my friends, and they know who I really am." I said. An image of a half-naked Sting flashed before my eyes, and I reddened even more.

"Of course," Mira teased. She helped me place my wig and mask back before leading me out.

"Laxus, your sister seems very sweet. She reminds me of Lucy!" Mira announced, a mischievous look in her eyes. Laxus rolled my eyes. "Yeah, yeah. I guess she is besides 99.9 percent of the time."

He sent me a look like, "you told her".

"Hey!" I screeched.

Mira smacked Laxus on the arm gently. "Lily is nice very often!" she said. I nodded.

"See? Your own girlfriend agrees!" I yelled. Laxus stepped back. "Okay, okay! Calm down!"

I grinned at him.

Mermaid Heel arrived with Kagura in the lead. She bowed. "Ohayo, Erza and her team. I'm assuming we'll be off right away." she said. Her eyes darted to us, landing on our proudly displayed Sabertooth insignias. I heard her heartbeat quicken and saw her fingers clench tighter around her sheathed sword. I shifted my cloak to the side, slipping my hand behind my whip.

If she attacked, I would be ready.  
Instead, she nodded at us. "Erza, this is your team?"

Before she could respond, Minerva stepped in. "Kagura-san, I beg for forgiveness," she whispered. Bowing, she looked down at the floor. The salty scent of tears spread across the room like fire to a forest. I exchanged looks with Laxus—we both knew she was still having problems with her past.

Kagura continued to look down upon Minerva with an unreadable expression. "And why is that, Minerva Orlando?"

"I am sorry...I regret...I regret everything I have done to hurt you and your comrades. I shall help you the best I can by saving Milliana with you." she said.

Kagura's hazel eyes flashed, and she closed her eyes. "I forgive you for what you've done to me. I do not trust you, and I never will, Minerva Orlando. If you want true forgiveness, you will understand that the moment your blood spills for Milliana, I will forgive you."

She turned to Erza with an almost distasteful expression. "Erza-san, I regret to say that only Minerva will come with us. If she is looking for true forgiveness and to repent her sins, she will take on the burden meant for four."

Erza hesitated.

"I will come with Kagura-san and her team," Minerva said determinedly.

"I...Kagura, I think you're being too harsh," Erza said softly.

Kagura looked towards Minerva and helped her up. "You'll be our back-up, Erza, but we will be fine."

"Thank you for your concern, Erza, but do not worry about me," Minerva said. She turned to me and hugged me.

"Are you sure about this?" I whispered. She nodded. "You think it's harsh, but I'm glad Kagura is taking this seriously and not waving this away like you did. I love you for being so forgiving, but I need to realize my true identity as Minerva, the kind and caring mage from Sabertooth."

I sighed. "Good luck."

"I'm worried about her. It's her birthday, too," Kiyoko said as she lounged on her expensive sofa, playing with a pencil.

All three of us sat down on separate couches. The TV was on, playing softly in the background. Erza, Kiyoko, Lola, and I were next to each other, doing our own thing. I felt uncomfortable, restless. I really wanted to help Minerva, but she had told me not to come.

"Hey, Blondie!" Sting cried. The two dragon slayers were on the couch, watching TV with the exceeds, who were playing checkers. Happy and Lector were arguing over the checkerboard while Frosch studied the board.

"Fro wins!" Frosch cried, jumping up. Lector and Happy yelled in unison, "WHAT?"

"Fro wins! See?"

Lector and Happy grudgingly handed Frosch fish. I laughed. "Serves you two right. I gotta go now, see you!"

* * *

"Yo, Blondie," Sting pushed my door open.

"What?" I asked in an irritated manner. I was reading Levy and Gajeel's letter to myself.

"Hey, why does this say 'From Gajeel and Levy'," Sting said, examining the plain white envelope the couple had sent the letter in.

"Because it's from them!" I said an exasperated way, pushing him out.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa! Stop right there! I was just asking you if you wanted to play chess with me. Rogue's asleep on the couch and so are the exceeds." he explained.

I raised an eyebrow. "That's what normal people do when it's three in the morning," I responded, crossing my arms and setting the letter down.

He rolled his eyes. "Well, I'm bored. C'mon, let's go!"

I groaned. "Too lazy."

Moments later, Sting scooped me up and carried me. Warmth spread across my cheeks. "STING! You baka, put me down!" I yelled, smacking him.

He smirked. "Not happening, Blondie," he teased, kissing my forehead.

"You're blushing redder than Erza's hair," he said. I felt my face warm up even more.

Erza and Kiyoko had left earlier, and Minerva was still gone. She was probably staying at Fairy Tail if she had finished retrieving Milliana.

"H-hey, shut up," I mumbled.

Before I could say another word, he took off my wig and mask, tossing them into my room. Then, he carried me to the living room.

It was actually nice to finally do away with the wig and the mask. Sting grinned at me goofily, tugging at my blond hair. "Blondie, let's play!"

Being the perfect gentleman he was, Sting decided to move first. I rolled my eyes before moving a pawn two squares forwards. The game continued.

Rogue dozed in and out of sleep, watching us with tired eyes. Sting and I talked softly, teasing and pissing each other off.

I yawned, leaning against the couch. "G'night, Sting. Better sleep since we've got training tomorrow."

I heard Sting chuckle. "Go to sleep, Blondie."

* * *

OMAKE 2: Dreams of a Bee

I appeared in a meadow with yellow flowers. Squinting, I saw an unfinished daisy chain in my lap. "What the fuck," I muttered, tossing it to the side.

Standing up, I dusted my frilly blue dress.

Wait.

FRILLY BLUE DRESS.

"WHAT THE FUCK!" I yelled. Did someone change me or something? I would definitely never agree to wear something like this.

As I looked down at my attire, I got more and more annoyed. Along with the fucking blue dress, I was wearing a flowery headband, white socks to my knees, black shoes, and a white apron thing. I face palmed.

"Of all things, an apron? What the hell? I can't even cook!" I asked.

"I seriously have to change!"

Suddenly, a pink rabbit raced by me. "What shall I do with these clothes?" he murmured, thinking and shaking his head.

My eyes widened. HE HAD MY CLOTHES! My beautiful suspenders and boots and vest and manly clothes! I growled, ready to castrate the damn bunny. "Stop right there, you little shit!" I yelled, chasing after him.

Big mistake. All of a sudden I went down. Down, down, down. The ground beneath me withdrew and I was free-falling.

"That god damn rabbit," I said, squeezing my eyes shut. I was going to die in a dress because of a fucking rabbit. What were the odds?

Then it stopped. I was hovering above the ground. I grinned. "So this is how that little sky dragon slayer must feel!" Feeling pretty cool, I began to maneuver around through the air while marveling at my new power.

That didn't last long.

I fell face-first in hot, sticky mud covered by dry leaves. "Fuck," I grumbled, picking leaves off of my face.

"Miss Alice, are you lost?"

I spat out a bunch of leaves, sending the owner of the voice my most deadly glare. "What the FUCK did you just call me?"

The pink rabbit looked down at me, blinking in badly contained surprise. I stared at him in confusion. "Orga?"

Orga stood before me, dressed in the pink rabbit suit. Standing up, I glared at him. "Look, you've got a lot of explaining to do. Give me my fucking clothes, baka."

He snorted before clearing his throat and continuing in his polite manner of speaking. This was nothing like Orga, who was aggressive and noisy. "I believe you are mistaken, Miss Alice. However..." He scrunched his nose. "You do not look appropriate in the slightest with that type of apparel."

I rolled my eyes and grabbed the clothes before changing behind a giant cupboard. "Whatever. How the hell do I get out of this damn

hell hole?"

Orga, or "Mister Rabbit", cleared his throat timidly. "You have to best me."

"Been there, done that."

Rolling up my sleeves, I prepared to fight him.

"No! The Grand Catepillar must decide what the race shall be!" Orga replied. He led me through a jungle before we arrived at a giant pink toadstool.

"That's a crazy color for a mushroom," I commented, staring. Orga shushed me.

A pink catepillar with black hair slithered over, staring at me with an expressionless look. My jaw dropped and I burst out laughing. It was Rogue smoking a pipe in a giant catepillar suit! "Oh, another one. This one isn't a little blond girl, though. At least that one was less ugly."

I glared, offended.

"What? Someone else passed?" I asked harshly.

He nodded. "Yes, that Alice girl. She's quite an interesting one, though. She kept on calling herself Lucy."

Rogue shook his head in disapproval. "And she came up with the absurd name of Rogue for me! Even dared call me Rogue-kun."

I hesitated before shutting up. "Okay. If Blondie could pass, this should be easy for me."

"You two shall compete in a flying contest! Lift-off is from the top of that tree over there." Rogue pointed to the highest tree, which seemed to rise up into the clouds.

"The fuck. The rabbit can't even fly, and neither can I."

Rogue sighed. "Yes, you can. Alice did it, so you must."

"You're insane, Rogue."

The rabbit and I started to climb the tree. Up and up until I felt like I couldn't breathe. When we finally arrived at the top, Rogue screamed, "Ready? Set. Go!"

"I'll beat you at this!" Orga yelled. The rabbit raced over the ledge, diving downwards.

I smirked. "Good-bye." Hey, I could've stopped him, but it was his death wish. I peered over the ledge, watching him crash into the ground far below.

He never came back up.

I climbed down the tree, seeing a waiting Rogue. "Well, I forgot rabbits can't fly. Oh, well. It's time for you to meet the Mad Hatter. Go on."

Rolling my eyes, I waved good-bye at my partner. The forest was huge and I found myself getting lost. "Oh, great," I said. I had seen the same "L" figure on a large tree more than twice.

"How am I going to get out of this damn forest?" I asked, frustrated.

"You might want to follow me?" Lector appeared before me, grinning widely. His purple fur was now striped, and he had an incredibly wide set of teeth.

"Lector, what happened to you?"

My exceed suddenly disappeared. "Lector? I know of no such person. I am the Cheshire Cat. You seem awesome, though! Let me lead you out of the forest!"

"Can you take me to the Mad Hatter, then?" I asked him. He appeared again, still grinning.

"Of course!"

He disappeared and appeared in different trees each time. Then, Lector was no where to be seen.

"Tea and cookies, perhaps?"

I turned towards the source of the voice.

Minerva and Rufus materialized before me, smiling brightly. A bored Kiyoko sighed, falling asleep every few seconds.

"What are you doing here, Rufus, Minerva, Kiyoko?" I asked. Rufus was not wearing his mask. Instead, he had white face paint and badly applied blush on his face. Not only was his face absurd, his clothing belonged to an era of a century ago. Minerva was the same, dressed in mismatched clothing. Her usual eye make up was no where to be seen, and she wore bunny ears.

"Well, you see, it's six o'clock. Tea time! And, also, I am the Mad Hatter." Rufus explained.

"Yes. And I'm the March Hare. We'll be giving you trivia questions before you pass along like little Alice did." Minerva said, smiling.

Both Minerva and Rufus woke Kiyoko, shaking her violently.

"What guild are you apart of?" Kiyoko asked before falling asleep.

"Uh, Sabertooth," I replied, raising an eyebrow.

Kiyoko sat up straight, wide-eyed. "Wrong! You're apart of the Jiggly Butt Gang!"

I glared and glared. "Damn it, this is the stupidest thing ever."

I pushed past them, walking away. "Have fun at the Queen's Croquet grounds!" Rufus called.

Walking away, I noticed a couple of life-size cards trying to paint roses red. "What the fuck. Idiots," I said, rolling my eyes.

As I walked past them, I came upon a field.

"You!" a voice shouted.

"What?" I asked.

"That's the Queen of Hearts...er, what's your name? Isn't it Alice? But then that blond girl is Alice...so you must be Al!" Lector said, thinking.

"It's Sting, Lector, er, Cheshire Cat."

The Queen of Hearts approached me and announed, "You must join us and play croquet!" I gaped. Master Iris stood, twisting a large ruby heart ring on her finger and sporting huge bushy red hair.

"What's croquet?" I whispered to Lector. He gave me an astonished look before disappearing.

"You! Next to the boy Alice!" The Queen of Hearts yelled.

Lector kept on vanishing, which made the Queen of Hearts very angry.

"OFF WITH YOUR HEAD!"

The royal guard rushed at Lector, but only his head was visible. "Er, your majesty, we can't. He's only got a head."

Master Iris fumed. "You! Are you Lector's owner?" she asked me.

"Well, yeah. Well, no. We're best friends, but he's stayed with me forever." I said.

"OFF WITH YOUR HEAD!" she roared.

"But who's gonna play croquet with you?" I asked nervously. I didn't want my head off.

She stopped. "Fine. Grab a flamingo and use it to hit the hedge hogs. If you win this, I'll behead you quickly."

"What the fuck—"

"Don't anger the queen any further," Lector whispered.

I used the flamingo and hit the hedge hogs through the hoops.

Soon, everything went wrong. Flamingos and hedge hogs went every way. Since everything was chaotic, I took the chance to slip away.

"Great, I got away," I said, relieved.

"What are you doing here, Sting?"

I turned, gulping. I recognized her voice anywhere—the very pissed off voice of Lucy Heartfilia.

"Uh...I got stuck here because of Orga?" I squeaked.

My eyes popped out of my head when I saw what she was wearing.

Lucy's blond hair was up in her signature side pony tail tied by a baby blue ribbon. She wore black spider gloves and fishnet stockings paired with shiny blue gladiator heels. A skimpy blue dress clung to her form, ending at mid-thigh. Her eyelids were dark and smoky, and she gave off a goth aura.

"What are you wearing?" I yelled, covering my eyes. I felt flustered and my cheeks were getting hotter by the minute.

Lucy rolled her eyes, hands on hips. "It was either this or an apron." She held up a hand. "Don't ask."

I shrugged. "Let's get out of this hell hole."

Lucy nodded. "Yeah."

We walked off, trying to find an exit.

Suddenly, a hand tugged on mine. "Stingy~"

"You're so handsome."

I blinked. The hell?

Turning back, my eyes went wide in terror.

It was Master Bob of Blue Pegasus.

* * *

Damn. I feel bad for Sting. He deserves it!

XDDDDDD

REVIEW REVIEW AND REVIEW AND. I will UPDATE FASTER


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Fairy Tail, Adventure, Hurt-Comfort