400 years

The Celebration of Victory!

This story is what lead to the April Fool's story on page 71..

I promised I wouldn't leave it out! 😉 besides there is foreshadowing for the next book and characters that you will be reintroduced to as well, in For Our Future! ❤️❤️❤️ I hope you've enjoyed the journey thus far!!

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Finally, it was time to celebrate, yet again another victory. To honor those who had fought hard, in the most recent battle in the southern region, Giltina.

I was excited to see what this large of a party would pertain.

Making my way around the room, as I greeted with smiles and well wishes. Everyone was definitely having a great time.

I happened to walked by a group of women. Ones I'd originally thought to be waitresses..

"Well ladies who's your favorite of the night?" One with short black hair -

"Lord Rogue! He's soo kind and handsome!"

"Most definitely! He's worldly too! But my votes on Sting. Those sharp eyes and-!"

"He's not better than-!"

Slightly rolling my eyes, I chuckled and continued on my way as I blocked out the girls giggles and chattering.

These men were warlords, however not all of history is correct. And not all men cheat! 'Hmph!' Besides any flaws one another may have, they all are very loyal to their partners. With a smug smile to myself, I skimmed the room.

Seeing Gajeel and Levi laughing and enjoying a joke along with Gray and Juvia. Even Jellal seemed to be just as content weaseling Erza out of her drinks. 'Hmm, I wonder why? Could she be a light weight?'

'Nah, no way?' The thought left me shrugging.

I was about to turn around to go back to playing hostess when —

I heard it.. One of the ladies started to fawn over a VERY familiar description.

"Yeah, what about the dark horse of the party? Haha or should I say flaming beast."

"Lord Natsu! Right, I can't believe he's actually enjoying a party with us. I've never seen him this close before."

Wait a minute, they ARE talking about MY flaming beast?

"Yeah no kidding. He use to be super scary!"

"Mhm, ooh I want to pour him a drink too!"

"Yeah but he's completely unapproachable. So many dancers per table, ya know?"

"Mhm, right."

'D-Dancers!?' I choked on my breath.

Then I noticed the pattern..

These 'waitresses', were surrounding each one of the tables. Dancing and pouring the men drinks. There were even one or two around Gajeel and Gray..

"Oops, Lord Natsu. You seem to be out again."

A sweet giggling sound caught my attention as her voice echoed above the chattering.

'What the- what's going on.. back there-!'

On top toes, I glanced to the head of hall, where Natsu usually sat. 'Holy cats!' There was Natsu, just visible through the crowd of vassals and several dancers. Each girl took turns pouring his drink. Not forgetting to pet him as they did so.

My anger started to tick as I approached. As more murmured excitement in their voices echoed in my ears. Bu everyone that I passed, who'd perviously greeted him.

"Mm, Natsu sure does look tasty.."

"Giggles, Kiria. Shhh better not let anyone hear you say that."

Hidden behind the wall of entranced vassals, I watched as a slim, young- looking woman with green eyes and prominent dark brows, dressed with many dark green ribbons filled Natsu's cup. Who drank without enthusiasm.

The little group of dancers sighed in awe.

Natsu once again held out his cup, almost wearily, like he'd done this many times already.  I watched a moment longer, the cup was filled, he drank. Rinse and repeat.

Well at least he doesn't seem to be enjoying it..

As much as I wanted to storm over the and give my two scents.. I decided against it. These girls are from the town of Dragnof after all. And though most of everyone believes Natsu was killed. This followers know other wise, and it'd be good for him to get a little clout from them..

'But that doesn't mean I have to stand here and watch!'

Lucy left the audience hall, missing Natsu's listless gaze that searched for her among the crowd.

'I-I'm jealous.. eh.. this won't do. I have nothing to worry about..'

Taking a deep breath of fresh air, I noticed a soft light in the distance. Then I noticed three figures heading my way..

Gildarts, Macao, and Wakaba's pipe glittered with a reddish orange gleam as he took another puff.

"How curious, what brings you out here girl? Your missing the end of the party."

"I-I'm just tired." But really I'm in a funk.. I don't believe Natsu would do anything, but the horrible image still haunts my mind.

"But you'll miss the big finally. All the girls line up and dance." Macao gushed with excitement.

"They'll also-."

"Yes, well I'm sure it's very entertaining, but I'm not feeling well. I'll hear about it later, I'm sure!"

I don't like my head in this funny place, I need to clear it..

So I waved to the red of them, I'm sure Gildarts will catch me up on the details later.

.......

Gildarts sighed, looking after Lucy as she left.

"Your in for it now, lord Natsu."

"Mhmm." Wakaba huffed, along with a puff of smoke.

"The boy will need saving in the morning, Gildarts." Macao chuckled as he patted Gildarts on the shoulder.

"Aye, but tonight I'm grabbing some sake and a hottie!"

The three men laughed and carried on as they entered the hall.

'Young lady, your in good hands. Chin up, and a little hell never hurt man.' Gildarts quietly said, predicting a happy ending.