During the Seven Years

Chapter 1

The sun streams through my window as I groan in annoyance, reluctantly pulling myself from the warmth of my bed. I stretch my arms overhead and glance around my room, a warm smile spreading across my face. Another day dawns, and I can't help but wonder what adventures await me today. Maybe I'll go on another mission with Erza, Natsu, Gray, Wendy, Happy, and Carla!

After splashing cold water on my face and taking a quick bath, I go through my morning routine: brushing my hair, applying a little makeup, and choosing my outfit. I settle on a white skirt paired with a pink, long-sleeved shirt and white tennis shoes. Feeling cheerful, I run a hand through my hair and dance around the room, excitement bubbling in my chest.

I grab my celestial spirit keys and summon Plue, carefully cradling him in my arms, and head towards the guildhall. A soft wind tousles my hair as I walk, and my heart races with anticipation. I can't wait to see everyone! Fairy Tail means everything to me -- it's the best decision I ever made. The guild feels like family, and it's always an adventure.

Upon entering the guildhall, I'm greeted by a chaotic scene: dozens of members huddled around the mission board, shouting excitedly. Natsu leaps forward, snatching a job and racing toward Mirajane, who stands behind the bar, her usual calm demeanor contrasting with the frenzy around us.

"I need you to check this off!" Natsu exclaims, practically bouncing on his feet as Mirajane nods in approval.

"Hey, Natsu! Are we...?" I begin to ask, but he cuts me off.

"Not now, Lucy! I'm going on a solo mission!"

With that, he dashes out of the guildhall, and moments later, Gray and Elfman charge past me, followed by a few other guild members. Confusion sets in as I tilt my head, trying to make sense of the sudden rush.

I stroll over to Mirajane, who's pouring lemonade for Wendy. "Hello, Mira, Wendy!" I chirp, and the two look up at me, mirroring my cheerful expression. "It sure is chaotic this morning." I furrow my eyebrows in concentration. "Do you know what's happening?"

Mira smiles knowingly. "Yes, it happens every year," she explains, setting the glass on the bar. "In the next few days, the master will make an announcement and select seven candidates for promotion to S-Class."

Wendy's eyes light up. "Wow! That's so cool, Mira!"

I nod, contemplating the news. "I get why everyone's acting like this now," I say, running a hand through my hair. "They want to complete as many jobs as possible to catch the master's eye for a promotion."

"Exactly! It's a really big deal," Mirajane confirms.

Just then, the sound of approaching footsteps captures my attention. I turn to see the master himself standing there, his warm yet serious gaze landing on me. "Lucy, my child, I need to speak with you for a moment," he says, an uneasy feeling settling in the pit of my stomach. What could he want to talk to me about?

I take a deep breath and nod, suppressing my nerves as I follow him to his office. My mind races with possibilities -- hopefully, I'm not in trouble.