During the Seven Years

Chapter 4

As I finally reach the top of the mountain, sweat trickles down my forehead, mingling with the cool breeze that brushes against my skin. The climb had been grueling; the sun blazed overhead, making each step feel heavier as I navigated the winding path that seemed to stretch on for miles. With each breath, I could feel the weight of my nerves amplifying. Why had they summoned me? A nagging feeling whispered that I wouldn't be able to handle whatever they wanted alone.

I pause at the grand entrance of the Magic Council headquarters, taking a moment to compose myself. The imposing structure looms above me, its majestic architecture a reminder of the authority it holds over the magical world. Two guards stand watch at the entrance, their eyes sharp and assessing. My heart races as I approach, the intensity of their stares making me feel small and vulnerable.

"State your name and business!" one of the guards barks, narrowing his eyes in scrutiny. I swallow hard, my stomach churning as I run a hand through my hair, trying to shake off the jitters.

"Hello, my name is Lucy Heartfilia," I say, striving to keep my voice steady despite the nervous flutter in my chest. I offer a nervous but genuine smile, hoping it conveys my sincerity. "I was informed by the master of my guild that the Magic Council wanted to have a word with me."

The guards exchange wary glances, their expressions unreadable. I can feel the tension in the air, and my stomach twists with uncertainty. After a moment, one of them nods, lifting the heavy door with a grunt. "Alright. You can enter. The receptionist is right through those doors, and she will be happy to assist you."

"Thank you so much," I reply, stepping inside.

The interior of the building is grand, with polished marble floors and walls adorned with intricate tapestries depicting historical events of the magical world. My heart hammers in my chest as I navigate through the spacious lobby, feeling small beneath the high ceilings and the weight of the council's legacy.

At the reception desk, a woman looks up from her paperwork. She greets me with a professional smile, though her gaze is sharp and appraising. "Hello! Welcome to the Magic Council Headquarters!" Her tone is bright, but I can sense the underlying caution in her demeanor. "What can I help you with today?"

"Hey. I was summoned here by the Magic Council?" I reply, my voice steady despite my nerves.

"What's your name?" she asks, her pen poised over a clipboard.

"Lucy," I say, trying to keep my response as clear as possible.

"And what guild are you part of?"

"Um... Fairy Tail..." I admit, a slight hesitation creeping into my voice. I brace myself for her reaction; Fairy Tail is known for its chaotic reputation, despite our many heroic deeds.

Her expression shifts as she processes my answer. "Hmmm..." she hums, narrowing her eyes as she begins to sift through a stack of papers. I shift uncomfortably, a knot forming in my stomach. Perhaps she's skeptical of me because of my guild's history. We've saved countless lives, but our past is marred with destruction and wild antics.

"So...?" I prompt, trying to keep the conversation moving.

"Okay. I found it," the receptionist finally states, her demeanor softening as she looks up at me with a warm smile. "Please have a seat, and I'll let them know right away."

Relieved, I nod and move to the waiting area, where a few chairs are arranged in a neat row. The receptionist picks up a lacrima and begins tapping at it, signaling for my audience with the council. I settle into a chair, trying to quell the bubbling anxiety within me.

To distract myself, I pick up a magazine lying on the coffee table, flipping through its glossy pages. One page features a photograph of the Allied Forces celebrating their victory over the Oracion Seis, and I chuckle to myself, remembering how excited Jason had been when he captured that photo. His enthusiasm was contagious, and the memory brings a sense of warmth to my heart. I turn to the next page, where Mirajane is showcased, radiant and powerful in a stunning pose. Her presence is captivating, and I can't help but feel a surge of pride for my guildmates.

"Lucy, they're ready for you," the receptionist says abruptly, pulling me back to the present. Her voice carries a sense of urgency that sends a fresh wave of determination through me. I look over at her, heart racing anew.

"Thank you," I reply, standing up and smoothing my skirt nervously. This is it. The moment I've been anticipating is finally here. I hope I can prove myself worthy of their trust and expectations. Whatever they want from me, I'm ready to face it. I take a deep breath, steadying my nerves, and walk toward the door that leads to the council chamber, a sense of resolve surging through me.

As I step through the doorway, I remind myself that I'm not just representing myself—I'm representing Fairy Tail, and I'll do my best to uphold our guild's legacy and spirit.