During the Seven Years

Chapter 20

My eyes snap open, and I blink against the dim light filtering through the fabric above me. As I slowly sit up, I realize I'm inside a tent, with the soft murmur of my teammates' breaths nearby. Jellal, Meredy, and Ultear lie sleeping next to me, looking exhausted even in slumber. I press my lips together in thought, trying to piece together what happened. How did we end up in a tent? Maybe one of them had it hidden away in their cloak.

I let out a deep sigh and gently step outside, careful not to wake the others. The night sky stretches endlessly above me, stars scattered like distant lanterns against the darkness. I feel a jolt of surprise—how long was I out for? I didn't expect to be unconscious until nightfall. Closing the tent behind me, I find a nearby log and sit down, the quiet night air whispering around me as a cool breeze rustles my hair.

I rest my head in my hand, letting the exhaustion settle over me. So much has changed so quickly. My friends are lost on Tenrou Island, and I've found myself aligning with former criminals to locate these mysterious planet spirits. And then there's the intense trial to unlock my Second Origin, which still feels like a blur of pain. My body aches, a stark reminder of the sacrifice, but at least I'm a step closer to the strength I'll need for what lies ahead.

Suddenly, a flash of warm light interrupts my thoughts, and I look up to see Loke standing before me, his familiar smile a comforting sight amidst all the uncertainty. "Lucy, it's good to see you again," he says, his voice soft but filled with relief. "When that woman attacked you, I couldn't do a thing. I'm sorry..."

"Loke, it's not your fault. You did the best you could."

He shakes his head, the frustration evident on his face. "I'm supposed to be your protector, Lucy. I promised I would be there when you needed me, yet I was powerless against her. I failed you when you needed me most."

I smile softly. "Loke, don't say that," I interrupt, squeezing his shoulder. "You've been by my side through everything. And, even though that woman overpowered us, we managed to get out of that situation." I offer a small, reassuring smile. "There's no doubt that we were outmatched, but we've been given another chance to get stronger. I know we can do this as long as we work together."

Loke's face softens, a hint of pride flickering in his eyes. "Thank you, Lucy. I feel the same." We sit in companionable silence for a moment, the quiet of the night surrounding us, and I find myself feeling a little lighter just from his presence.

After a pause, Loke takes a step closer, a serious expression returning to his face. "Lucy," he begins, his tone purposeful. "There's something I've been meaning to give you." Reaching into his pocket, he pulls out a gleaming golden key, the symbol of Capricorn etched proudly into its design. My eyes widen as I take in the sight. Capricorn's key? I can't believe it!

"What?" I breathe, unable to keep the surprise out of my voice. "Please explain."

Loke inclines his head, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "During the S-Class trials on Tenrou Island, I fought a man named Zoldeo, who had taken control of Capricorn's body. With Capricorn's help, we defeated him. After that, Capricorn entrusted me with his key and asked me to bring it to you." He extends the key toward me. "He wishes to form a contract with you."

"With me?" I stare at him, stunned. "But... why?"

Loke chuckles softly. "You have a strong reputation in the celestial spirit world, Lucy. Many spirits admire you, not just for your strength, but for the way you treat us—with respect and kindness." He gently places the key in my hand. "If you wish, Capricorn will serve you as your spirit."

A grin spreads across my face as I clutch the key. "Thank you, Loke. I'd be honored to form a contract with him."

Loke nods, a warm smile lighting up his face. "Of course. I knew he'd be in good hands with you."

As I turn the key over in my hand, feeling its weight and significance, another thought springs to mind, a question I've been afraid to ask. "Loke," I say, meeting his gaze. "Do you know what happened to my friends on Tenrou Island? I know Grimoire Heart attacked, but..."

Loke's smile fades slightly as he looks down, regret shadowing his face. "I'm afraid I don't know exactly. After the fight with Zoldeo, I returned to the celestial spirit world. But Grimoire Heart's presence there was no small matter."

A pang of worry strikes me, but I squeeze Loke's shoulder in gratitude. "Thank you, Loke, for everything you've done. It means a lot to know even a little bit of what happened."

He places a comforting hand over mine. "Stay strong, Lucy. You've grown so much, and you're surrounded by people who believe in you." After a pause, he pulls his hand back, a regretful look crossing his face. "I need to return to the celestial spirit world. But now that you have Capricorn's key, he can help you grow even stronger. It's something he's well known for."

"Thank you, Loke." I smile, clutching the key tightly. "I won't let you or Capricorn down."

Loke gives me one last warm nod before vanishing in a soft glow. Left alone, I feel the quiet of the night settling back in, and yet, I no longer feel quite so alone. There's a sense of reassurance—of purpose—that I can't help but carry forward. Whatever challenges lie ahead, I'm ready. I owe it to those who believe in me, and to the friends who are waiting for me.