Song: Farewell Life (Slow + Reverb)
      By: Arn Anderson

~One Year Later~

~Natsu~

The atmosphere in the Council Room was tense. The miniature landscape on the round table had grown over the year with small towns and cities with Drakonia's flag over them as our alliance has strengthened. Yusei and I stood together in uniform, at attention, while the Councilors spoke together with leaders from other countries over a visual lacrima. King Toma and two more Kings were in a heated discussion with Igneel and Metalicana whilst Grandeeney tried to mediate. The other Councilors rubbed their temples as if they were already tired of hearing about the situation that had unfolded over the past few months. Yusei and I were remaining silent standing a foot away from the round table listening, and processing what the commotion was.

Seven months ago, the country of Joya had fallen overnight.

"Councilors, I urge you to send assistance to Bosco! Joya has fallen into the hands of the Dark Guilds. Stella is under siege! Civilians all over are beginning to panic as the Dark Magic continues to grow! It will only be a matter of time before they are at our doorsteps!" The King of Bosco exclaimed. He was a middle-aged man that had recently become allies with Drakonia as the land was exchanged for better military support.

Igneel sighed whilst massaging the bridge of his nose. "I understand Your Highness, but what has happened in Joya was a thoroughly planned sieged attack. What should be important right now is getting the citizens out of the war zone before more lives are lost in the causality." The Councilors agreed with Igneel. King Toma spoke up. "I can have the Protectors of Fiore go volunteer to hold back the Dark Guilds from spreading further out to ensure the Joya citizens can escape to Bosco."

"We can't take in more mouths to feed! There are riots and Dark Mages already making a move into my country! My people are about to kill each other if we don't have help sent to us. Councilors, you promised me if I had to seek out help you would give me an army. No questions asked. No arguments. Period. I gave you more land than I had to; I expect to be compensated for my generosity!" Skiadrum's face turned sour as he was about to spit an insult when Igneel cut his eyes to him. "You're right, Your Highness. That was the agreement we made six months ago. I remember." Igneel leaned back in his chair then looked to his Councilors. They all seemed to speak only with their eyes as they were all in agreement with something. Igneel sighed. "We cannot give you an army this very second, but, we have a special regiment that is the best of the best. They are the finest twelve soldiers with Yusei as their Scale Master. He's a master of the khopesh blade and a master strategist to battle. He can aid you in any way you need him and his squadron too. We will also take the civilians in your steed." My heart fell hearing what my father said. I was promised this. It was going to be me and my squadron that got to go this time. My face must have given me away when Igneel shook his head at me. "Scale Master Yusei, you and your regiment will leave before nightfall to make your way to Bosco. Until further instructions, you are to remain with His Highness and show respect to the King of Bosco." Yusei bowed and did a curt nod. "Yes, my Councilor." Yusei stood back up and turned to leave. When his face was away from the Councilors he smugly grinned at me then walked out of the Council Room.

That son of a bitch. My nails were digging into my palms. I was shaking from how furious I was. This was to be my and my squadron's mission! This was the mission that would prove to the Councilors I can do out-of-country missions! I took a deep breath to focus on the discussions. The king of Bosco huffed with his face frowning. "That wasn't the agreement Councilor Igneel...but it will do for now. I expect an army at my doorstep before this is over, or else, I will reclaim what is rightfully mine."

"Your Highness, there is no need for threats in our chambers. You will have an army before the end of the month. We appreciate your patience. Have no fear, Scale Master Yusei and his regiment will be a great assist until we ready our able-bodied soldiers." Grandeeney said with an acquiescent expression. The King of Bosco huffed again but dropped the frown from his face. "I will take your word for it, my Lady. Reach out to me when I hear word of the army on its way." The King ended the lacrima when all was left was King Toma and the Councilors. Igneel sighed as his shoulders sagged from the invisible weight. "King Toma, I would appreciate all the help you can send to our ally in Bosco. Any mage that wishes to volunteer shall be greatly awarded when the country of Bosco is secured once more. We'll discuss the agreed Jewels another time." King Toma nodded. "As you wish, Councilor Igneel. Have no worries, my friend. I will do all I can to help one ally from another." Igneel smiled yet his eyes seemed so tired. "Thank you, Your Highness. We will speak again soon." The lacrima shattered and the image of the King vanished. Igneel fell back into his seat and grumbled as did the rest of the Councilors. Grandeeney was the only one that seemed composed. "We have to ready the soldiers, Igneel." She said. Weisslogia placed his arms on the table before speaking. "We don't have the manpower His Highness is expecting, Igneel. Though we have the finest soldiers he will want around 10,000 soldiers. The best we can do is send 1,500 to him. And that's barely sparing any defenses for the Capital."

"Let Yusei and his regiment prove to his King that all he needs is 1,000 soldiers. We can't leave our country defenseless for the sake of a promise. Our citizens come first before all else." Igneel replied. I unclenched my hands sighing again. "Permission to speak freely, Councilors?" I asked and all their heads turned to me. Igneel's face fell grim. "You may speak to me personally, Scale Master Dragneel." The other Councilors took that as a sign to leave the two of us alone. The five Councilors all filed out when Grandeeney placed her hand on my shoulder. "Please listen before you act brash, Natsu," Grandeeney whispered then left with the rest of the Councilors. Igneel stood up and came around the table until he was leaning against the table in front of me. "At ease, son. It's just us."

"I'd rather discuss this between Councilor and Scale Master. Keep it professional." I replied staying at attention. Igneel cracked a grin then shook his head. "Alright. I know you're upset. I promised you if there was another out-of-country mission I would give it to you."

"I'm more than upset Councilor. If I'm speaking freely, I like to say I'm very pissed off." I said. Igneel nodded crossing his arms. "I know you are." He said with serious eyes. "Yusei has experience when it comes to these matters. He was our best option at the moment of snap decision. The King of Bosco has us in a corner and it's my fault for that. I have to ensure His Highness will be happy with the aid we can give him." I glared at my father. "So you don't trust me with this task?"

"I didn't say that," Igneel said defensively. "You're not ready for those kinds of missions, Natsu. You are needed here in the Capital. You're needed in Drakonia."

"Bullshit." I also crossed my arms breaking attention formation. "You and I and the Council both know I'm ready to lead my squad on an out-of-country mission. What I can't understand is why I'm being held back! You promised me this would be my mission! You said it to my face that it was mine!"

"I'm your father Natsu but you don't question my decisions on these matters. Yusei is going! End of discussion!"

"We need more men out there! My regiment and I are more than capable of going with Yusei and his squad!" Igneel's face glowered. "No. We need a Scale Master in Drakonia. The Scale Masters first priority is Peace and Stability by the People, for the People. You made that oath when you became Scale Master. One may leave, but the other must stay." I clenched my jaw. My blood was burning with rage listening to my old man. "Then swear another Scale Master. Drakonia is growing and so is our military! If we need to have a Scale Master then swear one in so my scouts and I can leave!"

"No one is ready for the task. You are staying." Igneel finalized then began to walk away. I was beginning to see red. My chest was breathing so heavily I was seeing stars. "Why won't you let me do this Igneel!? I'm more ready than ever to help Drakonia and our allies to keep our people safe! Why won't you let me do this for you!?"

Igneel snapped now looking back at me with flaming eyes. "BECAUSE I CAN'T LOSE YOU!"

The room was silent. The red in my vision gradually went away when Igneel wheezed and gasped for air. It was like he was holding his breath for too long and became dizzy. I stepped forward but didn't reach out to him when he stabilized himself. "Tsk, I didn't want to tell you the truth, alright? I...I know it's selfish of me to hold you back, but...there's nothing I can do if something happens to you..."

"I know that Dad, but I have to help. By the People, for the People, remember? I've been through worse than Dark Mages trying to take over EarthLand. I've been in four wars in a span of two years. I can do this." Igneel grimaced. His face didn't leave the floor as he couldn't even look at me. "I know you can...I just-...I got you back two years ago. These last two years have been the best years of my long life. It's not that I don't trust you Natsu, it's that...that if you leave...you won't want to come back."

"Dad..." I clasped his shoulder when he laughed coldly. "Your father is a selfish man. When I should have been supporting you and giving you the mission I promised, I broke it so you could stay close to me. If I had my way I would never let you leave the castle, but that's too selfish. You're a grown man now; not the little boy I once knew that could barely read let alone write. I'm sorry. I understand if you're furious with me. You have every right to be." I shook my dad's shoulder to look at me. His silted eyes found my face when I showed him a smile. "I'm not mad. Two years ago you had every right to throw me out of the city after the awful things I said to you. Instead, you gave me a home. You gave me a second chance at life after I lost my first one."

"I was never angry at you when that happened. Even when you were saying those things I had already forgiven you. I should have reached out to you sooner, but your old man is a coward. A selfish coward." I gently pushed Igneel and sighed. "Stop saying things that aren't true. If I hadn't come here I would probably be some rabid thing living in the woods eating on tree bark or something. You saved me Igneel. You saved me." Igneel kept his eyes on me realizing what I said to him. He smiled with sad eyes and patted my shoulder. "You're a good kid. Heh, what am I saying? You're not a kid anymore."

"No, I'm not a kid anymore, but you'll always be my dad." Igneel smiled when I said that. He let go of my arm before directing me to the door. "I already gave this mission to Yusei, but you are needed Natsu. In a matter of weeks, we will have hungry people that lost their homes and all they've known. You will need to help them."

"Are they coming to the Capital?" I asked. Igneel nodded. "We have the best walls to keep them safe. We also have better resources to feed and care for them until they can get back on their feet. You will be responsible for preparing the East District of the Capital for the survivors. Use any resource that you can get. Find volunteers for healers, cooks, anyone that is willing to help."

"I understand my task Councilor. I'll start readying the paperwork and I will send my squad to find volunteers." I bowed and then left the Council's Chamber. I let out a sigh. That wasn't what I was expecting to happen today, but it's done. Yusei and his stupid face will be going to Bosco, and I will be here. I began walking back to my room to sort the paperwork that will need to begin this process. Yeri and Maryi were in my room putting away clean clothes and sweeping the floor when I entered. "Good evening, Sir Natsu," Yeri said as the twins bowed in unison. "Hey, you two. Cleaning up my pigsty?" I asked. Yeri finished the last dresser. "Always, Sir Natsu. Without us, I'm sure this room would be cluttered with filth." Yeri replied. Two years and the twins are finally showing their personality. It was a nice change of pace. "Har, har. When you're finished can you go find Dahlia for me? I have to get started on reports." Yeri bowed. "I'll retrieve her at once." Yeri snuck out of the door leaving Maryi sweeping the floor and me already writing the process of what must be done. I calculated the number of healers needed based on how many survivors were coming in two weeks and the percentage of food needed. Without a knock, the bedroom door opened showing a tall Dragon with purple hair and yellow slit irises. Dahlia was my Assist Commander when she joined my regiment almost a year ago. She was the first to say hello to me, but she was also the first Dragon to show me respect. Dahlia helped me and my scouts learn more about each other; over time I had no doubt my squad had loyal ties to me and I to them. Just like Yusei, I had twelve of the finest soldiers to call my own. They were the best of the best. And just like me, they also had a rivalry with Yusei's regiment.

"You called for me, Master?" Dahlia purred placing herself to sit on my desk. "Again, Dahlia, you can just call me Natsu," I mumbled writing away with the quill. Dahlia crossed her legs. "I can't disrespect my Scale Master like that. Besides, I happen to like calling you master, Master." Dahlia knew many ways how to make me uncomfortable. I gave her the most baffled look imaginable when she began to laugh. "Sorry! Sorry was that too weird?!" Dahlia laughed holding her stomach due to laughing so hard. "Very." I replied trying not to cringe at Dahlia's joke. The report was finished when I signed my signature at the bottom. I folded the paper and handed it to Dahlia. "I need you and the squad to start preparing volunteers to go to the East District. We have a minimum of two weeks to ready the Joya citizens their temporary home." Dahlia's brows narrowed when her smile vanished. "It was true then. Joya has fallen by the Dark Guilds. Wait, if it has fallen then why aren't we going to assist there?"

"Cause' we're not going. Yusei and his squadron are." Dahlia's jaw dropped. "Yusei!? Even after you were promised the next mission they gave it to Yusei and his crew!?" Dahlia stood up with her arms raised. "What was the Council thinking!? You are more than ready to lead us on an out-of-country mission! I mean, how insulting is that to your leadership and us! I should go speak to them and convince them we're ready to go!"

"Dahlia no. It's fine. I already gave my father a piece of my mind about it. We'll get the next one. Don't worry about it." My Assist Commander looked at me in utter confusion. "I don't understand how you can be so calm about this. This was gonna be your time to prove to the Council you're ready. That's all you talked about when we were training last week."

"Yeah? Well, plans change." I had my hand out waiting for Dahlia to take the report. She rolled her eyes then snatched the paper. "Fiiine. I'll get some guys ready so we can go door to door. What are you gonna do in the meantime?" The Dragon asked putting the paper in her chest plate. "I'm going to get the workmen to start on temporary houses in the East District. There's plenty of land for the survivors to live there as they are accustomed to the city. We have very little time to work with." I bantered when Dahlia winked. "Good thing you're the best at time management!"

"With your ridiculous appetite to have lunch every five minutes I have to be," I said with a sly grin. Dahlia puffed her cheeks. "Some of us have big appetites." She said sulking. I laughed and shook my head. "Yeah, I thought I had a big appetite! Until I met you."

"Screw you man! Our food is delicious!" Dahlia stormed out and slammed the door like an angry toddler. I returned to writing on my desk shaking my head and chuckling. "Such a child," I murmured under my breath.

~~~~~

Two weeks slowly passed as the East District was nearly complete for the Joya civilians. The laborers worked fast hauling lumber and finishing ten very large housing frames before the end of the first week. We had around 60 healers and 40 cooks to prep meals. Dahlia and I walked together surveying the final finishings for the refugees. The housing was close to completion as I wrote the progress report. Dahlia glanced at the parchment. "You misspelled a word."

"What? Where?" I reread the report not finding what she was talking about. I looked up to face Dahlia when she flicked my nose. She giggled and pointed at me. "Hah! You actually fell for it!" I rubbed my nose and scoffed. "Really Dahlia? Can't you act your age for a change?"

"Actually, I am acting my age, thank you very much. I was considered a young Dragon before we changed forms." My eyebrows raised as I glossed over her appearance. "How old are you Dahlia?"

"I'm sixty-seven if you must know." My mouth dropped. Sixty-seven and here she was looking and acting like a teenager. Dahlia noticed how surprised I was and laughed again. "What! Did you think I was younger? I'd be a toddler if I was in my twenties."

"I mean...well, I just...you're sixty-seven!?"

"Uuhh, yeah? Is that old for humans?" Dahlia asked sincerely. I couldn't talk for a few seconds due to being astounded that I had just found out about this. I gasped then nodded. "Y-Yeah. Grey hair and wrinkles. I thought that was old...but I'm starting to second guess that."

"Wow, so technically I'm older than you." The young Dragon devilishly grinned. "Doesn't that technically make me your superior?" I rolled my eyes. "If that was the case I'm the youngest person in Drakonia's Capital. Go help out or inspect the structure of things. I dunno, just go be useful." Dahlia rolled her eyes this time. "Yes sir." She said with sarcasm. I shook my head then returned to writing more notes on the parchment. Scouts have reported sights of Joya refugees entering Drakonia territory four days ago. They'll be arriving no later than tomorrow. Everything had to be ready so they would be comfortable. So many people lost their homes months ago. They've been living with the good graces of those that wished to help. Drakonia had to be better for them. We had to open our arms to give them a second chance.

Someone cleared their throat to catch my attention. One of my scouts saluted before bowing. "Scale Master Dragneel, we've made contact with the refugees. They will be arriving by noon tomorrow."

"Good to hear. How many people are we working with?" I asked scribbling numbers down. The scout reminded bowing. "They've lost some on the way sir. Their numbers have fallen to almost 300 refugees." I stopped writing. How could that be? There were around 600 people on the way. How could they lose around half of their people? "Any explanation as to how that number fell?" I asked scratching out notes on the parchment.

"They left a war zone. Many were wounded. Stella is under war and Bosco has never been the safest country; especially for women and children. The people are also starving."

"It's worse than I thought." I turned my back on the scout while rolling the parchment up. "Sir, may I add one more detail?" The scout asked. I told him to proceed. "Some of the refugees said they were being followed by Dark Mages. They have been running for months not knowing why they're being hunted."

"They must be looking for someone," I said thinking out loud. The scout nodded. "We thought the same. But these people, I mean no offense, but they are just lower class or middle class. None of them are noble or royalty." That's where I was also stumped. Was there a potential witness that saw the face of the mastermind behind the Dark Guilds working together? It could be the only reasonable option. These people were regular-class. No titles or money to their name. Someone in the group must have seen something they weren't supposed to see, and that person may be our only hope of finding a face. I turned back to look at my scout. "Gather everyone in the squadron. I want all of you to stay with the group of refugees until they are safely behind the Walls. Help any wounded or sick, leave no one behind."

"Yes, Scale Master." The scout bowed once more and then turned to go follow my order. This was more than a refuge mission now, this was a rescue mission. Dahlia returned with her cheeks puffed out. "Well good news is everything is just about done. I got yelled at for touching tools that weren't mine and-...I know that face. Something's come up hasn't it?" Dahlia's face became serious. I looked at her not saying anything for a minute. "Go find the Councilors and tell them to meet me in the Council Chamber. There's a lead now and it relies on the survival of the Joya refugees."

"Yessir. I'll let them know right away." Dahlia sprinted away towards the castle. The parchment in my hand crumbled when I felt my fists clenched. Someone's life was on the line. No matter what happened, that person had to be protected at any cost.

~~~~~

I finished explaining all I found out to the Councilors. They were sitting in their chairs listening to all I had told them when Igneel ran his fingers over his chin. "This changes everything. If there's a witness in the refuge they have to be protected at all costs. Have you sent your squadron?"

"Already with the group. I told them no one is to be left behind. They're aware of the situation."

"Good. The plan is still the same, but we have to be more cautious when they arrive at the city's gates. We don't want any lives to be lost. Natsu, Dahlia, you will be at the East Gate to watch over the Joya civilians as they enter the Capital. If anything seems suspicious or out of character, you know what to do." Grandeeney said with her fists on the table. Metalicana scratch the scruff on his face. "Only 300 refugees...how could their numbers diminish in half? Do we expect more Joya refugees to be coming here?"

"If more come we welcome them with open arms. They have been through enough for a lifetime. We have the resources and money to help anyone that needs sanctuary from the upcoming war." Declared Igneel with his eyes closed. My father opened his tired eyes looking at us. "Well done today you two. The refugees will have temporary homes in the East District thanks to your efforts. Get rest tonight because tomorrow we must be vigilant at all costs." Dahlia and I bowed and then excused ourselves from the Council Room. My Assist Commander exhaled as if she held her breath the entire time. "That was tense. I thought it would be good news but they took it like it was bad."

"Because at any moment we can get news that the refuge group was attacked. Until every person is in the safety of the Capital's Walls this will remain as bad news. If one life is lost it's safe to say we lost the one witness that can change the tide of war."

"Not quite." I furrowed my brows at Dahlia. The Dragon threw her hands behind her head when she began to walk backward. "We know something is bound to happen tomorrow. The Council wouldn't be this skeptical if there wasn't something to worry over. The Dark Mages are gonna attack at any given chance. They may not tonight thanks to the squadron, but if we think like the enemy for a minute, I wouldn't want the person we're looking for passing through the East Gate at any given cost. It might be risky, but they're gonna attack at the last given second. It will cause chaos so great we won't even know where to start. They'll find the person they're looking for...and strike them where they stand." Dahlia stopped her pace and stared at me. "We have to be ready. The moment the chaos starts we move to the nearest enemy and capture them."

"You want a hostage?"

"Not quite," Dahlia said again. "We'll have an informant. They'll tell us who they're looking for and why." I rubbed my jaw in deep concentration. "That's not a bad idea at all Dahlia. We need to go after their leader. They'll know more than anyone else that's on the move for our unknown witness." I stepped forward and fist-bumped Dahlia's shoulder. "Good job Assist Commander." The Dragon rolled her eyes. "Please, you could have come up with that idea. I just help you think faster." A smile came over me. Hearing Dahlia talk reminds me of Lucy in so many ways. She had a smart mouth that can talk faster than her mind processing her thoughts. Honestly, I knew Dahlia was a better strategist than Yusei was, but with her being ranked lower than he was her ideas wouldn't be taken so seriously. I hated that for her. Dahlia was one of the greatest soldiers I have met so far. "Dahlia, I'm letting you take the lead tomorrow."

"What? Wait, what do you mean? You're the Scale Master. I-I can't disrespect your title or your rank Sir. I couldn't- I can't!" Dahlia waved her hands in front of her face. I nodded. "Dahlia, you've proved time and time again that you can lead others. I'm proud of you kid. You're going to be an unofficial Scale Master tomorrow. I'll follow your orders, Lady Dahlia." Dahlia playfully punched my shoulder. "Do not call me Lady. I'm honored, really, but I can't. I'm not a Scale Master and doing your duties is disrespectful to you. I may take jokes too far but I can't undermine your order."

"So you're going to undermine my order of taking the lead tomorrow?" Dahlia opened her mouth, but nothing came out. She was stunned when I said that. Dahlia closed her eyes then sighed. "Son of a bitch."

"Wake up early tomorrow. You're going to be leading the informant mission." Dahlia stared with starry eyes. We both fist-bumped when she chuckled. "Yes sir. See you in the morning." Dahlia waved when she ran down the corridor to go home for the night. I walked laughing to myself at how excited she was about the opportunity. My room was welcoming when I entered after a long day. I drew my cape off to extend my wings out to stretch them. My wings had grown over the year of flight training that it was difficult to keep them behind my back for too long. I did my stretches then gently flapped the wings in the pattern I was trained to. I wasn't so sure about flying right away, but gliding was so easy I think I'm a master of it now. My wings stretched the soreness out after I sighed in exhaustion. I sat at my desk glossing over the paperwork and reports for the last two weeks.

Over 300 people didn't make it when escaping the wars happening. I knew I shouldn't feel responsible for the deaths, but a part of me was ashamed of myself. We should have acted sooner and involved ourselves before it got out of hand. Hell, when Joya fell to ruin seven months ago it happened overnight. The strategy that was used made an entire country fall...in one night. Who's to say when that will happen again? It's understandable why the leaders are panicked about this unknown mastermind calling the shots. Who's to say they will be his next victim? I took a deep breath then exhaled slowly. I was tired, but my eyes wouldn't rest until I drain what was left of my energy. My hand picked up the quill and grabbed a blank parchment paper.

Dear Lucy,

Tomorrow will no doubt be the hardest day yet for me. I don't know how it happened honestly, one moment, you saved the Realms and purged the evil from existence. And now, suddenly, Dark Guilds are destroying everything in their path. I don't understand why these people would do this. It's an insult to your sacrifice after everything you did to save mankind. Personally, I want to find the bastard that orchestrated this villainies plan and end it once and for all. To protect what remains of all you have done for the children of EarthLand is the least I can do in your memory.
I ahh...I still haven't seen your face. The dreams have been unnoticeable. I hardly dream as it is. The last dream I recall was the one a year ago. One year since I can remember any of my dreams... I think you being erased is coming to fruition. I still remember you, Luce, but I can't see you. You're becoming a memory that's too far out of my reach. I'm going to keep trying to see your face, Lucy. I have to do that for you at the very least.
I would update you about Fairy Tail, but truth be told I haven't heard from them in a while. Last I heard Erza gave birth to a boy! His name is Liam. Layla was hoping for a sister, but in the end, I think she was happy to have a sibling. Oh, Gray and Juvia are married. Haven't heard if they started a family or not. Levy and Gajeel are good as are the twins. Wendy and Happy are good too, though I think about Happy a lot. I didn't end things with him on good terms. It was a mess when the downfall happened. I don't want to get more into it.
I wish you were here Lucy. If I could talk and see you for five minutes I would be happy with that. Things...changed. Dahlia, heh, she reminds me of you in so many ways. She's like the daughter I wish we had together. Don't tell her I said that though, if she found out I had a soft spot for her I'll never hear the end of it. I'm going to let her take the lead on tomorrow's mission. We have refugees coming to stay in Drakonia for a while until things simmer down. There's already been a mass loss in numbers for the Joya refugees. Even worse, there's someone we have to find and protect at all costs in the group. If one life is lost when they gather at the Gate tomorrow... our one lead is lost to finding the mastermind behind this upcoming war.
Heh, whenever I write to you Luce I always go off on a tangent. Writing these letters makes me feel so close to you...it's like if I turn around I'll find you sleeping peacefully in our bed. My...bed. Sorry, even after almost nine years of you gone it's hard to not say 'our' things. Everything I still have is yours. My heart, even broken now as it is, will always be yours. I'm too old and too tired to find love again... because truthfully Lucy I can never love another again. You were it. You were my heart and soul...and you took it with you.
I don't want to make this a sob letter. Just know, despite your missing presence in my life...I'm happy. I am...genuinely happy again. It's a start. In time I will continue to heal just as Grandeeney says. Someday I'll go back and visit you in the mausoleum to pay my respects. Until then, I'm going to stay home in Drakonia.

With love,
                 Natsu Dragneel

I folded the paper about to put it in the drawer when someone knocked on my door. I left the letter on top of my desk to answer the door when I found Igneel standing in front of me. "Oh, hey Dad," I said when Igneel looked away. "I was just wanting to check up on you. Tomorrow is-...it's going to be...I don't even have the words to describe it." My face smiled. "Tomorrow is going to be a pain in the ass," I said leaning on the door frame. Igneel laughed whilst scratching the back of his head. "That's one way of putting it."

"We're ready for them Dad. No matter what Dahlia and I are gonna make sure everything works out just fine. We can handle this with additional manpower." Igneel nodded. "I know you two can. You and Dahlia are a great team together. She lifts you as you lift her. I just...I can be a worried father." My old man's eyes looked up at me. His eyes were tired as bags began to show underneath his irises, and even then I could see the worry of the what if's playing through his head. "I'm gonna be fine. I trained for this. By the People, For the People. Joya citizens are guests, making them our people in the meantime."

"I shouldn't worry, but I do. I don't want anything to happen to either of you. You and Dahlia...you're both a fundamental piece in Drakonia's upbringing. And you Natsu...you're my life. I'm trying to be the father that will let you go when you wish to fly off, but even then I still find myself being selfish." Igneel's face softened when he looked at me. "No matter what happens tomorrow at the East Gate, don't do anything irrational. You've gained some common sense but your heart calls the shot on decisions. Don't...Don't do anything I wouldn't do is what I'm trying to say."

"I know. Dad. You're the one that helped train me when I was still new to the military." Igneel nodded which made him smile. His hands found my shoulders when he gave them a quick squeeze. "Right. If you're going to be getting up tomorrow it's best if you get to bed. You'll need all the rest you can get." I agreed then gradually began to close the door. "Night Dad," I said rubbing my eye tiredly. Igneel stayed in front of the door waving back at me. "Good night Son." I closed the door. Waves of sleepiness hit me like a train that I climbed into bed after throwing my uniform on the ground. I fell underneath the covers with the feather pillow propping my head just right. Weariness overtook me and before I knew it I fell into a dreamless sleep.

~~~~~

The leather straps on my gauntlets were too loose. I bit the end of the belt and tugged the best I could with no luck. "Damn, you think I would know how to tighten a belt for Gods sake." Dahlia adjusted her chest plate when she turned to help. "Oh for crying out loud you had it buckled. Undo it that way you can tighten it. Y'know what just let me do it." Dahlia came over and proceeded to fix my arm gauntlets for me. I watched her do the three leather straps over my forearm as she shook it to test the looseness of it. "There. Now you know how to tighten a belt."

"Yeah, thanks for that," I replied dripping with sarcasm. Dahlia rolled her eyes before resuming on her armor. I unsheathed my sword to inspect it once more as the red hue of the sword danced over the blade. Dahlia swung her khopesh grinning to herself. "I'm ready to go. Are you?" She asked when I blinked out of my thoughts. "Yeah. Let's head to the East Gate." With our weapons on our hips and our armor secured Dahlia and I made our way out of the armory to meet up with Metalicana and Igneel. Dahlia practically skipped her way to the East Gate with her excitement barely being contained. She went on about her first big mission and talked to herself once more about the steps of her mission. I listened quietly smiling despite not being excited about any of this. I had seen more than enough wars in my lifetime. The destruction of homes and cities was a core memory for me. Watching as people fall to their knees to see what was once their home gone. It was heartbreaking...

"So who's going to tell the additional soldiers about our "informant mission" when we get there?" Dahlia asked. Once more I snapped out of my thoughts. I had to get ahold of myself dammit. "Oh, you of course. You made the plan so you're going to repeat it to everyone else." Dahlia nodded stopping mid-skip. "Do you think they'll listen?" Her yellow-slit eyes seemed nervous now. I nodded. "They will. You're still my Assist Commander in their eyes, but in reality, you're taking my place. Just show authority and don't back down if anyone questions you. Talk to them like you do to me when I'm not listening."

"So scream in their ear? Got it." I laughed when she said that. Minutes later we made it to the East Gate which was still closed as soldiers were filed in a line awaiting orders. I pointed Dahlia over to go over what's today mission is. "I know we need to find an informant, but remember the first mission is protecting the lives of the refugees as they come in." Dahlia nodded. "Understood." My Assist Commander walked away when I turned to find my dad and Metalicana discussing things in private. They were pointing at a table with a map on it, both men seemed intently focused. I went to attention and marched towards the two Dragons. I saluted to them then went to parade rest. "Scale Master Dragneel and Assist Commander Dahlia reporting for duty, Councilors." Igneel looked up and smiled whereas Metalicana waved his hand without looking up. "At ease, Natsu. We could use your input about something." I broke free from my military posture and walked over to the table. There were arrows crossing over each other with X marks and question marks. Metalicana scratched at his chin when he clenched his teeth. "Those damn mages! Where could they possibly be!?" The Metal Dragon slammed his fist in his rage. Igneel leaned over to explain what was happening. "We tried to take extra precautions and surround the Gate with additional men. Weisslogia and Skiadrum are outside the Capital searching for any sign of Dark Mages. The problem is...there's nobody. The soldiers outside had been there since sun dawn and they have found no sight of Dark Mages." I leaned myself onto the table. "That doesn't make any sense. Unless my scouts managed to scare away the Dark Mages how have they not made a move to surprise attack the refugees at the gate? They wouldn't be behind them; that doesn't give them the advantage at any point."

"We said the same thing." Metalicana gritted under his teeth. Igneel gave him a look as if telling him he needs to calm down. Metalicana slowly sighed with his nose still flaring. "Forgive my rudeness, Scale Master Dragneel," Metalicana said without facing me. "No need to apologize. Let me think about this." I racked my brain thinking over any idea or situation to know why the Dark Mages are suddenly missing. We were expecting a battleground to happen out here. A surprise attack. Or... something. "I don't understand this either. Is it possible my squadron drove out the Dark Mages from following them?"

"It's possible. For now, we keep our guards up. We'll treat this as a possible high threat. Weisslogia and Skiadrum informed us the refuge group is less than an hour away now. Let's get everyone into place so we can greet the Joya refugees." Igneel knocked on the table as a sign of dismissal. I bowed to each of the Councilors and turned to go find Dahlia. My Assist Commander just finished explaining today's mission when she met me halfway. "Hey. That went better than I expected. I was about to meet you with the Councilors, but I guess the meeting finished."

"Yeah. Something's wrong." I whispered so only she could hear it. Dahlia's eyes narrowed suspiciously. "What do you mean?" She asked. I crossed my arms still speaking lowly. "The Dark Mages, there's been no sign of them. The obvious attack method they would do is to move ahead to do a surprise attack. Two more Councilors and additional soldiers went outside the Walls to hopefully catch them in time. The thing is there hasn't been any sighting of the Mages since yesterday. They've just vanished." Dahlia looked puzzled. "Could they have vanished? They are Mages, right? They must have used some kind of magic to be invisible."

"If that's the case then our nose would have caught them."

Dahlia bit the inside of her cheek. "That's true too." She pondered about the news when I clapped my hand on her shoulder. "Come on, we're going to stick to the plan. We act as if they're right there about to attack." I began to walk away until I remember something and turned my head back to look at Dahlia. "Watch the refugees Dahlia. I have a feeling something bad is about to happen." Dahlia nodded. "Yessir." The East Gate was open with two rows of soldiers on each side of the entrance. Igneel and Metalicana stayed inside the Walls waiting to greet the Joya citizens whilst Dahlia and I were in front of the soldiers outside the Gate. There was nothing but trees for miles. Thick forests that I have learned like the back of my hand. I could be blindfolded and know where I am by feeling the land alone. We had to learn our land to have the upper hand in case of an unexpected attack.

Dahlia was at full attention with her hand on the hilt of her khopesh. Her fingers nervously tightened around the leather-gripped hilt, clenching then unclenching again and again. I also stood at attention with narrowed eyes and my heart racing. It was so quiet. Unnaturally quiet. Dahlia and I looked at each other both realizing that. We then saw the first sight of the refuge group. They were being herded like sheep around my squadron moving painfully slowly. The people were dirty and starving. Women were shuffling in their grimy garbs and holding the hands of children while the men stayed close to my scouts. I could even hear the sound of a baby crying. Dahlia took a sharp breath. "They all look terrible. Haven't any of the countries tried to help them?" She whispered. I said nothing already knowing the answer. Joya was a poor country with a high belief in religion. They were known to rather die than break any law when it came to their beliefs. The women wore mundane colors, white, tan, or creme colors. Even during the war, they had their hair up in a tight bun with no jewelry unless it was a wedding ring. I did notice one woman wearing black with a black veil over her face. She had a child out of wedlock, meaning she was shamed and could never show her face. She was the one with the crying baby and was holding the hand of a little girl wearing white. The men also wore mundane clothes but with pants instead of dresses like the women. Some also wore cloaks with their hoods up. I held onto the hilt of my sword when I threw my fist up. "Attention!" I ordered with the soldiers raising their shields and khopesh. Dahlia raised her khopesh and threw her fist over her chest.

When the group was close enough they stopped as one of my scouts ran to me. "Scale Master Dragneel, forgive our tardiness. We were expected to be here an hour ago but they wouldn't move from camp until their prayer hour was finished. Many of them are injured, and all of them are starving." I acknowledged his report. "Have you seen any signs of being followed? Any sight of the Dark Mages?"

"No sir. Not since yesterday evening when they attempted an attack. No one was harmed, thankfully."

"Alright. You and the squadron have done a good job. When the refuge group is inside the squadron everyone will have the rest of the week off to rest." The scout thanked me then saluted to return to the refugees. Dahlia's eyes were narrow again. "They were attacked yesterday evening?" I said yes. "It was a good thing the squadron was there. Perhaps they fled after all." Dahlia didn't say anything. She bit the inside of her cheek thinking about something. The first refugees came close when I was suddenly shaking a man's hand. "Thank the Gods! You were the only ones that have opened their city to give us sanctuary. The Gods have blessed us after seven months of misery."

"Sir, I appreciate your kind words, but you have to keep moving until you're safely inside the Walls. Move along, sir." The starved man nodded his head. "Yes. Yes, we're still not safe yet." The raggedy man began to take a step when Dahlia let out a shout. "THEY'RE IN THE REFUGE GROUP!" She pointed at one of the cloaked people when all of a sudden the ground visibly started to shake. Dust kicked up into the air as I drew out my sword. "GET THE CIVILIANS INSIDE!" I yelled as the soldiers and scouts drew their weapons to retaliate against the Dark Mages. There were twenty-four Dark Mages that drew their magic and weapons to start attacking the Joya refugees. Screams tore the sky as blood splattered the ground. Already some of the refugees had been hit falling to the ground in a bloody mess. I struck the first Dark Mage with my sword going through his gut then kicked him out of my way. The people were running past us to reach the East Gate before they were attacked. There was so much chaos happening around with khopesh slicing through flesh. Joya citizens cried out for this to not be their last day alive. Children screamed in fear for their life. I made my sword come to life with a burst of flames and attack the next Dark Mage in my sight. The refuge group was halfway into the East Gate when a small child fell from the stampede of people running over her. I tried to run to help her before she was a potential target when the side of my cheek was sliced through by a Mage's attack. Blood oozed down my neck when I countered the second attack. "Sunny! Sunny help!" The little girl cried out when a Dark Mage found her. I gritted my teeth. I couldn't lose focus on the enemy in front of me. I side-stepped then did a low hit across the Mage's hip when he gurgled out in pain. For the final blow, I cut through the Mage's shoulder until he was no longer moving. The little girl was backing away when the Mage picked up his weapon to take her life. "HELP!" The little girl screamed when I saw a woman in black run in front of her and grabbed her. The veiled woman held the girl close to her with the baby swaddled to her chest.

"NO!" Suddenly, I was flying. My wings instinctively took me from one area that was too far to reach the woman and children to pushing the Dark Mage off his feet. The Mage grunted when he hit the ground grasping the dirt to find his weapon until a khopesh met his neck. "You're not gonna move a single muscle," Dahlia warned pushing her curved blade closer to the man's skin. The Dark Mage closed his eyes realizing he was defeated. I looked left and right to not find any more Mages around us. Some of the civilians that were hit in the beginning were already gone and inside the safety of the Walls. The black-dress woman quietly gasped under her veil when I noticed she was shaking. I couldn't see her face, but her line of sight was directed at me. The little girl hugged her and the swaddled baby tightly. "Sunny? Let's go inside." The little girl looked at me, showed a single nod as thanks, then pulled the mother inside the East Gate. I looked back at our now informant when he was cackling. Dahlia and I shared a look, and then picked up the man to bring him inside.

~~~~~

It had been a day since the refugees made it. Grandeeney and the volunteer medics had many people who were injured from the attack yesterday. No lives had been lost, but at any moment that could change. Currently, I was standing in a poorly lit interrogation room with the Dark Mage sitting with enchanted chains around his wrists. His face was dark with bruises and his nose was broken. His right eye was swollen and his body was also bruised after failing to give us information. Dogramag threw another hard punch across his face. "I'll ask again," The Earth Dragon said leaning the Mage's chair back. "who were you looking for in the refuge group? Why are you after them?" The Dark Mage didn't talk. His eyes glared at the Dragon as he spat blood on the floor. "I know nothin'." The man said nasally. The door to the room opened when Dahlia snuck in. "How's it going?" She asked in her civilian clothes. "Dahlia, I told you not to worry about this. You need to take a break." The woman rolled her eyes. "Shut up already and update me." I sighed while rolling my eyes. "He hasn't talked yet."

"Seriously!? What's it gonna take for him to talk? When do we start taking fingers?" She joked elbowing me. I didn't laugh. "I'm serious Dahlia. Go home. You shouldn't be here to see this." The Dragon gawked at me. "It was my idea for this too. I'll be disappointed if we did all of this only for him to not talk in the end." The Mage grunted after being hit again. I uncrossed my arms and opened the door. "We'll talk about this later. I'm not telling you again Dahlia, go home. Get some shuteye and let me worry about this." Dahlia rolled her eyes this time puffing out her cheeks again. "Fine. But I'm not going home so let that annoy you."

"Bye, Dahlia," I said and closed the door after she left. Dogramag moved to the side table and cleaned his bloodied hands off. "I'm getting sick of the silent treatment." The Dragon muttered and threw the rag back on the table. I didn't move from my place. "Permission to speak, Councilor?" I asked. Dogramag cut his green-slit eyes to me. "Granted."

"Let me take over while you cool off. It's been twenty-four hours since he's been here. He'll break eventually. I'll keep him waiting for you." Dogramag laughed. "Fine. I'll find something to eat. Don't be too easy on him, Dragneel." Dogramag went to the door and left seconds later. I stayed where I was watching the Dark Mage gasp for air. He spat blood on the floor again curling his fingers into his palm. "This can be easy if you just tell us what we want to know. You can get some food, maybe be healed. Just tell us what you know." I took my time going closer to the Mage as he drew his head back up. "Dragneel...you-...you wouldn't happen to be the Duel-Sign Salamander would you?" The Mage asked. I leaned closer to where he could see my face. "That was my name a long time ago."

"Yeah...Yeah, I knew it. Natsu Dragneel. Every Dark Mage feared your name. For a while when this whole operation started we thought you would have ended it before it began." I didn't say anything. The Dark Mage sniffed. "The Master assured us it would be fine. We were apprehensive at first, but after taking Joya for the taking...well...do you see me cowering?" The Mage grinned with his chipped tooth out for show. I still didn't say anything. He was wanting me alone for a while since this is the most he's talked since being captured. "Rumor has it you were searching for a way to bring the Savior back to life?" My hands clenched. He took notice of my tension. "Ahh, so it is true. Trying to bring what is dead back to life. The same thing she did for all of us. Such honor...such...power."

"She's dead. I know for a fact there's no way of bringing her back." The man grinned even more. "Oh...is that so?" I suddenly picked him up by his collar. He was still in the chair with his feet kicking in the air. "Don't play these mind games with me, you sick bastard. I know because I watched her soul erase in front of me. I saw her existence vanish before my eyes. If you think I would fall for this trick...you'll be sorely mistaken."I dropped him back on the ground and took some steps back to calm myself. The Mage cackled once more howling with his head back. "The Master knows all! The plan came to fruition on the night the shooting star fell in Joya. The Balance will walk among the human race once more...and we will be its master. We will control the Balance of Magic!"

"It's not possible! The Balance is trapped in marble! Your Master knows nothing!" My body was shaking in rage. He spoke of nonsense. He was trying to make me confused, or give me a false sense of hope that had long since died. I won't believe him. "The Master doesn't want her per se. He just wants the body."

I couldn't take it anymore. "There is no body!" My fists punched the man's face over and over. I didn't care as he became a bloody mess. He continued to laugh. Even as my fists broke his cheekbone he laughed. "She's dead! Do you hear me!? SHE'S DEAD!" My body was suddenly dragged away from beating the man to death. I was screaming and continued to throw my fists in an act of punching. We were outside when my wrists were caught by two hands. "Stop it Natsu! What do you think you're doing!?" Dogramag shouted holding my arms in place. I heaved for air, gasping to catch my breath. The Councilor shook me to snap out of it. "We need that bastard alive! Another hit and you would have killed him!"

"He-...He deserves to die." I said with my throat now parched. My vocal cords were scratchy. I coughed in the discomfort my throat was feeling. Dogramag let go of me when he figured I wasn't freaking out anymore. "I know he deserves it, but not right now. We still know nothing of what he and the Dark Guilds want." My head hung low. I wanted to tell him of the foolishness I was told. My wife is dead. She's been dead for nine years. Her soul is gone. I had to remind myself that every day. I shook my head. "I know. I'm sorry, alright?"

"You're not going back in there. Now we have to heal him before his wounds end up killing him. Just...go somewhere else than being here. You're excused." Dogramag left me and went back into the interrogation room. My head was slumping when I brought my hands up to my face. I was still shaking. Not out of anger this time...but maybe fear? I didn't feel scared. Was it honestly excitement? I wasn't happy about hearing any of that. I don't know what to feel right now. I was... confused. So confused about so many things. I had to go see Grandeeney. Maybe words of wisdom could make me feel better. I walked away from the interrogation room past the Training Ground to head for the East District. Grandeeney had been there since yesterday doing everything they can to save the lives of the Joya citizens. The walk was quiet with it only me on the streets of Drakonia's Capital. Word of the attack yesterday must have the Dragons tense as there hasn't been an attack this close to their homes. I wouldn't blame them for being too suspicious of the outsiders. Somehow the Dark Mages managed to sneak past them under their noses. They even tricked my scouts when they were attacked the day before. Perhaps that's how they weaved their way into the group. They were distracted in protecting the civilians the squadron must have not noticed the disguised Dark Mages. They even masked their smell somehow to avoid suspicion. If it weren't for Dahlia yesterday, they would have made it past the East Gate into the Capital.

The East District was not so pleasant when I arrived to go find Grandeeney. Some people were outside eating bowls of soup with blankets around them. Some of them that were bandaged with it already seeping with blood. They still wore the clothes they left in Joya which were dirty and almost unusable to the point of being clothes. The women hugged the children while sitting on the grass and the men would pass around more bowls for them to eat. They were starving, some so starve-ridden they were the shape of a skeleton. Even the children had hollow eyes due to hunger. I went to the Medic Housing and found more people inside. There was groaning and crying while all the medic staff and Grandeeney did their best to wrap burns and open wounds. Grandeeney worked without any sign of being tired. She was quick on her feet, sowing wounds without shaky hands, and spoke to the medics with a calm demeanor. She saw me when she turned around. "Oh, hello Natsu. Are you here to help?"

"I'm no good in the medical field, sorry Grandeeney. I was here to talk to you, but you seem busy." I looked around again when she sighed. "Yes, there were many people in the refuge that were injured or sick. It hasn't helped they don't wish to be healed with magic. Their religion doesn't allow the use of magic or even being a magic user. We've had to heal them the non-magical way and it's been difficult fighting against the wisps moments of death. We haven't lost anyone...yet I fear."

"That bad?" I asked. Grandeeney nodded. "Yes, sadly. I believe in staying strong to your morals and faith, but when your life is on the line...I just want to help them. To them magic is devilry." Grandeeney heard her name being called. "I'm sorry I have to get back to it. We'll talk later if that's alright?" I said it was fine and waved at Grandeeney when she went back to work. So much for the wisdom of words I was wanting. Much to my dismay I couldn't force Grandeeney to put aside her patient's life to listen to me yap about my thoughts. I went back outside to start heading back to the castle when I ran into someone. The little girl from yesterday was about to go in when she walked into me and squeaked. Her arms were holding a bundle of blankets with a baby in them, though you couldn't even see the baby because of the poor attempt to swaddle the child. "I-I'm sorry." The little girl said with tears threatening to fall down her face. I was already on my knees shushing the girl. "Hey, hey it's alright. What's wrong? Are you feeling unwell?" She shook her head. "Not m-me. I-...I tried to swaddle her, but it's hard." The girl held the baby tighter to her. I looked past her hoping to find an adult running after her. "Where's your mom? You were with her yesterday weren't you?" She looked back at me in confusion. "N-No. Sunny isn't my mama. I don't have a mama anymore."

No mom and I assume no dad. This 'Sunny' must be her guardian then. "Is this your little sister?" I asked my eyes peering down at the bundle of blankets. She shook her head again. "No. This is Sunny's baby. She's always hungry, but Sunny says it's hard to feed her. Sunny...s-she's really sick. The doctor said there's nothing they can do, but she's feeling worse! She collapsed yesterday and I'm scared she isn't going to wake up. I don't know what to do!" The little girl was crying at this point trembling where she stood. Her tears fell and landed on the blankets as she hugged the baby. "I'm so scared. I don't know what to do. Sunny gets sick so often, but it feels worse than usual. She just... hasn't woken up at all. I don't know what to do."

"For a small girl, you're holding the world on your shoulders. Take a deep breath for me, alright? Deep breath." I showed her a deep breath and then exhaled. "Come on, take a deep breath." She followed suit breathing deeply then shakily exhaling. Her ocean-blue eyes looked at the baby while rocking her in her arms. "I know she's hungry, but I don't know what to feed her." I extended my hands out. "Would you like me to hold her? Maybe we can find a medic that knows of a wet nurse. We'll look together." The girl was hesitant at first. "I-I don't know if Sunny will like that."

"I'm a friend. We're here to help. You can trust me, promise." She watched me, analyzing my character. I gave her my biggest childish grin which made her giggle. "I guess you're alright. You are the mister that saved us." She looked back down at the baby shushing her even when she wasn't crying. "It's okay. We can trust him." She passed the baby and bundles of blankets to me. I felt my arms secure the baby close to my chest as her head used my bicep as a pillow. She was pale with her hands in tiny fists. The baby's face was small with a button nose as her eyebrows scrunched. She smiled when I held her and shuffled herself in the blankets. I took in the color of her hair, locks the color of a peach. In normal light I'm sure it was pink, but under the sun you could see speckles of yellow. I couldn't place the idea why I somehow knew this child. I'd never met this baby before in my life. It must be a coincidence. My steps still staggered with that impossible thought that I unconsciously sat down on the stair steps. "She's so beautiful," I whispered watching her hand wrap itself around my finger. The baby giggled. It was a sound I never thought I would love hearing, but I love hers.

"Her name's Nashi."

I didn't move, but I felt my heart throb in agonizing pain. My arms were stuck in place as I could hear over and over again the name of the baby. Nashi. Her name is Nashi. Now I understood why I thought I knew the baby. My dream nine years ago showed me a child with peach-colored hair and chocolate-brown eyes. I watched not just in awe but in horror when the baby opened her eyes. It wasn't possible. It couldn't be possible. She's dead. I watched her die. I watched her soul be erased. But this was her eyes. It was her.

Lucy's eyes. On this baby's face.

I gasped when I looked back up at the little girl. "Take me to her," I said when I began to feel dizzy. There was no way. I must be going insane. Here I thought I was getting better. Or this must be some sort of nightmare. There was no other way than the fact I must be dreaming. "To Sunny?" She asked. I didn't say yes or no. Sunny wasn't her name. Her name was Lucy. Lucy Heartfilia: the Savior that died nine years ago. My wife has been dead for almost a decade. My dead wife...that had our child? No, no this was impossible. I tried to wake up when I closed my eyes and shook my head. "I'm asleep. I'm asleep. I'm asleep." I whispered repeatedly. I gave up years ago that I would see Lucy. She wasn't here. I watched her die. I'm not insane. She isn't alive. Lucy is dead. Lucy is gone and she isn't coming back. I had to say this over and over and over like a broken record. This couldn't be right. Lucy wasn't pregnant when she died. This can't be our child. It's a coincidence; a very big coincidence. I opened my eyes and nodded. "Can I see Sunny?"

"You can, but you can't unveil her. It's against our laws for someone like Sunny to show her face. She had Nashi out of wedlock." I knew that already. A woman in Joya has to wait until marriage to be sexually active. The black clothing and black veil are a status that shames the woman that couldn't save herself for marriage. She's condemned to never marry or have a happy life. "I know. I just...want to see her." I have to make sure. I knew the answer already; that it wasn't going to be Lucy. Yet my heart at this very moment is screaming at me to go see. That it might even the sliver of a chance be her...I couldn't pass the chance. I hated myself for this. It wasn't Lucy. It was just a coincidence. The girl leads the way looking back to see me blindly following her. I kept my eyes on the baby girl in my arms. The more I look at her the more my heart once again screamed at me this was my child. A child that should be nine years old if Lucy was alive. That's when the logical side of my brain would shut down the fluttering feeling in my chest to say this is impossible. It just couldn't be Lucy. Her soul was erased. Her existence is gone from the Cosmos. Why can't I get that past my stupid heart?!

'Because I still believe it could be her.'

Yeah, what a stupid joke. She brought me to the fourth housing that had up to thirty rooms for the citizens. The girl, Nashi, and Sunny lived on the bottom floor in the farthest right room. It was also the smallest room in the house. It was made for a single person, but they put three people in here who barely had any room to move much less sleep in a twin-size cot. Before she opened the door I stopped her. "You guys are staying in here?" I said with a hint of absurdity. She nodded. "Yes? We don't have a right to any of the nicer rooms. It's alright, this is the best place we've lived in out of the seven months." I shook my head. "No. No this isn't suitable. You guys are going to move out of this claustrophobic room and come to the castle."

"What? B-But why? I'm sorry b-but we can't accept it. Anyone else in the refuge is more honorable to take our place-"

"This isn't up for discussion. Plus, Sunny can get the treatment she needs at the castle. Are you gonna argue with me?" The girl slunk back. "N-No sir." She said with lips trembling. I realized that I reacted carelessly. "Hey, I hope I didn't make you think I was being mean. It's just a woman and two children shouldn't live in a space this small. You'll love it at the castle. Big garden, so much food you won't know what to do with, and a big library with every book imaginable." Her eyes sparkled at the word library. "I like books." She said bashfully. "Before the war came to Joya I would read to Sunny. She didn't know how to read or even write when I met her."

"She didn't?" The girl shook her head humming no. "We had to teach her the basics. Writing, reading...even talking. Sunny isn't even her real name. I named her. She doesn't remember her name."

Dammit. This was all the more harder to make me admit this isn't Lucy. But, Lucy knew how to do all of those things. She was the best at writing and loved to read. Maybe this wasn't Lucy... I sighed and put my attention back on the baby. Nashi was the definition of beautiful. She made my heart swell with unconditional love and I hadn't known this child but for a few minutes. "Can we go in?" I asked. The girl nodded when she entered the tiny room. "Sunny? Sunny, are you awake?" The room was just as I remembered. It was tiny I could put both hands on opposite sides of the walls. There was a pillow on the ground next to the cot and an additional blanket. I'm guessing the girl slept there. The baby had nowhere to be put to sleep either. I saw the black-veiled woman again. The veil was so dark I couldn't see her face or the figure of her body due to the long dress and long sleeves. The veil fell over her chest almost down to her hips. The girl slid her hand under the veil to hold Sunny's hand. "Sunny? Can you hear me? Please wake up. I don't know what to do if Nashi and I lost you." The veiled woman didn't speak. Her body was still with only small breaths to indicate she was breathing. "Can she breathe under that?" I asked. The girl didn't move. "It can be hard. She can't show her face. Not even in a room alone."

"Take it off her." The girl this time snapped her head with panicked eyes. "N-No! You can't see her it's illegal!"

"Maybe in Joya it is, but you're in Drakonia. Here anyone can show their face. Every person is the same status and the same class. You three are in the same place just like I am. Free her from her veil." The girl stood up. "Y-You need to leave! Give me back Nashi and get away from us!" I didn't move. The mere mention of this baby leaving my arms made me hold her even closer. "Please, listen to me. I don't know why but something is telling me I know-" A soft voice made me stop mid-talk. "Elain..?" The girl looked over to Sunny with wide eyes. The voice was soft and sickly, but I heard it loud as a bell. Once more the logical sense reminded me of all I knew, but the closer I went to the cot to see the further the logical side sounded. It was so far away I could no longer hear it. The girl named Elain told me to stop, and yet I didn't listen. Holding Nashi in one arm I threw the veil over the woman's head. I could see her face now. She was pale like wax. I saw the shape of her face due to hunger with sharp bone cheeks and dry, purple-chapped lips. Around her eyes were black due to heartache and stress. Her hair was short only passing her ears, but I could remember clear as day the way her blonde locks shined with the help of the sun. Her irises were tired and bloodshot, barely able to stay awake before she fell back asleep, but they were the same just as Nashi's. The woman before me...was Lucy.

Elain stopped shouting at me when she watched me unfold. I felt the tears already stirring when I heard her angelic voice. My face was running with tear streaks as I sobbed in pain. It couldn't be her. She was dead. This couldn't be Lucy. It had to be someone that looked like her. It had to be someone that made themselves look like my dead wife and made a baby look like the one in my dream. This couldn't be a coincidence. It would be too big of a coincidence. Not only that, but the phantom pains weren't there. Looking at this woman in front of me cured the phantom pains I'd lived with for nine years. Unless I've completely become insane...it had to be her...I rested my head over hers still crying. Her hair felt the same between my fingers. The scent of her was so faint I thought I'd imagine it, but it was here. Vanilla and Strawberries. The smell consumed me when I fell to my knees altogether with Nashi still in my arms. I wanted to be happy...truly I did. But I only felt my heart breaking all over again. My voice croaked out the only question I could think of asking.

"Lucy...why are you here?"

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<.<

Be honest, did ya'll expect that? I tried to make it really hard for you guys to assume that, but was it really easy to find out?

You'll get your answers next chapter as to how the heck Lucy is back! Also, welcome to the world Nashi!😭

As always...love you all.❤️