Hello Everyone! I'm Elle and 2 years ago I quit and then I went by the name of Akari, however I have now changed and prefer Elle. I am very interested in writing however I have absolutely no writing experience other than schoolwork. So please go easy with reviews, and know I still appreciate constructive criticism! Now I'm going to give background info about the story. I may include spoilers but the story is supposed to be set right after episode 122, manga chapter 253. This story is mostly Lucy-centric, but I will also focus on an OC as well. Major ships are NaLu, GaLe, and Gruvia. I may choose to include Jerza and Stukino. Just so you know in advance. With that done, let's get into the story!

Chapter 1: Beginnings

Lucy's boots hit the pavement in a smooth rhythm as she walked home from her first day at the new guild. As she opened the door into her apartment, she half expected to find a certain pink-haired dragon slayer there, and was somewhat disappointed when said dragon slayer was not there. It had been a very bittersweet day, perhaps it was better to unwind alone with a hot bath. Turning the hot water on, she let herself sink into deep thought while the water made her feel cozy... just like before the 7 years.

After freshening up, Lucy changed into her pajamas and walked into her room to find a little sticky note on her bed.

Lucy Heartfilia,

I am writing to inform you of a deal I would like to make with you regarding your current guild membership to Fairy Tail. I would like you to leave your guild as soon as possible, and what you do from there will be none of my business. If you do not leave Fairy Tail immediately, worse things could happen. Good luck with your decision.

-G

What absolute bullcrap, the mage thought. "What kinds of prankster pulls crap like that?" Lucy inquired out loud. Unfortunately, her question was answered a moment later when a puff of smoke revealed a man in a dark red cloak at the foot of her bed. Before she could scream or react, a hand was around her mouth.

"It seems you do not believe me. What a pity," A gruff voice said behind Lucy.

"Mmmph, mhp, mmmmppphhhh!" A struggling Lucy said.

"I'll take off my hand... if you promise not to scream. If you do I'll kill you," The unknown man said. Lucy nodded, and his hand was released. "So, I suggest you leave Fairy Tail now unless you want something to happen the the Dragneel kid,"

"Like hell you could ever hurt Natsu," Lucy said triumphantly.

"Oh Lucy, you are severely mistaken," The man turned to Lucy's bedtable and picked up her comb. He held it in his hands and then it was gone. Lucy's eyes widened. "So unless you want that to happen to Mr. Dragneel, Lucy, you'd best leave Fairy Tail now,"

Cursing to herself, the blonde knew there was nothing she could do. She couldn't fight this guy and she didn't want Natsu to get hurt. She looked the cloaked man in the eye and mustered the courage to say something. "I promise to you, I will leave Magnolia right now. As long as you don't touch ANY of the other guild members. Not just Natsu,"

"Very well, but you must not make any contact with the members about your leaving,"

"Of course," Lucy said reluctantly. She breathed a heavy sigh of relief when the puff of smoke came again, and the cloaked man was gone.

"Mira, where's Lucy?" Natsu asked the bartender.

"Lucy? I haven't seen her today. Maybe she's sick?" Mira said with a concerned tone.

"Yeah. Happy, let's go to her house!"

"Aye!" The blue cat exclaimed.

The pair walked out of the guild and down the streets of Magnolia. Carefully teetering on the edge of the river, Natsu came across Lucy's apartment. Busting the door open, Natsu yelled "Lucy! Where are you?" and was surprised to hear nothing in response. "Lucy?"

"Maybe she overslept a lot!" Happy said.

"Good idea, Happy! Let's go to her room!" Natsu replied. They walked into Lucy's room and found themselves staring at her empty bed.

"W-what? Where is she?" Natsu rolled the sheets over and checked the bathroom.

"Natsu, she's probably just out somewhere! It's late, let's go home and have some fish!"

"Oh! You're right, Happy! I'm hungry anyway!" The pair left Lucy's empty apartment and made for home. The dragon slayer couldn't help but to feel worried for his teammate.

I'm really sorry but I kinda have to stop this here.. this is too many scenes for one chapter. Sorry for such a short and rushed first chapter, but it's meant to be introductory. I'm on summer break right now so I think I can update tomorrow. It will get better, I promise! Bye for now, next chapter coming very soon.