Chapter 383: Maybe
"I've been scolded to such an extent.... Maybe it's the law that's wrong."
The Celestial Spirit King looked at Lucy, then at Natsu holding her protectively, Gray standing guard, and the Fairy Tail members surrounding them.
"Leo, who broke the rules to protect Aries. His dear friend who risked everything to save him. And all of you, bound together by such a powerful bond."
The Celestial Spirit King paused, then unexpectedly grinned.
"For the sake of that beautiful bond, I'll make an exception. Leo, I pardon your transgression. You are permitted to return to the Celestial Spirit Realm. You should thank the stars for guiding you."
"Your Majesty." Loke's voice trembled.
"If you still wish to atone, then I command this. Live on. With the strength of your friends, protect them even at the cost of your life."
With a flourish of his cloak, the Celestial Spirit King dissolved into a swirling river of stars and faded into the sky. The darkness lifted. Daylight returned.
Cheers erupted on the cliff.
Natsu grinned. "Wasn't that perfect? I really thought that old bearded guy was going to throw hands."
Lucy, still in his arms, chuckled faintly. "Yeah, he's the King of the Celestial Spirits, but he really is an old bearded man."