User blog comment:Real Godisme/Chapter 481/@comment-25111584-20160411135846/@comment-25111584-20160411180051

If not for Aries, Natsu could have bashed Franmalth over the head with boulders whenever he wanted. Indirectly, Lucy proved a hindrance. And, considering Taurus got absorbed by Franmalth, it seems his brute strength was of no avail. Mind explaining how Lucy is strong enough to take out Franmalth?

One explosion from Jackal was enough to send Loke back to the CSW. Aquarius could not stand against him. The two together would be might contain him... but then Loke is a melee combatant, so going up against Jackal is suicide for him. Lucy can't win against Jackal. However, I'll concede that Lucy didn't hinder Natsu here.

If not for Lucy, Natsu would have activated FDKM immediately and OHKOed Jacob. Lucy is not strong enough to solo a Shield. You severely overestimate her.

Lucy should be standing back when Natsu fights because he is a reckless fighter. Erza is more powerful, but Lucy can easily fight alongside her. Because Erza is far more methodical and precise (supposedly). Lucy cannot fight alongside Natsu without hindering him. Hang back, equip Sagittarius Star Dress and support Natsu. Or Taurus Star Dress and whip. Call forth Aries and have her obstruct the movements of Natsu's opponents. There are dozens of ways in which she can support him, yet we never see her doing this. Why not? Why does she fight alongside Natsu despite the fact that it makes no sense? We know it's not 'cuz she's stupid. It's 'cuz Mashima writes it like that. Obviously it's his fault.

Lucy's portrayal has never been as somebody strong enough to take down the likes of Franmalth, Jackal and Jacob. So how is her losing to them in any way wrong? When there is no fault, what am I supposed to be blaming Mashima for?