Was it really necessary for Lucy's performance to be that bad? Even in a field where she would normally have an upper hand thanks to Aquarius, Mashima had to make her look even more mediocre. It's like the only purpose Lucy had in this chapter/event was to serve as Minerva's punching bag.
Anyway, I can see Laxus fighting Orca or w.e and feeling like doing the same to him, then deciding not to step as low as them. Grey might end up in the same place as Lucy if he fights Rufus. And Natsu, as much as he might want to beat any Sabretooth member to pulp, he is gonna have an even fight in which he gets as much pain, and then prolly win.
I'm more interested on if the next chapter will have some development in Lucy and Natsu's relationship.