#and I looked up red haired women and thought Erza was PERFECT

[musecheerios]

hehehehe

hehehehehe

HEHEHEHEHEEEEE

[k-laconia-bug1]

Celestial Wind

Posted on Ao3

Luz had screamed herself awake that morning. The entire owl house had heard her rushing in thinking she was being attacked.

Truth was it was a memory of hers

Her big sister Lucy had been murdered infront of her, the future version of sister was killed by future Rouge she doesn't remember ever being so angry and sad at the same time.

She remembers looking at Nastu she's never seen him like that either so scared for lucy future if she didn't already know that he loved that would have solidified it.

Eda was also concerned for along with King and Hooty with how many times she was screaming or crying herself awake. They had made her stay in bed for breakfast it wasnt until after bed she was aloud to get out.

Which was perfect timing as she was supposed to meet with Hunter today

When she had arrived in their usual meet up spot Hunter was already there

With a quirked eyebrow Hunter turned towards Luz "What took you so long your never late?" Luz blushed embarrassed "Eda made me stay in bed until after lunch i-uh had a bad dream.. I woke up screaming" Hunters eyes shine in concern "want to talk about it" Luz pauses for a few moments seeming to think about it 'Could she trust Hunter about Fairytail? About her real life? Well he hadn't sold her out to BBelios he seems to really care about her'

Luz smiled softly with a hint of sadness in her eyes "yeah I'd like that Hunter"

Hunter eyes had widen not expecting her to say yes but happy at the trust shown to him, he really cared for Luz. He patted the spot next to him when Luz sat down in the grass and waited for her to talk.

"It was less of a nightmare well It was but it was a memory" Hunter nodded showing he was listening

Luz scrunched her eyebrows

"One thing you should know I guess is well how do I put this? ... I don't come from the human realm? No wait I do.. just a different universe of it.." She spoke softly

Luz had turned towards Hunter to watch his expression

His eyes had shot up in surprise at the confession "Wait really I didn't even know something like that was possible!"

Luz smiled a bit brighter at Hunter "yeah it was called EarthLand there was magic there too but it was different.. Guilds were formed to protect those who couldn't protect themselfs"

Hunters looked curious but urged to her to get to what her nightmare was about

Luz looked down eyes filled with pain

"I had watched the future version of my older sister get killed infront of me"

Hunter eyes widen at the thought of Luz seeing something so brutal he wrapped his arms around her to comfort her

Luz smiles gratefully "it didn't help that there was a huge battle going on during it... Mavis... I miss my guild" Luz looks down at her right hand taking off the fingerless glove she wore

Hunter eyes followed her movement

"You have a tattoo?" Luz eyes widen

"What no it's my guild mark it was applied with a magic stamp by Mirajane! Lucy would kill me!!" Hunter was surprised at such a reaction from Luz

"Oh so like was proved your from a coven? And I assume Lucy is you sister?"

Luz blushed "yeah that's right"

"Is magic different there?" Hunter questions curious

Luz looked up in surprise

"Huh yeah it is quite a bit when I think about it!.... one key difference is that if you use the last bit of your magic you'll Crack like your glass and turned into seeable magic... Oh! And we don't have a magic sack attached to the heart with have containers within us 'Luz suddenly pales' and when someone with time typ magic.. she can open a second container with out training 10 out of 10 do not recommend that fudging hurt" By the end of her sentence she was glaring at the ground if looks could kill that flower would be dead

"How bad does it hurt?" Hunter asked nervous Luz stared him dead in the eye

"I'd rather do over 100 missions in one day nothing could ever hurt more my pain tolerance went screw you gramps for choosing me to compete at GMG!!"

Luz blushed hard in embarrassment

"Ahh sorry I guess I should tell you... I do have magic as you could guess after all I work at a magic guild!" By the end of her sentence she was smiling brightly

Hunter again surprised and intrigued asked "if there a certain kind of magic you spealize in?" Luz eyes brighten she jumped up "Yes! Infact..!" Luz closed her eyes and stretched her hand out and a key appeared in her hand she twisted as if opening a door "Open gate of Madien Virgo" suddenly a doorbell sound was heard and in a golden flash there was a women with short pink hair in a maid outfit infront of them "Punishment time princess?" The pink haired girl asked bowing Luz face turned a bright red "VIRGO" Luz let out a miserable sigh "no Virgo how man times do I have to say I'm never going to hurt you?" Virgo pouted and turned towards hunter her head tilts to the sized at Hunters jaw dropped expression "Princess? Who is this.. Virgo gained a smug smile Is he your Lover? Aquarius and Hime would be proud!" She finishes off with cheerful smile

Both Luz and Hunters Faces were red as Erza hair "F-Force closher!" Luz stuttered out after Virgo dissappear along with her key in her and her sister shared space pocket as much as she was grateful for the Celestial King blessing the Heartfilia siblings to share Celestial contracts it could get a bit tiring sometimes ..

Luz turned towards Hunter both of there faces still red "I shouldn't have summoned Virgo first but she's better then Loki or Taurus ehh then again like half our spirits are pervs " Luz face breaks out into a smile "oh I can show you Plue! And I show you star dress an a form of Celestial magic only known by the Heartfilia's!" Hunters blush had died down "star dress?.. Wait what do you mean by half your spirits are pervs!?"

Luz who purposely ignores him summons plue "pun punn puun pun!" Hunter stares at the snowman like thing that's shaking "oh really plue fairytail rebanded!!" Luz nearly yells in surprised but happy the snowman like creature shakes it head "oh right" Luz says as she remembers she needed to show him stardress "w-wait a minute" Luz cheeks flame up "what gate key do I use?"

"Luz why does it look like a snowman?"

Luz sweat drops "it's a dog.. now back to where I was.. oh right" she pulled out another key out of thin air expect she didn't turn the keys and summons a spirit like the past 2 times. "Star dress leo!" A flash of gold surrounded Luz and when it died down Luz was in formal attire wearing a fancy Black and gold strapless dress that had a slit all the way to her hip she wore grayish black thights underneath it a black ruffled choker and small black high heels and hair in a tight bun with a pink rose along with a tattoo mark appeared on her chest

Hunter was blushing at how beautiful Luz looked "uhh what does it do exactly"

Luz smiled devilishly "watch!" She walked towards the tree "star dressing allows me to Fight beside my spirits better! It gives me the ability to use there magic" Luz got in a fighting stance with a deep breath she yelled out "Reglus Impact!" As her fist made contact with the tree Hunters eyes widen as the tree expoled "your spirits are only as powerful as your magic! So the stronger you get the stronger they get!" Luz smiled "Leo or Loki as I said his name before is the leader of the Zodiac Spirits there golden gate keys his a fist to fist fighter"

Hunter still in shock "your world's magic is so different then ours" Luz blinks

"You don't think this is the only magic right on my world?" Hunter jaw drops

"There's more?!"

Luz giggles "yeah Me and my sister mainly use Celestial magic with Minor use of Requip magic" Hunter eyes gleam with awe "can you tell me more

Luz happy to have some one to talk to about her family agrees

"Let's see There's Nastu he has Fire dragon slayers magic he can replenish his magic stores by eating fire! He super strong to! He's also inlove with Lucy my sister

There Erza she has the most advanced forms of requip magic! You should see her!! She can bring out so many swords in under a second

Oh and Gray he has Ice make magic anything he has touched he can create with ice! And works just as well as what he touched! But he has a seriously bad stripping habit! He asked me for my underwear once! Lucy beat the crap out of him that day 'she grins' the boys say she was scarier the Erza that day

Of There's wendy to! She a sky dragon slayer! Her Element is good in both fighting and Healing! Truth be told Healing Magic been dieing out!

Oh and there's the exceeds to! There talking flying cats Happy and Carla they drag around their dragon slayer parent because a side affect of dragon slayer magic is motion sickness! And of course my older sister Lucy anything I can do she can do to! All of us together make team Natsu! The strongest team in fairytail!" Luz says proudly hugging plue close to her chest "punn pun" plue exclaimed

Hunter was in awe at the magic they have Luz had looked down at plue in thought before a giddy smile overtook her "Your right Plue he does have the Potential for Ethernanos Magic! Or right that's what we call our worlds Magic"

Hunter eyes turned hopeful and ready to cry he voice breaks as he speaks "re-ally?" Luz nods "yeah but be prepared it's tuff to gain access to it and you don't exactly chose your main magic"

Hunter giddy at thought of not having to rely on his staff "please teach me!"

Luz smiles softly "I will but not today we'll make a schedule ill consult capricorn for the best way to train you"

Luz breaking out in a yawn looks at Hunter "we should head back see as scheduled? I'll have everything ready by then" Hunter excited nods "same time" he confirms that night he could barley sleep

Over the course of next few weeks he was trained hard and he required alot of meditation but by the 2nd month he showed signs wind magic he was happy because Luz had told him that wind magic users had the potential for healing spells but only if they were strong enough that could also perform enchanting magic

By the 5th month mark Luz had told his progress at 2 years worth even though he just trained for 5 months she gave him braclet from Celestial spirit realm

When he hit 7 months Luz told the he was going if he ever met Wendy she wound most likely share healing spells that aren't connected directly to her sky dragon magic that had made his month he was really happy at the thought of being able to heal others

At 8 months Luz said he should just focus on expanding his magic storage which meant take it easy but not to easy she had said she would start to train with him after a week and if he thought

capricorn trained him hard he doesn't know what to call Luz's training he wanted to ask but he didn't

At month 10 he finally asked her why capricorn trained her so hard she told him it was because of the Heartfilia family Duty to the Celestial Realm the Heartfilia bloodline was practically royalty to the Celestial Realm that being the reason they were Givin the title of princess, Hime, etc Heartfilia were the Gaurdains of the Celestial Realm and its not a stretch to call them the princesses of the realm if a Celestial Spirit was ever being mistreated by there summoner it was the Heartfilia's duty to take care of it. She had also made the comment of him making 5 years worth of progress no doubt that was due to capricorn being a drill Sargent

It was a full year before Luz sat him down to tell him what his power level was capable of here that technically he was stronger then his Uncle now that when he was just at month 2 his magic pressure could have defeated belios that team Nastu was quite famous for being destructive during missions people thought it was because of them not watching where there spells go but it was actually of there mp and that through Virgo her sister asked Wendy for some low level healing spells that he could learn she had also Givin him a bracelet that if he sent magic to jewel in it that it would notify her that he's in trouble

It was 5 months after that she sat him down again and gave the ins and outs of magic it was a week after that they had confessed there feelings for each other

At a year and half Luz told Hunter that if he wants he could become a fairytail member she told him stories of fairytail

She told him how one person tears were everyone's tears and how no one cares about members past just who they are now. That month she told him everything about the Heartfilia horizon about her father about being frozen in time for 7 years about the eclipse gate and what happened to the Celestial Realm right after about the Anima.. she told him everything she also told him about one magic.. and how it was only accessible through certain circumstances she told him one magic was basically the purest form of love the knowledge and power of one magic was to Heartfilia line

She also said her sister could use it because of Natsu and that Luz herself can use it Because of him basically she just gave him the biggest I love you ever and that made him feel so loved to know that

When it came time to finish the portal to back home to earthland she had told everyone of her real origin with hunter by her side

And with the help of the Celestial Spirit King who by the scares the crap out Hunter Luz how can you call that man Stache face? To his face! Created a portal in the use of jewelry Givin to everyone Luz and hunter cares for

[gemma-lemma]

Flaming Hearts - A Nalu Fanfiction

Chapter One

“Yes, yes, exactly like that, Miss Lucy. Perfect!” The photographer cheered, changing his own position with every picture he took. Lucy was currently in a studio, white linen behind her and giant lights in front of her to cast the perfect scenery for the beautiful dress she was displaying: a dark red one, that was bound in a chokehold around her neck and had a high slit on each thigh. She wore high heels in the exact same shade of red and translucent white gloves that reached up to her upper arms, but no jewellery. The photographer had decided that Lucy’s own beauty was already splendid enough. She had just giggled and told him to stop making her blush.

“And now put a hand on your hip! Pout! Smile! Squat down! Perfect, Miss Lucy. You are fantastic!”

She might have looked good, but Lucy still felt like she was a mannequin in a showcase. She didn’t really like the photo shootings for all the magazines, though she enjoyed wearing the new dresses. She would much rather have met her friends for a cup of tea or simply read a book today, since it was Sunday, but her father had insisted on her to go. He said it was good for publicity, and Lucy knew that every time he spoke of publicity any fight from her side was useless.

Jude Heartfilia was a businessman, after all. As the head of the great Heartfilia Konzern, a company that produced and distributed all kinds of chemical products, from medicine over skin care to make up, he had little time for his family, which in this place consisted of just Lucy. Her mother had died years before, and Lucy just couldn’t shake the feeling that her death was part of the reason why her father avoided her company so much and would rather work every waking minute. After all, she looked exactly like her mother Layla. Same big brown eyes, glowing blonde hair, curvy figure. It was genetics, really, though Lucy made sure to support those lucky genes with a healthy diet and lots of exercise.

»One last dress, Miss Lucy. We’re almost done.” The photographer announced and she went back to her room to get changed. That was part of the deal they had made. Lucy stood model for the dresses, but she would still get her privacy while getting changed. She had never liked to get changed in front of others, not even the maids who would help her into the complicated dresses for her father’s parties, so it was a relief that she could do it by herself here.

The new dress was of a light rosé colour, with a heart shaped décolleté and reaching down to her shins. The bodice was tight around her chest until her waist, and changed then to a flowing skirt embroidered with beautiful flowers and butterflies. It was more comfortable than the red one, though the high heeled sandals that came with it were anything but that.

“I’m ready.” She called, and a girl entered to change her make up from the darker tones for the red dress to lighter ones that suited the light one. She also changed her hair into a half-up-half-down style and curled the flowing locks with a curling iron.

“Here you go, beautiful as always.” The girl smiled, and Lucy smiled back. The last dress took the longest to photograph, probably because it suited her the best, much to her dismay. She had been sick of modelling already when they were only at the second dress.

When the shooting was finally over, and Lucy had changed back into her own black shirt and red skirt, combined with a pair of black over knees and a red purse, the photographer held her up one last time, shaking her hand enthusiastically.

“Thank you so much for coming today, Miss Lucy. I’m really looking forward to the article The Sorcerer Weekly will write. Hopefully, we will have once again the pleasure of working together!” He chattered cheerfully, but even though Lucy gave him a nod and a polite smile, she couldn’t share his enthusiasm. The Sorcerer Weekly might have been a big number regarding celebrities and business people, but when it came to women their portraits were rather sexist. They wrote about their skin care routines or what their secrets for their perfect bodies were, which wasn’t a wrong thing to do, but still quite annoying when it was the only thing they wrote about women when at the same time they asked men about the secrets to their success or what they would recommend young businesspeople to boost their own businesses.

Photoshoots like that always drained her and she couldn’t quite comprehend what could be so interesting about her showing off dresses she would never wear again. She had a great body, so what? So had countless other women. It wasn’t even an achievement, just lucky genetics. That was what she disliked the most, wasn’t it? Everyone cared for her beauty and her seemingly perfect body, but nobody really acknowledged her brains. Lucy was smart. She loved to read, and she studied astronomy for fun alongside physics and chemistry, which she needed to take over the company one day. Many of her teachers had said that her intelligence was way above the average, and she quite prided herself in that. It bothered her that all those magazines and talk shows only cared about her looks and whether she had already found a husband or not. She wasn’t even looking for a husband, and would much rather spend another few years realizing herself, but she was well aware of her role as an idol. And she didn’t like the fact that all those young girls only ever got to see her beauty, but never once heard a word of her intelligence. She would love to show them how important it was to cultivate one’s intellect or to care about one’s grades rather than their looks.

“Miss Lucy, are you ready to leave?” The driver asked politely, shaking Lucy out of her thoughts. She hadn’t even realized that she was already standing by the edge of the street, in front of the car door he held open for her. She nodded and gave him a small smile, before she entered.

Once the car started, she decided to check her phone, feeling a little lighter at the sight of the messages her friends had sent during her shooting in their group chat Fairy Tail. She didn’t even remember how they had found such a strange name, but she didn’t really mind. It sounded funny, and thoughtless, and so unlike everything else in her life.

 Levy: sent a picture

Levy: Hey Ladies, what do you think of that? It’s a party thrown by Sting Eucliffe, this super-hot singer I was telling you about. It’s this weekend, and the perfect opportunity for a girl’s night out.

 Upon further inspection the picture Levy had sent was, in fact, a flyer, held in silver, blue and purple tones and with a picture of Sting Eucliffe himself up front, showing a wide smile and finger guns. On it there were written his name, the date, and the location.

 Juvia: Yes! I’d love to come! I even heard he’s single!

Erza: Isn’t that that blonde twink who only recently left Sabertooth to become a solo artist? What a snob.

Levy: Yes, exactly. Except, he’s not a twink, Erza! He sings really good, and not even you can deny that he’s good-looking.

Juvia: He has a voice like an angel, you uncultured strawberry!

 Lucy let out a chuckle before replying. The bickering of her friends always eased her tight nerves a bit.

 Lucy: I’d love to come, but I’m afraid my father won’t let me… He doesn’t like such events.

Erza: Then we’ll sneak you out, like we did before.

Levy: Of course! We can’t go without you, Lu!

Juvia: And we’ll dress you up again, so that nobody recognizes you. You still got the wig, don’t you?

Lucy: Of course I still got the wig, you guys gifted it to me. I would never throw that away!

Levy: Naww, you’re so cute!

Lucy: But do you think that will be enough to hide me from the paparazzi?

Erza: Of course, and if anything happens, we will cover for you to run away.

Juvia: Yes!

Lucy: Thanks, guys! This means the world to me!

 Smiling, she put her phone away. They were already driving up the lane that led to her estate.

When the car halted, a maid was already there to open the car door for Lucy, and she gave her a gratuitous smile, before climbing up the steps to where another maid, Leto, was waiting.

“Welcome home, Miss Lucy. How was your photoshoot?” She smiled politely and made a small bow.

“I’m glad to see you too, Leto. The photoshoot was alright, I guess. The photographer was very enthusiastic.” Lucy answered with just the same polite smile, though it seemed a little tired.

“Aren’t they always?” Leto said warmly, and Lucy nodded in agreement. They were, and she wasn’t sure if it was because of her name or if they acted like this around any kind of celebrity.

“Seems so.”

“Mr Heartfilia is in his study. He wanted you to join him there as soon as you came back from your photoshoot.”

“Did he say why?” Lucy sighed, mentally already preparing for the uncomfortable encounter. It was almost noon, and all she wanted was to get back to her studies and maybe eat a bite. She had a big project coming up and didn’t want to waste any more time by doing pointless stuff like being photographed and complimented.

“I am afraid not, Miss Lucy, but he does have guests.” Leto answered as she led her up the stairs, feeling sorry for the girl. She knew her all too well, knowing how busy her life was and how little room she had for herself.

“Guests? Anyone I know?” This caught Lucy’s attention. Guests at the estate were rather unusual, and when there were any, she never got to meet them on purpose. She had once accidentally encountered a business partner of her father, who was storming off due to some deal that hadn’t worked out the way he had wanted to. After his temper tantrum Jude decided to hold meetings of that kind in the company rather than at his own home.

“I don’t think so, Miss. They arrived right after you left, and have been exploring the house since, but I don’t recall having seen them around here before.” Leto explained and made a small bow when they arrived at the doors to Jude Heartfilia’s study. Lucy took a deep breath and knocked, wondering about why her father’s guests would roam around the house. Did he hire a new team of bodyguards?

“Yes?” Jude’s voice sounded, and she entered.

The study was big, with high ceilings and made of dark wood. It was full of bookshelves and diplomas hanging on the walls. In the middle, right in front of a giant window, was Jude Heartfilia’s heavy wooden desk, and behind it, in a big leather chair, sat the man himself. He wore a dark brown suit, his blond hair, that was just a little darker than Lucy’s, combed back meticulously, and his piercing gaze directed right at her. It made her feel immediately uncomfortable, since usually he barely looked up from his work when he requested to talk to her. But today everything seemed to be different.

“Ah, Lucy. You’re back.” He stated and Lucy nodded, averting her eyes.

“Yes, father.”

Only then did she see the woman sitting in one of the heavy chairs across from Jude. She had big blue eyes and gorgeous white locks, which she had bound up in a high ponytail. They must be dyed, Lucy thought to herself, because the woman could only be a few years older than her. She gave Lucy a welcoming smile as she took in her black turtleneck and suit. As far as Lucy could see, she wore a skirt that fitted the blazer rather than pants.

A little farther, half hidden in the shadows of the bookshelves, Lucy spotted a man, wearing a black long-sleeved sweater and dark grey cargo pants. He had his arms crossed behind his back, and apart from his salmon-coloured hair Lucy couldn’t recognise anything about his face.

“This is Miss Mirajane Strauss, head of Strauss and Co.” Jude introduced the white-haired woman who in turn stood up and held her hand out for Lucy to shake. Frowning, she took it and realized that the woman would be visibly higher than her even without her heels.

“Strauss and Co. as in the security agency?”

“Exactly. I feel flattered that you have heard of us already.”

“Only bits. I have heard you’re supposed to be the best.” Lucy smiled, meaning her words as a challenge. When she could get rid of those who claimed to be the best, her father would be out of options.

Mirajane returned a smile so sickly sweet that Lucy knew she had understood the meaning of her words exactly but didn’t take it as an insult. That was interesting. “That is what people say, though I would not be so audacious as to say so myself. I like to let my records speak and my clients decide.”

“I have hired Miss Strauss and her people because of certain threats I have been receiving lately, and since I will be gone more often for business trips in the near future.” Jude explained and watched Mirajane stand by the side of his desk.

“Death threats?” Lucy questioned, not quite comprehending the reason for the sudden situation just yet. But death threats were nothing unusual among their circles, so what could have been so bad that he hired someone like Mirajane Strauss?

“Among other things, yes. In order to not restrict your freedom, they will accompany you every time you leave the estate and will guard the estate itself at all times, too.” In order not to restrict your freedom, Lucy could have barked out a laugh. Jude did not care for her freedom, he cared for her publicity meetings, for photoshoots and interviews. If it was just about her freedom or even her studies, he would gladly keep her at home with the best teachers he could find.

“I understand.” Lucy nodded, and so did Jude. She was dismissed and went to her own study in order to begin with her studies, and to start making plans on how to get rid of her new babysitters once again.

  Lucy: Guess who just got a new set of bodyguards.

 +++

 Natsu knew the girl was special the moment she entered her father’s study. The way she carried herself, the way she smiled and talked. She hated the idea of bodyguards, and if it hadn’t been obvious from how stiff she had become the moment she realized who Mirajane was, he would have known at least by her files. Or the deadly smile she had sent her boss. A challenge, no doubt.

Lucy Heartfilia had a track record of getting rid of both bodyguards and suitors within only a few weeks. It seemed that her game had even levelled up over time. Be it her scaring them away by being bratty and insufferable, or simply by proving them not fit for the job of protecting her by sneaking out in the middle of the night and getting photographed by some paparazzi, she had gotten rid of them all. That’s why Jude Heartfilia had contacted Mirajane, whose agency was said to be the best. Especially after the death threats and the failed attempt to break into the estate, which he probably hadn’t told his daughter about, he just needed to be sure that the heir to his company was in safe hands.

“My daughter is to be guarded at all times, do you understand, Miss Strauss?” His deep voice cut the silence, and Natsu turned his gaze from the door to the man. Mirajane nodded, gifting him her sweetest smile. It was part of her work concept, to be sweet and seem innocent. In reality she was the most dangerous person Natsu had ever encountered, and they both had been high tiers in the military before taking on their job as bodyguards. She believed that potential threats would underestimate her for her good looks and sugary words and make the mistake of coming forward, which gave her the opportunity to not only keep them far from her protégés, but also eliminate the threat emanating from them one way or another, constantly. And so far, her tactic had always worked, without exception. Dangerous men seemed to just love to underestimate kind women.

“Do not worry, Mr Heartfilia. You made the right choice to entrust Miss Lucy to us.”

“Well, well. I guess time will tell if your words are as honourable as they sound. You can go catch up with the rest of your team now.” He dismissed them and Mirajane stood up, made a polite bow, and motioned for Natsu to follow her. While Lucy’s words had been a challenge, his were a warning. If they couldn’t deliver the way he wished, he would get rid of them immediately.

Once the door fell shut behind them, the white-haired woman let out a sigh. “So, what’s your impression?” She asked, and Natsu started walking down the hallway. While Mirajane had been signing legal documents alongside Mr Heartfilia, he had taken a quick look around the house, so that he would be able to know his way around once the job actually started. He knew exactly where Mirajane wanted to go to next.

“Of the girl or her father?” He asked.

“Tell me both.”

“He seems to care for her safety, obviously, but not the way a loving father would. He cares the way an owner of some precious artifact would, and she knows. Their relationship is awful, to say the least, and believing the research I did it’s not even surprising. She hates how planned out her life is, and even more than that she hates bodyguards.” He stated and watched as Mirajane chuckled softly.

“Oh, that seems about accurate. You remember what we talked about the other day?”

“About how I’m to act around her?”

“Yeah. Be careful. I have a feeling that she will make it harder on you than the others.”

Now it was Natsu’s turn to sigh. Yes, she probably would. But he wasn’t Natsu if he would let that get in his way.

Stopping in front of the girl’s study, he raised his hand to knock, waiting for her soft voice to call them in.

Lucy Heartfilia’s study was very different from her father’s. It was packed with books, too, but where his seemed to be a bunch of classics that were bought solely for the purpose of making him look wealthy and intelligent, hers seemed to be personal. There were novels, and books about all kinds of scientific ranges or biographies about scientists and activists, and a whole shelf was packed with just what must be her old schoolbooks. Her desk was of lighter wood and an almost white colour, but even larger in space than his, and there were pens and markers of all colours neatly organized on it, right next to a big computer screen. In front of the chimney on the side wall there was a small coffee table, surrounded by armchairs and a small couch. On the table there was a staple of novels. The room seemed cosy, and personal.

“Oh, Miss Mirajane. I wasn’t expecting you to come and see me.” Lucy smiled confusedly and stood up from the chair behind her desk, starting to walk around it. Natsu couldn’t help but let his gaze roam her body again. It was gorgeous, to say the least. She had all the right curves in all the right places, wasn’t too tall either and seemed quite delicate. Her beautiful blonde locks framed her pretty face, and he could see that she wore only little makeup to accentuate her natural beauty. The girl was absolutely stunning.

Mirajane giggled. “Please, call me Mira. You don’t have to be so formal around me. I’m here because I wanted to talk some things through with you personally and thought that you might feel better if your father wasn’t present.”

This seemed to make the girl insecure, and she furrowed her brows in confusion.

“Sure. Would you like to take a seat?” She motioned for the armchairs in front of the chimney and Mirajane nodded. Once they were sat down opposite each other, Natsu went to stand behind his boss. Lucy gave him a polite smile, which he returned.

“To not beat about the bush, I’m sure you already noticed Natsu.” Mirajane introduced him and he nodded when she glanced up to him.

“He is my best man, and while my whole team will constantly care about the safety of you and your family, he will be your personal bodyguard. He will accompany you to university and to all kinds of other events. I’m afraid he will even be there when you just meet friends, as your father requested.” To Natsu it was obvious that Lucy hated every word coming out of her mouth, and yet she kept up a perfect smile. She didn’t blame Mira, he realized, even though she would make her job as hard as possible.

“What I wanted to ask you was, do you have a boyfriend, Miss Lucy?” Mirajane continued, earning a confused look from Lucy. For a moment, she didn’t seem to know what to say.

“Why is that relevant?”

“Because of the current situation, it would be an advantage if it wasn’t too obvious that Natsu is your bodyguard. Since he will be around you every time you leave the estate, a practical tactic would be for him to pretend to be your boyfriend. Only if you are comfortable with that, of course.” She quickly added, but Lucy didn’t seem entirely convinced yet. “You would not have to do anything you don’t like, just introduce him as such. If you do not want to go with this possibility, we can arrange some other cover story, of course. Our job is to take care about your safety while keeping you as comfortable as possible, so please don’t hold back with criticism.”

Lucy stayed awfully quiet for some minutes, thinking it all through. Eventually she nodded, giving Mirajane a smile that seemed a lot more honest and also mischievous than all the smiles she had put up before. Natsu swallowed hard at the wicked gleam in her angelic brown eyes. “If this is the best possibility, then I should not be the one to turn it down.”

“Great. I will leave you two to talk everything through then and check up on the rest of the team. I wish you a nice afternoon, Miss Lucy.” Mirajane stood up and bowed, before leaving the room in calm strides. When the door clicked shut behind her, Natsu turned his gaze towards Lucy.

“Will it be possible to tell the truth to my closest friends?”

“I’m afraid that I might have to advise against it.” Upon hearing his voice for thew first time, Lucy gave him an odd look.

“Just advise? Then I will tell them.“ She said, such finality in her voice that he knew, no matter what he would say would not find any soil to grow on.

“Is there anything else you would like to talk through or ask?” She questioned and stood up.

“No, Miss. I will remain here in the study with you, though.” She nodded before turning around and returning to her studies. Natsu decided to roam through her bookshelves in the meantime.

 He was currently studying an entire shelf full of astronomy books, wondering how someone could ever read something like that without banging their head against a wall, when Lucy cleared her throat behind him. Startled, he turned around, only to find her standing only centimetres beside him. How had she gotten there so quietly?

“Do you like astronomy, Natsu?” She purred, staring right up at him with her big brown doe eyes. He tried not to let it show how much impact they had on him.

He shook his head. “Can’t say I do, Miss. If anything, I’m more of psychology guy.”

“Psychology, huh?” She responded, inching closer. “Call me Lucy, will you?”

“If you wish me to.” He swallowed. What reaction was she trying to get out of him?

“I do. I’ve had psychology classes for some years myself. Loved them, though I had no time for them anymore upon entering university.” She murmured, curious eyes roaming over his chest muscles and biceps before she raised them to stare right back into his. “Have you ever been to university, Natsu?”

“I’m afraid not. After finishing high school, I went straight to the military.”  He responded, not sure as to why he was even telling her. He usually didn’t talk about his personal life to his clients.

“The military? So, you really are a tough guy…” Lucy stated, laying a hand on his arm. Only then Natsu realised that she was purposefully manipulating him, bringing him out of the concept. He shook her arm off and hardened his gaze.

“Yes, I am. May I help you with anything, Miss Lucy?”

Looking up at him, and seeing the change in his expression, Lucy smirked. The game had begun.

“Please, call me Lucy.” She repeated and turned away, walking back to her desk. With furrowed brows Natsu stared at her retreating figure, swearing that her skirt was higher up than it had been in her father’s study.

She wanted to play games, huh? Good thing he was a player then.

Hey Sweethearts, it’s me. I’m writing this fanfiction because, obviously, I love Fairy Tail, but also because I am not a native english speaker and I want to up my english game. I would really appreciate some feedback!

Have a lovely Day, your Duchess

[be-dazzled]

Day 2: Alluring Fairy Tail World Pairing: Gray Fullbuster, Juvia Lockser Series: Fairy Tail Rating: M for sensitive language and content

It was a long road ahead and Gray’s beaten body couldn’t wait to jump into his bed for a much deserving rest. A day or two would do.

The ice-make mage got tired of listening to flame-brain’s whining two towns ago. Flame brain had the audacity to complain when he was the reason of the three day delay. Okay, okay maybe not just him. There was Erza and Gray to blame too. Lucy was crying all the way down to Magnolia. Something about the reward cut and her apartment rent. Gray was just thankful Natsu shut his mouth up before he fed him Erza’s luggage, wagon included, to keep him quiet. That would make them move faster.

Team Natsu arrived at the foot of Magnolia. Gray sighed in contentment. Finally, some good news. Gray couldn’t wait to reach his apartment.

 “Oi! Isn’t this Juvia?”

 Gray’s heart jumped a little hearing the name – her name. He immediately searched for her vibrant blue hair in the crowd, only to find a cherry one standing next to a newsstand, holding what appeared to be a magazine in his hand. Gray scoffed inwardly. Since when did that flame brain start reading or even become interested? Then, he suddenly remembered something. Gray took a second look at that little magazine flame-brain was holding. To Gray’s horror, Sorcerer’s Weekly’s latest issue was now all over Magnolia. The vibrant blue hair he was searching for was on that issue.

 “What? Let me see.”

 Erza walked up to the newsstand, leaving her wagon behind. Team Natsu followed, minus Gray, and gathered around the stand to get a hold of the copy and confirm the news themselves.

 “Wow, it really is her.”

 Once Gray heard the confirmation from Lucy, he dashed to the newsstand and snatched the copy from Natsu’s hands.

 “Hey!” complained the Fire Dragon Slayer. But they fell on deaf ears.

 Gray perused the magazine, running his troubled eyes from top to bottom and then back up. His midnight eyes turned green, figuratively, as he confirmed that it was really Juvia, his Juvia, on the cover and she was too provocative – with her point finger resting on her lips, telling the viewer to keep quiet. And her legs? Her legs were wide open, leaving so little in the imagination.

 Gray’s blood boiled in anger and then something else.

 And what was up with that caption? Some like it hot? A picture of fire-eating Natsu rolled by his head, causing one eye to twitch. Juvia liked it cold because she loved a certain ice-mage, right?

 “Are you gonna buy this issue, young man?”

 Blood rushed to Gray’s head. Why would he buy a magazine when he had the real thing back at the guild? But Gray composed himself and played it cool.

 “No, thanks.” He returned the magazine on the stack and rejoined his group.

 “What kind of magazine objectifies women like that?” complained Gray.

 Which earned a raise of a brow from ‘some-like-it-hot’ Natsu.

 “You didn’t say that with Mira-chan’s cover last week.” reminded Natsu.

 Gray froze at the sudden guilt that hit him. He had no qualms staring at Mirajane in a green bathing suit enjoying the beach. So, why was he acting like he was on a higher moral ground? Gray had to think of some excuse and quick before Natsu called him out of his bullshit.

 “T-that’s d-different!”

 “Huh?” Natsu walked past him, oblivious of the fact that his question turned the ice-mage make tomato red. “But I don’t see any difference.” Said Natsu, which he meant finding no difference in Mira and Juvia’s pose in their respective magazine covers.

 Lucy the Celestial mage, feeling a little playful, chimed in. “Why are they different, Gray?” She didn’t stay behind to know.

 “I-i-it’s just different, alright!”

 Lucy shook her head. “How many years now and he is still denying it. Poor Juvia.” said Lucy to herself, chuckling.

 When his team was in a good distance, Gray ran back to the newsstand. He collected all the jewels he received from the job and handed them all to the old woman owner. Then, he grabbed all the copies of Sorcerer Weekly and left the owner dumbfounded.

 Gray walked around Magnolia hogging all copies of Juvia’s Sorcerer Weekly issue: some peeking out of his cross-body bag, while the rest he carried. He smiled at himself, proud of coming up with the best idea – by buying all the copies of Sorcerer Weekly, no one would see her Juvia in such daring pose. Gray felt triumphant.

 Until he passed by another newsstand which actually hanged a number of magazines for display. Gray checked inside his pocket and came up empty.

 Now what should he do?

 …

 Gray dropped on his bed like a hot potato, sprawled over the mattress like a spread eagle. Damn, he was exhausted. He was tired running around Magnolia all afternoon to do random jobs and earn jewels to buy all of Sorcerer Weekly’s Juvia Lockser issue. Now he had a hundred of those issue stacked beside his bed.

 He failed to realize that Sorcerer Weekly wasn’t sold in Magnolia alone. (But we will give it to Gray for trying.)

 He raised the well-wrapped gift he found earlier at his coffee table and inspected it. The ribbon was blue and neatly placed in the middle. He recognized the craftsmanship to be Juvia’s. She was good in that kind of stuff -making pretty things. Gray, on the other hand, could not make anything that can pass as pretty even if his life depended on it. Except when using his ice-make, that’s his wheelhouse.

 Gray ripped the white wrapper to see what was inside.

 Only to find the 101th Sorcerer Weekly issue he was about to add to his collection. But this one had a sticky note on it.

 ‘IS GRAY-SAMA PROUD OF JUVIA?’

 “Baka.” The cute handwriting pulled the corners of Gray’s mouth into soft smile. She even put a cute little heart at the end. “Of course, I’m always proud of you.” said Gray, talking to the seductively shushing Juvia on the cover. “But I’m not too happy about this position…”

 Gray’s thick brows furrowed. The more he stared at the cover the more he regretted it. He was feeling a nosebleed coming so he better just flip the page and find where the actual interview was printed. He needed to see words instead of the picture of Juvia’s leg parted... he needed to stop. But he was in his room, alone. So, it wouldn’t be so wrong if he just took a peek… no. But now one’s gonna see him if he… no. It wouldn’t be right. Still, he was a young, hot-blooded man and it’s the healthy thing to do – no, no, no!

 He flipped the pages frantically, trying to fight the temptation to linger on that cover, and stopped only when a page piqued his interest. It was a half-page photo of Juvia. His eyes softened, lingering on Juvia’s photo. He knew Juvia wasn’t a vain woman. She hated getting her photo taken or talking about herself. So it surprised him that in this particularly issue, Juvia indulged the readers.

 Juvia’s photo came out well – perfect even – but it was nothing compared to the real thing. It would do, for now. Looking at the colored portrait, Gray allowed himself to admit that he missed Juvia. That woman got under his skin and now she became a permanent fixture in Gray’s life, even to the point that sometimes he’d feel a sudden sense of emptiness when he was away from her for too long.

 Gray’s dark longing eyes were not the only ones that traced Juvia’s features. His finger followed his gaze: from the crinkle of her blue eyes, pink-powdered cheeks down to her disarming smile.

 Nothing was more alluring than a woman’s beautiful smile.

 Gray heard that somewhere and he couldn’t agree more. Of all of Juvia’s sexy features: her breasts, her waist, her legs, the sexiest curve on Juvia’s body was her smile.

 Gray never told a soul about it but that smile, that curve of her lips that was full of love when she talked about him, when she said his name, that smile that made his stomach flutter. It was the last thing he thought about at night and the first thing he saw in his mind in the morning.

 Gray turned to the next page and read the words written on it. Just as he expected, instead of sharing about herself, Juvia talked about Gray the whole time. He let out a sigh of satisfaction. He cushioned one arm behind his head while the other held the magazine as he read, all smiles and all satisfied.

 He didn’t have to worry anymore. Those lowly bastards may see Juvia in that provocative position but the world would know, when they read the actual article, that Juvia Lockser belonged to him – Gray Fullbuster. She was his.

 They could look but only Gray was allowed to touch.

 “That’s my Juvia.” He smiled to himself; that full grin grew wider and wider as he read all the nice things Juvia could say about him.

...

Writer’s Corner: So what’s up? We are on Day 2 of Gruvia Week. FT World isn’t really my element but I hope you guys enjoy this little drabble I made for GW.

Also, you guys know which cover I was referring to, right? I’m sure Gray appreciated that and did not appreciate everyone looking at that. lol.

See you next entry: Day 3! #GruviaForever

[razorblade180]

OC test: Halloween

Pick a costume; easy as pie. Have fun and get candy.

Valerie:*Wearing Astrid’s clothes from How to Your Dragon 2* Whoop whoop! I love Halloween and I love this character!

Nick:*dressed as SAO Kirito* You look like nice.

Valerie:Thanks, you really like swords huh?

Nick:I mean who doesn’t? Can’t go wrong with a cool blade.

Valerie:Isn’t your character suppose to have two? You only carry one swo-

Nick:*summons arma gigas sword*

Valerie:You are a genius......

Lucas:*dressed as Neji from TWEWY* Well aren’t we a bunch of nerds right now? I like it.

Valerie:Funny, I thought you’d be some kind of ninja or samurai.

Lucas:I’m kinda unironically those things all the time.

Nick:Aren’t you a moody teenager with little motivation most of the time.

Lucas:Let me live my okay!?

*a smoke bomb goes off*

Tenzen:*jumps out in a pink naruto jumpsuit* Did someone say ninja!?

Valerie:*cough* Where did you get a smoke bomb!?

Lucas:Question, why is it pink and not orange? It could’ve matched your hair.

Tenzen:Use that semblance of yours and maybe you’ll find out.

Lucas:........

Lucas:*grinning* Okay that’s cool as hell.

Nick:What’s cool as hell?

Tenzen:*clothes turn orange as he activates semblance* Anyone can wear a jumpsuit; who can create their one chakra mode design? This guy can.

Nick:That’s cool as hell!!!!!!

Tenzen: *bowing* Anyone seen Jin around? I want to show her!

Yujin:Ahem!

Everyone:*turns around*

Yujin:*hands confidently on her hips as she’s dressed like Tifa, but with a twist. On her back is the buster sword and her hair spiked like Cloud*

Tenzen:*breathless*

Yujin:I had to represent two of my favorite things. Badass women who punch things and cool guys with big swords.

Valerie:Your parents would be proud.

Yujin:😁

Tenzen:I think Yujin might be the coolest.

Nick:What if i told you that Jael is right behind with the perfect cosplay for her fighting style, body type, and hair?

Valerie:And also looks really hot.

Tenzen:*turns around*

Jael:*dressed like samurai Erza Scarlet. Complete with her hair up and her own sword* Sup everyone, are you all okay?

Everyone:*blushing* We’re fine....

Tenzen:*slightly staring*

Yujin:Last time I checked her eyes were a little higher Tenzen. *tapping her foot*

Tenzen:*flinching* Sorry!!!!

Sienna:*dressed like Jessie from Toy Story* Told you someone was gonna cheek you out.

Lucas:Aye, that’s an interesting choice.

Sienna:I can relate to Jessie on a personal level.

Jacquelyn:*wearing the same outfit as Gaia from Captain Planet* Aww you guys look so happy dressed up. Where’s Summer and Carmine?

“Big sis is getting ready*

Everyone looks down to see little Garnet in a wolf onesie.

Garnet:Rawr!

Jacquelyn:Well aren’t you just the cutest little thing I’ve ever laid my eyes on!!!! *picks him up* I could just eat you up!

Yujin:So does Carmine’s little brother come and go as he please?

Lucas:Kids play by their own rules.

Jacquelyn:Well this little wolf pup can stay forever if he wants to!

Garnet:I’m apart of big sis’s costume.

Valerie:Isn’t little red riding hood a little bit too on the nose?

Carmine:*steps in as Gerhem from Bloodborne* Who said anything about little red riding hood?

Valerie:I should’ve guessed....

Yujin:*eyes shining* Why are you always so cool? Why do you have to be in another universe?

Carmine:Because your Jaune likes blondes slightly more than red heads apparently.

Yujin:(Oh you’d be surprised.) We’re gonna have a private talk about that later.

Garnet:Carmine!!!

Carmine:Hey there my little monster!!! *holds him* having fun dressing up with your cool big sis?

Garnet:Ah! A hunter, imma fight you. *waving paws*

Carmine:*gasp!* Tiny paws! My only weakness!

*both laughing*

Everyone:(Since when does Carmine look happy?)

Lucas:That just leaves one left. What’s taking summer so-

Summer:*rushing in* I’m here!!!!

The crew is surprised to see her rush in out of breath. She’s wearing brown shoes, black tights, and an over sized green sweater with two broad yellow stripes that slightly cover brown shorts. Reluctantly she’s holding a kitchen knife.

Summer:I tried putting on the blue sweater with the pink stripes and grabbing the stick but it wasn’t working out.

Tenzen:I guess you can say you didn’t have enough “determination.”

Lucas:If you look in the mirror is it “still you”

Summer:......

Summer:Gosh you two, I “love” your undertale jokes.

Nick:Can you not say that word while you dressed like that please? I don’t need Shiva getting ideas.

Summer:Whatever, let’s just go get some candy.

Everyone:All right!!!!!

[tbehartoo]

200 Follower Thank you

Once upon a time, I said hey I’m about to have 200 followers. That’s 199 more followers than I ever expected to have. Maybe I should show these people some appreciation for following my hodgepodge of a blog? I asked what would be considered a good Thank you and received a whopping one (1) reply to the possibilities I mentioned. This is a result of that poll. Please note: I will NEVER volunteer to do this again!

200 Head Canons from the various fandoms I’ve written fan fic for (Fairy Tail, Miraculous Ladybug, and Voltron: Legendary Defenders). Please note these are made up things from my very tired brain and not necessarily thought through or even complete ideas, though I did try to make them internally consistent there are no guarantees. They might contradict each other and most certainly will contradict canon. Please take everything with a grain of salt, and enjoy!

Erza Scarlet (Fairy Tail)

1-Erza only likes red fruits- strawberries, cherries, raspberries dragon fruit, apples, etc.. But they have to be red in color not other versions of the same kind of fruit. No black cherries, green apples, or the like- she can taste the difference even blindfolded.

2- Erza likes to go stargazing on summer nights, but can’t sit still for watching clouds.

3- Between missions she will occasionally try to write poetry. It does not go well

4- She has never told anyone about the poetry!

5- There is a small part of the space she uses for her requip items that contains the locked box with her writing journals. 

6- Erza and Mira like to go shopping together. The stores tremble in fear when the two are on a campaign to find the perfect outfit. One boutique has had to hire a couple of mercenaries at the door to give the staff sufficient time to brace for impact, whenever they have a sale and the girls are in town.

7- There is a cat colony near Fairy Hills and every single cat knows Erza. They are all feral cats, but they trust Erza to provide calming attention.

8- Two things Erza does in any new place is find the baths and find the gyms. 

9- She likes to go to different gyms to observe new fighting techniques, but she doesn’t like to be recognized so she always goes in disguise.

10- Every time she asks to be taught a new technique, there is one guy (you know that one guy) that feels he needs to mansplain things to her.

11- This man is always handed his ego on a silver platter with a side serving of crow. Sometimes quite painfully.

12- Erza was once invited to an underground gym by a woman she met at the baths. She was so surprised to find it was a group dedicated to learning to fight like the Great Titania. Most of the women had histories of being abused, but had been inspired by the leader of the Fairies to stand up for themselves and get safe. They then worked to make sure that others are safe on the streets of their city and in their homes. Erza actually broke down at learning of their strength and resilience. 

13- The only time she purposefully took off her disguise was for these women to thank them. She then spent the rest of the night helping them train.

14- Erza is demisexual which is why she fell so hard for Jellal as she had a strong connection to him. 

15- She continues to have fond feelings for Jellal, but is no longer romantically or sexually interested in him.

16- Erza doesn’t bother to tell others in her guild about her changed feelings for Jellal which means the girls are always trying to get them alone together whenever he’s in town.

17- Meredy once sneaked a sensory link between Erza and Jellal and herself to figure out what was going on with them. She never told anyone what she found out, but she worked at toning down the FT girls’ attempts at matchmaking. 

18- Erza works really hard to keep her strength in check. She has trained with Guildarts to get her control as finely tuned as it is.

19- Erza has yet to find a mode of transportation that is fast enough for her. It’s a pity that Magnolia doesn’t have jet propulsion or rockets.

20- Her favorite hot drink is cinnamon tea with a little sweetened condensed milk in it.

Lucy Heartfilia (Fairy Tail)

1- Lucy prefers the feel of cotton over silk, but she prefers the look of silk over cotton.

2- She has to invest in cotton, linen and woolen clothing as a member of Team Natsu since they don’t burn as easily as other materials.

3- Lucy has asked Levy to look for a fire retardant/ fire proofing spell to be able to use for both her clothing and her apartment.

4- Lucy was taught to crochet when she was a young girl. Though she doesn’t make the fine lace she was expected to produce as a child, she does use those skills to make tiny amigurumi mice for Happy.

5- Lucy also crochets scarves and hats every autumn for her friends. Often she makes a couple extra ones to donate to the local women’s shelter.

6- Aires likes to bring Lucy wool like thread/yarn from the spirit world for her to use in her projects.

7- Lucy likes to go fishing with Natsu and Happy.

8- She does not like catching fish with Natsu and Happy.

She like casting her rod and reeling it in, but she does NOT like baiting her hook or killing the fish. Natsu and Happy have no problems taking care of those things for her.

9- Lucy prefers moving rivers and creeks over still ponds and lakes.

10- She loves going to the beach to watch the waves break along the shore.

11- Lucy was taught how to steer a boat, well it was a yacht but why quibble over details?

12- She once claimed she was going to sail around the globe, but her father told her not to talk nonsense and then sold their boat to keep her from ever trying.

13- Lucy made friends with the birds in the garden and can whistle their calls almost as well as the birds themselves.

14- Lucy has always told herself stories. Even when she’s on a job with Team Natsu she’s often composing short stories as her day goes along.

15- Lucy hates the taste of truffle and will instantly distrust anyone who claims to like it.

16- She prefers to have short hair, but keeps hers long to be able to use the comb and brush set her mother used to use.

17- Lucy has two special silver hair pins that her mother gave her when she twelve. They belonged to her grandmother and her great-great-aunt. They get passed down to the next generation on the twelfth year after they have sparked. They always end up with a celestial mage.

18- Lucy’s understanding of celestial contracts is both modern and archaic. She is well aware of what is expected from a modern magic user, but she has been well taught in the lore of celestial beings. 

19- Most celestial spirits are pretty plain speaking with what they will, can, or won’t do. Some however, the eldest spirits, are very tricky and will find whatever loopholes through imprecise language they can to do what they can to be maliciously compliant. This is why, even though the elder spirits are more powerful than most of their siblings, they are rarely contracted with.

20- Lucy eventually has five contracts with elder Celestial Spirits. None of them have been able to twist out of their responsibilities to her.

Natsu Dragneel (Fairy Tail)

1- Natsu only flies off the handle so easily so that he has “legitimate” reasons for using his fire.

2- He has to eat a lot to have enough fuel for his fire.

3- He really just likes to eat and uses his fire so often so that he has room to eat more.

4- Natsu often lies awake at night trying to come up with good insults for Gray, Gajeel, and even Loki, though he rarely remembers them thus having to fall back on old and well used insults.

5- When Natsu does remember a new insult, he will rate the reaction on a scale of one to five and if it doesn’t get a four or a five he will drop using it.

6- One time he said something about Levy to Gajeel that was rated a ten and after he healed up, he never used that particular insult again.

7- Because of the sheer amount of energy that routinely flows through Natsu, he has a faster healing rate than most people, including dragon slayers, except Wendy. Wendy’s magic makes her quick to heal so that she can heal others.

8- Natsu has several potted succulents that he and Happy take care of whenever they are in town. 

9- Natsu talks to his plants and has named each one.

10- One time a new neighbor overwatered his plants while Natsu was ot of town, killing all of the plants.

11- The new neighbor was mortified and offered to buy replacements, but Natsu was offended. You don’t buy FAMILY MEMBERS they are FOUND!

12- Natsu and Happy took nothing but desert and costal assignments for a year to find new plants for their place. They even took a few over to the neighbor to teach them how to care for the very laid back plants.

13- Natsu isn’t dumb, he’s just simple. No need to be all stealthy when you can just flame broil a problem. Right?

14- Natsu likes to come in Lucy’s apartment through the window because she’s always good for a laugh when he does it.

15- Happy, and Natsu, likes to stay the night at Lucy’s place because she will read them a bedtime story.

16- Natsu’s favorite stories are about the constellations and the heroes that got put into the stars.

17- Happy’s favorite stories are about animals acting like humans, and who like to eat a lot. (Basically he likes Redwall stories, just those from Earthland)

18- Natsu hates the Pied Piper story because the kids didn’t help their lame friend go with them and Happy hates it because he scared all the rats away. Somehow the book with that story in it mysteriously burned to a crisp.

19- Natsu doesn’t have a favorite color. It changes every time someone asks.

20- When Natsu is really stressed Happy will curl up in his lap and start purring. When Happy is stressed, Natsu will raise his body temperature slightly and then hold Happy close until Happy feels like he can purr again.

Gray Fullbuster (Fairy Tail)

1- Gray doesn’t like the feel of most of his clothes touching his skin.

2- He only likes the feeling of heavy clothes touching him. Lightweight clothes bug him.

3- Gray prefers to take jobs that take him up in the mountains because it’s cooler there, and there tend to be less people he has to deal with.

4- Gray’s favorite place to vacation is the beach in the summer, but otherwise he prefers foothills in the spring for all their blooms, mountain slopes in the winter for the ice and snow, and mountain valleys in the autumn for the color change of the leaves.

5- While ice and snow don’t bother Gray, and even charge up his magic, he still prefers to come in and sit in front of a toasty fire with a warm beverage after being out in the snow.

6- One reason Gray doesn’t object to Natsu being around and being annoying is because he always has that portable space heater thing going after being cold when Natsu is around.

7- Gray experiments with poetry when he travels on his own. He never writes any of it down.

8- Gray is obscenely good with numbers and logic puzzles.

9- He’s been banned from many gambling establishments for exposing their crooked practices, even the ones that usually go unnoticed.

10- Gray kind of assumes that other people also see what he sees and doesn’t understand why he’s expected to spell everything out for the rest of Team Natsu.

11- Gray is slow to warm up to people. He’s been let down before, so once he considers you a his friend, he’s your friend for life.

12- People that really know Gray were surprised at how quickly he befriended Lucy. With most people Gray takes at least a year to even start acknowledging their existence.

13- Gray thinks Lucy is like a little sister that needs careful watching up until Tenrou.

14- After Tenrou, Gray thinks of Lucy as an equal that can and will kick his butt if he needs it.

15- Gray is not afraid of Erza, unless Natsu is involved.

16- Gray was once emotionally and verbally abused by a girlfriend, it’s what makes Juvia’s first behavior and love declarations so uncomfortable for him.

17- Gray will never admit that he’s jealous of Natsu and Gajeel’s exceed companions. But he does want to have his own flying cat occasionally.

18- Gray’s least favorite food is egg nog ice cream. He just doesn’t care for the flavor and you couldn’t get him to drink hot egg nog for love or money.

19- Gray’s preferred hot drink is Lapsang souchong tea. He likes the pine flavor in his tea cup.

20- One time Lucy, Erza, and Wendy invited Gray to accompany them to a fancy Hotel for afternoon tea. It was the only time he willingly wore a three piece suit!

Marinette Dupain-Cheng (Miraculous Ladybug)

1- Marinette likes to make lots of different kinds of pastries.

2- She only likes to actually eat a few types of pastry.

3- There are baked goods that she makes, but never eats because the textures give her the heebie jeebies. She knows other people love them so she’ll still make them.

4- Sabine, Marinette’s mom, was a martial artist of Chāquán. It is “a Chinese martial art that features graceful movements and some acrobatic aerial maneuvers. Chāquán also includes a large range of weapons.” Sabine was especially proficient in the use of the hookswords and the spear, which she has taught Marinette.

5- Sabine still goes over her forms every morning and young Marinette practices with her.

6- Marinette was fairly good at the acrobatic maneuvers until she hit puberty. Her mother often reassures Marinette that after she finishes her growth spurts she’ll be back to doing those moves again without messing up every third one.

7- Even though her father is an only child Marinette has dozens of “uncles” from around the world. Tom played on a rugby team in college and even was in the minor league for awhile. All of his team mates were made honorary uncles when Marinette was born. They get dozens of Christmas cards, letters, and emails to keep in touch.  

8- Marinette and Tom once did a tour of Europe only staying with his old teammates. They never had to find a hotel during the two weeks they traveled. They’ve had a fair few of them stay at their place in Paris, too.

9- Marinette often makes presents for her uncles, aunties, and cousins throughout the year, and receives small presents from them as well.

10- She was saving up for a trip to Australia and New Zealand for her sixteenth birthday, so that her family could visit with a couple of uncles in that part of the world, but suddenly Hawkmoth came up and now she’s not sure they will ever take that trip. 

11- She mentioned Chat Noir and Ladybug in an email to one of her ‘cousins’ in New Zealand who hadn’t heard of them, so she linked them to Alya’s Ladyblog telling her that this was really going on in Paris.

12- Two weeks later she got a video from them asking Mari to pass it along to Ladybug and Chat Noir. It showed their family and all their neighbors doing a haka for Paris and the heroes. They said it was to encourage the heroes to be strong and have courage in the face of Hawkmoth.

13- Mari cried when she saw the video as she knew what a big deal it was for them to do this for her. She asked for a translation of the words and was surprised to find it was actually written by her cousin’s grandfather, who was considered a great warrior chief, specifically for LB and CN.

14- Mari asked if only someone from her cousin’s tribe could perform that haka or if it would be considered appropriation for her and her friends to do it, too. She received another video that was an interview with the man who wrote it. He explained the tradition, the words, and showed exactly how each part should be performed. Then he gave all of Paris his blessing to do his haka for the heroes.

15- Marinette brought Alya over right away and showed her the videos. Alya promised to put both videos up right away. The traffic shut down the blog host’s servers!

16- Marinette invited this cousin’s family to visit during the summer to thank them for all that they did. During their visit an akuma attack happened. This family was delighted to suddenly have Ladybug calling the city to order and joining in as all across the capital young and old were preparing to dance strength and courage into being.

17- Marinette has noticed that her strength to stand up to Hawkmoth and perform her duties as Ladybug has increased dramatically ever since she, and the rest of Paris, has started doing the special haka.

18- Marinette likes to put youtube on autoplay and start on a random video when she’s trying to come up with a design and feels blocked. She stops it on the third and seventh video and then tries to come up with a design based on the video’s title.

19- Marinette has just started trying out needle felting and loves to make little felt mice for the animal shelter Chat Noir has endorsed.

20- Marinette has become the vice-president of the Chat Noir fan club at Francois- Dupont. Nino is the president.

Plagg and Tikki (Miraculous Ladybug)

1- Plagg watches  a video of camembert making on loop whenever he can get Adrien’s phone. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=atOpLj-q5nA) [People in the comments are seriously convinced that Plagg would like this video!] 

2- Tikki likes to watch crafting videos and always makes sure to leave an encouraging comment on each one she watches.

3- Tikki prefers sweet things to eat, but she can recharge on almost any food. 

4- Plagg actually needs those fermented, slightly spoiled foods to recharge completely otherwise he’s acting on about half power.

5- Plagg wanted to explore Adrien’s house more, but Gabriel’s interest in Adrien’s ring has made him stick close to his boy.

6- Plagg spent the first month of being awake getting familiar with current events using Adrien’s phone. The invention of the computer has made him ridiculously happy.

7- Plagg may or may not have had something to do with a computer virus that infected the mansion’s protection protocol after Gabriel was akumatized. Now Adrien can get out of his room an time lockdown is initiated and doesn’t have to feel trapped in his room.

8- Tikki doesn’t sleep as much as Marinette does. She gets about an hour a night.

9- Tikki emits strong “sleep rays” when she sleeps to help her holders get to sleep. Her creative types can be overthinkers that need help dropping off. 

10- Tikki doesn’t need to sleep. Whenever creation is happening she is energized and really doesn’t need to rest. She’s the originator of “pulling an all nighter”

11- Tikki tends to get a surge of power at the equinoxes while Plagg receives more power at the solstices.

12- Tikki loved coming across this video of The HU and plays it as often as she can. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jM8dCGIm6yc

13- Plagg found out about punk rock and now plays it as Adrien sleeps hoping that the messages of the music makes through that thick layer of “presentability” Gabriel has forced on Adrien. 

14- Tikki sometimes leaves Marinette’s purse to flit over and peek at Nathaniel’s progress on his drawings if the lesson is boring.

15- Plagg’s hearing is very sharp and his ears let him tune into conversations without moving much. He is careful to check into the class gossip, but also listens in to what’s happening in Mr. Damocles’ office and the teacher lounge.

16- Plagg listened in on Tom and Gorilla’s talking about Marinette and Adrien and snickers whenever he remembers Gorilla saying, “My money’s still on Marinette confessing first. Mine’s to dense to realize how far gone he already is. He might believe she likes him on their golden wedding anniversary.”

17- Even though Plagg can phase through matter he still has a healthy respect for Gorilla’s brute strength and doesn’t want to test if he’d be quick enough to dodge the big man in the even of an emergency.

18- Tikki spends many nights creating pictures of fractals using Marinette’s digital drawing tools.

19- Tikki may or may not be the cause of Marinette having more advanced capabilities digitally than any major studio on earth.

20- Tikki despises the nickname Sugarcube, but it is the best out of Plagg many, many tries so she puts up with it. Stinky Sock is the mildest nick name Tikki has ever called Plagg. 

20.B- Most of her other names for him would be considered unprintable, but they’re in dead languages so it’s probably safe for her to use them. 

20.C- Plagg tries not to mess up so badly that she uses the Babylonian curse on him.

20.D- Plagg can tell how angry Tikki is by what language she slips into. The older the language is, the more angry Tikki is.

Nino Lahiffe (Miraculous Ladybug)

1- Nino used to play percussion on everything he ever came in contact with until his uncle brought over a small hand drum for him to play. His parents called it ‘tapping’ when he was little.

2- The rule around the house was that he could only tap on the drum and not other parts of the house, when he was inside. Everything outside of the house was fair game.

3- Nino’s uncle came over every day to teach him the basics of playing his doumbek.

4- After a year of lessons, his uncle would take him to his weekly drum group where the more experienced drummers would teach little Nino drum tricks like rolls and pops.

5- By the time Nino was eight, he was a regular member of the drumming group and often went with them to play at weddings, parties, or other events. He was the cutest kid! When he was all decked out in traditional Moroccan garb playing smoking hot solos, he was often the source of viral videos.

6- In school he tried to join the band, but he was far too advanced for the beginning players and they didn’t have an advanced group for him to join.

7- The band teacher wanted to help him continue with his music so he showed Nino how to record and remix his own drumming.

8- The summer after that, he spent every day busking with a different member of the drum group to be able to afford his own recording equipment and programs.

9- The summer music money plus his share of the money for playing events with the drum group allowed him to be able to turn his room into basically a recording studio.

10- He soon became the group’s recorder which led to him also video taping performances.

11- The year before Stoneheart happens, the art teacher was able to teach Nino some basic film editing.

12- Nino’s tapping was one way for him to relieve his anxiety, the other way he tries to release it is through blowing bubbles as a kind of meditation.

13- It was hard for him to use his bubbles again after the Bubbler incident.

14- When Alya and Nino got locked in the cage at the zoo, it took all of ten seconds for Alya to figure out he didn’t actually have a crush on her. It took fifteen seconds for her to figure out it was Marinette he’d liked. He was really embarrassed about it.

15- However, after talking a lot about things they liked and disliked they found they really had a lot in common. Alya told Nino about Marinette’s crush on Adrien and Nino was upset for a moment, but then Alya made him laugh and he was suddenly thinking, “Marinette who?”

16- By the time they were out of the cage Nino was firmly in Alya’s corner for matchmaking Marinette with his friend Adrien.

17- Nino’s anxiety can get high during an akuma attack, unless he has someone to watch out for or protect, then he’s calm and collected. Which makes running after Alya toward the big scary monster the better choice for him during those moments. 

18- Nino was a natural at wielding the Turtle Miraculous as it played to his need to protect.

19- After being Carapace, battles in which he wasn’t called to be a protector of Paris were excruciating to watch even as he kept Alya from coming to harm. He craved using the Miraculous as it allowed him to care for more people at once.

20- Nino introduced Wayzz to both smooth jazz and rap music just to see what the kwami would do. He loved everything Nino threw at him! Wayzz requested a copy of Nino’s latest mixes and a song by Sade before he had to go back to the Guardian. Nino found an old iPod to give to the little godling who claimed it would be his most precious treasure. Nino couldn’t talk for a full five minutes as he was too embarrassed and proud to speak.

M. Gorilla (Miraculous Ladybug)

1- Gorilla and Tom played Rugby on the same team in college.

2- He often stops by the bakery after dropping Adrien off at school if he isn’t needed by M. Agreste immediately.

3- He’s convinced that Adrien is in love with Marinette, as are Tom and Sabine. It’s a topic of great interest and much discussion when he comes in, if there aren’t other customers around. Sabine and Gorilla have a bet on who will confess their feelings first. (Sabine’s money is on Adrien.)

4- Tom and Gorilla met their future spouses as they acted as bouncers at a local club on weekends all thorough their Junior and Senior years at university.

5- Sabine and Gorilla’s significant other, Jerome, were in a group of friends that frequented the night club regularly. Sabine dared her friend to get the cute bouncer’s phone number by the end of the night. After a few shots of liquid courage, he’d brazenly asked Tom for a date and his number, but Tom gently, and privately, told the young man he was straight. He then motioned for Gorilla to come over and introduced the two. The young man returned to the bar with two phone numbers: Gorilla’s for him and Tom’s for Sabine. 

6- Tom made the cake for Gorilla’s commitment ceremony, before same-sex marriage was legal in France. When Marinette was ten, he also made the wedding cake for Gorilla when he and Jerome were legally able to be married.

7- Jerome had a child from a previous relationship that he and Gorilla took care of for the first five years of the girl’s life. She was taken away when the girl’s mother claimed that Jerome wasn’t the father of the child. DNA tests proved he wasn’t. The mother tried to sue another man for child support, then took the girl and moved to another country.

8- Gorilla and Jerome were distraught to have their little girl taken from them. They tried to adopt another child, but they were denied and not even allowed to foster any children.  

9- Gorilla started working for the Agreste family shortly after he lost his daughter.

10- Emilie saw how angry he was over anyone that wasn’t an Agreste coming near Adrien and eventually got the story out of him over why he’d be so protective to keep people from potentially taking her son away. It was something she was very appreciative over. Gorilla considered her a friend after she went out of her way to find out about his heartbreak.

11- Gorilla is legally Adrien’s godfather. When Emilie heard what that woman had done to Gorilla she took Gorilla and Adrien to her lawyer and made Gorilla legally responsible for Adrien and any future children she may have regardless of his continuing employment by the Agreste family. Gabriel signed the papers without complaint, but didn’t actually read them carefully, or register exactly what he was signing..  

12- Gorilla worked for the DGSI, the French CIA, as an informant while playing rugby. It allowed him to travel for legitimate reasons and keep tabs on one of the players for the DGSI.

13- After university, Gorilla was recruited to become an agent. He was injured on an assignment and decided to retire to be an up and coming rocker’s body guard.

14- He and Jerome get invited backstage any time Jagged is in town to be able to catch up.

15- Gorilla really enjoyed doing his job as a bodyguard, but wanted to be home more with Jerome, especially after their little Marie was taken from them.

16- The DGSI came to Gorilla to ask if he’d be interested in working for them again as they look into the workings of one Gabriel Agreste and the Gabriel empire.

17- Gorilla was actually key in getting Nathalie in the door at Gabriel. She is also an informant gathering evidence on Gabriel Agreste.

18- Gorilla was speechless when their higher ups requested that he and Nathalie continue to aide Gabriel once he became a magical terrorist, they were interested in seeing the power of the moth Miraculous and what it could do. Nathalie complied willingly, but Gorilla refused to do anything that would put Adrien in trouble.

19- Gorilla despaired of Adrien ever figuring out how to give him the slip, and he was so proud when Adrien succeeded at eluding his tailing him through the Metro. Then he panicked because he just lost his child!

20- Gorilla is fully aware that Adrien is Chat Noir. He was the one to change the angle of the security cameras, and conveniently show Adrien their blind spot right outside his window. (Seriously, that boy needs all the help he can get.)

Pidge Gunderson/Katie Holt (Voltron: Legendary Defender)

1- Katie was introduced to Pokemon when she was very young.

2-For awhile all she managed to find were Pidgeys in her game. And she collected every one she could.

3- Matt laughed at her for this and nicknamed her “Pidge”.

4- Katie didn’t like his teasing and vowed to make her pidgeys the strongest she could to beat Matt’s team.

5- She eventually fulfilled that vow.

6- Later Pidge went on to collect and evolve almost every pokemon in the pokedex.

7- Matt never recovered from being beaten by a flock of pidgeot, and has refused to pick up the game ever since that time. Pidge considered that her greatest accomplishment until she infiltrated the Garrison.

8- Katie has loved robots ever since she watched the Iron Giant movie with her dad.

9- Katie first started building robots when she got a MeccaSpider Robot Kit for her sixth birthday. 

10- She was dissatisfied with how klunky the spider turned out to be and proceeded to borrow a few parts from something of Matt’s to make it work better. It’s ability to move as quickly and silently as a spider was not appreciated by all the inhabitants of her home. 

11- Katie has never grown out of her ability to see other uses for mechanical parts past their intended use, or for cannibalizing parts from anywhere she can get them.

12- While Katie likes to build robots, what she really adores is programming them. She hopes someday to make a small robot that can serve to help the physically disabled with everyday tasks.

13- Seeing her mother’s father struggle after he fell and broke his hip was what has spurred Katie on in her endeavor to build helper robots.

14- For all the squabbling and tattling that she and Matt engaged in, they were very good friends. When he left for the Garrison, and had to stay there, Katie cried every night for a month.

15- Katie hates to be in the middle of drama, but she loves to watch it unfold. She has been guilty of bringing snacks to watch Lance confront someone about a perceived slight.

16- Katie is a multishipper of fictional characters. When Hunk asked if she shipped Lance with any of the other cadets at the Garrison, she read him the riot act for shipping “real people”.

17- Pidge faked a crush for a whole week while in the Garrison when Lance wouldn’t stop pestering her about it. Then the female cadet showed up with a girlfriend and Lance tried to console Pidge about not having a shot since her “crush” was into girls. Pidge didn’t know how to feel about the entire situation and started telling Lance to “Zip it!” whenever he started up about Pidge needing a girlfriend.

18- Pidge finds the idea of “love at first sight” baffling and illogical, unless it’s a sweet piece of tech. Then she totally gets it. Her idea of a “sweet piece of tech” is not the same as Lance’s, but Hunk gets her.

19- Pidge is curious about everything! She likes to tinker with things to find out how they work as well as read about discoveries others have made.

20- Pidge finds sociology fascinating. People and cultures can be hard to understand, robots are nicer that way, but once she gets to meet so many other sentient beings, see their environments, and how they adapt to them- she thinks they are almost as awesome as the robots.

Hunk (Voltron: Legendary Defender)

1- Hunk’s grandmother (his father’s mother) was a chef at an upscale hotel. She’s the one that gave him his first lessons in cooking, knife skills, and developing one’s palate.

2- Hunk’s grandfather (his father’s father) was a fisherman who demonstrated traditional fishing techniques at their island’s living history museum three times a week once he’d retired. There was always plenty of fish to go around on those days.

3- Hunk’s other grandfather (his mother’s father) was an electrical engineer and worked for the county as lead engineer. He often had little models of circuits and old mother boards that he let Hunk tinker with and program.

4- His other grandmother (his mother’s mother) was the designated worrier of the family. She also had a lush garden that she tended daily. It was full of strange plants that often bore unusual fruits for the family to eat. 

5- Hunk learned to combine the strange fruits with the kitchen skills he had to make things his younger siblings would eat. Not every experiment turned out well, but he always tried to analyze what went wrong and strategize a better plan to execute his vision for the star ingredient.  

6- Hunk and his cousins often had “Bake offs” when they went to TiTi’s house for sleep overs. Hunk usually lost as baking was not his forte.

7- When he and his cousins did their own version of “Chopped” then Hunk usually won hands down. Especially when given a strange basket of ingredients to work with.

8- Hunk is highly anxious but working in the kitchen helps to calm him down. The rules for cooking are simple and there are few surprises he’s not prepared to deal with.

9- Hunk uses his cell phone to ease his anxiety about things in the kitchen. He always takes a photo with a time stamp when he leaves the kitchen. Also he has remote access to all appliances with alerts to let him know when everything is being used.

10- Hunk has installed cameras and view screens on every major appliance in his family’s homes so that if he starts to worry about them, he can check his phone to see what their status is.

11- The first time Hunk left something on in the Castle he realized he’d need to come up with the same kind of thing so he wouldn’t worry while on a mission.

12- The Castle had no clue what Hunk was doing, but eventually allowed Hunk and Pidge to install primitive sensors in the kitchen appliances (and the garbage disposal for some reason) but absolutely refused to allow remote activation of anything. Hunk had to be content with that.

13- Hunk has difficulty standing up for himself, but his anxiety has “Protective Mom” override mode. He will absolutely end someone messing with his friend or family member.

14- Hunk’s favorite color isn’t yellow, it’s orange. However he was drawn to the Yellow Lion because they both want to protect their friends and family.

15- The first night Hunk spent in the Castle of Lions he made sure to lock the door then proceeded to do a traditional siva tau in memory of his family whom he never expected to see again.

16- Hunk has composed a special siva tau that includes some of the people and places he’s been. It offers each of them encouragement to be strong, to trust in the goodness of others, and realize that they are not alone in the universe.

17- Hunk has performed his siva tau on only three occasions. Each time it was at the request of Allura for other groups that had lost their home planets. After each performance Hunk would have several people ask if he would teach them the dance.

18- After the defeat of the Galra, Hunk composed a second siva tau to celebrate the victory and also to mourn those who were lost to the conflict.

19- On the anniversary of this moment Hunk, his family, and any Paladin that is near will gather to celebrate. The evening always closes with the bon fire being stoked up and a performance of that second siva tau. 

20- At Hunk’s death there was a large crowd full of many species that honored his family and expressed their grief at his passing by performing Hunk’s first siva tau. It was said that the earth trembled as each foot/appendage touched down and the skies carried the sound of their voices all around the globe.  

[vannahfanfics]

The Visit

Category: Romantic Fluff

Fandom: Fairy Tail

Characters: Natsu Dragneel, Millianna

Requested By: AwarenessBringer (FanFiction)

Millianna’s earthy-brown eyes were lidded in perfect contentment as she gazed out of the train window at the picturesque countryside just beyond Magnolia City stretching across the horizon. The gently rolling hills dotted with great oak trees and the occasional isolated homestead against the backdrop of a clear blue sky really had a painting-like quality that made Millianna feel at ease, almost as if she were home; it was an odd dichotomy, considering that she was far from her home, the mage guild Mermaid Heel, and traveling to the city for a personal visit. Everyone always just assumed that she was coming to see Erza- which she would definitely do before leaving- but in actuality, the people that who would be greeting her at the train station were none other than a certain cotton candy-haired fire mage and his little Exceed partner.

Millianna had been routinely commuting to the home of Fairy Tail for several months now, after the dramatic upset at the Grand Magic Games. The first visit really had been to visit Erza, considering that the fiery redhead had been missing for several years which had saddened Millianna terribly, but foiling a plot to effectively end the world really didn’t make for the best situation to play catch-up. During that jaunt, Millianna had run into Natsu and Happy; Millianna, despite growing up, was as enamored with adorable kitties and kitty-like creatures as she had ever been, and so naturally she had fawned girlishly over the confused but delighted Happy. Natsu had ever so graciously told her that she could come visit Happy as she pleased, and she had been elated to take him up on his offer. So, whenever she found herself off from missions, she meandered over to Magnolia City in search of the dragon-slayer and his beloved partner. At first, Millianna had really only been concerned about the little cat, but in time she had actually come to enjoy the time she spent with Natsu as well. He was a bundle of energy and fun that never ceased to make her laugh or smile.

In fact, Millianna was considering the possibility that she had a slight crush on him.

It wasn’t the most concerning revelation in the world. It wasn’t like there were any policies or laws forbidding relationships between members of different guilds. It was just strange because Millianna had never even considered any romantic pursuits at all, let alone with the fiery, passionate fire mage who had foiled their plans at the Tower of Heaven (which worked out perfectly well and for the greater good, but she digressed). Most of all, Millianna was just concerned that such a crush could only lead to her own heartbreak; she was almost positive that Natsu did not see her in that kind of light. There were plenty of beautiful Fairy Tail women that were much better options for him than herself.

Delving into her own subconscious made the landscape suddenly seem lifeless and depressing. Despite the blooming green and brown tones of the rolling landscape, that’s all it was- smudges of color with no real life to be had, just endless hills and forests. With a small groan, she tore her gaze away from the window to stare sadly at the empty seat across from her. Suddenly she imagined Natsu sitting there, holding his belly and groaning from motion sickness but still flashing her a small smile insisting that it was nothing, he would be just fine. He was a tough guy, both in talk and in action, but it was amusing how such a little thing could affect him. Millianna felt the smile forming on her lips; with a startled gasp, she smacked her cheeks and squeezed her eyes shut to banish the phantasm. It was utterly useless, because Natsu’s beaming smile just danced in the dark of her closed eyes, adorable and enticing.

“Oh, dear… This is not good,” she tutted to herself as she opened her eyes again to pull her knees to her chest and prop her chin on them miserably. Her inner instincts were buzzing for her to hop right on the train back, because surely this evening would go quite differently than the ones before. How was she going to be able to keep a straight face when she was head-over-heels for the handsome Natsu Dragneel?

~~~~~~~~~~

As Millianna stepped off the train onto the platform, she instantly caught sight of a shock of bright pink hair. A beaming face and an excitedly waving hand were next to grace her vision; a pink rosy tint matching the shade of the dragon-slayer’s locks rose to her cheeks as Natsu ran over to her, little Happy tottering at his heels. Oh, here we go…

“Hey, Millianna! Glad you could make it,” Natsu grinned at her. He always had a habit of smiling so widely that his eyes scrunched up and one would swear that his face hurt. Millianna found it one of his cutest habits. Ah! Stop! You can’t think anything he does it cute! She scolded herself, discreetly pinching her leg through her striped stockings to punish such thoughts. Trying to seem nonchalant, she returned his beaming happiness with a small smile appropriate for a young lady who had no romantic interest in a young man- or, in her case, was desperately trying to hide blossoming feelings for said strapping young man…

“Hello, Natsu. Hello, Happy,” she added while crouching down to pat the blue Exceed on the head. As she scratched a little behind his ears, his tail waggled and he sighed in utter bliss.

“Millianna, you give the best head scratches,” he purred quietly. Millianna giggled, but the cute moment was cut abruptly short when Natsu grabbed her by the wrist and all but yanked her back to her feet. She cried out in alarm as he thrusted her hand into his fluffy locks of hair with a serious face.

“Really? Lemme see! Scratch my head, Millianna!” If her face had been the color of a carnation at the beginning of their exchange, then it was certified to be a rich, luscious shade of red now. Millianna knew that Natsu was just going to bug the hell out of her until she did as asked, so she resigned herself to the situation up front. With a hesitant expression, she gently began to run her fingers lightly through the tousled pink locks to lightly run her nails over his scalp, and was struck at how impossibly soft his hair was; it really did feel like cotton candy, bouncy and pillowy. After a few seconds she shifted her hand to scratch the area of his head right above and behind his ears, and almost like a cat would, Natsu leaned into the action with something very reminiscent of a purr. He gave her a sleepy smile with lidded eyes as she continued her ministrations. “Ahhh… You’re right, Happy… This feels so nice,” he sighed as his shoulders slouched down. He really was enjoying it!

“All right, that’s enough!” Millianna huffed. Natsu looked impossibly sad when she retracted her hand and even let out a miserable “Aw…” That sad little pout is so adora- Agh! No, Millianna! Bad! Bad! she scolded herself once more with an even more painful pinch. Dammit, she was going to get over this crush even if she went home with bruises dotting every inch of her skin. “Wh-What do you want to do today?” she asked quickly, trying to distract herself (and Natsu, so he could wipe that aggravatingly cute pout off his face). Like a switch had flipped, that equally endearing smile was back on his face. Millianna truly could not win; no matter what little action he performed, her little heart went a-fluttering. This is going to be harder than I thought…

“Oh, yeah! They’re having a little flower festival in the town square for a few days, Millianna, and I thought you might like to see it! I got dragged along by Lucy and all the other gals already, but it was kinda fun. So whadaya say?” he asked her. Millianna absolutely adored flowers and was definitely willing to visit the limited-time installment. Still, that nagging little voice in the back of her enamored mind could not help but chime that a flower festival was an undoubtedly romantic setting… Shut up, she told it grumpily, Natsu went with other girls already. He doesn’t find it romantic at all! She told herself that, but she still couldn’t help but blush brightly again when he grabbed her by the wrist and took off with her in tow when she nodded in agreement.

~~~~~~~~~~

Millianna momentarily forgot her present predicament when the two of them arrived at the town square. She stood in the entrance, eyes glimmering with unbridled joy as she basked in the brilliance of the flower festival. Though it was a small area, the town square was exquisitely decorated, beginning with an arch wrapped in trawling strawberry vines, complete with a mixture of blooming white flowers and succulent red fruits that begged to be plucked from the vine. There was no one around to chastise her, so she snuck up to the arrangement to do so, biting down on the end of the berry and practically melting as its tart yet sweet juices spread across her tongue. “They’re absolutely delicious!” she told Natsu as she chewed on the yummy fruit. Natsu nodded eagerly in agreement, having shoved a fistful of them into his mouth already. As he reached for another one, she walked over and lightly popped his outstretched hand. “Leave some for others to enjoy!” she scolded him with a waggling finger.

“Okay! Okay! No need to hit me,” he whined while waving his hand about. She hadn’t even hit him hard enough to leave a red mark; he was just being dramatic, she could tell, from the hint of a smirk that pranced in his pouty lips. Oh, there he goes again! So cute… she lamented silently as her heart began to incessantly pound against her rib cage. To avoid further dwelling on the situation, she hastily whirled around and marched through the arch.

“Let’s go!” The town square was arranged in a circular fashion with a large bubbling fountain as its centerpiece; spreading bilaterally in either direction from the arch were various sculptures made of flowers and hedges, finally meeting in the middle directly parallel to the arch with the grandest of them all. Millianna did forget her schoolgirl crush temporarily as she walked alongside Natsu around the town square, pausing to admire each work of floral art. One of them was a pair of little girls in pigtails carrying baskets of daisies carved from thick green hedges with their matching dresses demarcated by bright red poppies. Another bore the likeness of a massive dragon propped back on its powerful haunches, its wings formed by curtains of wisteria blossoms and its body formed by a collection of violets, complete with roiling flames made of white bell-like flowers spilling from its mouth. The next was a knight that bore eerie resemblance to Erza, down to her streaming red hair woven from huge roses. With each statue came a menagerie of soothing aromas wafting into Millianna’s sharp nose and easing her tensed nerves. How could she not be soothed among the beautiful flowers?

She would think that, until Natsu did something undeniably cute, like making funny faces at the Erza-yet-not-Erza sculpture or playing in the fountain with Happy until he got yelled at by the resident officiator of the festival. As she watched his energetic antics, Millianna laughed amiably with one hand over her mouth, unable to contain the sheer joy she got from seeing him live his life with complete zest, no matter what he was doing.

“Come on, Millianna, let’s go see the big one!” he called to her, running off for the other end of the square. As she watched him go, smiling back at her with his dragonscale scarf waving in the wind behind him, Millianna’s happiness was replaced with the sharp bitterness of pain. I really am… in love with him, aren’t I? she thought as her hand came to rest against her fluttering, fragile heart. No amount of reverse psychology or painful punishment was going to change that, despite her best efforts. Her gaze dropped to the cobblestone walkway; a smile was again on her face, but one of defeat and sadness. There’s nothing for it…

There was only one way out of it for Millianna: she would have to confess and have heart her broken, and that would be that. “Millianna? Are you comin’ or what?” came Natsu’s impatient cry from the large sculpture. Sucking in a breath to steel her courage, Millianna raised her head and hurried over to stand beside him in front of the festival’s pride and joy. It certainly was a magnificent specimen, a grand white castle with daffodils as gold accents and even a functioning drawbridge with a running-water moat. A blonde-haired princess waved a handkerchief from her tower window down at a young squire in a red-and-blue tunic. “Man, how long do ya think it took to put this thing together?” Natsu grinned in admiration as he craned his head back to observe the entire piece, one hand over his green eyes to shield it from the sun’s bright rays. Millianna only shrugged slightly in response. Though they had given her much joy beforehand, now Millianna couldn’t even force herself to enjoy the spectacle of nature’s brightest and most beautiful blossoms. Her sudden melancholy did not go unnoticed by the boy. “Millianna? Are you okay? You tired?” he asked her while cocking his head to the side. Under his innocent, curious gaze, Millianna squirmed uncomfortably. Of course the fact that he was concerned with her well-being ignited those butterflies in her stomach. There was currently no one else admiring the castle sculpture, so if she confessed now, there would be no one to witness the embarrassing spectacle of her rejection…

It's now or never, she insisted, but despite her consciousness raring to go, she could not force her tongue to form the simple words. She clutched her hands in front of her chest tightly, quivering as the anxiety gripped her body. She would’ve never imagined that it would be so impossibly hard! Millianna had always been a direct individual, always saying what was on her mind, but for once in her life, she could not do so. “Millianna?” As Natsu stepped closer to her with his eyebrows knitted together in concern, all she could do was eye him fearfully out of the corners of her eyes. Would he laugh at her? Would he find her crush on him abhorrent? As her mind spiraled rapidly into dark, depressing possibilities, the little voice in the back of her head actually said something useful for once. Natsu isn’t like that.

No… No, he isn’t. Millianna found that realization incredibly reassuring. Of course Natsu would never react so horribly; he was just such a nice, genuine person, after all. Even if his feelings for her were completely platonic, he would do his best to let her down easily and try to salvage their friendship, at least. Millianna sucked in a breath, finally ready to admit the truth to him. She turned to face him, determination flaring in her dark brown eyes… But she couldn’t open her mouth to speak for Natsu’s lips lightly brushing over hers.

Any bravado that Millianna had mustered up vanished like smoke in a fierce wind. Her face burned in an inferno so intense she could swear that Natsu was using his magic on her; of course, he was not. Natsu’s eyes were nearly as wide as hers. It seemed that Natsu had been leaning forward to peer into her face at the exact moment that Millianna had turned around, yielding their present compromising position. Though several seconds had passed, neither of them had moved an inch, so their lips were still locked in a light, feathery kiss that had Millianna both internally screaming and with the overwhelming urge to push forward to claim Natsu’s mouth fully. She almost, almost found herself doing so, but caught herself as her eyes were drifting shut. With a startled gasp, she jerked back, finally pulling her lips from his.

“I-I’m sorry, Natsu! I-I didn’t mean- um- o-oh dear…” she stammered as she turned her back to him, hands squishing her bright red cheeks as she effectively overheated in mortification. It felt like the world was spinning around her. Crap, crap, crap! What do I do now?! We just kissed! With a long, uncomfortable whine, she squirmed about as her jellified brain attempted to arrive at some logical follow-up, but it was pretty much useless. Her neural synapses were firing in all the wrong ways, more focused on her body’s physical reactions than actually being useful. She had her eyes shut tight the entire time, and once she cracked them open, she was terrified to find that Natsu had walked around to stand in front of her. With a loud “Kyahhhh!” she went to whirl right back around again, but he caught her by both her wrists to prevent her from doing so. “Wah! N-Natsu, what-?”

He didn’t answer her, just pulled her forward to crush his mouth against hers. Her brain melted further into a pile of goop so not a coherent thought formed in her mind; her body took over for her, thankfully. A soft “Mmm…” rumbled in her throat as she melted against him and her eyes drifted shut once more. The way his lips were dancing gently and rhythmically with her own sent electricity humming through her nerves, sending a warm, fuzzy feeling buzzing in every cell of her body. The butterflies were back, but not uncomfortable flapping in a frenzy, just lazily fluttering about to yield an oddly pleasant humming sensation. Her heart settled from a pounding drum to a steady thump in tune with the beating of Natsu’s own heart, which hovered over hers as their chests flushed together. She could faintly feel one of Natsu’s hands releasing her wrist to thread through her wavy chestnut locks; similarly, Millianna’s hand had migrated to the back of his neck to twist those fine, pink locks around her fingers. Millianna was not sure how long they stood there kissing in front of the magical castle sculpture, nor did she really care as Natsu pulled back slightly. Their eyes opened to lock gazes, Millianna’s warm brown tones meshing with the bright green of his. “N-Natsu… I don’t understand…” she managed to murmur finally. Her gaze dropped down to her feet as she tried to process what had just occurred. It couldn’t possibly be that Natsu… has feelings for me, too…? She did not resist him as he curled a hand beneath her chin to force her gaze back up to his. He had a saccharine sweet smile on his face that made Millianna’s heart clench in happiness and love. The way he was looking at her right now, like she was a divine blossom more beautiful than the crafted arrangements that surrounded them, unique and perfect… There was simply no denying it.

“Well, we came so close that I figured I might as well just finish the job,” he grinned teasingly. His hand left her chin to sweep across her cheek, as lightly as a feather but Millianna continued to feel his touch long after his hand had retreated to settle on her hip. “You were… going to say something?”

“I like you, Natsu… A lot.” It came out so easily that she didn’t even quite realize that she had uttered it. A satisfied smirk mixed with a loving smile crossed his lips, and intense feeling smoldered in his spring green irises as he continued to just gaze at her like she was the only thing in the world. She peered at him shyly through her lashes and was relieved to see that big smile that scrunched up his eyes with pure elation appear on his boyish yet handsome features.

“That’s good, otherwise that woulda been kinda awkward,” he laughed while rubbing the back of his neck. After he chuckled a minute at his own joke, he opened his eyes to look at her adoringly. “I like you a lot too, Millianna.”

“So… Does this mean you want me to keep coming to see you?” she asked with a small smile as she swayed slightly back and forth, hands clasped behind her back. The action really did make her look like a confessing schoolgirl.

“Uh-huh! And I’ll come see ya, too! I wanna see Mermaid Heel.”

“Oh, why?” He looked at her in amusement, like she had asked a really silly question.

“Because I wanna learn all kinds of things about you, Millianna.” Her heart hammered against her ribcage as she swooned dramatically at the purely effortless, endearing line. She was definitely head-over-heels now; little pink hearts were practically beating in her eyes. He grinned boyishly at her as he took her hand, entwining their fingers, and using his other to point towards the other side of the flower festival that they had yet to observe. “Whadaya say we call this our first date, yeah? We still got plenty of flowers to look at, and we can go eat afterwards, too!” He’s so dreamy! Millianna shrieked internally, clutching her heart as it threatened to pop right out of her chest from how hard it was beating. She simply couldn’t handle all his adorable lovey-doveyness.

“Okay!” she nodded gleefully, and even dared herself to lean her head on his shoulder. It was the perfect size and shape for her to nestle comfortably against him, making her feel even more giddy; dare she say they were made for one another! Pretty much nothing could bust Millianna’s elated bubble… except Happy, standing in front of them and sniffling as he stared up at them with tears dripping down his furry blue face.

“Happy? What’s the matter, bud?” Natsu gasped in alarm. Happy sucked in a breath through his nose to try and keep the snot from dripping from it as he rubbed at his big black eyes.

“You won’t forget about me now that you’ve got her, right, Natsu?” he asked miserably. Millianna couldn’t help but feel guilty at the poor little kitty’s distraught display. He loved Natsu so dearly; of course he would be worried that Natsu would become so engrossed in a new relationship that he would be left behind. Natsu shook his head firmly.

“Of course not, Happy! You’re my bestest bud!” Happy stared at him with wide eyes for a second, then began bawling harder than before. With a loud, relieved wail, he ran forward to hug one of Natsu’s legs and bury his teary, snotty face into it. “Hehehe, I love you too, little guy,” Natsu mused and leaned down to reassuringly scratch the top of his head when Happy mumbled something of the same sentiment into the fabric of his pants. Millianna watched to heartwarming exchange with a small smile. While Happy calmed himself down, Natsu tossed her an amused grin. “Shall we?”

“Mhmm!” Happy just sat on Natsu’s foot, arms and legs wrapped around his leg as he continued to cry of happiness, while Natsu began walking with Millianna to enjoy the rest of the festival. She nuzzled into him contentedly, enjoying the natural heat of his body spreading through her.

She had been right when she had envisioned that this visit would be different than the others, but she was so grateful that she hadn’t chosen to take the train back…

Enjoy this oneshot? Feel free to peruse my Table of Contents!

[doginshoe]

The Draconian Huntress I

In a time where there is an impending war to come, Lucy sets forth to find the Draconian people in order to shift the tides against the demon King Zeref that threatens to take over Fiore. read on ff.net here

The rain poured down and the thunder cackled after the lightning flashed and illuminated the camp. All candles and lacrima stones shushed till extinguished as the battalion laid down for a night of light sleep, only the dull glow coming from the lamps that the soldiers on watch held near were the only sign of life that surrounded the many tents clustered in the foliage of the forest. Only a lone shadow made her way through the night. A young woman, barely reaching the age of nineteen, trudged through the drenched dirt to make her way towards the largest tent. The voices hissed through the heavy rain as she approached, her already tight clothes clung to her skin in an attempt to suffocate her as the rain continued to fall and soak her to the bone.

Inside were two women. The first that the young woman laid eyes on was Titania - the fiercest woman she’d ever seen in the battlefield. Her eyes screamed for more as she fought and her hair seemed to be almost stained from the blood that they bled - scarlet from the many soldiers she’d put down over the years. A white-haired woman leaned over the desk, long claws pointing at coordinates of the map of Fiore as her tail flicked from side to side every so often whilst deep in discussion.

The young woman’s eyes zeroed in on the way the woman’s skin morphed into scales at her waist to form the long tail of a snake. Her eyes wondering over the lamia in a degree of distrust as she made her way towards Titania. The conversation ceased when the new presence of the woman entered and the red-haired queen's eyes flicked towards the warrior that had returned.

“Lucy,” the Queen spoke, “you have returned.”

The young woman, Lucy, sunk down to one knee. Her head bowing towards the ground. “Erza, my liege. The north has welcomed to join our side - the orcs will depart once the moon has passed.”

Ezra’s eyes flickered with approval, “any trouble?”

“I struck three men down before they heeded to listen to me. The sounds of their people’s screams as they were at mercy to my Light convinced them my message should be heard,” Lucy relayed. Her hand instinctively going to clutch onto the bow that was resting on her back, but resisting as they clutched into the dirt instead.

“Very well, but Lucy will you please rise. You are no mere follower of mine, you know that - a Heartfilia woman would never serve, you only do me a favour to help with the annihilation of Zeref.” Erza reached down a hand and helped the younger warrior up with a hint of a small. “That, and you are like my sister. I have been raising you to fight since you were three.”

“Sorry, Erza,” Lucy mumbled whilst coming up from her feet, “I do not want people to think that from my disrespect that they can do the same.” Lucy’s eyes flitted over to the snake woman across the large, thick wooden table. Her slitted eyes didn’t miss the glance and her pointed tongue slipped over her beast-like teeth.

Erza didn’t miss the exchange, her every sense honed to perfection, and she let out a chuckle.

“Mira has no qualms with me. The woes of our past conflict aren’t to compare to the destruction of Zeref’s demons,” the red-haired warrior explained, her eyes locking with Mira’s. Lucy flinched internally - only a fool would look directly into a lamia’s eyes for they’d be lost to the blue and be under their command. The archer's arm went for her bow-

Mira giggled sweetly at the blonde's movements, but ignored the threatening move. “Which is why I must advise you, dearest Titania, to ask the Draconian people,” she hissed, voice becoming stern with every word that whistled from her mouth.

Lucy’s brown eyes widened and shot a look towards her scarlet commander. Surely not even she would think of such things - even with their small force and Zeref’s ever-approaching demons - Erza wouldn’t think to ask the Draco people. The messengers would be burned and killed before they could get a word out. Lucy waited impatiently for her leader's answers, her worry clawing up inside her chest.

“I told you,” Erza huffed, “even if we managed to make the journey and convince them to join us they wouldn’t arrive in time.” The Titania spoke with exhaustion lacing her tone as if the argument had been ongoing for a long while, which Lucy proposed it had.

The lamian woman slithered around to hold the white dragon piece on the map, her eyes flicking up towards Erza. “They would arrive just as the battle would commence granted we had a suitable messenger. Three days to make the journey and four days to meet at the field of Mavis near mount Hakobe. The Draconian people would be just in time for the battle and we’d have the advantage – Zeref wouldn’t expect the oncoming troops from the east.” Mira’s words sunk into the two women, leaving Erza to refute the argument while Lucy’s calculating eyes scanned the map. She knew what type of benefit having a powerful and unexpected force would be amongst the many demons that were at Zeref’s call. Many already whispered of Erza’s attempt of defiance against the demon king would be a slaughter – Lucy had heard, and those thoughts settled deep inside her when Juvia, the guardian of the water, told her of how many were assembled at the enemies’ camps.

“Not even the greatest warrior’s make it through the east forest, not to forget the day’s journey across the ancient ruins towards the border of the kingdom of Bosco. We don’t know what creatures wander in that territory. A lone messenger wouldn’t survive, I would have to send a team of skilled fighters and that would leave huge damage to our forces- “

“I’ll go. I have Levy to help guide me through the east forest. Gray and Wendy would be enough for company. We can travel light and quickly,” Lucy interjected, her voice firm as she thought through the following days of travel. She had worked with Gray before, their fighting styles worked together – not to mention that Juvia would be looking out if he were to accompany her. Wendy, as young as she was, would guarantee that they’d be looked after – she did train under Porlyusica. The medical experience would prove to be needed if came the time and the diplomat’s knowledge would surely be useful when confronting the draconian people.

“I can’t allow that Lucy! You and Gray are an asset that will be dire when the battle comes. I can’t afford to send you off to almost certain death,” Erza argued her voice raising as she sent an authoritative stare to the young archer.

Mira nodded approvingly, “I think she is correct. Do you not have trust in her, Erza?” Her slitted pupils never left Lucy, her lips curling upwards as she amended the young woman. However, Mira knew she’d regret being so bold once she entered the east forest – whilst lurking along the border she had seen the shadows of creatures unbeknownst to the world. Titania was right to interject, but someone had to take the risk.

Erza clenched her fist before slamming the gloved hand down on the wooden table. “You know very well I have complete faith in Lucy, Mira!” she bellowed, her frustrations evident to the surrounding women.

A warm hand circled her fist and the queen looked into the brown eyes of the archer she considered family. Lucy’s voice was quiet but where she stood on the matter was clear through her firm tone, “this might be what brings us victory. If there is a chance, then I have to take it.”

Erza took a breath, “Lucy…”

The blonde was already walking away, however. The scarlet-haired leader stared at the dragonbone bow that rested on the younger woman’s back. The fiery red scales glinting in the lacrima light as she walked away. It almost appeared that the woman had large dragon wings with the way the bow curved and pointed towards the user – it wouldn’t be Lucy’s first time encountering the draconian people. The Heartfilia women were known to have to go through countless trials in order to attain their weapons given to them from the descendants of the dragons that lived long ago. Muscles were worked until they were taut, eyes were honed to zero in on even the fastest targets and minds were made to be sharp. Erza frowned, but though she was displeased she couldn’t think of a better warrior to send for the almost impossible task.

“I will alert Gray and Wendy before the sun rises and you are to leave at the break of dawn.”

Lucy said nothing. Her thoughts already traveling to what she would need for the upcoming journey and what would lie waiting for her at the draconian palace.

[fantasyandromancelover]

The Tale of Tales Chapter 38

Gray tapped his fingers impatiently on Wendy's kitchen table while chewing on some mint leaves. The fairies had told him that it wouldn't take them that long to get ready but they had been preparing themselves for almost three hours.

"Geez why do girls take so long to get ready?" He thought.

Then on cue Wendy walked into the kitchen wearing the sky blue dress with white ribbon and the stitching in the shape of violets lined on to the skirt. Her hair was straight and shiny with a violet flower clipped on to the side.

"You look nice." He told her.

"Thank you."

After her came Evergreen wearing the peridot green dress complete with a corset that fit her figure to perfection while her hair was in a pony tail and a peridot necklace hung around her neck. Then came Levy wearing a slongsleeved marigold colored gown with a poppy red under skirt underneath it and a matching ribbon head band in her hair. Both Evergreen and Levy had managed to make their wings disappear so no one would recognize them as fairies.

"Not bad ladies." Gray commented. "But where's Juvia?"

"In my bedroom. Come out Juvia." Wendy called.

"I don't know about this. I feel kind of silly." Juvia said.

"Nonsense you look beautiful. Now come on." Levy insisted.

Juvia swallowed nervously and finally entered the kitchen. There she stood wearing her late mother's lace and silken white gown with her silver silk slippers on her feet and her blue hair down in curls with white anemone flowers braided behind her head. Gray felt his heart stop and his stomach drop. Never in his life had he seen anything more beautiful. She looked like an angel and seemed to be surrounded by some heavenly glow that only he could see.

"I'm not really used to wearing this stuff." Juvia said.

"But you're a princess." Evergreen said.

"My stepmother took away all my more extravagant dresses and had me wear more plain ones. She also took away all my make up, perfumes, and jewelry. She even stole my locket once but I got it back."

"Well it's a shame because jewelry and fine gowns look wonderful on you." Levy said. "What do you think Gray?"

But the poor young man was speechless at the moment and could only stand there with mouth a gape while blushing.

"Close your mouth hunter boy you'll catch flies." Evergreen teased.

Gray quickly did as she said and looked away to hide his blush.

"I...I think we should go now."

That made Juvia sad. Truth be told she was actually hoping that he would find her beautiful and the fact that he looked away and said nothing made her think that he didn't like how she looked. They went outside where horses were waiting and rode off to the village. Natsu, Lucy, Erza, and the dwarfs had walked to the village though Erza had seperated from the group to see her grandmother and they sent Gajeel with her in case another witch hunt went after her again. It was sun down by the time they all met up. Elfman and Romeo were relieved to see that Juvia was alive and well and she was happy to see Lucy again.

"I'm so glad you're alright." Lucy said as the two friends embraced.

"Me too."

"You look beautiful."

"Thank you. Levy brought you a gown also."

"Mmm- hmm. Now follow me Lucy and we'll get you ready."

Levy then took her aside to a private area where she could get her ready.

"Now then what dress shall we give you? Same as before? Gold really does suit you." Levy said. "The first gown was made from sunlight and stardust, my finest work yet."

"Actually Levy I wouldn't mind a more simple gown." Lucy said.

"Of course."

"And please don't make me look exactly as I did the night of the ball."

"Why not?"

"Because Natsu will recognize me as the girl he danced with."

"So?"

"So he can't know."

"Why?"

"Because it's... It's complicated I really don't want to talk about it. Just make me plain looking."

"Well I can't do that but I can make you recognizable this time. You'll look as you did that night but everyone will be able to see it's you."

"Okay but I'll keep my regular shoes this time."

"As you wish."

Levy then used her magic to dress Lucy in the gown of pure gold with her hair in an updo styled with gold ribbons and threads but she let Lucy's flat peasant shoes remain on her feet and didn't use any special magic to hide her identify. When the two maidens walked into the village square all heads turned in amazement. Never in their lives, had any of them seen two young women more beautiful and they couldn't decide which one of them was more lovely.

"What's everyone staring at?" Juvia whispered to Lucy.

"I think they're staring at us." Lucy whispered back.

"Oh dear. I'm not used to everyone paying so much attention to me. Normally whenever there were big events like this Stepmother would keep me locked up in my bedroom."

"I know the feeling, normally I spent events like these in the kitchen."

Romeo and Elfman began to join in the band with playing music. Young men and women started to dance in the square. Several young men were desperately trying to get Lucy and Juvia to dance with them. Wanting to be polite they accepted but some of them proved to be quite the nuisance.

"Won't you honor me with another dance?" One young man who Juvia had danced with said.

"No thank you, I think I'll take a break from dancing if you don't mind." She said.

"Oh surely you could spare one more dance for me." He kissed her hand then started to kiss up her arm much to her disgust.

"Sir this is most improper and I implore you to stop." She said.

But he just ignored her and before his lips could get any closer to her shoulder and face, Gray kicked the man away from her.

"What the hell?!" He shouted irritated.

"Oh sorry about that." Gray said. "It would seem that my leg was having a muscle spasm."

Gray was smiling and chuckling like it was a harmless accident but the man could see him gripping his dagger intensely, ready to strike should he get pushed too far. Understanding the warning the man quickly ran off.

"Hmm...Never took you to be the flirtatious type Juvia."

"I wasn't flirting with him. In fact I didn't really like him all that much."

"But you danced with him."

"Yes but I was only being polite."

"What about those other men you danced with?"

"What about them?"

"Did you like them?"

"I don't know. I barely knew them, as I said before I was only being polite."

"Oh..."

"Are you jealous?"

"What?! No! Of course not!"

"It's okay if you are."

"But I'm not! I'm just saying you should be cautious when certain men take a liking to you."

"True but I think-"

"Hey Juvia why don't you sing for us!" Romeo called.

"Oh I don't know."

"Come on. You're the best in all of Fiore."

Juvia sighed but with a smile she agreed. The musicians began to play a soft romantic ballad that was well known by many.

"Come over the hills, my bonnie Irish lad

Come over the hills to your darling

You choose the rose love, and I'll make the vow

And I'll be your true love forever." She sang with her beautiful voice as couples started to dance.

"Red is the rose that in yonder garden grows

Fair is the lily of the valley

Clear is the water that flows from the Boyne

But my love is fairer than any."

After singing that verse there was a music break, while waiting for the next verse she just causally walked around. However she was completely startled and taken off guard when the next part of the song was sung by a man's voice.

"Twas down by Killarney's green woods we strayed

The moon and the stars they were shining

The moon shone its rays on her locks of golden hair

She swore she'd be my love forever."

She looked in the direction of where the voice came from and to her surprise it was Gray. He waltzed over to her and continued to sing.

"It's not for the parting that my sister pains

It's not for the grief of my mother

'Tis all for the loss of my bonnie Irish lass

That my heart is breaking forever."

He had a wonderful singing voice and it sent shivers down Juvia's spine and blush to her cheeks. Another music break was taken. Gray bowed, Juvia curtsied, he offered her his hand, she accepted it, and the two started to waltz just as the other couples did. Throughout the dance the two never broke contact once and they never broke away from each other. Not even when it was time for the next verse which they sang together.

"Red is the rose that in yonder garden grows

Fair is the lily of the valley

Clear is the water that flows from the Boyne

But my love is fairer than any."

Their voices matched together perfectly and the two of them smiled and gazed at each other the whole time.

"Clear is the water that flows from the Boyne

But my love is fairer than any."

As they finished their song they found themselves leaning in closer. Her eyes closed, his were half lidded, and just before their lips could meet they were interrupted by the audience clapping and cheering for them. Gray's face was burning red and he quickly stepped away from her. Juvia only smiled shyly while trying to cover his blush cheeks.

Song used: Red Is The Rose by Orla Fallon and Tommy Fleming

[thefeeblehearts]

NaLu - Girlfriend?!

Lucy was on her way back to her apartment. Her train had arrived back in Magnolia only a few minutes prior. The young woman had taken a simple job request in Onibus so she could get the last 10,000 J required for her rent. The day was warm. The afternoon heat from the sun made her comfortable in her light sweater even as the cool fall breeze brushed through her hair. Stray wisps of blonde wildly dance around her face and she couldn’t help the smile that was plastered on her face. 

The job had gone well, really well. The client had liked her so much that he’d invited her back once a month to help in his small magic shop. The place was small, quaint, and perfect. Instead of catering to the popular demand of household tricks (e.g., the outfit color changer), the owner preferred curating odd magical antiques which he cleaned up and then sold to the passing noble or collector. Lucy had been asked to help identify some of the objects Joshua, the owner, had come across on his last expedition. Between her research skills and his experience, they were able to determine that the carved Stellian fertility goddess was, in fact, an object that had been charmed to curse men with infertility if they harmed the statue’s owner. They had both found the tiny artifact fascinating and nerded out about it for over an hour. Lucy was extremely excited to be invited back. 

Now she just needed to keep Natsu away so the place didn’t go up in flames. As she continued down the main market street of Magnolia she hummed feeling delighted. Up ahead, outside of a small diner, Lucy spotted Happy floating in place, white wings fluttering gently as if he were impatiently waiting for someone to exit the diner. Which was probably the case. Natsu was most like stopping for take-out. 

As the blonde approach, the door to the shop opened and she caught the fragments of conversation as a pink haired dragon slayer exited carrying three bags of boxed up food. 

“Next time bring that girlfriend of yours with, ‘eh?”

“His girlfriend?” Lucy wondered softly. She would have to ask about that. If Natsu had a secret girlfriend, as his best friend she deserved to know who it was. 

“Yeah, sure,” Natsu replied as he waved dismissively at the waiter.

“I mean it, kid! She’s the only reason why I still serve your ass!” the waiter yelled at the Fairy Tail mage’s retreating form. 

“Hey, Natsu!” Lucy called, gaining the man’s attention as well as her best friend’s. 

“Well hey there pretty lady!” the waiter waved to her. “Good to see you’re back to keep this little shit in line!”

Lucy cocked her head to the side. She knew Natsu had crappy manners and eating habits, but he really wasn’t that bad, right? And even if she was with him, Natsu was a force of nature. Nothing besides the threat of Erza could keep the slayer in line. She wondered if Erza was Natsu’s girlfriend. If the waiter was asking for his girlfriend who kept him under control, then who else could it be? She wondered when that had happened. If Erza and Natsu were dating, why hadn’t she noticed? Neither of them were very subtle people. 

Lucy smiled brightly anyway and called back, “You know it!” before she turned to face her grumbling friend. She was determined to figure out the girlfriend mystery. 

“Hey, Luce! You’re back!” Natsu cheered. “I was just headed to your place.”

“Lusshhhie’s place is the best!”

“Yeah, little buddy! Your bed just ain’t the same when you ain’t in it,” Natsu grinned like a child and Lucy’s temper flared. 

“You’ve been sleeping in my bed?” the girl yelled. Her face was now red and her eyes were shining with a unique kind of rage. “Go sleep in your girlfriend’s bed!” Lucy screamed. “What the hell, Natsu!”

Natsu looked at his blue-furred flying cat, eyes showing a concerned kind of confusion. Happy, however, couldn’t stop himself from the giggles that were bubbling up from his tummy and shoved his tiny paws over his mouth to stifle it.  

“You’re a weirdo, Luce,” Natsu sighed. 

“I’m a weirdo? You’re the one who keeps breaking into my house when I’m not there and sleeping in my bed!” Lucy heaved a breath at the end of her statement having run out of air in her attempt to reach a new pitch of screaming. Maybe the louder she got the more serious he would take her anger? 

Natsu rolled his eyes and Happy had tears running down his furry cheeks from the effort of trapping his laughter. The fire mage shrugged his shoulders, ignoring Lucy’s outburst and started to head to her apartment. 

Lucy watched him for a moment. She was stunned into a sort of silent awe as he ignored her outrage at his behavior. She took a deep breath and let it out slowly. After all, this wasn’t anything new. She had known for a while now that Natsu would stay at her place when she left for a solo mission. She wasn’t sure why, though. He had his own house, and (if that man were to be believed) his own girlfriend to torture. 

The girlfriend bit was new to her, however. Her curiosity peaked again. Who in their right mind would date Natsu Dragneel? Sure he was a great friend and loyal to his Nakama, but until she’d heard the waiter declare his dating status, Lucy had been sure the man was asexual. His only interest was getting stronger and finding the next big battle to fight. She was somewhat positive her best friend didn’t truly distinguish men as different from women.  

Natsu turned the corner onto her street, Happy flying lazily over his head, and Lucy realized that if she wanted a chance to be in her home to relax without the bottomless stomach of her best friend, then she would have to move quickly. Even though her solo job had not been strenuous, Lucy was looking forward to taking a bath in her wonderfully remodeled bathroom. Her Land Lady had recently taken to remodeling the whole complex, which caused a 25,000 J increase in rent each month, but the upgrades were worth it. It made her have to take on more solo jobs, but she couldn’t find anything to complain about. A bigger kitchen, a tub with jets, fresh paint, and new heating and air units. It was amazing. 

Lucy was panting when she finally caught up to Natsu, passed him, and run up the stairs to her apartment. She shut the door rather forcefully and locked it. “Why ya lockin’ the door, Luce?” Natsu’s voice came from behind her. He was already inside. Why? How? Lucy’s shoulders slumped as she slowly turned to face the dragon slayer. 

“Just tryin’ to keep unwanted guest from barging in,” she mumbled. 

Of course, her best friend had no trouble hearing her, his hearing more sensitive than the average bat listening to the quiet chirp of their sonar. 

“Unwanted guest? Ya expectin’ company?”

“Aye! Is someone visiting for dinner?” Happy chimed in. 

Lucy glared at her friends. Did it not even occur to them that THEY were the unwanted guests? “I was talking about YOU!” she yelled. “Go eat at your own home! Or better yet, go invade your girlfriend’s privacy!” She was stomping up to the duo, preparing to release an epic Lucy-Kick. 

Lucy let her foot fly only for it to be caught in Natsu’s hand as he smiled disarmingly at her, “Aw Luce, ya don’t mean that!” 

He had lifted her off the ground by her ankle. Her only coherent thought being that she was glad she was not wearing a towel this time. It had been none too embarrassing the last time he’d had her like this after she’d left the bath. When her towel had slipped off… Well. It had been mortifying. Natsu had acted a bit off after the incident, but only for a few hours. He’d looked haunted, which had done absolutely ZERO for her self esteem. 

“Put me down, Natsu.”

Happy was rolling on the floor laughing. He paused long enough to say, “Aye Natsu, your arm must be getting tired after holding up all her weight!” Then the blue menace continued to roll around on her new hardwood floors. 

The pink haired idiot shrugged and let her fall gracelessly onto the floor. Her head hit first, and then her shoulders and elbows. The rest of her thunking onto the floor loudly causing the neighbor underneath her to knock loudly on the floor, a quiet call for her to stop stomping around. 

Lucy moaned in pain. “Oooww, Natsu! I didn’t mean to drop me!” So much for coming home unharmed. Well. She had made it into the apartment at least. 

Slowly Lucy sat up and glared at her friend who had moved over to her dining table with his bags of food and was starting to unpack everything. There were at least three entres and four desserts that had been packaged expertly by the wait staff at the dinner he had bought from. They both frequented the place often, but she was still curious about what girlfriend he had been taking there. 

“So, Natsu,” Lucy started after she stood from the floor and moved to join her friend at the table, “who's your girlfriend? Do I know her?”

Natsu had moved to the kitchen and was rummaging through her drawers to find silverware. “Huh?” he answered. 

“Lucy wants to know if she knows who your giiiiirrrll ffffriend isss!” Happy sang. Natsu looked between Lucy’s oddly eager face and Happy’s red cheeks (the cat was holding his breath in an attempt not to laugh). “Uh, sure Luce, you know her.” The dragon slayer was clearly confused by her questioning. She could tell because he was busy scratching at the back of his head. 

“Is she in the guild?”

“Yeah,” Natsu shrugged. He sat at the table and opened the first container of food. A steak medium rare surrounded by mashed potatoes, steamed baby carrots, and green beans lay steaming in the container.  

Lucy frowned. Natsu seemed off. If he had a girlfriend, wouldn’t he be a little more happy about it? Wouldn’t he be with her every chance he got? 

“Are you gonna tell me who it is or do I gotta guess?” Lucy grumped.  

“Yeah Natsu, tell her who your giiiiirlfriend is!” Happy chuckled. The cat had settled himself on the table top, a fish magically appearing in he paws. He started nibbling on the fish as he passed amused glances at his adoptive father figure. 

Natsu rolled his eyes. “Ya know who it is Luce.” He sent her a meaningful look. He seemed slightly angry at her line of questioning. And for a second Lucy wondered if maybe they weren’t as closed of friends as she thought. Maybe he hadn’t told her for a reason? The only person who came to mind as a possibility was Mira’s little sister. 

Lucy blinked dumbly, “Uh. Lisanna, then? Isn’t she mad about how often you break into my house at night?”

Natsu was chewing his food slowly and looking at the blonde woman like she was being a bit slow. “No, not Lisanna,” he said slowly after he swallowed his bite. 

“Uh? Erza?”

Natsu put his fork down and was staring down the celestial mage with an intensity she was unable to identify. He shook his head ‘No’. 

Lucy looked over to Happy who was starting to look concerned instead of amused. Did Natsu really not want her to know? Why were they staring her down like she was the enemy in battle? Maybe she should just drop it. She suddenly felt out of place in her own home. The looks the two were giving her made her feel anything but welcome. 

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to pry,” Lucy apologized. “I’m going to get a bath. Clean up when you’re done?”

“Why are you askin’ about my girlfriend, Luce?” Natsu called as she turned to walk away. 

“I didn’t know you had one,” she shrugged. “But I guess you didn’t tell me cause it wasn’t my business. I’m sorry for prying into your life, Natsu.”

“Didn’t know?” Happy murmured quietly. “How does she not know?”

Natsu stood abruptly. He glanced down at Happy looking startled. “I thought I was clear when I told her…”

“Lucy’s pretty dumb, so maybe she didn’t understand what you said?” Happy replied. 

“I’M NOT DUMB, YOU STUPID CAT!!” Lucy turned and jumped at the blue feline, flailing wildly as he jumped into the air out of her reach, white wings spreading effortlessly. 

“Sure you are Luuushie! How else do you not know you’re someone’s girlfriend!” the cat called as he zigged and zagged around the woman’s head. 

Her arms stopped moving mid-reach. “Wh..What?” she whispered. 

Natsu’s head tilted to the side in astonishment and amusement. “We’re partners, aren’t we?” 

“Yeah?” Lucy answered breathlessly. “For years.”

Natsu nodded, looking at her meaningfully. 

“But that’s just it, we’re just teammates,” Lucy said. “I mean, it’s not like … Just partners!”

She seemed a little desperate to prove Happy and Natsu wrong. She wasn’t dumb! No one had ever asked her to date them before besides that one guy at the bookstore and Dan Straight. And Natsu had TRICKED her into being partners. The definitely meant they weren’t … Dating. Right?

Natsu’s eyes were wide and his mouth was slightly turned down at her stuttered response. He didn’t know what to say. He thought that his actions were pretty clear. He’d even told her that they’d be together forever. What more needed to be said. Sure he thought it was odd how slow the relationship was moving, but for Luce to be so oblivious to the whole thing… Hurt. 

Happy came to the rescue, “You guys have been joined at the hip since you came to Fairy Tail. Natsu had ripped apart the world in order to save you on multiple occasions. He has practically moved in with you. You sleep in the same bed every night… Lushie, how could you not know why?”

Lucy was too stunned to reply. She looked to Natsu’s strangely vulnerable expression to Happy pleading silently at her to understand. “We. You? And I? What?”

The silence between them turned awkward for the first time since they met in Hargeon. Lucy looked at her best friend. Really looked. His handsome features that she had pretended to ignore for so long seemed to stand out mocking her. His jawline that framed his face. The smile that was the equivalent to happiness in its purest state. The strong muscles of his body always tensed and ready for battle...except for the rare occasions when he was relaxed in her bed, asleep.  She stepped closer to him. Going around the table so that she could get close enough to touch the man who she had apparently been dating since he had tricked her into being his partner. 

His olive green eyes were gazing into her own and she felt guilt for the uncertainty that shown through. Natsu wasn’t really an emotional guy. Generally, he showed variations of joy and anger. Seeing this sadness on his face was unsettling. Was this what he was hiding from everyone the year he left to grieve his father’s death and train? Was he allowing her to seem him this way now because… because why? 

She reached up to cup his cheek in her hand and said the only thing she could think of, “I’m sorry, Natsu. I will be better at this from now on, OK?”

His whole body relaxed. He smiled gently as he leaned his forehead down to rest against hers. “Good. I was getting worried that my girlfriend was gonna run away from me for a minute there.”

Lucy couldn’t stop herself from laughing. “We’re partners, right?”

“Aye!” Happy called out. 

Natsu merely closed his eyes, content. “Aye,” he whispered.

[cass-chan12]

The Best Friend’s Baby (Chapter 6)

Fandom: Fairy Tail

Rated: T Genre: Romance/Drama Pairing: Nalu

Summary: Their Story was a strange one. They were the best of friends but led different lives. She was tired of waiting to start a family and he didn't mention something important to her. As a result they will come together in the most wonderful way. The question is- Are they up for it?

Chapters: One, Two, Three, Four, Five

“So how are the twins doing Lev?”

It had been a month since Lucy found out she was pregnant and since then there had been so many things happening all at once. From seeing the positive on the test to telling Natsu and having such weird changes in her body occurring. Her body felt tender and tired all the time, the food aversions and the constant running back and forth to the bathroom either to pee or from the nausea. Quite a number of times, Natsu would come over and spend time with her when she was feeling down telling her it’ll get better soon.

But today Lucy decided it was time to ‘catch up’ with her girlfriends. In reality she would try not really catching up with them on her personal life… well not yet at least.

With the girls sitting in Lucy’s kitchen table Levy looked to Mira who had asked the question and smiled “They are slowly killing us Mira… But they haven’t won the war.” She proclaimed keeping the eerie smile on her face.

Mira stared awkwardly and quickly turned to Erza “Anyway, how have you and Jellal been doing Erza? Has the long distance affected you guys yet?”

Erza being the beautiful yet uptight woman in the room peeked at Mira through her red bangs and genuinely smiled at Mira’s question.

“It’s become a lot easier; I’ve worked out a sleeping schedule for him so we can video chat.”

“Do you take turns waking up and video chatting?” Lucy asked.

Erza looked offended at the question “With a job as demanding as mine there would be no way. Chief of the Fire station is no easy task Lucy.”

Lucy started to sweat at Erza going into scary mode and tried to reassure the red head how she was aware how taxing her job was “I can believe it’s not easy since you have Natsu and Gray causing a lot of trouble at the station.”

“Juvia thinks that Gray-sama is very professional at work Lucy-san.”

Lucy mentally groaned, she really can’t say anything right today…

“I'm sure he is but you know boys Juvs.” Lucy reassured.

Juvia did shrug in response and perked up at a question Levy presented “So Juvs, yours and Gray’s first wedding anniversary is coming up in a few days, right?”

Juvia glowed in happiness in a millisecond “Yes it is and Juvia has the perfect present for Gray-sama.”

Mira smiled giddily “What did you get him?”

Juvia blushed “Well…”

“Well…?” Erza echoed in anticipation.

“It’s not really the case of what Juvia got Gray-sama… it’s what Juvia got from Gray-sama”

The girls all looked at the blue haired girl in confusion until the noticed she was rubbing her belly.

Lucy felt like her breath got caught in her throat. Then she was engulfed by a smile.

“YOU’RE PREGNANT???” Levy practically yelled.

The four girls moved in on Juvia wide-eyed and grinning.

“Congratulations!” they all shouted in union.

Juvia’s usual porcelain complexion turned pick at everyone fawning over her and her eyes averted down in embarrassment.

“So how far are you?” Levy asked

“Juvia is not certain but maybe two and a half months. Juvia only took the test yesterday.”

It would be common for most women to find out their pregnant when they’re in the middle of the first trimester as normally it came upon them as a happy surprise but Lucy can’t relate. After all she did plan it and on top of things… it wasn’t the natural way to get pregnant. Obviously Lucy had been constantly taking pregnancy tests once she was inseminated, especially with the accountability that her egg would possible reject her donor’s sperm, the odds where really against her so the second she found out she was in fact pregnant her whole world changed.

She slightly envied at the notion that Juvia could share her pregnancy news with the girls and she had to wait. But Lucy knew that this was her moment to enjoy the adoration from the girls and shook the feeling off and hugged the blue haired woman.

“Thank you everyone, Juvia is really scared of telling Gray-sama now.” Juvia admitted.

Erza patted her shoulder reassuringly “I think he’ll be taken off guard but he will definitely be happy.”

Juvia smiled brilliantly, she honestly suited being pregnant in Lucy’s opinion.

“So are you hoping for a girl or boy, Juvs?” Mira asked.

Juvia didn’t hesitate “It’s a boy, Juvia knows for sure.”

Lucy smirked; she frankly knew the reason behind Juvia’s words. Put simply she knew Juvia would want a boy because she wanted a mini Gray running around.

“It’s just too bad there’ll be a bit of an age gap between Levy-san and Gajeel-kuns twins and Juvia and Gray-sama’s little boy.”

Levy waved her hand at the other blue headed girl “Oh please. It’ll be a 2 year gap; my kids don’t care whether Natsu is playing with them or the neighbour’s dog.”

As the girls laughed and Mira released a huge sneeze almost knocking herself off her chair.

“I'm sorry girls my allergies are acting up again. Lucy do you have any allergy medication.”

“Oh sure Mira, it’s in the medicine cabinet in my bathroom. Help yourself.”

Mira excused herself from the table while the girls continued to talk and eat the cake Erza brought. The few minutes that passed seemed like milliseconds till Mira walked back holding… a pregnancy test box.

Lucy looked to her friend and her heart almost imploded.

The girls noticed as well the room fell silent.

“Lucy, why do you have two of these in your cabinet?” Mira asked.

The girl’s necks snapped to the blonde waiting for a response.

“I- Uh…” Lucy stuttered.

“Is Lucy-san also pregnant?” Juvia asked.

Lucy breathed in deeply and nodded slightly.

She couldn’t lie to them, sure she could’ve kept the secret for a bit longer but to look her close friends in the eyes and lie to their faces was not what she was going to do. Lucy shut her eyes waiting for someone to speak after the long silence.

The weight of her friends’ hugs took her by surprise and being startled by them for a moment she hugged them back after a few seconds.

“Lu-chan why didn’t you say anything?” Levy asked

They all pulled away and had very cheerful smiles on, as expected from her supportive friends. So why did she panic of what they would think a moment ago?

Lucy teared up a little.

‘Stupid hormones’ she thought to herself

“I’m really sorry guys. I was going to tell you but I'm still early on and Juvia just shared her news… I couldn’t have possibly said anything any time soon.”

“Oh Lucy-san Juvia doesn’t care about attention.” Juvia giggled “And besides Gray-sama and Juvia’s baby has a new friend!” She continued smiling ear to ear.

Lucy smiled and nodded with a tear rolling down her face.

“So is Sting the dad then?” Mira asked.

‘Oh… yeah right, I guess I have to tell them.’ She grimaced internally

Lucy coughed awkwardly and rubbed the back of her head “Um yeah about that… So after Sting and I broke up I made an impulsive BUT practical decision.”

“You got back together for an hour and ensured a pregnancy?” Erza asked seriously.

Horror washed over Lucy’s face and she immediately shot the theory down “Not a chance! No no no!”

“So you found a random guy then?” Levy asked shocked.

“NO! Guys I was inseminated!” Lucy yelled out flustered

Mira let out an ‘Oh my Mavis’ and the others stared at the blonde as if she confessed a murder. Erza though seemed to be thoroughly impressed by her approving look.

“Efficient choice. What brought it on?” Erza asked

Ignoring the other girls gaping appearances she explained her choice over to them.

“Yes well it was because after Sting and I’s break up I reflected what our relationship was like overall and it made me realise that we wouldn’t have been happy together. I honestly just wanted a baby and blocked out my true feelings for him. I just don’t feel I could’ve waited any longer to be a mom!” Lucy clarified.

The others bewildered looks mellowed into more serene ones after hearing Lucy’s heartfelt reasoning.

“Sorry Lucy we didn’t know you felt that way” Mira consoled

“We only want the best for Lucy-san” Juvia added.

Lucy sighed a bit in relief and smiled to her friends, happy that they are going to support her.

“So that means they’ll be two babies on the way how exciting!” Levy cheered

“Quite indeed. Makes me only wish Jellal was here so we could have our own.” Erza pondered.

Lucy laughed at how casual Erza just said it would be if she had the choice of being pregnant. Of course Erza was resourceful enough to convince her long distance boyfriend to get her pregnant just plainly because she feels like it… Well at least she had a boyfriend.

Although Lucy had chosen to have no man in her life at the time being, a little nagging voice crouched at the back of her mind telling her she was in fact feeling neglected in the relationship category. Yes she did choose this path but that didn’t mean she didn’t want to be with someone she loved. But now it seems that she sentenced herself to a life without a husband or even a boyfriend.

“Speaking of boyfriends, you’ll be without one for a long time ey Lu-chan?” Levy seemed to have spoken what Lucy had thought.

“Y-yeah. I guess so.”

“As much as I still wanted Natsu and Lisanna to stay together, you and our pyromaniac fireman is still my otp.” Mira confessed,

Lucy couldn’t help but blush and instantly kill any connotations behind Mira’s words. Although she had always seen Natsu as a friend, she momentarily thought of him as more and that made her blush hard. She knew though that they were just friends and that she had always treated him as such.

“Come on Mira, Natsu and I have been friends since forever. And this whole pregnancy thing has made him so attentive that he’s committed himself to being an uncle.”

“Natsu-san knows Lucy-san is pregnant?” Juvia asked surprised.

Another thing Lucy forgot to mention. Oops.

“Oh… yeah he was the first I told.”

‘Poor guy’ Mira thought.

Changing the subject Levy raised her hands in the air and grinned widely “Now you two girls will know what Gajeel and I go through! Best wishes to the mom’s to be!”

“Best Wishes Girls, I'm sure you both can manage. You both are tough as nails after all” Erza said fondly.

“Thank you!” Juvia and Lucy said together

During the rest of the girls get together Lucy couldn’t help but to drift away from the others conversation and started thinking to herself sombrely.

‘Is being tough going to enough though?’

[shelbyshoe]

Chains Pt 2

Rated: M

Synopsis: Lucy is rewarded a virtual reality headset by a client. It is all fun and games when she creates new places with one of her best friends. It isn’t until Natsu turns up, with sexy intentions, that she finds herself way over her head.

Words: 5088

Read here or FF.net.

Based off Hiro Mashima’s twitter art. Here and here.

part 1 x part 3

Lucy’s eyes blinked up at the ceiling of her bedroom. The sun cascaded throughout the room.

"Lucy, wake up!" Levy’s face hovered over her. Her eyes wide and hair tumbled over her shoulders. The VR headset clutched in her hands.

"Levy? How did you get in?" Lucy asked.

"You left the door unlocked. I was worried." She sat up too quickly and felt the room spin. "How long were you using this thing?" Levy asked.

"It didn't feel like long," Lucy said. The box remained on her table. The mouth of cardboard opened wide.

"You probably shouldn't use this in bed," Levy said. Lucy had to agree with her. She thought of the memory she had created. Her face warmed at the thought of her kiss. She would have told Levy about the experience that felt like a dream, but she didn't know how to explain it. She wasn't even sure she wanted to. "I was going to the guild and thought I'd check on you. I'm glad I did," Levy said, “Did you want to join me?” Best if she got out of the apartment, Lucy agreed to go. It was a beautiful day— the sun dashed in and out of the clouds, and voices rang out all over the town. The fishing boats were coming into the docks after months far from shore. The bounty was plenty, and spirits were high. She wanted to enjoy it all. There was always something to do around this time of year— plenty of jobs for Fairy Tail. Lucy thought about taking a job when they arrived at the guild. She wondered if Natsu would be there. The thought of his presence made her excited and nervous. She knew the Natsu in her headset wasn't real; however, the experience had felt so vivid. She touched her bottom lip with her index finger.

"Are you listening to me?" Levy asked. She dropped her hand when she noticed Levy staring.

"Of course," she said, a pang of guilt from her lie.

"So, what did you do all night in that headset?" Lucy was quiet for a moment recalling it all. She decided to tell Levy everything except for the tree, the memory, and Natsu. "You know, after our testing, I was wondering why water was so finnicky," Levy said, "I'll have to ask that old man."

"Do you think we could head over there sometime?" Lucy asked. She was curious with the headset. Now that she had been using it, she wanted to know more.

"Sure! I'm excited that we get to test this out together, Lucy!" Her best friend was so excited that it almost broke her heart. Yesterday, she would have been jumping up and down alongside her. Lucy cursed her mind for ever coming up with the memory.

The guild was subdued when they entered. Natsu, to Lucy's relief, was not there. They both hadn't been on jobs for quite some time, so she suspected he was doing one solo. Lucy smiled when Levy, on auto pilot, bounded to Gajeel's table. Gajeel's gaze only flashed to Lucy for a second. Most of his attention was fixed to Levy as she gushed about the headset. She was sure he heard none of it, but he nodded at the right moments. His eyes fixated on her friend's mouth.

"Who gave you the headset, Lucy?" Lily asked.

"It was a job reward from one of Levy's colleagues."

"That's a very strange reward. No offense, Lucy," Lily said, "but isn't money important to you?"

"What colleague?" Gajeel asked. His face fell, he sat up straight, and glared in Levy’s direction.

"Yeah, Levy, what colleague?" Lucy said. She grinned and leaned her chin in her palm.

"Don't look at me like that!" Levy said to Gajeel. She returned his glare crossing her arms over her chest. "It's none of your business." Lucy knew this would happen. It gave her immense joy to see the two dancing around their jealousy.

"How long have you been talking to him?" he asked.

"Why do you assume they're male?!"

"I've met no other woman as smart as you, Shrimp." He winced once he said it. Lucy knew it was time to get up. Levy would lose it over the nickname she detested. It didn't help that he just called a great deal of women she knew, except Levy herself, stupid.

"Need anything at the bar, Lily?" Lucy asked. He nodded and followed her eagerly. Lucy leaned against the counter where she found the pale haired barmaid waiting.

"Are they fighting again?" Mira asked already filling glasses for Lucy and Lily.

"Like cats and dogs. Say, do you know if Natsu took a job today?" she asked. Mira laughed.

"Speaking of cats and dogs, let me check." Mira pulled out a large ledger from behind the counter. It was filled with job posters and names. "Ah, looks like the love of your life hasn't taken a job for today," she said flipping through the recent requests.

"What do you mean by—"

"If you'd like I can find a listing for two mages," Mira said. Lucy’s mouth opened and closed like a fish.

"I do not love—"

"Looking for a Job, Lucy?" Erza's boisterous voice intervened. She tossed her red locks aside and sat next to her. Mira, on cue, had her drink poured.

"No, I don't think I'll take one today."

"Are you sure you don't need the money?" Erza asked. She took a long drink from the glass left in front of her.

"Do I really talk about money that much? I had a long job recently," Lucy said.

"Oh, with Natsu, right? How did you keep him from destroying another town?" Lucy knew Erza meant well by the comment, but she really didn't feel like discussing Natsu after what Mira said. She shrugged in reply. Instead, she sat quietly and finished her drink. For some time, she listened to Erza and Mira talk guild business. She knew it was difficult to run a guild. There were so many financial aspects of it. Lucy watched the two women in awe. They inspired her and had taught her a lot over the years.

Lucy excused herself when her glass was empty. Mira offered Lucy another job for two, she waved her away and nearly ran into Gray on her way to Levy's table.

"Where's the fire?" Gray said.

"How would I know? I can't help it if I spend a lot of time with someone who eats it," Lucy said. She glanced over Gray's broad shoulder toward Levy's table. The two were still fighting about Gajeel's earlier comment. Lucy sighed, and glowered at the door. She really should have stayed home.

"What are you talking about?" Gray asked, "I meant where are you going so fast?" Lucy rubbed her temples.

"Sorry, Gray. I'm just in a weird mood today."

"Need to talk about it?" he asked. She was glad that Gray was such an attentive friend, but she wasn't sure how much she could really say.

"I'd rather not," she admitted.

"Look, if you need a break from Natsu I can take a job with you." Lucy began to reply until she saw a tanned hand grab Gray's shoulder.

"What was that?" Natsu asked from behind him. Lucy's heart, without her consent, beat in her throat. Instead of the softened expression he wore in VR, he scowled at Gray.  

"There you are," Gray said brushing the hand away, "I was just saying she looks beat. Since you are always the one to blame, I thought I'd help her out."

"That's not true! Right, Lucy?" he said. He finally glanced her way, and she felt the heat grow in her cheeks at the sound of her name from his lips. “She has a ton of problems that don’t involve me.” She had almost forgotten how unsmooth real Natsu was.

"I have to go," Lucy said. She darted around them toward the exit. She heard them argue behind her as the doors closed.

"See what you did!" Natsu said. She nearly hit Wendy with one of the guild doors on her way out.

"Hey, Wendy. When Levy stops arguing with Gajeel, do you think you could tell her I'll meet up with her, so we can go to the old man's place tomorrow?" she asked. Wendy looked confused but agreed anyway. Lucy had to go somewhere to clear her head. She didn't know what was wrong with her. Her situation was almost devastating. The Natsu in the virtual world wasn't real and the real one didn't even look at all interested in her. She should have taken a solo job. Mira's comment echoed in her ears. Her fingertips stroked her bottom lip again. She would have to return another time for a job. She couldn't trust herself around anyone. Her feet guided her, where her head could not, to her apartment. She looked up at the window to her room. Could she use the headset again? Did she trust herself enough? "I'm being ridiculous," she said.

Her room appeared untouched. The headset lay abandoned on her unmade bed. The black box stared at her in challenge. She picked up the headset and placed it back in its box. Instead, Lucy took the opportunity to do mundane tasks around her apartment. She had been putting off cleaning for too long. It wasn’t until she cleaned up from dinner, and the sun painted the sky in orange as it set, that she glanced in the box’s direction at all. When she thought about the headset, her stomach fluttered. Lucy didn’t want to waste the reward, but she didn’t know how she felt about returning into the virtual world. Using it for memories was truly a bad idea. She should have listened to Levy. She couldn’t run forever, and her curiosity was far from sated.

Her gaze hovered over the cardboard before she took the headset out. She lay in bed and strapped it to her face. There was a familiar click of the lacrima. Her eyes adjusted to the brilliant white light inside the room. It was as empty as she remembered it. She would enjoy her gift and forget about the night before. Lucy imagined the perfect getaway. It was the vacation home she would never build outside of VR. She made a pool but left it empty. The bright colors of water would break up into squares and dash across her vision whenever she attempted to conjure it. She would need to report such a glitch to Levy. She looked down at the empty pool and wondered why the water in her memory projection had been so perfect. Even Natsu, she had to admit, was exactly like the real one— apart from the way he acted. When she was finished she sat in the large living space. In front of her was a roaring fire. The ceilings were higher than the ones at her father's mansion. She lay upon the softest couch she had ever felt. Her feet warmed, and her thoughts wandered. Natsu had kissed her in a desperate sort of way that surprised her. She wondered why her mind made that happen. Did she want him to kiss her like that? If this was all just her own mind’s projection, why did she want a kiss at all? Lucy had to admit the feeling wonderful. She shivered with thoughts of his hands roaming her skin. She was ready to dip her own hands beneath what little he had worn. The thought made her heart race. She stood from where she sat.

The room around her broke apart and disappeared. Lucy glanced around the blank space. She wasn’t sure what she wanted to do there, or how long she had been in VR daydreaming. She almost thought about leaving and getting some sleep, but an image slowly appeared. She couldn’t tell it was a person until the striking pink hair glimmered into sight.

“We meet again,” Natsu said. She could practically hear her heart in her ears. He ran a hand through his disheveled hair. The gesture did little to tame his wild appearance. Dressed the way he had before, his black tank hung loosely over his tanned skin. As if he thought the same of her, his eyes roamed. She too had worn what she had last time. Her mind wandered to what he’d look like with it all off.

“Well, I’m just leaving.” She watched the corner of his lips turn up into a grin.

“So soon?” His eyes glinted with mischief. She wasn’t sure what she should do. A part of her was ready to flee. The other part of her wanted nothing more than to run her own fingers through his wild pink hair. He stepped forward and took her hand. The feeling of his heated skin sent a chill through her. It was too real. His other tipped her chin up so that she looked directly at him. His irises darkened and traveled along her face to her lips. She relaxed her mouth when he leaned in. His mouth was just as hot as she remembered. She surprised herself at his touch. Her body was pliant in his hands. He easily moved her back until she felt a cool, solid wall behind her. She pulled her lips away just long enough to catch his dark gaze. His smile was broad. “What was that about leaving?” Lucy could feel the flush spreading to her ears. She glared at him for making her feel this way.

“Not much you can do to stop me,” she said.

“The kiss wasn’t enough?” he asked, “What about this?” Natsu held up his hand— a cool metal chain clutched in his palm. She felt a weight around her neck and moved her fingertips across the cool metal materialized there. Her glare deepened.

“You’re going to chain me here?” She raised an eyebrow and dropped her hand. She couldn’t help the intrigue she felt at the idea. Natsu tugged at the chain lightly pulling her toward him. He leaned in and pressed his forearm against the wall behind her. Their foreheads nearly touched at the closeness. Lucy hadn’t noticed how tall he had become over the years. He had to lean down slightly. The angle he leaned into gave her the perfect view of his chiseled muscles. He lifted his other arm to the other side of her head. Arousal welled up inside her. The sights, his scent, sparked a place inside her that she had pushed aside for too long. Her eyes were hooded as he leaned into her. This was a fantasy, a paradise she had conjured in her own head. She was able to stop this whenever she wanted. Yet, here she was, giving in. He took her mouth with a gentleness she had not expected. Natsu’s kisses traveled from her mouth to her waiting neck. She leaned her head to the side in invitation. Her hands dipped under the hem of his shirt. A soft sound tumbled from her lips as he moved to her collar bone. Soon, the thin material of his tank felt intrusive. Her hands balled up the fabric to pull him free. As though the white room answered, the top disappeared in her grasp. The corners of his lips quirked against her skin. She was acutely aware how close his mouth was to her breasts. He followed her lead and tugged her own tank until it disappeared.

“Nice trick,” Natsu said. Their eyes met for a fleeting second, begging for her approval, before he dipped his head down to her waiting breasts. He kissed his way to her pert nipples. She sighed when his lips wrapped around one of them. His free hand cupped the other and kneaded her soft skin. The sensation was overwhelming. She couldn’t take her eyes off him. It was surreal. She groaned when he flicked his tongue out over the sensitive buds. As if pressing a button, Lucy let out a moan. Her head lulled back when he kissed beneath her breast. His thumb and forefinger lightly pinched her nipple. Lucy’s hand journeyed to his tousled hair, her fingers threading through the pink locks. She felt a low groan against her breast. She hadn’t expecting his reactions. She enjoyed the power she felt over them. Natsu moved to her other breast and nudged her legs apart with his knee. His hips nestled perfectly between them. She could feel the liquid heat pool between her thighs when he grinded his erection against her. Thin fabric was all that sat between them. “Put your legs around me,” he said against her skin. Lucy obliged, and wrapped her legs and arms around him. She tilted her head back to see the wall behind her was gone. He lowered her until her back pressed against a soft patch of lush grass. The fresh smell of flowers, and a warm breeze wrapped around her. She could feel the rays of bright sun. As if a large tree draped over them, small shadows and slants of light dashed across the grass. It reminded her of many summer days. It reminded her of missions into the countryside where they would camp out under the sky. It reminded her of the afternoons spent with Natsu’s hand in hers just outside the Grand Magic Games. The flowers were in bloom, the sun just as hot. She let a moan slip from her lips when his hand slid across her belly to the waiting heat between her thighs. Natsu’s fingers ran across her lips through the cloth. Lucy’s hips rolled against his fingertips. The softest touch was torture. She pressed her palms against his hips urging him to move forward. “Impatient,” he said. She didn’t know whether he meant to say it aloud. He paused his ministrations and pulled her arms above her head. This time, she didn’t protest. She felt the cool steel against her skin. She tested the weight of them, and found her hands chained down to the ground beneath her. It would have never happened had they truly been outside, but this was virtual reality. Lucy couldn’t help the grin she shared with him. As if they existed in a little bubble all to themselves, sunshine seemed to halo his hair making it seem a lighter shade of pink. It was a sweet image of his gentle amused expression, his flushed cheeks, and soft pink hair. In that moment she felt like she could live there in her bubble of sunshine forever.

“What is it?” Natsu asked. Lucy only shook her head in reply and rolled her hips against him. His eyes closed, reminded of the position he was in. Now that her hands were preoccupied, his hands were free to roam her skin. He sat back to look down at her. The chains clanked together when she wiggled beneath his gaze. His calloused hand splayed against her stomach. His fingers skimmed lightly over her, dipped low to her sides. Her back arched at the sensation. His fingertips descended slowly to her waiting heat. Lucy watched his hand dip beneath the cotton fabric at her hip and pull the undergarment down her legs. She had expected him to make it disappear, but the slow reveal lit up his eyes in excitement. One of his palms held her thigh— opening her up to him. He groaned at the view of her weeping sex. His other fingers slid across her curls before descending one into her. She whimpered with the feeling of him pushing inside her. He pulled his hand back. He bit his lip examining its slickness. Lucy wiggled beneath him again. She could see her flush spreading over her chest. The feeling was somewhere between embarrassment and complete arousal. “You’re so wet,” he said as if it were just an everyday fact, but his eyes met hers in a darkened intensity she had never seen from him before. She couldn’t stop the whimper when he slid back inside her. Her walls tightened around his finger as he moved. The chains around her wrists clinked above her. She lifted her hips up to his hand. His eyes widened at her reaction. He pushed another inside her. “Tight,” he groaned. He seemed uncomfortable until he freed his erection from his boxers. His hand lightly stroking its length. The tip already slick with precum. His attention still rested on his working hand and her flushed face. Natsu curled his fingers in a come-hither motion— watched her reaction. As he filled her, Lucy moaned his name. Her hips came up every time he sank deeper. She groaned with the feeling of his fingers spreading apart inside. He cursed softly when he slid three fingers into her. She could tell he wanted to be inside her.

“Please,” Lucy moaned. Natsu groaned at the sound of her voice. Her hips rocked up against his hand. His thumb nestled against her clit. “Inside,” she pleaded. He shook his head watching her come undone on his hand.

“Just let go, Lucy,” he said. Her fingers dug into the soft grass above her head. She nearly screamed riding out her orgasm. He sucked in a breath when her walls gripped his fingers so desperately. “Ah gods.” He growled at his own release spilling over her thigh. Natsu slipped his damp fingers from her. He leaned his forehead against her stomach to catch his breath. Lucy’s chest rose and fell rapidly catching her own. Her eyes were hooded. She didn’t know what to say. She didn’t trust herself to say anything.

“That was— I,” Natsu said. He let out a breath. “Your scent is driving me crazy.” He kissed just above her navel. She groaned at the contact to her sensitive skin. He stilled. His lips hovering over her felt like static buzzing over every nerve. Her sounds lit up his eyes again. He seemed in thought, as if waring with himself. Shaking his head, the clothes he started with appeared on his body. The action reminding her that it all wasn’t real. Her brow furrowed.

“Why stop?” she asked. His hand reached up to touch the chains at her wrist setting her free.

“For now,” he said like a promise. She closed her eyes when he pressed his lips against hers.

Lucy opened her eyes to darkness. The pressure against her lips was gone. She pulled the headset from her eyes— vision adjusted to the room. A breeze came in through the open window tossing the morning sun against her damp skin. Where she once felt sated, she now felt a building need. She let her fingers slip into the slick heat of her core. She closed her eyes pulling herself to release. For the first time she admitted, she wished the VR was real. I’m losing my mind. She lay in her bed staring up at the ceiling. She breathed heavily from the rush of touching herself. Confusion replaced her exhilaration. Why had Natsu stopped? Her whole body screamed for him to continue, begged for his entrance, but the Natsu she created had stopped. “For now,” he had said. Did something inside her not want to go all the way? Lucy got out of bed and dressed. She had to go to Levy’s, and visit the old man before she went back to the guild. She allowed her VR fantasy to replay in her head. She had to get out of town for a while and leave the headset behind. She didn’t even know what she would do when she saw Natsu again. Not look him in the eye that’s for sure. She groaned in frustration and headed out to meet Levy.

Thankfully, Levy hadn’t left Fairy Hills yet. Coaxing her out of her lady lair, of books and tea, had been much harder than Lucy thought. It appeared she hadn’t had any sleep the previous night. The excitement of speaking to the successful inventor had perked her friend up just enough to pull her from the room into the waiting sunlight.

“Are you sure you want to meet with Perceval today, Lu?” she asked.

“It won’t take too long. What have you been working on all night?” Levy didn’t answer right away. Lucy found it suspicious, but since she had partaken in her own illicit activities, she decided not to press her for more.

“You know, research.”

Perseval’s tiny house was no different from before. She did notice a group of strange potted plants stuffed into the windows, as if they begged for the sun. When she knocked on the door she swore one of them squeaked and slunk back into the soil in its pot.

“Miss Heartfilia?” Perseval said peaking around the crack in the door. His eyes looked large behind his spectacles. “Who is your friend?”

“Levy Mcgarden,” Levy said offering her hand. The door burst open at the name. He shook her hand with visible excitement.

“Please, come in.” The house had improved on organization, if Lucy said so herself. He had led them into his office and offered them tea. While he prepared tea, Lucy took the chance to tell Levy about the water glitch. Her friend’s face grew pensive. When Perseval returned with a plate of tea and cookies, she came right out with questions.

“The water you say?” he said, “Maybe, it is too organic of material to be conjured from mind alone.”

“What about grass and trees?” Lucy asked.

“They are just as organic, and we’ve come up with plenty of them,” Levy agreed.

“So, you’ve tried the headset for yourself Miss Mcgarden?” he asked. He sipped his tea and listened to the girl’s experiences. Lucy wanted desperately to tell them about the water she had created on the night she conjured Natsu, but she feared the questions. Thankfully, Levy had plenty of questions, and more gearing toward the science of invention. When Lucy could not follow the conversation, she stood up and walked around his office. He had a massive oak desk and most of the boxes had been put away. She noticed many cabinets had been filled to the brim with strange inventions and antiquities. She poured over his bookcase and pulled some titles that intrigued her. Most of the contents were inventing, science, and botany. But, shoved into a corner was a small romance paperback titled, Mistress of Desire. She lifted a brow, a smile on her face, and put the books back. Behind his desk was shelves full of interesting artifacts. She squinted at the ancient writing scrolled over gold and pottery with suggestive imagery. Her eyes widened when she noticed a large black spotted egg on a stand. She thought it might have been an exceed egg, but it would have hatched by now.

“Perseval, sir?” Lucy said softly. The two in chairs looked up at her. Levy specifically appeared surprised, as if she had missed Lucy stand from her chair. “What kind of egg is this?”

“Ah, I believed it to be a dragon egg,” he said proudly. Lucy stood on her toes and peered around the sides of the egg. It was the first time she realized there were scorch marks across the back.

“How did it get burned?”

“After you kindly helped me move in, I unpacked it and realized you had a fire dragon slayer in your guild,” he said. Lucy’s heart sank down to her toes. Her face visibly paled when she turned back to the man.

“Did he come by?” she asked.

“Yes, he seemed just as intrigued as you are. But, alas I believe it to be a fake. He was a kind boy, Mister Dragneel,” the old man said, his smile wavering slightly, “Don’t know if I’d request him for another job. Nearly burned my new house down. I could clean all the scorch marks, except the ones at the back of the egg.” The man chuckled softly and grinned at his collection. “I just left the scorch marks at the back. Can’t even tell.” Lucy’s eyes met Levy’s. Her friend had her brows raised and a suspicious look in her eye. “I couldn’t really give him a money reward you see, so I just gave him one of my unfinished prototype headsets. He was satisfied enough with it. Maybe, you can ask him if he got it working Miss Mcgarden?”

“I’ll be sure to ask him. Right, Miss Heartfilia?” Levy said.

Lucy knew two things then, her and Levy needed to talk, and Natsu may have a working headset.

 Finally got to work on this! So excited to have this chapter completed for you guys. I have one part left for this story! Wanted to answer some questions here. I plan on adding a section in next chapter explaining more about how the headset works. It is a prototype of an idea. The headset is only meant to be an experience and a builder. No gaming or interaction was supposed to be involved when Levy and Perseval worked on the project. If I added gaming to this, it would have to be a much longer story. I am still working on an original novel and my focus is there. I don't get paid for fan fiction, so I have to cut my time on it. I present what I can. :) Thanks for the support!

Out of curiosity, how many of you have actually tried a VR headset? I got the opportunity a few times. Played the Resident Evil 7 demo and nearly died. lol Still feels like it’s in its infancy. I did love the traveling VR experiences, which got me thinking about the idea for this story when Mashima came out with that delicious piece with nalu in chains.

[lady-serai]

Strange Magic

Fairy Tail Fanfiction

Pairings: Lucy Heartfilia x Rufus Lore

Ratings: T/M

Note: This fanfiction won’t be following the anime so expect canon divergence. 

Disclaimer: I don’t own Fairy Tail!

Chapter Two: Arrival

All the males just stared at Yukino.

"What?" asked Sting dumbly.

Yukino sighed exasperatedly. "Don't you listen to anything that I say to you, Sting? I said Lucy is coming to Sabertooth to visit me!"

"Why?" Sting asks bewilderedly.

Yukino closed her eyes. "I don't know Sting. Lucy didn't explain why. She just stated that she is coming over for a visit." Yukino held the letter out to her guild master. "Read it for yourself."

Sting took the paper from Yukino's hand and read it in silence.

Rufus sat quietly lost in thought, the book long forgotten in his hand. Why would Lucy Heartfilia come to Sabertooth? He knew Yukino and Lucy were extremely close friends. Not because of their magic but how similarly both young women treated their spirits. Rufus does not have a memory of a Fairy Tail mage coming over to Sabertooth just to visit.

The Fairy Tail mage who was coming over wasn't an ordinary wizard. It was Lucy Heartfilia. The Lucy Heartfilia. Lucy Heartfilia was known as the Light of the Fairies. She was one of the most valued members of the guild and a valued member of Team Natsu. She was such a valued member, Fairy Tail and Sabertooth almost battled after Minerva dropped her bloody, bruised body onto the ground during the Naval Battle; that was how important this woman was. Rufus knew he would be a fool if he didn't feel any guilt for Sabertooth's cruelty during the Grand Magic Games.

Despite his guild's cruelty, Lucy Heartfilia chose to let it be in the past, and she forgave Sabertooth. Such forgiveness in her thought Rufus. I wonder how she can be so forgiving. His thought process was interrupted by Sting when he placed the letter on the table and looked at Yukino…thoughtfully? I need to memorize this. Sting…thoughtful?

"So Blondie wants to visit you at Sabertooth and take you to the Akane Resort," Sting summarized.

Yukino nodded.

"When does she arrive?" asks Rogue. "Does the letter say?"

"This evening."

"Where will Miss Lucy be staying?" asks Rufus.

"I have decided to offer Lucy to stay at my place. I'm going to call Lucy and get the guest room prepared for her," responded Yukino. "I will see you guys later. Have a nice day!"

Yukino got up from the table and left.

Sting groaned knowing one of his most reliable assistants was leaving him alone with the paperwork. Rufus smirked at the memory he found to be quite amusing. Rufus was checking the paperwork Sting had been working on but had caught error after error. When he discovered that Sting misplaced an apology letter with a pornographic photo, the Memory Make mage lost his shit. Furious, Rufus forced his groaning Guild Master to redo the paperwork as well as apologize for grossly misplacing his paperwork.  

Orga laughed. "I know what we will be doing for the rest of the day."

"Preparations, I presume," Rufus answered climbing gracefully to his feet. "Come, Sting. You and I need to go over a few reports before we assist with preparations."

Sting sighed and followed the tall, long-haired male up to his office.

To say that Lucy Heartfilia was happy was the understatement of the year. Why? She didn't have to worry about a certain pyromaniac, a cake-loving fierce redhead, and an ice mage exhibitionist causing utter chaos.

And utter chaotic destruction meant no reward money, so Lucy decided to go on a few missions with Wendy and Shadow Gear because they were the least destructive out of everyone in the guild. After she came back from her last job with Wendy, Natsu had dragged her into another mission along with Erza and Gray. The mission wanted Fairy Tail to catch a group of mages who were causing problems in a small village. Lucy had a perfect plan, but Natsu and Gray thought it would be best to go with Plan T. Take Them By Storm. Exactly what Natsu, Gray, and Erza did….and now Lucy has no reward money to buy groceries.

After chewing out her teammates, Lucy decided to go on a vacation for some time and visit a friend she hasn't seen since the Eclipse Celestial Spirits mess that had entangled the two women. Yukino, her newest friend from Sabertooth and her fellow Celestial Spirit Mage. Lucy thought it would be good to get some girl time with someone who shared her interests and beliefs.

All were reasons why she was sitting on a train with her bag heading to Sabertooth. Alone. I am going to enjoy this vacation time with Yukino, Lucy excitedly thought. Lucy had been thinking about a vacation for some time, but with the last mission, Lucy decided maybe a long, relaxing holiday would end up being quite therapeutic. She decided to send a letter to Yukino a few days ago and figured Yukino would receive the message either yesterday or today.

Hopefully, Lucy would arrive at Sabertooth this evening. Lucy wondered how Sabertooth would react to her visiting them. Lucy smiled.

After mailing the letter, Lucy gave her apartment keys to Levy and Wendy to keep an eye on her apartment. Lucy decided to pay rent for this month and next month. Levy and Wendy promised her they would help keep her place clean and help pay rent if needed. Before leaving, she announced her summer vacation to her team. To say her team was surprised was another understatement. Natsu and Happy whined about not having her cook food for them. Gray whined about not having her around to deal with the pyro. Erza complained about Lucy going without someone to protect her. Lucy had calmly dismissed the complaints and told them she would be coming back. However, she threatened Natsu that if he eats her apartment dry again, she was going to Lucy Kick him into the next year.

Brrrrng. Brrrrng. A ringing sound coming from her bag brought Lucy out of her thoughts. She reached into her bag and pulled out her communication lacrima. She looked at the screen and saw Yukino's smiling face.

"Lucy!" cheered Yukino. "How are you this fine morning?"

"I am doing quite well, Yukino. I assume you got the letter I sent you?"

"Yes. I told Sting and the others about you coming. They seemed pleasantly surprised."

Sting, huh? Not Master Sting? This should be interesting, thought Lucy.

"I will be arriving at six o'clock. Even though I will love to come over to the guild tonight, I probably will be too tired, so I was thinking about getting a room—"

"Nonsense."

Lucy stared at her friend. "What?"

"You will be staying with me," Yukino said smiling brightly. "I didn't get to spend enough quality time with you last time we were together, so this seems like the perfect time." Yukino smiled warmly at Lucy. Lucy opened her mouth to decline. "I won't take no for an answer." Lucy shut her mouth. Looking into her friend's eyes, she saw Yukino's mind was made up. There was no way she was going to convince Yukino otherwise.

"Alright. I will stay with you."

Yukino cheered causing Lucy to laugh.

"I am glad. I will pick you up at the train station."

Lucy smiled. "Alright. I will see you then."

After Yukino and Lucy said their goodbyes, Lucy put her communication lacrima back into her bag. She leaned against the window. A small smile graced her beautiful face. Lucy was excited about this vacation.

Something good is about to come my way. I can feel it.

When Lucy got off the train, she looked around for Yukino.

"Lucy!"

Lucy turned around and was attacked in a bear hug by none other than Sabertooth's Celestial Spirit Mage, Yukino Agria.

"Yukino!" laughed Lucy as she returned the gesture. "It's great to see you again."

Yukino linked her left arm with Lucy's right arm and proceeded walking towards Yukino's apartment. The two girls talked about the missions have been on and the latest news that's been going around Fiore. The girls laughed and talked. Lucy never felt any happier. Finally, someone who understood her magic and understood her. Even though she dearly loved her team, the relationship and bond she developed with Yukino felt even tighter.

The two girls made their way into Yukino's apartment. After helping Lucy settle down, the two girls took a seat on the loveseat. Yukino was dressed in a white tank top and pajama pants. Lucy was dressed in a red babydoll dress.

"I am guessing you want to know why I am here."

Yukino nodded her head. "I'm quite curious, you know."

"I needed a vacation from my destructive team, and I wanted to spend time with my dear friend from Sabertooth."

Yukino smiled. "I am glad you came to visit me. What about the Akane Resort?"

"Aha! I am glad you asked. On the last mission I took with Wendy, as part of the reward, I got four tickets to go to the Akane Resort. I thought it would be fun to invite you to come along."

"You are so sweet! Of course, I would love to come!"

"However, I got four tickets. I need to invite two more people."

Yukino looked thoughtful. "That's right. Who would you bring, Lucy?"

Lucy smiled a smile that made the other Celestial Spirit feel really nervous. Lucy wiggled her eyebrows at Yukino.

"Oh, I was thinking about a certain White Dragon Slayer my dear fellow Celestial mage has affections for."

Yukino flushed redder than Erza's hair.

[gruvia-raid]

The Strength in Fragilty

Chapter 2: Fatigue

AN: Anything in italics is a flashback

TW: Cancer and mentions of death

Disclaimer: I DO NOT own Fairy Tail nor do I own it's characters. They belong to Hiro Mashima & Co. This story uses coarse language.

"Juvia sweetie, I'm coming home today."

"Really! Why? Juvia thought mom wasn't able to come home for another couple of months."

Juvia was ecstatic. She hadn't seen her mother in over a year, since she had moved aboard for work. Well she wasn't her actual birth mother, she was her adoptive one. You see Juvia never knew her birth mom, for she died during childbirth and her father died when she was seven due to an undetectable cancer. She was sent to an orphanage and was treated horribly by the other children there. But one day, a beautiful brunette came and fell in love with her. A few months later, after all the paper work was done, she adopted Juvia and has been with her ever since. She was an infamous fashion designer, thus she travelled a lot, and recently she had left for an upcoming joint fashion line which required her to move away.

"Well hun, I told them of your 'condition', so I was given permission to move back and take care of you. Isn't that great?"

No it really wasn't.

"Aha mom doesn't need to return on account of Juvia's condition. She can take care of herself. Mom mustn't burden herself." A month ago Juvia was diagnosed with lung cancer. But she believed she was a very independent women now, her mother didn't need to come to her rescue like she used too.

"Nonsense Juvi-bee," her mother chuckled over the phone. "You are much more important than a fashion line. I want my baby feeling worry free as she over comes her illness. So it's no burden."

"But mother," Juvia whined she really didn't need help." Juvia is perfectly fine by herself don't worry abou-"

"Juvia" Her mother spoke in a stern voice. Juvia could imagine her face now, eyebrows scrunched worriedly together but with a glare that could kill. If anyone else attempted that look they would seem ridiculous but on her mother it was terrifying. "I am coming home whether you want me too or not. I know that you are strong, you are my child after all. But everyone needs a little help in life. And you missy do not have a man to take care of you so a mother is perfect during times like these. Plus, I'm already at the airport waiting to broad the plane."

Seriously, her mother took any chance she got to point out that Juvia didn't have a 'man' in her life. She had a man but he was too much of an ass to stay with her. Juvia was independent anyway, she didn't need a man, hasn't her mother ever heard the song "I don't need a man" by the Pussycat dolls? Yet, mama shouldn't be talking 'cause she didn't have a man either. Though she claims that she "couldn't have a stable relationship in her line of work" yeah, nice excuse mom.

Juvia sighed, nonetheless she did miss her. "Fine what time should Juvia pick mom up?"

Her mother chuckled. "at 8 sweetie. And you should really try to not speak in third person that's probably why you don't have a man."

"Bye mom." She deadpanned.

"Bye darling love you." She smooched.

"Love you too." The call ended

Two hours later, Juvia received a phone call informing her that her mother's plane had crashed, and that they were still searching for survivors. Unfortunately, her mother was not one.

As Juvia was awakening from her deep slumber, she immediately felt another presence within the room. She cracked one eye open to reveal her oldest friend Gajeel Redfox sitting around the small coffee table.

"Gajeel-kun?" she mumbled in a hoarse voice.

"Oi Rainwoman, You finally awake?" He asked, even though he could clearly see she was.

Gajeel was the only person willing to talk to Juvia on his own accord during elementary school. All of the other children thought she was weird, ugly and depressing. They all used to make fun of her saying that if she "were a smurf she'd be named gloomy" or that she "looked like those people in avatar, ugly and unhuman" these were all references to her blue...well, her blue everything. But one day Gajeel came along and threatened all the kids, both boy and girl, that if anyone ever talked shit about her again, he'd punch them square in the face. Thus, they became friends.

Well, not exactly, after that she would always follow him like a little lost puppy. He always complained, but never abandoned her. And eventually, he finally became accustom to her presence.

She nodded before asking "What is Gajeel-kun doing here?"

"Fuck that! What the fuck Juvia, didn't Dr. Stripper say to take it easy?"

"Gajeel-kun there is no need to swear. Juvia was just a little tired is all. Nothing too serious."

"I don't give a fuck that you were 'a little tired'" he attempted to mock her. "You're not invincible woman. You're sick, so calm the fuck down with all this shit you keep doing."

"But Gajeel-kun." She whined. Seriously, what was wrong with everyone? Just because her lungs were weak didn't mean she was...well sort of. It was annoying that everyone else saw her as a fragile flower, when she felt like superman, well most of the time anyway, everyone was just over exaggerating.

"WOMEN, YOU NEED TO TAKE A FUCKING BREAK! YOU CAN'T KEEP PUSHING YOURSELF TO THE FUCKING LIMIT LIKE THIS!"

Just then, Levy McGarden Gajeel's fiancée walked in with two steaming cups of coffee and a cup of tea.

"Gajeel, calm down, don't you see she feels bad enough as it is?" Levy reprimanded in a soft tone. Levy was another one of Juvia's close friends, though not as close as Lucy or Gajeel, she was always there when Gajeel would yell over whatever he didn't approve of. Juvia thought she was a good fit for him though, she always seemed to keep Gajeel in check when he was swimming in dangerous territory. They were each other's yin and yang, she was happy for them.

"Thanks Levy-san" Juvia stated as Levy handed her the cup of tea and handed Gajeel the other coffee.

"Ah wait you can't drink that Juvia." Gray spoke as he and head oncologist Erza Scarlet entered the hospital room.

"Why is that Dr. Fullbuster?" Juvia inquired with a look of puzzlement.

"Well I was about to perform those tests I informed you of earlier. And you can't drink anything other than water within eight hour of the tests." He smiled apologetically.

"Hello Juvia, How are you feeling?" Erza smiled as she strolled past Gray towards the bed, her fiery red hair flowing behind. One look at Erza and your immediate reaction would be "Wow" as she was stunningly beautiful. But once you got to know her, you'd realize she was a bit on the scary side personality wise.

"Better than earlier," she chuckled. "How is Erza-san? Juvia hasn't spoken to her in a while."

"Ah I'm very busy, I can tell you that. Being in charge of this one and Natsu, plus all the paperwork for this department is a lot to handle." Juvia smiled, she knew Natsu for a while since he was Lucy boyfriend and him alone was a lot to handle.

"But I saw Gray walking this way and just wanted to stop by to say hello. Like I said though, I am very busy so I must bid you goodbye." Erza left as Juvia waved to her goodbye. Gajeel and Levy also bid Juvia their goodbyes as Gray was ready to begin his tests.

"Now then, shall we?"

The testing ran over the course of a long excruciating week. Until the fateful day when Juvia could finally return home, she grew weary of just laying in her hospital bed. Gray stood over her, clipboard in hand, was just near done with his paper work, and was ultimately ready to discharge Juvia.

"Well Juvia, we are all finished here and you young lady are being discharged today." Scribbling a few last words on a small piece of paper, he handed to Juvia. "This is the prescription for the new medication I'm subscribing you. And when the latest test results arrive I'll contact you." He finished with his signature smile-smirk-thing.

"Thank you once again Dr. Fullbuster. Juvia appreciates everything you have done for her."

"Aha, well it's my job to take care of you." Gray stood there contemplating for a minute. He really wanted to ask her something, but while he was on the job it would be completely unprofessional. But as he spared her a glance, she stared at him so expectantly as if she was waiting for him to come out and say it. Screw the job, he'd just take it like a man and ask. "Hey...um...Juvia?"

She stared waiting for him to go on. He scratched the back of his head and continued. "Would it..um." Come on Gray, what's gotten into you? He cleared his throat. "Would it be inappropriate to say that I am off work tomorrow afternoon and I'd enjoy it if you were to go out with me?" There he said it, the damage was done.

Juvia couldn't help but notice how his cheeks were dusted a faint pink. One could say she did fancy the young doctor's company. He was sweet, handsome, funny and from what she could assume protective, as he always seemed worried about her. One could say she had an attraction for the man when she first laid eyes on him. Oh who was she kidding? She was completely smitten. She beamed at him.

"Juvia would love too!"

AN: Alrighty guys that's a wrap for chapter 2. The next chapter will be their date so expect so fluff. And like I said in chapter 1, it is 85% done. Let me know if you guys are liking it so far.

[nocturna131]

The Iron King (Part 12) Final Chapter.

Fanfiction.net

Rated M

Summary: The former warrior prince has claimed the throne and rules his kingdom in peace. But the neighboring King Natsu rubs in his face that Gajeel remains unwed poses a frustrating question. What is a King without his Queen? Natsu’s wife Queen Lucy brings a certain blue friend along with her to the duel between Kings. What will happen when he lays eyes on Lucy’s friend Lady McGarden?

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8 Part 9 Part 10 Part 11

Thoughts are expressed in this format.

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“Hey Iron breath you ready yet?” Natsu just striding into Gajeel’s chamber without any regard to knock before entering. A dagger flew right past the side of his head before making contact with the wooden door.  “You missed.” He commented casually before walking over and sitting down against the plush cushion.

Gajeel just snorted slightly before turning back to continue getting ready. “No I was aiming next to your head.” Adjusting the last strap of the ceremonial armor, he then reached over to grasp his crown from the dresser. “Don’t need Lucy coming after me.” Shaking his head slightly before placing the jeweled crown on top of his raven hair, the ruby's shimmering brightly in stark contrast of the dark iron holding them. “You haven’t seen Lily have you?” Turning to look over at the now relaxed Natsu now lounging across the entirety of the couch.

“Nope, haven’t seen Happy either.” Natsu shrugging slightly, his hands behind his head. “Disappeared the moment we got here.”

“Strange…” Taking a couple of steps Gajeel peered out the window, searching for the black blur of his partner. “Must be checking up with the guards.” The groan of the door opening caught both Kings attention, Natsu sitting up from the couch when Lily quickly flew in with Happy flowing close behind. The black exceed seemed nearly out of breath when he landed on the large bed, Gajeel spotted something odd on the fur causing his eyebrow to raise in suspicion. “What is that on your fur?”

“Well you see.. mphf!” Happy began before being quickly cut with a paw covering his mouth.

Lily coughing slightly into his other paw. “We went to check on the cake and the piping bag the pastry chef was holding accidentally bursted open, but not to worry it didn’t keep them from finishing in time.”

“I see..well get ready then.” Gajeel tossing Lily his outfit. “Can’t keep be late to my own wedding.” He could hear Natsu laugh slightly before standing up and walking over him with a grin on his face.

“Still can’t believe it, only just months ago was I teasing you about having no queen.” Slapping Gajeel hard on his back and ignoring the look that was shot his way. “But here you are, about to marry our friend Levy.” Turning on his heel, Natsu started to walk towards the chamber door with his hands behind his head. “Lets go, I got a ceremony to officiate!” He cheerfully stated, knowing it would get a reaction from his friend.  

“HEY! I never said your gonna officiate.” Gajeel yelling after Natsu when pink haired man ran down the castle corridor in response the outburst. While it wouldn’t seem odd for another King to officiate a ceremony between friends, however he wasn’t too sure he could trust him with such an important task so Gajeel quickly took off in the direction Natsu headed.

Both Lily and Happy could only listen to the two kings bickering back and forth from down the hall from within the chamber. “Well...that could’ve ended badly.” Panther Lily brushing off the sugar from his fur. “Remember no one finds out we had to recruit Erza to fix the issue with the cake.” A quick nod from Happy reassured him that he would keep his word. “Good, now let's hurry up before anything else goes wrong.”

Murmuring of the crowd hushed when the musicians were signaled to start playing, the harmonious tune of the instruments flowing through the gardens. Many of the guests dressed in fine clothing as most of them were nobles and royalty from the surrounding kingdoms. While no expense was spared for the big day, everything was kept simple to let the natural beauty of the gardens to shine through. The wedding procession began as Gajeel and Panther Lily standing by the his side, Natsu standing in the middle waiting for the rest of the bridal party to arrive from within the castle.

Lucy, Juvia, Carla and Wendy fawned over Levy by making sure every detail was perfect, she was grateful for their help with the train of the dress and placement of the long veil. Taking a deep breath, she placed her hand on her chest when a flash of panic went through her. “The necklace…” In the excitement earlier of getting ready for the ceremony she forgot to put it on, a small sniffle escaped her which caught Juvia’s attention. “You guys I forgot to put the necklace on…” Juvia pulled out a small handkerchief and dapped at the corner of Levy’s eye.

“Don’t worry about that.” Looking behind Levy she could see Happy approaching them. “We will get it fixed.” Juvia walked around the bride and to the exceeds. “Juvia had a favor to ask, could you fly back to Levy’s chamber and retrieve the necklace for her?”

Happy nodded his head quickly and raised his paw up. “Aye of course I will go get it.” Before anyone could get a word in he took off in the direction of the chamber, the few castle staff members still in the hall swore all they saw was a blue blur flying past them before returning a few moments later in the direction of the gardens. Happy hovered in from of Juvia with a the silver necklace hanging from his paws. “He...re you go.” He said out while very breath and handing it to Juvia before landing on the ground to give his wings a rest.

“Thank you.” Juvia turning around so she could place the necklace around Levy's neck, she smiled when she saw the stress from Levy’s face disappear. “Now your ready, you have your something old.” Gesturing to the necklace before tucking a hair back that fell in Levy’s face. “Something blue.” The action caused the bride to laugh slightly as it was obvious cause the color of her hair, Juvia reached down and straightened the hem of the bridal dress. “Something new and something borrowed.” Undoing the clasp on the silver bracelet she was wearing, Juvia placed it on Levy’s wrist. “There everything in in place now.”  

“Thank you Juvia.” Levy gave the taller women a hug before pulling back. “Alright lets not keep Gajeel waiting.” She said with some excitement in her voice while clutching the flowers tightly.

Juvia nodded and went to take her seat in the front with Erza and the other royals. Following behind her was Wendy and the two exceeds dropping the soft white flower petals onto the ground, leaving a beautiful path for Levy to follow. Lucy took her place behind Levy and picked up the train of the dress to keep it from getting to dirty from the gardens. “Ready Levy?”

“Yes, thank you for being my matron of honor.”

It took Lucy some effort to hold back the tears of joy she was feeling cause it was not only a big moment for Levy, it was for Lucy too. “Of course, your my best friend Levy.” The tune of the music shifted and gave them their queue to start their walk, the warmth of the sun hitting them when they stepped into the gardens. All the guests turned to look at the pair entering, only soft gasps could be heard when they saw the bride’s appearance. The one person that was truly left breathless was the King himself.  

Gajeel could see Levy looking at him from the distance, even with all the people presence her gaze was only focused on him as all his attention was on her. She looked like a fairy floating down to the altar, it was like her appearance reflected the sweet and loving personality he he loved. It took a nudge from Lily to break out of the trance was in to remember to take Levy’s free hand once she reached her spot. Once Lucy took the bouquet from Levy he grasped her other hand to begin the ceremony. “You look beautiful.” Gajeel was unable to contain the smile he was feeling.

“Thank you.” Levy blushing at his statement. “You look very handsome.” Levy couldn’t help but giggle slightly when a twinge of red appeared on his cheeks. The black armor he was wearing was a drastic contrast to the pastel flowers of the garden, his appearance just like when she saw him in the armory always reminded her of a metal dragon. The normal fierceness of his expression was replaced with one full of love only for her.

Natsu opened the book and began the ceremony, every now and then he threw in a jab at Gajeel causing the guests to chuckle at grooms expense. But he highlighted the moment where they first met, the love at first sight was rare but only was intensified during the turbulous events that followed. “Now then may I have the rings.” Lily approached him before depositing the two ruby rings into Natsu's hand. He first handed Levy’s ring to Gajeel so he could slip it onto her finger. “Do you King Gajeel Redfox take Lady Levy McGarden to be your wife and Queen?”

“I Do.” Gajeel said firmly while sliding ring onto the finger.

Natsu turned to Levy and handed her the larger ring. “Do you Lady Levy McGarden take King Gajeel Redfox to be your husband?”

“I Do.” Levy answered back with a big smile on her face as she slipped the ring onto his finger, gripping Gajeel’s hands tightly from the excitement that she was feeling.

Natsu shut the book that he had in his hands. “Alright I now declare you husband and wife.” He took a step back to give the couple some space. “Now kiss.”

Levy slipped her arms around Gajeels neck when he dipped her back slightly when he kissed her. Cheering could be heard from the guests during the kiss, she couldn’t help but smile into the kiss before being pulled back up. To her side she could see Lucy walking up to hand her back the bouquet of flowers. Before she knew it Gajeel scooped her up into his arms and began walking towards the castle, she could feel his breath ghost her ear.

“I have a wedding gift for you, I’m confident that you will love it.”

“Open your eyes.”

The new section of the library came into Levy’s  view, rows of empty shelves just waiting for new books to reside on their shelves laid before her. A little reading nook with a plush sofa was tucked next to the large window, a perfect escape for whatever adventures her books took her. Slowly Levy traced her hand along the smooth wooden shelf, she couldn’t imagine the possible collection that would reside among the new shelves.

“So what do you think?” Gajeel interrupted her train of thought.

Turning slightly Levy could see him shifting his weight slightly on his feet, trying hide the fact he was anxious about her reaction. “It's incredible, all my books and more can fit.” She smiled back at Gajeel, she couldn’t help but giggle seeing the wave of relief visibly wash over him. “Thank you.” Walking back towards him, Levy leaned up on her tiptoes and placed a light kiss on his lips.  

“Now then, we should get to our feast.” Gajeel laughing slightly against her lips before pulling back to led them to the grand hall. “Not only am I starving, Juvia probably waiting for the bouquet toss to begin.” Gajeel could see the amused expression on Levy’s face. “I’m sure Lord Fullbuster is intending to propose to her, but she would love to be the one to catch the bouquet tonight.

“Well we shall see what will happen my King.” Levy running her thumb over the wedding band on his finger.

Gajeel squeezed her hand in response to the sweet gesture. “Of course my Queen.”

Light bouncing off the shimmering crown, resting delicately on top of her wavy blue locks. The silver metal was forged to look like a crown of flowers, sapphires decorating the center of each one. Members of the court could only look on in awe, the forest green fabric flowing gently behind her when she walked. Gazing slightly to her side she could see Gajeel focused straight ahead of them, gently she moved her hand from the clutch position in front of her to grasp his rough hand. The simple act was enough to shift his eyes to look at her, a small smile that tugged at the corner of his lips.

Carefully he led her up the steps by the hand, only letting go once she took her place on the  smaller throne next to his. Settling down he could see her tracing the grooves that were scratched into the arm of his throne with her finger. Gently he grasped her hand with his as he pondered over the question he asked himself what was now a long time ago. What was a King without his Queen, the answer was that a King was nothing. A Queen was who he could lean on when he was dealing with his darkest demons, one he could share the softer side of his heart with and brighten his day with the simplest smile. But most importantly someone to love and protect to the end of his days.

The End

Hopefully you have enjoyed reading my first multi chapter fic. It has its flaws and imperfections but I hope the story still came through.

Thank you

Fun fact, the missing necklace idea was from my own wedding, in all my excitement in getting ready I forgot to put on my great grandmother's pearl necklace I was supposed to wear. I didn’t even notice till after the ceremony was done lol.

Yes I am aware that a ceremony has much more to it but I simplified it for the purpose of the story.

[writingissues]

Prompt: Traditions Pairing: Gajevy Fandom: Fairy Tail Notes: This was written for @spikerr​ for her birthday! 

Gajeel was never one for traditions or really he just never gave the fuck about some old rules or even useless wise tales in his opinion. He lived his life enough to realize that its bullshit especially now because he wanted to see her and damn him if he was gonna let some silly tradition, its bad luck if the groom sees the bride before the wedding, and he didn't give a shit what he had to do to fill this goal.

Of course even as he thought this he hid in the small closet close to Levy's room that was luckily there, to wait out Erza and Lucy and the other women of the guild to leave her alone so he could get in there because if anyone would refuse this it would be Erza who seemed to just love the tradition processes of weddings. At least what he heard from a usually exhausted Levy from wedding planning with them. Finally after what seemed like hours they seemingly left to leave her alone to gather herself before the wedding, at least what he could hear from their whispers.

Perfect.

Slowly he moved forward and reached the door in a few steps and for a moment he stood there staring down the huge oak wooden door his heart quickening slightly about what he would be seeing in mere minutes. Finally the dragon slayer knocked on the door with a loud, very much louder than intended, as it echoed in the hall causing a slight fear to creep into him that Erza would end up hearing it and would rush back ruining everything, and he didn't exactly want his ass handed to him on his wedding day.

The only sound in return he heard was her soft voice asking who was there as he heard her move around before saying come in. He assumed she thought he was one of the women coming to check on her. With caution he opened the door and walked it closing it as quietly as he could behind him and then turning finally as his heart pounded into his ears to see her standing in front of a huge mirror moving her dress back and forth like a bell as she hummed.

Gajeel was sure his heart had stopped.

It was then their eyes met, blinking rapidly Levy gasped as she tried to cover herself moving and hiding behind one of the small couches that were in there. "What are you doing here, Gajeel?!" she yelled her face becoming redder, "You know you can't see me until the ceremony starts!" It was then she threw something at him, a small pillow, as she made her way into the bathroom as Gajeel threw the pillow away and walked towards the door grabbing the knob trying to open it.

"Ya know I don't believe in any of this shit." he scoffed as he gripped the door handle and try to turn it to open only to be reinforced by the lock, "Oi come out whatdaya think I'm gonna jump ya?" he smirked at the thought and the dragon slayer would be lying that the thought hadn't crossed his mind but he had something else in mind first. First he laughed slightly imagining the look she would be giving him as she spoke again.

"You dummy." she stopped, "I'm not coming out and you should go Erza and the others will be back soon and I rather things stay peaceful today." she huffed slightly and crossed her arms around her chest as she sat on the floor her dress puffed out around her and her veil pooling around her as well. The script mage wasn't exactly sure she was using this position as her legs were tired and she felt the need to throw up in which her hands moved down to touch her stomach. Oddly she felt more calm now than before and she knew it was because Gajeel had come, like the idiot he is, but Levy didn't mind it was the first time since she woke up she didn't feel like she was jumping out of her skin in excitement and nervousness.

"It'll be fine." his voice lowered as he hunched down eyeing the crack between the door and the wall but all he say was white, with some blue. "I just wanted to know how ya were holding up." his voice softened then as his hand touched the door, "We can still elope if ya want."

Levy laughed as she shook her head, "You know that’s impossible now." she touched her face slightly as she took a deep breath and then exhaled, "and I'm fine nothing more than the usual sickness, I'll make it through." she tried to smile but she could picture his frowning face too clearly, how intense his red eyes would be as he would eye her up and down before declaring her a liar. Levy laughed, "I'm serious Gajeel." her hand reached up and touched the door. "I promise."

"Tch," he scoffed as he looked to the side, the script mage pushed herself way too much eh couldn't help but be worried. He still didn't understand why she insisted on a wedding now and not until the pregnancy was over and the kid was here, but it’s what Levy wanted and if there was one thing about Gajeel his heart was soft only for her and only that small woman could control the iron dragon slayer with just a look. "Well just say the word and I'll take ya outta here." he smiled at the door, "now let me see you." he heard a sigh and movement of her dress.

"Only for a minuet than you go back okay?" her voice soft as she slowly opened the door, her deep brown eyes wavering slightly as they connected with Gajeel's red ones. The dragon slayer sucked in his breath as she opened the door all the way and stood there with a smile on her face. "So what do you think?"

Gajeel didn't know shit about dresses but he could feel his heart skip a beat as he took in the view of her. It was a simple dress, strapless and the dress part or whatever it was poofed out slightly but didn't overwhelm her. Her bright blue hair was pulled up high with a headband of roses and the veil seemed long. No matter how she looked she would be stunning to him, but as of now it was sure that Levy took his breath away.

"Yeah Gajeel." a deep feminine voice called out, "how does she look?" slowly he turned around to see Erza standing in the door way with Lucy and Juvia and Wendy as well peaking around her glaring daggers at him. Before the man could speak he could feel himself suddenly thrown out of the room into the hall way almost hitting the wall. "And stay out! You will see her soon!" and as the door slammed he could hear Levy herself being scolded by the fairy queen.

He felt himself smile as he dusted himself off and made his way back to where the guys were and it was worth it.

Totally worth it.